bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Taxonomic notes on the Philippine endemic Begonia colorata (Begoniaceae, section Petermannia)
Authors: NAIVE MARK ARCEBAL K. , ALEJANDRO GRECEBIO JONATHAN D. , HUGHES MARK
Published: December 2018

Recent exploration in Mt. Ararat, Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur resulted in a collection initially identified as Begonia bolsteri, a poorly known Philippine endemic species first described over a century ago. Examination of the types of this species and the type of B. colorata led us to the conclusion that these names represent the same taxon, and we place them in synonymy under the earlier name of B. colorata and designate lectotypes for both names. In this paper, we provide a comprehensive description for the species and photographs to facilitate easy identification.
A synopsis of Begonia (Begoniaceae) of Southeastern Sulawesi including four new species
Authors: ARDI WISNU H. , CHIKMAWATI TATIK , WITONO JOKO R. , THOMAS DANIEL C.
Published: December 2018

Material acquired on a recent expedition to Southeastern Sulawesi, Indonesia, presents an opportunity to reassess and provide an overview of the Begonia flora of the region. Eleven species are recognized including four new species described and illustrated here: Begonia incudiformicarpa, B. iskandariana, and B. tumburanoensis (all in Begonia section Jackia); and B. johntania (Begonia section Petermannia). The former three species are the first confirmed records of section Jackia on Sulawesi substantially extending the known eastern range limit of this section. In addition, an illustration and a lectotypification of Begonia flacca are presented, and an identification key to Begonia species in Southeastern Sulawesi is provided.
Two new Brazilian Atlantic Forest Eugenia (Myrtaceae)
Authors: SOBRAL MARCOS , SOUZA MARCELO COSTA
Published: December 2018

There are described and illustrated Eugenia mimetica and E. sudestis. Eugenia mimetica is related to E. praeterita, but has smaller blades and shorter inflorescences. Eugenia sudestis is close to E. persicifolia but has glabrous blades and auxotelic inflorescences. Additionally, topics on distribution, phenology, habitat and conservation status are commented for each species.
Taxonomic guide and historical review of echinoids (Echinodermata: Echinoidea) from northeastern Brazil
Authors: GONDIM ANNE ISABELLEY , DE MOURA RAFAEL BENDAYAN , CHRISTOFFERSEN MARTIN LINDSEY , DIAS THELMA LÚCIA PEREIRA
Published: December 2018

The class Echinoidea contains among the best-known echinoderms. The group has left the most complete fossil record of this phylum, and contains about 1000 living species, of which 51 are recorded along the Brazilian coast. Although the first record of echinoids in Brazil was made 369 years ago, the knowledge of this fauna remains quite unsatisfactory from a taxonomic and ecological point of view, particularly in the north and northeastern regions of the country. This study provides the first annotated list of echinoids from northeastern Brazil. The studied material largely belongs to collections of the Federal University of Paraíba (CIPY), Federal University of Sergipe (LABIMAR-UFS), Federal University of Bahia (MZUFBA), University of São Paulo (MZUSP), and National Museum of the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (MNRJ). Thirty-two species from 29 genera, 18 families, and 10 orders were identified. Descriptions of species are provided. Highest diversities of Echinoidea were encountered for the states of Bahia (19 spp.), Alagoas (11 spp.), Paraíba (10 spp.), Ceará (7 spp.), Rio Grande do Norte (7 spp.), and Pernambuco (6 spp.). On the basis of the data analysed, Maranhão (2 spp.), Piauí (2 spp.), and Sergipe (3 spp.) have the lowest diversity. Sandy substrates and depths below 10 m were the least sampled areas over the continental shelf. Although the studied species are common, some taxonomic problems were encountered and discussed. We also provide ecological information and comments on status of the species from the studied region. As a result of this inventory, we were able to provide the first assessment of the echinoid fauna of northeastern Brazil.
A New Parameterization of the Accretion of Cloud Water by Graupel and Its Evaluation through Cloud and Precipitation Simulations
Authors: Jin Han-Gyul , Lee Hyunho , Baik Jong-Jin
Published: December 2018

A new parameterization of the accretion of cloud water by graupel for use in bulk microphysics schemes is derived by analytically integrating the stochastic collection equation (SCE). In this parameterization, the collection efficiency between graupel particles and cloud droplets is expressed in a functional form using the data obtained from a particle trajectory model by a previous study. The new accretion parameterization is evaluated through box model simulations in comparison with a bin-based direct SCE solver and two previously developed accretion parameterizations that employ the continuous collection equation and a simplified SCE, respectively. Changes in cloud water and graupel mass contents via the accretion process predicted by the new parameterization are closest to those predicted by the direct SCE solver. Furthermore, the new parameterization predicts a decrease in the cloud droplet number concentration that is smaller than the decreases predicted by the other accretion parameterizations, consistent with the direct SCE solver. The new and the other accretion parameterizations are implemented into a cloud-resolving model. Idealized deep convective cloud simulations show that among the accretion parameterizations, the new parameterization predicts the largest rate of accretion by graupel and the smallest rate of accretion by snow, which overall enhances rainfall through the largest rate of melting of graupel. Real-case simulations for a precipitation event over the southern Korean Peninsula show that among the examined accretion parameterizations, the new parameterization simulates precipitation closest to observations. Compared to the other accretion parameterizations, the new parameterization decreases the fractions of light and moderate precipitation amounts and increases the fraction of heavy precipitation amount.
Evaluating the Film If Not for Me: Children and Clinical Studies
Authors: Marceau Lisa D. , Cho Ellen , Coleman Julia , Liao Weiqin , Dennin Sheila
Published: December 2018

