bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Statistical Constitutive Model considering Deterioration for Brittle Rocks under a Coupled Thermal-Mechanical Condition
Authors: Gao Meiben , Li Tianbin , Wei Tao , Meng Lubo
Published: July 2018

Due to active actions of groundwater and geothermal, the stability of underground engineering is important during geological structure active area. The damage mechanical theory and statistical mesoscopic strength theory based on Weibull distribution are widely used to discuss constitutive behaviors of rocks. In these theories, a statistical method is used to capture mesoscopic properties of rocks in order to generate a realistic behavior at a macroscopic scale. Based on the above theories, this paper aims at establishing a constitutive relation of brittle rocks under thermal-mechanical coupling conditions. First, a statistical damage constitutive model was established by considering the thermal effects and crack initiation strength. Subsequently, the parameters of the model were determined and expressed according to the characteristics of stress-strain curve. Third, the model was verified by conventional triaxial experiments under thermal-mechanical actions, and the experimental data and theoretical results were compared and analyzed in the case study. Finally, the physical meaning of the parameters and their effects on the model performance were discussed.
Solution of Quadratic Programming with Interval Variables Using a Two-Level Programming Approach
Authors: Syaripuddin  , Suprajitno Herry , Fatmawati
Published: July 2018

Quadratic programming with interval variables is developed from quadratic programming with interval coefficients to obtain optimum solution in interval form, both the optimum point and optimum value. In this paper, a two-level programming approach is used to solve quadratic programming with interval variables. Procedure of two-level programming is transforming the quadratic programming model with interval variables into a pair of classical quadratic programming models, namely, the best optimum and worst optimum problems. The procedure to solve the best and worst optimum problems is also constructed to obtain optimum solution in interval form.
A Qualitative Analysis of Dental Photography in Orthodontics: The Patient’s Perspective
Authors: Çifter Muhsin
Published: July 2018

Purpose. Dental photography is an essential part of orthodontic treatment. It is used during all stages, and many components can affect the image quality. During the procedure, attendants and the patient must often work together to obtain high-quality images. These aspects likely influence the patient’s experience, which is important in today’s healthcare services. This study qualitatively investigated the effects of dental photography procedures on the patient experience.Methods. This research used a qualitative approach that included both observational and interview methods. Twenty patients (16-20 years old) underwent dental photography for the first time at the initial stage of orthodontic treatment.Results. The lack of detailed information regarding the procedure and the appearance of the intraoral mirrors and retractors were primary causes of patient stress prior to the procedure. During the procedure, the mirrors and retractors caused pain for most patients. The inefficient designs and lack of compatibility between the items used were the primary reasons for patient complaints.Conclusions. Patients must be informed in advance and in detail about the procedure and the equipment to be used. Improved designs for the camera flash system and the intraoral equipment are needed to maximize both patient satisfaction and image quality.
MRI-Based Quantification of Magnetic Susceptibility in Gel Phantoms: Assessment of Measurement and Calculation Accuracy
Authors: Olsson Emma , Wirestam Ronnie , Lind Emelie
Published: July 2018

The local magnetic field inside and around an object in a magnetic resonance imaging unit depends on the magnetic susceptibility of the object being magnetized, in combination with its geometry/orientation. Magnetic susceptibility can thus be exploited as a source of tissue contrast, and susceptibility imaging may also become a useful tool in contrast agent quantification and for assessment of venous oxygen saturation levels. In this study, the accuracy of an established procedure for quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) was investigated. Three gel phantoms were constructed with cylinders of varying susceptibility and geometry. Experimental results were compared with simulated and analytically calculated data. An expected linear relationship between estimated susceptibility and concentration of contrast agent was observed. Less accurate QSM-based susceptibility values were observed for cylindrical objects at angles, relative to the main magnetic field, that were close to or larger than the magic angle. Results generally improved for large objects/high spatial resolution and large volume coverage. For simulated phase maps, accurate susceptibility quantification by QSM was achieved also for more challenging geometries. The investigated QSM algorithm was generally robust to changes in measurement and calculation parameters, but experimental phase data of sufficient quality may be difficult to obtain in certain geometries.
Interferon-γ and Interleukin-10 Responses during Clinical Malaria Episodes in Infants Aged 0–2 Years Prenatally Exposed to Plasmodium falciparum: Tanzanian Birth Cohort
Authors: Sylvester Boniphace , Gasarasi Dinah B. , Aboud Said , Tarimo Donath , Masawe Siriel , Mpembeni Rose , Swedberg Göte
Published: July 2018

