bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cuban Agriculture and Food Sovereignty
Authors: Gürcan Efe Can
Published: January 2014

Civil-society-centric and globalist conceptions of food sovereignty neglect the fact that food sovereignty depends not only on the counterhegemonic conquest of civil society but also on (international) political society. A comprehensive analysis of the restructuring of Cuban agriculture shows that food sovereignty policies in Cuba are built on a fourfold strategy emerging out of a state/civil-society partnership at the local, national, and regional levels: the collectivization of land through agrarian cooperatives, the socialization of urban agriculture on the basis of participatory methods, the guaranteeing of local access to food through the establishment of free agricultural markets, and the transnationalization and solidarity of agroecological movements.

Los conceptos de soberanía alimenticia centrados en la sociedad civil y global descuidan el hecho de que dicha soberanía depende no sólo de la conquista de dicha sociedad sobre poderes hegemónicos sino también de la sociedad política (internacional). Un análisis exhaustivo de la reestructuración de la agricultura cubana muestra que las políticas de soberanía alimenticia en Cuba están construidas sobre una estrategia cuádruple surgida de un pacto entre el Estado y la sociedad civil a niveles local, nacional y regional: la colectivización de la tierra a través de cooperativas agrarias, la socialización de la agricultura urbana en base a métodos participativos, el acceso local garantizado a los alimentos mediante el establecimiento de los mercados agrícolas libres, y la transnacionalización y solidaridad entre movimientos agroecológicos.
The Synergistic Effect of State Regulation and Self-Regulation on Disclosure Level of Director and Executive Remuneration in Australia
Authors: Riaz Zahid , Ray Sangeeta , Ray Pradeep
Published: January 2014

This article examines how the introduction of a mix of state and market-based regulatory mechanisms representing formal and informal institutional elements, respectively, impacts disclosure level of director and executive remuneration in Australia. In doing so, our study steps beyond the simple state versus market dichotomy that the extant literature is primarily concerned with and proposes a symbiotic relationship between the two. The results of our study reveal that both state regulation and self-regulation as bundles of corporate governance can potentially join forces to ease agency conflicts. What is more, certain well-institutionalized organizational practices that guide agents toward self-regulation remain highly relevant and significant, even in the presence of pervasive state regulation. The synthesis of constructs borrowed from agency and institutional theories and its testing in an empirical setting of Australia verifies the significance of formal (state regulation) and informal (self-regulation) institutional aspects in addressing moral hazard agency conflicts. Our research provides insights for public policy makers as to how policies can be developed for good corporate governance. Particularly, in the context of current global economic crises, policy makers would be better off choosing those institutional mechanisms of corporate governance that complement the state regulation with self-regulation for the management and regulation of the modern global economy.
The Role of Interpersonal Influence in Budget Decision Making
Authors: Stenstrom Cheryl , Haycock Ken
Published: January 2014

This study determined factors which influenced Canadian provincial (state) politicians when making funding decisions for public libraries. Using the case study methodology, Canadian provincial/state-level funding for public libraries in the 2009-2010 fiscal year was examined. The data were analyzed to determine whether Cialdini’s theory of influence and specifically any of the six tactics of influence (i.e., commitment and consistency, authority, liking, social proof, scarcity, and reciprocity) were instrumental in these budgetary decision-making processes. Findings show the principles of “authority,” “consistency and commitment,” and “liking” were relevant, and that “liking” was especially important to these decisions.
Personal Names
Authors: Palsson Gisli
Published: January 2014

Because they are right under our nose, taken-for-granted, and essential to every person everywhere, personal names have often eluded the theoretical and analytical scrutiny they deserve. To what extent do naming practices exemplify or parallel the biopolitics of bodily inscriptions and markings such as tattoos, birthmarks, and presumed racial signatures? To what extent do names represent “technologies of the self” (Foucault 1988) in the broadest sense, as both means of domination and empowerment, facilitating collective surveillance and subjugation, and the individual fashioning of identity and subjectivity? Partly drawing upon indigenous contexts in the North American Arctic (Inuit and Yup’ik), this commentary discusses personal names and genealogies in relation to other technologies of belonging. Practices of naming, it is argued, are not only key elements of identification and personhood, embodied in the biosocial habitus much like other biomarkers, also they situate people in genealogies, social networks, and states. Clashes, I suggest, between different traditions and practices of naming, especially in the context of slavery and empires, illuminate with striking clarity the relevance of names as technologies of exclusion, subjugation, and belonging.
Baseline Characteristics and Latino Versus Non-Latino Contrasts Among Bronx A1C Study Participants
Authors: Walker Elizabeth A. , Silver Lynn D. , Chamany Shadi , Schechter Clyde B. , Gonzalez Jeffrey S. , Carrasco Jeidy , Powell Danielle , Berger Diana , Basch Charles E.
Published: January 2014