Support for research involving children has a complicated history. Pediatricians and families have a unique opportunity to share perspectives about the relevance of pediatric clinical research. A national broadcast film on pediatric clinical research was developed to improve knowledge about and willingness to consider a clinical study. The film was delivered to a public audience employing a pre-post design comparing knowledge about clinical research before and after watching If Not for Me: Children and Clinical Studies. Change was measured by the difference in number of questions answered correctly prior to and after viewing the film. Engagement was measured by survey and a live feedback qualitative component. Adults viewing the program demonstrated a significant ( P < .0001) difference in knowledge about pediatric clinical research across all domains. This format appears to be a viable approach for improving public education and as a support tool for pediatricians and pediatric researchers about this topic.
Tamar among the matriarchs: Godless and perhaps closer to God
Authors: Kruschwitz Jonathan
Published: December 2018

Is Tamar among the matriarchs? At first glance, not at all. She draws a striking contrast to precedent in her identity, her fertility, her breach of bridal convention, and most significantly the antagonism and absence of God in her procreative plight. Yet her story still alludes extensively to the matriarchal experience, suggesting that she is perhaps a matriarch after all, but one on whom matriarchy fits differently. This study accordingly explores how Tamar might stretch and develop matriarchal identity. In particular, it draws special attention to a resonance between her experience and a narrative trend in Genesis of divine absence and human responsibility. Exploring the conceptual possibilities of “godlessness” through the thought of Dietrich Bonhoeffer and other theologians who have traced the contours of God in powerlessness and suffering, this study suggests that, as a godless matriarch, Tamar is perhaps closer to God. Perhaps among the matriarchs she helps to introduce Bonhoeffer’s “God of the Bible, who gains ground and power in the world by being powerless.”
Public reason: A stranger in non-liberal and religious societies?
Authors: Salam Dara
Published: December 2018

The article contributes to the discussion of political reasoning in general, and public reason in particular, analysed from the vantage point of comparative political theory. It aims to bring out the complexity and diversity of actual political reasoning, and it serves as a corrective to some over-simplified discussions of public reason, by defenders and critics alike. I argue that the notion of public reason can be extended to and is operative in non-liberal and religious societies, with the acknowledgment that it needs to undergo a methodological metamorphosis in the process. This requires what I call multiple justificatory strategy, which allows the use of different justifications in order to respond to the plurality existing in society. However, there are certain qualifications in the use of multiple justifications. I argue that this leads to two important conclusions, (a) that the functioning of an inclusive notion of public reason requires the strategy of multiple justifications, and (b) it contests the inclusivists’ argument of the end or superfluity of public reason.
Perspective Transformation through Small Group Discipleship among Undergraduate University Students in Nairobi, Kenya
Authors: Mwangi Mary Wanjiru
Published: December 2018

This study explored ways in which participating in small group discipleship fosters perspective transformation among undergraduate university students. Sixteen college students, who had participated in small group discipleship for two or more years, were interviewed. Also, two focus group interviews, constituted of small discipleship group leaders, were conducted for triangulation. The findings revealed perspective transformation was fostered through connectedness to God, individual engagements, transformational pedagogy, transformative relationships, and mentoring. The study highlighted the need for teaching foundational knowledge about the Christian faith, equipping learners to: practice spiritual disciplines, do ministry, and competently carry out successful Christian lives, relationships, and mentoring.
The Problem with Black Boys: Race, Gender, and Discipline in Christian and Private Elementary Schools
Authors: Little Sharoni D. , Tolbert La Verne A.
Published: December 2018

In Christian, private, and public schools, Black boys are forced to endure educational environments that promulgate the stereotype of their supposed intellectual inadequacy and “troublesome” behavior. Deficit-based narratives, fueled by historical racist and sexist stereotypes, contend that Black boys are deviant, disengaged, disruptive, undisciplined, unintelligent, problematic, confrontational, threatening, and difficult to teach – all in a place that should be safe and affirming – schools. In this article, we examine how racial and gender stereotypes reify the educational plight of Black boys, and negatively influence key educational foci, including teacher expectations, pedagogy, curricula, institutional climate/culture, student assessment, and disciplinary matters.
Compressing, Expanding, and Attending to Scientific Meaning: Writing the Semiotic Hybrid of Science for Professional and Citizen Scientists
Authors: Reid Gwendolynne
Published: December 2018

