bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on the Technology Innovation Efficiency of China’s Listed New Energy Vehicle Enterprises
Authors: Chen Songbo , Feng Yuqiang , Lin Chaoran , Liao Zhipeng , Mei Xiaoyao
Published: January 2021

As a new industry, the healthy development of new energy vehicle industry is of great significance for effectively solving environmental problems and energy crises. The purpose of this study was to analyze the technological innovation process of China’s new energy vehicle enterprises and construct the evaluation index system of technology innovation efficiency of China’s new energy vehicle enterprises and SBM model-based network DEA model from the two aspects of technology research and development stage and achievement transformation stage. The overall technological innovation efficiency and staged efficiency of 16 listed new energy vehicle enterprises in China were measured and combined with the Malmquist Index Model. The technical change and efficiency change of 16 listed new energy vehicle enterprises in China, spanning from 2012 to 2018, were analyzed. The results show that the average overall efficiency of technological innovation of 16 new energy automobile companies is 0.5515, and the standard deviation is 0.2341. It reflects the low overall efficiency of technological innovation of Chinese new energy vehicle enterprises and the uneven development and the huge gap between different enterprises. From 2012 to 2018, the M index is less than 1, and the technical level change (TC) has a greater negative impact on the M index.
Interval Number-Based Safety Reasoning Method for Verification of Decentralized Power Systems in High-Speed Trains
Authors: Wu Peng , Xiong Ning , Liu Jiqiang , Huang Liujia , Ju Zhuoya , Ji Yannan , Wu Jinzhao
Published: January 2021

Decentralized power systems are commonly used in high-speed trains. However, many parameters in decentralized power systems are uncertain and inevitably have errors. We present a reasoning method based on the interval numbers for decentralized power systems in high-speed trains. Uncertain parameters and their unavoidable errors are quantitatively described by interval numbers. We also define generalized linear equations with interval numbers (LAIs), which can be used to describe the movement of the train. Furthermore, it is proven that the zero sets of LAIs are convex. Therefore, the inside of the fault-tolerance area can be formed by their vertexes and edges and represented by linear inequalities. Consequently, we can judge whether the system is working properly by verifying that the current system state is in the fault-tolerance area. Finally, a fault-tolerance area is obtained, which can be determined by linear equations with an interval number, and we test the correctness of the fault-tolerance area through large-scale random test cases.
Hydrodynamic Analysis for the Morphing Median Fins of Tuna during Yaw Motions
Authors: Li Xiaohu
Published: January 2021

Tuna can change the area and shape of the median fins, including the first dorsal, second dorsal, and anal fins. The morphing median fins have the ability of adjusting the hydrodynamic forces, thereby affecting the yaw mobility of tuna to a certain extent. In this paper, the hydrodynamic analysis of the median fins under different morphing states is carried out by the numerical method, so as to clarify the influence of the erected median fins on the yaw maneuvers. By comparing the two morphing states of erected and depressed, it can be concluded that the erected median fins can increase their own hydrodynamic forces during the yaw movement. However, the second dorsal and anal fins have limited influence on the yaw maneuverability, and they tend to maintain the stability of tuna. The first dorsal fin has more lift increment in the erection state, which can obviously affect the hydrodynamic performance of tuna. Moreover, as the median fins are erected, the hydrodynamic forces of the tuna’s body increase synchronously due to the interaction between the body and the median fins, which is also very beneficial to the yaw motion. This study indicates that tuna can use the morphing median fins to adjust its mobility and stability, which provides a new idea for the design of robotic fish.
Research on Array Structures of Acoustic Directional Transducer
Authors: Zhao Guozhu , Shi Kaibo , Zhong Shouming
Published: January 2021

This paper focuses on the directivity design of array structures of acoustic directional transducers. Based on Huygens principles, the directivity formula of transducer arrays under random distribution in xyz space is derived when the circular piston transducers are used as the array element, which is used to analyze the directivity and acoustic pressure of conical transducer arrangements. In addition, a practical approach to analyze the directivity and acoustic pressure of transducer arrays under random arrangements is proposed. Findings. The conical transducer arrays show side lobes at higher frequency. Below the frequency of 2 kHz, array directivity shows rapid changes. Above the frequency of 2 kHz, array directivity varies slowly with frequency. Besides, the beam width is

Θ

−
3
 
dB

≤

29.85

°

.
Experimental and Numerical Studies on Crack Initiation and Coalescence in Sandy Mudstone with Prefabricated Cross‐Flaws Under Uniaxial Compression
Authors: Liang Dongxu , Zhang Nong , Rong Haoyu , Xiang Zhe
Published: January 2021

