bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Caudal Septal Division and Interposition Batten Graft: A Novel Technique to Correct Caudal Septal Deviation in Septoplasty
Authors: Kim Shin Ae , Jang Yong Ju
Published: August 2019

Background:

Correction of caudal septal deviation is a challenging task that may require multiple surgical approaches.

Objective:

To introduce a novel technique – caudal septal division and interposition batten graft – and evaluate its surgical outcomes in patients undergoing correction of caudal septal deviation.

Method:

The surgical procedure includes a division of the deviated caudal L-strut preserved after resection of the deviated quadrangular septal cartilage at the central portion. A batten graft made of septal cartilage or bone is interposed between the cut ends of the caudal L-strut, the upper part of which mobilized toward the more concave side of the nasal cavity, and then sutured. The medical records of 29 patients with caudal septal deviation who underwent septoplasty using caudal L-strut division and interposition batten graft technique between January 2016 and March 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. Patient satisfaction and symptom improvement were evaluated by using the Nasal Obstruction Symptoms Evaluation scores. Endoscopic assessment of deviation correction was performed and postoperative complications were analyzed.

Results:

Of the 29 patients, 19 (65.5%) answered the telephonic interview. Mean Nasal Obstruction Symptoms Evaluation scores were 62.1 preoperatively and 9.2 postoperatively, exhibiting significant improvement ( P < .001). Satisfaction was rated as much improved in 9 (32.0%) patients, improved in 16 (57.0%), unchanged in 2 (7%), and worse in 1 (4%). Records of endoscopic examinations showed that 26 (82.9%) patients had a straight septum, 4 (11.4%) had improved but persisting caudal deviation, and 2 (5.7%) had no available data. Four patients had postoperative complications: 2 had septal abscesses, 1 had wound dehiscence, and 1 had synechia. All of these complications were managed without persistent problems.

Conclusions:

Caudal septal division and interposition batten graft can serve as an alternative surgical approach with acceptable surgical outcomes for managing severely deviated caudal septum.

Level of evidence:

4
Timing of Referral to Early Intervention Services in Infants With Severe Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia
Authors: Martin Valerie , Brady Jennifer M. , Wade Kelcy , Gerdes Marsha , DeMauro Sara B.
Published: August 2019

This study is a secondary analysis of an observational prospective case series of 50 infants with severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia that describes patient factors associated with the time between initial hospital discharge and referral to early intervention (EI) services. It also evaluates associations between (1) timing of EI referral and reception of EI services and (2) early referral to EI and developmental outcomes at 18 to 36 months corrected age. The results demonstrated that a referral from a neonatologist versus a pediatrician was associated with fewer days between discharge and EI referral. Earlier EI referrals were associated with a shorter time to intake evaluation and service initiation. The Bayley-III (Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, 3rd Edition) scores at 24 months corrected age (n = 28) were not associated with timing of EI referral. In conclusion, an early referral to EI promoted earlier evaluation and initiation of EI services and should be standard for high-risk infants.
Clinical Validity Assessment of Integrated Dose Range Checking Tool in a Tertiary Care Hospital Using an Electronic Health Information System
Authors: Al-Jazairi Abdulrazaq S. , AlQadheeb Eman K. , AlShammari Lama K. , AlAshaikh Maha A. , Al-Moeen Abdulgader , Cahusac Peter , Al-Swailem Osama
Published: August 2019

Background/purpose: The electronic clinical decision support system (CDSS) is mainly used to assist health care providers in their decision-making process. CDSS includes the dose range checking (DRC) tool. This study aims to evaluate the clinical validity of the DRC tool and compare it to the institutional Formulary and Drug Therapy Guide powered by Lexi-Comp. Methods: This retrospective study analyzed DRC alerts in the inpatient setting. Alerts were assessed for their clinical validity when compared to recommendations of the institution’s formulary. Relevant data regarding patient demographics and characteristics were collected. A sample size of 3000 DRC alerts was needed to give a margin of error of 1% (using normal approximation to binomial distribution gives 30.26/3000 = 1%). Results: In our cohort, 1659 (55%) of the DRC alerts were generated for adult patients. A total of 1557 (52%) of all medication-related DRC alerts recommended renal dose adjustments, while 708 (24%) needed hepatic dose adjustments. Majority of alerts, 2844 (95%), were clinically invalid. A total of 2892 (96%) alerts were overridden by prescribers. In 997 (33%) cases, there was an overdose relative to the recommended dose, and in 1572 (52%) there was underdosing. Residents were more likely to accept the DRC alerts compared with other health provider categories ( P < .001). Conclusion: Using DRC as a clinical decision support tool with minimal integration yielded serious clinically invalid recommendations. This could increase medication-prescribing errors and lead to alert fatigue in electronic health care systems.
Compatibility of electrical generators for harvesting extended power from wind energy conversion system
Authors: Samraj Dhas Bensam , Perumal Maruthu Pandi
Published: August 2019

