bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulating Tornado Probability and Tornado Wind Speed Based on Statistical Models
Authors: Cohen Ariel E. , Cohen Joel B. , Thompson Richard L. , Smith Bryan T.
Published: June 2018

This study presents the development and testing of two statistical models that simulate tornado potential and wind speed. This study reports on the first-ever development of two multiple regression–based models to assist warning forecasters in statistically simulating tornado probability and tornado wind speed in a diagnostic manner based on radar-observed tornado signature attributes and one environmental parameter. Based on a robust database, the radar-based storm-scale circulation attributes (strength, height above ground, clarity) combine with the effective-layer significant tornado parameter to establish a tornado probability. The second model adds the categorical presence (absence) of a tornadic debris signature to derive the tornado wind speed. While the fits of these models are considered somewhat modest, their regression coefficients generally offer physical consistency, based on findings from previous research. Furthermore, simulating these models on an independent dataset and other past cases featured in previous research reveals encouraging signals for accurately identifying higher potential for tornadoes. This statistical application using large-sample-size datasets can serve as a first step to streamlining the process of reproducibly quantifying tornado threats by service-providing organizations in a diagnostic manner, encouraging consistency in messaging scientifically sound information for the protection of life and property.
A Brief History of Evidence-Based Policy
Authors: Baron Jon
Published: June 2018

This article provides a brief history of evidence-based policy, which it defines as encompassing (1) the application of rigorous research methods, particularly randomized controlled trials (RCTs), to build credible evidence about “what works” to improve the human condition; and (2) the use of such evidence to focus public and private resources on effective interventions. Evidence-based policy emerged first in medicine after World War II, and has made tremendous contributions to human health. In social policy, a few RCTs were conducted before 1980, but the number grew rapidly in U.S. welfare and employment programs during the 1980s and 1990s and had an important impact on government policy. Since 2000, evidence-based policy has seen a major expansion in other social policy areas, including education and international development assistance. A recent milestone is the U.S. enactment of “tiered evidence” social programs in which rigorous evidence is the defining principle in awarding government funding for interventions.
Use of Administrative Records in Evidence-Based Policymaking
Authors: Groves Robert M. , Schoeffel George J.
Published: June 2018

Record systems used to administer programs often contain information useful for evaluating the effectiveness of a program. Administrative records are most often designed to facilitate processes key to the mission of the program. Data structures, quality assurance, quality control, and updating processes are generally defined by the needs of the program. Statistical uses of administrative data, common to evaluation studies, face a predictable set of benefits and challenges. This article reviews these issues.
The Role of Nonprofits in Designing and Implementing Evidence-Based Programs
Authors: Sullivan James X.
Published: June 2018

Human service nonprofits are a major provider of social services in this country, spending billions of dollars each year implementing programs to improve outcomes for their clients. Unfortunately, these programs are typically not rigorously evaluated to determine whether they are having their intended effect. Many obstacles make it challenging to rigorously evaluate services provided by these nonprofits, including evaluation costs, limited access to data, and small sample sizes, but these obstacles are surmountable. Policy-makers could accelerate the pace and quality of evidence building by providing more resources for impact evaluations, streamlining and standardizing access to key administrative data, and expanding support for the replication of effective programs. Better evidence of what works for human service nonprofits will ultimately mean more effective programs at the national level.
Viscoelastic behavior of an epoxy resin during cure below the glass transition temperature: Characterization and modeling
Authors: Courtois Alice , Hirsekorn Martin , Benavente Maria , Jaillon Agathe , Marcin Lionel , Ruiz Edu , Lévesque Martin
Published: June 2018

This paper presents a viscoelastic temperature- and degree-of-cure-dependent constitutive model for an epoxy resin. Multi-temperature relaxation tests on fully and partially cured rectangular epoxy specimens were conducted in a dynamic mechanical analysis apparatus with a three-point bending clamp. Master curves were constructed from the relaxation test results based on the time–temperature superposition hypothesis. The influence of the degree of cure was included through the cure-dependent glass transition temperature which was used as reference temperature for the shift factors. The model parameters were optimized by minimization of the differences between the model predictions and the experimental data. The model predictions were successfully validated against an independent creep-like strain history over which the temperature varied.
Feasibility study of a novel method for production of glassy reinforced composite Al–Ni60Nb40 of powder thixoforging
Authors: Nouri Z , Sedighi M , Minouei H
Published: June 2018