We describe baseline demographic and psychosocial characteristics of low-income, diverse diabetes adults enrolled in a telephonic intervention trial. Environment for the study was New York City (NYC) A1C Registry program. Baseline data were analyzed from 941 participants randomized to either telephonic/print or print-only intervention to improve glycemic control. Summary statistics for key variables were calculated; we highlight baseline contrasts between Latino and non-Latino participants. There were high proportions of Latino (67.7%) and non-Latino Black (28.0%) participants from South Bronx. Mean age was 56.3 years, almost 70.0% were foreign born, and 55.8% preferred Spanish language. Mean A1C was 9.2% and mean body mass index (BMI) 32.1 kg/m2. There were significant contrasts between Latino and non-Latino participants for behavioral and psychosocial variables. This telephonic intervention study succeeded in randomizing a large number of low-income, diverse participants with poor diabetes control who are under-represented in studies. Latino versus non-Latino differences at baseline were striking.
Using mobile technologies for social media based library services at the University of Development Studies Library, Ghana
Authors: Akeriwa Miriam , Penzhorn Cecilia , Holmner Marlene
Published: January 2014

Libraries all over the world are utilizing the latest Information and Communication Technologies to assist in their objective of providing clients with effective and efficient services, as well as timely access to needed information. The implementation of social media and the use of mobile technologies for service delivery are trends that have, however, not yet been fully embraced by academic libraries in developing countries in sub-Saharan Africa. This article reports on a study aimed at investigating the possibility of using mobile technologies to implement social media based services to graduate students at the University for Development Studies Library in Ghana. This article provides a short overview of the various technologies and services available, discusses the opportunities and challenges for implementing such services at the University Library, and provides a number of recommendations to support this goal.
Underestimation of Uncertainties in Health Utilities Derived from Mapping Algorithms Involving Health-Related Quality-of-Life Measures
Authors: Chan Kelvin K. W. , Willan Andrew R. , Gupta Michael , Pullenayegum Eleanor
Published: January 2014

Objectives. Mapping algorithms are being developed in increasing numbers to derive health utilities (HUs) from health-related quality-of-life (HRQOL) data. However, the variances of the mapping-derived HUs are observed to be smaller than those of the actual HUs. Methods. Two reasons are proposed: 1) the presence of important unmeasured predictors leading to a high degree of unexplained variance and 2) ignoring that the regression coefficients are random variables themselves. We derive 3 variance estimators of HUs to account for these causes: 1) R2-adjusted estimator, 2) parametric estimator, and 3) nonparametric estimator. We tested these estimators using a simulated dataset and a real dataset involving the EQ-5D-3L and University of Washington Quality of Life questionnaire for patients with head and neck cancers. Results. The R2-adjusted estimator can be used in ordinary least squares (OLS)–based mapping algorithms and requires only the R2 from the derivation study. The parametric estimator can be used in OLS-based mapping algorithms and requires the mean square error (MSE) and design matrix from the derivation study. The nonparametric estimator can be used in any mapping algorithm and requires leave-one-out cross-validation MSE from the derivation study. In the simulated dataset, all 3 estimators are within 1% of the variance of the actual HUs. In the real dataset, the unadjusted variance was 45% less than the actual variance, while all 3 estimators are within 10% of the actual variance. Conclusions. When conducting cost-utility analyses (CUA) based on mapping algorithms, the variances of derived HUs should be properly adjusted using one of the proposed methods so that the results of the CUAs will correctly characterize uncertainty.
Empowerment without Emancipation
Authors: Rivetti Paola
Published: January 2014

This article examines the centrality of political activism in the identity of Iranian refugees and investigates how they perform and incorporate it by considering the interlocked pressure of international politics, personal networks, and the assistance provided by civil society organizations. The case of Iranian political refugees in Italy and Turkey is of particular interest because of the international visibility of the Green movement, the Iranian people’s historical experience of emigration, and the fact that Iran is a subject of great interest for a number of human rights nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). It shows how the process of “being a refugee” works not only through classical forms of institutional pressure but also through “unexpected” forms such as NGO efforts to empower refugees politically. Despite the positive value attached to it, in this context political activism can force refugees into preestablished roles, such as “human rights defenders” or “Green movement activists.” Paradoxically, refugees act within a context that dominates them even when it tries to empower them.
Hybrid fiber reinforced polymer composites – a review
Authors: Sathishkumar TP , Naveen J , Satheeshkumar S
Published: January 2014

