bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of photovoltaic arrays efficiency for reduction of building cooling load in hot climates
Authors: Zubair Muhammad , Awan Ahmed Bilal , RP Praveen
Published: May 2018

This research work presents shading of building in hot and dry climate areas using rooftop photovoltaic arrays. Electrical power generation using photovoltaic arrays helps in reducing dependency on the utility grid. Areas with high intensities of solar radiation for a longer duration of time create high daily temperature. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) falls in high temperature and very low humidity climate zone. KSA has increased electricity tariff rates by 260% since 1 January 2018, has planned goals of generation of 9.5 gigawatts of renewable energy by 2030, and has ideas of constructing a self-sustainable city by the Red Sea. Energy analysis performed in this research is to calculate benefits of placing photovoltaic arrays on a rooftop of Buildings. These benefits include the electrical energy production and reduction of building cooling load by shading effect on a rooftop. By placing photovoltaic arrays on rooftop, up to 23% energy saving of cooling load can be achieved. The net annual output of photovoltaic generation per panel is discussed by adding energy generation and saving in cooling load of the building. The distance between the photovoltaic arrays is optimized for maximum benefits of electrical energy and saving in cooling loads.

Practical application: Photovoltaic arrays on rooftops for shading effect have practical benefits of energy savings in hot environment areas where high solar irradiance heat up the buildings. Photovoltaic arrays provide shading and energy generations which is a step towards zero energy buildings.
Experimental analysis and performance optimization of a counter-flow enthalpy recovery device using liquid desiccant
Authors: Liu Xiaochen , Liu Xiaohua , Zhang Tao , Xie Ying
Published: May 2018

The liquid desiccant enthalpy recovery is an efficient way to save energy in air-conditioning systems. In this study, a counter-flow liquid desiccant enthalpy recovery device was proposed and experimentally analyzed. Enthalpy transfer capacity, enthalpy efficiency and pressure drop per height of packing were used as indices to describe its performances. Based on the experiment results, the heat and mass transfer model of a packed tower was used to simulate and optimize the performance of this device. The maximum enthalpy efficiency and enthalpy transfer capacity were achieved when the optimal air velocity (1.9–2.1 m/s in this study) maintained to be slightly below the air velocity at the loading point and the thermal capacity ratio of air to desiccant ( m*) equaled to 1. These conclusions are valuable to both design and operation of such an enthalpy recovery device.

Practical application: A counter-flow enthalpy recovery device with liquid desiccant was proposed and experimentally investigated. Based on the experiment results, a numerical model for this device was built and validated. The optimal air and desiccant mass fluxes were analyzed to maximize the enthalpy efficiency of this device, which could be higher than the conventional device with cross-flow pattern. These results could provide guidelines for both design and operation management of counter-flow enthalpy recovery devices in liquid desiccant-based air-conditioning systems.
The Anticipatory Politics of Improving Childhood Survival for Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Jae Gina
Published: May 2018

Crediting scientific discovery for prolonging life is pervasive in biomedical histories of the genetic blood disorder, sickle cell disease. This includes the preventive strategies, such as newborn screening, that have underwritten the success of its life-extending interventions. Newborn screening is a technology that relies not only upon intact health infrastructures but also expertise and enhanced vigilance on the part of caregivers to anticipate complications while they are still open to circumvention. This paper posits that even after overcoming institutional barriers to make newborn screening equitably available, care and vigilance are resources that are themselves subject to what I term anticipatory politics, where structural conditions also stratify expectations for the future, including the affective appeal of medical innovations. This paper elaborates the paradigm of anticipatory politics through an ethnographic examination of newborn screening to connect the comprehensive care practices that have improved survival for sickle cell disease, and as the burden of mortality shifts to young adulthood, to expose how those who are resourced to care for these futures preferentially stand to benefit from preventive interventions.
The Intergenerational Assimilation of Completed Fertility: Comparing the Convergence of Different Origin Groups
Authors: Wilson Ben
Published: May 2018

Recent studies have highlighted the need for new research on intergenerational assimilation and how it varies for different origin groups. This article responds by studying the intergenerational assimilation of completed fertility in the United Kingdom. The results provide evidence of assimilation for some origins, in particular for women from Ireland and Jamaica. Yet results also show evidence against assimilation for second-generation Pakistanis and Bangladeshis. The ability of the method used to distinguish between origin groups highlights the importance of a robust statistical approach that takes account of heterogeneity, an approach that can also be used to study outcomes other than fertility.
The Immigrant-Native Gap in Subjective Well-Being in Western European Countries: Assessing the Role of Social Capital
Authors: Tegegne Mesay A. , Glanville Jennifer L.
Published: May 2018

Immigrants in Western Europe typically exhibit lower levels of subjective well-being than their native-born counterparts. We argue that because of disruptions in social networks and linguistic and cultural barriers to immigrant integration, social capital is a likely source of immigrant-native inequality in well-being. Using data from the first five waves of the European Social Survey, we find that social capital, measured by several indicators of informal social connections and generalized trust, explains more than half of the non-Western immigrant-native gap in subjective well-being that remains after adjusting for the standard predictors of well-being. Social capital also significantly reduces the smaller Western immigrant-native gap. In addition, we examine potential differential returns to social capital and find that immigrants and natives benefit equally from social capital.
Explaining the Impact of Formal Institutions on Social Trust: A Psychological Approach
Authors: Tamilina Larysa , Tamilina Natalya
Published: May 2018

