bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the presence or absence of phasmids in males of Heteroderidae (Tylenchida)
Authors: Sturhan Dieter
Published: October 2015

Published data on the presence or absence of phasmids in males of Heteroderidae species are compiled and critically reviewed. Based mainly on results of previous SEM studies and complemented by light microscopy using DIC optics, the conclusion is drawn that male phasmids appear to be absent in all species of the genera assigned to the subfamilies Heteroderinae and Ataloderinae, but present and often distinct in the Meloidoderinae genera Cryphodera and Meloidodera. The presence of male phasmids is considered as ancestral, and loss of phasmids as a derived character.
Type-studies in American Russula subsection Decolorantes (Russulales, Basidiomycota), part II.
Authors: Adamčík Slavomír , Jančovičová Soňa , Buyck Bart
Published: October 2015

In this second contribution on native American species in Russula subsect. Decolorantes, the authors focus on four additional species that exhibit a blackening context: two species from the West Coast, R. californiensis and R. occidentalis, and two species from the East Coast, R. rubescens and R. rubriceps. A key to the species in Decolorantes is provided. Russula californiensis and R. rubescens are lectotypified.
Pseudodidymosphaeria gen. nov. in Massarinaceae
Authors: Thambugala Kasun Madhusanka , CHUNFANG YU , CAMPORESI ERIO , BAHKALI ALI H. , YI LIU ZUO , HYDE KEVIN
Published: October 2015

Didymosphaeria spartii was collected from dead branches of Spartium junceum in Italy. Multi-gene phylogenetic analyses of ITS, 18S and 28S nrDNA sequence data were carried out using maximum likelihood and Bayesian analysis. The resulting phylogenetic trees showed this to be a new genus in a well-supported clade in Massarinaceae. A new genus Pseudodidymosphaeria is therefore introduced to accommodate this species based on molecular phylogeny and morphology. A illustrated account is provided for the new genus with its asexual morph and the new taxon is compared with Massarina and Didymosphaeria.
Diversity of Paranura Axelson, 1902 (Collembola: Neanuridae: Neanurinae) in Pacific Region of Russia and United States
Authors: SMOLIS ADRIAN , DEHARVENG LOUIS
Published: October 2015

Eight new species of the genus Paranura are described from temperate zone of Holarctic. Five of them: Paranura reticulata sp. nov., Paranura oregonensis sp. nov., Paranura reducta sp. nov., Paranura cassagnaui sp. nov. and Paranura microchaetosa sp. nov. were found in coniferous forests of Oregon state, USA. Three others: Paranura kedrovayensis sp. nov., Paranura setosa sp. nov. and Paranura conjuncta sp. nov. were collected in mixed woods of Russian Far East. All new species are illustrated in detail and compared with existing taxa. P. reticulata sp. nov. is characterised by having three ocular chaetae, relatively short chaeta F on head, four ordinary chaetae De on th. III and three chaetae Di in abd. V (in s-uenoi two chaetae). The presence of only one ordinary chaeta De on abdomen IV is the most characteristic and recognizable character of P. oregonensis sp. nov. P. reducta sp. nov. is most diagnostically recognized by labral chaetotaxy, with only 4 chaetae. The species is true saproxylic form living inside decayed logs of coniferous trees only. P. cassagnaui sp. nov. is easy to distinguish by the presence of complete chaetotaxy of central area of head, presence of microchaetae on furcal remnant and the fusion of tubercles Di on abd. V. P. microchaetosa sp. nov. and P. kedrovayensis sp. nov. are superficially very similar to each other in dorsal chaetotaxy, and differ in number of ordinary chaetae De on abd. IV, trochanter and labium, and in the presence/absence of microchaetae on furcal remnant. P. setosa sp. nov. can be easily identified by one or two additional chaetae on central area of head, a character unknown in other species of the genus. P. conjuncta sp. nov. is characterised by the fusion of tubercles Di on abdomen V, the presence of microchaetae on furcal remnant and developed tubercle on central area of head. In addition, P. mjohjangensis Deharveng & Weiner, 1984 is newly recorded from Russia. An updated key to all world species of Paranura is also provided.
A new genus for a new species of Podoscirtini from southeast Tibet (Orthoptera: Gryllidae; Podoscirtinae; Podoscirtini)
Authors: HE ZHUQING , GOROCHOV ANDREJ V.
Published: October 2015

Most of the Chinese species of the tribe Podoscirtini are distributed in southern areas of China, especially in Yunnan Province and Hainan Island (Eades et al. 2015). Motuo County is located in southeast Tibet. In this area, altitude decreases from north to south sharply. The climate in Motuo is wet and warm, which makes the animals and plants are very different from those elsewhere in Tibet (Fig. 1, A). In 2014, two representatives of Podoscirtini were found in Motuo. One of them is Valiatrella bimaculata (Chopard, 1928) (Fig. 1, B). Another representative is the new species described in this paper. It belongs to a new genus strongly different from all the other genera of this tribe recently reviewed by Gorochov (2002–2006, 2010). Type material of this species is deposited at the Biological History Museum of East China Normal University (ECNU) and Shanghai Entomology Museum (SEM).
First description of the male of Alopecosa azsheganovae Esyunin, 1996 (Araneae: Lycosidae)
Authors: AZARKINA GALINA N. , MARUSIK YURI M. , ANTONENKO TATYANA V.
Published: October 2015

