KeyedHash#hash(String, int, String)

[Tim Ellison]

Why does
  org.apache.pirk.utils.KeyedHash#hash(String key, int bitSize, String
input)

have
  int fullHash = Math.abs(concat.hashCode());

What is the value of performing the "Math.abs" in computing this hash?

p.s. I now realize I'm entering the toddler phase of Pirk development,
where I wander around constantly asking "why?" :-)

Regards,
Tim