bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stability and bifurcation analysis of the non-linear railway bogie dynamics
Authors: Uyulan Çağlar , Gokasan Metin , Bogosyan Seta
Published: August 2017

It is a critical issue to maintain stability in high-speed railway vehicles and to ensure comfortable and safe driving. Multi-body models of railway vehicles have non-linear properties originated from the wheel–rail contact and characteristics of the suspension systems. The critical speed values at which the unstable oscillations and the amplitudes of the limit cycle-type vibrations take place vary by adjusting the design parameters; therefore, these effects on non-linear railway dynamics must be evaluated with a higher precision by using numerical and/or analytical methods to determine the bifurcation behavior. The main objective of this paper is to examine the non-linear phenomena in a railway bogie from a broad perspective, concentrating on non-linear analysis methods. Thus, non-linear equations of motion of a 12-degrees of freedom railway bogie involving dual wheelsets, non-linear wheel flange contact, heuristic non-linear creep model, and suspension system are solved in the time domain with small time steps by using ode23s (stiff/Mod.Rosenbrock) method. The critical speeds were calculated with respect to the effects of various lateral stiffness and damping coefficients. The bifurcation diagrams of the maximum lateral displacement of the leading wheelset were depicted within a wide speed range. In the case of the suspension parameter set where the subcritical/supercritical Hopf bifurcation takes place, the phase portraits and the symmetric/asymmetric oscillations of the leading wheelset at the critical speed were represented. The type of the Hopf bifurcation can be transformed from the subcritical state to the supercritical state by increasing the given suspension ratio. The Lyapunov exponents of the lateral displacement, lateral velocity, yaw angular displacement, and yaw angular velocity of the leading wheelset were evaluated above the critical speeds to examine chaotic motion. The effect of the suspension parameters on the non-linear dynamical behavior of the railway bogie at the stability limit and on the bifurcation type has been proved.
Application of LIDAR technology for rail surface monitoring and quality indexing
Authors: Taheri Andani Masood , Mohammed Abdullah , Jain Ashish , Ahmadian Mehdi
Published: August 2017

This paper investigates the application of Doppler Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) sensors for the assessment of the top of rail lubricity condition and layer material. Different top of rail conditions are distinguished by the system using a new pair of rail surface indices defined based on LIDAR measurements. These indices provide quantitative representations of the top of rail condition due to the fact that Doppler frequency range and spectral magnitude of a backscattered LIDAR beam are functions of the rail surface figure as well as the light absorption properties of the surface material. Laboratory tests are conducted to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed top of rail indexing operation. The results indicate that LIDAR sensors are capable of detecting and distinguishing between different top of rail surface conditions. Instrumenting rail inspection vehicles with Doppler LIDAR systems reduces reliance on empirical top of rail lubricity and surface assessments (such as observing the sheen of the rail or tactilely sensing various residues on the rail), in favor of reliable and repeatable measurements.
Multi-constrained predictor-corrector reentry guidance for hypersonic vehicles
Authors: Cheng Lin , Wang Zhenbo , Cheng Yang , Zhang Qingzhen , Ni Kin
Published: August 2017

A numerical multi-constrained predictor-corrector guidance algorithm is proposed in this study, focusing on real-time longitudinal trajectory generation, constraint management, and lateral guidance improvement. First, a new compound bank corridor is designed to help convert the complicated trajectory planning problem into a root-finding problem, which is identified by a recursive least squares estimation algorithm and solved by a newly proposed period-crossing steepest descent method within a fraction of a second in Matlab. Second, three constraint enforcement operators are designed based on state prediction and feedback theory, and the long-standing constraint violation problem of predictor-corrector algorithms is addressed by on-board bank angle compensation. Additionally, a new predictive lateral guidance algorithm is proposed based on a cross-range proportional decrement strategy, and the resulting new bank reversal logic with only one user-defined parameter has better performance on reversal controllability and guidance robustness than the traditional algorithms. Finally, extensive numerical simulations are carried out for different mission scenarios with significant dispersions, and the new methodology is proved to be capable of autonomous and robust guidance flight for reentry vehicles.
Adaptive Kalman filter enhanced with spectrum analysis to estimate guidance law parameters with unknown prior statistics
Authors: Du Runle , Liu Jiaqi , Zhou Di , Meng Gang
Published: August 2017

Adaptive Kalman filtering was proposed to handle unknown prior statistics decades ago. The kernel idea of published mainstream works is to use residual-based adaptive estimation or its improved form to determine unknown noise levels to complete iteration equations inside Kalman filter. In this paper, innovative method of noise level estimation is proposed to enhance adaptive Kalman filter. Based on the observation that signal and noise concentrate on different frequency ranges, cluster analysis in frequency domain is made to determine the partitioning frequency and a digital filter is then applied to separate signal from noise. In the proposed method, the noise level and corresponding covariance matrices for adaptive Kalman filter is estimated from measured or predicted target variables separately, so the result is better than the existing residual-based adaptive estimation, which suffers from interferences between variables. The recognition of the guidance law of a chasing vehicle is highly valuable for predicting its future trajectory, evaluating, and optimizing the evasive guidance law of chased vehicle. It is a hard problem to recognize the guidance law parameters due to lack of prior knowledge about the chasing vehicle. In this paper, enhanced frequency divided adaptive Kalman filter is applied to perform guidance law parameter recognition. Digital simulation results show that in several different conditions, the recognition algorithm can provide better results than Sage-Husa.
The Pandemic Influenza Preparedness Framework: A viable procurement option for developing states?
Authors: Eccleston-Turner Mark
Published: August 2017