The purpose of this paper is to study the crack initiation, propagation, and coalescence of the sandy mudstone sample with two sets of prefabricated cross‐flaws under uniaxial compression. This study is different from previous studies on single or multiple parallel prefabricated flaws. The prefabricated cross‐flaws are characterized by the dip of the rock bridge with the direction of the main flaw (β) and the angle between the direction of main and minor flaws (γ). The effects of these two parameters on crack initiation, propagation, coalescence, crack initiation stress, and coalescence stress are analyzed. Moreover, numerical simulation of the uniaxial compression experiments is performed using PFC2D with a flat‐joint model, and the simulation results are in good agreement with those from the experiments. The results demonstrate that the dip angle of the rock bridge with the direction of the main flaw (β) has strong effects on the crack initiation and coalescence stresses. The larger the angle between the direction of main and minor flaws (γ), the greater the crack initiation and coalescence stresses. The crack initiation stress is reduced for the case with cross‐flaws compared with that with non‐cross‐flaws. Meanwhile, the connection type of main flaws and the width of the crack coalescence zone are difficult to observe through the experiments and are discovered from the numerical simulation.
Study on the Instability Mechanism and Control Measures of a Roadway in a Mine with Retained Coal Pillars and Close Coal Seams
Authors: Liu Huai-Qian , Wang Lei , Han Lian-Chang , Liu Ping , Zou Peng
Published: January 2021

The deformation and instability of roadway surrounding rock reflect the processes of energy accumulation and release. To reveal the instability of roadway surrounding rock, based on the engineering geological conditions of a certain mine, this paper established a nonuniform superimposed stress model of a coal pillar, starting from the energy accumulation and release of the surrounding rock of the floor roadway after coal pillar failure. The essence of the deformation of the lower roadway was revealed, and the following conclusions were drawn: (1) The elastic strain energy accumulated in the lower roadway roof and upper coal pillar is related to not only the physical properties of the coal seam but also the distance between the coal pillar and surrounding rock, the caving height and shape, the burial depth, and the retained pillar width. (2) The elastic strain energy accumulated in the lower roadway roof and the upper coal pillar induced large displacements of the roadway due to the energy release during excavation. (3) It is proposed that the “stress relief degree” and failure morphology are used to identify zones in the rock and coal, and the two zoning modes have a high consistency. (4) The stress distribution in a narrow coal pillar should be calculated in segments. (5) Based on the zoning and energy release characteristics, the following control factors are suggested regarding the coal pillar width and roadway layout: (a) for the coal pillar, avoid the overlap or intersection of the peak values in the limit equilibrium zone and ensure a sufficient elastic zone; (b) arrange the roadway in shear slip Zone B‐2 or the moderate pressure relief Zone B‐2 to reduce the accumulation of elastic strain energy in the surrounding rock.
Using Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm to Calibrate the Term Structure Model
Authors: Zhou Yanli , Liu Shican , Tian Tianhai , He Qi , Ge Xiangyu
Published: January 2021

One of the advantages of stochastic differential equations (SDE) is that they can follow a variety of different trends so that they can establish complex dynamic systems in the economic and financial fields. Although some estimation methods have been proposed to identify the unknown parameters in virtue of the results in the SDE model to speed up the process, these solutions only focus on using explicit approach to solve SDEs, and therefore they are not reliable to deal with data source merged being large and varied. Thus, this study makes progress in creating a new implicit way to fill in the gaps of accurately calibrating the unknown parameters in the SDE model. Essentially, the primary goal of the article is to generate rigid SDE simulation. Meanwhile, the particle swarm optimization method serves a purpose to search and simultaneously obtain the optimal estimation of the model unknown parameters in the complicated experiment of parameter space in an effective way. Finally, in an interest rate term structure model, it is verified that the method effectively deals with parameter estimation in the SDE model.
Developmental and Early Life Origins of Cardiometabolic Risk Factors
Authors: Lurbe Empar , Ingelfinger Julie
Published: January 2021

The intent of this review is to critically consider the data that support the concept of programming and its implications. Birth weight and growth trajectories during childhood are associated with cardiometabolic disease in adult life. Both extremes, low and high birth weight coupled with postnatal growth increase the early presence of cardiometabolic risk factors and vascular imprinting, crucial elements of this framework. Data coming from epigenetics, proteomics, metabolomics, and microbiota added relevant information and contribute to better understanding of mechanisms as well as development of biomarkers helping to move forward to take actions. Research has reached a stage in which sufficiently robust data calls for new initiatives focused on early life. Prevention starting early in life is likely to have a very large impact on reducing disease incidence and its associated effects at the personal, economic, and social levels.
Aortic Pulse Wave Velocity Predicts Cardiovascular Events and Mortality in Patients Undergoing Coronary Angiography
Authors: Hametner Bernhard , Wassertheurer Siegfried , Mayer Christopher Clemens , Danninger Kathrin , Binder Ronald K. , Weber Thomas
Published: January 2021