By drawing on psychological models of action choice, this study distinguishes between four key factors that determine trust building: (a) knowledge to trust, (b) others-regarding, (c) cognition and (d) contexts. These four factors are combined into a single analytical framework that is used for establishing channels through which the institutional context impacts social trust formation. Our theoretical and empirical evidence suggests that context is the strongest determinant of trust, with its overall effect being, however, modified by the degree to which the individual’s knowledge of trusting, cognition and others-regarding is developed. The Programme for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies (PIAAC) data from the year 2012 are utilized for testing our propositions.

JEL: D02, D03, Z10, Z13
A Behavioural Theory of Allocation in the Dictator Game
Authors: Osório António
Published: May 2018

This article attempts to explain the behaviour observed in the dictator game without explicitly assuming a utility function. Alternatively, I consider the repre- sentative behaviour of a society composed of heterogeneous individuals in terms of altruism and self-interest. Based on these two principles, I present an allocation that aggregates the society's preferences. The result depends crucially on the value of the resource under dispute for the dictator. Even if the value of the resource is extremely important for the dictator, the dictator cannot justify a share of the resource larger than 3/4 of the total. An allocation proposing more than this share of the resource cannot reach social consensus. On the other extreme, if the value of the resource is sufficiently unimportant for the society, an equal split of the resource emerges in the limit.
Evaluation of direct oral anticoagulants and vitamin K antagonists in mesenteric venous thrombosis
Authors: Salim Saman , Ekberg Olle , Elf Johan , Zarrouk Moncef , Gottsäter Anders , Acosta Stefan
Published: May 2018

Background/aim

Mesenteric venous thrombosis is a rare lethal disease. The main aim of the present study was to evaluate clinical efficacy and safety of direct oral anticoagulants and vitamin K antagonists in mesenteric venous thrombosis patients.

Methods

Retrospective study of 102 mesenteric venous thrombosis patients treated between 2004 and 2017 at a center with a conservative medical first approach. Median clinical follow-up was 4 years.

Results

Computed tomography showed successful recanalization of thrombosis in 71% of patients on vitamin K antagonists and 69% of patients on direct oral anticoagulants ( p = 0.88). Overall major and esophageal variceal bleeding rate was 14.7% and 2.9%, respectively. No difference in major bleeding ( p = 0.54) was found between vitamin K antagonists and direct oral anticoagulants. No mesenteric venous thrombosis recurrence occurred during follow-up, and one venous thromboembolism occurred after cessation of anticoagulation.

Conclusion

Anticoagulation with direct oral anticoagulants and vitamin K antagonists was efficient in patients with mesenteric venous thrombosis. Bleeding complications was a concern during treatment in both groups.
A randomized Phase 2 study to evaluate the orexin-2 receptor antagonist seltorexant in individuals with insomnia without psychiatric comorbidity
Authors: De Boer Peter , Drevets Wayne C , Rofael Hany , van der Ark Peter , Kent Justine M , Kezic Iva , Parapatics Silvia , Dorffner Georg , van Gerven Joop , Beneš Heike , Keicher Christian , Jahn Holger , Seiden David J , Luthringer Remy
Published: May 2018

Background:

Seltorexant is a potent and selective antagonist of the orexin-2 receptor that is being developed for the treatment of insomnia and major depressive disorder.

Aims:

The primary objective was to investigate the effect of seltorexant on sleep efficiency after single and multiple dose administration in subjects with insomnia disorder without psychiatric comorbidity. Secondary objectives included evaluation of total sleep time, latency to persistent sleep, and wake after sleep onset. Subjects received 40 mg of seltorexant for five days during Period 1 and placebo during Period 2 or vice versa in this randomized, two-way crossover study. Objective sleep parameters were evaluated by polysomnography over 8 h on Day 1/2 (single dose) and on Day 5/6 (multiple doses). Subjective sleep parameters were assessed by questionnaires.

Results:

Twenty-seven subjects completed the study. The mean changes in sleep efficiency (% (SD)) of seltorexant from placebo at Day 1/2 were 5.8 (9.2), and 7.9 (9.8) at Day 5/6 ( p < 0.001 at both time points); in total sleep time (min (SD)) 27.7 (44.3) and 37.9 (47.1), respectively; in latency to persistent sleep (min (SD)) −18.8 (21.3) and −29.9 (27.7), respectively; and in wake after sleep onset (min (SD)) −11.1 (36.4) and −11.3 (46.5). The most common adverse events were headache and somnolence.

