bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Additions to the revision of Dima Charpentier, 1825 (Coleoptera: Elateridae: Dimini) in the Balkan Peninsula, with the descriptions of five new species
Authors: MERTLIK JOSEF , NÉMETH TAMÁS , KUNDRATA ROBIN
Published: June 2018

Complementary revisionary information is provided for the click-beetle genus Dima Charpentier, 1825 in the Balkan Peninsula. Five species are described as new for science: Dima bialookii sp. nov. (Greece), D. blazeji sp. nov. (Albania), D. gazureki sp. nov. (Albania), D. timfristosensis sp. nov. (Greece), and D. tomorrensis sp. nov. (Albania). The male of D. hirtipennis Platia, 2011 is described for the first time. Dima etoliensis Platia, 2012 syn. nov. is a subjective junior synonym of D. evritaniensis Schimmel & Platia, 2008. New specimens and distributional data are reported for D. assingi Schimmel & Platia, 2008, D. dalmatina Küster, 1844, D. elateroides Charpentier, 1825, D. evritaniensis, D. florinensis Platia, 2012, D. hirtipennis, D. hladilorum Schimmel, 1987, D. lebenbaueri Schimmel & Platia, 2008, D. macedonica Schimmel, 1993, D. marvani Mertlik & Dusanek, 2006, D. neumanni Platia, 2013, D. olympica Meschnigg, 1934, D. parnonensis Schimmel & Platia, 2008, D. pecoudi Fleutiaux, 1944, D. pelikani Mertlik, Németh & Kundrata, 2017, D. pelionensis Mertlik, Németh & Kundrata, 2017, D. vailatii Schimmel & Platia, 2008, and Dima sp. cf. orientalis Mertlik, Németh & Kundrata, 2017. Morphological variability in D. hladilorum is discussed. Figures of habitus and main diagnostic features are provided for all new species, D. evritaniensis from Nerosirtis surroundings in Panetolikó Mts. (i.e., type locality of D. etoliensis syn. nov.), and for the male of D. hirtipennis. Additionally, we update the distribution maps for the genus Dima in the Balkans based on the new findings. Currently, 37 described species of Dima are known from the Balkan Peninsula. We discuss the morphological diagnostic characters for Dima species and call for the molecular phylogenetic study for this group.
Revision of Hellwigiella Szépligeti, 1905 (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae, Ophioninae), with revalidation of H. nigripennis Szépligeti, 1905
Authors: LIMA ALESSANDRO RODRIGUES
Published: June 2018

The taxonomic history of Hellwigiella Szépligeti is presented with comments. Ophion similis (Szépligeti, 1905) is diagnosed and illustrated, with the first record for Morocco. Hellwigiella is redescribed and illustrated, with comments on its differentiation from O. similis. A key to the two valid species, H. dichromoptera and H. nigripennis stat. rev., is provided.
Integrating Data Rescue into the Classroom
Authors: Ryan Ciara , Duffy Catriona , Broderick Ciaran , Thorne Peter W. , Curley Mary , Walsh Séamus , Daly Conor , Treanor Mairéad , Murphy Conor
Published: June 2018

Over much of the globe, the temporal extent of meteorological records is limited, yet a wealth of data remains in paper or image form in numerous archives. To date, little attention has been given to the role that students might play in efforts to rescue these data. Here we summarize an ambitious research-led, accredited teaching experiment in which undergraduate students successfully transcribed more than 1,300 station years of daily precipitation data and associated metadata across Ireland over the period 1860–1939. We explore i) the potential for integrating data rescue activities into the classroom, ii) the ability of students to produce reliable transcriptions and, iii) the learning outcomes for students. Data previously transcribed by Met Éireann (Ireland’s National Meteorological Service) were used as a benchmark against which it was ascertained that students were as accurate as the professionals. Details on the assignment, its planning and execution, and student-aids used are provided. The experience highlights the benefits that can accrue for data rescue through innovative collaboration between national meteorological services and academic institutions. At the same time, students have gained valuable learning outcomes and firsthand understanding of the processes that underpin data rescue and analysis. The success of the project demonstrates the potential to extend data rescue in the classroom to other universities, thus providing both an enriched learning experience for the students and a lasting legacy to the scientific community.
Comments on “The Gulf Stream Convergence Zone in the Time-Mean Winds”
Authors: Plougonven Riwal , Foussard Alexis , Lapeyre Guillaume
Published: June 2018