Alopecosa azsheganovae Esyunin, 1996 was described based on three females from Troitsk Wildlife Sanctuary (South Ural). This species was placed into the pulverulenta species group sensu Kronestedt (1990). After its description, it has been considered only in one publication by Esyunin & Tuneva (2012), who reported and illustrated two large (compared to the type series) females from the type locality. While studying material from Western Siberia, we found samples containing both sexes of A. azsheganovae. Therefore, we decided to redescribe the female and describe the previously unknown male of this species.
Description of the last instar larva of Anacroneuria tucuman Stark (Plecoptera: Perlidae) from northern Argentina
Authors: PESSACQ PABLO , MARCELA DE PAUL A.
Published: October 2015

The last instar larva of Anacroneuria tucuman Stark is described based on material from the Yungas Forest in Jujuy Province, Argentina. This is the first record of the species for the Province.
A new species of Branchinecta (Crustacea: Anostraca) from Uruguay
Authors: ROGERS D. CHRISTOPHER , LORENZ HELEN RACZ
Published: October 2015

Branchinecta uruguayensis, a new species of fairy shrimp, is described from a single seasonally astatic aquatic habitat in coastal Uruguay. This is the first record of an anostracan from the nation of Uruguay. Male B. uruguayensis n. sp. are separated from other Branchinecta species by the form of the second antennae. Branchinecta uruguayensis n. sp. share the distal antennomere lobiform projection with B. papillata Rogers, De los Rios, & Zúñiga, 2008 and B. achalensis César, 1985. Branchinecta uruguayensis n. sp. females are readily separated from all other Branchinecta by the presence of posteriolateral thoracic spines and lateral crenulations on the first abdomen segment margins. A key is provided to the Branchinectidae of South America.
Notes on the systematic placement of Sciacharis (Anthicimimus) (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Scydmaeninae)
Authors: JAŁOSZYŃSKI PAWEŁ
Published: October 2015

The entangled history of Sciacharis Broun, 1983, a genus in which nearly 240 species were placed by Herbert Franz who has apparently never studied its type species, was recently summarized by Jałoszyński (2014a, b). A synonymy of Chatchamaenus Franz with Sciacharis s. str. was demonstrated, and Maorinus Franz, 1980 was placed as a subgenus of Sciacharis (Jałoszyński 2014a). Still, the systematics of Sciacharis, a genus currently comprising nearly 300 species and distributed in the Southern Hemisphere, is far from clarity.
Why so scarce? Dictyopharidae from Madagascar (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha)
Authors: STROIŃSKI ADAM , SZWEDO JACEK
Published: October 2015

A new genus and species of Dictyopharidae from Madagascar—Tupala occulta gen. et sp. nov. is described and illustrated. It is the third known dictyopharid and the second representing tribe Dictyopharini. Two other taxa with taxonomic problems ascribed to Dictyopharidae are discussed. The question of paucity of Dictyopharidae of Madagascar is raised and several possible explanations are presented.
The Cephenniini of China. VII. New species and new records of Cephennodes Reitter of Shaanxi, Gansu and Sichuan (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Scydmaeninae)
Authors: JAŁOSZYŃSKI PAWEŁ
Published: October 2015

Nine new Chinese species of Cephennodes are described: C. (s. str.) intricatus sp. n. (Gansu), C. (s. str.) cryptointricatus sp. n. (Gansu), C. (s. str.) monofoveatus sp. n. (Shaanxi), C. (s. str.) pinnapes sp. n. (Sichuan), C. (s. str.) elegantissimus sp. n. (Sichuan), C. (s. str.) palpalis sp. n. (Gansu), C. (Fusionodes) corpulentus sp. n. (Sichuan), C. (Fusionodes) gutta sp. n. (Shaanxi) and C. (Fusionodes) medusa sp. n. (Sichuan). Cephennodes elegantissimus and C. palpalis are not placed in any species group within Cephennodes, while the remaining new taxa belong to the excavatus group (C. intricatus and C. cryptointricatus), the taurus group (C. monofoveatus), the inflatipes group (C. pinnapes), the graeseri group (C. gutta and C. medusa) and the newly established serratus group (C. corpulentus). Additionally, new records of previously described species are given: C. (s. str.) subcaudatus Jałoszyński (Shaanxi), C. (s. str.) parabdominalis Jałoszyński (Shaanxi) and C. (s. str.) pteroscapus Jałoszyński (Sichuan).
Competitive Injury and Damages Under the Robinson-Patman Act
Authors: Leffler Keith , Tatos Ted
Published: October 2015