In the present study, the semisolid forming has been proved to be effective in fabricating amorphous reinforced aluminum matrix composite of high quality with appreciable mechanical properties. In other words, the Ni60Nb40 glassy reinforcement in 520.0 aluminum matrix composite was successfully fabricated via powder thixoforging without altering the glassy nature. Most prior studies are focused on solid state (powder metallurgy). Subsequently, the use of glassy particles with high crystallization temperatures provides processing the composite at higher temperatures. Considering the powder thixoforming benefits, we open a door to another way of manufacturing high-efficient amorphous reinforced metal matrix composite with brilliant mechanical properties. In monolithic matrix, the alloy produced via powder thixoforging hardness and compression yield strength reached 223(HV) and 747 MPa compared to as cast condition increase of 116% and 228%, respectively. Additionally, this significant mechanical strength was combined with a brilliant fracture strain of 40%. Moreover, the 30 vol.% glassy reinforced composite possess hardness, compression yield strength, and fracture strain of 311(HV), 875 MPa, and 13%, respectively. All produced specimens reached near full density over 99% relative density, leading to a considerable combination of superior strength and ductility. Significantly, the SYS of powder thixoforging samples significantly increased from 89 kN m kg−1 for as cast condition to 290, 238, 220, and 199 kN m kg−1 for the monolithic and amorphous reinforced Al matrix composites of 12, 20 and 30 vol.%.
Unheard Voices from the Global South
Authors: Fraley Austin
Published: June 2018

In an attempt to include voices from the Global South, many Westerners hear only reflections of their own voices, voices that easily fit within the framework of Western theology, such as Liberation theology. Not only does this give the false impression of a “global theology” but it does the very same thing a blatantly colonial practice has done in the past, this time unseen. Many western liberals and conservatives are guilty of equating African conservatism to American conservatism, which results in an unhelpful caricature of African Christians. African contextual theology does not emphasize reconsidering traditional interpretations of scripture, but making theology and scripture relevant to African problems and situations. The voices most relevant to the controversies between South and West are often the voices most overlooked. The debate about homosexuality in Africa frequently features gay Western voices but gay African voices are missing from almost all sources. Many Westerners feel that African churches are simply homophobic, viewing their claim that the issue of homosexuality is irrelevant in Africa as a dishonest motivation for their opposition. Many Africans, however, feel that it is an issue they are being forced to discuss at the expense of more pressing issues in their own context, such as confronting African Traditional Religions. My intention here is not to come down on one side of the debate between the West and the Global South, but rather to highlight the dissonance between what we hear about the Global South and the realities on the ground. If we are going to claim that we need to hear all voices, let it be all voices.
Examining the impact of audience response systems on student performance in anatomy education: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Fergusson Stuart J , Aka Justine J , Hennessy Catherine M , Wilson Andrew J , Parson Simon H , Harrison Ewen M , Finn Gabrielle M , Gillingwater Thomas H
Published: June 2018

Background and aims

Electronic audience response systems offer the potential to enhance learning and improve performance. However, objective research investigating the use of audience response systems in undergraduate education has so far produced mixed, inconclusive results. We investigated the impact of audience response systems on short- and long-term test performance, as well as student perceptions of the educational experience, when integrated into undergraduate anatomy teaching.

Methods and results

A cohort of 70 undergraduate medical students was randomly allocated to one of the two groups. Both groups received the same anatomy lecture, but one group experienced the addition of audience response systems. Multiple-choice tests were conducted before, immediately after the lecture and again 10 weeks later. Self-perceived post-lecture subject knowledge, confidence and enjoyment ratings did not differ between groups. Test performance immediately following the lecture improved when compared against baseline and was modestly but significantly superior in the group taught with audience response systems (mean test score of 17.3/20 versus 15.6/20 in the control group, p = 0.01). Tests conducted 10 weeks after the lecture showed no difference between groups (p = 0.61), although overall a small improvement from the baseline test was maintained (p = 0.02).

Conclusions

Whilst audience response systems offer opportunities to deliver novel education experiences to students, an initial superiority over standard methods does not necessarily translate into longer term gains in student performance when employed in the context of anatomy education.
Models for basic warp knitted fabrics Part II: single guide bar fabrics (closed-lap and open-lap)
Authors: Kurbak Arif
Published: June 2018

Warp knitted fabrics are mainly used as household goods, technical textiles, medical textiles, etc. Modeling of these fabrics is necessary for predicting the desired technical or medical functions beforehand. In this context, the present series of papers is devoted to the modeling of basic warp knitted fabrics. In this, Part II of this series, models for single guide bar fabrics are created. There are mainly two types of single bar fabrics, namely closed-lap and open-lap single bar fabrics. Structures are also changed by having different lapping movements up to the five needle spaces. In this work, 1 and 1, 2 and 1, 3 and 1, 4 and 1 closed-lap and 1 and 1, 2 and 1, 3 and 1 open-lap single bar warp knitted fabrics are considered.

During modeling, the loop leanings in the course-wise direction are considered, curvature equalities at the loop parts are attained as much as possible, two connected parabolas are taken as the fabric plane model of the loop connection part, loop heads are taken as parametric ellipses in two dimensions and the remaining loop parts are modeled by wrapping parabolic or cubic curves on imaginary cylindrical or conical objects. The models created are versatile and they can be changed and used for special cases.