Drawing on a text-based ethnography of digital writing in a biology laboratory, this article examines the text trajectory of a scientific manuscript and a scientific team’s related writing for public audiences, including for citizen scientists. Using data drawn from texts, observations, interviews, and related artifacts, the author examines how scientists conceptualize and adapt their multimodal writing for specialized scientific audiences as well as lay audiences interested in the work of scientific inquiry. Three concepts— meaning compression, meaning expansion, and meaning attention—were used to analyze the multimodal strategies that scientists employ when composing for different audiences. Findings suggest that while scientists often restrict their writing practices to meaning compression to maintain the values and conventions of scientific genres, they also sometimes deploy a wider range of multimodal strategies when writing for nonspecialist audiences. These findings underscore the complex rhetorical environments scientists navigate and the need to support emerging scientific writers’ development as versatile writers able to adapt varied multimodal strategies to diverse rhetorical and epistemic goals.
“Mi’jita, What for?” Exploring Bicultural Identity of Latina/Chicana Faculty and Implications for Supporting Latinx Students in Social Work
Authors: Mendoza Natasha S. , Lechuga-Peña Stephanie , Lopez Kristina , Jackson Kelly F.
Published: December 2018

Latinx faculty have an opportunity to influence a growing population of incoming Latinx students. As Chicana/Latina social work faculty, we seek to raise consciousness about our biculturalism and demonstrate how it could play a role in educating students. To that end, we highlight issues related to language. The meaning of language is complex, manifesting personally and politically. It is unclear how the relationship between identity and language intersect for individuals working in higher education. Thus, we draw on a theoretical model of bicultural competence and testimonios or first-person narratives to explore these issues in-depth, extrapolate meaning from experience, and report implications for research, teaching, and practice.
Guggulsterone, a farnesoid X receptor antagonist lowers plasma trimethylamine-N-oxide levels: An evidence from in vitro and in vivo studies
Authors: Gautam A , Paudel YN , Abidin SAZ , Bhandari U
Published: December 2018

The current study investigated the role of guggulsterone (GS), a farnesoid X receptor antagonist, in the choline metabolism and its trimethylamine (TMA)/flavin monooxygenases/trimethylamine- N-oxide (TMAO) inhibiting potential in a series of in vitro and in vivo studies as determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), mass spectroscopy (MS), and liquid chromatography (LC)-MS techniques. Atherosclerosis (AS) was successfully induced in a group of experimental animals fed with 2% choline diet for 6 weeks. Serum lipid profiles such as total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol were measured. Pro-inflammatory cytokines levels, markers for a hepatic injury, and oxidative stress markers were assessed. Interestingly, GS reduced the level of TMA/TMAO in both in vitro and in vivo studies as demonstrated by the peaks obtained from HPLC, MS, and LC–MS. Furthermore, GS exhibited cardioprotective and antihyperlipidemic effects as evidenced by the attenuation of levels of several serum lipid profiles and different atherogenic risk predictor indexes. GS also prevented hepatic injury by successfully restoring the levels of hepatic injury biomarkers to normal. Similarly, GS inhibited the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines levels, as well as GS, enhanced antioxidant capacity, and reduced lipid peroxidation. Histopathological study of aortic sections demonstrated that GS maintained the normal architecture in AS-induced rats. On the basis of results obtained from current investigation, we suggest that GS might have a great therapeutic potential for the treatment of AS.
The Establishment and the Role of the State–Joint Chiefs of Staff Meeting during the Korean War
Authors: Son Kyengho
Published: December 2018

The US government implemented the State–Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) Meeting to look over its politico-military policies and strategies to implement NSC 68/4 during the Korean War. The meeting became a critical organization to conduct the war as a limited war by developing a limited goal and providing strategies for a decision-making apparatus after the removal of General MacArthur from the post of Commander of the United Nations in March 1951. The meeting later provided politico-military directives to the JCS to continue the war in limited terms, supported the armistice negotiation, and contributed to the success of the first year’s agreement.
Transient binocular blindness: A rare presentation of aortic dissection
Authors: Shaharudin Abdul Hafiz , Ab Hamid Muhamad Hafiq , Yahaya Rosliza , Nik Him Nik Ahmad Shaiffudin , Nik Mohamed Nik Arif , Wan Jusoh Azizul Fadzli
Published: December 2018

Introduction:

Aortic dissection is a clinical chameleon that can have variable presenting features that require a careful history and physical examination. A non-specific presentation of this life-threatening condition causes a diagnostic dilemma among clinicians especially in the emergency department leading to grave consequences.

Case Presentation:

We present a case of aortic dissection that presented as an acute bilateral blindness that was associated with a sudden onset of loss of consciousness and central chest pain. Bedside carotid ultrasound showed a double lumen carotid artery suggesting an intraluminal flap. Computed tomography angiography revealed extensive dissection of the entire length of the aorta.