In a recent study, O’Neill et al. analyzed the divergence of surface winds above the northwest Atlantic. In the time mean, a band of convergence is found, overlying the southern flank of the Gulf Stream. To quantify the impact of synoptic storms, the authors proposed to compare the time-mean divergence with the divergence averaged in the absence of rain. In the resulting conditional-average field, divergence was found to be positive nearly everywhere. O'Neill et al. concluded that this absence of convergence precludes the Ekman-balanced mass adjustment to be responsible for the atmospheric response above the Gulf Stream. Using a simplistic toy model as well as a numerical simulation representative of a storm track, we show that the absence of negative divergence values purely results from the correlation between rain and convergence: the conditional average based on the absence of rain necessarily implies a shift toward positive divergence values. In consequence, we argue that conditional statistics (based on the absence of rain or removing extreme values in the divergence field), as produced by O’Neill et al., do not allow conclusions on the mechanisms underlying the atmospheric response to the Gulf Stream. They nevertheless highlight the essential role of synoptic storms in shaping the divergence field in instantaneous fields.
Note on the Rate of Restratification in the Baroclinic Spindown of Fronts
Authors: Callies Jörn , Ferrari Raffaele
Published: June 2018

This paper revisits how the restratifying buoyancy flux generated by baroclinic mixed layer instabilities depends on environmental conditions. The frontal spindown is shown to produce buoyancy fluxes that increase significantly beyond the previously proposed and widely used scaling (f is the Coriolis parameter, Λ is the geostrophic shear, and H is the mixed layer depth), irrespective of whether the initial front is broad or narrow. This increase occurs after the initial phase of the nonlinear evolution, when the baroclinic eddies grow in size and develop velocities significantly in excess of the scaling assumption V ~ ΛH. Implications for parameterizing the restratification caused by baroclinic mixed layer instabilities in coarse-resolution models are discussed.
Tornado Warnings at Night: Who Gets the Message?
Authors: Mason Lisa Reyes , Ellis Kelsey N. , Winchester Betsy , Schexnayder Susan
Published: June 2018

Nocturnal tornadoes are a public health threat, over twice as likely to have fatalities as tornadoes during the day. While tornado warning receipt is an important factor in models of individual behavioral response, receipt of warnings at night has not been studied in the literature to date. This study uses survey data from a random sample of Tennessee residents (N = 1804) who were randomly assigned to day or night versions of a near-identical survey instrument. Bivariate and logistic regression analyses compare chance of warning receipt, warning sources, and predictors of warning receipt for day versus night scenarios of a tornadic event. Over 80% of participants asked about a daytime tornado said there was a high/very high chance of receiving the warning, compared to fewer than 50% of participants asked about a nighttime event. Whereas demographic and cognitive factors helped predict tornado warning receipt during the day, cognitive and geographic factors were salient for the night. Perceived county risk and prior experience with a tornado were positively associated with chance of nighttime receipt, while belief that luck is an important factor in surviving a tornado and living in east (compared to west) Tennessee were negatively associated. Future research should consider partnering with the National Weather Service, emergency managers, and local media to increase the likelihood that people will receive tornado warnings at night and to better understand the role that cognitive factors and particular beliefs play in individual efforts to ensure that warnings are received.
Mass Incarceration: Pauline Problems and Pauline Solutions
Authors: Campbell Douglas A.
Published: June 2018

The growing realization that the United States today is characterized by mass incarceration has begun to influence the interpretation of the Bible. This essay will focus on the influence of Paul’s letters on the court and penal system in the United States, especially the pervasive emphasis on justification (Rom 1–4) by which our penal system operates. This is followed by discussion of a more constructive model for restorative justice, based on the compassionate God in Romans 5. The essay suggests how Paul’s own incarcerations inform relational models on which ministry among prisoners should be conducted today.
Got Milk? How Freedoms Evolved From Dairying Climates
Authors: Van de Vliert Evert , Welzel Christian , Shcherbak Andrey , Fischer Ronald , Alexander Amy C.
Published: June 2018

The roots and routes of cultural evolution are still a mystery. Here, we aim to lift a corner of that veil by illuminating the deep origins of encultured freedoms, which evolved through centuries-long processes of learning to pursue and transmit values and practices oriented toward autonomous individual choice. Analyzing a multitude of data sources, we unravel for 108 Old World countries a sequence of cultural evolution reaching from (a) ancient climates suitable for dairy farming to (b) lactose tolerance at the eve of the colonial era to (c) resources that empowered people in the early industrial era to (d) encultured freedoms today. Historically, lactose tolerance peaks under two contrasting conditions: cold winters and cool summers with steady rain versus hot summers and warm winters with extensive dry periods (Study 1). However, only the cold/wet variant of these two conditions links lactose tolerance at the eve of the colonial era to empowering resources in early industrial times, and to encultured freedoms today (Study 2). We interpret these findings as a form of gene-culture coevolution within a novel thermo-hydraulic theory of freedoms.
Neighborhood Violence, Peer Effects, and Academic Achievement in Chicago
Authors: Burdick-Will Julia
Published: June 2018

