bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new species of the genus Trichromothrips (Thysanoptera, Thripidae) from bamboo in Thailand, Malaysia and Vietnam
Authors: MASUMOTO MASAMI , OKAJIMA SHÛJI
Published: March 2019

Trichromothrips dorsalis sp. n. is described from bamboo in Thailand, Malaysia and Vietnam. This new species is similar to T. alis Bhatti from India, but is distinguished by having large median dark areas on abdominal tergites III–VII. This is the first record of this genus from Thailand and Vietnam.
A new genus and species of Saccharosydnini (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Delphacidae) from Argentina
Authors: BATIZ MARÍA F. ROSSI , DE REMES LENICOV ANA M. M.
Published: March 2019

One new delphacid genus and species, Lacertina australis Remes Lenicov & Rossi Batiz, gen. et sp. nov. (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Delphacidae: Saccharosydnini), is described and illustrated from Argentina with distribution data and host plants data provided. The new genus is easily distinguished from all other genera of the Neotropical Saccharosydnini by being strongly dorsoventrally flattened with a wide vertex projecting 2/3 of its length beyond the eyes and the presence of two submedian carinae on frons. An identification key to the genera of Saccharosydnini is provided.
On the identity of Anchorosternum sinense(Coleoptera: Hydrophilidae: Megasternini)
Authors: FIKÁČEK MARTIN , JIA FENGLONG
Published: March 2019

The monotypic genus Anchorosternum Jia, Wu, & Pu, 2001 (Hydrophilidae: Sphaeridiinae: Megasterinini) was originally described to accomodate A. sinense Jia, Wu & Pu, 2001, then known from four specimens collected in dung in  southern China. At the time of its description, Jia. et al. (2001) were unable to compare it with type material of other megasternine taxa occurring in the Oriental region, and as such the genus was largely diagnosed using the key to megasternine genera published by Hansen (1991), which also can be difficult to use without compartive material at hand. Moreover, all four type specimens were lost when the entomological collection of Sun Yat-sen University (formerly Zhongshan University) in Guangzhou, P. R. China, moved to a new building. Consequently, Anchorosternum remained the last megasternine genus with unclear status following the revision of recently described hydrophilid genera by Short & Fikáček (2011) and the revision of the Megasternini described previously by the Chinese authors by Jia et al. (2011).
Two new species and additional faunistic records of Cercyon Leach, 1817 from China (Coleoptera: Hydrophilidae)
Authors: JIA FENGLONG , LIANG ZULONG , RYNDEVICH S. K. , FIKÁČEK MARTIN
Published: March 2019

Two new species of Cercyon Leach, 1817 are described from China: Cercyon (s.str.) bellus sp. nov. from Hebei, Hubei, and Jiangxi Provinces, and Cercyon (s.str.) biltoni sp. nov. from Sichuan. Five species are recorded from China for the first time: Cercyon (Acycreon) punctiger Knisch, 1921, Cercyon (Paracercyon) analis Seidlitz, 1888, Cercyon (s.str.) algarum Sharp, 1973, Cercyon (s.str.) borealis Baranowski, 1985, Cercyon (s.str.) tristis (Illiger, 1801). Additional faunistic data from China are provided for Cercyon (s.str.) alinae Ryndevich, 2004, Cercyon (s.str.) inquinatus Wollaston, 1854, Cercyon (s.str.) kabaki Ryndevich, 2004, Cercyon (s.str.) olibrus Sharp, 1874, Cercyon (s.str.) ovillus Motschulsky, 1860, Cercyon (Clinocercyon) incretus dʼOrchymont, 1941, Cercyon (Clinocercyon) hanseni Jia, Fikáček & Ryndevich, 2011 and Cercyon (Paracercyon) honorabilis Shatrovskiy, 1999. A checklist to all species of the genus known from China is provided.
Megistophylla octobracchia Gao & Li, new species (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Melolonthinae) from Yunnan, China, and redescription of M. grandicornis (Fairmaire, 1891)
Authors: GAO CHUAN-BU , LI CHUN-LIN , FANG HONG
Published: March 2019

A new species of the genus Megistophylla Burmeister, 1855 (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Melolonthinae) from Yunnan Province, China is described and illustrated: Megistophylla octobracchia Gao & Li, new species. Megistophylla grandicornis (Fairmaire, 1891) is redescribed and illustrated with mouthparts and male genitalia for the first time. Megistophylla grandicornis is newly recorded for Fujian Province, China. [Megistophylla octobracchia Gao & Li, new species, LSID: urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act:C6D8B7D8-F81B-4E26-AEDA-90576F08B303]
Estimating Turbulence Kinetic Energy Dissipation Rates in the Numerically Simulated Stratocumulus Cloud-Top Mixing Layer: Evaluation of Different Methods
Authors: Akinlabi Emmanuel O. , Wacławczyk Marta , Mellado Juan Pedro , Malinowski Szymon P.
Published: March 2019