Aortic pulse wave velocity (PWV) is directly related to arterial stiffness. Different methods for the determination of PWV coexist. The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the prognostic value of PWV in high-risk patients with suspected coronary artery disease undergoing invasive angiography and to compare 3 different methods for assessing PWV. In 1040 patients, invasive PWV (iPWV) was measured during catheter pullback. Additionally, PWV was estimated with a model incorporating age, central systolic blood pressure, and pulse waveform characteristics obtained from noninvasive measurements (estimated PWV). As a third method, PWV was calculated with a formula solely based on age and blood pressure (formula-based PWV). Survival analysis was based on continuous PWV as well as using cutoff values. After a median follow-up duration of 1565 days, 24% of the patients reached the combined end point (cardiovascular events or mortality). Cox proportional hazard ratios per 1 SD were 1.35 for iPWV, 1.37 for estimated PWV, and 1.28 for formula-based PWV (
P
<0.0001 for all 3 methods) in univariate analysis, remaining statistically significant after comprehensive multivariable adjustments. In a model including a modified risk score for coronary artery disease, iPWV and estimated PWV remained borderline significant. The net reclassification improvement was significant for iPWV (0.173), formula-based PWV (0.181), and estimated PWV (0.230). All 3 methods for the determination of PWV predicted cardiovascular events and mortality in patients with suspected coronary artery disease. This indicates that iPWV as well as both noninvasive estimation methods are suitable for the assessment of arterial stiffness, bearing in mind their individual characteristics.
Speaking Italian with a Swiss-German Accent: Walter Ballmer and Swiss Graphic Design in Milan
Authors: Barbieri Chiara , Fornari Davide
Published: January 2021

The article employs Walter Ballmer's experience as a Swiss graphic designer working in Milan in the second half of the twentieth century as a case study to think about national design discourses outside national borders, show their constructed nature, and explore their impact on individual lives and careers. Drawing on primary sources collected in the archive and through interviews, it maps out the socio-cultural network that gave meaning to Swiss graphic design and questions how this was perceived, understood, and performed in a specific time and place by Ballmer, his assistants, the broader graphic design community, and his clients.
Swiss Graphic Design: A British Invention?
Authors: Lzicar Robert
Published: January 2021

The role of British graphic designers and authors in spreading Swiss Style, “Swiss graphic design,” or “Swiss typography” internationally is evident, but less is known about the process and effects of transnational exchange in design. This article follows the trajectories of objects and texts, revealing how they have established and disseminated the labels in Britain and abroad, thus contributing to our current understanding of “Swiss graphic design.” It concludes with an example of alternative historiography of modern visual communication as a constant process of exchange that reveals the complex international interaction of design discourses.
In the Wake of Universal Design: Mapping the Terrain
Authors: Guffey Elizabeth
Published: January 2021

This review essay is intended as a state of the field, outlining an emerging design for disability that is inflected by thinking from Critical Disability Studies. The article notes how this thinking draws from the tradition of Universal Design and presents five keywords that characterize the newer approach.
Exploration of Principal Component Analysis: Deriving Principal Component Analysis Visually Using Spectra
Authors: Beattie J. Renwick , Esmonde-White Francis W. L.
Published: January 2021

Spectroscopy rapidly captures a large amount of data that is not directly interpretable. Principal component analysis is widely used to simplify complex spectral datasets into comprehensible information by identifying recurring patterns in the data with minimal loss of information. The linear algebra underpinning principal component analysis is not well understood by many applied analytical scientists and spectroscopists who use principal component analysis. The meaning of features identified through principal component analysis is often unclear. This manuscript traces the journey of the spectra themselves through the operations behind principal component analysis, with each step illustrated by simulated spectra. Principal component analysis relies solely on the information within the spectra, consequently the mathematical model is dependent on the nature of the data itself. The direct links between model and spectra allow concrete spectroscopic explanation of principal component analysis , such as the scores representing “concentration” or “weights". The principal components (loadings) are by definition hidden, repeated and uncorrelated spectral shapes that linearly combine to generate the observed spectra. They can be visualized as subtraction spectra between extreme differences within the dataset. Each PC is shown to be a successive refinement of the estimated spectra, improving the fit between PC reconstructed data and the original data. Understanding the data-led development of a principal component analysis model shows how to interpret application specific chemical meaning of the principal component analysis loadings and how to analyze scores. A critical benefit of principal component analysis is its simplicity and the succinctness of its description of a dataset, making it powerful and flexible.
How religion shapes immigrants’ integration: The case of Christian migrant churches in Italy
Authors: Ambrosini Maurizio , Bonizzoni Paola , Molli Samuele Davide
Published: January 2021