In this paper, a comparative study between the two generator types with wind energy conversion system is proposed. The two generator types are doubly fed induction generators and permanent magnet synchronous generators. As in the wind turbine context, doubly fed induction generators and permanent magnet synchronous generators seem to be attractive solutions to be used to harness the wind energy. Wind turbine generators compatibility is anticipated in view of the stochastic nature of wind profile in the particular location in correlation with the Electro-Magnetic Torque profile of the wind generator which is acquired by simulating wind energy conversion system for the available wind speeds with high efficient generators. To validate the advantage of the proposed system, the torque profile of doubly fed induction generators and permanent magnet synchronous generators with an hourly average wind speed for 24-h time period is analysed. The real and reactive power of permanent magnet synchronous generators at wind speed of 13 m/s and permanent magnet synchronous generators increased pole pairs at wind speed of 13 m/s are also analysed. Furthermore, the power delivered by doubly fed induction generators and permanent magnet synchronous generators is analysed and compared. The comparison results demonstrate that the superiority of the permanent magnet synchronous generators over doubly fed induction generators and confirm its potential to extract the maximum energy from the wind.
Optimism and life satisfaction in persons with schizophrenia living in the community
Authors: Seo Myeong-Ah , Lim Young-Jin
Published: August 2019

Background:

This study aimed at examining the relationships between optimism and life satisfaction in persons with schizophrenia living in the community.

Method:

In total, 108 persons with schizophrenia who live in the community, ranging in age from 20 to 67 years, completed measures of optimism, perceived stress and life satisfaction.

Results:

Results showed that optimism significantly predicted life satisfaction even after controlling for gender, age, onset age, employment and perceived stress.

Conclusion:

Findings add further support to the growing body of evidence implicating that the intervention for enhancing life satisfaction in persons with schizophrenia dwelling in the community could focus on increasing optimism.
Interfacial characterization of functionalized graphene-epoxy composites
Authors: Melro Liliana S , Jensen Lars R
Published: August 2019

The interface of graphene/epoxy was studied using molecular dynamics simulations by calculating the work of separation and traction-separation responses in the normal mode. The influence of functionalization of the graphene layers on the traction-separation behaviour was also examined by grafting hydroxyl, carboxyl, and carbonyl groups. It is shown that the magnitude of the maximum traction is clearly larger for functionalized graphene/epoxy systems as compared to pristine graphene. The work of adhesion also shows a clear difference in the interface behaviour of functionalized graphene/epoxy and pristine/epoxy systems with the presence of functional groups generating higher values of work of separation.
Effect of different stacking sequences on hybrid carbon/glass/epoxy composites laminate: Thermal, dynamic mechanical and long-term behavior
Authors: Monte Vidal Dielly Cavalcanti da Silva , Ornaghi Heitor L , Ornaghi Felipe Gustavo , Monticeli Francisco Maciel , Voorwald Herman Jacobus Cornelis , Cioffi Maria Odila Hilário
Published: August 2019

In the present study, different stacking sequences on hybrid carbon/glass/epoxy composites laminate were examined in relation to thermal, dynamic mechanical and long-term behavior. A positive hybrid effect was found for both hybrid composites (interleaved-Hybrid 1 and in block-Hybrid 2) showing that in some cases hybrid composites can properly replace carbon or glass composites. The composite containing all glass fiber in the middle (Hybrid 2) presented similar thermal behavior when compared to glass fiber composite. All hybrid composites presented higher storage modulus when compared to glass composite. Dynamic mechanical analysis showed that both hybrids can satisfactorily perform the requirement in a wide temperature range. The long-term prediction was successfully applied for all composites, showing to be highly temperature-dependent. Hence, depending on the application requirement, both hybrids can be used, saving weight and cost.
Language Proficiency, Parenting Styles, and Socioemotional Adjustment of Young Dual Language Learners
Authors: Chung Sara , Zhou Qing , Anicama Catherine , Rivera Carol , Uchikoshi Yuuko
Published: August 2019

Dual language learners (DLLs) make up 32% of all children in the United States. Past research showed that proficiency in a heritage language (HL) was associated with better psychological adjustment in school-aged children and adolescents, but the associations of HL and English (EL) proficiency with preschool-aged DLLs’ socioemotional adjustment remain understudied. This study included a sample of low-income Mexican and Chinese immigrant families with preschool-aged DLLs ( N = 90). Children’s HL and EL proficiencies were assessed using language tests. Parents rated their own cultural orientations, parenting styles, and children’s socioemotional adjustment. Children’s expressed anger/frustration and sadness were observed from an emotion-evoking task. Path analyses were conducted to test (a) the unique relations of children’s HL and EL proficiency and parents’ American and heritage cultural orientations to parenting styles, and (b) the relations of parenting styles to children’s adjustment. Results showed that children’s expressive HL proficiency and parents’ American and heritage cultural orientations were positively associated with authoritative parenting, which in turn was associated with children’s lower externalizing problems and higher prosocial behaviors. Children’s expressive EL was negatively associated with parents’ use of authoritarian parenting, and both expressive and receptive HL were negatively associated with children’s expressed sadness. These results indicate that children’s HL development and parents’ host and heritage cultural orientations are associated with socioemotional benefits for young DLLs growing up in low-income immigrant families.
Realistic simulation of mixed sea using multiple spectrum-based wave systems
Authors: Park Sekil , Park Jinah
Published: August 2019