In this work, direct numerical simulation (DNS) of the stratocumulus cloud-top mixing layer is used to test various approaches to estimate the turbulence kinetic energy (TKE) dissipation rate ε from one-dimensional (1D) intersections that resemble experimental series. Results of these estimates are compared with “true” (DNS) values of ε in buoyant and inhomogeneous atmospheric flows. We focus on recently proposed methods of the TKE dissipation-rate retrievals based on zero crossings and recovering the missing part of the spectrum. These methods are tested on fully resolved turbulence fields and compared to standard retrievals from power spectra and structure functions. Anisotropy of turbulence due to buoyancy is shown to influence retrievals based on the vertical velocity component. TKE dissipation-rate estimates from the number of crossings correspond well to spectral estimates. The method based on the recovery of the missing part of the spectrum works best for Pope’s model of the dissipation spectrum and is sensitive to external intermittency. This allows for characterization of external intermittency by the Taylor-to-Liepmann scale ratio. Further improvements of this method are possible when the variance of the velocity derivative is used instead of the number of zero crossings per unit length. In conclusion, the new methods of TKE dissipation-rate retrieval from 1D series provide a valuable complement to standard approaches.
The Universality of the Normalized Vertical Velocity Variance in Contrast to the Horizontal Velocity Variance in the Convective Boundary Layer
Authors: Zhou Bowen , Sun Shiwei , Sun Jianning , Zhu Kefeng
Published: March 2019

The vertical turbulent velocity variance normalized by the convective velocity squared as a function of the boundary layer depth–normalized height [i.e., ] in the convective boundary layer (CBL) over a homogeneous surface exhibits a near-universal profile, as demonstrated by field observations, laboratory experiments, and numerical simulations. The profile holds over a wide CBL stability range set by the friction velocity, CBL depth, and surface heating. In contrast, the normalized horizontal turbulent velocity variance increases monotonically with decreasing stability. This study investigates the independence of the profile to changes in CBL stability, or more precisely, wind shear. Large-eddy simulations of several convective and neutral cases are performed by varying surface heating and geostrophic winds. Analysis of the turbulent kinetic energy budgets reveals that the conversion term between and depends almost entirely on buoyancy. This explains why does not vary with shear, which is a source to only. Further analysis through rotational and divergent decomposition suggests that the near-universal profile of is fundamentally related to the dynamics and interactions of local and nonlocal CBL turbulence. Specifically, the preferential interactions between local wavenumbers and the downscale energy cascade of CBL turbulence offer plausible explanations to the universal profile of .
Decomposing Mean Sea Level Rise in a Semi-Enclosed Basin, the Baltic Sea
Authors: Gräwe Ulf , Klingbeil Knut , Kelln Jessica , Dangendorf Sönke
Published: March 2019

We analyzed changes in mean sea level (MSL) for the period 1950–2015 using a regional ocean model for the Baltic Sea. Sensitivity experiments allowed us to separate external from local drivers and to investigate individual forcing agents triggering basin-internal spatial variations. The model reveals a basin-average MSL rise (MSLR) of 2.08 ± 0.49 mm yr−1, a value that is slightly larger than the simultaneous global average of 1.63 ± 0.32 mm yr−1. This MSLR is, however, spatially highly nonuniform with lower than average increases in the southwestern part (1.71 ± 0.51 mm yr−1) and higher than average rates in the northeastern parts (2.34 ± 1.05 mm yr−1). While 75% of the basin-average MSL externally enters the Baltic basin as a mass signal from the adjacent North Sea, intensified westerly winds and a poleward shift of low pressure systems explain the majority of the spatial variations in the rates. Minor contributions stem from local changes in baroclinicity leading to a basin-internal redistribution of water masses. An observed increase in local ocean temperature further adds to the total basinwide MSLR through thermal expansion but has little effect on the spatial pattern. To test the robustness of these results, we further assessed the sensitivity to six different atmospheric surface forcing reanalysis products over their common period from 1980 to 2005. The ensemble runs indicated that there are significant differences between individual ensemble members increasing the total trend uncertainty for the basin average by 0.22 mm yr−1 (95% confidence intervals). Locally the uncertainty varies from 0.05 mm yr−1 in the central part to up to 0.4 mm yr−1 along the coasts.
Low-Income Black Mothers Parenting Adolescents in the Mass Incarceration Era: The Long Reach of Criminalization
Authors: Elliott Sinikka , Reid Megan
Published: March 2019

Punitive and disciplinary forms of governance disproportionately target low-income Black Americans for surveillance and punishment, and research finds far-reaching consequences of such criminalization. Drawing on in-depth interviews with 46 low-income Black mothers of adolescents in urban neighborhoods, this article advances understanding of the long reach of criminalization by examining the intersection of two related areas of inquiry: the criminalization of Black youth and the institutional scrutiny and punitive treatment of Black mothers. Findings demonstrate that poor Black mothers calibrate their parenting strategies not only to fears that their children will be criminalized by mainstream institutions and the police, but also to concerns that they themselves will be criminalized as bad mothers who could lose their parenting rights. We develop the concept of “family criminalization” to explain the intertwining of Black mothers’ and children’s vulnerability to institutional surveillance and punishment. We argue that to fully grasp the causes and consequences of mass incarceration and its disproportionate impact on Black youth and adults, sociologists must be attuned to family dynamics and linkages as important to how criminalization unfolds in the lives of Black Americans.
Path Dependence in European Development: Medieval Politics, Conflict, and State Building
Authors: Acharya Avidit , Lee Alexander
Published: March 2019