This article investigates the relationship between integration processes and religious participation through an analysis of migrant churches established in the city of Milan. While in Europe most public opinion and literature are focused on Islam, and religion is often viewed as an impediment and barrier to integration, this work wants instead to discuss the ways in which religion serves migrants’ needs in the receiving society, acting as a social bridge. Combining qualitative data collected in six Christian migrant churches, three Catholic and three Protestant, the article explains how religious communities have become significant urban hubs for immigrants, providing opportunities to socialize, developing welfare services, supplying places for family activities, as well as moral guidance in a diverse society. By detailing the practical and social functions of churches, this article shows how religion represents an alternative and mediating force, able to support migrants’ integration – a role which is still understudied in Europe.
What Gets Measured in Reentry Research? A Scoping Review on Community Reentry From Jail and Prison for Persons With Mental Illnesses
Authors: Barrenger Stacey L. , Kriegel Liat , Canada Kelli E. , Blank Wilson Amy
Published: January 2021

Research on reentry for individuals with mental illnesses leaving jails and prisons lacks outcome specificity and standardization needed to advance knowledge about the efficacy and effectiveness of interventions. This scoping review aims to provide clarity about reentry outcomes by: (a) ascertaining what outcomes are a focus in reentry research, (b) explicating how outcomes are defined, and (c) identifying commonalities or gaps in outcomes reported. A search of multiple databases yielded 415 articles for potential inclusion. After independent document review by two of the authors, 61 articles were included in the review. Recidivism was the most used construct, accounting for 58% of total outcomes and 95% of criminal legal outcomes. Behavioral health indicators were reported the second most frequently and other outcomes were rarely reported. Increasing the specificity of commonly used concepts while also expanding the breadth of outcomes considered is needed to build an evidence base this area of research.
The Resource-Based View of the Firm, Human Resources, and Human Capital: Progress and Prospects
Authors: Gerhart Barry , Feng Jie
Published: January 2021

We describe the interplay between the resource-based view (RBV) and strategic human resources (HR)/human capital (HC) literatures in select areas of particular interest. In each area, we aim to highlight key issues, review relevant evidence where available, and identify future research needs. We begin by reviewing research on HR-related firm heterogeneity. We then discuss best practices in HR, including evidence of the large apparent value they create. We also consider different views on the value and ease of imitation of best practices, including implementation challenges. Next, we briefly address the key roles of microfoundations and complementarity in helping understand the potential for value creation and value capture through the use of best practices. We then ask whether the use of best practices in the pursuit of competitive parity might warrant greater attention as this may be where the largest potential gains can be made. Finally, we consider a number of developments in the strategic HC literature, especially those related to firm-specific human capital (FSHC). We raise questions with views on issues such as the consequences of FSHC for workers; the definition and measurement of FSHC; whether worker immobility, a key to value capture, is good from a social return (or even a firm) return perspective; and the relative emphasis on value capture and value creation.
Experimental Study on Mix Ratio Design and Road Performance of Medium and Small Deformation Seamless Expansion Joints of Bridges
Authors: Lu Pengzhen , Zhou Chenhao , Huang Simin , Shen Yang , Pan Yilong
Published: January 2021

Expansion joints are a weak and fragile part of bridge superstructure. The damage or failure of the expansion joint will lead to the decline of bridge durability and endanger the bridge structure and traffic safety. To improve the service life and performance of bridge expansion joints, the ideal method is to use seamless expansion joints. In this study, starting from the commonly used asphalt mixture gradation of seamless expansion joint, and taking into account the actual situation of bridge expansion joint structure and environment in China, the gradation and asphalt-aggregate ratio are preliminarily designed. Through a Marshall test, the corresponding asphalt mixture is evaluated and analyzed according to the stability, flow value, and void ratio, and the optimal gradation and asphalt-aggregate ratio are determined. Finally, the asphalt mixture is prepared with the mixture ratio design, and the test results of an immersion Marshall test, fatigue performance test, and full-scale test verify that the asphalt mixture meets the road performance requirements of seamless expansion joints. On the basis of the experimental data, the performance of large sample asphalt mixture is continuously tested, compared, and optimized. The results show that the asphalt mixture ratio designed is true and reliable, which can provide reference for the optimal design of seamless expansion joint filler.
Georgian Liverpool’s northern whaling trade reconsidered: Ranking, significance and geography
Authors: Hill Simon
Published: January 2021

This article re-appraises Liverpool’s involvement in the northern whaling trade c.1750-1823. It shows that the town ranked second amongst England’s whaling ports at different times during the 1750s, 1760s, 1770s, and again in 1794. This is much earlier and frequent than previously thought, and therefore has implications for our understanding of the geography of the nation’s whaling industry. Gordon Jackson famously asserted that all the major whaling ports were on the east coast. Whilst this article does not contest the broad thrust of Jackson’s thesis, it does suggest a slight modification. The ability of west coast Liverpool to achieve ‘second’ rank, even if this was for only brief periods, shows that the dominance of the east coast in whaling, though clearly strong, was not absolute.
Succinic Semialdehyde Dehydrogenase Deficiency: Review of the Natural History Study
Authors: Pearl Phillip L. , DiBacco Melissa L. , Papadelis Christos , Opladen Thomas , Hanson Ellen , Roullet Jean-Baptiste , Gibson K. Michael
Published: January 2021

Objective:

The SSADHD Natural History Study was initiated in 2019 to define the natural course and identify biomarkers correlating with severity.