Research shows that exposure to local neighborhood violence is associated with students’ behavior and engagement in the classroom. Given the social nature of schooling, these symptoms not only affect individual students but have the potential to spill over and influence their classmates’ learning, as well. In this study, I use detailed administrative data from five complete cohorts of students in the Chicago Public Schools (2002 to 2010), crime data from the Chicago Police Department, and school-level surveys conducted by the University of Chicago Consortium on Chicago School Research to assess the strength of this peer effect. The estimated negative relationship between peer exposure to neighborhood violent crime and individual achievement is substantial and remains after adjusting for other peer characteristics and student fixed effects. Surveys suggest these results are related to trust, discipline, and safety concerns in cohorts with larger proportions of students from violent neighborhoods.
Jacques Rancière and the emancipation of bodies
Authors: Quintana Laura
Published: June 2018

This article contends that Jacques Rancière’s aesthetic understanding of corporeality is central to his interpretation of intellectual emancipation. Concretely, I will argue that Rancière’s aesthetic understanding can be viewed as a torsion of a body that affects its vital arrangements, which thereby open paths for political emancipation. I will support my claim with Rancière’s reading of the plebeian philosopher Gauny, as well as works that have not been sufficiently considered in secondary literature, such as The Nights of Labor and The Ignorant Schoolmaster. My reading will, I maintain, help to question common interpretations of emancipation in Rancière that tend to read this notion either in dichotomous terms or as a merely ephemeral, evental practice with no concrete conditions of possibility and without long-lasting or verifiable effects in the world.
Templates of flat pericardial patterns for precise aortic cusp extension
Authors: Izzat Mohammad Bashar , Alkhayat Mohammad Mouath
Published: June 2018

Background

Aortic cusp extension is a subjective and operator-dependent technique. In order to facilitate surgical correction of aortic cusp retraction and reestablishment of adequate cusp coaptation, we sought to develop new templates that can be used to cut flat pericardial sheets into precise cusp extension patches.

Methods

Each template was designed as a two-dimensional unwrap of the natural geometry of a complete aortic cusp, and a series of templates were made available to correspond with all potential aortic cusp sizes. Based on these templates, aortic cusp extension was performed in 2 patients (aged 54 and 43 years) with significant retraction of the noncoronary aortic cusps and severe aortic valve insufficiency. In each patient, extension of the retracted native noncoronary cusp was undertaken using a bovine pericardial patch that matched the size of adjacent nondiseased native aortic cusps.

Results

Achieving geometrically perfect aortic cusp extensions was uncomplicated, and intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography confirmed satisfactory aortic valve repairs (aortic insufficiency < 1+ and low transvalvular gradients). Early follow-up transthoracic echocardiography confirmed that all valve cusps met at similar heights in the aortic root, and that their excursions were virtually identical.

Conclusions

The newly designed templates can be used to cut flat pericardial sheets into exact cusp extension patches, and initial clinical experience indicates that they are useful in performing precise aortic cusp extension procedures and restoring adequate aortic valve competence.
Effects of a physical activity and nutritional intervention in overweight and obese children through an educational and recreational camp
Authors: Rauber Suliane Beatriz , Castro Henrique de Oliveira , Marinho Alcyane , Vicente Joyce Bomfim , Ribeiro Henrique Lima , Monteiro Luciana Zaranza , Praça Isabella Reis , Simoes Herbert Gustavo , Campbell Carmen Silvia Grubert
Published: June 2018

Background:

Educational camps have hosted millions of children around the world. However, few studies have described their benefits on weight control and health promotion for overweight and obese children.

Aim:

To investigate the impact of a health educational program for children composed of 5 days of camp and a 12-week follow up on the physical activity level, sedentary behaviour, anthropometric data and food intake in overweight and obese children.

Methods:

12 children attended the Health Educational Program for Children divided into two phases. Phase 1 consisted of pre-assessments and Phase 2 corresponded to 12 weeks of follow up. Physical activity level, sedentary behaviour and food intake were assessed throughout the questionnaire.

Results:

After the follow up, 25% of the children became active (>1500 and <3000 Metabolic Equivalent of Tasks per week). In contrast, the number of sedentary children (<600 Metabolic Equivalent of Tasks per week) decreased by 15% and insufficiently active (600–1500 Metabolic Equivalent of Tasks per week) increased by 15%. The physical activity level of leisure time increased significantly throughout weekdays (26.0%) and weekends (14.1%) after the follow up compared to before the camp. Sedentary behaviour showed a significant reduction of 177.14 and 41.43 minutes on weekdays and weekends, respectively. Before the camp, the consumption of sugar and sweets was out of control (100% inadequate), and after the intervention, 58.4% started to consume these foods in a balanced way.