In this article, I argue that the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Framework is unlikely to have a significant impact on procurement of pandemic influenza vaccines by developing states during the next pandemic. I argue this on the basis that the vaccine stockpile that the Framework has created is not sufficiently large to meet the demand from developing states. I also argue that the fact that so few pandemic influenza vaccine manufacturers have committed to supply the PIP stockpile, and those that have, have given commitments lower than those initially proposed by the World Health Organization in the Framework, implies that the overall impact the PIP stockpile will have on procurement of pandemic influenza vaccines is even lower than initially anticipated within the literature.
A review of ECG and QT interval measurement use in a public psychiatric inpatient setting
Authors: Berling Ingrid , Gupta Rahul , Bjorksten Cecilia , Prior Felicity , Whyte Ian M , Berry Sherman
Published: August 2017

Objectives:

There is an increased rate of sudden cardiac death (SCD) in mental health patients. Some antipsychotic medications are known to prolong the QT interval, thus increasing a patient’s risk of SCD via the arrhythmia, torsades de pointes (TdP). Our aim was to evaluate assessment for QT prolongation within a public inpatient mental health facility by auditing electrocardiograph (ECG) use.

Methods:

We reviewed records of all mental health inpatient admissions to a public emergency mental health inpatient unit between 1 January 2016 and 11 February 2016. ECG availability was noted and QT interval was manually measured and assessed for risk of TdP using the QT nomogram when present. Demographic information and medication use was collected.

Results:

Of 263 mental health inpatient admissions, 50 (19%) presentations had an ECG. A total of four (8%) had a prolonged QT interval. Of the 50 patients with an ECG, 12 (24%) were taking medication known to prolong the QT interval.

Conclusions:

There was very limited risk assessment for QT prolongation in a public hospital psychiatric inpatient unit, with less than 20% of patients having an ECG performed. Our study supports an association between QT-prolonging drugs and a clinically significant prolonged QT interval; however, a larger study with routine ECG screening is required.
Living With Prophylactic ICD Therapy and the Risk of Sudden Cardiac Death: How Patients Negotiate Solutions and Problems
Authors: Grew Julie Christina
Published: August 2017

Prophylactic implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) therapy treats potentially lethal cardiac arrhythmias in patients who have not previously experienced such but are at considerable risk due to underlying heart disease. Most patients are unaware of their risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD) until the ICD is introduced to them. Thus, the problem of risk of death and the solution of ICD therapy are presented simultaneously. Based on ethnographic fieldwork in Danish hospitals, this article illustrates how clinicians narrate prophylactic ICD therapy as a benign therapy preventing risk of death and providing the good life. However, risk of SCD is not the most pressing problem for the patients. The article argues that the solution of ICD therapy ignores patients’ experience of living with severe heart disease and introduces the risk of shock therapy. For patients, a good life does not equal absence of risk of death but a life without heart disease.
“It Can Promote an Existential Crisis”: Factors Influencing Pap Test Acceptability and Utilization Among Transmasculine Individuals
Authors: Peitzmeier Sarah M. , Agénor Madina , Bernstein Ida M. , McDowell Michal , Alizaga Natalie M. , Reisner Sari L. , Pardee Dana J. , Potter Jennifer
Published: August 2017

Transmasculine (i.e., female-to-male transgender) individuals have lower rates of cervical cancer screening than nontransgender women and often report negative experiences with the Pap test. Deciding to undergo screening and the test experience itself are characterized by the following processes: negotiating identity as the patient, provider, and insurance company wrestle with the degree of (in)congruence between a patient’s masculine gender identity and their conception of the Pap test as feminine; bargaining for health as a Pap test may be required to obtain medical transition services or avoid undesired health outcomes; withstanding acute challenges during the Pap test to body, identity, and privacy; or reframing challenges as affirmation. The degree of distress triggered by the Pap test varied from “routine” to traumatic. Participants affirmed that a trusted, trans-competent health care provider could significantly reduce barriers to regular and satisfactory cervical cancer screening. Data are from 32 in-depth interviews conducted in Boston, Massachusetts, with transmasculine individuals; a modified grounded theory approach informed the analysis.
Factors Related to Injury Prevention Programming by Missouri School Nurses
Authors: Rebmann Terri , Weaver Nancy L. , Elliott Michael B. , DeClue Rich W. , Patel Niral J. , Schulte Lauren
Published: August 2017