The polymer matrix composites have been widely used for many applications. These are light in weight and easy for manufacturing. The hybrid fiber reinforced composites have been prepared to enhance the mechanical, thermal, damping properties compared to single-fiber reinforced composites. The fiber reinforced hybrid composites consist of two or more fiber in a matrix system. The different fibers were reinforced with suitable matrix for preparing the hybrid composites using various manufacturing methodology. The hybrid composites are used for many application and replacing wood, wood fiber composites and conventional materials. The mechanical properties (tensile, flexural and impact), dynamic, tribological and water absorption properties of natural fiber reinforced hybrid polymer composites and natural/synthetic fiber reinforced hybrid polymer composites were reported.
The Attitudes and Perceptions of Older Adults With Mild Cognitive Impairment Toward an Assistive Robot
Authors: Wu Ya-Huei , Cristancho-Lacroix Victoria , Fassert Christine , Faucounau Véronique , de Rotrou Jocelyne , Rigaud Anne-Sophie
Published: January 2014

The purpose of this study was to explore perceived difficulties and needs of older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and their attitudes toward an assistive robot to develop appropriate robot functionalities. Twenty subjects were recruited to participate in either a focus group or an interview. Findings revealed that although participants reported difficulties in managing some of their daily activities, they did not see themselves as needing assistance. Indeed, they considered that they were capable of coping with difficulties with some compensatory strategies. They therefore declared that they did not need or want a robot for the moment but that they considered it potentially useful either for themselves in the future or for other older adults suffering from frailty, loneliness, and disability. Factors underlying unwillingness to adopt an assistive robot were discussed. These issues should be carefully addressed in the design and diffusion processes of an assistive robot.
The Role of Sexual Arousal and Overperception of Sexual Intent Within the Decision to Engage in Sexual Coercion
Authors: Bouffard Jeffrey A. , Miller Holly A.
Published: January 2014

Sexual coercion is a significant problem on college campuses despite numerous attempts to better understand and prevent it. Some criminological research has examined the role of sexual arousal in decisions to use coercion and force, while psychologists have studied how overperception of sexual interest relates to coercive behaviors. The current study combines these two lines of research to examine whether sexual arousal increases the perception of sexual interest in a hypothetical coercion scenario. A sample of 387 college males were randomly placed into arousal and control conditions and asked to watch either erotic material or a lecture and complete questions regarding a common social dating scenario. Bivariate and multivariate results indicated significant relationships between sexual arousal and overperception of sexual intent with the decision to engage in sexually coercive behaviors, as well as a mediation effect. The implications for theory and sexual assault prevention are discussed.
Elder Abuse and Neglect Risk Alleviation in Protective Services
Authors: Burnes David P. R. , Rizzo Victoria M. , Courtney Erin
Published: January 2014

Little is known about conditions associated with favorable elder mistreatment (EM) case outcomes. The fundamental goal of EM protective service programs is to alleviate risk associated with substantiated cases of elder abuse and neglect. Using the EM socio-cultural model, this study examined victim, perpetrator, victim–perpetrator relationship, social embeddedness, and socio-cultural factors predicting risk alleviation of EM cases. Data from a random sample of EM protective social service cases ( n = 250) at a large community agency in New York City were collected and coded by multiple, independent raters. Multinomial and binary logistic regression were used to examine undifferentiated risk alleviation for the entire sample of EM cases as well as differentiated financial, emotional, and physical abuse sub-types. Undifferentiated EM risk alleviation was associated with male victim gender, older victim age, previous community help-seeking, and victim–perpetrator dyads characterized by a separate living arrangement and shorter term abuse longevity. Financial abuse cases with younger perpetrators were less likely to have risk reduction. Physical abuse risk reduction was less likely when the perpetrator was male and the victim–perpetrator dyad included different genders. Distinct findings across EM sub-types suggest a need to develop targeted practice strategies with clients experiencing different forms of EM. Findings highlight a need to develop EM protective service infrastructure around perpetrator rehabilitation.
Participation in Roller Derby, the Influence on Body Image
Authors: Eklund Andrea , Masberg Barbara A.
Published: January 2014

Women's flat track roller derby consists of two teams vying for points played on an oval track, and wearing quad skates. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact participation in roller derby has on body image. An online survey was used to gather data from members of roller derby leagues ( n = 1597) in the United States. The survey contained quantitative questions from the Multidimensional Body-Self Relations Questionnaire (MBSRQ) along with qualitative questions. Based upon the data, a typical respondent was Caucasian, 20 to 40 years of age, heterosexual, married/domestic partnership, and has a post-secondary degree. The null hypothesis was rejected as there was a significant difference when comparing means of the MBSRQ prior to joining and currently. Certain MBSRQ scales indicated a negative correlation with BMI.
Global Ethnography and Genetically Modified Crops in Argentina
Authors: Lapegna Pablo
Published: January 2014