Background. Infants born to mothers with placental malaria are prenatally exposed to Plasmodium falciparum antigens. However, the effect of that exposure to subsequent immune responses has not been fully elucidated. This study aimed at determining the effect of prenatal exposure to P. falciparum on Interleukin-10 and Interferon-γ responses during clinical malaria episodes in the first 24 months of life. Methods. This prospective cohort study involved 215 infants aged 0-2 years born to mothers with or without placental malaria. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to determine levels of IL-10 and IFN-γ in infants and detect IgM in cord blood. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20. Findings. Geometric mean for IFN-γ in exposed infants was 557.9 pg/ml (95% CI: 511.6-604.1) and in unexposed infants it was 634.4 pg/ml (95% CI: 618.2-668.5) (P=0.02). Mean IL-10 was 22.4 pg/ml (95% CI: 19.4-28.4) and 15.1 pg/ml (95%CI: 12.4-17.6), respectively (P=0.01). Conclusions. Prenatal exposure to P. falciparum antigens significantly affects IL-10 and IFN-γ responses during clinical malaria episodes in the first two years of life.
Comparative Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practice of Breast Self-Examination among Female Secondary and Tertiary School Students in Ghana
Authors: Fondjo Linda Ahenkorah , Owusu-Afriyie Osei , Sakyi Samuel Asamoah , Wiafe Akua Addo , Amankwaa Bright , Acheampong Emmanuel , Ephraim Richard K. D. , Owiredu William K. B. A.
Published: July 2018

Background. Breast cancer remains a serious public health problem globally. It is particularly increasing among adolescents and premenopausal women. Breast self-examination (BSE) is the most effective and feasible means of detecting breast cancer early in developing countries. This study aimed at evaluating and comparing knowledge of BSE among secondary and tertiary school students and at revealing their attitudes and practices about BSE. Method. This cross-sectional study was conducted among 1036 female secondary and tertiary school students of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology and Technology Senior High School. Data was obtained using a pretested questionnaire to access sociodemography, knowledge, attitudes, and practice of BSE among the students. Result. Most students were within the age of 15–24 years; 90.9% were aware of BSE. A high level of knowledge on BSE was found in 54.5% of the students. Knowledge was significantly higher in tertiary than secondary school students (p=0.002). 24.1% of the students thought BSE could be performed anytime; however only 8.1% of the students performed BSE monthly as recommended, whilst 41.8% had never practiced. Of these, more secondary students had never practiced BSE as compared to the tertiary students. 22.3% indicated they would wait for a change in a detected breast lump before seeking medical attention. 96.3% of the participants agree BSE is a good practice which must be encouraged. Conclusion. Teaching of BSE should be intensified beginning at the high school level, emphasizing practice and its benefits for early detection of breast cancer.
Case Report and Literature Review Illustrating the Clinical, Endoscopic, Radiologic, and Histopathologic Findings with Prepouch Ileitis after IPAA and Restorative Proctocolectomy for Refractory Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Shams Christienne , Hakim Seifeldin , Amin Mitual , Cappell Mitchell S.
Published: July 2018

Prepouch ileitis (PI) is an uncommon complication of ileal pouch anal anastomosis (IPAA) and restorative proctocolectomy (RPC) for treatment of refractory ulcerative colitis (UC). A case is reported of PI in a 16-year-old girl who presented with severe UC that was initially stabilized with infliximab therapy but re-presented 1 year later with severe UC, refractory to infliximab and corticosteroid therapy, which required IPAA and RPC. Her symptoms resolved postoperatively, but she re-presented 1 year later with 10 loose, bloody, bowel movements/day and involuntary 6-Kg weight-loss. Computerized tomographic enterography showed focal narrowing and mucosal enhancement of the pouch and focal narrowing, abnormal mucosal enhancement, and mural thickening of the prepouch ileum. Pouchoscopy revealed exudates and ulcerations in both the pouch and prepouch ileum up to 50 cm proximal to pouch, as confirmed by histopathology of pouch and ileal biopsies. Capsule endoscopy revealed no small intestinal lesions beyond 50 cm from the pouch. She required antibiotics, hydrocortisone enemas, and eventually azathioprine to control her symptoms. She remains asymptomatic 4 years later while chronically administered azathioprine therapy. Comprehensive literature review demonstrates that this case illustrates the classical clinical, radiologic, endoscopic, and histopathologic findings in PI, a relatively rare syndrome.
Impact of a Lower Conservation Budget on Road Safety Indices
Authors: Rojo M. , Gonzalo-Orden H. , Linares A. , dell’Olio L.
Published: July 2018

Over the past few years, several countries, including Spain, have been experiencing a period of economic recession. As a result, these governments have reduced their budgets for transport infrastructures (both construction and maintenance operations). The main objective of this study is to analyze whether these budget reductions have an effect on increased accident rates and to perform an assessment of their real economic benefit. Thus, we analyze whether significant changes over recent years are perceptible in the road safety indexes in Spain, in terms of risk, accident fatality, and accident severity. The relation between lower budgets and higher road safety indices is analyzed through linear regression techniques. The results show a strong relation between the Risk Index and the maintenance budget, measured as an average of the last years. In addition, a final economic assessment demonstrates that this reduction in investment had no real economic benefits, especially as the costs of the accidents exceeded the savings in the conservation plans.
Marx and Critical Theory
Authors: Renault Emmanuel
Published: July 2018