Schools often offer injury prevention (IP) programs, but little is known about the types of programs provided or how school nurses decide which to choose. Nurses in the Missouri School Health Services Staffing Survey Database were sent a survey in spring, 2011, to describe school-based IP efforts being offered. A multivariate linear regression was conducted to delineate factors associated with offering IP programs. In total, 522 school nurses participated (33% response rate). The highest priority for selecting an IP program was perceived program effectiveness (92.3% agreement, n = 482). Determinants of offering IP programs included being asked to identify a speaker, being a high school, receiving funding in the last year, prioritizing evidence-based programs, perceiving that administrators support professional development, and knowing how to address patterns of injuries. School nurses should be competent in planning, implementing, and evaluating IP programs, and additional training may be required to accomplish this.
Effectiveness, Safety, and Costs of a Treatment Switch to Dolutegravir Plus Rilpivirine Dual Therapy in Treatment-Experienced HIV Patients
Authors: Revuelta-Herrero José Luis , Chamorro-de-Vega Esther , Rodríguez-González Carmen Guadalupe , Alonso Roberto , Herranz-Alonso Ana , Sanjurjo-Sáez María
Published: August 2017

Background: Evidence about the use of dolutegravir (DTG) and rilpivirine (RPV) as an antiretroviral therapy (ART) in treatment-experienced patients is scarce. Objective: To explore the effectiveness, safety, and costs of switching to a DTG plus RPV regimen in this population. Methods: This observational, prospective study included all treatment-experienced patients who switched to DTG plus RPV between November 2014 and July 2016. Patients were excluded if resistance mutations to integrase inhibitors or RPV were found. The effectiveness endpoint was the proportion of patients who achieved virological suppression (viral load [VL] <50 copies/mL) at week 48 (W48). Safety (incidence of adverse events leading to discontinuation and laboratory abnormalities), adherence, and costs were analyzed. Results: A total of 35 patients were included, and 91.4% were virologically suppressed at baseline. Patients were treated with ART for a median of 14 years (interquartile range = 7-20). At W48, 91.4% of patients were virologically suppressed (95% CI = 77.0-98.2). Two of the 3 patients not suppressed at baseline achieved undetectable VL at W48, and 2 patients discontinued DTG plus RPV (intolerance and a drug-drug interaction). None of the virologically suppressed patients at baseline showed virological rebound through W48. There were no significant changes in lipid, liver, and renal profiles. The proportion of patients with an ART adherence >90% increased from 65.6% to 93.8% ( P = 0.004). The annual per-patient ART costs dropped by €665 ( P = 0.265). Conclusions: Switching to DTG plus RPV seems to be an effective and safe strategy. Significant improvements in patients’ adherence and costs were achieved.
Optimizing the Treatment of Steroid-Induced Hyperglycemia
Authors: Wallace Matthew D. , Metzger Nicole L.
Published: August 2017

Objective: To review therapeutic strategies for the management of patients with steroid-induced hyperglycemia. Data Sources: A literature search of MEDLINE/PubMed (1990 to June 2017) was conducted using the search terms steroid, glucocorticoid, corticosteroid, hyperglycemia, and diabetes as well via review of literature citations. Study Selection and Data Extraction: Relevant clinical trials and case studies focusing on pharmacological interventions in humans were reviewed for inclusion. Articles discussing islet cell transplant were excluded. Data Synthesis: Hyperglycemia is a predictable adverse effect of glucocorticoid therapy, which is associated with negative outcomes, including an odds ratio of 1.36 for developing new-onset diabetes. A variety of strategies have been utilized for managing patients who are at risk of complications caused by steroid-induced hyperglycemia. Agents such as sulfonylureas, thiazolidinediones, meglitinides, metformin, dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP-4) inhibitors, glucagon-like peptidase-1 agonists, and insulin have been evaluated in case studies and small clinical trials with varying degrees of success. Conclusions: Since there are limited clinical data available to guide therapy, strategies that minimize the risk of adverse effects should be selected for the management of steroid-induced hyperglycemia. Therapies that may be safe and effective given current information include DPP-4 inhibitors, metformin, and weight-based neutral protamine Hagedorn insulin.
Modal control based on direct modal parameters estimation
Authors: Chomette Baptiste , Mamou-Mani Adrien
Published: August 2017

Modal active control is based on a state model that requires the identification of modal parameters. This identification can typically be done through a rational fraction polynomial algorithm applied in the frequency domain. This method generates numerical problems when estimating high-order models, particularly when moving from the basis of orthogonal polynomials for the modal basis. This algorithm must therefore be applied independently on multiple frequency ranges with a low order for each range. In this case, the controller design cannot be automated and requires a lot of human intervention, especially to build the state space model. To address this issue, this paper presents the application of the direct modal parameters estimation (DMPE) algorithm for active modal control design. The identification algorithm is presented in a simplified version with only positive frequencies. Unlike other classical identification methods in the frequency domain, the DMPE algorithm provides a solution with a great numerical stability and allows estimating models with a higher order. Using this method, the design of the controller can be largely automated and requires a minimum of human intervention. After a theoretical presentation, the proposed method is experimentally validated by controlling the vibration modes of a suspended plate.
Variational characterization of real eigenvalues in linear viscoelastic oscillators
Authors: Mohammadi Seyyed Abbas , Voss Heinrich
Published: August 2017