The sea has a very wide, irregular, and continuously changing surface and is usually a mixed sea composed of several wave systems. Each wave system is generated from different locations and conditions and has its own characteristics. The Fourier domain approach using sea wave spectra is an effective technique for the realistic simulation of sea surfaces in real time, but the conventional Fourier domain approach cannot independently simulate the characteristics of each wave system. In this paper, we propose a realistic and real-time simulation method of the mixed sea using multiple spectrum-based wave systems for maritime simulators. We recognize the importance of the visual and physical contributions of each wave system and faithfully reproduce all wave systems in the mixed sea. In order to simulate the mixed sea, our method generates and combines multiple spectrum-based wave systems using adaptive spectral sampling of the separated spectrum of the multi-peaked spectrum. The unique characteristics of each wave system can be set independently through spectral parameters, sampling number and range, wave direction and spread, and the shape factor of waves. The proposed method also supports the smooth transition between sea states, such as wind sea, swell, and mixed sea. Through the experiments, we verify that the proposed method effectively reflects sea wave spectra and the reproduced sea has very similar statistical characteristics to the actual sea. Experimental results also show that our approach can simulate the mixed sea, which has high-frequency wind sea and low-frequency swell.
Intelligent nonlinear model predictive control of gas pipeline networks
Authors: Moetamedzadeh Hamid Reza , Khanmirza Esmaeel , Pourfard Ali , Madoliat Reza
Published: August 2019

In gas pipeline networks, the set-points should be carefully tuned to minimize the fuel consumption of compressor stations and meet the network requirements. In practice, the real demand has some variations over the forecasted one and consequently utilizing an appropriate controller to minimize the fuel consumption and manage the network variations is inevitable. The model predictive control is a great choice for systems with long delay such as gas networks. In this paper, an intelligent nonlinear model predictive control of a gas pipeline plant is proposed. It models the plant in fully transient state by a multi-layer perceptron neural network. The prediction power of the neural network is used to predict the plant output over a receding horizon. Initially, the network is trained offline and is then paralyzed with the real plant for online training. The proposed strategy consists of two main stages. In the first stage, the compressor set-points are optimized in the open loop condition considering the forecasted demand over a receding horizon and the resulting output pressures are chosen as the reference trajectories for the closed loop system. In the second stage, the controller is applied to compensate the demand variations. The optimization task is carried out using particle swarm optimization gravitation search algorithm (PSOGSA). Numerical results confirm the accuracy and robustness of the proposed controller in the presence of demand variations, noise and uncertainties.
Improvements in Children’s Feeding Behavior after Intensive Interdisciplinary Behavioral Treatment: Comparisons by Developmental and Medical Status
Authors: Seiverling Laura , Hendy Helen M. , Yusupova Stella , Kaczor Aleksandra , Panora Julio , Rodriguez JoKathleen
Published: August 2019

This study examined changes in child mealtime behavior, diet variety, and family mealtime environment after intensive interdisciplinary behavioral treatment (IIBT) for 52 children referred to a day treatment feeding program. Children fell into three developmental status groups including autism spectrum disorder ( n = 16), other special needs ( n = 19), and no special needs ( n = 17), with some having no known medical problems ( n = 22) and some having gastrointestinal, cardiopulmonary, and/or endocrine-metabolic problems ( n = 28). At pre-intervention and post-intervention, caregivers completed the About Your Child’s Eating scale, the Brief Assessment of Mealtime Behavior in Children, and a food preference inventory of 70 common foods (20 fruits, 23 vegetables, 12 proteins, 8 grains, 7 dairy). Mixed-factor 2 × 3 ANOVAs compared each of the 11 feeding outcomes across the two study phases (pre-, post-intervention) for the three developmental status groups. All feeding outcomes except fruit acceptance showed significant improvements from pre- to post-intervention, with no main effects for developmental status, and no interaction effects. Additionally, mixed-factor 2 × 2 ANOVAs compared each of the 11 feeding outcomes across the two study phases (pre-, post-intervention) for children with and without medical problems. All feeding outcomes except fruit acceptance showed significant improvements from pre- to post-intervention, with no main effects for medical status, and no interaction effects. Present results suggest that IIBT is effective for improving a number of children’s feeding problems, regardless of their developmental or medical status.
Evaluating Preference and Performance in Accumulated versus Distributed Response–Reinforcer Arrangements
Authors: Weston Regan , Davis Tonya , Ross Robert K.
Published: August 2019

