bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Criminogenic and Desistance-Promoting Processes Behind Bars and Postrelease Supervision: New Evidence From Federal Offenders
Authors: DeLisi Matt , Drury Alan , Elbert Michael
Published: May 2019

Institutional misconduct has criminogenic implications, whereas visitation, work, and educational involvement have desistance implications, but there is considerable heterogeneity in the inmate population and in the effects of institutional experiences and various programming on their immediate and postrelease behavior. Using a near population of offenders on federal supervised release, the current study examined the effects of criminogenic (e.g., misconduct) and desistance-promoting (e.g., work, education, and visitation) factors occurring within prison along with the effects of importation factors (e.g., arrest onset, federal criminal history rank, and demographics) in relation to functioning/compliance on supervised release. Institutional misconduct and specifically drug/alcohol misconduct reduced postrelease functioning/compliance, while the effects for visitation were limited. Prison work and educational experiences had no effect on supervised release outcomes. The most consistent predictor of supervision failure was age of arrest onset and to a lesser extent federal criminal history rank that is supportive of importation and life-course perspectives.
The Contextualization of Self and Place Within a Second-Grade Study of Recent Immigration
Authors: Shin Sunghee , Bisland Beverly Milner (Lee)
Published: May 2019

Immigration is a public issue that needs student exploration. This cross-disciplinary study brings awareness of diverse cultures by studying immigration through personal history in a multiethnic urban elementary school. Research suggests the importance of integrating assets students bring into the classroom in instruction. Changing pedagogies also emphasize the need for students to participate in community-based inquiries. This asset-based perspective centers students as knowledge producers, instead of knowledge consumers, making them active participants in learning.
Fixed- and variable-frequency sliding mode controller–maximum power point tracking converter for two-stage grid-integrated photovoltaic system employing nonlinear loads with power quality improvement features
Authors: Chinnappan Ravichandran , Logamani Premalatha , Ramasubbu Rengaraj
Published: May 2019

This article presents a reliable and efficient photovoltaic sliding mode voltage-controlled maximum power point tracking DC-DC converter–active power filter integration system to supply real power to grid. This integrated active power filter system performs power quality enhancement features to compensate current harmonics to make distortion-free grid supply current and reactive power employing nonlinear loads. The proposed proportional–integral–derivative–based sliding mode controller is designed with fixed-frequency pulse-width modulation based on equivalent control approach. The main objective of this paper is to design a photovoltaic system with a new sliding surface to force the photovoltaic voltage to follow the reference maximum power point voltage with the alleviation of slow transient response and disadvantages of chattering effects of variable-frequency hysteresis modulation sliding mode controller–maximum power point tracking. The perturbations caused by the uncertainties in climatic conditions and converter output bulk oscillations during grid integration are also mitigated. The features of the proposed photovoltaic–active power filter integration system are confirmed at different operating conditions through PSIM simulation software, and its performance is also compared with a conventional variable-frequency sliding mode-controlled maximum power point tracking. The obtained simulation and experimental results give good dynamic response under various operating conditions of environmental and local load conditions.
A linear dynamic feedback controller for non-linear systems described by matrix differential equations of the second and first orders
Authors: Skruch Paweł , Długosz Marek
Published: May 2019

The paper presents a design scheme of the linear dynamic feedback controller for some non-linear systems. These systems are mathematically described by matrix non-linear differential equations of the first and second orders. A first-order form of the studied systems includes some types of differential-algebraic equations. The stability property of the non-linear systems with the linear controller is assured by an appropriate definition of the system output, and the linear dynamic compensator is an important part of the feedback control system. The order of the dynamic part is equal to the size of the system input and is independent of the size of the system state vector. The asymptotic stability in the Lyapunov sense is analysed and proved by the use of Lyapunov functionals and LaSalle’s invariance principle. Stabilisation in a wide range of controller parameters improves the system’s robustness.
The signal-oriented test system model of automated test systems and its identification technology
Authors: Dong Xu , Gaofei Zhang
Published: May 2019

In order to improve the test capability of automated test systems to deal with complex systems, the concept of a signal-oriented test system model was proposed to guide the design of test systems and the implementation of test work and to analyze the test results. First, a method for establishing signal-oriented test system model is proposed, which is based on IEEE 1641 standard, and combined with the unit under test requirements and test objectives. Second, corresponding verification methods are proposed in the mathematical domain and signal domain. Finally, a verification method based on gene expression programming algorithm is designed to verify the complex signal-oriented test system model. In addition, the battery charge regulator module of the NS2 satellite verified the effectiveness of the signal-oriented test system model. Compared with the traditional identification method, the identification accuracy of the simple system (with mathematical model) has been significantly improved; for complex systems (no mathematical model), the traditional method is difficult to work, and the gene expression programming algorithm still has a good effect. The actual verification shows that the signal-oriented test system model, which combines the advantages of the mathematical model and the physical model, can well represent the testing requirements of the complex system.
Hygrothermal effects on mechanical joints prepared from fiber reinforced plastic nanocomposites
Authors: Singh Kulwinder , Saini JS , Bhunia H , Chowdhury S Ray
Published: May 2019