Methods:

The study is conducted by 4 institutions: BCH (US clinical), WSU (bioanalytical core), USF (biostatistical core), and Heidelberg (iNTD), with support from the family advocacy group (SSADH Association). Recruitment goals were to study 20 patients on-site at BCH, 10 with iNTD, and 25 as a standard-of care cohort.

Results:

At this half-way point of this longitudinal study, 28 subjects have been recruited (57% female, mean 9 years, range 18 months–40 years). Epilepsy is present in half and increases in incidence and severity, as do psychiatric symptoms, in adolescence and adulthood. The average Full Scale IQ (FSIQ) was 53 (Verbal score of 56, Non Verbal score of 49), and half scored as having ASD. Although there was no correlation between gene variant and phenotypic severity, there were extreme cases of lowest functioning in one individual and highest in another that may have genotype-phenotype correlation. The most common EEG finding was mild background slowing with rare epileptiform activity, whereas high-density EEG and magnetoencephalography showed reduction in the gamma frequency band consistent with GABAergic dysfunction. MR spectroscopy showed elevations in the GABA/NAA ratio in all regions studied with no crossover between subjects and controls.

Conclusions:

The SSADH Natural History Study is providing a unique opportunity to study the complex pathophysiology longitudinally and derive electrophysiologic, neuroimaging, and laboratory data for correlation and to serve as biomarkers for clinical trials and prognostic assessments in this ultra-rare inherited disorder of GABA metabolism.
Small-scale resistance seam welding of 304 stainless steel with capacitor discharge welding machine
Authors: Gholami Omid , Shakeri Mohsen , Imen Seyed Javad , Jamshidi Aval Hamed
Published: January 2021

In this paper, small scale resistance seam welding (SSRSEW) of 304 stainless steel sheet with a thickness of 0.1 mm with a capacitor discharge (CD) welding machine is investigated. The effect of the main parameters such as discharged energy, electrode force, and electrode speed on the quality of the weld seam was investigated. In order to control the speed of the electrode, the electrode wheel was mounted on a CNC machine. Mechanical tests such as tensile-shear and peel tests were used to evaluate the quality of the weld seam. Also, the failure modes were investigated in different welding conditions. The results show that the discharged energy has more effect on the weld seam strength and the maximum strength in the peel test is usually lower than the strength of the tensile-shear test. Also, discharge energy level of 14 ws and electrode force of 20 N and electrode speeds of 200 and 300 mm/min are the optimum welding condition for welding the 304 stainless steel sheets with a thickness of 0.1 mm.
Preceding vehicle following algorithm with human driving characteristics
Authors: Pan Feng , Bao Hong
Published: January 2021

This paper proposes a new approach of using reinforcement learning (RL) to train an agent to perform the task of vehicle following with human driving characteristics. We refer to the ideal of inverse reinforcement learning to design the reward function of the RL model. The factors that need to be weighed in vehicle following were vectorized into reward vectors, and the reward function was defined as the inner product of the reward vector and weights. Driving data of human drivers was collected and analyzed to obtain the true reward function. The RL model was trained with the deterministic policy gradient algorithm because the state and action spaces are continuous. We adjusted the weight vector of the reward function so that the value vector of the RL model could continuously approach that of a human driver. After dozens of rounds of training, we selected the policy with the nearest value vector to that of a human driver and tested it in the PanoSim simulation environment. The results showed the desired performance for the task of an agent following the preceding vehicle safely and smoothly.
Research on pull-type multi-AGV system dynamic path optimization based on time window
Authors: Shan Hongying , Wang Chuang , Zou Cungang , Qin Mengyao
Published: January 2021

This paper is a study of the dynamic path planning problem of the pull-type multiple Automated Guided Vehicle (multi-AGV) complex system. First, based on research status at home and abroad, the conflict types, common planning algorithms, and task scheduling methods of different AGV complex systems are compared and analyzed. After comparing the different algorithms, the Dijkstra algorithm was selected as the path planning algorithm. Secondly, a mathematical model is set up for the shortest path of the total driving path, and a general algorithm for multi-AGV collision-free path planning based on a time window is proposed. After a thorough study of the shortcomings of traditional single-car planning and conflict resolution algorithms, a time window improvement algorithm for the planning path and the solution of the path conflict covariance is established. Experiments on VC++ software showed that the improved algorithm reduces the time of path planning and improves the punctual delivery rate of tasks. Finally, the algorithm is applied to material distribution in the OSIS workshop of a C enterprise company. It can be determined that the method is feasible in the actual production and has a certain application value by the improvement of the data before and after the comparison.
Formation mechanism of static pressure circumferential double-peak distribution in a centrifugal compressor under the action of downstream boundary
Authors: Su Botai , Yang Ce , Zhang Hanzhi , Shi Xin , Fu Li , Zhang Hang
Published: January 2021