Conclusions:

Sleep efficiency was increased with seltorexant treatment compared with placebo. Treatment with seltorexant resulted in a prolonged total sleep time, shorter latency to persistent sleep and wake after sleep onset. There were no unexpected safety findings.
Clinical features and radiological characteristics of pulmonary cryptococcosis
Authors: Deng Hui , Zhang Jie , Li Jia , Wang Dongxu , Pan Lei , Xue Xinying
Published: May 2018

Objective

Diagnosis of pulmonary cryptococcosis is difficult. In this study, we examined the clinical and radiological features that increase the diagnostic accuracy for pulmonary cryptococcosis.

Methods

This retrospective study included clinical data from 68 patients with pulmonary cryptococcosis from 2012 to 2016 in 3 tertiary hospitals.

Results

Among the 68 patients, 39 (57.35%) had no complications, 39 (57.35%) had clinical symptoms, 6 (8.82%) had a history of occupational exposure, 27 (39.71%) had a single nodule/mass (the most common type of pulmonary cryptococcosis) on chest computed tomography images, 21 (30.88%) had multiple nodules/masses, 16 (23.53%) had ground glass opacity with or without nodules, 2 (2.94%) had miliary nodules, and 2 (2.94%) had enlarged mediastinal lymph nodes. Fifty-three (77.94%) patients had lesions with irregular margins, 33 (48.53%) had spiculated lesions, 32 (47.06%) had air bronchograms, 9 (13.24%) had cavities, and 4 (5.88%) had calcifications. Twenty-four patients underwent surgery, 35 received antifungal treatment, and 9 received both treatments.

Conclusion

The clinical features and computed tomography signs found in this study are not specific for a diagnosis of pulmonary cryptococcosis. Therefore, an increased awareness of pulmonary cryptococcosis is needed among clinicians.
Mechanism and influencing factors of proximal fibular osteotomy for treatment of medial compartment knee osteoarthritis: A prospective study
Authors: Qin Di , Chen Wei , Wang Juan , Lv Hongzhi , Ma Wenhui , Dong Tianhua , Zhang Yingze
Published: May 2018

Objectives

This study was performed to explore the mechanism of proximal fibular osteotomy (PFO) for treatment of medial compartment knee osteoarthritis (OA) and evaluate the relevant factors influencing the treatment outcome.

Methods

Fifty-two patients with medial compartment knee OA with varus deformities were prospectively selected. Radiographs were obtained preoperatively and postoperatively. Knee function and OA severity were evaluated using the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) knee score and the Kellgren–Lawrence (KL) score. Multivariable linear regression models were used to examine associations between increases in the HSS score and selected factors influencing knee OA.

Results

Sixty-seven knee joints of 45 patients undergoing PFO were included. The HSS scores were significantly better at the final follow-up than preoperatively. Regression analysis identified five factors influencing changes in the HSS score: the change in the vertical distance between the fibular head and tibial plateau, the KL score for tibiofibular joint arthritis, the body mass index, the inclination of the tibiofibular joint, and the preoperative HSS score.

Conclusions

PFO is a simple and effective procedure for medial compartment knee OA. Greater distal displacement of the fibular head suggests greater range of motion of the tibiofibular joint and more evident improvement of postoperative OA symptoms.
Median effective dose of nefopam to treat postoperative pain in patients who have undergone laparoscopic cholecystectomy
Authors: Kim Heezoo , Lee Dong Kyu , Lee Mi Kyoung , Lee Mido
Published: May 2018

Objective

Nefopam is thought to reduce postoperative pain; however, the evidence is insufficient. The recommended dose is 20 mg, and the median effective dose (ED50) in the surgical setting reportedly ranges from 17 to 28 mg. However, nefopam frequently produces inadequate postoperative analgesia. We evaluated the ED50 of nefopam as a single agent in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Methods

Twenty-nine patients were scheduled for laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Postoperative pain was evaluated using a numerical pain scale (NPS). When the NPS score was >3, patients were administered a predetermined dose of nefopam. The dose was calculated using the up-and-down allocation technique based on the previous response. The initial dose was 28 mg, with adjustment intervals of 5 mg. An effective response was defined as a decrease in the NPS score to <3 at 30 minutes after infusion.

Results

The ED50 of nefopam was 62.1 mg (95% confidence interval, 52.9–72.9 mg). Eight patients reported pain upon injection, and three were excluded due to severe injection pain and phlebitis.

Conclusions

The estimated ED50 was higher than the predetermined dose based on previous studies. We recommend that the dose of nefopam be chosen after careful consideration of individual variations and clinical settings.
Efficacy and safety of galcanezumab for the prevention of episodic migraine: Results of the EVOLVE-2 Phase 3 randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Skljarevski Vladimir , Matharu Manjit , Millen Brian A , Ossipov Michael H , Kim Byung-Kun , Yang Jyun Yan
Published: May 2018

Introduction

Galcanezumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody binding calcitonin gene-related peptide, used for migraine prevention.

Methods

A global, double-blind, 6-month study of patients with episodic migraine was undertaken with 915 intent-to-treat patients randomized to monthly galcanezumab 120 mg (n = 231) or 240 mg (n = 223) or placebo (n = 461) subcutaneous injections. Primary endpoint was overall mean change from baseline in monthly migraine headache days. Key secondary endpoints were ≥50%,  ≥ 75%, and 100% response rates; monthly migraine headache days with acute migraine medication use; Patient Global Impression of Severity rating; the Role Function-Restrictive score of the Migraine-Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire.