The present work deals with the hygrothermal aging of the bolt joints prepared from glass fiber reinforced plastics. To investigate the effect of nanoclay on joint performance, nanoclay content was varied from 0 to 5 wt%, with laminates prepared from 3 wt% of nanoclay content demonstrating the best mechanical properties. Nanoclay acts as a mechanical interlock between the fiber and the epoxy and thus improves the interfacial bonding. A good dispersion of nanoclay also improves moisture barrier properties which in turn reduces the degradation of the composite material hygrothermal conditions. Bolt joints were prepared from woven glass fiber reinforced laminates incorporating 3 wt% of nanoclay content. To design the bolt joint, ASTM D5961 was used and the geometric parameters, i.e. edge distance to hole diameter (E/D) ratio and width to hole diameter (W/D) ratio were fixed to 5 and 6, respectively. Three different temperatures, i.e. 25℃, 50℃ and 75℃ were considered for the aging to three different duration of exposure, i.e. 1, 2 and 3 weeks. The effect of different levels of bolt torque, i.e. 0, 2 and 4 Nm were considered for the failure analysis of the joint. A full factorial design of experiment was conducted on important control factors, i.e. water temperature, exposure time, bolt torque and material variation. It was found that the hygrothermal conditions degraded the material with temperature as the most contributing factor.
Busy Businesses and Busy Contexts: The Distribution and Sources of Crime at Commercial Properties
Authors: Tillyer Marie Skubak , Walter Rebecca J.
Published: May 2019

Objective:

Examine the distribution and sources of crime across freestanding businesses in San Antonio. We test hypotheses about the main and interactive effects of neighborhood and business characteristics on crime at the business, with a focus on busy contexts and busy businesses.

Method:

Police crime incident data are spatially joined to study area business parcels. Additional data sources include Infogroup USA Business Data, the American Community Survey, and an Environmental Protection Agency traffic activity indicator. Multilevel negative binomial regression models are estimated to observe the main and interactive effects of census block group and business variables on crime at the parcel.

Results:

Businesses located in block groups with more commercial property and high levels of vehicular traffic experience more crime. In addition, crime is higher at “busy” businesses, as indicated by employee size, sales volume, and square footage. Busy contexts and busy businesses do not appear to interact to increase crime at the parcel beyond their main effects.

Conclusions:

Crime is clustered at relatively few businesses, and this variation cannot be explained by business type alone. Both neighborhood and business characteristics are associated with crime at freestanding businesses, with busy businesses and those within busier block groups experiencing more crime.
Understanding Variation in Estimates of Diversionary Effects of Community College Entrance: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Schudde Lauren , Brown Raymond Stanley
Published: May 2019

Decades of research have estimated the effect of entering a community college on bachelor’s degree attainment. In this study, we examined the influence of methodological choices, including sample restrictions and identification strategies, on estimated effects from studies published between 1970 and 2017. After systematically reviewing the literature, we leveraged meta-analysis to assess average estimates and examine the role of moderators. In our preferred model, entering a community college was associated with a 23-percentage-point decrease in the probability of baccalaureate attainment, on average, compared with entering a four-year college. The size of effects appeared to grow over the past three decades, though this coincides with substantial shifts in the college-going population. Methodological choices, particularly how researchers define the treatment group, explain some variation in estimates across studies. We conclude with a discussion of the implications for future inquiry and for policy.
Determining the Academic and Well-Being Needs of Students in Urban School Environments: A Delphi Study
Authors: Morgan Joseph John , Diamond Lindsay Lile , Spies Tracy Griffin , Raines Tara C. , Boone Randall
Published: May 2019

Research indicates that there is a discrepancy in academic outcomes between students attending school in urban environments and those attending school in suburban environments. While educational reform efforts have focused on providing in-school academic interventions, they often do not consider variables that address well-being, nor are they aligned among critical stakeholders. This study implemented a two-round Delphi survey to develop consensus around critical priorities of focus to improve the academic and well-being outcomes of students. It was discovered that the main focus of intervention continues to be on academics, with less attention on well-being. Results and implications for practice are discussed.
Mental Disorders Among Elderly People in Baghdad, Iraq, 2017
Authors: Ibrahim Ahmed Abdulameer , AI-Lami Faris , Al-Rudainy Riyadh , Khader Yousef S.
Published: May 2019