Drawing on fieldwork developed between 2003 and 2011, this article examines the expansion of genetically modified (GM) crops in Argentina and its consequences, namely, cases of pesticide drifts affecting rural communities. I compare cases in which peasants in northern Argentina protested against pesticide drifts (in 2003) to cases in which they did not react contentiously when facing environmental contamination (2009). I analyze these cases to address three issues that have not received enough attention in the scholarship on GM crops: First, the articulation of multiple scales, ranging from global to local; second, the variation within subordinate actors and their responses, oscillating between resistance and adaptation; and third, the environmental problems brought about by agricultural biotechnology, specifically the use of agrochemicals and its negative consequences. An ethnographic approach to GM crops can shed light on how the global project of agricultural biotechnology looks like when seen “from the ground.”
Tensile behavior of polypropylene/polycarbonate/poly(styrene-b-(ethylene-co-butylene)-b-styrene) ternary blend
Authors: Azizi Alireza , Arefazar Ahmad , Jazani Omid Moini
Published: January 2014

Polypropylene/polycarbonate (PP/PC), PP/poly(styrene-b-(ethylene-co-butylene)-b-styrene) (PP/SEBS) binary blends, and PP/PC/SEBS ternary blend were produced via melt blending in a co-rotating twin-screw extruder. The phase morphology, tensile, and impact behaviors of the blends were studied. Transmission optical microscopy and atomic force microscopy investigations of the necking region in tensile tests and scanning electron microscopy of tensile fractured surfaces were performed to characterize the fracture mechanism. In the PP/PC/SEBS ternary blend, core–shell morphology (PC particles as a core and the SEBS phase as a shell) was formed. Analysis of micromechanical deformation suggested that crazing occurred in PP and shear yielding did not occur during tensile tests. Rubber particles cavitation, shear yielding, and crazing occurred in both the PP/SEBS binary blend and PP/PC/SEBS ternary blend. Results showed that Corté and Leibler’s theory was unable to describe the effect of core–shell particles in these blends.
Synthesis and properties of polyimide nanocomposites self-reinforced with electrospun poly(azo-naphthyl-imide)/carbon nanotube nanofibers
Authors: Kausar Ayesha
Published: January 2014

Well-aligned poly(azo-naphthyl-imide) (PANI) fibers and PANI/multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) nanofibers-based nanocomposite were produced via self-reinforcement. High-molecular-weight 31 × 103 g mol−1 PANI has been fabricated in this study. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy showed that the electrospun PANI/MWCNT nanofibers were uniformly aligned and almost free of defects. The as-prepared well-aligned electrospun nanofibers were then utilized as homogeneous reinforcement to enhance the tensile strength and toughness of films. Compared with neat 3 wt% PANI nanofibers (304.6 MPa), the tensile strength for the film reinforced with 3 wt% PANI/MWCNT nanofibers (245.9 MPa) was considerably increased. The significant enhancement in the overall tensile properties of the PANI/MWCNT nanofibers-reinforced polyimide films was ascribed to good compatibility between the electrospun nanofibers and the matrix as well as high nanofiber orientation in the matrix. The thermal stability of PANI/MWCNT nanofibers-reinforced polyimide was also superior having 10% gravimetric loss of 599–625°C and glass transition temperature of 243–261 °C relative to the neat polymer and PANI nanofiber-based system. High-performance polyimide nanocomposites via self-reinforcement can act as potential contenders for light-weight aerospace materials.
Coeffect of different core–shell particles and β nucleating agent on the mechanical and thermal properties of polypropylene random copolymer composites
Authors: Li Youchen , Lin Fangqin , Cui Xiaoqian , Guo Weihong
Published: January 2014

The coeffect of β-nucleating agent (β-NA) and different core–shell particles (CSPs) on improving the mechanical properties and thermal stability of polypropylene random copolymer (PPR) composites were investigated. Different CSPs, that is, the regular POE/nano-calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and the novel PE/nano-CaCO3 CSP were prepared through melt blending. The transmission electron microscopic micrograph demonstrated that the core–shell structure was successfully prepared and the CSP dispersed homogeneously in the PPR matrix. β-NA was also introduced into the PPR matrix to control the crystalline structure. The results of differential scanning calorimetry, wide-angle x-ray diffraction, and polarization optical microscopy showed that the relative content of β-form crystal was greatly enhanced in the presence of β-NA. The results of the mechanical tests and thermal gravimetric analysis indicated that the comprehensive mechanical properties and thermal stability were all greatly improved, especially for the sample with the incorporation of both β-NA and PE/nano-CaCO3 CSP.
Mechanical properties of biaxial weft-knitted and cross-ply thermoplastic composites
Authors: Demircan Özgür , Ashibe Shinsuke , Kosui Tatsuya , Nakai Asami
Published: January 2014