Results

Mean monthly migraine headache days were reduced by 4.3 and 4.2 days by galcanezumab 120 and 240 mg, respectively, and 2.3 days by placebo. The group differences (95% CIs) versus placebo were 2.0 (−2.6, −1.5) and 1.9 (−2.4, −1.4), respectively. Both doses were superior to placebo for all key secondary endpoints. Injection site pain was the most common treatment-emergent adverse event, reported at similar rates in all treatment groups. Both galcanezumab doses had significantly more injection site reactions and injection site pruritus, and the 240 mg group had significantly more injection site erythema versus placebo.

Conclusions

Galcanezumab 120 or 240 mg given once monthly was efficacious, safe, and well tolerated.

Study identification

EVOLVE-2; NCT02614196; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02614196 .

Trial Registration

NCT02614196.
Development of a Pavement Marking Life Cycle Cost Tool
Authors: Pike Adam M. , Bommanayakanahalli Bharadwaj
Published: May 2018

Pavement marking materials can be broadly classified into two types: durable and nondurable. The durable markings have a longer service life compared with the nondurable and, thus, need to be replaced less frequently. The material cost of the durable markings is higher compared with the nondurable markings. However, the durable markings have several benefits compared with the nondurable markings. Durable markings require less frequent striping resulting in less traffic delays faced due to marking installation and fewer accidents due to fewer work zone closures. The administrative costs associated with contracting and monitoring the work is also lower for durable markings due to less frequent contracting. The primary purpose of this project is to explore the cost differences between durable and nondurable markings, and how various factors can impact the life cycle cost of different marking materials. Researchers developed a life cycle cost calculator that considers the various costs associated with pavement markings to assist in comparing total costs of different marking materials. All costs associated with the implementation of pavement marking projects are considered, including material and installation costs, traffic delay costs and crash costs due to marking installations, and administrative costs to cover contracting and management of the pavement marking assets. This life cycle cost calculator would be another tool that decision makers could use to help choose the most cost-effective pavement marking for the selected input condition.
The impact of electromagnetic radiation (2.45 GHz, Wi-Fi) on the female reproductive system: The role of vitamin C
Authors: Saygin Mustafa , Ozmen Ozlem , Erol Onur , Ellidag Hamit Yasar , Ilhan Ilter , Aslankoc Rahime
Published: May 2018

The present study investigated the effects of applied continuous 2.45 GHz electromagnetic radiation (EMR), which might cause physiopathological or morphological changes in the ovarian, fallopian tubal, and uterine tissues of rats. We proposed that the addition of vitamin C (Vit C) may reduce these severe effects. Eighteen female Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups with six animals in each: Sham, EMR (EMR, 1 h/day for 30 days), and EMR + Vit C (EMR, 1 h/day for 30 days 250 mg/kg/daily). Total oxidant status (TOS) and oxidative stress index (OSI) levels increased ( p = 0.011 and p = 0.002, respectively) in the EMR-only group in ovarian tissues. In all tissues, TOS and OSI levels significantly decreased in the Vit C-treated group in ovarian, fallopian tubal, and uterine tissues ( p < 0.05). Anti-müllerian hormone levels significantly increased in the EMR group ( p < 0.05) and decreased in the Vit C-treated groups. Estrogen (E2) levels were unchanged in the EMR group, as the differences were not statistically significant. Immunohistochemical examination of the ovaries revealed significant increases in Caspase-3 expressions in the epithelial cells of the EMR group ( p < 0.05). In the EMR group, hyperemia was observed in uterine tissues. Also, Caspase-3 and Caspase-8 were significantly increased in the EMR group ( p < 0.001). Caspase-3 was significantly diminished with Vit C application in the ovarian and uterine tissues ( p < 0.05). Caspase-8 was significantly diminished only in uterine tissues ( p < 0.05). These results indicate that prolonged EMR exposure induced physiopathological changes in the ovarian, fallopian tubal, and uterine tissues due to oxidative damage. Under the conditions of this study, Vit C may have protective effects on female reproductive system against oxidative damage.
Something fishy? Underwater munitions and unexplained die offs in marine environments
Authors: Souchen Alex
Published: May 2018

In November and December 2016, local residents around St. Mary’s Bay, Nova Scotia, Canada, noticed something alarming: thousands of dead fish were washing up along the coast. Scientists from the Canadian government’s Department of Fisheries and Oceans investigated, but the cause remains a mystery. This research note excogitates a potential cause: dumped chemical and conventional munitions. Between 1918 and 1972, most industrialized countries disposed of surplus munitions at sea. As a result, hundreds of millions of tons of corroded ordnance now pollute marine environments around the world. The article then discusses various research obstacles impeding further scholarly investigations and the possible connections between underwater munitions and the mass death of aquatic life.
The long ‘lost’ history of bottom trawling in England, c.1350–1650
Authors: Jones Peter
Published: May 2018