To determine the effects of response–reinforcer arrangements on task performance and preference, participants completed tasks on accumulated and distributed response–reinforcer arrangements. Three males diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder completed tasks before receiving 5-min or 30-seconds access to a preferred stimulus. To enhance discrimination between the two arrangements, color-coded token boards were used to represent each arrangement. Responding was evaluated within a multielement design to compare the response rate across conditions for each participant. A preference assessment was conducted after the comparison to determine whether a preference for one of the arrangements emerged. All participants produced a higher rate of responding in the accumulated schedule of reinforcement.
Spam profiles detection on social networks using computational intelligence methods: The effect of the lingual context
Authors: Al-Zoubi Ala’ M , Alqatawna Ja’far , Faris Hossam , Hassonah Mohammad A
Published: August 2019

In online social networks, spam profiles represent one of the most serious security threats over the Internet; if they do not stop producing bad advertisements, they can be exploited by criminals for various purposes. This article addresses the nature and the characteristics of spam profiles in a social network like Twitter to improve spam detection, based on a number of publicly available language-independent features. In order to investigate the effectiveness of these features in spam detection, four datasets are extracted for four different language contexts (i.e. Arabic, English, Korean and Spanish), and a fifth is formed by combining them all. We conduct our experiments using a set of five well-known classification algorithms in spam detection field, k-Nearest Neighbours ( k-NN), Random Forest (RF), Naive Bayes (NB), Decision Tree (DT) (J48) and Multilayer Perceptron (MLP) classifiers, along with five filter-based feature selection methods, namely, Information Gain, Chi-square, ReliefF, Correlation and Significance. The results show oscillating performance of each classifier across all datasets, but improved classification results with feature selection. In addition, detailed analysis and comparisons are carried out on two different levels: in the first level, we compare the selected features’ importance among the feature selection methods, whereas in the second level, we observe the relations and the importance of the selected features across all datasets. The findings of this article lead to a better understanding of social spam and improving detection methods by considering the various important features resulting from the different lingual contexts.
The effect of hypothermia during cardiopulmonary bypass on three electro-encephalographic indices assessing analgesia and hypnosis during anesthesia: consciousness index, nociception index, and bispectral index
Authors: Wang Xiaohua , Zhang Jinfeng , Feng Kunpeng , Yang Yu , Qi Wenwei , Martinez-Vazquez Pablo , Zhao Guoguang , Wang Tianlong
Published: August 2019

The depth of anesthesia is commonly assessed in clinical practice by the patient’s clinical signs. However, during cardiopulmonary bypass and hypothermia, common symptoms of nociception such as tachycardia, hypertension, sweating, or movement have low sensitivity and specificity in the description of the patient nociception and hypnosis, in particular, detecting nociceptive stimuli. Better monitoring of the depth of analgesia during hypothermia under cardiopulmonary bypass will avoid underdosage or overdosage of analgesia, especially opioids. Induced hypothermia has a multifactorial effect on the level of analgesia and hypnosis. Thermoregulatory processes appear essential for the activation of analgesic mechanisms, ranging from a physiological strong negative affiliation between nerve conduction velocity and temperature, until significant repercussions on the pharmacological dynamics of the analgesic drugs, the latter decreasing the clearance rate with a subsequent increase in the effect-site concentrations. Under the hypothesis that deep hypothermia induces massive effects on the analgesia and hypnosis levels of the patient, we studied whether hypothermia effects were mirrored by several neuromonitoring indices: two hypnosis indices, consciousness index and bispectral index, and a novel nociception index designed to evaluate the analgesic depth. In this clinical trial, 39 patients were monitored during general anesthesia with coronary atherosclerosis cardiopathy who were elective for on-pump coronary artery bypass graft surgery under hypothermia. The changes and correlation between the consciousness index, bispectral index, and nociception index with respect to the temperature were compared in different timepoints at basic state, during cardiopulmonary bypass and after cardiopulmonary bypass. While the three neuromonitoring indices showed significant correlations with respect to the temperature, the nociception index and consciousness index showed the strongest sensitivities, indicating that these two indices could be an important means of intraoperative neuromonitoring during induced hypothermia under cardiopulmonary bypass.
Preoperative intra-aortic balloon pump inserted in acute myocardial infarction patients without cardiogenic shock undergoing surgical coronary revascularization
Authors: Yang Feng , Wang Liangshan , Hou Dengbang , Wang Jinhong , Wang Xiaomeng , Cui Yongchao , Hao Xing , Xing Zhichen , Jiang Chunjing , Du Zhongtao , Yang Xiaofang , Miao Na , Jiang Yu , Xing Jialin , Hou Xiaotong
Published: August 2019

Objectives:

The benefit of preoperative intra-aortic balloon pump implantation in high-risk cardiac surgery patients is still debated. The role of preoperative intra-aortic balloon pump insertion in acute myocardial infarction patients without cardiogenic shock undergoing off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting remains unknown. This study aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of the preoperative intra-aortic balloon pump insertion in those patients undergoing off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting.