The models created are drawn to scale by using the 3DS-MAX computer graphical program. At first glance, it is seen that the shapes obtained by the models are similar to the ones that can be observed in real samples.
Food Security Eludes Tribals of Andhra Pradesh
Authors: Murty K. Radhakrishna
Published: June 2018

India’s tribal population suffers mainly from deprivation and marginalisation. Caught in vicious cycles of poverty and social exclusion, tribals often struggle to survive while opportunities to access information, supplies and essential services elude them. Given this scenario, the present study intends to evaluate and assess the impact of the public distribution system run by the Government of India in a few selected tribal pockets in the state of Andhra Pradesh in the context of food security vis-à-vis the socio-economic situation of tribals. In this process, the study also covers the crucial aspect of a tribal’s right to food from the viewpoint of its availability, accessibility, adequacy and affordability—an area which is still an elusive chimera.
Opening New Vistas for Analysing India’s Political Economy
Authors: Mazumdar Surajit
Published: June 2018

Chirashree Das Gupta, State and Capital in Independent India: Institutions and Accumulation. Cambridge, New York, Melbourne, Delhi, Singapore: Cambridge University Press, 2016, xiv+315 pp., ₹795, ISBN 9781107102248 (Hardback).
Book review: Sengupta, Madhumita, Becoming Assamese: Colonialism and New Subjectivities in Northeast India
Authors: Rajkhowa Gaurav
Published: June 2018

Sengupta, Madhumita, Becoming Assamese: Colonialism and New Subjectivities in Northeast India. New Delhi: Routledge, India, 2016, pp. 278, ₹895, ISBN: 978-11-38219-60-1.
Book review: Renu Gupta, A Course in Academic Writing (2nd edition)
Authors: Srivastava Vinay Kumar
Published: June 2018

Renu Gupta, A Course in Academic Writing, (2nd edition). Hyderabad: Orient BlackSwan, 2017, 196 pp., ₹330, ISBN: 978-93-86689-63-4 (Paperback).
Book review: Nora Engel, Tuberculosis in India—A Case of Innovation and Control
Authors: Khan Shah Alam
Published: June 2018

Nora Engel, Tuberculosis in India—A Case of Innovation and Control. India: Orient BlackSwan, 2015, 267 pp., ₹595, ISBN: 978-81-25059-61-5 (Hardcover).
Book review: Bibek Debroy, Sanjay Chadha and Vidya Krishnamurthi, Indian Railways: The Weaving of a National Tapestry
Authors: Latief Farhana
Published: June 2018

Bibek Debroy, Sanjay Chadha and Vidya Krishnamurthi, Indian Railways: The Weaving of a National Tapestry. New Delhi: Penguin Random House India, 2017, 264 pp., ₹299, ISBN: 978-01-43426-75-2.
Performance of multilayered LDPE films used as greenhouse cover in semiarid climate
Authors: Aouinet M , Djakhdane K , Dehbi A , Castronuovo D , Picuno P
Published: June 2018

The low-density polyethylene films used for greenhouse roof were naturally weathered for 9 months in harsh climatic conditions (Tiaret region, Algeria). The changes in the mechanical properties have been measured by tensile and creep-recovery tests. The measurements were carried out for both monolayer and tri-layer films. The anisotropic character of the films is preserved during ageing. The improvement in the creep resistance via cross-linking for both monolayer and tri-layer films affects different deformations. The results revealed that the degradation performance of these new tri-layer films is found to be quite better than that of the monolayer film, with regard to the mechanical properties.
New media, expectant motherhood, and transnational families: power and resistance in birth tourism from Taiwan to the United States
Authors: Kang Tingyu
Published: June 2018

This article examines the role of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in transnational expectant motherhood in the context of birth tourism, a growing form of transnational family arrangement. This research is primarily based on interviews with Taiwanese women who have participated in birth tourism in the United States. The findings suggest that long-distance intimacy is now primarily mediated through ICT use, which not only functions to fulfil the women’s emotional needs but also largely serves to bring the women’s reproductive bodies under the surveillance of their geographically distant spouses. This is because pregnant bodies serve as a spectacle of intimacy during expectant parenthood. To manage this digital surveillance, some mothers develop strategies of resistance regarding ICT use. This includes the choice of less media-rich tools and the delayed use of ICTs, which allow temporal and spatial distance from the digital gaze of the father.
The double burden of chronic malnutrition and overweight and obesity in Ecuadorian mothers and children, 1986–2012
Authors: Freire Wilma B , Waters William F , Rivas-Mariño Gabriela , Belmont Philippe
Published: June 2018

Background:

The simultaneous presence of undernutrition and over-nutrition represents a paradox in global public health and is of increasing concern in Ecuador, where chronic malnutrition and overweight and obesity occur in the context of demographic and epidemiologic transitions. Two overlapping trends are present in Ecuador; while levels of stunting have decreased slowly in the past three decades, increasing proportions of children <5 years and women of reproductive age suffer from overweight and obesity.