Conclusions:

The Health Educational Program for Children (5-day camp and the 12 weeks of follow up) contributed to an increase in the physical activity level and a reduction in the sedentary behaviour and anthropometric measures in overweight and obese children.
Detecting development of speaking proficiency with a group oral test: A quantitative analysis
Authors: Leaper David A. , Brawn James R.
Published: June 2018

This paper is an investigation into the use of the group oral discussion test (GOT) to detect changes in speaking proficiency over a two-year period. In this test, three or four test-takers discuss a topic for up to 10 minutes without outside intervention. The performance of 53 Japanese university English major students on this test was videoed before their classes started and at the end of their first and second years of study. Indices of complexity, accuracy, and fluency were calculated and interactive function was analysed to create indices that tracked initiating, responding, developing, and collaborating functions. Improvements were detected in most of the indices over the three administrations, with varying patterns of development. However, the test-takers’ scores in five rated scales only improved significantly in the second administration. Possible reasons for this discrepancy are discussed, as are the implications this study has for the GOT format and its administration.
Using parental questionnaires to investigate the heritage language proficiency of bilingual children
Authors: Abbot-Smith Kirsten , Morawska-Patera Patrycja , Łuniewska Magdalena , Spruce Megan , Haman Ewa
Published: June 2018

We asked whether parental questionnaires on the heritage language proficiency of bilingual children might elucidate how proficient bilingual children are in their heritage language. We tested 20 UK-based Polish–English bilingual children between 4;5 and 5;9 years on Polish and English versions of the Cross-linguistic Lexical Tasks (CLTs). These comprise receptive and expressive picture tasks. Our bilingual group performed significantly worse on the Polish CLTs than on the English CLTs overall. They also performed significantly worse on the English CLTs than did an age- and gender-matched group of monolingual English-speaking children. Therefore our bilingual sample represent the type of bilinguals for whom education professionals have difficulty determining whether weak English is due to diminished English input vs. an underlying speech, language or communication need.

Parents of the bilinguals completed a Polish adaptation of the Children’s Communication Checklist 2. They also completed the Parents of Bilingual Children Questionnaire (PaBiQ), which includes risk factor measures (‘No Risk Index’ and children’s ‘Current Language Skills’). The PaBiQ also includes measures of the Amount and Length of Exposure to the majority language (English) prior to age four as well as the Proportion of English in the current input. For the bilingual sample the CCC2 General Communication Composite (GCC), which measures structural language, significantly predicted Polish CLT production, uniquely accounting for 25% of the variance. The parent-rated PaBiQ ‘Current Polish Skills’ section predicted the Polish CLT comprehension. While the PaBiQ measure of Amount and Length of English Exposure was related to both Polish comprehension and production, it did not retain significance in a regression analysis. Therefore, parental questionnaires of the heritage language could provide a useful first step for education professionals when deciding whether to refer bilingual children for speech and language assessment. Large scale studies are needed to further develop these parental questionnaires.
Assessing language skills in adolescents with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: King Diane , Palikara Olympia
Published: June 2018

Language abilities in adolescents with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are variable and can be challenging to ascertain with confidence. This study aimed to compare and evaluate different forms of language assessment: standardized language testing, narrative analysis and parent/teacher reports. 14 adolescents with ASD and 14 typically developing adolescents matched on age, gender and nonverbal ability were assessed using a number of standardized assessments for receptive and expressive language skills, a standardized narrative test, two experimental narrative assessments and a parent/teacher report measure of pragmatics. The findings were that, although adolescents with ASD scored within the normal range on expressive and receptive language, their performance on narrative tasks revealed difficulties with both structural and evaluative language. It should be noted that both teachers and parents rated the pragmatic language skills of the young people with ASD as significantly lower than those of the typically developing group but parents were more likely than teachers to additionally identify difficulties in speech and syntax. The implications of these results for professionals in terms of assessing the language skills of adolescents with ASD and for the planning of appropriate intervention are discussed.
A comparison of two algorithms for the simulation of bending-active structures
Authors: Cuvilliers Pierre , Yang Justina R. , Coar Lancelot , Mueller Caitlin
Published: June 2018

Bending-active structures, made from elastically bent materials such as fiberglass rods, offer exciting opportunities in architecture because of their broad formal palette and ease of construction. While they have been relevant since Frei Otto’s Mannheim Multihalle (1974), recent computational developments that help simulate active-bending processes have renewed interest in them. Such tools are important because they can replace time-consuming and imprecise physical modeling processes. However, physically meaningful simulations, using real materials and full scale, are difficult to create, and there are no good mechanisms to reveal when a simulation is inaccurate. This article offers a conceptual and numerical study of two popular contemporary algorithms for simulations of bending-active structures, mainly through a comparison of their results on the planar elastica. We then offer guidelines on best practice modeling settings and demonstrate possibilities and pitfalls through an architectural-scale case study.
Stock Market Reactions to Auto Manufacturers’ Environmental Failures
Authors: Wood Lincoln C. , Wang Jason X. , Duong Linh N. K. , Reiners Torsten , Smith Rikki
Published: June 2018