This article considers the early history of bottom trawling in England. It demonstrates that trawling – and, in particular, beam trawling – has a very long history stretching back to at least the fourteenth century. Over the following two centuries it spread from the Thames Estuary along the south and south-east coasts, and by 1600 its use was widespread and it was being pursued some distance from shore. The article also shows that bottom trawling has always been a controversial practice, and that by the early modern period it was highly unpopular, not only among non-trawling fishermen (who viewed it as a threat to their livelihood), but with many in positions of power who sought to limit and even prohibit its use. Finally, the article considers the contemporary significance of this newly exposed history, given that historical complaints about bottom trawling were framed in remarkably similar terms to those used by its modern opponents.
Cellulose acetate/poly(vinyl alcohol) hybrid fibrous mat containing tetracycline hydrochloride and phenytoin sodium: Morphology, drug release, antibacterial, and cell culture studies
Authors: Souriyan-Reyhani pour Hamed , Khajavi Ramin , Yazdanshenas Mohammad Esmaeil , Zahedi Payam , Mirjalili Mohammad
Published: May 2018

The objective of this study was to introduce an electrospun hybrid fibrous mat (a dual-fiber drug delivery system) based on cellulose acetate and poly(vinyl alcohol) containing tetracycline hydrochloride and phenytoin sodium, respectively. Characterization of samples was carried by morphology, drug release, cell cytotoxicity, adhesion, antibacterial property, and wettability investigations. The results showed a uniform shape and a narrow diameter distribution of fibers (between 160 ± 20 nm) for fabricated cellulose acetate/poly(vinyl alcohol) hybrid fibrous mat. The tetracycline hydrochloride release from cellulose acetate significantly decreased due to gel formation of poly(vinyl alcohol) in aqueous media. The best fit for drug release kinetic of hybrid sample was Higuchi model. Sample with tetracycline hydrochloride and phenytoin sodium drugs showed improved cell growth, viability, and antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli (~89%) and Staphylococcus aureus (~98%) in comparison with sample without drugs. The hydrophilic property of cellulose acetate/poly(vinyl alcohol) fibrous sample containing the drugs was also remarkable (~45°). To consider the obtained results, the presented hybrid fibrous mat shows a high potent for biomedical applications.
Keeping It in “the Family”: How Gender Norms Shape U.S. Marriage Migration Politics
Authors: Longo Gina Marie
Published: May 2018

Foreign nationals who marry U.S. citizens have an expedited track to naturalization. U.S. immigration officials require that “green card” petitioning couples demonstrate that their relationships are “valid and subsisting” (i.e., for love) and not fraudulent (i.e., for immigration papers). These requirements are ostensibly gender and racially neutral, but migration itself is not; men and women petitioners seek partners in different regions and solicit advice from similar others about the potential obstacles to their petitions’ success. Using an online ethnography and textual analysis of conversation threads on a large online immigration forum where U.S. petitioners exchange such information, I examine how gendered standards of legitimacy are applied to family and sexuality and used discursively among petitioners to achieve genuineness and define red flags indicating potential marriage fraud. I argue that forum members police immigration requests even before cases reach an immigration officer. Petitioners use the formal criteria of U.S. immigration in ways that reveal gender ideologies, expectations for conformity to a gendered hegemonic family ideal, and sexual double standards surrounding sexual agency, fertility, and desirability. These intersectional norms shape members’ online discussions about the suitability of marriages and of the migration of noncitizen partners to the United States.
The cost of school holidays for children from low income families
Authors: Stewart Hilary , Watson Nick , Campbell Mhairi
Published: May 2018

School holidays can be stressful periods for children from low-income families. Poor provision of appropriate childcare, limited access to enrichment activities, and food insecurity mean that children’s health and well-being can suffer and their learning stagnate or decline. This article examines and documents the evidence that has emerged on this topic and aims to raise its profile and the impact on children’s lives. It makes the case for further academic scrutiny of this unexamined and neglected subject.
Crack growth analysis of carbon nanotube reinforced polymer nanocomposite using extended finite element method
Authors: Negi Alok , Bhardwaj Gagandeep , Saini JS , Grover Neeraj
Published: May 2018

In this work, the crack growth analysis of carbon nanotube reinforced polymer nanocomposite has been performed using extended finite element method. The equivalent properties such as elastic modulus, Poisson’s ratio, fracture energy, and fracture toughness of the polymer nanocomposites have been evaluated by varying the percentage of carbon nanotube in terms of weight (both single-walled carbon nanotube and multi-walled carbon nanotube) in the polymer matrix. The elastic modulus of the polymer nanocomposite has been evaluated using modified Halpin–Tsai equation. The fracture energy of the polymer nanocomposite has been computed considering carbon nanotube pull-out and carbon nanotube debonding as the main toughening criterion. In the extended finite element method, the crack faces are modeled by discontinuous Heaviside jump functions, whereas the singularity in the stress field at the crack tip is modeled by crack tip enrichment functions. The value of stress intensity factor is evaluated using the domain form of interaction integral. The level set method has been used to track the crack growth. The numerical examples with an edge and a center crack in the polymer nanocomposite are analyzed and the influence of various parameters such as percentage of carbon nanotube and the aspect ratio on stress intensity factor are observed.
Abdominal aortic aneurysm screening attendance: Effect of removing the examination fee
Authors: Linné Anneli , Hultgren Rebecka , Öhman Daniel , Törnberg Sven , Elfström K Miriam
Published: May 2018

Objectives

The organized population-based screening programme for abdominal aortic aneurysm in Stockholm, Sweden, started in 2010. An examination fee was initially charged, but later removed because of a policy change. We examined the effect on screening attendance of removing the fee.