Within the scope of experiments, two kinds of biaxial weft-knitted (BWK) fabrics with aramid (AR) and polyamide (PA) 66 stitch fibers were used as reinforcement systems to fabricate thermoplastic composites with PA66 resin yarn. Then, the final composite became BWK with AR stitch yarn and cross-ply. The mechanical properties of composites were investigated by conducting tensile and three-point bending impact tests on specimens. In all specimens, PA66 was commingled with AR yarn. AR was used as reinforcement. In preliminary studies, AR unidirectional composites with AR/PA66 commingled fibers and with various twisting angles were produced and appropriate twisting angle was found out by conducting tensile test on specimens. Due to the random multiple cracks that changed the fracture behavior of BWK composites with AR stitch, the tensile properties of the BWK composites with AR stitch became lower compared with the cross-ply. However, the three-point bending impact properties of the BWK composites with AR stitch fiber were higher compared with the cross-ply.
An ant colony algorithm for job shop scheduling problem with tool flow
Authors: Rui Zhu , Shilong Wang , Zheqi Zhu , Lili Yi
Published: January 2014

In this article, we present a developed bidirectional convergence ant colony algorithm to solve the integrated job shop scheduling problem with tool flow in flexible manufacturing system. In particular, the optimization problem for a real environment, including system make-span and waiting time for tools, has been approached by means of an effective pheromone trail coding and tailored ant colony operators for improving solution quality. The algorithm provides an effective integration between operation sequence and tool selection. A new principle of state transition probability is proposed with consideration of the waiting time for tools, and an optimization method of tool assignment is put forward. The proposed algorithm employs a machine decomposition method inspired by operations that are processed on fixed machines. The ant just gives the partial solution on one machine each time to construct the global scheduling solution with the previous solution on the other machines. This method performs well using the efficiency of ant colony algorithm for solving job shop scheduling problem. The proposed algorithm is tested by a series of simulation experiments, and interpretations of the results are also presented. Final experimental results indicate that the developed bidirectional convergence ant colony algorithm outperforms some current approaches in job shop scheduling problem with tool flow.
High-speed turning of AISI 4140 steel by multi-layered TiN top-coated insert with minimum quantity lubrication technology and assessment of near tool-tip temperature using infrared thermography
Authors: Roy Sougata , Ghosh Amitava
Published: January 2014

Minimum quantity lubrication technology is emerging as a potential alternative to flood cooling to effectively control cutting temperature during machining. In this study, an in-house developed minimum quantity lubrication delivery system has been used for minimum quantity lubrication delivery of cutting fluid at the machining zone. An advanced nanofluid coolant was also used for the purpose of minimum quantity lubrication. Different methods have been attempted to measure the near tool-tip temperature during turning of AISI 4140 steel with multi-layered coated insert under dry, flood cooled and minimum quantity lubrication cooled condition. It was further attempted to identify the best technique for assessing near tool-tip temperature. Infrared thermography has shown the closest result to that obtained through a finite element analysis (DEFORM 3DTM) simulation. Potential of multi-walled carbon nanotube–based nanofluid in minimum quantity lubrication application has been thoroughly investigated in this case study, where high-speed turning of AISI 4140 steel was carried out by a multi-layered coated carbide insert. Design of experiments, based on Taguchi method, was used to find out the significance of cutting parameters on machinability under nanofluid environment. Multi-walled carbon nanotube–based nanofluid was found to outperform the rest in all conditions.
Automated identification of complex undercut features for side-core design for die-casting parts
Authors: Singh Ranjit , Madan Jatinder , Kumar Rajesh
Published: January 2014

This article describes automated identification, classification, division and determination of release direction of complex undercut features of die-cast parts. The proposed system uses the concepts of visibility and accessibility to identify undercut features from a B-rep model of a die-casting part. The undercut features are then classified using a rule-based algorithm. Thereafter, the identified complex undercut features are separated into simple ones. Finally, the release direction for each simple undercut feature is determined and those having common release direction are grouped. The proposed system is implemented on case study die-cast parts, and the results are verified. This article would help bridge the design-manufacturing integration gaps in the die-casting process.
Experimental modelling and multi-response optimization of travelling wire electrochemical spark machining of Pyrex glass
Authors: Bhuyan Basanta Kumar , Yadava Vinod
Published: January 2014

The present study focuses on experimental modelling of travelling wire electrochemical spark machining process using coupled methodology comprising Taguchi methodology and response surface methodology. Experiments were conducted on Pyrex glass workpiece using L27 orthogonal array considering applied voltage, pulse on-time, pulse off-time, electrolyte concentration and wire feed velocity as input parameters and material removal rate, surface roughness (Ra) and kerf width (Kw) as output parameters. The multi-response optimization is also pe rformed using a coupled analysis comprising grey relational analysis and principal component analysis. The optimal process parameter setting demonstrates the enhancement of material removal rate by 154% and reduction of surface roughness and kerf width by 21% and 11%, respectively, against the initial parameter setting.
A systematic top–down approach for the identification and decomposition of product key characteristics
Authors: Tang Wenbin , Li Yuan , Yu Jianfeng , Zhang Jie , Yu Lin
Published: January 2014