The automotive sector must meet strict regulations to increase mobility while reducing emissions to demonstrate environmental stewardship. Trust in the promise of a sustainable Fahrvergnügen was broken with recent scandals like Dieselgate denting the confidence of regulators and consumers. Overpromising on sustainable innovative technology resulted in unethical behavior, deceit, and failure to meet promised standards. We consider to what extent societal disapproval was evident in the stock market reaction to these events. We sampled 41 announcements (1984 to 2016) and observed a mean stock market reaction of -1.01%. There was no difference in the stock reaction in firms failing governmental vs. voluntary standards and more negative reactions for events following Dieselgate or when compensation was offered. The severity of the reaction to unethical misuse of environmental credentials should encourage maintaining promised environmental performances as a macromarketing strategy.
A novel probability density function applied to wind characterization in order to evaluate the wind power potential in Tungurahua, Ecuador’s Andean region
Authors: García del Valle Javier , Mayorga Alex , López Germánico
Published: June 2018

In this investigation, the measured wind characteristics over the span of a year is reported for a location in the highlands of the Ecuadorian Andes. The first part of the article has been devoted to study the influence of the sampling rate on the annual power density by means of a number of techniques, namely the ensemble of means, aliasing, and Fourier low-pass filters. A byproduct of this analysis, once the wind frequency pattern was identified, has been the proposal of a new probability density function based on a daily Gaussian-weighted average of sinusoidal waveforms. The second part of the article thoroughly develops the proposed model along with a comparison with the measured data. The model proposed herein was found appropriate for describing poor class wind locations, as the one portrayed here, due to its ability of predict a zero wind probability.
Modeling Car Drivers’ On-Street Parking Decisions using the Integrated Hierarchical Information Integration Approach
Authors: Khaliq Annum , van der Waerden Peter , Janssens Davy
Published: June 2018

Rising issues in urbanization and transportation urge municipalities to optimize the use of on-street parking spaces in order to meet local needs and complement the role of available off-street parking. In this paper car drivers’ parking decisions have been investigated using a stated choice experiment, based on the method of integrated hierarchical information integration. According to this approach, a large set of parking related attributes and attribute levels are grouped into two higher order decision constructs, which are presented as hypothetical street segments. The respondents were asked if they would park their car in the street segment with the listed attributes. The collected data is used to estimate the parameters of a standard multinomial logit model. This study differs from previous studies as a large range of attributes is examined, including the parking situation and the road conditions in a street segment along with some features of off-street parking facilities present in the vicinity of the street segment. The results indicate that the contextual variables such as ‘walking distance to destination’ and ‘parking cost’ are key attributes that car drivers consider while making on-street parking decisions, while street-level attributes such as ‘occupancy,’‘security,’ and ‘surrounding activities’ seem to have only a minor impact. The study concludes with an outlook of how these insights into car drivers’ parking choice process can be used by local authorities to reduce cruising in urban areas. Moreover, these findings can be integrated in multi-agent systems to investigate car drivers’ movements in urban areas.
Applying Large-Scale Optimization to Evaluate Pavement Maintenance Alternatives for Low-Volume Roads using Genetic Algorithms
Authors: Hafez Marwan , Ksaibati Khaled , Atadero Rebecca A.
Published: June 2018

Over the last decade, significant progress has been made to customize the maintenance policies of low-volume roads (LVRs) to local needs and available resources. Low-cost treatments and surface repairs are extensively employed to reduce annual maintenance costs. Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) uses chip seals and thin overlays as the available treatment options applied to LVRs. However, the effectiveness of these treatments differs depending on the existing condition of pavements. Some surface treatments and light rehabilitations provide only short-term effectiveness. Multi-year optimization techniques can support decision makers with a set of optimal maintenance activities to achieve specific pavement performance targets. This study applies large-scale optimization to compare the current CDOT maintenance policy with an alternative strategy recommended for low-volume paved roads in Colorado. Genetic algorithms were applied in the optimization models because they are capable of resolving the computational complexity of optimization problems in a timely fashion. The optimized maintenance alternatives were comprehensively investigated for a LVR network in Colorado over a specific planning horizon. The specific optimization constraints and limitations prevailing in LVRs are addressed and introduced in the problem formulation of the optimization process. The results of both performance and cost analysis emphasize the effectiveness of the proposed maintenance strategy compared with the existing one. The alternative policy provides much more benefit-cost saving while preserving the overall pavement performance of the network. This approach is expected to be efficient to quantify the mid- and long-term financial impact of different treatment policies applied to LVRs within modest resources.
Manufacturing Masculinity: Exploring Gender and Workplace Surveillance
Authors: Payne Julianne
Published: June 2018