This paper proposes a new approach for computing the real eigenvalues of a multiple-degrees-of-freedom viscoelastic system in which we assume an exponentially decaying damping. The free-motion equations lead to a nonlinear eigenvalue problem. If the system matrices are symmetric, the eigenvalues allow for a variational characterization of maxmin type, and the eigenvalues and eigenvectors can be determined very efficiently by the safeguarded iteration, which converges quadratically and, for extreme eigenvalues, monotonically. Numerical methods demonstrate the performance and the reliability of the approach. The method succeeds where some current approaches, with restrictive physical assumptions, fail.
A novel meta-lattice sandwich structure for dynamic load mitigation
Authors: Li Bing , Liu Yongquan , Tan Kwek-Tze
Published: August 2017

In this article, a novel meta-lattice sandwich structure is proposed and designed for impulsive wave attenuation and dynamic load mitigation. This original meta-lattice truss core sandwich structure has a similar configuration as a normal lattice sandwich structure, except that its truss bars are composed of meta-lattice truss unit cells. The design philosophy of locally resonant elastic metamaterials is integrated into the meta-lattice truss unit cell whereby a relatively heavier metal core (the resonator) is coated with a soft material layer (rubber coat), which is then connected to an outer shell. Based on this unique construction, several frequency band gaps are created by the locally resonant behavior of the specially designed resonators, in which stress waves within the stopping band gaps are not able to propagate through the material. Analytical spring-mass model is employed to predict the frequency band gaps, whereas numerical finite element simulation is utilized to model the continuum structure under impulsive loadings. The impact response, wave attenuation, and stress distribution contours between normal sandwich structure and meta-lattice sandwich structure are compared and analyzed. The mechanisms of wave mitigation and energy absorption by the internal resonators are thoroughly investigated. Results evidently show that the proposed meta-lattice sandwich structure has a more superior ability for impact mitigation and higher kinetic energy absorption capability due to the locally resonant behavior of the internal resonators.
A refined quasi-3D shear deformation theory for thermo-mechanical behavior of functionally graded sandwich plates on elastic foundations
Authors: Mahmoudi Abdelkader , Benyoucef Samir , Tounsi Abdelouahed , Benachour Abdelkader , Adda Bedia El Abbas , Mahmoud SR
Published: August 2017

In this paper, a refined quasi-three-dimensional shear deformation theory for thermo-mechanical analysis of functionally graded sandwich plates resting on a two-parameter (Pasternak model) elastic foundation is developed. Unlike the other higher-order theories the number of unknowns and governing equations of the present theory is only four against six or more unknown displacement functions used in the corresponding ones. Furthermore, this theory takes into account the stretching effect due to its quasi-three-dimensional nature. The boundary conditions in the top and bottoms surfaces of the sandwich functionally graded plate are satisfied and no correction factor is required. Various types of functionally graded material sandwich plates are considered. The governing equations and boundary conditions are derived using the principle of virtual displacements. Numerical examples, selected from the literature, are illustrated. A good agreement is obtained between numerical results of the refined theory and the reference solutions. A parametric study is presented to examine the effect of the material gradation and elastic foundation on the deflections and stresses of functionally graded sandwich plate resting on elastic foundation subjected to thermo-mechanical loading.
Complete Mitochondrial Genomes of the Cherskii’s Sculpin Cottus czerskii and Siberian Taimen Hucho taimen Reveal GenBank Entry Errors: Incorrect Species Identification and Recombinant Mitochondrial Genome
Authors: Balakirev Evgeniy S , Saveliev Pavel A , Ayala Francisco J
Published: August 2017

The complete mitochondrial (mt) genome is sequenced in 2 individuals of the Cherskii’s sculpin Cottus czerskii. A surprisingly high level of sequence divergence (10.3%) has been detected between the 2 genomes of C czerskii studied here and the GenBank mt genome of C czerskii (KJ956027). At the same time, a surprisingly low level of divergence (1.4%) has been detected between the GenBank C czerskii (KJ956027) and the Amur sculpin Cottus szanaga (KX762049, KX762050). We argue that the observed discrepancies are due to incorrect taxonomic identification so that the GenBank accession number KJ956027 represents actually the mt genome of C szanaga erroneously identified as C czerskii. Our results are of consequence concerning the GenBank database quality, highlighting the potential negative consequences of entry errors, which once they are introduced tend to be propagated among databases and subsequent publications. We illustrate the premise with the data on recombinant mt genome of the Siberian taimen Hucho taimen (NCBI Reference Sequence Database NC_016426.1; GenBank accession number HQ897271.1), bearing 2 introgressed fragments (≈0.9 kb [kilobase]) from 2 lenok subspecies, Brachymystax lenok and Brachymystax lenok tsinlingensis, submitted to GenBank on June 12, 2011. Since the time of submission, the H taimen recombinant mt genome leading to incorrect phylogenetic inferences was propagated in multiple subsequent publications despite the fact that nonrecombinant H taimen genomes were also available (submitted to GenBank on August 2, 2014; KJ711549, KJ711550). Other examples of recombinant sequences persisting in GenBank are also considered. A GenBank Entry Error Depositary is urgently needed to monitor and avoid a progressive accumulation of wrong biological information.
Comparison of 3 Derivatization Methods for the Analysis of Amphetamine-Related Drugs in Oral Fluid by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Mohamed Khaled M , Bakdash Abdulsallam
Published: August 2017