Methodologies for the identification of key characteristics have been widely applied in quality management through the selection of critical dimensions and the measurement of variations. However, methods for both the identification and decomposition of key characteristics have not yet been developed, and more research is still required. In answering this need, a systematic top–down decomposition approach for the identification of key characteristics is proposed. The methodology of the identification and decomposition of key characteristics can be divided into two steps: first is the construction of candidate characteristics, and second is the identification of key characteristics. These steps are based on precise mathematical definitions. Initially, the necessary information for the construction of the candidate characteristics is obtained from analysis based on assembly-oriented graph, and that information is then conveyed utilizing feature adjacency matrix. A concept for a propagation chain is then proposed, and a search algorithm for an auto-generating propagation chain is obtained through feature adjacency matrix. The degree of influence of the candidate characteristics on the key characteristics is then defined. A formula is derived that can calculate the degree of influence by utilizing a variation model. Finally, the process of the identification of the key characteristics is achieved according to the relative degrees of influence. An aircraft boarding gate is presented in order to validate the proposed methodology. Two key characteristics of the aircraft boarding gate are identified, and the results indicate the methodology’s feasibility.
“Please Tap the Shape, Anywhere You Like”
Authors: Firestone Chaz , Scholl Brian J.
Published: January 2014

A major challenge for visual recognition is to describe shapes flexibly enough to allow generalization over different views. Computer vision models have championed a potential solution in medial-axis shape skeletons—hierarchically arranged geometric structures that are robust to deformations like bending and stretching. In the experiments reported here, we exploited an old, unheralded, and exceptionally simple paradigm to reveal the presence and nature of shape skeletons in human vision. When participants independently viewed a shape on a touch-sensitive tablet computer and simply tapped the shape anywhere they wished, the aggregated touches formed the shape’s medial-axis skeleton. This pattern held across several shape variations, demonstrating profound and predictable influences of even subtle border perturbations and amodally filled-in regions. This phenomenon reveals novel properties of shape representation and demonstrates (in an unusually direct way) how deep and otherwise-hidden visual processes can directly control simple behaviors, even while observers are completely unaware of their existence.
Aerodynamic and aero-acoustic improvement of electric motor cooling equipment
Authors: Vad J , Horváth Cs , Kovács JG
Published: January 2014

A radial flow rotor with radially aligned straight blades, used in electric motor cooling, has been considered as datum fan. The aerodynamic performance and acoustic behaviour of the datum fan have been measured, in order to establish a basis for redesign. As replacement for the datum fan, an axial flow shrouded rotor with skewed blades has iteratively been designed, involving computational fluid dynamics and computational aero-acoustics tools. The aim of redesign was reducing fan noise and moderating motor shaft power absorbed by the fan, while retaining the original cooling performance. Special flow features have been taken into consideration in three-dimensional axial rotor design, such as leakage flow in the axial clearance between the rotor shroud inlet and the perforated cover, and strong radial flow as well as deviation due to the motor shield located close downstream. The axial rotor has been manufactured via rapid prototyping. Measurements on the prototype confirmed the achievement of the redesign goal. The effect of axial clearance size on the operation of the axial rotor has been investigated by computational fluid dynamics, computational aero-acoustics and experimental means. It has been pointed out that the axial clearance size is a sensitive parameter in influencing fan aerodynamics and aero-acoustics, for which the major mechanisms, associated with the leakage flow, were qualitatively identified. Both the computational and experimental studies revealed the existence of an acoustically unfavourable clearance size, for which maximum noise emission can be expected. A semi-empirical model was outlined as starting point in prediction of cooling flow rate as a function of axial clearance size as well as other parameters.
Coarse water in low-pressure steam turbines
Authors: Cai Xiaoshu , Ning Deliang , Yu Jiangfeng , Li Junfeng , Ma Li , Tian Chang , Gao Wei
Published: January 2014

A novel integrated probe has been developed and has been applied to measure the amount of coarse water upstream and downstream of a newly designed stage in a model steam turbine, and also downstream of the last stage of a 350 MW low-pressure steam turbine. This paper presents the measurement principles of the probe and the measurement results in the two turbines. The measurements show that the velocity, flow direction, quantity and size of the coarse water droplets over the height of the blades cover a wide range. Based on this fact, a new way to reduce the size of coarse water droplets is proposed. Initial experiments using a model blade with a superhydrophilic surface coating confirmed that smaller droplets were formed.
An inverse method of designing the cooling passages of turbine blades based on the heat adjoint equation
Authors: Ferlauto Michele
Published: January 2014

A method of solution of the inverse problem in heat conduction is presented. The method, based on an adjoint optimization procedure, is applied to the design of the pattern of cooling passages inside turbine blades. For blade-coating technologies, the general case of a non-homogeneous solid material is considered. The numerical solution of both the temperature field and of the adjoint problem is based on a finite element method. The new formulation of the adjoint thermal problem is deduced for three different parametric representations of the internal cooling passages. This allows the designer to select the most adequate blade parametrization, going from blades with circular coolant passages to modern multi-holed hollow blades. The mathematical method, the adjoint problem solution and the enforcement of geometric constraints are explained and the procedure is validated against theoretical, experimental data and numerical solution available in the open literature.
Polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy and systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Chin YC , Bhargava M , Khor CC , Cheung CMG , Wong TY
Published: January 2014