During the Middle Ages, most European polities operated under a norm that gave only the close male relatives of a monarch a privileged place in the order of succession. When no such heirs were available, succession disputes were more likely, with distant relatives and female(-line) heirs laying competing claims to the throne. These disputes often produced conflicts that destroyed existing institutions and harmed subsequent economic development. A shortage of male heirs to a European monarchy in the Middle Ages could thus have harmful effects on the development trajectories of regions ruled by that monarchy. We provide evidence for this by showing that regions that were more likely to have a shortage of male heirs are today poorer than other regions. Our finding highlights the importance of the medieval period in European development and shows how small shocks can work in combination with institutions and norms in shaping long-run development paths.
Evading the Patronage Trap: Organizational Capacity and Demand Making in Mexico
Authors: Palmer-Rubin Brian
Published: March 2019

When do organizations broadly represent the interests of their economic sectors and when do they narrowly represent the interests of members? This article investigates how agricultural and small-business organizations in Mexico make demands for programmatic policies or patronage benefits. Contrary to explanations based on the class of members, I show that the source of organizational capacity shapes demand-making strategies. Organizations that generate selective benefits internally are able to engage in programmatic policies that shape sectoral competitiveness, whereas organizations that fail to solve membership challenges internally are vulnerable to the patronage trap, a self-reproducing cycle wherein they become specialized in demand making for discretionary private goods. I generate this argument through process tracing of two agricultural organizations in Mexico. Analysis of an original survey of economic interest organizations provides broader evidence that organizational capacity is a better predictor of policy demands than social class.
Effects of Visually Induced Motion Sickness on Emergency Braking Reaction Times in a Driving Simulator
Authors: Reinhard René , Tutulmaz Ender , Rutrecht Hans M. , Hengstenberg Patricia , Geissler Britta , Hecht Heiko , Muttray Axel
Published: March 2019

Objective:

The study explores associations of visually induced motion sickness (VIMS) with emergency braking reaction times (RTs) in driving simulator studies. It examines the effects over the progression of multiple simulated drives.

Background:

Driving simulator usage has many advantages for RT studies; however, if it induces VIMS, the observed driving behavior might deviate from real-world driving, potentially masking or skewing results. Possible effects of VIMS on RT have long been entertained, but the progression of VIMS across simulated drives has so far not been sufficiently considered.

Method:

Twenty-eight adults completed six drives on 2 days in a fixed-base driving simulator. At five points during each drive, pedestrians entered the road, necessitating emergency braking maneuvers. VIMS severity was assessed every minute using the 20-point Fast Motion Sickness Scale. The progression of VIMS was considered in mixed model analyses.

Results:

RT predictions were improved by considering VIMS development over time. Here, the relationship of VIMS and RT differed across days and drives. Increases in VIMS symptom severity predicted more prolonged RT after repeated drives on a given day and earlier within each drive.

Conclusion:

The assessment of VIMS in RT studies can be beneficial. In this context, VIMS measurements in close temporal proximity to the behaviors under study are promising and offer insights into VIMS and its consequences, which are not readily obtainable through questionnaires.

Application:

Driving simulator–based RT studies should consider cumulative effects of VIMS on performance. Measurement and analysis strategies that consider the time-varying nature of VIMS are recommended.
The End of Life Within Social Work Literature: A Conceptual Review
Authors: Holland Margaret M. , Prost Stephanie Grace
Published: March 2019

The current conceptual review sought to identify and describe how the end of life was conceptualized and operationalized in top-ranking, peer-reviewed social work journals considering the highly individualized and multidimensional experience of dying put forth by modern scholars and social work practitioners. An iterative content analysis of included articles ( N = 103) revealed six themes within reported definitions and four themes within eligibility criteria. Definitions ( n = 66) related to treatment responsiveness, the death process, dying, prognosis, admission to specific services, and old age. Eligibility criteria ( n = 18) related to proxy assessment, diagnosis, prognosis, and functional ability assessments. Over one-third of included articles did not define what was meant by the end of life (36%; n = 37) and the majority did not include eligibility criteria (83%; n = 85). In conclusion, the complex lived experience of dying was not manifest within included articles raising important implications for research (e.g., measurement, meta-analysis) and social work practice (viz. service eligibility).
Use of Flavored E-Cigarettes Among Adolescents, Young Adults, and Older Adults: Findings From the Population Assessment for Tobacco and Health Study
Authors: Soneji Samir S. , Knutzen Kristin E. , Villanti Andrea C.
Published: March 2019

Objectives:

The use of flavored electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) is common among e-cigarette users, but little is known about the potential harms of flavorings, the extent to which the concurrent use of multiple flavor types occurs, and the correlates of flavor type use. The objective of this study was to assess the types of e-cigarette flavors used by adolescent (aged 12-17), young adult (aged 18-24), and older adult (aged ≥25) e-cigarette users.

Methods:

We assessed the prevalence of flavored e-cigarette use within the past month by flavor types and concurrent use of multiple flavor types among past-month e-cigarette users sampled during Wave 2 (2014-2015) of the Population Assessment for Tobacco and Health Study among 414 adolescents, 961 young adults, and 1711 older adults. We used weighted logistic regression models for the use of fruit-, candy-, mint/menthol–, tobacco-, or other-flavored e-cigarettes and concurrent use of multiple flavor types. Covariates included demographic characteristics, e-cigarette use frequency, cigarette smoking status, current use of other tobacco products, and reasons for e-cigarette use.