Marx and Critical Theoryexamines Marx’s main philosophical, political and social theoretical ideas. Its purpose is twofold: making sense of the concepts and theses of Marx, and showing that they remain relevant for contemporary critical theory. Part 1 focuses on Marx’s conception of philosophy. Part 2 analyses the Marxian primacy of the practical. Part 3 is devoted toCapitaland the critique of political economy. This book will be useful for those who want to deepen their understanding of Marx’s main ideas, as well as for those who want to clarify what is at stake in contemporary debates about the ways in which contemporary critical theory could or should refer to Marx.
Effects of the Submesoscale on the Potential Vorticity Budget of Ocean Mode Waters
Authors: Wenegrat Jacob O. , Thomas Leif N. , Gula Jonathan , McWilliams James C.
Published: July 2018

Nonconservative processes change the potential vorticity (PV) of the upper ocean and, later, through the subduction of surface waters into the interior, affect the general ocean circulation. Here we focus on how boundary layer turbulence, in the presence of submesoscale horizontal buoyancy gradients, generates a source of potential vorticity at the ocean surface through a balance known as the turbulent thermal wind. This source of PV injection at the submesoscale can be of similar magnitude to PV fluxes from the wind and surface buoyancy fluxes, and hence can lead to a net injection of PV onto outcropped isopycnals even during periods of surface buoyancy loss. The significance of these dynamics is illustrated using a high-resolution realistic model of the North Atlantic Subtropical Mode Water (Eighteen Degree Water), where it is demonstrated that injection of PV at the submesoscale reduces the rate of mode water PV removal by a factor of ~2 and shortens the annual period of mode water formation by ~3 weeks, relative to air–sea fluxes alone. Submesoscale processes thus provide a direct link between small-scale boundary layer turbulence and the gyre-scale circulation, through their effect on mode water formation, with implications for understanding the variability and biogeochemical properties of ocean mode waters globally.
Performance Evaluation of the Fast Spherical Harmonic Transform Algorithm in the Yin–He Global Spectral Model
Authors: Yin Fukang , Wu Guoli , Wu Jianping , Zhao Jun , Song Junqiang
Published: July 2018

In this paper, we describe an implementation of the fast spherical harmonic transform (SHT) algorithm in the Yin–He global spectral model (YHGSM). A new analysis method is proposed to study the potential instability of interpolative decomposition and to evaluate the performance of fast SHT on the MilkyWay-2 supercomputer. The novel aspect of the proposed method is the use of the computational complexity analysis method by studying the properties of interpolative decompositions. Furthermore, three test cases are conducted to verify fast SHT in YHGSM. The results demonstrate that fast SHT is feasible and efficient for reducing the computational complexity and memory cost of SHT while still keeping enough accuracy.
Early Indication of Noise-Induced Hearing Loss in Young Adult Users of Personal Listening Devices
Authors: Hussain Timon , Chou Carol , Zettner Erika , Torre Peter , Hans Stefan , Gauer Johannes , Markgraf Marius , Nguyen Quyen T.
Published: July 2018

Objectives:

The recent integration of portable music players into cell phones has further increased the use of personal listening devices (PLD) among young adults, raising concerns about potentially hazardous effects on hearing.

Methods:

Assessment of young adults’ hearing ability and listening preferences by subjective and objective measurement. Young adult users of PLDs (n = 50; 30 females, 20 males; mean age = 24.1 ± 4.2 years; average PLD use = 6.1 ± 2.1 years) were included. Subjective assessment of listening preferences was performed via a questionnaire as well as objective assessment of preferred volume levels in different background noise environments and hearing tests.

Results:

Preferred volume levels were significantly correlated with hearing thresholds. Most participants exhibited safe listening behavior according to National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health criteria. We identified a substantial high-risk subgroup of PLD users (22% of participants, daily use ⩾2 h at ⩾91 dB) in which pure tone audiometry showed increased hearing thresholds at 4000 and 6000 Hz, potentially indicating an early manifestation of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL).

Conclusions:

These findings suggest that preventive measures may be warranted to prevent a future increase of clinically relevant NIHL among heavy users of PLDs.
The combination of cerebrospinal fluid procalcitonin, lactate, interleukin-8 and interleukin-10 concentrations for the diagnosis of postneurosurgical bacterial meningitis: A prospective study
Authors: Zhang Guojun , Yang Chunjiao , Kang Xixiong , Gao Zhixian , Wan Hong , Liu Yunpeng
Published: July 2018

Background

The differential diagnosis between postneurosurgical bacterial meningitis and aseptic meningitis remains challenging both for the clinician and the laboratory. Combinations of markers, as opposed to single ones, may improve diagnosis and thereby survival.