Discussion:

This case illustrated the need for a high index of suspicion to diagnose patients with aortic dissection especially as the patient presented with an acute binocular visual loss and chest pain.

Conclusion:

A bedside carotid artery ultrasound in the emergency department was found useful in screening and diagnosing a carotid artery–related pathology.
A young woman with right upper quadrant pain
Authors: Lee Sun Hwa , Yun Seong Jong
Published: December 2018

Patients with right upper quadrant pain are commonly encountered in the emergency department. The causes of right upper quadrant range from infection or inflammation to malignancy. Thus, prompt and accurate diagnoses are essential in the emergency department. However, vicarious excretion of contrast media via the gallbladder, presenting as right upper quadrant pain, has been rarely reported and is not well known. The present case is instructive because gallbladder opacification is often considered a pathologic condition in patients with right upper quadrant pain. Although vicarious excretion via the gallbladder is uncommon in patients with right upper quadrant pain, inaccurate or delayed diagnoses may prolong hospitalization and increase medical costs due to unnecessary and invasive diagnostic procedures.
Research of the Active Substance of Gaming Simulation
Authors: Kriz Willy Christian
Published: December 2018

Ivo Wenzler (2008) distinguishes four components of the active substance of gaming simulation: the context, the participants, the process and the environment. His taxonomy further defines four sub-dimensions for each component. His framework of 16 factors is looking to games from a design science and structural level. This editorial presents the contents of the articles of the issue. The articles and the games mentioned are classified into the useful framework of Wenzler.
About Face: Reflexively Considering “Audience” in Hiring Situations
Authors: Randazzo Chalice
Published: December 2018

Using data from 88 students, 20 advisers, and 24 hirers about U.S. résumés, this article focuses on face of the company, the concept of employers' evaluating how well applicants might represent a company. The results of applying rhetorical listening’s identification–disidentification to “face” suggested two outcomes and their implications. First, primary audiences invoked secondary audiences to the point in which they conflated, suggesting that résumés should incorporate secondary audiences. Second, hirers sometimes violated their own beliefs about diversity hiring because of audiences they invoked, suggesting that because invoking audience can perpetuate inequitable hiring practices, hirers should be more nuanced about the audiences they choose.
The Internet and Changes in the Media Industry: A 5-Year Cross-National Examination of Media Industries for 51 Countries
Authors: Ji Sung Wook
Published: December 2018

This study explores the effects of the Internet on changes in traditional media industries. Previous studies addressing the Internet’s effects on media industries have largely been conducted in a piecemeal fashion, with most tackling narrowly defined topics limited to individual media in specific countries. By taking a broader perspective on the Internet’s effects, this study examines changes in the aggregate revenue of all major media industries. Employing country-level, panel-data analysis of 51 countries from 2009 to 2013, the study shows that the Internet has led to a shift in the balance of revenue away from advertising and toward direct payments.
Hyperactive Child Syndrome and Estimated Life Expectancy at Young Adult Follow-Up: The Role of ADHD Persistence and Other Potential Predictors
Authors: Barkley Russell A. , Fischer Mariellen
Published: December 2018

Objective: We examined if ADHD Combined Type or Presentation (ADHD-C) reduced estimated life expectancy (ELE) at young adulthood and if the persistence of ADHD to adulthood further adversely affected ELE. Method: A young adult follow-up of 131 hyperactive and 71 control cases was used to derive 14 variables that were entered into a life expectancy calculator to generate ELE scores. Both ratings of executive function (EF) in everyday life and tests of EF and IQ were measured along with comorbid psychopathologies. Results: Childhood ADHD-C was associated with a 9.5-year reduction in healthy ELE, and a 8.4-year reduction in total ELE relative to control children by adulthood. The persistence of ADHD to adulthood was linked to a 12.7-year reduction in ELE. Several background traits accounted for more than 39% of variation in ELE. Conclusion: Childhood ADHD-C predicts a significantly reduced ELE by adulthood, which is further reduced by the persistence of ADHD to adult follow-up.
Methylphenidate Alters Functional Connectivity of Default Mode Network in Drug-Naive Male Adults With ADHD
Authors: Picon Felipe Almeida , Sato João Ricardo , Anés Maurício , Vedolin Leonardo Modesti , Mazzola Alessandro André , Valentini Bruna Bressan , Cupertino Renata Basso , Karam Rafael Gomes , Victor Marcelo Moraes , Breda Vitor , Silva Katiane , da Silva Neivo , Bau Claiton Henrique Dotto , Grevet Eugenio Horacio , Rohde Luis Augusto Paim
Published: December 2018