In the centrifugal compressor applied in the automobile turbochargers, the asymmetric structure of volute causes the non-uniform flow field in the impeller and compressor stall. The non-uniformity of the flow field in the compressor can be reflected by the casing-wall static pressure distribution. In this study, by removing the volute and directly imposing different simplified static pressure boundary conditions at the diffuser outlet, the formation mechanism of casing-wall static pressure circumferential double-peak distribution of the compressor is explored. It is found that the mass flow rate is redistributed at the impeller outlet due to local high static pressure induced by the volute tongue, which results in the formation of two airflow regions with high velocity in the diffuser, ultimately leading to the static pressure circumferential double-peak distribution in the diffuser and the impeller. Noted that because of the existence of the blades, the airflow regions with high and low velocity formed in the diffuser are locked within a limited range of one or more widths of the blade passage. When the number of blades in the compressor is large, the static pressure can appear as multi-peak distribution in the circumferential direction. Moreover, the result of the mass flow rate redistribution at the impeller outlet is determined by the static pressure distribution characteristics at the diffuser outlet.
Tuning EU equality law to algorithmic discrimination: Three pathways to resilience
Authors: Xenidis Raphaële
Published: January 2021

Algorithmic discrimination poses an increased risk to the legal principle of equality. Scholarly accounts of this challenge are emerging in the context of EU equality law, but the question of the resilience of the legal framework has not yet been addressed in depth. Exploring three central incompatibilities between the conceptual map of EU equality law and algorithmic discrimination, this article investigates how purposively revisiting selected conceptual and doctrinal tenets of EU non-discrimination law offers pathways towards enhancing its effectiveness and resilience. First, I argue that predictive analytics are likely to give rise to intersectional forms of discrimination, which challenge the unidimensional understanding of discrimination prevalent in EU law. Second, I show how proxy discrimination in the context of machine learning questions the grammar of EU non-discrimination law. Finally, I address the risk that new patterns of systemic discrimination emerge in the algorithmic society. Throughout the article, I show that looking at the margins of the conceptual and doctrinal map of EU equality law offers several pathways to tackling algorithmic discrimination. This exercise is particularly important with a view to securing a technology-neutral legal framework robust enough to provide an effective remedy to algorithmic threats to fundamental rights.
The language of integrative collective bargaining
Authors: Joullié Jean-Etienne , Spillane Robert
Published: January 2021

Although collective bargaining is essentially a communication process, the role of language (as distinguished from discourse) in bargaining exchanges has received little attention from industrial relations scholars. Building on the work of Karl Popper, this article proposes a decomposition of language into functions and values and analyses their relevance when parties to a collective bargaining encounter engage in an integrative process. The proposed framework provides labour negotiators seeking integrative outcomes with linguistic guidelines and scholars with a tool to analyse bargaining exchanges.
Exploring Officer Arrest Discretion Following State Policy Changes in Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Mason Philip B. , Petrie Michelle A.
Published: January 2021

In 2015, South Carolina passed the Domestic Violence Reform Act giving officers increased arrest discretion and rescinding mandatory arrest laws for intimate partner violence (IPV). Analyses using incident reports (2016/2017) from South Carolina show that officers primarily rely on the presence of five variables to determine arrest: children, injury, property destruction, offender at scene, and weapons. Cases with Black female victims are more likely to result in arrest, suggesting that Black males are being criminalized. We conclude that officers are reluctant to use individual discretion and rely on a form of structured discretion provided by administrators that shapes local culture and decision-making.
Associations of Power Relations, Wife-Beating Attitudes, and Controlling Behavior of Husband With Domestic Violence Against Women in India: Insights From the National Family Health Survey–4
Authors: Mondal Dinabandhu , Paul Pintu
Published: January 2021

This study assesses the relationship of power relations, attitudes toward wife-beating, and controlling behavior of husband with violence against women in India using the recent National Family Health Survey (NFHS-4). In India, about 31% of ever-married women experienced domestic violence committed by their partner during 2015-16. Women’s decision-making power was associated with a decreased likelihood of spousal violence. However, the justification of wife-beating and controlling behavior of husband increased the risk of intimate partner violence. This study emphasizes the need for prioritizing girls’ education, enhancing women’s autonomy, prevention of child marriage, and promoting gender equality in society to address the problem of spousal violence.
Does Participation in Food Benefit Programs Reduce the Risk for Depressive Symptoms?
Authors: Adynski Harry , Schwartz Todd A. , Santos Hudson P
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND:

Food insecurity affects 15 million households in the United States and is associated with negative physical and mental health outcomes including Major Depressive Disorder. Governmental public assistance or food benefit programs including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) are social intervention services that attempt to minimize food insecurity for low-income households. There is little consensus regarding the effects of food benefit participation on reducing risk of depressive symptoms.