Research on workplace surveillance highlights managerial initiatives to expand monitoring and make it less obtrusive, but we know relatively little about how to explain workers’ diverse responses to monitoring. Using ethnographic data collected at an electronics retailer, I suggest that gender-related status seeking between workers helps to account for variation in workers’ experience of and responses to workplace surveillance. Men used surveillance to demonstrate their skill and expertise relative to other men, a process I refer to as “manufacturing masculinity.” Although women also aspired to be strong and knowledgeable salespeople, they were treated as illegitimate competitors in men’s status contests. The company’s masculine culture primed workers to interpret surveillance through this gendered lens.
Influence of the amount of body weight support on lower limb joints’ kinematics during treadmill walking at different gait speeds: Reference data on healthy adults to define trajectories for robot assistance
Authors: Ferrarin Maurizio , Rabuffetti Marco , Geda Elisabetta , Sirolli Silvia , Marzegan Alberto , Bruno Valentina , Sacco Katiuscia
Published: June 2018

Several robotic devices have been developed for the rehabilitation of treadmill walking in patients with movement disorders due to injuries or diseases of the central nervous system. These robots induce coordinated multi-joint movements aimed at reproducing the physiological walking or stepping patterns. Control strategies developed for robotic locomotor training need a set of predefined lower limb joint angular trajectories as reference input for the control algorithm. Such trajectories are typically taken from normative database of overground unassisted walking. However, it has been demonstrated that gait speed and the amount of body weight support significantly influence joint trajectories during walking. Moreover, both the speed and the level of body weight support must be individually adjusted according to the rehabilitation phase and the residual locomotor abilities of the patient. In this work, 10 healthy participants (age range: 23–48 years) were asked to walk in movement analysis laboratory on a treadmill at five different speeds and four different levels of body weight support; besides, a trial with full body weight support, that is, with the subject suspended on air, was performed at two different cadences. The results confirm that lower limb kinematics during walking is affected by gait speed and by the amount of body weight support, and that on-air stepping is radically different from treadmill walking. Importantly, the results provide normative data in a numerical form to be used as reference trajectories for controlling robot-assisted body weight support walking training. An electronic addendum is provided to easily access to such reference data for different combinations of gait speeds and body weight support levels.
Adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system–based path planning of 5-degrees-of-freedom spatial manipulator for medical applications
Authors: Narayan Jyotindra , Singla Ekta , Soni Sanjeev , Singla Ashish
Published: June 2018

Over the last few decades, medical-assisted robots have been considered by many researchers, within the research domain of robotics. In this article, a 5-degrees-of-freedom spatial medical manipulator is analyzed for path planning, based on inverse kinematic solutions. Analytical methods have generally employed for finding the inverse kinematic solutions in earlier studies. However, this method is only appreciable in case of closed-form solutions. The unusual joint configurations of considered manipulator result in more complexity to attain the closed-form solutions, analytically. To overcome with shortcomings of analytical method, a non-traditional approach named adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system is proposed under the class of artificial intelligent techniques. This article presents this neuro-fuzzy approach for desired path generation by 5-degrees-of-freedom manipulator. The estimation of percentage error between actual path and adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system–generated path is done with respect to x, y, and z directions, respectively. Furthermore, the error between actual and predicted values regarding joint parameters is calculated for a certain arm matrix. The prototype of 5-degrees-of-freedom medical-assisted manipulator is developed at CSIR-CSIO Laboratory Chandigarh, which is also termed as patient-side manipulator to be utilized in robot-assisted surgery. Through the simulation runs, in this work, it is found that the results from adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system approach are quite satisfactory and acceptable.
Attitudes and perceptions of Conacyt researchers towards public communication of science and technology
Authors: Sanz Merino Noemí , Tarhuni Navarro Daniela H
Published: June 2018

This study aims to explore the perceptions and attitudes toward Public Communication of Science and Technology of the researchers of the National Council of Science and Technology (Conacyt), in order to provide a diagnosis about the ways the Mexican scientists are involved in public communication and to contribute to the visibility of researchers’ needs in being able to popularize science. The results show significant differences among the researchers’ opinions with respect to their perceptions about science communication, the ways they participate in PUS activities and their identified needs. In general, the researchers of Conacyt perceived public communication as very important. However, lack of time and of academic recognition stood out as determining factors in their low contribution to science popularization. We conclude that, to achieve a culture of Public Engagement in public communication of science and technology among R&D institutions, the Mexican Administration should address the above-mentioned unfavorable professional circumstances.
The Relationship Between Neuropsychological Deficits and Emotional Lability in Adults With ADHD
Authors: Gisbert Laura , Richarte Vanesa , Corrales Montserrat , Ibáñez Pol , Bosch Rosa , Bellina Mariano , Fadeuilhe Christian , Casas Miquel , Ramos-Quiroga Josep Antoni
Published: June 2018

Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the extent to which neuropsychological performance parameters implicated in ADHD might mediate the relationship between emotional lability (EL) and this disorder. Method: Eight hundred twelve adult patients with ADHD were examined. EL was assessed using the EL subscale of Conners’ Adult ADHD Rating Scales (CAARS). To assess cognitive and executive functions, a battery of neuropsychological tests was performed in 262 patients with ADHD and high EL symptomatology and 550 patients with ADHD and low EL symptomatology. Results: Several differences between groups were found regarding neuropsychological performance; however, nearly all significant differences disappeared when the effect of gender, inattention, and hyperactive symptoms and psychiatric comorbidities were taken into account. Conclusion: Our results do not support the hypothesis that neuropsychological deficits are associated with EL in adults with ADHD.
Officer involved domestic violence
Authors: Russell Brenda L , Pappas Nicholas
Published: June 2018