When a competitor, who sells a homogeneous product in the same market, receives a wholesale cost advantage from a manufacturer, economists should expect some competitive injury absent extraordinary circumstances. Competitive injury refers to a disruption of the competitive process, that is, a reduction in competition in the marketplace where the manufacturer’s customers compete. A plaintiff may show competitive injury directly through lost sales or profits, or competitive injury may be inferred through the “Morton Salt” presumption, from FTC v. Morton Salt Co., 334 U.S. 37 (1948). Once competitive injury is established, a plaintiff can quantify the extent of the competitive injury by measuring the impact of the price discrimination on its profits in order to compute damages. Statistical and econometric evidence often play a large role in damages calculations and, to a lesser extent, the establishment of competitive injury. We present a case study in the gasoline fuel market, where competitors engage in a high degree of price-matching and intense competition. We discuss the computational challenges and our solutions to them. In addition, we discuss the implications of this case study for future Robinson-Patman cases.
Opening doors to participation of youth with physical disabilities: An intervention study
Authors: Anaby Dana R. , Law Mary C. , Majnemer Annette , Feldman Debbie
Published: October 2015

Background.

While participation in leisure activities is beneficial to youth’s health, little is known about effective intervention strategies to promote participation.

Purpose.

The aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness of environment-based interventions on participation of youth with physical disabilities.

Method.

Six adolescents ages 14 to 17 years participated in a 12-week intervention aimed at removing environmental barriers and coaching parents. An interrupted time series design was employed and a systematic replication of the intervention effect was examined across three individualized participation goals and across participants (17 goals overall). Goal performance was measured repeatedly using the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure and analyzed using visual inspection and a celeration line approach.

Findings.

A clinically significant improvement in performance scores ( M = 4.5, SD = 1.77) was observed across all 17 goals, and a statistically significant treatment effect was replicated in 13 goals (76%).

Implications.

Findings support the effectiveness of environment-based interventions in promoting youth participation, but larger studies are required.
The Effects of Cell Phone and Text Message Conversations on Simulated Street Crossing
Authors: Banducci Sarah E. , Ward Nathan , Gaspar John G. , Schab Kurt R. , Crowell James A. , Kaczmarski Henry , Kramer Arthur F.
Published: October 2015

Objective:

A fully immersive, high-fidelity street-crossing simulator was used to examine the effects of texting on pedestrian street-crossing performance.

Background:

Research suggests that street-crossing performance is impaired when pedestrians engage in cell phone conversations. Less is known about the impact of texting on street-crossing performance.

Method:

Thirty-two young adults completed three distraction conditions in a simulated street-crossing task: no distraction, phone conversation, and texting. A hands-free headset and a mounted tablet were used to conduct the phone and texting conversations, respectively. Participants moved through the virtual environment via a manual treadmill, allowing them to select crossing gaps and change their gait.

Results:

During the phone conversation and texting conditions, participants had fewer successful crossings and took longer to initiate crossing. Furthermore, in the texting condition, smaller percentage of time with head orientation toward the tablet, fewer number of head orientations toward the tablet, and greater percentage of total characters typed before initiating crossing predicted greater crossing success.

Conclusion:

Our results suggest that (a) texting is as unsafe as phone conversations for street-crossing performance and (b) when subjects completed most of the texting task before initiating crossing, they were more likely to make it safely across the street.

Application:

Sending and receiving text messages negatively impact a range of real-world behaviors. These results may inform personal and policy decisions.
The social and community opportunities profile social inclusion measure: Structural equivalence and differential item functioning in community mental health residents in Hong Kong and the United Kingdom
Authors: Huxley Peter John , Chan Kara , Chiu Marcus , Ma Yanni , Gaze Sarah , Evans Sherrill
Published: October 2015

Introduction:

China’s future major health problem will be the management of chronic diseases – of which mental health is a major one. An instrument is needed to measure mental health inclusion outcomes for mental health services in Hong Kong and mainland China as they strive to promote a more inclusive society for their citizens and particular disadvantaged groups.

Aim:

To report on the analysis of structural equivalence and item differentiation in two mentally unhealthy and one healthy sample in the United Kingdom and Hong Kong.

Method:

The mental health sample in Hong Kong was made up of non-governmental organisation (NGO) referrals meeting the selection/exclusion criteria (being well enough to be interviewed, having a formal psychiatric diagnosis and living in the community). A similar sample in the United Kingdom meeting the same selection criteria was obtained from a community mental health organisation, equivalent to the NGOs in Hong Kong. Exploratory factor analysis and logistic regression were conducted.

Results:

The single-variable, self-rated ‘overall social inclusion’ differs significantly between all of the samples, in the way we would expect from previous research, with the healthy population feeling more included than the serious mental illness (SMI) groups. In the exploratory factor analysis, the first two factors explain between a third and half of the variance, and the single variable which enters into all the analyses in the first factor is having friends to visit the home. All the regression models were significant; however, in Hong Kong sample, only one-fifth of the total variance is explained.