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) associated with antiphospholipid syndrome can have ocular complications. We report a 44-year-old Chinese lady with recurrent relapses of SLE and antiphospholipid syndrome with high disease activity, presenting with visual distortion in her right eye for 2 months. There was subretinal hemorrhage in her right eye, confirmed on investigations to be choroidal neovascularization secondary to a variant of age-related macular degeneration known as polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV). Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy resolved her eye condition. SLE could be associated with PCV via common mechanisms, including complement pathway activation and vasculitis involving the choroidal circulation.
WORLD CLIMATE
Authors: Sterman John , Franck Travis , Fiddaman Thomas , Jones Andrew , McCauley Stephanie , Rice Philip , Sawin Elizabeth , Siegel Lori , Rooney-Varga Juliette N.
Published: January 2014

Global negotiations to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions have so far failed to produce an agreement. Even if negotiations succeeded, however, a binding treaty could not be ratified or implemented in many nations due to inadequate public support for emissions reductions. The scientific consensus on the reality and risks of anthropogenic climate change has never been stronger, yet public support for action in many nations remains weak. Policymakers, educators, the media, civic and business leaders, and citizens need tools to understand the dynamics and geopolitical implications of climate change. The WORLD CLIMATE simulation provides an interactive role-play experience through which participants explore these issues using a scientifically sound climate policy simulation model. Participants playing the roles of negotiators from major nations and stakeholders negotiate proposals to reduce GHG emissions. Participants then receive immediate feedback on the implications of their proposals for atmospheric GHG concentrations, global mean surface temperature, sea level rise, and other impacts through the C-ROADS (Climate Rapid Overview and Decision Support) policy simulation model used by negotiators and policymakers. The role-play enables participants to explore the dynamics of the climate and impacts of proposed policies using a model consistent with the best available peer-reviewed science. WORLD CLIMATE has been used successfully with students, teachers, business executives, and political leaders around the world. Here, we describe protocols for the role-play and the resources available to run it, including C-ROADS and all needed materials, all freely available at climateinteractive.org . We also present evaluations of the impact of WORLD CLIMATE with diverse groups.
The Sexuality Experience of Older Widows in Korea
Authors: Yun Okjong , Kim Miyoung , Chung Seung Eun
Published: January 2014

Sexuality plays an important role in elders’ lives. However, few studies exist concerning the essential meaning crucial for the overall understanding of sexuality in later life. In this study we explored the experience of what sexuality implied and meant to older widows using the descriptive phenomenological approach. Purposive sampling yielded 10 elderly women who were in sexual relationships. We collected data through in-depth interviews with participants and conducted a thematic analysis. The findings were classified into eight themes: trying to find another side of herself, starting a romantic relationship, invigorating life, displaying femininity, being concerned about the perceptions of others, enjoying sexual freedom, feeling the limit of sexual intimacy, and facing up to reality. The sexual lives of older widows entailed a process of recovering their femininity, self-achievement, and self-esteem, which helped them to live independent lives by developing more active and flexible attitudes.
Assessment of Vaccine Exemptions Among Wyoming School Children, 2009 and 2011
Authors: Pride Kerry R. , Geissler Aimee L. , Kolasa Maureen S. , Robinson Byron , Van Houten Clay , McClinton Reginald , Bryan Katie , Murphy Tracy
Published: January 2014

During 2010–2011, varicella vaccination was an added requirement for school entrance in Wyoming. Vaccination exemption rates were compared during the 2009–2010 and 2011–2012 school years, and impacts of implementing a new childhood vaccine requirement were evaluated. All public schools, grades K–12, were required to report vaccination status of enrolled children for the 2009–2010 and 2011–2012 school years to the Wyoming Department of Health. Exemption data were analyzed by exemption category, vaccine, county, grade, and rurality. The proportion of children exempt for ≥1 vaccine increased from 1.2% (1,035/87,398) during the 2009–2010 school year to 1.9% (1,678/89,476) during 2011–2012. In 2011, exemptions were lowest (1.5%) in urban areas and highest (2.6%) in the most rural areas, and varicella vaccine exemptions represented 67.1% (294/438) of single vaccination exemptions. Implementation of a new vaccination requirement for school admission led to an increased exemption rate across Wyoming.
Characterizing human herpes virus 6 following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Perissinotti Anthony J , Gulbis Alison , Shpall Elizabeth J , Howell Joshua
Published: January 2014

Background

Human herpes virus 6 reactivation occurs in approximately 50% of patients following hematopoietic stem cell transplant, however, the significance of human herpes virus 6 reactivation remains uncertain.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted analyzing clinical data of patients testing positive for human herpes virus 6 by quantitative polymerase chain reaction following hematopoietic stem cell transplant from 1 January 1998 to 1 October 2011. Data retrieved were used to describe the clinical course and outcome of human herpes virus 6 positive hematopoietic stem cell transplant patients.