This study aimed to estimate the prevalence and determinants of mental disorders (MDs) among elderly people residing in nursing homes (NHs) and those living with their families (WF) in Baghdad, Iraq, 2017. A cross-sectional study was conducted on all elderly individuals residing in all NHs in Baghdad and an equal number of elderly people residing WF. MDs were defined based on Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10). We used relevant World Health Organization–accredited tools to identify the types of MDs. The prevalence of MDs among elderly people was 38.7%, being statistically significantly ( P < .01) higher among those in NH (55.8%) compared with those living WF (21.5%). The proportion of types of MDs among NH versus WF residents was as follows: depression (35.4% vs 16.6%), anxiety (32.6% vs 9.9%), dementia (19.3% vs 5%), and suicide thoughts (25.4% vs 4.4%). The multivariate analysis showed many factors that were associated with MD. Low income, dependency on others, and being neglected were stronger determinant of MD among elderly people living WF. However, chronic joint pain, visual impairment, auditory impairment, and economic status deterioration were stronger determinant among those in NHs. The prevalence of MDs in the NH is more than double the prevalence in the community. We recommended enhancing elderly mental health care services including curative, preventive, and promotive activities.
Drivers of Travel Insurance Purchase
Authors: Sarman Igor , Curtale Riccardo , Hajibaba Homa
Published: May 2019

With the increasing number of critical events happening at tourism destinations, travelers engage in different strategies to reduce travel risks, and travel insurance purchase is one of these. However, little is known about travel insurance purchase behavior despite its relevance in the modern context of travelers’ heightened alert induced by potential or actual risks of critical events. The present study applies an Integrated Choice and Latent Variable (ICLV) model to investigate individual insurance purchase decisions in a leisure travel context. A mix of sociodemographic covariates, travel-related behaviors, and psychological variables is adopted in the model. Personality traits are crucial for the purchase of products that are strongly related to the psychological dimension of individuals’ choice behavior. The results show that personality traits of conscientiousness and neuroticism contribute to the determination of travel insurance purchase behavior.
The Politics of Makarrata: Understanding Indigenous–Settler Relations in Australia
Authors: Little Adrian
Published: May 2019

In May 2017, the Uluru Statement from the Heart was released, providing an Indigenous response to debates on recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the Australian constitution. The document advocated for a “Makarrata Commission,” which would oversee truth telling and agreement making. This essay analyzes the concept of Makarrata as it has emerged in the context of Indigenous–settler relations in Australia and argues for a deeper engagement of non-Indigenous people with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander concepts and practices. By extending some of the methods of comparative political theory to incorporate endogenous as well as exogenous comparisons, the article demonstrates the ways in which Makarrata is likely to contribute to continuing contestation and disagreement between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. While the Uluru Statement marked a significant point in the Australian recognition debate because it reflected a relatively consensual Indigenous message articulated on its own terms, the article suggests that “Makarrata” must not be appropriated into a benign settler discourse of reconciliation, if the concept’s potential to inform substantive change in Indigenous–settler relations is to be realized.
Robust adaptive tracking control of hydraulic actuators with unmodeled dynamics
Authors: Zheng Jingzhong , Yao Jianyong
Published: May 2019

Traditional control methods for precise motion control of electro-hydraulic servo systems are primarily based on rigid-body dynamics of the system. Considering that structural flexibility of the mechanical components have a certain impact on all drive systems, the neglected high-frequency dynamics caused by structural flexibility have become one of the major obstacles when developing better control performance. In this paper, a high-accuracy tracking control is concerned for hydraulic actuators with unmodeled flexible dynamics. Firstly, a damping term is utilized to counterweigh the unmodeled nonlinear flexible function and a dynamic signal is designed to control the dynamic flexible disturbance. Then, in order to process parametric uncertainties along with unmodeled flexible dynamics, an adaptive backstepping controller is proposed. The controller theoretically guarantees global bounded tracking performance via Lyapunov analysis. The experimental and simulation results illustrate the high-performance nature of the proposed controller.
Event-triggered composite nonlinear control for saturated systems with measurement feedback
Authors: Zuo Zhiqiang , Cheng Haorui , Wang Yijing , Li Hongchao
Published: May 2019

The composite nonlinear feedback (CNF) control problem with event-triggered strategy for saturated systems with measurement feedback is considered in this paper. Both the full-order measurement and the reduced-order one are investigated to ensure the satisfactory performance of the closed-loop saturated systems under the proposed event-triggered mechanism. Generally speaking, the CNF control is divided into the linear control part and the nonlinear control part, which are designed separately. The purpose of the former is to shorten the rise time, while the latter aims at reducing the overshoot caused by the former. In this paper, a co-design method of linear and nonlinear control parts is proposed such that the control output tracks the reference input asymptotically with a good transient performance. Moreover, the parameter of CNF is applied to the construction of event-triggered mechanism which can efficiently reduce the communication burden. In order to avoid Zeno behavior, the minimum event-triggering time interval is explicitly formulated. Finally, an example of fighter aircraft is given for illustration.
Real-world experience: Lessons learnt from my experience of bringing a fully outsourced library service back in-house
Authors: Carter Denise
Published: May 2019