Methods

This prospective cohort study included patients with suspected bacterial meningitis after neurosurgery. The patients were divided into two groups according to the diagnostic criteria of meningitis involving a postneurosurgical bacterial meningitis group and a postneurosurgical aseptic meningitis group. Four biomarkers, including cerebrospinal fluid procalcitonin, lactate, interleukin-8 and interleukin-10 were assayed separately, and three algorithms were constructed using a linear combination. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was used to compare their performances.

Results

A cohort of 112 patients was enrolled in our study. Forty-three patients were diagnosed with postneurosurgical bacterial meningitis, and the cerebrospinal fluid values of their biomarkers were higher in patients with postneurosurgical bacterial meningitis than with postneurosurgical aseptic meningitis. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curves for the detection of postneurosurgical bacterial meningitis were 0.803 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.724–0.883) for procalcitonin; 0.936 (95% CI, 0.895–0.977) for lactate; 0.771 (95% CI, 0.683–0.860) for interleukin-8; 0.860 (95% CI, 0.797–0.929) for interleukin-10; 0.937 (95% CI, 0.897–0.977) for the composite two-marker test; 0.945 (95% CI, 0.908–0.982) for the composite three-marker test and 0.954 (95% CI, 0.922–0.989) for the composite of all tests. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curves of the combination tests were greater than those of the single markers.

Conclusions

Combining information from several markers improved the diagnostic accuracy in detecting postneurosurgical bacterial meningitis.
The Influence of the Government on Corporate Environmental Reporting in China: An Authoritarian Capitalism Perspective
Authors: Situ Hui , Tilt Carol A. , Seet Pi-Shen
Published: July 2018

This study uses panel data to investigate the different roles of the Chinese government in influencing companies’ decision making about corporate environmental reporting (CER) via a two-stage process. The results show that the Chinese government appears to mainly influence the decision whether to disclose or not, but has limited influence on how much firms disclose. The results also show that the traditional model of authoritarian capitalism (under which state-owned enterprises [SOEs] are the major governance arrangement) is transforming into a new model. In the new model of authoritarian capitalism, the Chinese government uses newer, more sophisticated tools to manage both state-owned and non–state-owned companies. In addition, these new governance arrangements appear to be more efficient than the traditional model. The findings of this study have implications for both the Chinese government and for Chinese companies, as well as making important contributions to the literature and knowledge of CER in China.
Book Review: Anshu Malhotra, Piro and the Gulabdasis: Gender, Sect, and Society in Punjab
Authors: Dhavan Purnima
Published: July 2018

Anshu Malhotra, Piro and the Gulabdasis: Gender, Sect, and Society in Punjab, New Delhi: Oxford University Press, 2017, 357 pp.
Book Review: Christian Lee Novetzke, The Quotidian Revolution: Vernacularization, Religion, and the Premodern Public Sphere in India
Authors: Deshpande Prachi
Published: July 2018

Christian Lee Novetzke, The Quotidian Revolution: Vernacularization, Religion, and the Premodern Public Sphere in India, New Delhi and Ranikhet: Permanent Black, 2017, 402 pp.
Book Review: Velcheru Narayana Rao, Text and Tradition in South India and David Shulman, Tamil: A Biography
Authors: Shacham Ilanit Loewy
Published: July 2018

Velcheru Narayana Rao, Text and Tradition in South India, Ranikhet: Permanent Black, 2016, 490 pp; and David Shulman, Tamil: A Biography, Cambridge: Harvard University Press, 2016, 416 pp.
Fatigue and tensile behaviors of fiber-reinforced thermosetting composites embedded with nanoparticles
Authors: Zaghloul Moustafa Mahmoud Yousry , Mohamed Yasser S , El-Gamal Hassan
Published: July 2018

The development of studying nanocomposites has grown up rapidly in the last decade. The objective of the current research is to study the influence of incorporating cellulose nanocrystals on the mechanical properties of polyester resins, as well as to develop continuous filament e-glass fiber-reinforced polyester nanocomposites, which combine traditional composites with the added advantages of nanocomposites. Cellulose nanocrystals were uniformly dispersed into the polyester resin by an ultrasonic processor. The incorporation and dispersion of cellulose nanocrystals were a state-of-the-art method aimed at overcoming poor dispersion problems at low weight fractions of nanoparticles. Three weight percentages of cellulose nanocrystals were prepared, which were 2%, 4% and 6%. Fatigue and tensile specimens were manufactured by resin transfer molding process. Cellulose nanocrystals were fully characterized by using X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and zeta-sizer analysis. The optimum incorporation percentage of cellulose nanocrystals was used to prepare glass fiber-reinforced polyester specimens containing cellulose nanocrystals. Tensile and fatigue behaviors of glass fiber-reinforced polyester composites were evaluated by means of universal testing machine and rotating bending fatigue machine. A series of testing specimens for each property was examined in accordance with the corresponding ASTM and JIS standards. The experimental results showed that the addition of 4% cellulose nanocrystals to polyester matrix lead to the optimum tensile and fatigue properties. Mechanical properties were improved through the enhanced material design and proper selection of compatible nanoparticles, and adding cellulose nanocrystals in a weight fraction that does not affect the mechanical properties of glass fiber-reinforced polyester nanocomposites negatively. The presented design of material and geometry have shown promising results for wide range of applications, particularly in biomedical industry, energy and electronics.
Data-Based Decision Making in Reading Interventions: A Synthesis and Meta-Analysis of the Effects for Struggling Readers
Authors: Filderman Marissa J. , Toste Jessica R. , Didion Lisa Anne , Peng Peng , Clemens Nathan H.
Published: July 2018