Methods:

A total of 421 consecutive acute myocardial infarction patients without cardiogenic shock who underwent isolated off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting were enrolled in this retrospective observational propensity score–matched analysis study. Patients who received intra-aortic balloon pump before off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (the intra-aortic balloon pump group, n = 157) were compared with those who had not (control group, n = 264). The 30-day postoperative survival, postoperative complications, and postoperative hospital length of stay were compared between the two groups.

Results:

A total of 99 pairs of patients were matched. The preoperative intra-aortic balloon pump did not show a 30-day postoperative survival benefit compared with the control group (hazard ratio, 0.9; 95% confidence interval, 0.2-4.2; p = 0.92). Patients with preoperative intra-aortic balloon pump were more likely to have shorter postoperative lengths of stay (8 (6-11) days vs. 10 (6-15) days, p = 0.02) and decreased total days in the hospital (median days: 18.2 vs. 21.8, p = 0.02) compared to patients without balloon pumps.

Conclusion:

Preoperative intra-aortic balloon pump insertion in acute myocardial infarction patients without cardiogenic shock undergoing off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting improved convalescence as shown by significantly shorter postoperative lengths of hospital stay.
Rethinking gaming: The ethical work of optimization in web search engines
Authors: Ziewitz Malte
Published: August 2019

When measures come to matter, those measured find themselves in a precarious situation. On the one hand, they have a strong incentive to respond to measurement so as to score a favourable rating. On the other hand, too much of an adjustment runs the risk of being flagged and penalized by system operators as an attempt to ‘game the system’. Measures, the story goes, are most useful when they depict those measured as they usually are and not how they intend to be. In this article, I explore the practices and politics of optimization in the case of web search engines. Drawing on materials from ethnographic fieldwork with search engine optimization (SEO) consultants in the United Kingdom, I show how maximizing a website’s visibility in search results involves navigating the shifting boundaries between ‘good’ and ‘bad’ optimization. Specifically, I am interested in the ethical work performed as SEO consultants artfully arrange themselves to cope with moral ambiguities provoked and delegated by the operators of the search engine. Building on studies of ethics as a practical accomplishment, I suggest that the ethicality of optimization has itself become a site of governance and contestation. Studying such practices of ‘being ethical’ not only offers opportunities for rethinking popular tropes like ‘gaming the system’, but also draws attention to often-overlooked struggles for authority at the margins of contemporary ranking schemes.
Effectiveness of Seasonal Deer Advisories on Changeable Message Signs as a Deer Crash Mitigation Tool
Authors: Donaldson Bridget M. , Kweon Young-Jun
Published: August 2019

The Virginia Department of Transportation began posting deer advisory messages on changeable message signs (CMSs) along a 16.7-mi segment of Interstate 64 in October 2015. The posting of these messages during the peak of deer activity, from October to November from 5 p.m. to 9 a.m., was intended to raise driver awareness and reduce the high number of deer–vehicle collisions (DVCs) in the area. The effectiveness of deer advisory messages with regard to DVC reduction is not well known. Effectiveness in this study was determined by evaluating deer carcass removal data from three October and November deer advisory posting periods. Vehicle speed evaluations were also conducted to determine whether drivers reduced speed in response to the advisories. Carcass removals were lower when the deer advisories were posted than when they were not posted, and this difference was statistically significant. During the deer advisory postings, there were statistically significant speed reductions of up to 2.8 mph at four of the five vehicle sensor stations. Speed reductions were greater when deer advisories were posted during periods of lower traffic volumes. Seasonal deer advisory messages on an interstate appear to be an effective form of DVC mitigation. Posting seasonal deer advisories every other day on the five existing CMSs in this study’s project area is expected to save approximately $700,000 to $1.4 million over the service life of the CMSs.
STEM K-12 Outreach as the Root of Transportation Education: Experiences from the Railway Engineering Field
Authors: Dick C. Tyler , Lautala Pasi , Schlake Bryan W.
Published: August 2019