In my first post as a newly qualified librarian way back in 1987, fresh from Aberystwyth with my BLib, I had, what I assume to be, the rare experience of bringing a fully outsourced library service back in-house and creating a new in-house service. All our work experiences are learning opportunities, but this particular event, so early in my career, taught me some very valuable lessons that I have used and built on throughout my 30 plus years working as an information professional. What I learned I have used both for managing and setting up new library and information services and functions, and also when I have applied outsourcing solutions for different projects or individual services.
Role of the galanin N-terminal fragment (1-15) in anhedonia: Involvement of the dopaminergic mesolimbic system
Authors: Millón Carmelo , Flores-Burgess Antonio , Gago Belén , Alén Francisco , Orio Laura , García-Durán Laura , Narváez José A , Fuxe Kjell , Santín Luis , Díaz-Cabiale Zaida
Published: May 2019

Background:

Anhedonia is a core feature of depressive disorders. The galanin N-terminal fragment (1-15) plays a role in mood regulation since it induces depression and anxiogenic-like effects in rats. In this study, we analysed galanin N-terminal fragment (1-15) actions in anhedonic-like behaviours in rats using operant and non-operant tests and the areas involved with these effects.

Methods:

Galanin N-terminal fragment (1-15) effects were analysed in saccharin self-administration, sucrose preference, novelty-suppressed feeding and female urine sniffing tests. The areas involved in galanin N-terminal fragment (1-15)-mediated effects were studied with positron emission tomography for in vivo imaging, and we analysed the ventral tegmental area and nucleus accumbens. Galanin N-terminal fragment (1-15) had effects on the mRNA expression of the dopamine transporters Dat and Vmat2; the C-Fos gene; the dopamine receptors D1, D2, D3, D5; and the galanin receptors 1 and 2.

Results:

Galanin N-terminal fragment (1-15) at a concentration of 3 nmol induced a strong anhedonia-like phenotype in all tests. The involvement of galanin receptor 2 was demonstrated with the galanin receptor 2 antagonist M871 (3 nmol). The 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography images indicated the action of galanin N-terminal fragment (1-15) over several nuclei of the limbic system. Galanin N-terminal fragment (1-15)-mediated effects also involved changes in the expression of Dat, Vmat2, D3 and galanin receptors in the ventral tegmental area as well as the expression of C-Fos, D1, D2 and D3 and TH immunoreactivity in the nucleus accumbens.

Conclusions:

Our results indicated that galanin N-terminal fragment (1-15) exerts strong anhedonic-like effects and that this effect was accompanied by changes in the dopaminergic mesolimbic system. These results may provide a basis for the development of novel therapeutic strategies using galanin N-terminal fragment (1-15) analogues for the treatment of depression and reward-related diseases.
Lamotrigine augmentation in treatment-resistant unipolar depression: A comprehensive meta-analysis of efficacy and safety
Authors: Goh Kah Kheng , Chen Chun-Hsin , Chiu Yi-Hang , Lu Mong-Liang
Published: May 2019

Objective:

Augmentation strategies are commonly applied when an individual is unresponsive to antidepressant monotherapy. Lamotrigine is currently considered at best only as second line augmentation for treatment-resistant unipolar depression while its clinical efficacy and safety profiles remain inconclusive. We intended to assess the therapeutic effects and safety profiles of lamotrigine augmentation in patients with treatment-resistant unipolar depression by conducting a meta-analysis.

Methods:

MEDLINE, Embase, EBSCO, Cochrane, Web of Science, Scopus, Wanfang and Ariniti databases were searched. Coprimary outcomes, including changes in severity of depression and response rate, were measured in this study. Secondary outcomes were defined as the safety profile of the intervention, including reported discontinuation rate and adverse events.

Results:

Eight double-blinded randomized controlled trials with 677 patients overall were included. Significant improvements in Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression scores and response rates were shown in lamotrigine augmentation groups compared with control groups, of which the pooled result of six Chinese studies showed positive effects of Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression improvement while the pooled result of two non-Chinese studies was statistically non-significant. Patients with more severe illness and longer duration of illness were more effectively treated with lamotrigine augmentation. The magnitude of depression improvement after lamotrigine augmentation was higher in patients treated with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors than those treated with serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. Lamotrigine augmentation is well-tolerated in terms of all-cause discontinuation rate and adverse events.