For students with persistent reading difficulties, research suggests one of the most effective ways to intensify interventions is to individualize instruction through use of performance data—a process known as data-based decision making (DBDM). This article reports a synthesis and meta-analysis of studies of reading interventions containing DBDM for struggling readers, as well as the characteristics and procedures that support the efficacy of these interventions. A systematic search of peer-reviewed literature published between 1975 and 2017 was conducted, resulting in 15 studies of reading interventions that incorporated DBDM for struggling readers in Grades K–12. A comparison of students who received reading interventions with DBDM with those in business-as-usual (BAU) comparison groups yielded a weighted mean effect of g = .24, 95% confidence interval (CI) = [.01 to .46]. A subset of six studies that compared students receiving similar reading interventions with and without DBDM yielded a weighted mean effect of g = .27, 95% CI = [.07, .47]. Implications for DBDM in reading interventions for struggling readers and areas for future research are described. In particular, experimental investigation is necessary to establish DBDM as an evidence-based practice for struggling readers.
Routes and relations in Scandinavian interfaith forums: Governance of religious diversity by states and majority churches
Authors: Paulsen Galal Lise , Lund Liebmann Louise , Nordin Magdalena
Published: July 2018

In the Scandinavian countries of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, as elsewhere in Europe, governance of religious diversity has become a matter of renewed concern. A unique aspect of the Scandinavian situation is the hegemonic status of the respective Lutheran Protestant majority churches, usually referred to as ‘folk churches’, with which the majority of the population associates, alongside a prevalence of high degrees of regional secularism. As such, the majority churches have played a key role as both instigators and organisers of several interfaith initiatives, and have thereby come to interact with the public sphere as providers of diversity governance. Based on country-level studies of policy documents on majority-church/interreligious relations and field studies, this article sets out to explore the prompting and configuration of majority-church-related interfaith initiatives concerning church–state relations and the governance of religious diversity.
Characterization of cotton fabric scouring by Fourier transform-infrared attenuated total reflectance spectroscopy, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and water absorption measurements
Authors: Choe Eun Kyung , Lee Myunghee , Park Kwang Seo , Chung Chinkap
Published: July 2018

Surface sensitive Fourier transform-infrared attenuated total reflectance (ATR) accessories using different crystals as well as incident beam angles were examined for the characterization of cotton fabric scouring. The extra sharp antisymmetric and symmetric C-H stretching peaks due to long chain alkyls at 2918 and 2849 cm−1 were observed in greige cotton fabrics with a tendency to be more profound with the ATR cell with bigger incident angles and a higher refractive index, due to less depth of penetration. Water absorption data and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analyses indicated that these peaks were mostly caused by secondary added paraffin wax of higher linear alkanes (C22 to C30) and cotton wax of C16 and C18 fatty acids in free form. Absence of these peaks alone did not result in sufficient water absorption. No observation of carboxylate (COO−) peak at 1600 cm−1 together ensured a successful scouring. Presence of this weak peak can be further confirmed by the reversible shift between 1600 cm−1 and 1750 cm−1 of protonated carboxylic acids (COOH) under non-destructive and quick HCl or NH3 vapor exposures on cotton samples.
The effect of therapeutic phlebotomy for hemochromatosis on non-suicidal self-injury: A case report
Authors: Newham Benjamin JC , Khanna Rahul
Published: July 2018

Background

Self-phlebotomy has been described as a form of non-suicidal self-injury. However, a relationship between non-suicidal self-injury and therapeutic phlebotomy for hemochromatosis has not previously been described. Case presentation: We present a case of a 52-year-old man in whom the frequency of his therapeutic phlebotomy and non-suicidal self-injury were inversely linked, leading to adverse outcomes when his phlebotomy was suspended.