Objective: This study evaluated the hypothesis that methylphenidate immediate release (MPH-IR) treatment would improve Default Mode Network (DMN) within-connectivity. Method: Resting-state functional connectivity of the main nodes of DMN was evaluated in a highly homogeneous sample of 18 drug-naive male adult participants with ADHD. Results: Comparing resting-state functional connectivity functional magnetic resonance imaging (R-fMRI) scans before and after MPH treatment focusing exclusively on within-DMN connectivity, we evidenced the strengthening of functional connectivity between two nodes of the DMN: posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) and left lateral parietal cortex (LLP). Conclusion: Our results contribute to the further understanding on how MPH affects functional connectivity within DMN of male adults with ADHD and corroborate the hypothesis of ADHD being a delayed neurodevelopmental disorder.
“Real Heroes Care”: How Dad Bloggers Are Reconstructing Fatherhood and Masculinities
Authors: Scheibling Casey
Published: December 2018

“Dad bloggers” are an emerging community of fathers in North America. These men use social media to document and discuss their experiences as parents and gather annually at the Dad 2.0 Summit. A central topic of discussion both online and offline is how involved fathers negotiate and rework gender roles and expectations. This study examines how dad bloggers create and engage with discourse about masculinities. Using blog posts, fieldwork observations, and interviews as data, I present qualitative findings illustrating the ways in which dad bloggers challenge traditional notions of masculinity, construct “caring masculinities,” and adopt a pro-feminist perspective. Despite certain tensions and contradictions within the community, I argue that dad bloggers are reconstructing fatherhood and masculinities in ways that promote care and equality overall.
Cardiac troponin I in cats with compromised renal function
Authors: Langhorn Rebecca , Jessen Lisbeth R , Kloster Anne S , Jensen Anders P , Koch Jørgen
Published: December 2018

Objectives

Cardiac troponins are sensitive and specific markers of myocardial injury. However, their reliability in renal disease has been questioned owing to possible renal involvement in troponin elimination. The primary objective of the present study was to examine whether serum cardiac troponin I is elevated in cats with compromised renal function and no clinically relevant structural cardiac disease. A secondary objective was to examine whether cardiac troponin I is measurable in the urine of cats with normal and compromised renal function.

Methods

This prospective case-control study included 52 cats (19 with compromised renal function, 19 with primary cardiac disease and 14 healthy controls). For all cats, clinical examination, echocardiography, electrocardiography, blood pressure, complete blood count, biochemistry, serum thyroxine and urinalysis were performed. Cardiac troponin I was measured in the serum and urine of each cat.

Results

Median (range) serum cardiac troponin I concentrations were 0.052 ng/ml (0.015–0.78 ng/ml) for the renal group, 0.083 ng/ml (0.003–3.27 ng/ml) for the cardiac group and 0.012 ng/ml (0.003–0.14 ng/ml) for the control group. The renal and cardiac groups both had significantly higher serum cardiac troponin I concentrations than the control group, whereas no difference could be detected between the renal and cardiac groups. In the renal group 7/19 cats had measurable urine cardiac troponin I, whereas cardiac troponin I was measurable in the urine of one cat in the cardiac group and two healthy controls. There was no significant correlation between serum and urine cardiac troponin I.

Conclusions and relevance

Elevated serum cardiac troponin I in cats with compromised renal function may occur without evidence of clinically relevant structural cardiac disease. Moreover, detecting cardiac troponin I in urine is most likely in cats with compromised renal function.
Statin use is associated with less postoperative cardiac arrhythmia after total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Chen Michael J , Bala Abiram , Huddleston James I , Goodman Stuart B , Maloney William J , Aaronson Alistair J , Amanatullah Derek F
Published: December 2018

Introduction:

While statins have been found to reduce postoperative atrial fibrillation after cardiac surgery, little is known about their use in total hip arthroplasty (THA). This study investigated if statins would similarly reduce postoperative arrhythmias in patients undergoing THA.

Methods:

We queried a large Medicare and private-payer database from 2005 to 2012 and identified 12,075 patients who were on a statin prior to THA. We then age and sex matched 34,446 non-statin users who underwent THA. Baseline comorbidities and postoperative complications were obtained and assessed via standard descriptive statistics.

Results:

The statin users had more preoperative comorbidities including congestive heart failure, valvular heart disease, pulmonary and renal disease, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and anaemia (all p values < 0.001). Postoperatively, the statin users had a statistically higher 90-day incidence of transfusion, acute renal failure, heart failure, pneumonia, and sepsis/shock. All new-onset cardiac arrhythmia was significantly less frequent in the statin group at 2 weeks (3.88% vs. 4.72%, p < 0.001), 30 days (4.47% vs. 5.29%, p < 0.001), and 90 days (5.44% vs. 6.31%, p = 0.001) postoperative. There was no difference in the frequency of venous thromboembolism, myocardial infarction, postoperative anaemia, or bleeding at 90 days postoperative.