The heptafluorobutyric anhydride (HFBA), pentafluoropropionic anhydride (PFPA), and trifluoroacetic anhydride (TFAA) are compared as derivatizing reagents to use as the optimal method for the analysis of 10 amphetamines and cathinones in oral fluid. The target compounds were amphetamine (AMP), methamphetamine (MA), 4-methylamphetamine, 3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA), 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), 3,4-methylenedioxy- N-ethylamphetamine (MDEA), cathinone (CAT), methcathinone, mephedrone, and ephedrine. Amphetamine-D5, MA-D5, MDA-D5, MDMA-D5, and MDEA-D5 use as internal standards (IS). The analytes and IS were extracted from 0.5 mL of oral fluid by ethyl acetate in the presence of NaOH (0.1 N) as the base and then the dried extracts were derivatized with HFBA, PFPA, or TFAA at 70°C for 30 minutes. The limits of quantification based on signal-to-noise ratios ≥10 were ranged between 2.5 and 10 ng/mL. The calibration graphs were linear in the range of 5 or 10 to 1000 ng/mL for all analytes. Based on sensitivity, the PFPA is proved to be the best for derivatization of the target compounds prior to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis.
Flow Cytometric Immune Profiling in Infliximab-Associated Tuberculosis
Authors: Pennington Kelly , Sasieta Humberto C , Ramos Guiherme P , Erskine Courtney L , Van Keulen Virginia P , Peikert Tobias , Escalante Patricio
Published: August 2017

Tumor necrosis factor α antagonists are increasingly used to treat inflammatory and autoimmune disorders and are associated with increased risk of active tuberculosis. Diagnosis of active tuberculosis in patients taking tumor necrosis factor α antagonists can be challenging owing to increased incidence of extrapulmonary manifestations and false-negative results on current available diagnostic tests. We present a case of a young woman on infliximab for ulcerative colitis who presented with disseminated tuberculosis. As part of a research study, we performed flow cytometric immune profiling, which has previously not been reported in patients with active tuberculosis taking tumor necrosis α antagonists. The flow cytometry results were within the positive thresholds for tuberculosis infection. Flow cytometric immune profiling may be a valid diagnostic tool for patients taking tumor necrosis factor α antagonists.
Cadmium Nephropathy and Smoking
Authors: Price Robert G
Published: August 2017

Cadmium is a non-essential metal which because of its extensive use in industry and agriculture presents a worldwide health hazard. Long-term exposure to cadmium results in nephropathy characterised by interstitial nephritis affecting the renal tubules. In addition to occupational exposure, cadmium can contaminate food and water increasing the number of people at risk of developing chronic renal disease. It is now known that smoking is an independent risk factor for renal disease. The current knowledge of the molecular mechanisms initiating and progressing cadmium nephrotoxicity is now partly understood and research on the molecular effects of nicotine on the kidney is ongoing. The exacerbation of renal disease by smoking is an increasing problem. It is concluded that where there is potential exposure to cadmium, either occupationally or environmentally, individuals should be encouraged to cease smoking.
Making inroads: a critical examination of the ABC’s commitment to local news
Authors: Freeman Julie , Hess Kristy , Waller Lisa
Published: August 2017

This article examines the Australian Broadcasting Corporation’s (ABC) provision of local news to rural and regional communities. Drawing on critiques of the public sphere and its relationship to public service media, it analyses submissions to a Parliamentary Bill to include rural and regional amendments in the ABC’s Charter. The analysis reveals three key concerns: resourcing and restructuring of rural/regional newsrooms, declining local news content and voices, and inequality of access to the ABC. The submissions indicate that geography continues to shape understandings of issues that matter and how news is received. However, amid ABC funding cuts and digital adaptations, the quality of local news is relegated in favour of promoting national identity and universal appeal. This article contends that the ABC’s current Charter resonates with outdated conceptualisations of a singular public sphere. A framework enabling construction of geographically targeted localised communication spaces would instead direct resources where they are needed most in rural and regional locations.
Travel motivations of Iranian tourists to Turkey and their satisfaction level with all-inclusive package tours
Authors: Ozturk Yuksel , Allahyari San Rana , Okumus Fevzi , Rahimi Roya
Published: August 2017