Demand for graduates with rail transportation expertise remains strong in North America, particularly in engineering and technical fields. Over the past decade, various activities by the American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-way Association and rail-focused University Transportation Centers have slowly re-established a railway engineering academic community. Railway courses are now offered at two dozen universities in the United States (U.S.), and, for the first time in decades, several universities offer specific degrees in railway engineering. Despite this progress, challenges remain, such as raising student awareness of rail industry career paths. Since most railway engineering courses are senior-level electives, many students are already committed to other engineering disciplines before they are exposed to railway concepts. To raise student interest in rail courses and satisfy industry demands for internships, students must be introduced to railway concepts before they decide on the direction of their studies. One approach to directing more rail-aware students into engineering programs is rail-themed outreach to K-12 students. Railways still hold a fascination for many young people as complex, multidisciplinary systems, and numerous interesting science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) concepts can be demonstrated through the lens of railway transportation. Interactive rail-themed classroom activities can illustrate STEM topics while highlighting rail career opportunities and reinforcing railway transportation. This paper reviews rail-themed K-12 STEM outreach activities being undertaken by universities and the strong partnerships between industry and academia required to grow future generations of railway professionals.
Performance evaluation of HDPE/MWCNT and HDPE/kenaf composites
Authors: Pundhir Nayan , Zafar Sunny , Pathak Himanshu
Published: August 2019

The present work deals with the microwave-assisted compression moulding of high-density polyethylene (HDPE)-based composites. In the present work, 20 wt% of reinforcement in the form of kenaf and multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) was used to fabricate HDPE/kenaf and HDPE/MWCNT polymer composites. The mechanical characterizations of the microwave-processed composites were carried out in terms of uniaxial tensile test with different strain rate, multistep stress relaxation, flexural and impact test. The uniaxial tensile test revealed that the tensile modulus of microwave-processed four-layered HDPE/kenaf polymer composite was 35.2% higher than that of HDPE/MWCNT polymer composite. The HDPE/MWCNT polymer composite showed a minimum of 1.25 GPa and a maximum of 4.7 GPa of elastic modulus when tested at different strain rate. The impact energy absorbed by the HDPE/kenaf polymer composite (1.055 J) was 81.12% higher than the HDPE/MWCNT polymer composite (0.582 J).
The Policies of Social Innovation: A Cross-National Analysis
Authors: Krlev Gorgi , Einarsson Torbjörn , Wijkström Filip , Heyer Lea , Mildenberger Georg
Published: August 2019

This article deals with the policy discourse on social innovation at the European Union (EU) level as well as across nine European countries. We perform an exploratory analysis of relevant policy documents focusing on articulated policy authority, suggested actors, and key outcomes of social innovation. We also conduct an explanatory testing of the applicability of the varieties of capitalism as a traditional innovation classification system to social innovation. We find that the policy discourse across Europe lacks systemization and that EU agendas are only incompletely replicated at the individual country level. We also find that social innovation policies largely defy the principles governing traditional innovation policy regimes, which necessitates new or revised classification frames.
Effects of process combinations of milling, grinding, and polishing on the surface integrity and fatigue life of GH4169 components
Authors: Quan Fang , Chen Zhitong , Li Qiantong , Gao Shimin
Published: August 2019

The nickel-based superalloy GH4169 is widely applied in the aviation industry due to its outstanding mechanical properties. However, many blades of GH4169 are still produced by milling and manual polishing, which is costly and unreliable. In this article, GH4169 superalloy components manufactured with combination processes of milling, grinding, and polishing were comparatively studied involving surface integrity and fatigue performance. Test results indicate that the final polishing is the most dominant process that influences the high-cycle fatigue life of GH4169 components. Samples produced via cubic boron nitride grinding and numerical control polishing with a diamond-rubber wheel exhibit fatigue limits of 150 MPa higher than the milled and manually polished samples. Cubic boron nitride grinding induces a considerable compressive residual stress profile with a magnitude of -930 MPa and a depth of 200 μm. Milling induces a typical “hook” residual stress profile with 318 MPa at the surface. Polishing affects the machined surface by two ways, the removal effect and the squeezing effect. The squeezing effect induces a shallow compressive residual stress with approximately −1000 MPa, therefore improves the surface condition. However, inevitable omissions, scratches, texture disorders, and knock marks in hand-polishing are the main causes of the unstable high-cycle fatigue life of hand-polished components.
Multimaterial printing and characterization for mechanical and surface properties of functionally graded prototype
Authors: Kumar Sudhir , Singh Rupinder , Singh TP , Batish Ajay
Published: August 2019