Conclusion:

The structural findings imply that the social and community opportunities profile–Chinese version (SCOPE-C) gives similar results when applied to another culture. As only one-fifth of the variance of ‘overall inclusion’ was explained in the Hong Kong sample, it may be that the instrument needs to be refined using different or additional items within the structural domains of inclusion.
Women in Public Administration
Authors: Schachter Hindy Lauer
Published: October 2015

This article explores some aspects of the place of gender in educating public administrators for leadership, an important component of re-orienting women’s public sector role. While previous research has examined the place of gender in the Master of Public Administration (MPA) diversity and core courses, this study adds to our knowledge by analyzing gender in popular introductory MPA textbooks and in leadership courses. The aim is not only to see whether these offerings cover gender issues but whether they explore such issues only through a legal lens or supplement that approach with analysis of stereotypes in the gendered workplace—what management scholars call second-generation bias issues. The research finds that introductory textbooks and most leadership courses do not include material on second-generation bias issues. This tendency is unfortunate as some feminist theorists argue that adding education in second-generation bias issues to MPA education would help increase the role of women as leaders.
School nurses’ health dialogues with pupils regarding food habits
Authors: Golsäter Marie , Norlin Åsa , Nilsson Hanna , Enskär Karin
Published: October 2015

The aim of this study was to describe the content of school nurses’ health dialogues with pupils regarding food habits. A qualitative content analysis of 24 recorded health dialogues resulted in five categories describing the content of the dialogues, regarding food habits. Current food habits covered food, mealtimes and food related to physical activity. Social context and food habits showed that social groups in the pupils’ surroundings affected their food habits . Society and food habits included external factors that affected food habits, such as school and laws . School nurses’ advice and support regarding food habits described how nurses offered advice, support and information. Pupils’ understanding of health in connection to food habits comprised the pupils’ knowledge, participation and willingness to change. The results showed a variety of interacting factors which affected the pupils’ food habits, upon which health-promotional work can be based.
Virginia's Invisible Candidate
Authors: Kirch John F.
Published: October 2015

This study examines the 2013 Virginia gubernatorial campaign to see how the state's newspapers covered a third-party candidate in a year in which voters said they were looking for an alternative to the Democrat and Republican. The study found that the third-party gubernatorial candidate received significantly less news coverage than the Democrat and Republican, even though he had strong favorability ratings while the major-party nominees were highly unpopular. The Democrat and Republican were mentioned more frequently in stories, headlines, and leads; they were quoted more often; and their issue positions were discussed more frequently than were those of the Libertarian. The study supports critical studies theory that the mainstream news media protect established power rather than acting as a conduit through which citizens can learn about all of their choices in an election.
Cognitive Appraisals of Alcohol Use in Early Adolescence
Authors: Colder Craig R. , Read Jennifer P. , Wieczorek William F. , Eiden Rina D. , Lengua Liliana J. , Hawk Larry W. , Trucco Elisa M. , Lopez-Vergara Hector I.
Published: October 2015

Early adolescence is a dynamic period for the development of alcohol appraisals (expected outcomes of drinking and subjective evaluations of expected outcomes), yet the literature provides a limited understanding of psychosocial factors that shape these appraisals during this period. This study took a comprehensive view of alcohol appraisals and considered positive and negative alcohol outcome expectancies, as well as subjective evaluations of expected outcomes. Developmental-ecological theory guided examination of individual, peer, family, and neighborhood predictors of cognitive appraisals of alcohol and use. A community sample of 378 adolescents ([Formula: see text] age 11.5 years at Wave 1 (W1), 52% female) was assessed annually for 4 years. Longitudinal path analysis suggested that the most robust predictors of alcohol appraisals were peer norms. Furthermore, perceived likelihood of positive and negative alcohol outcomes prospectively predicted increases in drinking. There was limited support for appraisals operating as mediators of psychosocial risk and protective factors.
Trust, regulatory processes and NICE decision-making: Appraising cost-effectiveness models through appraising people and systems
Authors: Brown Patrick , Hashem Ferhana , Calnan Michael
Published: October 2015

This article presents an ethnographic study of regulatory decision-making regarding the cost-effectiveness of expensive medicines at the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) in England. We explored trust as one important mechanism by which problems of complexity and uncertainty were resolved. Existing studies note the salience of trust for regulatory decisions, by which the appraisal of people becomes a proxy for appraising technologies themselves. Although such (dis)trust in manufacturers was one important influence, we describe a more intricate web of (dis)trust relations also involving various expert advisors, fellow committee members and committee Chairs. Within these complex chains of relations, we found examples of both more blind-acquiescent and more critical-investigative forms of trust as well as, at times, pronounced distrust. Difficulties in overcoming uncertainty through other means obliged trust in some contexts, although not in others. (Dis)trust was constructed through inferences involving abstract systems alongside actors’ oral and written presentations-of-self. Systemic features and ‘forced options’ to trust indicate potential insidious processes of regulatory capture.
Genetics against race: Science, politics and affirmative action in Brazil
Authors: Kent Michael , Wade Peter
Published: October 2015

This article analyses interrelations between genetic ancestry research, political conflict and social identity. It focuses on the debate on race-based affirmative action policies, which have been implemented in Brazil since the turn of the century. Genetic evidence of high levels of admixture in the Brazilian population has become a key element of arguments that question the validity of the category of race for the development of public policies. In response, members of Brazil’s black movement have dismissed the relevance of genetics by arguing, first, that in Brazil race functions as a social – rather than a biological – category, and, second, that racial classification and discrimination in this country are based on appearance, rather than on genotype. This article highlights the importance of power relations and political interests in shaping public engagements with genetic research and their social consequences.
A debate on the professional identity of occupational therapists
Authors: Turner Annie , Knight Judith
Published: October 2015

Introduction

The issue of occupational therapy’s professional identity has been debated for many years and continues today. Lack of clarity has resulted in occupational therapists’ perceptions of holding a low status and of colleague and public misunderstanding.