Conclusions:

Lamotrigine augmentation may serve as a possible choice for patients with treatment-resistant unipolar depression and further trials are warranted to clarify the optimal dosage of lamotrigine augmentation together with the treatment duration and safety over time.
School Relations and Solitude in Early Adolescence: A Mediation Model Involving Rejection Sensitivity
Authors: Molinari Luisa , Grazia Valentina , Corsano Paola
Published: May 2019

Rejection sensitivity (RS) is a cognitive and affective disposition to defensively expect, perceive, and overreact to signs of rejection by others. The current study examined the role of RS as a mediating mechanism underlying the relation between school relations with peers and teachers and solitude in early adolescence. Italian middle school students ( N = 656; females = 50.9%; [Formula: see text]) reported their RS, quality of relationships with their friends and teachers, peer-related loneliness, and attitudes toward aloneness. The results showed direct associations between school relations and RS components, as well as between RS and the three dimensions of solitude. Moreover, structural equation models showed that anxious RS and RS expectations, but not angry RS, mediated the association between school relations and solitude. The present study contributes to our understanding of the key mechanisms underlying the association between school relations and solitude.
Early Adolescence in Madagascar: Girls’ Transitions Through Puberty in and out of School
Authors: Sommer Marni , Skolnik Ava , Ramirez Ana , Lee Jana , Rasoazanany Hariniaina , Ibitoye Mobolaji
Published: May 2019

Evidence on girls’ transitions through puberty in Madagascar and ways in which menarche influences their educational experiences and future sexual and reproductive health is limited. We conducted qualitative research involving participatory activities with girls in rural and urban Madagascar to explore their transitions through early puberty. Key informant interviews were also conducted with adults interacting in girls’ lives. Findings revealed gaps in girls’ knowledge and support during puberty, varying guidance received about sexuality after menarche, and challenges managing menstruation in school. Given significant gaps in girls’ levels of knowledge and support, a clear need was demonstrated for educational material on puberty for early adolescents, along with teacher training about puberty. Improved toilet facilities are also needed to improve menstruating girls’ school-going experiences.
Integrated robot planning, path following, and obstacle avoidance in two and three dimensions: Wheeled robots, underwater vehicles, and multicopters
Authors: Sgorbissa Antonio
Published: May 2019

We propose an innovative, integrated solution to path planning, path following, and obstacle avoidance that is suitable both for 2D and 3D navigation. The proposed method takes as input a generic curve connecting a start and a goal position, and is able to find a corresponding path from start to goal in a maze-like environment even in the absence of global information, it guarantees convergence to the path with kinematic control, and finally avoids locally sensed obstacles without becoming trapped in deadlocks. This is achieved by computing a closed-form expression in which the control variables are a continuous function of the input curve, the robot’s state, and the distance of all the locally sensed obstacles. Specifically, we introduce a novel formalism for describing the path in two and three dimensions, as well as a computationally efficient method for path deformation (based only on local sensor readings) that is able to find a path to the goal even when such path cannot be produced through continuous deformations of the original. The article provides formal proofs of all the properties above, as well as simulated results in a simulated environment with a wheeled robot, an underwater vehicle, and a multicopter.
Patterns of initially overlooked recurrence of peritoneal lesions in patients with advanced ovarian cancer on postoperative multi-detector row CT
Authors: Bae Heejin , Jung Dae Chul , Lee Jung-Yun , Nam Eun Ji , Kang Won Jun , Oh Young Taik
Published: May 2019

Background

In order to obtain timely treatment, the early detection of recurrent ovarian cancer is essential. Despite technical advances in multi-detector row computed tomography (MDCT), low sensitivity of CT for recurrence has not been improved much due to its poor soft tissue discrimination.

Purpose

The aim of this study is to describe patterns of erroneous postoperative MDCT interpretation of recurred peritoneal lesions in patients with advanced ovarian cancer (AOC).

Material and methods

Between 2011 and 2018, we reviewed postoperative follow-up positron emission tomography (PET)/CT images of 240 patients with suspected recurrence based on the images and history of initially diagnosed AOC (International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage IIIC–IV) who had undergone primary cytoreduction. With awareness of recurred location, we re-evaluated MDCT images taken right before the recurrence was detected on PET/CT and categorized these cases as either the absence of a lesion or the presence of a lesion (missed case). We performed region-based comparisons of these missed cases according to predefined peritoneal locations.

Results

Re-evaluation of follow-up MDCT images revealed that 46.9% (105/224) of recurrent lesions were missed. Through region-based analysis, the most commonly missed site was the pelvic cavity (19.0%, 20/105), followed by the porta hepatis (15.2%, 16/105) and the para-aortic/aortocaval lymphadenopathy (13.3%, 14/105).

Conclusion

Radiologists should be concerned about these frequently overlooked regions in postoperative follow-up MDCT images when potential risks are identiﬁed. Familiarity with these imaging features may aid in the detection of recurrence and facilitate appropriate management.
Minimally invasive resection of a glomus tumor of the thoracic spine: a case report and literature review
Authors: Liao Zhiwei , Chen Chao , Wang Bingjin , Yang Cao
Published: May 2019

Objective

Spinal involvement of glomus tumors is extremely rare. We herein present a case of a spinal glomus tumor and reviewed the literature to identify the most effective surgical treatment of spinal glomus tumors.