Results:

The leading e-cigarette flavor types among adolescents were fruit, candy, and other flavors; among young adults were fruit, candy, and mint/menthol; and among older adults were tobacco or other flavors, fruit, and mint/menthol. Compared with older adults, adolescents and young adults were more likely to use fruit-flavored e-cigarettes (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 3.35; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.56-4.38; and aOR = 2.31; 95% CI, 1.77-3.01, respectively) and candy-flavored e-cigarettes (aOR = 3.81; 95% CI, 2.74-5.28; and aOR = 2.95; 95% CI, 2.29-3.80, respectively) and concurrently use multiple flavor types (aOR = 4.58; 95% CI, 3.39-6.17; and aOR = 2.28; 95% CI, 1.78-2.91, respectively).

Conclusions:

Regulation of sweet e-cigarette flavors (eg, fruit and candy) may help reduce the use of e-cigarettes among young persons without substantially burdening adult e-cigarette users.
Housing Price and Population Growth across China: The Role of Housing Supply
Authors: Wang Hongbo , Rickman Dan
Published: March 2019

In this article, we employ a spatial equilibrium growth model to empirically examine the role of housing supply growth in differences in housing price and population growth across the provinces, autonomous regions, municipalities, and major cities of mainland China for 2002–2015. Areas in the East, particularly Shanghai, Ningbo, Qingdao, and Xiamen, are found to have had the least growth in housing supply, while autonomous regions and areas in the Southwest and Northeast had the most. The differences in housing supply growth are shown not only to have greatly influenced relative housing price growth, but they also greatly influenced relative regional population growth, suggesting that land and housing supply policies are a critical component of regional growth in China.
Outcomes of Hypoglossal Nerve Upper Airway Stimulation among Patients with Isolated Retropalatal Collapse
Authors: Mahmoud Ahmad F. , Thaler Erica R.
Published: March 2019

Objective

To examine whether patients with isolated retropalatal collapse perform as well as others following implantation with an upper airway stimulation (UAS) device.

Study Design

Retrospective review.

Setting

Single‐institution tertiary academic care medical center.

Subjects and Methods

Following drug‐induced sleep endoscopy, subjects who met inclusion criteria for implantation with a UAS device received an implant per industry standard. Subjects with isolated retropalatal collapse were compared with those having other patterns of collapse. Outcome measures included apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI) and nadir oxyhemoglobin saturation (NOS).

Results

Ninety‐one patients were implanted during the duration of the study, and 82 met inclusion criteria for analysis. Twenty‐five had isolated retropalatal collapse, while the remaining 57 had other patterns of collapse on drug‐induced sleep endoscopy. For all patients, mean preoperative AHI and NOS were 38.7 (95% CI, 35.0‐42.4) and 78% (95% CI, 75%‐80%), respectively; these improved postoperatively to 4.5 (95% CI, 2.3‐6.6) and 91% (95% CI, 91%‐92%). There was no significant preoperative difference between groups with regard to demographics, AHI, or NOS. Group comparison showed postoperative AHI to be 5.7 (95% CI, 0.57‐10.8) for patients with isolated retropalatal collapse and 3.9 (95% CI, 1.7‐6.1) for other patients (P =. 888). Postoperative NOS was 92% (95% CI, 90%‐94%) among patients with isolated retropalatal collapse and 91% (95% CI, 90%‐92%) for others (P =. 402).

Conclusions

All patients showed significant improvement following implantation with UAS. Patients with isolated retropalatal collapse showed similar improvement to other types of collapse with regard to AHI and NOS.
Assigning Bus Delay and Predicting Travel Times using Automated Vehicle Location Data
Authors: Coghlan Christy , Dabiri Sina , Mayer Brian , Wagner Mitch , Williamson Eric , Eichler Michael , Ramakrishnan Naren
Published: March 2019

The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) operates 1,250 buses on 168 different routes between 10,600 bus stops to support around 370,000 passengers each day. Utilizing sensors on vehicles and analyzing their location and movements throughout an hour, trip, or day can provide valuable information to a transit authority as well as to the users of a transit system. This amount of information can be overwhelming, but utilizing big data techniques can empower the data and the transit agency. First, this paper develops a methodology for assessing previous delays in the system by applying big data structure and statistical analysis to the data constantly collected by WMATA buses. This method of analysis also helps quantify the impact of potential transit system improvements. Second, the paper describes a model that uses the real-time data, that represents potential delays, to provide future passengers with more accurate arrival predictions despite delays. These analyses are powerful tools for agencies and planners to assess and improve transit service performance using big data analytics and real-time predictions.
Using Nature to Create the Figure Wood as Organic Medium
Authors: Carpenter Kim
Published: March 2019

One impulse from a vernal wood May teach more of man, Of moral evil and of good, Than all the ages can.
A Passionate Vision in Steel: The Art of Marco Cianfanelli
Authors: Shull Jodie A.
Published: March 2019