Aim:

To analyze stunting and overweight and obesity in children <5 and their mothers aged from 15 to 49 years in the context of demographic and household characteristics between 1986 and 2012.

Methods:

This study compares data from nationally-representative surveys conducted in Ecuador in 1986, 2004, and 2012, each of which collected information on children <5 and mothers aged 15–49 years.

Results:

The prevalence of chronic malnutrition in children <5 decreased at different rates among Ecuadorians who differ in terms of residence, socioeconomic status, and mothers’ level of education, while overweight and obesity increased dramatically in the same period.

Conclusion:

Chronic malnutrition in children <5 and overweight in children <5 and mothers 15–49 years represent a double burden of malnutrition in Ecuador. The phenomena differ in their effects, and, while the prevalence of stunting is declining in Ecuador as it is in many parts of the world, the problem of overweight and obesity has emerged in dramatic fashion, and currently represents an extraordinary challenge to public health.
Improvement in overactive bladder symptoms in patients using functional electrical stimulation of the common peroneal nerve for walking
Authors: Hare Nicola , Georgopoulos Petros , Philips Kate E , Johnson Joanne E , Seary Coralie , Panicker Jalesh N , Stevenson Valerie L
Published: June 2018

Objective:

Functional electrical stimulation is used to improve walking speed and reduces falls in people with upper motor neurone foot-drop. Following anecdotal observations of changes in bladder symptoms, an observational study was performed to explore this association further.

Design:

A total of 47 consecutive patients attending for setup with functional electrical stimulation during a six-month period were asked to complete a questionnaire assessing bladder symptoms (ICIQ-OAB (International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Overactive Bladder)) at baseline and three  months during routine appointments.

Subjects:

In all, 35 (75%) had multiple sclerosis and the other 12 subjects had a total of 9 diagnoses including 3 with stroke. Other conditions included cerebral palsy, motor neurone disease, hereditary spastic paraparesis, meningioma and spinocerebellar ataxias.

Results:

Improvement in overactive bladder symptoms was not significant in the whole cohort, however, was significant in patients with multiple sclerosis ( n  =  35; mean change in ICIQ-OAB score 1.0, P  =  0.043). Specifically, significant improvements were seen in urgency and urge incontinence in multiple sclerosis patients. There was a significant negative correlation of moderate strength within the multiple sclerosis cohort between baseline walking speed and subsequent change in ICIQ-OAB score (correlation coefficient of r  =  −0.40, P  =  0.046). Thus, greater changes in bladder symptoms were seen with lower baseline walking speeds.

Conclusion:

The results of this exploratory study suggest that functional electrical stimulation use does improve overactive bladder symptoms in people with multiple sclerosis. Further exploration is needed to study this association and explore whether the mechanism is similar to that of percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation, a recognized treatment for the overactive bladder.
Periprocedural outcome after laparoscopic partial nephrectomy versus radiofrequency ablation for T1 renal tumors: a modified R.E.N.A.L nephrometry score adjusted comparison
Authors: Acosta Ruiz Vanessa , Ladjevardi Sam , Brekkan Einar , Häggman Michael , Lönnemark Maria , Wernroth Lisa , Magnusson Anders
Published: June 2018

Background

Comparable oncological outcomes have been seen after surgical nephrectomy and thermal ablation of renal tumors recently. However, periprocedural outcome needs to be assessed for aiding treatment decision.

Purpose

To compare efficacy rates and periprocedural outcome (technical success, session time, hospitalization time, and complications) after renal tumor treatment with laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN) or radiofrequency ablation (RFA).

Material and Methods

The initial experience with 49 (treated with LPN) and 84 (treated with RFA) consecutive patients for a single renal tumor (diameter ≤ 5 cm, limited to the kidney) during 2007–2014 was evaluated. Patient and tumor characteristics, efficacy rates, and periprocedural outcome were collected retrospectively. The stratified Mantel Haenzel and Van Elteren tests, adjusted for tumor complexity (with the modified R.E.N.A.L nephrometry score [m-RNS]), were used to assess differences in treatment outcomes.

Results

Primary efficacy rate was 98% for LPN and 85.7% for RFA; secondary efficacy rate was 93.9% for LPN and 95.2% for RFA; and technical success rate was 87.8% for LPN and 100% for RFA. Median session (m-RNS adjusted P < 0.001; LPN 215 min, RFA 137 min) and median hospitalization time were longer after LPN (m-RNS adjusted P < 0.001; LPN 5 days, RFA 2 days). Side effects were uncommon (LPN 2%, RFA 4.8%). Complications were more frequent after LPN (m-RNS adjusted P < 0.001; LPN 42.9%, RFA 10.7%).