Conclusions

This is the first report describing the relationship between non-suicidal self-injury and therapeutic phlebotomy. This case highlights the need for risk assessment and monitoring of self-harm in patients who are undergoing therapeutic phlebotomy in order to prevent adverse outcomes.
Racial Bias and LSI-R Assessments in Probation Sentencing and Outcomes
Authors: Lowder Evan M. , Morrison Megan M. , Kroner Daryl G. , Desmarais Sarah L.
Published: July 2018

Risk assessments are now implemented in correctional settings across the United States as an evidence-based strategy to inform sentencing and supervision decisions. Despite growing research examining racial bias in the predictive validity of risk assessments, few studies have investigated racial bias in the context of judicial decision-making. We investigated the interactive contributions of race and Level of Service Inventory–Revised (LSI-R) risk assessments in predicting sentence length and probation outcomes in 11,792 Black and White probationers. Results showed White probationers at low-risk levels received longer sentences relative to Black probationers classified at the same risk levels. However, there were few differences at higher risk levels and no evidence of racial bias in the predictive accuracy of LSI-R assessments for other probation outcomes. Findings highlight the need for prospective and carefully controlled investigations into whether risk assessments improve the fairness and accuracy of sentencing and other risk management decisions.
Relationship between classroom social goal structures, gender, and social outcomes in Japanese elementary school children
Authors: Ohtani Kazuhiro , Okada Ryo
Published: July 2018

This study examines the interaction between gender and classroom social goal structures and the impact they have on children's prosocial behaviors and classroom adjustment. Specifically, classroom social goal structures (consisting of prosocial and compliance goal structure) are the degree to which focal social goals are presented in classrooms. Numerous previous studies have tested the gender differences in social outcomes; however, the results of such past studies have been mixed, as some detected gender differences while others did not. This suggests the existence of moderator variables. Consequently, in this research, we focused on classroom-level moderators in the relationship between gender and social outcomes. We analysed a sample of 3,609 Japanese public elementary school children from 114 classrooms, and we detected the presence of cross-level interactions and found that classroom social goal structures can promote or degrade boys' social outcomes.
Integration of radiological protection of the environment into the system of radiological protection
Authors: Higley K.A.
Published: July 2018

In 2005, the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) decided to create a new committee, Committee 5, to take charge of the Commission’s work on environmental radiological protection. Committee 5 was tasked with ensuring that the system for environmental radiological protection would be reconcilable with that for radiological protection of humans, and with the approaches used for protection of the environment from other potential hazards. The task was completed over three consecutive terms, resulting in inclusion of protection of the environment in the 2007 Recommendations; in ICRP Publications 108 and 114 where the concept of Reference Animals and Plants (RAPs) and their corresponding data were described; in ICRP Publication 124 on how to apply the system in planned, existing, and emergency exposure situations; and in publications on improved dosimetry (ICRP Publication 136) and ecologically relevant ‘weighting factors’ for different types of radiation (being finalised for public consultation). With the beginning of this new term, ICRP has moved to integrate its approach to protection of humans and the environment within the system of radiological protection by tasking aspects of an integrated system to each of the committees. Acknowledging that Committee 5 had fulfilled its mission, in 2016, ICRP revised the mandates for the committees effective of 1 July 2017 (the mandate for Committee 3 was also widened to include exposures incurred in veterinary practice). ICRP is moving towards the future, building on the previous successes, and will under these revised mandates approach radiological protection in a holistic manner (an integrated system) where appropriate consideration is given to the understanding of exposures and effects in the environment under different exposure situations and scenarios, and what protective actions might be warranted under such circumstances.
Scientific Contributions of Within-Person Research in Management: Making the Juice Worth the Squeeze
Authors: McCormick Brian W. , Reeves Cody J. , Downes Patrick E. , Li Ning , Ilies Remus
Published: July 2018

A multitude of studies in the management literature are focusing on within-person phenomena. The study of such phenomena offers great promise as within-person research facilitates the capacity to enhance temporal precision, show change over time, and reveal the kinds of novel insights that are not possible if relying solely on a traditional between-person perspective. Drawing on the features of within-person research that comprise its unique value proposition, we conduct a quantitative and narrative review of within-person studies to ascertain the degree to which these studies are maximizing the contribution and impact that they can make to the field of management. We pose three research questions that we present as a holistic framework for assessing the contributions of within-person research. To answer our questions, we synthesize across studies and analyze variability data, correlational data, and researchers’ hypothesizing to show (a) the degree to which hypotheses in within-person studies incorporate temporality; (b) the differential within-person fluctuation and variability that exists based on construct, theoretical, and measurement-related factors; and (c) the degree to which within-person relationships are different from equivalent between-person relationships. While our data and conclusions offer insight into the contributions being made by the within-person literature at large, we also propose that our framework can be used at the individual study level of analysis to help optimize the contributions made in future within-person research.
Who Will Stay and Who Will Go? Related agglomeration and the mortality of professional sports leagues in the United States and Canada, 1871–1997
Authors: Wade James B. , Harrison J. Richard , Dobbs Michael E. , Zhao Xia
Published: July 2018