“There is no passion to be found in playing small—in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.” —Nelson Mandela
Gerard Mas: The Enigma of the Face
Authors: Mohn Katrina
Published: March 2019

“I've always … [talked] about the animality of the human being and the humanity of the animals. … I usually work with animals that have no representation in the history of art. … it's a way to recreate a kind of impossible ancient art.” (—Gerard Mas)
Beautiful Contradiction: The Concrete Sculpture of Christopher Smith
Authors: Shull Jodie A.
Published: March 2019

“I am a sculptor with the nude human figure as my primary subject.” —Chris Smith
Book review: Bimal Jalan, INDIA: Priorities for the Future
Authors: Balatchandirane G
Published: March 2019

Bimal Jalan, INDIA: Priorities for the Future. New Delhi: Penguin Viking, 2017, pp. 184, ₹499. ISBN: 978-0-670-08972-7 (Hardcover).
DLSM: A Theoretically Based Model to Help Families and Loved Ones’ Transition From Independent Living to Dependent Living Facilities
Authors: Koltz Rebecca L. , Koltz Daniel J.
Published: March 2019

Older adults and their families may encounter difficulties as they transition from independent living to a dependent living environment. The stress of daily coping and illness can disrupt the family life cycle. The authors have created a theoretically based model: the dependent living success model (DLSM) to assist family counselors when exploring this life transition. Specifically, the authors integrate four theories: successful aging theory, Elder’s life course perspective, Schlossberg’s transition theory, and Nolan’s senses framework to provide a model for how to work with aging adults and their families during the transition to dependent care. There is a dearth of literature to assist family counselors in conceptualizing this part of the life course. The DLSM intends to start the conversation with the older person and their family and provide some strategies and interventions to increase a more successful transition.
Dynamic analysis of viscoelastic tuned mass damper system under harmonic excitation
Authors: Dai Jun , Xu Zhao-Dong , Gai Pan-Pan
Published: March 2019

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the contribution of viscoelastic material (VEM) to the control performance of the viscoelastic tuned mass damper (VTMD). Firstly, the equivalent fractional derivation Kelvin model is used to describe the frequency dependence of viscoelasticity in VTMD, and an index is proposed to characterize the level of frequency dependence. Then the effects of the high loss factor of VEM and frequency dependence of viscoelasticity on the effectiveness and robustness of VTMD control are analyzed by numerical examples. At last, a design strategy for VTMD is proposed to select the type of VEM and optimize its stiffness contribution. The results show that the frequency dependence of shear storage modulus of VEM is beneficial to further reduce the dynamic response of the primary structure equipped with VTMD, and the loss factor of VEM determines the optimum frequency ratio and control effect of VTMD. Compared to the conventional tuned mass damper, VTMD has a better robustness for the positive error of the natural frequency of VTMD but has a worse robustness for the negative error. The frequency dependence of shear storage modulus of VEM is beneficial to the robustness of VTMD for both the positive and negative errors of the natural frequency of the primary structure. The VEM with a strong frequency dependence of shear storage modulus is the ideal VEM for VTMD, and the proposed design strategy can deal with the trade-off between the control effectiveness and control robustness of VTMD.
Positive Semiotics
Authors: Lomas Tim
Published: March 2019

Although semiotics has historically been a focus of interest in psychology, its impact over recent decades has been fairly muted. Moreover, no systematic efforts have been made to study and understand it from a positive perspective, that is, the way sign-systems are or can be “positive.” As such, this article introduces the notion of “positive semiotics,” a label for the disparate research and theorizing that is already underway across academia relating to this topic. The article draws on the work of Charles Sanders Peirce, particularly in terms of his triadic view of sign-systems as comprising a sign, an object, and an interpretant. The idea of positivity is then elucidated using the criterion of desirability, drawing on the work of James Pawelski. Attempts are also made to ascertain the nature of desirability, including normative forms (clarified here using the conceptual triad of goodness, truth, and beauty) and nonnormative forms (understood as personal wants). The article then considers four key semiotic channels—discursive language, body language, symbols, and art—looking at selective examples of how positive semiotics might pertain to that channel. It is hoped the article will stimulate further interest in, and work on, a phenomenon that is of considerable importance to psychology and beyond.
The influence of foreign institutional investors, institutional directors, and the share pledge ratio of directors on financial performance of tourism firms
Authors: Yeh Chien Mu
Published: March 2019

Corporate governance is a critical component relevant to firm performance. In the tourism sector, corporate governance is an underexamined issue. The purpose of the current study is to bridge this gap by examining the influence of foreign institutional investors, institutional directors, and shares pledged by directors on tourism firms’ financial performance. Data are derived from listed tourism firms in Taiwan. Ordinary least square regressions and two-stage least square regressions are used to examine the hypotheses. Results show that the presence of foreign institutional investors and a low share pledge ratio of directors have significant effects on return on assets and Tobin’s Q. The presence of institutional directors has a positive effect on Tobin’s Q. Implications for owners, policy makers, and investors are discussed.
Control law design of hypersonic vehicles using the elastic surrogate model
Authors: Liu Yanbin , Tong Yanhui , Jin Feiteng
Published: March 2019