Conclusion

Both methods achieved equivalent secondary efficacy rates. RFA included several treatment sessions, but session and hospitalization times were shorter, and complications were less frequent than for LPN. The differences remained after adjustment for renal tumor complexity.
Does the Police-Monitored CCTV Scheme Really Matter on Crime Reduction? A Quasi-Experimental Test in Taiwan’s Taipei City
Authors: Lai Yung-Lien , Sheu Chuen-Jim , Lu Yi-Fen
Published: June 2018

Although numerous public closed-circuit television (CCTV) initiatives have been implemented at varying levels in Taiwan’s cities and counties, systematic evaluations of these crime reduction efforts have been largely overlooked. To address this void, a quasi-experimental evaluation research project was designed to assess the effect of police-monitored CCTV on crime reduction in Taipei City for a period of 54 months, including data for both before and after camera installation dates. A total of 40 viewsheds within a 100-m (328 feet) radius were selected as research sites to observe variations in four types of crime incidents that became known to police during the January 2008 to June 2012 period. While crime incidents occurring in both the target and control sites were reduced in frequency after CCTV installation, results derived from time-series analysis indicated that the monitoring had no significant effect on the reduction of property crime incidents with the sole exception of robbery. With respect to the effects of comparing target and control sites, the average Crime Reduction Quotient (CRQ) was 0.36, suggesting that CCTV has an overall marginal yet noteworthy influence. Viewed broadly, however, the police-installed CCTV system in Taipei City did not appear to be as efficient as one would expect. Conversely, cameras installed in some observation sites proved to be significantly more effective than cameras in other sites. As a recommendation, future researchers should identify how particular micro-level attributes may lead to CCTV cameras working more effectively, thereby optimizing location choices where monitoring will prove to be most productive.
Resource nationalism
Authors: Koch Natalie , Perreault Tom
Published: June 2018

Although ‘resources’ and ‘nationalism’ are core analytical categories in geography, the concept of ‘resource nationalism’ has received little attention in the discipline. We address this lacuna by reviewing relevant literature across the social sciences, and tracing key concepts and scalar frames to advance a critical approach to resource nationalism. In contrast to realist approaches, we understand it as a political discourse mobilized by a wide range of actors. Highlighting its multiple, co-existing, and often contradictory narratives about places, subjects, identities, and materialities, we illustrate the relevance of this critical framework with brief examples from Kazakhstan, Bolivia, and the USA.
Increasing the regulating ability of a wind turbine in a local power system using magnetic continuous variable transmission
Authors: Udalov Sergey N , Achitaev Andrey A , Pristup Alexander G , Bochenkov Boris M , Pankratz Yuri , Tarbill Richard D
Published: June 2018

The paper is devoted to investigations of dynamic processes in a local power system consisting of wind turbines with a magnetic continuously variable transmission. Due to low inertia of wind turbine generator rotors, there is a problem of ensuring dynamic stability at sharp load changes or at short circuits in an autonomous power system. To increase dynamic stability of the system, two algorithms for controlling a magnetic continuously variable transmission are presented. The first algorithm stabilizes a rotation speed of the high-speed rotor of a magnetic continuously variable transmission from the generator side in a local power system consisting of wind turbines with uniform synchronous generators with permanent magnets having equal moments of inertia. Undoubtedly, local power systems having only the wind turbines with equal mechanical inertia time constants are not widely used due to stochastic nature of wind energy. Therefore, wind power systems are combined with a diesel generator or a gas-turbine unit. Investigations show that the use of the only speed stabilization algorithm is not enough for such power systems, because there is a possibility for occurrence of asynchronous operation under specific power changes due to the difference in moments of inertia of generator rotors. Thus, the second algorithm uses the phase shift compensation in accordance with a primary generator in an autonomous power system consisting of non-uniform generators having different mechanical inertia time constants. As a primary generator, a diesel generator or a gas-turbine unit having a primary speed controller may be used. It should be noted that algorithms of stabilization for speed and phase angle are extended by an inertial circuit of aerodynamic compensation for torque of rotation from the wind turbine side to reduce loading on an energy storage unit of the magnetic continuously variable transmission at disturbances from the generator side and the turbine side.
The Impact of Different Validation Datasets on Air Quality Modeling Performance
Authors: Khreis Haneen , de Hoogh Kees , Zietsman Josias , Nieuwenhuijsen Mark J.
Published: June 2018

Many studies rely on air pollution modeling such as land use regression (LUR) or atmospheric dispersion (AD) modeling in epidemiological and health impact assessments. Generally, these models are only validated using one validation dataset and their estimates at select receptor points are generalized to larger areas. The primary objective of this paper was to explore the effect of different validation datasets on the validation of air quality models. The secondary objective was to explore the effect of the model estimates’ spatial resolution on the models’ validity at different locations. Annual NOx and NO2 were generated using a LUR and an AD model. These estimates were validated against four measurement datasets, once when estimates were made at the exact locations of the validation points and once when estimates were made at the centroid of the 100m×100m grid in which the validation point fell. The validation results varied substantially based on the model and validation dataset used. The LUR models’ R2 ranged between 21% and 58%, based on the validation dataset. The AD models’ R2 ranged between 13% and 56% based on the validation dataset and the use of constant or varying background NOx. The validation results based on model estimates at the exact validation site locations were much better than those based on a 100m×100m grid. This paper demonstrated the value of validating modeled air quality against various datasets and suggested that the spatial resolution of the models’ estimates has a significant influence on the validity at the application point.
Risk-Based Prioritization of Construction Inspection
Authors: Yuan Chenxi , Park Jaehyun , Xu Xin , Cai Hubo , Abraham Dulcy M. , Bowman Mark D.
Published: June 2018