Very little is known about officer-involved domestic violence (OIDV). Although the International Association for Chiefs of Police has developed model policies about OIDV, the extent to which agencies adopted these policies across the United States remains unclear. Similarly, research on and attention to OIDV have diminished substantially since the 1990s. Officer training on OIDV is also rare, but pilot studies examining the use of new curriculum show promise. Yet, there is so much more to be done. This article reviews research and policy on OIDV and seeks to provide motivation for uniformity of policy implementation and officer response to OIDV, calling for transparency via research and reporting.
(Non)-developments in environmental justice in Scotland
Authors: Christman Ben
Published: June 2018

This comment discusses the implementation of a 2011 manifesto commitment by the Scottish National Party to publish an options paper on the creation of an environmental court in Scotland. It critiques the resulting 2016 ‘Developments in environmental justice in Scotland’ consultation and subsequent 2017 ‘analysis and response’ – which decided against creating an environmental court. In particular, it examines the consultation with regard to the access to environmental justice requirements of the Aarhus Convention. Despite repeated findings by the Aarhus Convention Compliance Committee and the Meeting of the Parties that the Scottish legal system is non-compliant with Articles 9(4) and 9(5), the consultation documents mention Scotland’s ‘ongoing compliance’ and dismiss the Compliance Committee as a non-judicial body. The comment argues that the Scottish Government failed to fulfil its manifesto commitment and gave little recognition to the structural problems in accessing environmental justice in Scotland.
Towards a holistic conceptualisation of early childhood educators’ work-related well-being
Authors: Cumming Tamara , Wong Sandie
Published: June 2018

Both the concept of well-being and the work of early childhood educators are complex. To date, research concerning educators’ well-being has lacked a comprehensive conceptualisation that reflects these complexities. With increased research, policy and practice attention, a clearly articulated conceptualisation is now needed to guide empirical research and practical efforts to better support educators’ well-being. In this article, the authors draw on multidisciplinary perspectives to propose such a conceptualisation. Philosophical, psychological, physiological, organisational science and sociological sources are explored and critiqued for their relevance to early childhood educators’ well-being. Key aspects of these sources, and Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory, are brought together to argue for a morally anchored conceptualisation which acknowledges that educators’ well-being is indivisible from the contexts in which it is experienced.
Multimodal digital text creation using tablets and open-ended creative apps to improve the literacy learning of children in early childhood classrooms
Authors: Oakley Grace , Wildy Helen , Berman Ye’Elah
Published: June 2018

This article reports on an exploratory mixed-methods study that investigated how the creation of multimodal digital texts, using tablets, and open-ended creative apps contributed to the literacy learning of five-year-old children in two schools in low socioeconomic areas in Western Australia. Participating teachers learned about seven exemplar learning activities designed to engage children in multimodal text creation using tablets, primarily to improve literacy. Teachers used exemplars to guide their literacy planning and practice over three school terms. Pre- and post-test scores suggest that aspects of participating children’s reading had improved. Teachers also reported some improvements in children’s oral language and writing, as well as reading.
Noise reduction analysis of supersonic unheated jets with fluidic injection using large eddy simulations
Authors: Coderoni Marco , Lyrintzis Anastasios S , Blaisdell Gregory A
Published: June 2018

A set of large eddy simulations is used to perform a numerical analysis of fluidic injection as a tool for noise reduction. This technique, developed at the Pennsylvania State University, allows one to turn on and off the air injectors in order to reduce the noise during takeoff and landing without penalizing performance in other flight regimes. Numerical simulations are performed on a military-style nozzle based on the GE F400-series engines, with a design Mach number of 1.65, for overexpanded jet conditions. The numerical results are compared and validated with the outcome of experiments performed at the Pennsylvania State University. For the case chosen, the fluidic injection shows the potential of breaking down shock cells into smaller structures with different orientation and strength. This directly reduces the intensity of broadband shock associated noise, with a positive effect of reducing the overall sound pressure level by more than [Formula: see text] along the direction of maximum sound propagation of the baseline case. The maximum noise reduction was found to be almost [Formula: see text] at 55° on the azimuthal plane in between two lines of injectors.
Microangiopathy is associated with bone loss in female type 2 diabetes mellitus patients
Authors: Zhong Ni , Zhang Youyang , Pu Xiangling , Xu Bei , Xu Mingxin , Cai Haidong , Zhang Ge , Cui Ran , Sheng Hui , Qu Shen
Published: June 2018

Objective:

Type 2 diabetes mellitus complicated with microvascular diseases can be used as a model to study the relationship between bone health and the microvascular situation.