Discussion:

Despite being medically sicker at baseline with multiple risk factors for atrial fibrillation compared to the non-statin users, the statin users displayed a consistently lower occurrence of postoperative cardiac arrhythmia in this retrospective cohort study. Statins may therefore be beneficial in the preoperative optimisation of medically complex patients undergoing THA.
Immigrant network diversity in the land of the fair go
Authors: Côté Rochelle R , Huang Xianbi , Huang Yangtao , Western Mark
Published: December 2018

Using data from a first national Australian survey of networks, this article explores factors linked with differential diversity of immigrant social capital. Past international research shows that ethnic minorities have less diverse social capital, an important resource for securing opportunities and getting ahead. A similar research focus has not existed so far in Australia. This article explores social capital in Australia, focusing on immigrants from different world regions. Findings show significant inequalities in social capital across immigrants and that time spent in Australia does not improve these inequalities when compared with those who are native-born. Conclusions posit the need for a greater focus on social capital and ethnic inequality in Australia.
Harmonic vibration testing for damage detection and localization in concrete
Authors: Bao Yanqing , Mahadevan Sankaran
Published: December 2018

Current structural health monitoring techniques face significant difficulties in damage diagnosis for heterogeneous materials such as concrete. In this article, we propose a damage diagnosis methodology that overcomes such difficulties and is capable of detecting and localizing the damage, using linear swept and harmonic vibration tests with swept and sinusoidal waveforms. The proposed damage detection procedure uses novel features based on singular value decomposition of linearly swept waveform test data. The latter singular vectors of the intact basis are found to be sensitive to the presence of damage. The damage localization uses a K-factor metric calculated using sinusoidal waveform test data. The K-factor is used to measure the deviation of a signal away from a sinusoid. The damage diagnosis methodology is demonstrated and validated using experiments on thin concrete slabs with drilled holes and thicker concrete blocks with alkali–silica reaction damage.
Bilingualism as a Borderland: Researching Youth’s Practices, Perspectives, and Positioning Between Languages
Authors: Hamilton Colleen
Published: December 2018

Seen from a critical intersectional perspective, the experiences of bilinguals are embedded in liminal spaces between language and cultural practices. Yet, rather than leverage these novel and hybrid practices for learning, dominant paradigms in education have historically subtracted nondominant students’ home languages from their communicative resources. To similar effect, current trends in bilingual education promote language separation for equal development of languages severed from each other and from cultural contexts. Such reductive approaches to language education disregard the dynamic and heteroglossic language use documented in bilingual communities. Drawing on in-depth interviews with youth, written reflections, and artifacts of bilingualism, I explore these practices across/between languages by conceptualizing bilingualism as a borderland navigated by Spanish–English bilingual youth. Considering bilingualism as a liminal position foregrounds moments of tension and transition in the language and schooling trajectories of youth as they navigate the anguish and advantage of living in-between. Furthermore, I highlight the methodological implications of framing bilingualism as a borderland to inform research design in language and education fields.
Characterizing Spontaneous Motor Recovery Following Cortical and Subcortical Stroke in the Rat
Authors: Karthikeyan Sudhir , Jeffers Matthew Strider , Carter Anthony , Corbett Dale
Published: December 2018

Background. Stroke is a leading cause of neurological disability, often resulting in long-term motor impairments due to damage to cortical or subcortical motor areas. Despite the high prevalence of subcortical strokes in the clinical population, preclinical research has primarily focused on investigating and treating cortical strokes. Moreover, while both humans and animals show spontaneous recovery following stroke, little is known about how injury location affects this process. Objective. To capture the heterogeneity of human stroke and examine how stroke location affects spontaneous motor recovery following damage to cortical, subcortical, or a combination of both areas. Methods. Endothelin-1 (ET-1), a potent vasoconstrictor, was used to produce focal infarcts in the forelimb motor cortex (FMC), the dorsolateral striatum (DLS) or both the FMC and DLS in male Sprague-Dawley rats. The spontaneous recovery profile of animals was followed over an 8-week period using a battery of behavioral tasks assessing motor function and limb preference. Results. All 3 groups showed significant impairments on the Montoya staircase, beam, and cylinder tests following stroke, with the combined group (FMC + DLS) having the largest and most persistent impairments. Importantly, spontaneous recovery was not simply dependent on lesion volume, but on location, and the behavioral test employed. Conclusions. Stroke location markedly and differentially influences the level of spontaneous functional recovery, which is only captured by using multiple outcome measures. These results illustrate the need for preclinical stroke models to align with the heterogeneity of human stroke, especially with respect to lesion location, size, and outcome measures.
Factors Associated With Smoking Intentions Among Chinese College Students
Authors: Wu Yanling , Fan Hong , Guo Zhenyou , Wei Liangmin
Published: December 2018