Methods

The periods before and after removing the examination fee were compared with regard to screening attendance, overall, by municipality and by district.

Results

Screening attendance was 79.2% in the period with an examination fee and 79.9% in the period without an examination fee (p = 0.1787), with no significant change in screening attendance between the periods.

Conclusions

Although removing examination fees has been shown to have a positive impact on attendance in other screening programmes, we did not find this association in our study.
Hamlet and psychiatry intertwined
Authors: Rotstein Sarah
Published: May 2018

Objectives:

This article considers selected landmarks in the history of psychiatry and their impact on Hamlet productions, including Burton’s Anatomy of Melancholia, Emil Kraepelin’s manic-depression, Freud’s oedipal complex and R.D. Laing’s ‘divided self’. Additionally, this article considers the way Shakespeare’s Hamlet has influenced the course of psychiatry.

Conclusion:

The linkages between psychiatry and Hamlet have existed since the 17th century, and perhaps Shakespeare’s Hamlet should have a place on every psychiatrist’s shelf.
The Military Suicide Research Consortium Common Data Elements: An Examination of Measurement Invariance Across Current Service Members and Veterans
Authors: Stanley Ian H. , Buchman-Schmitt Jennifer M. , Chu Carol , Rogers Megan L. , Gai Anna R. , Wagner Richard K. , Gutierrez Peter M. , Joiner Thomas E.
Published: May 2018

Suicide rates within the U.S. military are elevated, necessitating greater efforts to identify those at increased risk. This study utilized a multigroup confirmatory factor analysis to examine measurement invariance of the Military Suicide Research Consortium Common Data Elements (CDEs) across current service members ( n = 2,015), younger veterans (<35 years; n = 377), and older veterans (≥35 years; n = 1,001). Strong factorial invariance was supported with adequate model fit observed for current service members, younger veterans, and older veterans. The structures of all models were generally comparable with few exceptions. The Military Suicide Research Consortium CDEs demonstrate at least adequate model fit for current military service members and veterans, regardless of age. Thus, the CDEs can be validly used across military and veteran populations. Given similar latent structures, research findings in one group may inform clinical and policy decision making for the other.
A direct numerical solution of time-delay fractional optimal control problems by using Chelyshkov wavelets
Authors: Moradi L , Mohammadi F , Baleanu D
Published: May 2018

The aim of the present study is to present a numerical algorithm for solving time-delay fractional optimal control problems (TDFOCPs). First, a new orthonormal wavelet basis, called Chelyshkov wavelet, is constructed from a class of orthonormal polynomials. These wavelet functions and their properties are implemented to derive some operational matrices. Then, the fractional derivative of the state function in the dynamic constraint of TDFOCPs is approximated by means of the Chelyshkov wavelets. The operational matrix of fractional integration together with the dynamical constraints is used to approximate the control function directly as a function of the state function. Finally, these approximations were put in the performance index and necessary conditions for optimality transform the under consideration TDFOCPs into an algebraic system. Moreover, some illustrative examples are considered and the obtained numerical results were compared with those previously published in the literature.
Ethnicity and higher education: The role of aspirations, expectations and beliefs in overcoming disadvantage
Authors: Khattab Nabil
Published: May 2018

The papers in this issue examine various aspects of ethnic differences in higher education. The first three papers, all of which focus on Britain, attempt to explain the very high motivation behind enrollment in higher and further education by ethnic minority students. These papers argue that investment in higher education is a defiance strategy that is used by ethnic minorities to counterbalance the effect of ethnic penalties. It seems that aspirations are still significant in shaping the educational attainment and are fuelled by the grim structural barriers facing ethnic minorities. The anticipation of labour market discrimination on the one hand, and the belief in the value of education as the main means for social mobility on the other hand, lead ethnic minorities in Britain to over-invest in education. The fourth paper tells a different story, in that immigrant students experience systematic disadvantages throughout their school careers including a much lower enrollment in higher education. These young immigrants hold more negative perceptions towards the value of education, not only in comparison with their Italian counterparts, but it seems also in comparisons with minority young people in Britain. However, in the last paper, the results resemble the British case, in that the second generation students hold higher academic expectations than their non-immigrant origin peers, and that these higher expectations are associated with higher levels of persistence and attainment. The authors here highlight the importance of the theory of immigrant optimism in explaining the between-groups differences. However, this theory does not seem to have strong explanatory power in the Italian case, if anything, perhaps ‘immigrant pessimism’ is a better theory to explain the low aspirations for higher education and poor educational attainment among immigrants in Italy. Of course, further evidence is required to substantiate this claim.
How do foreign initial public offerings attract investor attention? A study of the impact of language
Authors: Blevins Dane P , Ingram Amy , Tsang Eric WK , Peng Mike W
Published: May 2018