This study aims to investigate Iranian tourists’ travel motivations to Turkey and their satisfaction level with all-inclusive package tours to this country. Based on an in-depth literature review, a questionnaire was developed and data were collected from 383 Iranian tourists who stayed in resort hotels in Antalya, Turkey. The research findings reveal that entertainment, being a family friendly destination, weather, cultural resources and quality of resort hotels were the main motivational factors among Iranian tourists for visiting Turkey. Main reasons for the participants for selecting all-inclusive package tours include predetermined schedules, service quality, set price and elimination of extra spending. The research findings show a high level of satisfaction with all-inclusive package tours. However, there were differences among respondents based on gender and age. The study concludes with offering specific theoretical and practical implications. Suggestions for future research are also provided.
Parental concerns and attributions of food pickiness and its consequences for the parent–child relationship: A qualitative analysis
Authors: Rubio Bérengère , Rigal Natalie
Published: August 2017

A qualitative study was conducted to identify how parents describe and attribute their toddler’s food pickiness, a common pediatric problem during childhood. Parental strategies to respond to picky behaviors were also explored in this study. Focus groups were used with 38 parents of children aged 18–38 months. Results highlighted several consequences of child pickiness such as parental concerns about child’s growth and health, conflicts at mealtime, and feelings of guilt. Parents attributed food pickiness mainly as a manifestation of opposition and assertiveness by their child. Some strategies known to be effective were applied by parents (such as repeated exposure, modeling, co-preparing meals, and using a flavor-based approach) but some strategies that are counterproductive were also highlighted (such as rewards for eating). Parents need to be better informed about food pickiness and the strategies that help to overcome it. Understanding parental beliefs may help pediatricians to offer appropriate guidance adapted to parental experiences and feelings.
Analysing tourists’ arrivals from the US to Taiwan for various purposes
Authors: Chen Yen-Hsun
Published: August 2017

Faced with the many diverse products supplied by modern tourism agents, it is important to understand the differences among tourists’ demands, based on their different travelling purposes. This paper tries to sort US tourists by their purposes for which they came to Taiwan and to understand how economic factors affect US tourists’ decisions to travel. For the long-term analysis, Johansen’s cointegration test is used to discern if a long-term relationship exists. To conduct a short-term analysis, this paper employs vector autoregression to estimate the responses of US tourists for specific purposes to the shocks of changes in gross national income, cost of living and substitute price. The short-term equilibrium adjustment processes are discussed in terms of generalised impulse responses.
Railway bridge structural health monitoring and fault detection: State-of-the-art methods and future challenges
Authors: Vagnoli Matteo , Remenyte-Prescott Rasa , Andrews John
Published: August 2017

Railway importance in the transportation industry is increasing continuously, due to the growing demand of both passenger travel and transportation of goods. However, more than 35% of the 300,000 railway bridges across Europe are over 100-years old, and their reliability directly impacts the reliability of the railway network. This increased demand may lead to higher risk associated with their unexpected failures, resulting safety hazards to passengers and increased whole life cycle cost of the asset. Consequently, one of the most important aspects of evaluation of the reliability of the overall railway transport system is bridge structural health monitoring, which can monitor the health state of the bridge by allowing an early detection of failures. Therefore, a fast, safe and cost-effective recovery of the optimal health state of the bridge, where the levels of element degradation or failure are maintained efficiently, can be achieved. In this article, after an introduction to the desired features of structural health monitoring, a review of the most commonly adopted bridge fault detection methods is presented. Mainly, the analysis focuses on model-based finite element updating strategies, non-model-based (data-driven) fault detection methods, such as artificial neural network, and Bayesian belief network–based structural health monitoring methods. A comparative study, which aims to discuss and compare the performance of the reviewed types of structural health monitoring methods, is then presented by analysing a short-span steel structure of a railway bridge. Opportunities and future challenges of the fault detection methods of railway bridges are highlighted.
MicroRNA-31 inhibits RhoA-mediated tumor invasion and chemotherapy resistance in MKN-45 gastric adenocarcinoma cells
Authors: Korourian Alireza , Roudi Raheleh , Shariftabrizi Ahmad , Madjd Zahra
Published: August 2017

microRNAs are small single-stranded non-coding RNA molecules which modify gene expression by silencing potential target genes. The aberrant expression of RhoA, a small GTPase protein of Rho family, is involved in gastric cancer tumorigenesis. Since miR-31 is a pleomorphic molecule, we evaluated the miR-31/RhoA axis in inducing the malignant phenotype of gastric cancer cells MKN-45. Also, the clinicopathological significance of RhoA was investigated in a well-defined collection of gastric carcinomas which were embedded in tissue microarray blocks. Induction of miR-31 in MKN-45 followed by suppression of RhoA expression resulted in increased sensitivity to 5-fluorouracil, inhibition of cell proliferation, and invasion compared to the control groups. Immunohistochemical analysis in gastric adenocarcinoma patients’ samples showed significantly higher expression of RhoA in diffuse versus intestinal subtype tumors ( P = 0.009), poorly differentiated versus well and moderately differentiated tumors ( P = 0.03) and the presence of vascular invasion versus the absence of vascular invasion ( P = 0.04). Our findings suggest a critical role for miR-31, as a tumor suppressor gene, in gastric cancer tumorigenesis by targeting the RhoA.