This paper presents a novel control design strategy for the hypersonic vehicle using the elastic surrogate model. First, the parametric model is established for the rigid mode of the hypersonic vehicle based on the engineering estimation and panel methods. Then, the beam surrogate model is applied to identify the elastic mode of the hypersonic vehicle, and the complete parametric model including the rigid and elastic modes is obtained accordingly. Afterward, the control-relevant model is acquired based on the Morris sensitivity analysis method. Furthermore, the control system using the surrogate model is proposed for the hypersonic vehicle to suppress elastic disturbances and maintain system stability. Finally, an illustrative example of the hypersonic vehicle is provided to verify the effectiveness of the presented methods.
Smart rule-based diesel engine control strategies by means of predictive driving information
Authors: Vagnoni Giovanni , Eisenbarth Markus , Andert Jakob , Sammito Giuseppe , Schaub Joschka , Reke Michael , Kiausch Michael
Published: March 2019

The increasing connectivity of future vehicles allows the prediction of the powertrain operational profiles. This technology will improve the transient control of the engine and its exhaust gas aftertreatment systems. This article describes the development of a rule-based algorithm for the air path control, which uses the knowledge of upcoming driving events to reduce especially [Formula: see text] and particulate (soot) emissions. In the first section of this article, the boosting and the lean [Formula: see text] trap systems of a diesel powertrain are investigated as relevant sub-systems for shorter prediction horizons, suitable for Car-to-X communication range. Reference control strategies, based on state-of-the-art engine control unit algorithms and suitable predictive control logics, are compared for the two sub-systems in a model in the loop simulation environment. The simulation driving cycles are based on Worldwide harmonized Light-duty Test Cycle and Real Driving Emissions regulations. Due to the shorter, and consequently more probable, prediction horizon and the demonstrated emission improvements, a dedicated rule-based algorithm for the air path control is developed and benchmarked in the Worldwide harmonized Light-duty Test Cycle as described in the second part of this article. Worldwide harmonized Light-duty Test Cycle test results show an improvement potential for engine-out soot and [Formula: see text] emissions of up to 5.2% and 1.2%, respectively, for the air path case and a reduction of the average fuel consumption in Real Driving Emissions of up to 1% for the lean NOx trap case. In addition, the developed rule-based algorithm allows the adjustment of the desired NOx–soot trade-off, while keeping the fuel consumption constant. The study concludes with brief recommendations for future research directions, as for example, the introduction of a prediction module for the estimation of the vehicle operational profile in the prediction horizon.
Three-year outcomes after carotid artery revascularization: Gender-related differences
Authors: Casana Renato , Malloggi Chiara , Tolva Valerio Stefano , Odero Jr Andrea , Bulbulia Richard , Halliday Alison , Silani Vincenzo , Parati Gianfranco
Published: March 2019

Objectives

Carotid artery stenosis is thought to cause up to 10% of ischemic strokes. Historically, carotid artery endarterectomy has shown a higher risk of perioperative adverse events for women. More recent trials reported conflicting results regarding the benefit of carotid artery endarterectomy and carotid artery stenting for men and women. The aim of the present retrospective study was to investigate the influence of gender on the short- (30 days) and long-term (3 years) outcomes of carotid artery endarterectomy and carotid artery stenting in a single centre.

Methods

From 2010 to 2017, 912 consecutive symptomatic and asymptomatic patients who underwent carotid artery endarterectomy (389, 42.7%) or carotid artery stenting (523, 57.3%) in a single institution had been evaluated to determine the influence of sex (540 men, 59.2%, vs. 372 women, 40.8%) on the outcomes after both revascularization procedures during three years of follow-up. The primary endpoint was the incidence of death, stroke, myocardial infarction, and restenosis in the short-term follow-up. The secondary endpoint was the incidence of death, stroke, myocardial infarction, and restenosis in the long-term follow-up.

Results

Mean clinical follow-up was 21.1 (16.1) months. Women had internal and common carotid artery diameters significantly smaller with respect to men. For peri-procedural outcomes, women undergoing carotid artery stenting had a higher risk of moderate (50–70%) restenosis (6 women, 2.9%, vs. 3 men, 1.0%). For long-term outcomes, women undergoing carotid artery endarterectomy had a higher rate of moderate restenosis (16 women, 16.3%, vs. 11 men, 7.6%). No significant differences in long-term outcomes were observed between men and women undergoing carotid artery stenting, even after stratification for baseline risk factors.

Conclusions

Contrary to previous reports, from this single-centre study, long-term risk of events seems to be higher in women who underwent carotid artery endarterectomy than in those who underwent carotid artery stenting, while fewer differences were observed in men.
An adaptive sliding mode actuator fault tolerant control scheme for octorotor system
Authors: Ejaz Fatima , Hamayun Mirza Tariq , Hussain Shariq , Ijaz Salman , Yang Shunkun , Shehzad Naeem , Rashid Aamir
Published: March 2019