Method

A range of international literature was reviewed. Inductive analysis elicited two major themes – reasons for issues with identity and the consequences of issues with identity. The development of communities of practice is discussed.

Results

The analysis of the causes and consequences of issues with professional identity was used to suggest how the profession might become a mature community of practice. Lack of deep knowledge of the profession’s unique beliefs was shown to cause inconsistent messages about its identity. Consequently, practitioners believed they were undervalued. Understanding, owning and reinforcing an occupational paradigm were seen as vital elements for creating professional communities of practice.

Conclusion

To function as a community of practice requires occupational therapists to use a range of strategies that reinforce their unique occupation-based practice. Where all members commit to a single set of values and beliefs this can afford a unique identity, reinforced by the ability to demonstrate and articulate this through a clear, single message.
Development of an implantable synthetic membrane for the treatment of preterm premature rupture of fetal membranes
Authors: Roman Sabiniano , Bullock Anthony J , Anumba Dilly O , MacNeil Sheila
Published: October 2015

Preterm premature rupture of fetal membranes is a very common condition leading to premature labour of a non viable fetus. Significant morbidities may occur when preterm premature rupture of fetal membranes management is attempted to prolong the pregnancy for fetal maturation. Reducing the rate of loss of amniotic fluid and providing a barrier to bacterial entry may allow the pregnancy to continue to term, avoiding complications. Our aim is to develop a synthetic biocompatible membrane to form a distensible barrier for cervical closure which acts to reduce fluid loss and provide a surface for epithelial ingrowth to help repair the damaged membranes. Therefore, a bilayer membrane was developed using an electrospinning technique of combining two FDA-approved polymers, poly-L-lactic acid (PLA) and polyurethane (Z3) polymer. This was compared to a plain electrospun Z3 membrane. The physical and mechanical properties were assessed using scanning electron microscope images and a BOSE tensiometer, respectively, and compared to native fetal membranes. The performance of the membranes in preventing fluid loss was assessed by measuring their ability to support a column of water. Finally the ability of the membranes to support cell ingrowth was assessed by culturing adipose-derived stem cells on the membranes for two weeks and assessing metabolic activity after 7 and 14 days. The physical properties of the bilayer were similar to that of the native fetal membranes and it was resistant to fluid penetration. This bilayer membrane presented mechanical properties close to those for fetal membranes and showed elastic distention, which may be crucial for progress of the pregnancy. The membrane was also able to retain surgical sutures. In addition, it also supported the attachment and growth of adipose-derived stem cells for two weeks. In conclusion, this membrane may prove a useful approach in the treatment of preterm premature rupture of fetal membranes and now merits further investigation.
How Did Industrial Products Change a Society? Historical Evidence of Imported Cotton Cloth in Korea, 1882–1910
Authors: Kim Soon-Young , Ha-Brookshire Jung E.
Published: October 2015

International trades have been a major force of societal change in human history. Korea was forced to embrace the industrialized world economy through Japan’s economic desire to find new marketplaces for its industrial products. From the Japan-Korea Treaty of 1876 and Japan’s annexation of Korea in 1910, Korean consumers enjoyed superior quality and relatively inexpensive machine-made cotton cloth imported from Japan, America, and Great Britain, while Korean leaders were concerned about losing the nation’s core values to foreign countries. In this research, the authors describe trade patterns of cotton cloth, the shifting trends of Japanese dominance in cotton textile trades in Korea, and the firsthand expressions of both positive and negative impacts of imported cotton cloth during the early Industrial Revolution era. Finally, the authors illuminate the conflicting and chaotic social environments of the transition period from old, dynastic Korea to modern, industrial Korea.
Longitudinal Relationship Between Loneliness and Social Isolation in Older Adults
Authors: Petersen Johanna , Kaye Jeffrey , Jacobs Peter G. , Quinones Ana , Dodge Hiroko , Arnold Alice , Thielke Stephen
Published: October 2015

Objective: To understand the longitudinal relationship between loneliness and isolation. Method: Participants included 5,870 adults 65 years and older ( M = 72.89 ± 5.59 years) from the first 5 years of the Cardiovascular Health Study. Loneliness was assessed using a dichotomized loneliness question. Social isolation was assessed using six items from the Lubben Social Network Scale. Yearly life events were included to assess abrupt social network changes. Mixed effects logistic regression was employed to analyze the relationship between isolation and loneliness. Results: Higher levels of social isolation were associated with higher odds of loneliness, as was an increase (from median) in level of social isolation. Life events such as a friend dying were also associated with increased odds of loneliness. Discussion: These results suggest that average level of isolation and increases in the level of isolation are closely tied to loneliness, which has implications for future assessment or monitoring of loneliness in older adult populations.
EHL film thickness and load dependent power loss of cycloid reducers
Authors: Mihailidis Athanassios , Athanasopoulos Emmanouil , Agouridas Konstantinos
Published: October 2015