Professional sports leagues play a major role in our society, but little attention has been given to organizational factors related to league survival. We address this issue by examining the effects of related agglomeration (the extent to which league teams are located near teams from other sports that share the same broad professional sport identity), sport age, market heterogeneity (high variance in the number of teams from other sports in its teams’ cities), and within-sport league competition (high niche overlap) on league mortality. Related agglomeration may lead to intensified competition but may also lead to benefits by producing agglomeration economies and by driving the development of regional identities. We propose that the effects of related agglomeration vary over a focal population’s life cycle. We also argue that leagues with high market heterogeneity have higher chances of failure, particularly under conditions of high competition. We test our ideas using event history analysis to examine mortality in the entire population history of professional sports leagues in the United States and Canada (which are fundamentally different from leagues in other parts of the world) from the first league founding in 1871 until 1997. We find that leagues in young sports whose teams tend to be located in cities with large numbers of other sports (high related agglomeration) suffer from higher mortality rates while leagues that are in more established sports are less likely to fail under these circumstances. Consistent with prior research, leagues are more likely to fail when they experience higher competition (higher niche overlap) with other leagues in their sport, and the effects of competition are exacerbated by high variance in the number of other sports across the leagues’ cities (high market heterogeneity). We end by discussing the implications of our results for more common multi-unit organizational forms such as franchises and by considering promising avenues for future research.
A cosmopolitan culture-bearer as activist: Striving for gender inclusion in Nepali music education
Authors: Westerlund Heidi , Partti Heidi
Published: July 2018

Although music education scholars have increasingly advised teachers to take heed of values, principles, and strategies of musical practices outside of school, very little has been written in music education regarding the ideological underpinnings of musical practices in these contexts. This article argues that musical practices outside of school do not necessarily provide ideal models to be directly applied in the music classroom, but need to be critically examined and transformed to better align with global imperatives such as inclusiveness. In addressing the imbalance between “inauthentic” learning in school and “authentic” learning outside of school, this article shows how working toward the global ideal of gender inclusion may require radical activism and a cosmopolitan approach countering the right of an ethnic group to practice and preserve their own distinctive culture. The life story of a Newar musician from the Kathmandu Valley is used to illustrate this argument by demonstrating what it takes for a “culture-bearer” to initiate radical processes of social change and transformation. In this qualitative narrative case study, we asked what kind of context-specific, socio-cultural negotiation was required to overcome the challenges the musician faced in including girls and women in musical learning in a Newar community.
Populism and media policy failure
Authors: Freedman Des
Published: July 2018

Far right populist politicians and movements have secured high levels of visibility thanks to often compliant media outlets and unregulated digital platforms. The pursuit of media coverage and the communication of rage are no longer incidental but essential to the growth of reactionary populisms. Yet, while prominent liberal media outlets are ‘aghast’ at events such as the election of Donald Trump and the Brexit vote, little attention has been paid to the structural conditions and policy frameworks that have facilitated the circulation of clickbait and misinformation, together with the incessant coverage of their leaders, that have been exploited by far right movements. This article identifies four areas of ‘media policy failure’ that have nurtured highly skewed media environments and concludes by calling for a new policy paradigm based around redistribution that aims to reconstruct media systems in order to undermine the appeal of populist forces on the far right.
Early integrated palliative approach for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: A narrative study of bereaved caregivers’ experiences
Authors: Pooler Charlotte , Richman-Eisenstat Janice , Kalluri Meena
Published: July 2018

Background:

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis has an uncertain and rapid trajectory after diagnosis. Palliative care is rarely utilized, although both patients and caregivers experience a distressingly high symptom burden. Most patients die in hospital.

Aim:

The purpose of this study was to explore bereaved caregivers’ experiences and perceptions of an early integrated palliative approach implemented at a Multidisciplinary Interstitial Lung Disease Clinic.

Design:

A narrative approach was used, with thematic and content analysis of open-ended interviews.

Setting/participants:

The clinic is located in a large western Canadian city. Caregivers of deceased patients were recruited through purposive sampling. The eight participants were either spouses or adult children.

Results:

Five major themes were identified: Having a Terminal Disease; Planning Goals and Wishes for Care; Living Life and Creating Memories; Feeling Strain and Responsibility; and Nearing the End. Caregivers had little understanding of prognosis prior to advance care planning conversations at the clinic. Advance care planning conversations enabled caregivers to know and support patients’ goals and wishes. Caregivers described feeling informed, prepared, and supported when death was near. They expressed neither distress nor anxiety related to patients’ symptoms or strain of relationships.