In their pursuit of ensuring the quality and long-term performance of pavements, state highway agencies (SHAs) have established specifications for materials testing and construction inspection processes as critical components of their quality assurance programs. SHAs face a grand challenge, however, in the ever-growing gap between the demand for inspection and the available resources. Many strategies have been proposed over time to meet this challenge by optimizing the resource allocation process. A promising approach is to allocate limited resources to the most critical inspection items. This paper presents a novel risk-based prioritization approach for construction inspection considering quality, safety, cost, and time. Specifically, the risk is assessed in two aspects: the possibility of not meeting the specification requirements and the severity of the consequences. The scope of this study includes earthwork, concrete and asphalt pavement, and bridge decks. A comprehensive list of construction inspection items was compiled from the standard specifications and manuals of the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT), and narrowed down to a core set based on survey responses and interviews with INDOT domain experts. The resulting core set was aligned with the construction process, and INDOT expert opinions were sought to assess the risks and prioritize the inspection checklist. The resulting prioritized list can help INDOT and other SHAs nationwide to optimize their allocation of resources for inspection. Since all the inspection items are aligned with the construction process, implementation is straightforward: field engineers know not only what to inspect but also when to do so.
In-depth study of the microstructure of bamboo fibres and their relation to the mechanical properties
Authors: Osorio L , Trujillo E , Lens F , Ivens J , Verpoest I , Van Vuure AW
Published: June 2018

The mechanical properties of bamboo technical fibre, from the species Guadua angustifolia, have been studied showing values of strength up to 800 MPa and E-modulus up to 43 GPa, proving their adequate tensile properties that make this natural fibre suitable as reinforcement in composite materials. To fully explore the good mechanical properties and to make an adequate use of this new reinforcement, it is indispensable to comprehensively understand the fibre behaviour as a function of the microstructure. Microscopic observations have provided us with an extensive knowledge of the complex microstructure of this natural fibre from the macroscale down to the microscale level where different features like the distribution of the elementary fibres within the fibre bundle, dimensions and layering pattern of the elementary fibres and the main microfibrillar angles could be measured. The Young’s modulus of the elementary fibre is analysed based on the micromechanics of composite materials, commonly used for unidirectional short fibre composites, and the fibre microstructure. The predicted results are in reasonable agreement with experimental data, showing the appropriateness of the model for describing the elementary fibre stiffness. Also, the failure modes of single fibres after tensile testing are analysed by microscopic observations, to have an indication of the stress development in the elementary fibres and the different failure mechanisms.
Neighborhood Disorder, Social Support, and Outcomes Among Violence-Exposed African American Women
Authors: Pickover Alison M. , Bhimji Jabeene , Sun Shufang , Evans Anna , Allbaugh Lucy J. , Dunn Sarah E. , Kaslow Nadine J.
Published: June 2018

Intimate partner violence (IPV) against women, particularly those living in poverty who have multiple marginalized identities, is a significant public health issue. IPV is associated with numerous mental health concerns including depression, hopelessness, and suicidal behavior. The present study examined the ecological determinants of these mental health outcomes in a high-risk sample of 67 low-income, African American women survivors of IPV. Based on an ecological framework that conceptualizes individuals as nested in multiple, interactive systems, we examined, longitudinally, the main and interactive effects of self-reported neighborhood disorder and social support from family members and friends on participants’ mental health (i.e., self-reported depressive symptoms, hopelessness, and suicide intent). In multiple regression analyses, neighborhood disorder interacted with social support from family members to predict depressive symptoms and hopelessness over time. Neighborhood disorder also interacted with social support from friends to predict hopelessness and suicide intent over time. High levels of social support buffered against the dangerous effects of neighborhood disorder on depressive symptoms, hopelessness, and suicide intent; at low levels of social support, there was no significant association between neighborhood disorder and those mental health outcomes. Neighborhood disorder and social support did not yield significant main effects. These findings underscore the importance of interventions that target individuals, families, and communities (e.g., community empowerment programs). Group interventions may also be important for low-income, African American women survivors of IPV, as they can help survivors establish and strengthen relationships and social support.
Evaluation of the Moisture Transfer Property of Waterproof Breathable Fabric Under Low-Temperature Conditions Depending on the Pore Size and Distribution
Authors: Oh Eunkyung , Kim Eunae , Park Youngmi
Published: June 2018