Robotic arms, space joints and micro-medical devices demand high positioning accuracy, high efficiency, lightweight reducers which often are required to be lubricated for life. Cycloid drives have been gaining popularity in recent years due to their compact form, high reduction ratio and stiffness. Energy loss minimization and ensured good lubrication are vital for those applications. Total power loss is commonly computed as sum of two parts. The first is the zero or minimum-load, which is caused mainly by oil churning and drag as well as contact seals friction. The second part is load dependent and is related to the transmitted power. It is dominated by the friction in all sliding contacts. Geometry parameters of the meshing surfaces affect the load distribution as well as the rolling and sliding velocity of the contacting bodies. The study utilizes meshing equations and an ideal load distribution model to calculate pressure, rolling and sliding at the contacts of a typical 1-disc cycloid reducer. The conditions are characterized by severe slip and counter-turning. A comparison with established EHL models revealed high discrepancy at areas of counter-turning. The ultimate aim of the present study is to calculate the local film thickness and friction. Due to the shortcomings of the aforementioned models, an advanced numerical EHL solver was employed. The determined conditions of the contact points were used as input for the solver. In order to demonstrate the method, calculations were performed for four different load cases as a way of showing the effect of input speed and torque on the efficiency.
A fretting fatigue setup for testing shrink-fit connections and experimental evidence of the strength enhancement induced by deep rolling
Authors: Bertini L , Santus C , Merlo A , Bandini M
Published: October 2015

Fretting tests are usually performed on flat specimens with lateral contacting pads. The shrink-fitted connection, which experiences fretting at the edge of the contact, prompted the alternative use of a round-shaped specimen. This simplified the equipment and provided an accurate alignment between the fretting specimen and the external hub which plays the role of the pad. The deep rolling treatment can also be efficiently applied to a round shape, which would otherwise be difficult on the flat specimen geometry. After introducing this solution for fretting testing, the paper shows an experimental campaign on three shrink-fitted connections with different sizes and material combinations. There was a significant improvement in fretting fatigue strength, induced by the deep rolling, for all three specimen types. Finally, scanning electron microscopic analyses provided insights into the fretting fatigue nucleation mechanisms both for untreated and deep-rolled specimens.
Heat transfer characteristics of slip flow over solid spheres
Authors: Anbarsooz Morteza , Niazmand Hamid
Published: October 2015

In this study, heat transfer characteristics of slip flow over an isolated impermeable solid sphere are investigated numerically. An isothermal solid sphere is considered at intermediate Reynolds numbers (0 ≤ Re ≤ 50) for Prandtl numbers in the range of 0.7–7.0. The Navier–Stokes and energy equations are solved by a control volume technique in conjunction with the velocity slip and temperature jump boundary conditions. It was found that the size of the thermal wake region according to the Knudsen number depends on the Prandtl number. At lower Prandtl numbers (0.7 ≤ Pr ≤ 2.0), the thermal wake region shrinks as the Knudsen number increases, while at higher Prandtl numbers, it grows as the Knudsen number increases. The maximum temperature jump occurs at the front stagnation point where the local Nusselt is itself maximum, owing to the maximum temperature gradient at this point. The results show that due to the opposing effects of the velocity slip and temperature jump, the average Nusselt number variation with the Knudsen number depends nonlinearly on both the Prandtl and Reynolds numbers. Furthermore, for the limiting case of Re → 0, an analytical solution for the problem is presented which has also served as a validation case.
Displacement model of the giant magnetostrictive actuator with strong bias magnetic field at low frequency
Authors: Guangming Xue , Peilin Zhang , Zhongbo He , Dongwei Li , Zhaoshu Yang , Zhenglong Zhao
Published: October 2015

A giant magnetostrictive actuator is designed with strong bias magnetic field. The influence of the strong bias field is introduced, and the corresponding exciting input signal is selected. Magnetic reluctance estimation, approximate linearity between the strain and magnetic field, and a mass–spring–damper system assumption are employed to analyze the actuator’s displacement with low-frequency signal input. An experimental system is designed, and properties of the proposed actuator are tested. With the help of square wave test, appropriate direction of exciting signal for the magnetostrictive actuator is determined. With the help of sinusoidal wave test, the established model is validated and the relationship between the maximum value of the displacement and of the current is analyzed. With exciting frequency lower than 200 Hz, the errors between the calculating and testing results are within 1.0 m, which validates the model.
Boundary detection with a road model for occupancy grids in the curvilinear coordinate system using a downward-looking lidar sensor
Authors: Kim Je Seok , Jeong Jin Han , Park Jahng Hyon
Published: October 2015