In this article, an adaptive sliding mode control is used in the framework of fault tolerant control to mitigate the effects of actuator faults without requiring the actuator health information. Since unmanned aerial vehicles are being used in multiple fields such as military, surveillance, media, agriculture, communication and trading sector, therefore it is of vital importance to overcome the effects of actuator faults that can decline system performance and can even lead to some serious accidents. The proposed adaptive sliding mode control approach can handle actuator faults directly without requiring any faults information and adaptively adjusts controller gains to maintain acceptable level of performance. To validate the effectiveness of the proposed adaptive fault tolerant control scheme, it has been tested in simulations using non-linear Benchmark model of Octorotor system and its performance is compared with the optimal LQR control approach.
Comparison of acute ischemic stroke evaluation and the etiologic subtypes between university and nonuniversity hospitals in Isfahan, Iran
Authors: Khorvash Fariborz , Khalili Mabobeh , Rezvani Habibabadi Roya , Sarafzadegan Nizal , Givi Mahshid , Roohafza Hamid , Yadgarfar Gahsem , Dehghani Leila , Taheri Marzieh , Saadatnia Mohammad
Published: March 2019

Background and purpose

Performing a proper causative workup for ischemic stroke patients is essential as it guides the direction of primary and secondary preventions. We aim to investigate the etiological evaluation of these patients in university and nonuniversity hospitals.

Method

We enrolled subjects from the Persian Registry of Cardiovascular Disease–stroke. Stroke patients were categorized base on an etiological-based classification (Trial of Org 10172 in Acute Stroke Treatment or TOAST) into five groups. We also separated patients with ischemic stroke of undetermined etiology due to incomplete standard evaluation from ischemic stroke of undetermined etiology due to negative standard evaluation. The etiological subtypes and diagnostic evaluations were compared between the two hospital groups.

Result

Ischemic stroke of undetermined etiology was the most common subtype overall (43%). The prevalence of ischemic stroke of undetermined etiology (incomplete standard evaluation) was significantly higher in patients evaluated in nonuniversity hospitals versus university hospital (46.2% vs. 22.3%). Patients with ischemic stroke of undetermined etiology (negative standard evaluation) and large-artery atherosclerosis were significantly more prevalent in university hospitals (10.3% vs. 4.6% and 13.9% vs. 4.4%, respectively). All diagnostic workups were performed more significantly for university hospital patients. Patients with Ischemic stroke of undetermined etiology (negative standard evaluation). Patients were significantly younger (64.91 ± 14.44 vs. 71.42 ± 12.93) and had lower prevalence of risk factors such as hypertension (48.5% vs. 65.4%) and diabetes (19.4% vs. 33.1%) than patients in ischemic stroke of undetermined etiology (incomplete standard evaluation) subgroup. University hospital patients had better clinical outcomes in terms of mortality and degree of disability during one-year follow-up.

Conclusion

The high clinical burden of ischemic stroke of undetermined etiology especially in nonuniversity hospitals shows the rational for promoting ischemic stroke evaluation and providing specialized stroke centers for these hospitals in a developing country like Iran.
Understanding EFL pre-service teachers’ behavioral intentions to use cloud applications
Authors: Harmandaoğlu Baz Esra , Cephe Paşa Tevfik , Balçıkanlı Cem
Published: March 2019

The purpose of the present study is to investigate the behavioral intentions of Turkish English as a foreign language (EFL) pre-service teachers to use a cloud application in their future classes. Preliminary data were collected from 22 senior EFL pre-service teachers via a questionnaire, semi-structured interviews, and an observation form. Before the questionnaire was administered, the participants were trained on the use of Voicethread in language teaching for three weeks. At the end of the training, a Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology questionnaire was used to collect the data. Semi-structured interviews were designed to have a deeper understanding why pre-service teachers accepted or rejected the use of Voicethread in language teaching. In addition, the teaching demonstrations of the pre-service teachers were observed to see how they used Voicethread in the activities they designed and whether they could carry out an activity based on incorporating Voicethread. The findings indicate that pre-service teachers in this study do not seem to intend to use Voicethread in their future classes. Given some significant potential benefits for use of the tool, this paper then considers more effective approaches to engaging pre-service teachers in exploring and applying the benefits as well as negotiating any difficulties experienced in the use of Voicethread.
The potential usefulness of sputum cytology in the conclusive diagnosis of methotrexate-associated lymphoproliferative disorders: A case report
Authors: Mizuguchi Seiya , Mizutani Kenichi , Yamashita Manabu , Minato Hiroshi , Yamada Sohsuke
Published: March 2019

Background:

Methotrexate has been used as an anchor drug for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and is considered to be a cause of methotrexate-associated lymphoproliferative disorder. Spontaneous regression can occur after withdrawal of methotrexate and may be associated with Epstein–Barr virus positivity and non-diffuse large B cell lymphoma histological type. Methotrexate-associated lymphoproliferative disorders are often diagnosed pathologically by lung biopsy. To the best of our knowledge, there have been no studies on the cytological diagnosis of methotrexate-associated lymphoproliferative disorder using sputum smears.

Case:

A 70-year-old man, who was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis 13 years previously and who had been treated with methotrexate, presented shortness of breath and productive cough. Methotrexate-associated lymphoproliferative disorder was suspected as the sputum cytology showed many atypical lymphoid cells with hyperchromatic enlarged nuclei, foamy cytoplasm and distinct nucleoli. Chest computed tomography revealed multiple nodular shadows with interstitial pneumonia in the bilateral lower lung field. A lung biopsy specimen contained atypical lymphoid cells that were immunohistochemically positive for CD20 and MUM-1, and weakly positive for bcl-6, but negative for CD3 and CD10. There were no Epstein–Barr virus-infectious lymphoid cells by ISH-EBER. He was finally diagnosed with methotrexate-associated lymphoproliferative disorder (non-germinal center B-cell-like diffuse large B cell lymphoma histological type). Most of the nodules disappeared spontaneously following the withdrawal of methotrexate.