The moisture transfer properties of four types of waterproof breathable fabrics with different pore sizes and distributions under low temperatures were examined. The structure, thickness, and pore shape of the fabric by scanning electron microscopy and capillary flow porometer compared depending on the manufacturing method. The effects of these parameters on the wearing comfort as determined by water vapor transmission rate and analyzing the temperature/humidity changes in the microclimate using the human–clothing–environment simulator. The coating type membrane was the thickest, whereas the nano web specimen was the thinnest. The results showed that at subzero temperatures, there was little difference in the vapor pressure change of the microclimate depending on the pore size. In the case of the waterproof breathable fabric produced in various forms depending on the function, however, the evaluation should performed based on the actual clothing wearing conditions, rather than in the standard state, is needed.
Electrical, thermal, and dielectric studies of ionic liquid-based polymer electrolyte for photoelectrochemical device
Authors: Dhapola Pawan S , Singh Pramod K , Bhattacharya B , Surana Karan , Mehra RM , Gupta Meenal , Singh Abhimanyu , Singh Vijay , Sahoo Nanda G
Published: June 2018

In this work, solution cast method was adapted for the preparation of 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium dicyanamide (EMImDCN)-doped solid polymer electrolyte. Optimum composition of polymer electrolyte (polyethylene oxide + sodium iodide) was treated as the host polymer. The ionic conductivity was further enhanced by adding low-viscosity ionic liquid (IL) EMImDCN. Electrical, thermal, dielectric, and photoelectrochemical properties of polymer host and IL-doped solid polymer electrolyte (ILDPE) are presented in detail. An electrochemical device, that is, dye-sensitized solar cell was fabricated using maximum conducting ILDPE film, which shows short-circuit current density of 0.118 mA/cm2, open-circuit voltage of 0.71 V, and overall efficiency of 0.061% at 1 sun condition.
High-performance polyimide nanofiber membranes prepared by electrospinning
Authors: Yi Bo , Zhao Yuntao , Tian Enling , Li Jing , Ren Yiwei
Published: June 2018

Polyimide (PI) nanofiber membranes were successfully prepared from a PI/N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) solution via electrospinning. This technique simply and facilely produced efficient high-performance PI fibers. The morphology, surface wettability, thermal stability, mechanical properties, and filtration performance of the as-prepared PI nanofiber membranes were characterized in detail. The membranes exhibited smooth and hydrophobic surfaces. The nanofibers were well distributed in the membranes with fiber diameters in the range of 140–400 nm. All the PI nanofiber membranes showed excellent thermostability, and their initial decomposition temperature ( Td) and heat resistance temperature ( THRI) exceeded 544.4°C and 198.8°C, respectively. The PI nanofiber membranes also possessed reasonable mechanical properties with a tensile strength and a Young’s modulus reaching 10.5 and 927.6 MPa, respectively. Regarding the filtration performance, the developed nanofiber membranes achieved the best filtration efficiency of 90.4%. Such electrospun PI nanofiber membranes can be a promising candidate for hot gas filtration.
Torsional dynamics and stability of automotive driveline considering cubic nonlinearity
Authors: Han Qingzhen , He Ren
Published: June 2018

Since the half-shaft is the main flexible part of the automotive driveline, the torsional dynamics of the simplified driveline considering the cubic nonlinearity of the half-shaft is discussed in the paper. The approximate solutions of the torsional shock response and the resonance response of the driveline are derived using the method of multiple scales. The stability and bifurcation condition of the responses are judged based on the Routh–Hurwitz criterion and the bifurcation theory, respectively. It is shown that the negative cubic nonlinear stiffness is propitious to suppress the torsional shock of the driveline while the positive is on the contrary. Meanwhile, the ability of the suppression of the torsional shock can be improved with the decrease in the linear stiffness. The resonance curve of the driveline may lose its stability when the value of the cubic nonlinear stiffness reaches the threshold. By properly designing the negative cubic nonlinear stiffness of the half-shaft, the instability of the resonance can be suppressed and the ability of the suppression of the torsional shock can also be improved.
Parallel intelligent algorithm analysis of optimization arrangement on mistuned blades based on compute unified device architecture
Authors: Zhao Tianyu , Li Hongxin , Sun Huagang
Published: June 2018

This paper sets up a parameterized model of engine-bladed disk system. Then a method of mistuned parameter identification is proposed, which consists of static frequency test of blades, dichotomy, and finite element analysis. Dynamic genetic ant colony optimization combined algorithm is presented which is used as a bladed arrangement optimization method. It combines the advantage of ant colony algorithm and genetic algorithm. By this way, the local and global search ability is introduced and the disadvantage of a single algorithm is overcome. The improved parallel algorithm comes up with graphics processing unit based on compute unified device architecture and its performance is analyzed. The results show that using optimization results can reduce the amplitude and localization of forced vibration response of bladed-disk system. At the same time, optimization based on compute unified device architecture framework can improve computing speed. Providing support for engineering application in terms of effectiveness and efficiency.
Science Education in India and Feminist Critiques of Science
Authors: Bansal Deepika
Published: June 2018