Results

Sixty patients were identified who tested positive for human herpes virus 6 by polymerase chain reaction following hematopoietic stem cell transplant. A high proportion of patients were identified in this cohort with acute myeloid leukemia (28.3%), active disease (65%), transplanted with a matched unrelated donor (30%), ≥1 antigen mismatched (28.3%) matched unrelated donor, or an umbilical cord graft (25%), and those who received antithymocyte globulin (42.4%). Thirty-eight (63.3%) patients were treated for human herpes virus 6 with foscarnet alone or in combination with intravenous immunoglobulin, whereas 18 (30%) did not require treatment survival at Day 100 was 73.3%.

Conclusion

This study suggests human herpes virus 6 reactivation occurs shortly after hematopoietic stem cell transplant (median of 25 days (interquartile range, 20–31.75) after hematopoietic stem cell transplant). Many potential risk factors are described in this report. Treatment of human herpes virus 6 predominately consisted of foscarnet with or without intravenous immunoglobulin; however, treatment of human herpes virus 6 was not always warranted. Furthermore, the effect of treatment on patient outcomes is uncertain.
Modeling of global and local buckling of corrugated board panels loaded in edge-to-edge compression
Authors: Åslund Pär E , Hägglund Rickard , Carlsson Leif A , Isaksson Per
Published: January 2014

Detailed structural nonlinear finite element modeling of a sandwich panel with corrugated core is performed in this study. A simply supported panel is loaded in uniaxial compression well into the regimes of global panel buckling and local face sheet buckling. The highly nonlinear load versus in-plane and out-of-plane displacement responses obtained from finite element analysis agree reasonably well with experimental results, but the model slightly overpredicts the maximum load. The difference between experiments and predictions is attributed to damage of the corrugated paper web introduced during manufacture of the core and corrugated board. Computations of the buckling also results in a slight thickness reduction of the panel for a large range of face and web thicknesses identify lower thickness limits when the web loses its ability to contribute to the compressive strength of the panel. The highly nonlinear response associated with local and global buckling also results in thickness reduction of the panel.
Locally global
Authors: Veenhof Sander
Published: January 2014

In this article, Dutch artist Sander Veenhof shares his fascination for the rapidly expanding augmented reality (AR) sphere from an artistic point of view. With ‘AR’ being a merger of our physical environment and the omnipresent geodata reality, mobile AR in particular allows an unbounded reinterpretation of space, as will be addressed by zooming in on the geospatial aspects of a couple of recent projects.
Family background of modern health worries, somatosensory amplification, and health anxiety: A questionnaire study
Authors: Köteles Ferenc , Freyler Anett , Kökönyei Gyöngyi , Bárdos György
Published: January 2014

In the development of somatosensory amplification, health anxiety, and modern health worries, environmental factors seem more important than genetic background. Parental attitudes might represent a major source of learning. In total, 186 adolescents and their parents completed a questionnaire assessing modern health worries, somatosensory amplification, health anxiety, and somatic symptoms. Adolescents’ modern health worries, somatosensory amplification, and health anxiety were positively related to respective parental characteristics in regression analyses even after controlling for sociodemographic variables and somatic symptoms. Parental beliefs may play a role in the development of these characteristics.
The euro’s effect on trade
Authors: Sadeh Tal
Published: January 2014

This study argues that the euro area more than doubled trade among its members, but this process was delayed and fitful. The estimates in this article are close to those obtained by Rose and Frankel, despite the usage of methods developed by their critics. Furthermore, the euro area has increased the trade of its Mediterranean members more than the trade of other member states; it also raised trade with non-members by some 35%. The article innovates mainly by constructing a more appropriate control group to the euro area, applying better controls for the Single Market, estimating differences of trade, studying the effects of the euro on different member states, using quantile regression and naturally by relying on more recent data.
A new method of measuring and monitoring light pollution in the night sky
Authors: Rabaza O , Aznar-Dols F , Mercado-Vargas MJ , Espín-Estrella A
Published: January 2014

This paper describes a method of measuring and monitoring light pollution in the night sky. This method is capable of instantly quantifying the levels of artificial radiance and monochromatic luminance of the sky glow by means of a system that includes an all-sky camera as well as several interference filters. The calibration is done with an integrating sphere where the measurement pattern used is obtained from the light reflected from the inner wall of the sphere which comes from radiation emitted by a calibration lamp with a known luminous flux. The inner wall of this sphere is a Lambertian surface, which ensures that the light reflected or falling on it is uniformly dispersed in all directions (i.e. the surface luminance is isotropic).