Many studies using a laser scanner have been conducted in order to study the environment of vehicles in real time. The method to find the driving area using a two-dimensional lidar sensor is divided into a forward-looking lidar sensor and a downward-looking lidar sensor based on the installation method. A downward-looking lidar sensor looks at the ground, enabling it to recognize kerbs and ditches which are lower than the installation position of the sensor. However, a downward-looking lidar sensor requires pre-processing to find the road boundary. The existing sensor models cannot generate an occupancy grid map without support, as the driving area recognized through a downward-looking lidar sensor forms a circular sector shape from the sensor installation position to the road boundary. This paper proposes a road sensor model that is capable of modelling an occupancy grid. We also propose a method to generate an occupancy grid map more suitable for autonomous vehicles by presenting the occupancy grid map in curvilinear space. The proposed method was validated by an experiment at Hanyang University campus and the quantitative results obtained from that experiment. We also compared this method with three conventional sensor model methods. The experimental results show that our method performs better than the conventional methods do in terms of both visual qualities and metric qualities.
Numerical study of passive cavity control on high-pressure ratio single expansion ramp nozzle under over-expansion condition
Authors: Zhou Li , Liu Zengwen , Wang Zhanxue , Xiao Hua
Published: October 2015

Single expansion ramp nozzle (SERN) is widely used in the propulsion system of hypersonic vehicle; it has good effect on weight loss, and also can reduce the nozzle base drag and friction loss effectively. But under the condition of transonic region, the flow is severely over-expanded in the SERN, and the corresponding performance of SERN is sharply declined. In order to improve the SERN performance under over-expansion condition, the passive flow control technique application of passive cavity on SERN is investigated numerically by solving Reynolds average Navier–Stokes equations, and with standard two-equation k-ɛ turbulent models adopted. The influences of major geometric parameters of passive cavity on the flow field and performance of passive cavity SERN are deeply explored. Results show passive cavity structure has active influence on the performance of SERN under the over-expansion condition. The shock position moves upstream and separation region increases in the passive cavity SERN. The number of the shock train in the passive cavity SERN decreases. And the second peak of the pressure distribution is obviously higher than that it has for the baseline SERN. The performance of passive cavity SERN is related to the size of separation zone and its starting position, which is determined by the position of the first hole in the passive cavity. Percent of porosity has a dominant influence on the flow field of passive cavity SERN. The position of the first hole in the passive cavity changes with the variation of percent of porosity, and the corresponding starting position of the flow blowing out from the passive cavity is different, resulting in the different position and intensity of the anterior oblique compression shock wave. The axial thrust coefficient of passive cavity SERN decreases with the increase in percent of porosity accordingly. The flow structures of passive cavity SERN change little with variety of aperture and cavity depth when percent of porosity remains constant, the axial thrust coefficient of passive cavity SERN are almost tantamount at this case. Compared to the effect of percent of porosity, the influence of aperture and cavity depth on flow field are much smaller. The influence of aperture and cavity depth on the performance of the passive cavity SERN can be ignored in the design.
Numerical investigation of plasma actuated and non-actuated Gurney flaps on aerodynamic characteristics of a plunging airfoil
Authors: MahboubiDoust A , Ramiar A , Dardel M
Published: October 2015

Two-dimensional laminar incompressible flow around a National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics 0012 plunging airfoil with different Gurney flap heights of 2% C, 5% C, and 7% C and the oscillation amplitude of h = 0.12 C and frequencies of ω = 1.3 and 4.67 rad/s at Re = 1850 is carried out in this paper. In addition to the Gurney flap, in order to control the flow over the airfoil, dielectric-barrier discharge plasma actuator is attached to the flap and its impact is investigated on the aerodynamic coefficients. Flow field and aerodynamic characteristics are compared with the clean plunging airfoil. For the Plasma force considered in this study, the 2% C Gurney flap height lead to a more enhancement in the lift curve. The results indicate that at all actuated and non-actuated Gurney flap heights the thrust is reduced. Furthermore, it is observed that by using plasma force at lower frequencies, [Formula: see text] is proportional to the square root of the Gurney flap height while at higher frequencies, plasma actuation inverses this proportion. Also, it can be concluded that the proportionality factor increases with increasing the frequency for both lifts and drags coefficients.
Unified variable selection in semi-parametric models
Authors: Terry William , Zhang Hongmei , Maity Arnab , Arshad Hasan , Karmaus Wilfried
Published: October 2015

We propose a Bayesian variable selection method in semi-parametric models with applications to genetic and epigenetic data (e.g., single nucleotide polymorphisms and DNA methylation, respectively). The data are individually standardized to reduce heterogeneity and facilitate simultaneous selection of categorical (single nucleotide polymorphisms) and continuous (DNA methylation) variables. The Gaussian reproducing kernel is applied to the transformed data to evaluate joint effect of the variables, which may include complex interactions between, e.g., single nucleotide polymorphisms and DNA methylation. Indicator variables are introduced to the model for the purpose of variable selection. The method is demonstrated and evaluated using simulations under different scenarios. We apply the method to identify informative DNA methylation sites and single nucleotide polymorphisms in a set of genes based on their joint effect on allergic sensitization. The selected single nucleotide polymorphisms and methylation sites have the potential to serve as early markers for allergy prediction, and consequently benefit medical and clinical research to prevent allergy before its manifestation.
Mapping Unhealthy Behavior Among Economically Active Men Using GIS in Suburban and Rural Areas of Sri Lanka
Authors: Silva J. Padmaka
Published: October 2015

The burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and certain behavioral risk factors related to NCDs (unhealthy behaviors) are becoming more common. This survey aims to map out such common unhealthy behaviors among all men 35 to 50 years old in a Medical Officer of Health area in the Western Province of Sri Lanka using a geographical information system (GIS) and an interviewer administered questionnaire by visiting all households in the study area. Data were analyzed with ARC GIS and SPSS software. Geographical areas where men with unhealthy behaviors cluster together (clusters) were identified and visually and statistically related to locations of schools, places of religious worship, and factories in the area. It was revealed that clusters of unhealthy behaviors are mostly seen in areas with less population density. Smoking and alcohol are clustering in estate areas occupied by Tamils. This way GIS mapping could be used to identify and reduce the burden of NCDs by visualizing clusters and how certain locations affect their spread.
Tracking controls of torque and force of 4-degree-of-freedom haptic master featuring smart electrorheological fluid
Authors: Han Young-Min , Choi Seung-Bok , Oh Jong-Seok
Published: October 2015

This study presents a new type of haptic master device using electrorheological fluid for minimally invasive surgery application. The proposed haptic master consists of an electrorheological spherical haptic device for 3-degree-of-freedom rotational motion and an electrorheological linear haptic device for 1-degree-of-freedom translational motion. The principal design variables of the haptic master are determined using the Bingham characteristic of electrorheological fluid and geometrical constraints. After designing an organ model, control performances are evaluated in a virtual environment using a sliding mode controller. It is demonstrated that the proposed haptic master can track well both torque and force which are required (or desired) ones for surgical operation using the robot-assisted minimally invasive surgery.
Lost in Space? Information Shortcuts, Spatial Voting, and Local Government Representation
Authors: Boudreau Cheryl , Elmendorf Christopher S. , MacKenzie Scott A.
Published: October 2015

Voters face difficult choices in local elections, where information about candidates is scarce and party labels often do not distinguish candidates’ ideological positions. Can voters choose candidates who represent them ideologically in these contexts? To address this question, we conduct original surveys that ask candidates in the 2011 mayoral election in San Francisco to take positions on local policy issues. We ask voters their positions on these same policy issues on a written exit poll. We use these policy positions to construct comparable measures of candidate and voter ideology (i.e., ideal points). Within the exit poll, we experimentally manipulate cues to examine their effects on voters’ candidate preferences. We observe a strong, positive relationship between voter ideology and the ideology of the candidates they choose in the election. However, our experiments show that endorsements from political parties and newspapers with ideological reputations weaken this relationship. These findings challenge the view of local elections as nonideological and demonstrate that spatial voting theory can be usefully applied to local settings. They also indicate that voters may not treat political party and newspaper endorsements as signals of candidates’ ideological positions, but rather as nonideological signals of partisan affinity or candidate quality/viability.
“It Gave Me My Life Back”
Authors: Lea Susan J. , Callaghan Lynne
Published: October 2015

Community-based advocacy services are important in enabling victims to escape domestic abuse and rebuild their lives. This study evaluated a domestic abuse service. Two phases of research were conducted following case-file analysis ( n = 86): surveys ( n = 22) and interviews ( n = 12) with victims, and interviews with key individuals ( n = 12) based in related statutory and community organizations. The findings revealed the holistic model of legal, practical, mental health–related, and advocacy components resulted in a range of benefits to victims and enhanced interagency partnership working. Core elements of a successful needs-led, victim-centered service could be distilled.
Social Anxiety and Loneliness in Adults Who Solicit Minors Online
Authors: Schulz Anja , Bergen Emilia , Schuhmann Petya , Hoyer Jürgen
Published: October 2015

This study examined the association of social anxiety, loneliness, and problematic Internet use (PIU) with the online solicitation of minors. Within a convenience sample of adult Internet users from Germany, Finland, and Sweden ( N = 2,828), we compared the responses of participants who had not interacted sexually with strangers online ( n = 2,049) with participants who sexually interacted with unknown adults online ( n = 642), and both groups with adults who sexually solicited unknown minors online ( n = 137). Online sexual interaction with adults was associated with higher levels of social anxiety, loneliness, and PIU compared with not sexually interacting with strangers online. Sexually soliciting minors online was associated with higher levels of social anxiety, loneliness, and PIU compared with sexually interacting with adults and not sexually interacting with strangers at all. Interestingly, compared with those with adult contacts, loneliness was specifically pronounced for participants who solicited children, whereas social anxiety and PIU were pronounced for participants soliciting adolescents. These findings suggest that social anxiety, loneliness, and PIU may be among the motivators for using the Internet to solicit individuals of different age groups for sexual purposes. These factors emerged as specifically relevant for adults who sexually solicited minors and who reported greater impairments compared with adults who sexually interacted with adults. These characteristics may thus be important to consider for assessment and treatment procedures for individuals soliciting minors online.