Discussion and conclusion:

A cytologically conclusive diagnosis of methotrexate-associated lymphoproliferative disorder may be reached using sputum smears and clinical information.
Neck movement during cervical transforaminal epidural injections and the position of the vertebral artery: an anatomical study
Authors: Altafulla Juan , Yilmaz Emre , Lachkar Stefan , Iwanaga Joe , Peacock Jacob , Litvack Zachary , Tubbs R Shane
Published: March 2019

Background

Cervical transforaminal epidural steroid injections (CTFESIs) are sometimes performed in patients with cervical radiculopathy secondary to nerve-root compression. Neck movements for patient positioning may include rotation, flexion, and extension. As physicians performing such procedures do not move the neck for fear of injuring the vertebral artery, we performed fluoroscopy and cadaveric dissection to analyze any movement of the vertebral artery during head movement and its relation to the foramina in the setting of CTFESI.

Purpose

To determine cervical rotational positioning for optimized vertebral artery location in the setting of cervical transforaminal epidural steroid injections.

Material and Methods

Four sides from two Caucasian whole cadavers (all fresh-frozen) were used. Using a guide wire and digital subtraction fluoroscopy, we evaluated the vertebral artery mimicking a CTFESI, then we removed the transverse processes and evaluated the vertebral artery by direct observation.

Results

After performing such maneuvers, no displacement of the vertebral artery was seen throughout its course from the C6 to the C2 intervertebral foramina. To our knowledge, this is the first anatomical observation of its kind that evaluates the position of the vertebral artery inside the foramina during movement of the neck.

Conclusion

Special caution should be given to the medial border of the intervertebral foramina when adjusting the target site and needle penetration for the injection. This is especially true for C6-C4 levels, whereas for the remaining upper vertebrae, the attention should be focused on the anterior aspect of the foramen. Since our study was centered on the vertebral artery, we do not discard the need for contrast injection and real-time digital subtraction fluoroscopy while performing the transforaminal epidural injection in order to prevent other vascular injuries.
Classroom Management Competencies for School Counselors: A Delphi Study
Authors: Runyan Helen , Grothaus Tim , Michel Rebecca E.
Published: March 2019

The school counseling core curriculum is an essential element of a comprehensive program. School counselors need to be proficient in classroom management to successfully implement this intervention, yet few recent empirical investigations of school counselors’ classroom management knowledge and skills exist. We conducted a Delphi study with school counseling classroom management experts to create a consensus list of competencies associated with effective classroom management for school counselors. We provide implications for school counseling stakeholders.
Relationship among Risk Factors for Nephrolithiasis, Cardiovascular Disease, and Ethnicity
Authors: Ramey Sandra L. , Franke Warren D. , Shelley Mack C.
Published: March 2019

This cross-sectional study determined the prevalence of nephrolithiasis and common cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors in a law enforcement officer (LEO) cohort and evaluated the relationship of nephrolithiasis with several CVD risk factors, including the possible effect of ethnicity. Self reported nephrolithiasis and CVD risk factors among currently employed male LEOs from nine states (n = 2,818) were compared to other men in the same states (n = 9,650). Of the LEOs, 6.2% (n = 174) self reported at least one kidney stone (range = 1 to 12, mean 2.3 6 2.1 stones). Twenty five percent of Native American LEOs (n = 7 of 28) self reported a history of stones. In LEOs with a history of nephrolithiasis, overweight defined as body mass index . 25 kg/m2 (odds ratio [OR] = 1.80, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.04, 3.11), hypercholesterolemia (OR = 1.53, 95% CI = 1.09, 2.15), and hypertension (OR = 1.46, 95% CI = 1.02, 2.11) were associated with the disease. These results suggest officers with common CVD risk factors are also at an increased risk for nephrolithiasis. Native American LEOs have a disproportionately higher prevalence of nephrolithiasis than do other ethnic groups.
Laboratory Workers and Musculoskeletal Disorders—Examining Ergonomic Risk Factors and Solutions
Authors: Andersen Erin
Published: March 2019

EK. has worked in the clinical laboratory of a large medical center for 14 years. Her duties include processing and testing specimens, and entering results into a computer. She uses a variety of equipment for these tasks, including a microscope, pipette, and cell counter. E.K. has noted numbness and tingling in both thumbs and index fingers for the past few years, which currently has become constant over recent months. She reports difficulty gripping objects and a loss of grip strength. Last week, she dropped an entire rack of test tubes. This prompted her supervisor to refer her to employee health for evaluation. During her visit, she is nonchalant about her symptoms, noting that everyone in her lab has lots of “aches and pains” and that “it's part of the job.” On examination, she has severe hypothenar atrophy, decreased range of motion of the thumb carpometacarpal joints bilaterally, decreased grip strength, and a loss of sensation to two point discrimination in a medial nerve distribution.