AIM:

This study aims to explore the association between household food insecurity and food benefit participation (SNAP or WIC) on risk for depressive symptoms using nationally representative samples from the Center for Disease and Control and Prevention Nutritional Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2013-2014 and 2015-2016 cohorts. We hypothesize that food insecurity is associated with increased risk of depressive symptoms and food benefit participation with reduced risk.

METHOD:

Cross-sectional analyses were conducted using survey-weighted logistic regression to explore the relationship between food insecurity, food benefit participation, and the risk of depressive symptoms controlling for relevant income and sociodemographic variables.

RESULTS:

When controlling for sociodemographic variables, food benefit participation did not reduce the risk of depressive symptoms, while high levels of food insecurity were associated with elevated risk.

CONCLUSIONS:

High levels of food insecurity are associated with elevated risk of depressive symptoms. Nurses and public health professionals can address food security needs through increased knowledge of referral and eligibility requirements. Implications on clinical practice, policy, and future directions for research are discussed.
A non-classical model for first-ordershear deformation circular cylindrical thin shells incorporating microstructure and surface energy effects
Authors: Zhang GY , Gao X-L
Published: January 2021

A new non-classical model for first-order shear deformation circular cylindrical thin shells is developed by using a modiﬁed couple stress theory and a surface elasticity theory. Through a variational formulation based on Hamilton’s principle, the equations of motion and boundary conditions are simultaneously obtained, and the microstructure and surface energy effects are treated in a unified manner. The newly developed non-classical shell model contains one material length-scale parameter to account for the microstructure effect and three surface elastic constants to capture the surface energy effect. The new model includes shell models considering the microstructure effect only or the surface energy effect alone as special cases and recovers the first-order shear deformation circular cylindrical thin shell model based on classical elasticity as a limiting case. In addition, the current shell model reduces to the non-classical model for Mindlin plates incorporating the microstructure and surface energy effects when the thin shell radius tends to infinity. To illustrate the new model, the static bending and free vibration problems of a simply supported circular cylindrical thin shell are analytically solved. The numerical results reveal that the inclusion of the microstructure and surface energy effects leads to reduced shell deflections and rotation angles and increased natural frequencies. The differences are significant when the shell is very thin, but they diminish as the shell thickness increases. These predicted size effects at the micron scale agree with the general trends observed in experiments.
Retrospective Study of Patients With SJS/TEN Treated at a Tertiary Burn Unit in Canada: Overview of 17 Years of Treatment
Authors: Olteanu Cristina , Shear Neil H. , Burnett Marjorie , Hashimoto Rena , Jeschke Marc G. , Ziv Michael , Dodiuk-Gad Roni P.
Published: January 2021

Background

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are adverse drug reactions.

Objectives

To learn about the clinical characteristics of patients with SJS/TEN including treatments provided, outcomes, and mortality.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective chart review of patients who were hospitalized with the diagnosis of SJS/TEN at the Ross Tilley Burn Center between the years 1999 and 2015.

Results

A total of 43 patients were identified with a mean age of 54 ± 19 (58, 18-85). The most common offending medications were allopurinol and carbamazepine. The overall mortality rate in our study is 21% with the most common causes of death being multiorgan failure and sepsis. The majority of our patients had oral (84%), ocular (79%), and genital (60%) involvement during hospitalization. Our data revealed that combination treatment involving oral corticosteroids with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) had the highest mortality rate in our study since 55% (6/11) of patients who were treated in this manner passed away compared to 11% (2/18) of patients passing away who were treated with solely IVIG and 33% (1/3) who were treated with only supportive care. Our study also demonstrates the addition of etanercept and cyclosporine treatment in the second time period we studied: 2008-2015 versus the earlier time period of 1999-2007. None of the patients in our study who were treated with therapies including cyclosporine and/or etanercept passed away.

Conclusions

Our study sheds light on a possible beneficial role of cyclosporine and etanercept for the treatment of SJS and TEN and reinforces the necessity of a multidisciplinary care team for patients.
Evaluation of residual gas fraction estimation methods for cycle-to-cycle combustion variability analysis and modeling
Authors: Maldonado Bryan P , Kaul Brian C
Published: January 2021