In this work, an effort has been made for multimaterial three-dimensional printing of functionally graded prototypes of polylactic acid matrix (tensile specimens as per ASTM D638 type IV) followed by characterization of mechanical and surface properties. The work is an extension of previous reported studies on twin-screw extrusion process for the preparation of multimaterial wires as feedstock filaments in possible three-dimensional printing applications. The results of the study suggest that the highest peak strength (46.28 MPa) and break strength (41.65 MPa) was obtained for multimaterial three-dimensional printed samples at infill density 100%, infill angle 45°, and infill speed of 90 mm/s on commercial open source fused deposition modeling setup. Further surface hardness measurements performed on two extreme surfaces (top surface comprising magnetite (Fe3O4)-reinforced polylactic acid and bottom with polylactic acid without any reinforcement) revealed that the hardness for the bottom layer was more than the hardness for the top layer. From fractured surface analysis (using photomicrographs), it has been observed that the three-dimensional printed samples with low infill density resulted into more void formation due to which the performance while mechanical testing was poor in comparison to samples printed with higher infill density. The results are also supported by rendered images of photomicrographs, which revealed that high roughness value of samples printed with low infill density was also one of the reasons for poor mechanical performance of multimaterial three-dimensional printed functionally graded prototypes.
Language of the Goddess in Balkan Women’s Circle Dance
Authors: Shannon Laura
Published: August 2019

The author narrates her journey to women’s circle dances of the Balkans, and explores how they incorporate prehistoric signs which Marija Gimbutas called ‘the language of the Goddess’. These symbolic images appear in archaeological artefacts, textile motifs, song words, and dance patterns, and have been passed down for thousands of years in nonverbal ways. The interdisciplinary approach of archaeomythology suggests that the images may carry ideas and values from the Neolithic cultures in which these dances are said to have their roots. Women’s ritual dances affirm the Old European values which honoured the Goddess, the mother principle, and the cycles of life, and offer an extraordinary oasis of women’s empowerment, even within patriarchal culture, indicating that the dances most likely originate in pre-patriarchal egalitarian matriarchy. For women today, even outside the Balkans, these women’s ritual dances offer insight and meaning through an embodied experience of the values of the Goddess.
Plato’s Creative Imagination: (Re)Membering the Chora(l) Love that We Are
Authors: Lynch-Lawler Cheryl
Published: August 2019

The Platonic chora, as the third, intermediating term, has been left in a state of virtual dereliction in the West. Its ternary logic transmutes oppositional logics of binarity, including the oppositions of interior and exterior, psyche and cosmos, human and divine. In this article I (psycho)analyse the mytho-philosophical trajectory of the chora from Plato’s Timaeus, and Diotimaic love found in Plato’s Symposium. I argue that both the disruptive force of Diotimaic love, and the subversive chora with its ‘bastard reasoning’1 are indicative of Plato’s efforts to resolve an internalized conflict which mirrored a larger conflict found in his cultural epoch, a time in which abstracted self-consciousness was on the horizon and chthonic-participatory consciousness was receding. In (re)membering the chora I find a fecund space-time, an enabling field, for human participatory becoming-with the cosmos.
The Impact of Behavioural Finance on Investment Decision-making: A Study of Selected Investment Banks in Nigeria
Authors: Ogunlusi Olubunmi Edward , Obademi Olalekan
Published: August 2019

In this study, the impact of behavioural finance on investment decision-making using a selected investment banks was investigated. A total of 200 questionnaire items were administered to the respondents of the four surveyed investment banks including Afrinvest West Africa Limited, Meristem Securities, Vetiva Capital and ARM Nigeria Limited, out of which 180 questionnaire items representing 90 per cent were retrieved. The data were analyzed using tables, percentages, correlation and multiple regression analysis. The overall empirical results provided evidence of a positive impact between behavioural finance and investment decision, supporting previous research and contributing to generalization. The other findings of the research are thus: there is a significant relationship between heuristics and individual investment decision; there is a significant relationship between prospect theory and individual investment decision; and lastly there is a strong and negative relationship between heuristics and investment decision. Similarly, the relationship between prospect theory and investment decision is negative and strong. Against the backdrop of the aforementioned findings and conclusion, the following recommendations are proposed to both the institutional and individual investors: investors should be enlightened on the fact that there are many behavioural factors which can affect their investment decision-making process and they should be made aware of these factors including heuristics and prospect theory.
Conceptualizing University Education Study Abroad Programs Using a Mutualistic Process
Authors: Johnson Tara , Hains Kristina , Hains Bryan , Salazar Janela
Published: August 2019

As we continue to develop into a more globalized society, it is an expectation that students in higher education become global citizens. While the literature supports the notion that students positively benefit from international education experiences, little research has been done to determine what role the community plays, or what effects the study abroad experience has on the community in which the student population is engaged. This study introduces an innovative conceptual framework that overlays the biological concept of symbiosis on the international education experience. This unique conceptual framework shines a light on the study abroad experience from the community’s perspective, as well as illustrating positive and negative impacts of student interaction within the local community. The results indicate that not only is there a role for communities but also communities need to be included in the planning and creation of these experiences, ultimately leading to more mutually beneficial outcomes. Ideally, these findings could be used by educators to capture the community voice to create more mutualistic programs in study abroad.
Factors Influencing the Health and Safety of Temporary Foreign Workers in Skilled and Low-Skilled Occupations in Canada
Authors: Cedillo Leonor , Lippel Katherine , Nakache Delphine
Published: August 2019