Language is increasingly recognized as having the ability to shape strategic outcomes. To understand language’s impact in entrepreneurial settings, we study language in the context of foreign initial public offerings, a setting where organizations may suffer from both the liabilities of newness and foreignness. Our sample consists of the population of foreign initial public offerings debuting in the United States between 2001 and 2014, which collectively raised over US$60 billion in capital. We find that both new ventures’ and the media’s language impact investors by influencing the level of interest in the foreign initial public offerings. We also reveal that the media’s use of analogies plays a pivotal role in familiarizing and legitimizing unfamiliar organizations. Overall, our study offers insights into the power of words in managing the challenges associated with the liabilities of newness and foreignness.
Latino/a/x Biblical Interpretation Related to the Hebrew Bible
Authors: Sandoval Timothy J.
Published: May 2018

Since approximately the turn of the millennium, Latino/a/x biblical scholarship on the Hebrew Bible has focused on: (1) questions of identity—both what constitutes Latino/a/x identity and what sort of scholarly work can be characterized as Latino/a/x biblical scholarship; (2) offering analyses of biblical texts that can serve as theological-ethical resources for exploring contemporary questions of migration; (3) development of Latino/a/x hermeneutic lenses and the reading of scriptures from these perspectives, as well as the development of interdisciplinary studies of the Bible that implicitly and explicitly critique aspects of dominant modes of biblical studies and introject a Latino/a/x presence in biblical studies; and (4) the resourcing of local Latino/a/x communities of faith through the publication of works focused on the educational needs of such local communities. Two or more of these trajectories of Latino/a/x biblical scholarship on the Hebrew Bible are often discernible in single published works of Latino/a/x scholars.
Exploring the Relationship Between Diversity Intelligence, Emotional Intelligence, and Executive Coaching to Enhance Leader Development Practices
Authors: Wittmer Jenell L. S. , Hopkins Margaret M.
Published: May 2018

The Problem

Leadership development is one of the most pressing issues for human resource practitioners within organizations. Recently, coaching to enhance emotional intelligence (EQ) has become a major focal area for human resource and leadership development. The concept of EQ has received overwhelming research and practical support, suggesting that it, more so than technical skills or cognitive ability, is the key determinant of success in leaders. However, EQ alone may not help leaders in creating an inclusive work environment and proactively recruiting and developing diverse employees.

The Solution

Diversity intelligence (DQ), recently introduced by Hughes, is another important skill that has significant impact on the interpersonal relationships at work. The current article seeks to integrate the concepts of EQ and DQ with a practical and strategic approach for human resource development professionals. A theoretical review, qualitative examination, and practical application of the main models of EQ with a focus on how specific components of these models can be utilized in coaching for increased DQ is presented. Using concepts of executive coaching and general principles of leadership development, the current study examines which facets, or dimensions, of EQ should be highlighted and developed to increase DQ.

The Stakeholders

In addition to identifying which facets of each EQ model are essential for DQ, practical applications for human resource development practitioners and leaders are presented.
At Least Bias Is Bipartisan: A Meta-Analytic Comparison of Partisan Bias in Liberals and Conservatives
Authors: Ditto Peter H. , Liu Brittany S. , Clark Cory J. , Wojcik Sean P. , Chen Eric E. , Grady Rebecca H. , Celniker Jared B. , Zinger Joanne F.
Published: May 2018

Both liberals and conservatives accuse their political opponents of partisan bias, but is there empirical evidence that one side of the political aisle is indeed more biased than the other? To address this question, we meta-analyzed the results of 51 experimental studies, involving over 18,000 participants, that examined one form of partisan bias—the tendency to evaluate otherwise identical information more favorably when it supports one’s political beliefs or allegiances than when it challenges those beliefs or allegiances. Two hypotheses based on previous literature were tested: an asymmetry hypothesis (predicting greater partisan bias in conservatives than in liberals) and a symmetry hypothesis (predicting equal levels of partisan bias in liberals and conservatives). Mean overall partisan bias was robust ( r = .245), and there was strong support for the symmetry hypothesis: Liberals ( r = .235) and conservatives ( r = .255) showed no difference in mean levels of bias across studies. Moderator analyses reveal this pattern to be consistent across a number of different methodological variations and political topics. Implications of the current findings for the ongoing ideological symmetry debate and the role of partisan bias in scientific discourse and political conflict are discussed.
Glucose-Responsive Microneedle Patches for Diabetes Treatment
Authors: Chen Guojun , Yu Jicheng , Gu Zhen
Published: May 2018