Smoking intention is a strong predictor of future smoking behavior. The aim of this study is to identify the significant factors associated with smoking intention among Chinese college students. A total of 2,827 students in Eastern, Middle, and Western regions of China, randomly selected using a multistage sampling method, completed the self-administered questionnaires. The association of independent variables with smoking intention was evaluated using the logistic regression model. Overall, the proportion of college students with a strong smoking intention was 6.9%. Male students (odds ratio [OR] 2.205, 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.374, 3.538]), those students whose mothers smoked (OR 3.328, 95% CI [1.527, 7.252]), those whose mothers had a higher educational level (OR 0.583, 95% CI [0.346, 0.984]), current smokers (OR 14.081, 95% CI [9.306, 21.307]), former smokers (OR 3.824, 95% CI [1.728, 8.463]), and those for whom most (OR 2.663, 95% CI [1.348, 5.261]) or a few (OR 1.826, 95% CI [1.045, 3.191]) of their closest friends were smokers had statistically significant associations with the smoking intentions of Chinese college students. Further studies are needed to elucidate mechanisms and pathways across various factors, and these factors should be incorporated into future multilevel interventions designed to decrease smoking intention among college students.
Nonwoven Uniformity — Measurements Using Image Analysis
Authors: Chhabra Rajeev
Published: December 2018

Statistical measures have been developed for quality control as well as characterization of mass distribution in fibrous substrates. The mass distribution in 2D space has been measured by imaging the substrate. The intensity distribution of reflected/transmitted light has been used as a representative of the mass distribution. Spatial mass uniformity has been measured in terms of a standardized index of dispersion and mass anisotropy ratio that are reasonably independent of fiber mass density. The dispersion index is standardized between the limits of −1 and +1, with −1 representing uniform distribution and +1 representing aggregated distribution. Furthermore, the standardized values have been combined with the qualitative grades to categorize and differentiate uniform patterns. Standardized index of dispersion and mass anisotropy ratio have been evaluated for a wide range of non-woven webs and adhesive lay down patterns.
Utilization of Peanut Shell Fibers in Nonwoven Erosion Control Materials
Authors: Bieak Nicole , George Brian R.
Published: December 2018

Every year large quantities of peanut shells are disposed of due to a lack of uses for these materials. The current research focuses on utilizing fibers from peanut shells for use in non-woven fabrics. This required creating a method of obtaining fibers from the shells, which was not highly time intensive. Once fibers were obtained they were characterized and formed into nonwoven fabrics via wet laid web formation and latex bonding, although other methods of web formation and bonding were attempted. The fibers were determined to be weak yet stiff, in comparison with other textile fibers. The resulting fabrics were evaluated for strength, light transmittance, and water resistance, to determine their suitability as erosion control fabrics. The results were compared to those for commercial erosion control fabrics. The peanut fiber fabrics had some similar properties to the commercial fabrics, which indicate that these fabrics may be suitable for this purpose.
Impact of the Seam on the Properties of Technical and Nonwoven Textiles for Making Car Seat Coverings
Authors: Ujevic Darko , Kovacevic Stana
Published: December 2018

The influence of the number of stitches in the seam on the joined places of car seat coverings was investigated. The properties of the fabric in seamless places were examined as well. Fabric samples include: technical fabrics, nonwoven materials, knitted fabrics, artificial leather that were cut from sewn seat covers with a different number of stitches per length unit. The following parameters of the fabric were examined: breaking force and resistance to abrasion. It was found that the characteristics of fabrics on joined places differ in the number of stitches per length unit.
Influence of Heat-Stretching Treatment on Structure and Properties of Bico MB Nonwoven Webs
Authors: Zhang Dong , Sun Christine (Qin) , Liu Yanbo
Published: December 2018

Heat stretching treatment (HST) to side-by-side bicomponent meltblown webs has been carried out on the Stretch Consolidation Pilot Line at the UTK-TANDEC Demonstration Laboratory, to examine the influence of HST on the web structure and properties. The results showed that the fibers aligned preferentially along machine direction after the treatment. Changes in the web structure and properties were studied, including basis weight, thickness, air permeability, tensile strength, bending stiffness, as well as extension recovery (%) from the strain of 50% elongation-to-break, etc. No fiber splitting was observed, which indicated that HST did not result in fiber splitting in the bicomponent meltblown webs as desired.
New Developments in the Assessment of Protective Fabrics using Computational Models
Authors: Hill Roger W. , Barry James J.
Published: December 2018

Advances continue in the use of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) for predicting the performance of fabrics, especially those used for chemical and steam/fire protective clothing. In this CFD modeling approach, solution of transport equations determines diffusive and convective transport of heat and gases/vapors; capillary transport of liquids; vapor and liquid sorption phenomena and phase change; and the variable properties of various fabric materials. Models employing the approach have been developed ranging from simplified representations of air flow over a 2-D clothed human arm or test facilities used for material characterization to large 3-D human body regions with multi-layered clothing ensembles. In this continuing research, cases considered include adsorption of chemical vapors by activated carbon fabrics, liquid wicking into fabric samples and evaporation into the surrounding gas, and flow around and through fabrics covering a human form. Applications of the models include analysis of chemical protective garment design for military and emergency response personnel, comparisons of thermally protective materials for steam or fire protection, evaluation of clothing test data, design of clothing fabric testing systems, and engineered fabrics.
Improving the Impact Strength of Natural Fiber Reinforced Composites by Specifically Designed Material and Process Parameters
Authors: Mueller Dieter H.
Published: December 2018