Conclusion:

Collaboration and close communication among caregivers, respirologists, and home care enabled effective symptom management and out of hospital deaths. Patients and caregivers had opportunities to enjoy events, create memories, determine preferences, and make plans. Further research on an early integrated palliative approach in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis is warranted related to quality of life, experience with death and dying, and caregiver bereavement.
Effectiveness of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy on Reduction of Recidivism Among Recently Incarcerated Homeless Women: A Pilot Study
Authors: Nyamathi Adeline , Shin Sanghyuk S. , Smeltzer Jolene , Salem Benissa , Yadav Kartik , Krogh Donna , Ekstrand Maria
Published: July 2018

The purpose of this pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) was to compare the 6-month outcomes of a Dialectical Behavioral Therapy–Corrections Modified (DBT-CM) program versus a Health Promotion (HP) program on mitigating recidivism among 130 female parolees/probationers between baseline and 6-month follow-up. The effect of DBT-CM on reducing recidivism was greater among those who expressed a desire for help (risk ratio [RR] = 0.40; 95% confidence interval [CI] = [0.16, 1.00]; p = .050) and among homeless female ex-offenders (HFOs) who were younger (<50 years of age; RR = 0.46; 95% CI = [0.19, 1.11]; p = .085) and participants with Desire for Help score > 35 (Model 3; RR = 0.40; 95% CI = [0.16, 1.00]; p = .050). Findings from this pilot study suggest that the DBT-CM intervention may be effective in reducing reincarceration rates among some HFOs during reentry. Larger RCTs are needed to validate our findings.
Prisoners’ Perceptions About Postrelease Employment in Romania: Studying the Role of Human Capital and Labelling Factors in Explaining Optimism and Pessimism
Authors: Dâmboeanu Cristina , Ramakers Anke A. T.
Published: July 2018

Prior evidence shows that prisoners’ beliefs and perceptions have profound implications for their postprison success. This study shows which prisoners are more or less optimistic about their postrelease employment prospects and for what reason. Specifically, this study examines how pessimistic prisoners are about finding a job, finding an unskilled job, and finding a minimum-wage job. It also reveals whether variables drawn from labelling and human capital theories can explain between-individual differences in these perceptions. Using survey data on 154 Romanian prisoners, we find substantial differences in optimism. These differences are partly explained by prisoners’ criminal history and human capital, but more so by prisoners’ expectations about the importance of these characteristics in the hiring process. Policy implications are discussed.
Evaluation of Marshall Stability Design Principles: Applied to Cold In-Place Recycling
Authors: Cox Ben C. , Howard Isaac L.
Published: July 2018

The objective of this paper is to document limitations and robustness issues with Marshall stability (MS) testing for cold in-place recycling (CIR) mix designs. This paper focuses efforts on MS because many departments of transportation are using this test for CIR design, and the data presented in this paper supports abandonment for any type of CIR mix design. Unconfined compressive strength (UCS) and indirect tensile strength data is used throughout the paper for benchmarking, as both tests are used in various capacities for in-place recycling designs. Portland cement and asphalt emulsion binders were assessed in this paper. In comparison with UCS design curves with cement, MS results for emulsion were not as rational and often did not respond to emulsion content changes in a logical manner. MS repeatability was poor for the materials evaluated in this paper. Replicate design curves ranged from all points below a design threshold (i.e., all emulsion dosage levels failed to meet the design criteria) to all points above a design threshold (i.e., all emulsion dosage levels successfully met the design criteria). The typical minimum MS criteria (5.56 kN) was exceeded without any emulsion for specimens oven conditioned for 2 h at 40°C. A notable limitation of the data presented in this paper was that retained MS (i.e., assessment of moisture conditioning effects) was not performed comprehensively throughout the work.
The Relationship between Experienced and Imagined Bicycling Comfort and Safety
Authors: Fitch Dillon T. , Handy Susan L.
Published: July 2018

A common method used to evaluate road designs for bicycling is a survey of stated opinions based on imagined bicycling experiences that are used to represent real experiences. However, we know little about the connection between imagined and real bicycling experiences. In this study, we examine the relationship between bicyclists’ (first-person experienced) and video survey participants’ (imagined) ratings of bicycling comfort and safety. We do this with real-world bike rides/surveys ( n = 20) and a blocked experiment conducted through a web-based video survey of female undergraduates ( n = 1,203). We show that imagined ratings resemble first-person experienced ratings, but that they have a systematic negative bias (approximately 10% to 15%). This suggests that imagined bicycling experiences seem less comfortable and safe compared with real experiences. We compare both methodological and psychological explanations for this result and the consequent bicycling implications for each.
Traffic-Noise Impact Study for Least Bell's Vireo Habitat along California State Route 83
Authors: Barrett Douglas E.
Published: July 2018

A traffic-noise study was conducted to determine the impact that a highway reconstruction project would have on a habitat area for the least Bell's vireo, a federally protected songbird. FHWA and California Department of Transportation policies do not address the impact of noise on wildlife species; the study was conducted in response to a requirement of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Several mitigation measures were considered, including approximately 1200 m (4,000 ft) of temporary noise barriers. The outcome of the study was to provide funds for in-kind mitigation through habitat restoration rather than direct mitigation of noise impacts. This study contributes to a growing precedent of considering noise mitigation specifically for the protection of wildlife and raises several policy issues. Despite the increasing number of noise-mitigation projects for endangered birds and the commitment of significant funds to these undertakings, there remains a lack of firmly based noise-impact criteria and guidelines for noise mitigation.