Methods

A 48-year-old man presented with a huge paravertebral space-occupying lesion. In this report, we present the diagnostic process and surgical procedure in this case and review the literature of glomus tumors with spine involvement.

Results

We suspected a primary diagnosis of neurilemmoma based on the imaging results; however, the postoperative pathologic examination confirmed a glomus tumor. Considering the size of the tumor and involvement of surrounding areas, we performed complete tumor resection and unilateral fusion with pedicle screws at the T2 to T4 level. This unilateral approach with fixation was less invasive than the standard open posterior approaches that are used when one side of the spinal canal is intact without bony destruction.

Conclusions

Surgical resection is a suitable treatment for most symptomatic glomus tumors. For most glomus tumors with spine involvement, total tumor resection with suitable internal fixation and fusion is recommended.
Sex Work and the Karmic Wheel: How Buddhism Influences Sex Work in China
Authors: Tsang Eileen Yuk-ha , Lowe John
Published: May 2019

As prostitution is widely condemned as a form of criminality in China, there is a need to examine how Buddhism functions not as a form of therapy for the purposes of rehabilitating or deterring prostitution but as a force that encourages participation in prostitution. In this work, we argue that rural–urban migrant sex workers who are Buddhists appropriate the religion’s teachings of compassion, mindfulness, and karma to find a renewed sense of meaning and purpose in their livelihoods. We illustrate how Buddhism allows sex workers to cultivate the affective labor required for the purposes of servicing male clients in conjunction with finding positive purpose in their lives. In doing so, their bodies gain affirmative value in the form of helping their heterosexual male clients address deficits in their masculinities.
Rate effects on the estimation of fracture toughness by small punch tests in hydrogen embrittlement
Authors: Arroyo Borja , Álvarez Jose Alberto , Gutiérrez-Solana Federico , Lacalle Roberto , González Pablo
Published: May 2019

In this article, different techniques to test notched small punch test samples in fracture conditions in aggressive environments are studied, based on the comparison of the micromechanisms at different rates. Pre-embrittled samples subsequently tested in air at rates conventionally employed (0.01 and 0.002 mm/s) are compared to embrittled ones tested in environment at the same rates (0.01 and 0.002 mm/s) and at a very slow rate (5E–5 mm/s). A set of samples tested in environment under a set of constant loads that produce very slow rates completes the experimental results. As a conclusion, it is recommended to test small punch test notched specimens in environment at very slow rates, of around E–6 mm/s, when characterizing in hydrogen embrittlement scenarios, in order to allow the material–environment interaction to govern the process.
Investigating the Strategies for Reducing Motorcycle Mode Choice in Urban Trips: Case Study of Tehran City
Authors: Mirbaha Babak , Mohajeri Fatemeh
Published: May 2019

Motorcycles in Iran, especially in metropolises such as Tehran, are used extensively for various reasons such as low maintenance costs, high maneuverability, and the possibility of entering congestion priced zones without paying a toll. Nevertheless, motorcycles are involved in 25% of accidents and produce almost 30% of air and 50% of noise pollution in Tehran. Current research aims to investigate possible scenarios for reducing the use of motorcycles in Tehran’s traffic and transportation master plan strategies. After designing the scenarios, a stated preference method is used for gathering the required data from various groups of motorcycle riders in Tehran. More than 2,000 questionnaires were completed of which 1,766 were deemed acceptable for data entering and further analysis. Increasing the price of motorcycle maintenance and charging motorcycles to enter the congestion priced zone of Tehran (CPZT) were two main scenarios which were considered in this research. Multinomial and nested logit models were applied to analyze the trip choice behavior of motorcycle riders who had participated in the survey. Results indicated that strategies such as increasing motorcycle maintenance costs could be effective in reducing the use of motorcycles. For instance, increasing motorcycle maintenance costs by 4.7 times and imposing a 70,000 IRR toll price to enter the CP zone resulted in a 66% reduction in motorcycle mode choice by motorcycle riders.
Using Smart Farecard Data to Support Transit Network Restructuring: Findings from Los Angeles
Authors: Vinayak Pragun , Wafa Zeina , Cheung Conan , Tu Stephen , Komanduri Anurag , Overman Jon , Goodwin Doug
Published: May 2019