Composite materials and layered structures based on natural plant fibers are increasingly regarded as an alternative to glass fiber reinforced parts. One of their major field of application can be found in structural components for the automotive industry. Product examples are door trim panels or instrument panels. For such applications an utmost impact strength is required in order to implement a maximum of passenger safety by a good crash behavior. The paper describes the effects of several material parameters such as fiber fineness or fleece composition as well as the impact of the process conditions on this important composite characteristic.
Submicron Filtration Media
Authors: Shields Christopher
Published: December 2018

Biopharmaceutical processes, membrane pretreatment, water purification and food and beverage applications all require fine filtration. There are many different types of filter media that can be used for these applications. The types of media vary by materials of construction, processing method and performance characteristics. Each process produces a media with unique properties that have advantages in different applications.

These industries have traditionally relied on membranes for their submicron filtration needs. Nonwoven media have not been successful in finer filtration applications due to the relatively large fibers that are produced or the technical and/or operational difficulties in producing fine fiber media. A significant amount of research has been expended over the last few years on developing high efficiency wetlaid media and producing fine diameter synthetic fibers in drylaid operations.

Nonwoven media have begun to compete with membranes and other separation technologies in these fine filtration applications. High efficiency nonwoven media composites have equivalent efficiency as many types of membranes but with significantly higher dirt holding capacity or life.

This paper will discuss the different types of wetlaid, drylaid and membrane media available for submicron filtration and compare their methods of construction, performance and cost.
Constitutional identity as a tool to improve defence rights in European criminal law
Authors: Sáenz Pérez Cristina
Published: December 2018

Since the early years of the European Arrest Warrant (EAW), fundamental rights concerns have been at the centre of the development of judicial cooperation in criminal matters that has taken place in the European Union (EU). The attempts to ensure compliance with minimum standards across the EU after Lisbon did not solve the other pressing issue in this area, namely the existence of different fundamental rights safeguards at the national level. Melloni tried to settle this dispute by limiting the protection of fundamental rights to those harmonized by EU law, but recent case law has questioned this approach. This article explores the possibility of applying Article 4(2) Treaty on European Union to protect a degree of legal diversity that contributes to improving the fundamental rights framework applicable to judicial cooperation measures. The goal is to analyse the possibility of implementing a limited constitutional identity exception that enables Member States to protect rights that are part of their constitutional identity. For this purpose, the recent case law of the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) in the Taricco saga will be examined and compared with the way in which domestic courts have implemented national identity exceptions.
The logic of delegation and institutional contexts: Ministerial selection under mixed-member systems in Japan
Authors: Kubo Hiroki
Published: December 2018

How do electoral systems and legislative institutions modify the logic of delegation in ministerial selection processes? This study argues that candidate-centered electoral systems and bicameralism increase the risk of agency loss. I reveal how these two institutional contexts mediate party leaders’ strategies on the allocation of ministerial posts by analyzing Japan’s ministerial-selection data and survey-based ideal point estimates from 2003 to 2014. The empirical results indicate that, under the party-centered electoral systems of the lower house, individuals’ ideological proximity to the party leadership increases the probability of their joining a cabinet. However, party leaders allocate cabinet posts to ideological outliers in the upper house and also select MPs who are ideologically distant from the party leadership under the candidate-centered electoral systems in order to maintain party unity.
Children With Inguinal Hernia Repairs: Age and Gender Characteristics
Authors: Chen Yih-Hung , Wei Chin-Hung , Wang Kai-Wei K.
Published: December 2018

Objective. This study reports the age and gender characteristics of children with inguinal hernia repairs (International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification [ICD-9-CM] Operation Codes 530-533). Methods. We used a retrospective cohort study design based on 2 data sources from 2007 to 2011 (the Bureau of National Health Insurance, Department of Health, Taiwan, and a local teaching children’s hospital database) and descriptive statistics to analyze the group’s age and gender differences as independent variables. Results. The gender ratio was 7 males to 1 female in the general population, whereas the gender ratio in children was 3.5 males to 1 female. Gender difference was found statistically significant in the age subgroup difference: boys (49.1%) were more than girls (39.3%) in ages 1 to 4, while girls (37.8%) were more than boys (23.7%) in ages 5 to 9. Based on the local hospital’s data, of those 611 (15%) children born and who received herniorrhaphy, 204 (33.4%) were born as preterm infants and 407 (66.6%) as term infants. The gender ratio among 204 children born prematurely and received herniorrhaphy was 3 males to 1 female. Of those 353 infants under 6 months who received herniorrhaphy, 155 (76%) were preterm infants while 198 (48.6%) were term infants. Conclusion. Early screening of inguinal hernia for children is important and should focus on those born prematurely, particularly those aged <6 months and boys.