Impact statement

Gastric cancer ranks as the third leading cause of cancer-associated deaths worldwide. The RhoA gene encodes a small GTPase protein of Rho family (RhoA) that its dysregulation is associated with cell motility and invasion. A strong line of evidence supports the regulation of RhoA by a number of miRs, including miR-31 in tumors. Our findings revealed that miR-31 is involved in gastric cancer tumorigenesis as a tumor suppressor gene. Through down-regulation of RhoA, miR-31 decreased cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in gastric cancer cells. In addition, induction of miR-31 increased sensitivity to 5-FU; thus, increasing its tissue concentrations could be a potential target for treatment of gastric cancer in the future.
Shadowing school principals: what do we learn?
Authors: Tulowitzki Pierre
Published: August 2017

While shadowing as a method has been analysed and discussed, these discussions have often been focused on (business) management research as opposed to school leadership research. Additionally, little attention has so far been paid to the parameters of shadowing. Without knowledge of these matters, the validity, merits and difficulties of shadowing and data collected through shadowing are impossible to assess. This contribution aims at tackling these issues. First, it attempts to offer an overview of shadowing. Next, studies on school principals making use of shadowing are analysed, guided by the following research questions: What are the aims of the studies? How is shadowing defined by the author(s)? What are the parameters of the shadowing activities (duration, observers, observed persons)? What are the categories of observation? In conjunction with what other – if any – methods is shadowing used? What – if any – merits or pitfalls of shadowing are discussed?

Finally, implications of the current use of shadowing are discussed and suggestions are offered to address desiderata uncovered during the analysis as well as to further develop the method.
Investigating inspirational leader communication in an elite team sport context
Authors: Smith Matthew J , Figgins Sean G , Jewiss Matthew , Kearney Philip E
Published: August 2017

The purpose of this study was to examine how leader communication inspires athletes in a team sport context. Footage of elite rugby coaches and athlete leaders delivering genuine speeches were used as a stimulus. Team sport athletes ( n = 20) watched this footage and identified which aspects of the communication inspired them. Follow-up interviews were conducted to explore what the participants were inspired by and why. Thematic analyses revealed six main dimensions of what was inspiring within the content of the speech, including showing how the team can be successful, embracing and reinforcing the underdog status, and creating pride and unity within the team. In addition, a number of features of effective delivery were identified, including the tone of voice, fluency of speech, and the way key ideas were emphasised.
The change of Beijing image in the foreign media: An analysis of coverage by mainstream English media
Authors: Yu Guoming , Wang Mengyu
Published: August 2017

Adopting primarily content analysis, the paper collected, through sampling, a total of 1088 articles on Beijing from 18 English-based mainstream Western media between 1 January 2004 and 31 December 2014. The analysis covered article number, subject, style and report direction. Extending on such basis, in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine foreign correspondents stationed in Beijing, who come from the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, the Netherland, Italy, Japan, Malaysia and Brazil. A survey was also carried out among foreign correspondents based in Beijing, so as to obtain a general view of the international image of Beijing and its evolution as shaped by foreign media. The mechanisms adopted by foreign media in shaping the image of Beijing and the influencing factors were also analysed.
Twenty-First-Century Skills of Alternative Learning System Learners
Authors: Tindowen Darin Jan C. , Bassig John Michael , Cagurangan Jay-Ar
Published: August 2017

Education plays a very important role in the development and progress of a certain nation. With the advancement of science and technology, it is indeed that globalization and internalization of education are considered as challenges that every country must uphold. And one of the emphases of today’s challenges in education is the promotion of 21st-century skills among students. However, it is also a reality that a huge number of the world population are dropouts, out-of-school youth, and even individuals who do not go to formal schooling. And as a result, these individuals who do not go to formal schooling have difficulties in understanding and learning 21st-century skills which enable them to cope with and to compete in the globalized world. And to cope with these challenges given by the changing world and knowledge economy, alternatives were presented and implemented by the countries around the world such as the Philippines to help individuals attain education through nonformal and informal education such as the Alternative Learning System (ALS). This study was conducted to determine the 21st-century skills of ALS learners of Northern Philippines. In all, 150 ALS learners across five schools in Northern Philippines participated in the study through descriptive survey method. Results revealed that the ALS learners have a low level of acquisition of 21st-century skills. Furthermore, results of the independent-sample t test and one-way ANOVA test revealed that sex, age, and employment status affect the acquisition of learners on 21st-century skills.
Reducing Fear During Childhood to Prevent Anxiety Disorders Later: Insights From Developmental Psychobiology
Authors: Kim Jee Hyun
Published: August 2017