Methods:

A total of 2,170 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (1,188 postmenopausal females and 982 males aged ⩾50 years) were included in our cross-sectional study. These patients were grouped according to 24-hour urine protein level: Group I (<30 mg), Group II (30-299 mg) and Group III (≥300 mg). Bone mineral density of the lumbar spine, hip and femoral neck was evaluated by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Fundus oculi photography for diabetic retinopathy and 24-h urine protein for diabetic nephropathy were used as markers of microangiopathy in type 2 diabetes mellitus. Characteristics of the patients and bone mineral density were compared. Multivariate analysis was used to study the association between bone mineral density and microangiopathy. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 20.0. p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

Group III had the lowest bone mineral density level in both genders. Multivariate analysis revealed that microangiopathy was negatively correlated with bone mineral density in females (lumbar: r = –0.522, p < 0.001; hip: r = –0.301, p = 0.010; femoral neck: r = –0.314, p = 0.009), but not in males, after adjustment for age, body mass index, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetic status, hepatic function, kidney function, sex hormones and 25(OH) vitamin D.

Conclusion:

These results demonstrate an independent negative correlation between microangiopathy and bone mineral density in postmenopausal female type 2 diabetes mellitus patients.
Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy Treatment for Recurrent, Previously Irradiated Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Stanisce Luke , Koshkareva Yekaterina , Xu Qianyi , Patel Ashish , Squillante Christian , Ahmad Nadir , Rajagopalan Kumar , Kubicek Gregory J.
Published: June 2018

Purpose:

Locally recurrent, previously irradiated primary head and neck tumors have historically been associated with poor outcomes. Stereotactic body radiation therapy has emerged as a feasible and promising treatment option for tumor recurrence, particularly in nonsurgical candidates. This study aimed to assess the associated outcomes of stereotactic body radiation therapy used in this setting.

Methods:

Retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected database of 25 patients treated with CyberKnife for unresectable, recurrent head and neck cancer in a previously irradiated field. The primary end points evaluated were rates of survival, tumor control, and treatment-related toxicities.

Results:

Median survival of the study population was 7.5 months (range, 1.5-47.0 months). Median survival of the 20 (80%) patients who were treated with curative purpose was 8.3 months. One-year overall survival rate for the entire population was 32%. The respective 1-year and 2-year survival rates for the curative subcohort were 40% and 20%, respectively. Local and locoregional failure occurred in 8 (32%) and 7 (28%) patients, respectively. Low severe acute (4%) and late (6%) treatment-related toxicity rates were observed. No grade 4 or 5 toxicities were observed.

Conclusion:

Stereotactic body radiation therapy is a viable treatment option for patients with unresectable, recurrent head and neck cancer. Significant tumor control rates are achievable with minimal severe toxicity. Although perhaps associated with patient selection and a heterogeneous sample, overall survival of stereotactic body radiation therapy outcomes appears unfavorable.
University Infrastructures for Peace in Africa: The Transformative Potential of Higher Education in Conflict Contexts
Authors: Johnson Ane Turner
Published: June 2018

The purpose of this article is to consider how higher education responds to conflict on campus and in the community. Moving beyond the victim/perpetrator paradigm prevalent in the literature on education in conflict contexts toward the transformative capacity of education, this research suggests that public universities may develop mechanisms that orient the institution toward capacity and consensus building—constructs associated with infrastructures for peace. Findings from comparative case studies conducted in Côte d’Ivoire and Kenya at two public universities demonstrate that both intentional and indirect policies were cultivated to contend with and possibly transform the conditions for localized conflict and begin to theorize university infrastructures for peace.
The Role of Hospital Design in Reducing Anxiety for Pediatric Patients
Authors: Cartland Jenifer , Ruch-Ross Holly S. , Carr Lauren , Hall Audrey , Olsen Richard , Rosendale Ellen , Ruohonen Susan
Published: June 2018

Objectives:

To study the impact of hospital design on patient and family experiences during and after hospitalization.

Background:

Hospitalization can be psychologically traumatic for children. Few research studies have studied the role of the design of the hospital environment in mitigating that traumatic experience.

Methods:

The study employs a two-group posttest and follow-up design to compare the impact of hospitalization on child anxiety and parent stress. It compares the experiences of children (ages 3–17) hospitalized at a new facility designed to support child-centered care and with family-friendly features with an older facility that did not have these features. The new facility was a replacement of the old one, so that many challenges to comparison are addressed.

Results:

Controlling for the facts of hospitalization, patient demographics, and the child’s typical anxiety level, children in the new facility experienced less anxiety than in the old facility. The study does not provide evidence that the hospital design reduced the psychological sequelae of hospitalization. Parents and children found different features of the hospital to be restorative.

Conclusions:

The study supports the use of Ulrich’s theory of supportive design to children’s healthcare environments, though what is experienced as supportive design will vary by the developmental stage of the child.