Recent technological innovations have changed why, when, where, and how people travel. This, along with other changes in the economy, has resulted in declining transit ridership in many U.S. metropolitan regions, including Los Angeles. It is important that transit agencies become data savvy to better align their services with customer demand in an effort to redesign a bus network that is more relevant and reflective of customer needs. This paper outlines a new data intelligence program within the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (LA Metro) that will allow for data-driven decision-making in a nimble and flexible fashion. One resource available to LA Metro is their smart farecard data. The analysis of 4 months of data revealed that the top 5% of riders accounted for over 60% of daily trips. By building heuristics to identify transfers, and by tracking riders through space and time to systematically identify home and work locations, transit trip tables by time of day and purpose were extracted. The transit trip tables were juxtaposed against trip tables generated using disaggregate anonymized cell phone data to measure transit market shares and to evaluate transit competitiveness across several measures such as trip length, travel times relative to auto, trip purpose, and time of day. Relying on observed trips as opposed to simulated model results, this paper outlines the potential of using Big Data in transit planning. This research can be replicated by agencies across the U.S. as they reverse declining ridership while competing with data-savvy technology-driven competitors.
Development and Evaluation of Concrete Barrier Containment Options for Errant Motorcycle Riders
Authors: Silvestri Dobrovolny Chiara , Shi Shengyi , Kovar James , Bligh Roger P.
Published: May 2019

Motorcycles are among the most vulnerable vehicles on the road. Although a combination of different factors may cause motorcycle crashes, an appropriate design of roadside safety systems can play an important role in limiting the severity of motorcycle crashes. Roadside safety systems are not typically designed with the special needs of motorcyclists in mind. The Roadside Design Guide provides guidelines for proper concrete barrier placement on roadways but does not address motorcycle barriers ( 1). The Manual for Assessing Safety Hardware includes testing guidelines and evaluation criteria for roadside safety barriers impacted by errant vehicles but does not address impacts by motorcycles ( 2). There is a need to improve motorcyclist safety by designing and evaluating a containment system for upright errant motorcycle riders impacting a concrete barrier. This system would prevent riders from flying over, while limiting injury severity to the rider during the impact event. In this study, finite element computer simulations were used to assist with the design and evaluation of proposed containment options to be mounted on a concrete barrier. An upright motorcycle full-scale crash test with a Hybrid III 50th percentile male dummy was conducted to evaluate the crashworthiness of a chain link fence containment system supported by U-shaped posts and attached to a curved concrete barrier section. The test was conducted at nominal impact speed of 35 mph and impact angle of 18 degrees to the barrier. During the impact event, the system successfully contained the dummy, which did not interact with the system posts.
Closed-Course Human Factors Evaluation of Marking and Marker Visibility
Authors: Barrette Timothy P. , Pike Adam M.
Published: May 2019

Raised retroreflective pavement markers (RRPMs) are commonly used to provide nighttime delineation of roadways. Although RRPMs are visible during dry conditions, they provide their greatest benefit during wet-night conditions, when typical pavement markings become flooded and lose their retroreflectivite properties. Naturally, the retroreflectivity of RRPMs degrades over time as a result of traffic, ultraviolet light, precipitation, and roadway maintenance activities. Subsequently, it is necessary to examine the relationship between driver performance and the condition of the RRPMs. To assess visibility relative to RRPM condition, study participants rode in the passenger seat of a vehicle operated by a member of the research team, traveling at approximately 15 mph, for two laps around a closed course. Throughout each lap of the course, nine treatments consisting of RRPMs or preformed pavement marking tape of various retroreflectivity levels diverged from a center line to either the right or left. Participants indicated when they could tell which direction the treatment diverged, which was recorded using a GPS unit. A generalized linear model was estimated on a dataset constructed by pairing the observed distances from various treatments with demographic information about each participant. The analysis indicates the distance at which a particular treatment would be visible, which can then be converted to preview time to assess treatment adequacy for a variety of speeds. The RRPM treatments generally provided adequate preview time for older drivers based on the extant literature; however, the preformed pavement marking tape was less adequate at higher speeds and under overhead lighting.
Benefits of Redundant Visual In-Vehicle Information in Pedestrian–Vehicle Conflict Scenarios
Authors: Hoekstra-Atwood Liberty , Hoover Connor , Richard Christian M.
Published: May 2019

The paper provides information relevant to the development of driver and pedestrian safety systems by examining drivers’ responses to infrastructure-based safety messages (DII) with a redundant in-vehicle display component. A driving simulator was used to create a conflict situation which required an immediate driver response to avoid a collision. At the start of the event, a pedestrian was occluded by a truck at an intersection. Partway through the event, the pedestrian dashed into the road and into the driver’s path. When redundant visual in-vehicle alerting messages were provided, drivers released the throttle more quickly, engaged the brake more quickly, and had longer minimum time to collision relative to the baseline condition which lacked visual alerts. This was an improvement over the DII-only condition, where drivers did not brake more quickly relative to baseline and had only marginally longer minimum time to collision compared with the baseline condition. The findings suggest that redundant in-vehicle message information provides a benefit to many drivers over systems that use only infrastructure-based safety systems in vehicle–pedestrian conflicts.
Fracture-Tolerant and Shear-Resistant Interlayers for Mitigation of Reflective Cracking
Authors: Cocconcelli Cristian , Park Bongsuk , Zou Jian , Lopp George , Roque Reynaldo
Published: May 2019