The ‘liberal’ feminist perspective on science problematises the presence of fewer women than men in science and believes that increasing their number would qualify as social change. On the other hand, ‘radical’ critics of modern science argue that science has been deeply involved in the creation, strengthening and subversion of gender inequalities. The liberal strand is much more amenable to direct interventions and aligns well with current educational reforms. But the fundamental questions about science and science education that are raised by the radical strand not just evade agreement, but they also do not lead easily to direct educational implications. In this article, I show that an engagement with these perspectives offers us a chance to reflect on our society, on the place of science in it, and on the role of science education in mediating between science and society. This reflection further encourages us to rethink and reorganise science and science education so that they are more mindful of the gender and other kinds of power dynamics in our society.
Exploring Curriculum for Science Education: Lessons from a Mexican Biosphere Reserve
Authors: Alonso-Yanez Gabriela
Published: June 2018

Exploring science as a collective undertaking embedded in sociocultural contexts is a critical aspect of science education. This article concerns questions of curriculum design for science education for young learners, and it reports findings of a study on a conservation and environmental education initiative in Mexico’s Sierra de Huautla Biosphere Reserve. Using situational analysis to study this case, I discovered that conservation projects and the science behind them are seldom framed as situated within complex social factors; yet these factors often drive decisions about the environment and can drastically affect what is taught in science curriculums. Presenting science in all its complexity can make science curriculums ‘live’ and can help students understand science as instrumental in addressing challenges that society confronts today.
Experimental validation of shape memory material model implemented in commercial finite element software under multiaxial loading
Authors: Khodaei Hamid , Terriault Patrick
Published: June 2018

Shape memory alloys are used in ever-increasing numbers of applications, such as implants made of porous shape memory alloys, where the material is subjected to complex loading conditions with various loading paths. Finite element simulation of such parts requires utilizing a constitutive model that is able to capture the multiaxial and path-dependent behavior of shape memory alloys. The main objective of this article is to investigate the accuracy of the constitutive model implemented in current commercial finite element software such as Ansys in predicting the shape memory alloys mechanical response under different multiaxial loading paths. To this end, several isothermal tests were conducted on thin-walled NiTi tubes with uniaxial, as well as multiaxial, path-varying loadings. The performance of the material model within Ansys was then investigated by finite element modeling of the sample tubes and performing simulations of the tests. Comparing the finite element results with experimental data, it was observed that while this model provided a close prediction of the uniaxial tensile superelastic response, it was not able to reproduce the multiaxial and path-dependent behavior of the shape memory alloy samples with sufficient accuracy. A brief discussion of the reasons behind the inaccuracy of the current model and potentially promising models for future investigation are provided.
Mechanics of nickel–titanium shape memory alloys undergoing partially constrained recovery for self-healing materials
Authors: Salowitz Nathan , Correa Ameralys , Santebennur Trishika , Dorri Moghadam Afsaneh , Yan Xiaojun , Rohatgi Pradeep
Published: June 2018

Engineered self-healing materials seek to create an innate ability for materials to restore mechanical strength after incurring damage, much like biological organisms. This technology will enable the design of structures that can withstand their everyday use without damage but also recover from damage due to an overload incident. One of the primary mechanisms for self-healing is the incorporation of shape memory fibers in a composite type structure. Upon activation, these shape memory fibers can restore geometric changes caused by damage and close fractures. To date, shape memory–based self-healing, without bonding agents, has been limited to geometric restoration without creating a capability to withstand externally applied tensile loads due to the way the shape memory material has been integrated into the composite. Some form of bonding has been necessary for self-healing materials to resist an externally applied load after healing. This article presents results of new study into using a form of constrained recovery of nickel–titanium shape memory alloys in self-healing materials to create residual compressive loads across fractures in the low temperature martensitic state. Analysis is presented relating internal loads in self-healing materials, potentially generated by shape memory alloys, to the capability to resist externally applied loads. Supporting properties were experimentally characterized in nickel–titanium shape memory alloy wires. Finally, self-healing samples were synthesized and tested demonstrating the ability to resist externally applies loads without bonding. This study provides a new useful characterization of nickel–titanium applicable to self-healing structures and opens the door to new forms of healing like incorporation of pressure-based bonding.
Using Online Meeting Software to Facilitate Geographically Dispersed Focus Groups for Health Workforce Research
Authors: Matthews Kristie L. , Baird Marilyn , Duchesne Gillian
Published: June 2018

Focus groups as a data collection method in qualitative research have been used for several decades with great effect. Recent developments in online mechanisms for communication have prompted several researchers to explore alternate means of facilitating focus group participation. However, much of the online focus group literature has explored the use of text-based communication; there are few reports on the application of real-time online video-enabled software. In this article, we seek to inform the growing use of online-meeting software-mediated focus groups by reporting and analyzing its application within the context of a health workforce study among geographically dispersed radiation therapy professionals.