Cycle-to-cycle combustion variability in spark-ignition engines during normal operation is mainly caused by random perturbations of the in-cylinder conditions such as the flow velocity field, homogeneity of the air-fuel distribution, spark energy discharge, and turbulence intensity of the flame front. Such perturbations translate into the variability of the energy released observed at the end of the combustion process. During normal operating conditions, the cycle-to-cycle variability (CCV) of the energy release behaves as random uncorrelated noise. However, during diluted combustion, in either the form of exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) or excess air (lean operation), the CCV tends to increase as dilution increases. Moreover, when the ignition limit is reached at high dilution levels, the combustion CCV is exacerbated by sporadic occurrences of incomplete combustion events, and the uncorrelation assumption no longer holds. The low or null energy released by partial burns and misfires has an impact on the following combustion event due to the residual gas that carries burned and unburned gases, which contributes to the deterministic coupling between engine cycles. Many residual gas fraction estimation methods, however, only address the nominal case where complete combustion occurs and combustion events are uncorrelated. This study evaluates the efficacy of such methods on capturing the effects of partial burns and misfires on the residual gas estimate for high-EGR operation. The advantages and disadvantages of each method are discussed based on their ability to generate cycle-to-cycle estimates. Finally, a comparison between the different estimation techniques is presented based on their usefulness for control-oriented modeling.
Tuning in to Kids: Clinical Case Studies from One-to-One Delivery
Authors: Mastromanno Bianca K. , Kehoe Christiane E. , Wood Catherine E. , Havighurst Sophie S.
Published: January 2021

Children’s behavior problems are often underpinned by deficits in emotional competence and require intervention to prevent them from escalating into more serious and persistent difficulties. Parenting factors such as poor Parental Reflective Functioning (PRF) and non-supportive emotion socialization practices are negatively related to children’s emotional competence and are modifiable factors that can be targeted in parenting interventions. Tuning in to Kids (TIK) is an emotion-focused group parenting program that teaches parents skills in understanding and regulating their own emotions, and how to respond supportively to their children’s emotion to foster emotional competence. This paper describes a newly adapted one-to-one version of TIK. Using three case studies, this paper illustrates the program’s implementation, challenges, and outcomes for parents and their children with behavior problems. The structure and content of this adapted format of TIK is outlined, and each parent’s progression through the program including changes to their meta-emotion beliefs, emotion socialization practices, and PRF are discussed. Recommendations are provided to assist facilitators with delivering TIK in the one-to-one setting.
The Influence of Combined Physical Therapy Procedures on Oxygen Partial Pressure in Tissues Surrounding Ulcer in Patients With Venous Leg Ulcers
Authors: Pasek Jarosław , Szajkowski Sebastian , Pietrzak Mikołaj , Cieślar Grzegorz
Published: January 2021

Venous ulcers in lower legs remain a profound treatment problem in contemporary medicine. Proper healing requires, among other things, sufficient blood supply and provision of suitable amount of oxygen to the treated tissues. The aim of the study was to assess the influence of combined physical therapy applied in patients with chronic venous leg ulcers on the oxygen partial pressure values. Fifty-four patients (25 females and 29 males), in the age range of 38 to 89 years with chronic venous leg ulcers, underwent a cycle of 15 procedures with the use of Laserobaria-S device. During a procedure, the patient’s lower limb was simultaneously exposed to oxygen having the pressure of 1.5 ATA, low-frequency magnetic field, and low-energy light radiation. Before procedures, directly after the first procedure, as well as on completion of the entire therapeutic cycle, the patients underwent oxygen partial pressure measurements in the tissues surrounding the ulceration area, by means of transcutaneous oximetry, with the use of Medicap Précise 8008s device. The combined physical therapy shows a statistically significant increase of oxygen partial pressure values in tissues surrounding the ulceration, from the average of 68.63 ± 17.04 mm Hg before commencing the therapeutic cycle, to the average of 74.20 ± 18.92 mm Hg after the first procedure ( P < .001) and to the average value of 83.79 ± 20.74 mm Hg ( P < .001) after completion of therapeutic cycle. Combined physical therapy procedures cause a statistically significant increase of oxygen partial pressure values in tissues surrounding the ulceration, assessed using the objective method of transcutaneous oximetry, both in women and men.
Simplified reliability-based load design factors for explosive blast loading, weapons effects, and its application to collateral damage estimation
Authors: Stewart Mark G
Published: January 2021

The paper describes a simplified approach to quantifying a reliability-based design load factor (RBDF) for the variability of explosive blast loading. The user can select range and explosive mass variability and model errors to derive RBDFs for pressure and impulse. These algorithms may be easily programmed into a spreadsheet, computer code, or other numerical method. There is a need by military planners to increase the predictive accuracy of collateral damage estimation (CDE) to ensure maximum damage to the target while minimizing harm to nearby civilians. This present paper uses the CDE damage criterion adopted by the USA and NATO to assess damage and safety risks and recommend safe collateral damage distances. Hence, the present paper utilizes RBDFs to simulate collateral damage risks to a hypothetical reinforced concrete residential building from a 2000 lb bomb using the 99th percentile of blast loads, engineering models, and Monte Carlo simulation analysis that considers variabilities of load and resistance. It was found that CDE is sensitive to airblast model errors and variability of structural resistance. It is recommended that these considerations be incorporated into CDE methodology since existing CDE methodology may be non-conservative, resulting in higher risks of collateral damage.