This article reports on a study of occupational health and safety (OHS) challenges for temporary foreign workers (TFWs) in low- and high-skilled occupations, based on twenty-two cases drawn from a broader study in three Canadian provinces. Interviewees in construction, meat processing, hospitality, and fast food reported concerns regarding working conditions and OHS issues. They include precarious migration status affecting voice; contrasting access to social support; and mechanisms undermining regulatory effectiveness. Sources of vulnerability include closed work permits (making workers dependent on a single employer for job security and family reunification); ineffective means to ensure contractual compliance; and TFW invisibility attributable to their dispersal throughout the labor market. Violations include increased workload without an increase in pay and non-compliance with OHS and contractual rules without oversight. Positive and negative practices are discussed. Recommendations include improving migration security to preserve worker voice and facilitating communication between immigration and OHS authorities.
“At the End We Feel Forgotten”: Needs, Concerns, and Advice from Blogs of Dementia Family Caregivers
Authors: McLennon Susan M. , Davis Altheria , Covington Sarah , Anderson Joel G.
Published: August 2019

Illness blogs have been used by many individuals to describe their experiences, share knowledge, and gather support. The purpose of this study was to identify needs, concerns, and advice from the blogs of caregivers caring for a person with dementia at the end of life (EOL). A qualitative thematic analysis was performed of 192 blog postings from six dementia family caregivers during the EOL. A Google search using a systematic identification method was followed. Caregivers were females caring for mothers ( n = 5) and husbands ( n = 1). Themes varied by EOL stage within the contextual environment of Grief/Loss, Family, and Spirituality. Pre-death themes were Care Transitions and Quality; dying were Physical and Emotional Aspects; and post-death were Relief and Remembering. Four additional themes transitioned across stages: Decision-Making, Health Care Providers, Advice, and Caregiver Support. Findings suggest caregiver needs, concerns, and advice vary by EOL stage. Implications for tailored interventions should be considered.
Diversity Management: A Critical Review and Agenda for the Future
Authors: Köllen Thomas
Published: August 2019

Although a widespread management approach, diversity management is far from being a well-defined and unambiguous one. This article outlines how this management practice emerged, and how it is enacted, and it identifies and critically discusses the two crucial areas of dissent or ambivalence within the diversity management discourse: first, the dimensionality of diversity management, and second, its legitimacy. The first issue addresses the prioritization of certain dimensions, the difficulty of clearly demarcating one dimension from another, and the unequal consideration of specific manifestations of each dimension. Taking into account the fact that everyone embodies at least one manifestation of every dimension of diversity, the aspect of intersectionality also belongs to the dimensionality of diversity. The legitimacy issue includes legitimate starting points, operating ranges, and desired outcomes of diversity management practices. The article concludes by looking toward possible future directions in diversity management research and diversity management practice.
Novel Investigation of the Deep Band of the Lateral Plantar Aponeurosis and Its Relationship With the Lateral Plantar Nerve
Authors: Beck Cameron M. , Dickerson Austin R. , Kadado Kevin J. , Cohen Zachary A. , Blair Somer E. , Motley Travis A. , Holcomb Jenna C. , Fisher Cara L.
Published: August 2019

Background:

We describe a thick fascial band arising from the medial aspect of the lateral plantar aponeurosis diving deep into the forefoot crossing over a branch of the lateral plantar nerve. Because a review of current literature resulted in limited and outdated sources, we sought to first determine the frequency of this fascial band and the location where it crosses the lateral plantar nerve and, second, discuss the clinical applications these anatomical findings could have.

Methods:

50 pairs of cadaveric feet (n = 100) were dissected to investigate for presence of the fascial band and its interaction with the lateral plantar nerve. Images were taken of each foot with the fascial band. ImageJ was used to take 2 measurements assessing the relationship of the tuberosity of the base of the fifth metatarsal to where the nerve crossed deep to the fascial band.

Results:

Overall, 38% of the feet possessed the fascial band. It was found unilaterally in 10 pairs and bilaterally in 14 pairs. On average, the point at which the lateral plantar nerve passed deep to the fascial band was 2.0 cm medial and 1.7 cm anterior to the tuberosity of the base of the fifth metatarsal.

Conclusion:

When present, the deep band of the lateral plantar aponeurosis (PA) was consistently found to be crossing the lateral plantar nerve. The discovery of the location where this most commonly occurs has not been previously reported and adds an interesting dimension that elevates an anatomical study to one that has clinical potential.

Clinical Relevance:

The established target zone gives a precise location for where the relationship between the deep band of the lateral PA and the lateral plantar nerve exists when evaluating the foot. The target zone provides a potential springboard for future investigations concerning said relationship clinically.