Reflective cracking is frequently reported as the most common distress affecting resurfaced pavements. An asphalt rubber membrane interlayer (ARMI) approach has been traditionally used in Florida to mitigate reflective cracking. However, recent field evidence has raised doubts about the effectiveness of the ARMI when placed near the surface, indicating questionable benefits to reflective cracking and increased instability rutting potential. The main purpose of this research was to develop guidelines for an effective alternative to the ARMI for mitigation of near-surface reflective cracking in overlays on asphalt pavement. Fourteen interlayer mixtures, covering three aggregate types widely used in Florida, and two nominal maximum aggregate sizes (NMAS) were designed according to key characteristics identified for mitigation of reflective cracking, that is, sufficient gradation coarseness and high asphalt content. The dominant aggregate size range—interstitial component (DASR-IC) model was used for the design of all mixture gradations. A composite specimen interface cracking (CSIC) test was employed to evaluate reflective cracking performance of interlayer systems. In addition, asphalt pavement analyzer (APA) tests were performed to determine whether the interlayer mixtures had sufficient rutting resistance. The results indicated that interlayer mixtures designed with lower compaction effort, reduced design air voids, and coarser gradation led to more cost-effective fracture-tolerant and shear-resistant (FTSR) interlayers. Therefore, preliminary design guidelines including minimum effective film thickness and maximum DASR porosity requirements were proposed for 9.5-mm NMAS (35 µm and 50%) and 4.75-mm NMAS FTSR mixtures (20 µm and 60%) to mitigate near-surface reflective cracking.
Traffic Microsimulation for Flexible Utilization of Urban Roadways
Authors: Stevanovic Aleksandar , Mitrovic Nikola
Published: May 2019

The current method of organizing traffic flows in urban networks uses directional right-of-way links to move traffic between urban intersections. Conflict resolution between vehicles is almost exclusively exercised at the intersections, which turns them into bottlenecks of our urban traffic systems. Even an attempt to model a different organization of traffic hits a major barrier, because the traditional simulation models do not offer enough flexibility to model bidirectional traffic on individual links in the network. This paper presents flexible arterial utilization simulation modeling (FAUSIM), a novel microsimulation platform designed to address this deficiency of traditional tools. The outputs from this tool are validated, successfully, in comparison with a commonly utilized Vissim model. The paper then illustrates the ability of FAUSIM to model conventional and unconventional traffic control scenarios. A combined alternate-direction lane assignment and reservation-based intersection control (CADLARIC) scenario is where directional driving paths are altered between neighboring lanes to align vehicles for decreased conflict for left and right turns at intersections where a reservation-based algorithm is utilized to process conflicts. This is compared with a conventional fixed-time (FT) control. The results of the experiments, executed on a small three-intersection corridor, show that CADLARIC significantly outperforms conventional driving with the FT control in relation to traffic efficiency (delays and stops). While the FT control generates fewer (potential) conflicting events, the CADLARIC confidently handles conflicting situations inside and outside the intersections. Future research should further validate the FAUSIM platform and investigate several other unconventional traffic scenarios with connected and automated vehicles.
Proxemics and Kinesics in Automated Vehicle–Pedestrian Communication: Representing Ethnographic Observations
Authors: Domeyer Joshua , Dinparastdjadid Azadeh , Lee John D. , Douglas Grace , Alsaid Areen , Price Morgan
Published: May 2019

Since the introduction of automobiles in the early 1900s, communication among elements of the transportation system has been critical for efficiency, safety, and fairness. Communication mechanisms such as signs, lights, and roadway markings were developed to send signals about affordances (i.e., where and when can I go?) and constraints (i.e., where and when can I not go?). In addition, signals among road users such as the hand wave have emerged to communicate similar information. With the introduction of highly automated vehicles, it may be necessary to understand communication signals and apply them to vehicle automation design. However, the question remains: how do we identify the most important interactions that need to be considered for vehicle automation? We propose a method by which we examine the timing of existing vehicle–pedestrian interactions to make conclusions about how the use of time and space can be used as a communication tool. Videos were recorded at representative intersections and crossings in a mid-sized, Midwestern U.S. town. The intersections were chosen based on their potential to elicit interactions with pedestrians and their ubiquity (e.g., four-way stop). Videos were then coded to describe the interactions between vehicles and pedestrians. A focus of this coding was the short stop—stopping before a crosswalk to communicate yielding intent to a pedestrian—which was defined as the time from when the vehicle began to accelerate, after slowing down, to when it reached the crosswalk. Results revealed evidence that vehicle kinematic and spatial cues signal the driver’s intent to other road users.