Antidiabetic therapeutics, including insulin as well as glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) and its analogs, are essential for people with diabetes to regulate their blood glucose levels. Nevertheless, conventional treatments based on hypodermic administration is commonly associated with poor blood glucose control, a lack of patient compliance, and a high risk of hypoglycemia. Closed-loop drug delivery strategies, also known as self-regulated administration, which can intelligently govern the drug release kinetics in response to the fluctuation in blood glucose levels, show tremendous promise in diabetes therapy. In the meantime, the advances in the development and use of microneedle (MN)-array patches for transdermal drug delivery offer an alternative method to conventional hypodermic administration. Hence, glucose-responsive MN-array patches for the treatment of diabetes have attracted increasing attentions in recent years. This review summarizes recent advances in glucose-responsive MN-array patch systems. Their opportunities and challenges for clinical translation are also discussed.
Socioeconomic Factors for Sports Specialization and Injury in Youth Athletes
Authors: Jayanthi Neeru A. , Holt Daniel B. , LaBella Cynthia R. , Dugas Lara R.
Published: May 2018

Background:

The effect of socioeconomic status (SES) on rates of sports specialization and injury among youth athletes has not been described previously.

Hypothesis:

Young athletes from lower socioeconomic status will have lower rates of sports specialization and subsequently lower risk of overuse injuries.

Study Design:

Cohort study.

Level of Evidence:

Level 3.

Methods:

Injured athletes aged 7 to 18 years were recruited from 2 hospital-based sports medicine clinics and compared with uninjured athletes presenting for sports physicals at primary care clinics between 2010 and 2013. Participants completed surveys on training patterns. Electronic medical records provided injury details as well as patient zip code, race, and health insurance type. SES was estimated from zip codes. The sample was divided into SES tertiles. Analysis of variance and multivariate regression were used for continuous variables, and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to explore relationships between risk factors and injury.

Results:

Of 1190 athletes surveyed, 1139 (96%) had satisfactory SES data. Compared with low-SES athletes, high-SES athletes reported more hours per week spent playing organized sports (11.2 ± 6.0 vs 10.0 ± 6.5; P = 0.02), trained more months per year in their main sport (9.7 ± 3.1 vs 7.6 ± 3.7; P < 0.01), were more often highly specialized (38.9% vs 16.6%; P < 0.01), and had increased participation in individual sports (64.8% vs 40.0%; P < 0.01). The proportion of athletes with a greater than 2:1 ratio of weekly hours in organized sports to free play increased with SES. Accounting for age and weekly organized sports hours, the odds of reporting a serious overuse injury increased with SES (odds ratio, 1.5; P < 0.01).

Conclusion:

High-SES athletes reported more serious overuse injuries than low-SES athletes, potentially due to higher rates of sports specialization, more hours per week playing organized sports, higher ratio of weekly hours in organized sports to free play, and greater participation in individual sports.

Clinical Relevance:

As SES increases, young athletes report higher degrees of sports specialization, greater participation in individual sports, and more serious overuse injuries.
Reports of Recovered Memories of Abuse in Therapy in a Large Age-Representative U.S. National Sample: Therapy Type and Decade Comparisons
Authors: Patihis Lawrence , Pendergrast Mark H.
Published: May 2018

The potential hazards of endeavoring to recover ostensibly repressed memories of abuse in therapy have previously been documented. Yet no large survey of the general public about memory recovery in therapy has been conducted. In an age-representative sample of 2,326 adults in the United States, we found that 9% (8% weighted to be representative) of the total sample reported seeing therapists who discussed the possibility of repressed abuse, and 5% (4% weighted) reported recovering memories of abuse in therapy for which they had no previous memory. Participants who reported therapists discussing the possibility of repressed memories of abuse were 20 times more likely to report recovered abuse memories than those who did not. Recovered memories of abuse were associated with most therapy types, and most associated with those who reported starting therapy in the 1990s. We discuss possible problems with such purported memory recovery and make recommendations for clinical training.
Governance for green urbanisation: Lessons from Singapore’s green building certification scheme
Authors: Han Heejin
Published: May 2018

As more and more Asian countries join the global urbanisation trend, numerous negative environmental consequences loom larger than ever, rendering green urbanisation an urgent public policy agenda. This study addresses how Singapore has met this challenge and established itself as one of the world’s greenest urban centres through the implementation of the Green Mark Scheme since 2005. Drawing on the new urban governance literature, this study argues that several conditions have enabled this result. First, the government has steered the design and promotion of the Green Mark Scheme, introducing various legal and regulatory mechanisms to undergird the Green Mark Scheme regime. Second, various financial incentive schemes, risk-sharing programmes and rewards have made the government’s commitment credible, lowering entry barriers for new participants. While these policy instruments and measures echo Singapore’s top–down policy-making tradition and developmental state legacy, the government has increasingly relied on collaborative partnerships with multiple stakeholders to generate positive environmental impacts throughout buildings’ entire life cycles. These elements have created an effective mode of new green urban governance. This study illustrates how policy-makers can facilitate sustainable urbanisation by adopting green initiatives tailored to their local conditions. Moreover, this study argues that green urbanisation entails not just technical aspects but also governance elements.