Anxiety disorders are neurodevelopmental with the median age of onset 10 to 11 years, but developmental processes underlying fear and anxiety are rarely investigated. In the last decade, however, developmental rodent studies have increased our understanding of how to treat and prevent the persistence of anxiety. Behavioral findings from rodent studies match the observations in anxious children, and the neural and molecular findings help explain why anxiety disorders are indeed neurodevelopmental. Extinction processes that are involved in cognitive-behavioral therapy appear particularly effective in children compared with older populations. Policy should mandate school psychologists and government subsidies for therapy sessions to increase children’s mental-health-service utilization. Funding bodies also should challenge anxiety studies exclusively targeting adults to include younger people to investigate why anxiety disorders are developmental disorders and focus more on preventing their persistence later in life.
Health Risk Perception and Risk Communication
Authors: Schmälzle Ralf , Renner Britta , Schupp Harald T.
Published: August 2017

Risk perceptions are a prerequisite for protective action. Both scientists and practitioners need to understand the multifaceted nature of health risk perception and risk communication. This article reviews insights from psychophysiological research, with a focus on neuroscientific approaches that examine the biological basis of risk perception in the brain and capture the brain response to health and risk messages. Specifically, we discuss the key role of intuitive processes for personal risk perception and the difference between absolute and comparative risk. We then describe the relationship between risk perception and health behavior change and present recent work that measures responses to health prevention messages. Finally, we discuss implications for translation to public health policy and point to needs for future research. A better understanding of the biological roots of personal risk perception and how these can be addressed via risk communication informs policymakers in designing effective public health interventions.
Paternal Incarceration and Teachers’ Expectations of Students
Authors: Wildeman Christopher , Scardamalia Kris , Walsh Elizabeth G. , O’Brien Rourke L. , Brew Bridget
Published: August 2017

In the past 40 years, paternal imprisonment has been transformed from an event affecting only the most unfortunate children to one that one in four African American children experience. Although research speculates that the stigma, strain, and separation resulting from paternal incarceration cause the poor outcomes of children of incarcerated fathers, evidence regarding these mechanisms is lacking. In this article, we use an experimental vignette design to provide causal evidence regarding how the stigma of paternal incarceration affects third- to fifth-grade teachers’ expectations of students in a large southwestern school district (N = 107). We then replicate this experiment using an online Qualtrics panel of third- to fifth-grade teachers (N = 314). The results indicate that the stigma of paternal incarceration shapes teachers’ expectations of students, leading to a 10 percent to 40 percent increase in teachers’ expectations of children’s behavioral problems.
Does Surgical Volume Influence the Need for Second Surgery? A Pilot Study
Authors: Judge Paul D. , Menousek Joseph , Schramm Jordan C. , Cusick Robert , Lydiatt William
Published: August 2017

Objective

To examine outcomes of pediatric thyroidectomy in the context of training background, institution, and experience of the surgeon.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

A tertiary academic medical center and a pediatric hospital.

Subjects and Methods

Eighty‐one thyroidectomy patients younger than 18 years. Outcomes were major complications (recurrent laryngeal nerve injury, permanent hypocalcemia, and wound infection), length of stay (LOS), and need for repeat surgery.

Results

Eighty‐one patients, 39 from the University of Nebraska Medical Center and 42 from the Children’s Hospital and Medical Center–Omaha, were identified over a 12‐year time period. No difference was found in surgeon training (otolaryngology/head and neck surgery vs general/pediatric surgery) for complications (1 vs 1, odds ratio [OR] = 0.76, 95% confidence interval [CI] = [0.05, 13.1]), LOS >1 day (5 vs 13, OR = 0.39, 95% CI = [0.13, 1.24]), or need for second surgery (4 vs 7, OR = 1.47, 95% CI = [0.39, 5.49]). Higher surgeon volume (≥12 surgeries) was found to be significant for decreased need for second surgery (3 vs 8, OR = 6.67, 95% CI = [1.57, 27.17]). Patients of higher‐volume surgeons were 4.2 times more likely to stay in the hospital 1 day or less compared with those patients operated on by surgeons with less experience (7 vs 11, 95% CI = [1.59, 15.0]).

Conclusions

Need for second surgery in pediatric thyroidectomy may be predicted by surgical volume.
Has the wage Phillips curve changed in the euro area?
Authors: Bulligan Guido , Viviano Eliana
Published: August 2017

Increasing evidence shows that in the aftermath of the global financial crisis, in the euro area, the relationship between price inflation and economic slack became stronger. Instead, there is no clear evidence of a strong(er) relationship between wage inflation and unemployment. In this paper, we estimate a Phillips curve with time-varying coefficients separately for Italy, Spain, Germany and France and we find that, with the exception of Germany, after the global financial crisis, the sensitivity of hourly wage changes to labour market slack increased. Second, by the use of administrative microdata, available only for Italy, we relate daily wage changes to the local unemployment rate. The results confirm the steepening of the Phillips curve after 2008, also when controlling for composition effects.