bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do Auditor Advocacy Attitudes Impede Audit Objectivity?
Authors: Pennington Robin , Schafer Jennifer K. , Pinsker Robert
Published: April 2016

Biased evaluation of evidence exists when an auditor either over-emphasizes evidence that supports management assertions or over-emphasizes evidence against management assertions. This study examines if an auditor’s advocacy attitudes lead to bias in information search for audit evidence. We measure the range of advocacy attitudes of individual auditors and hypothesize that auditors at either end of the advocacy spectrum may impede the objectivity of evidence gathered. Results from 60 Big 4 auditors indicate that advocacy attitudes affect both initial judgments and consequent search strategies of auditors. When initial judgments are client-favorable, all auditors exhibit search strategies focused on finding evidence to take a more conservative position; however, when initial judgments represent an unfavorable client position, auditors with lower advocacy attitudes exhibit a stronger tendency to search for additional evidence against a client-favorable position, consistent with a confirmation bias. Conversely, auditors with more neutral attitudes plan a more objective search effectively mitigating the bias. Aggregate findings establish an important link between bias and information search that may manifest itself in auditor training procedures and be of interest to auditing regulators.
Role Breadth and Role Performance: An Empirical Investigation
Authors: Srikanth P.B  , Jomon M.G.
Published: April 2016

Based on role theory, the present study examines theoretically meaningful, yet infrequently studied relationship between organization identification, autonomy orientation and competence mobilization in predicting role breadth and role performance. Data collected from employees ( n = 178) and supervisors ( n = 67) working in a large information technology (IT) company based in India was analyzed using hierarchical regression to test the hypotheses. Results show that organization identification, autonomy orientation and competence mobilization were positively related to role breadth. Specifically, role breadth mediates the relationship between organization identification, autonomy orientation and competence mobilization and role performance. Discussion shows insights into theoretical and practical perspectives.
When administrative reforms produce territorial differentiation. How market-oriented policies transform military brownfield reconversion in France (1989–2012)
Authors: Artioli Francesca
Published: April 2016

The article explores the territorial dimension of the reforms that remould state administrations, which is overlooked by both public sector and territorial politics literatures. It is based on a fine-grained case study of how the emergence of an administrative reform aimed at strengthening market coordination in the management and sale of public real estate in France has affected previously existing forms of military real estate management that relied on central and local political bargaining. While existing literature argues that market-oriented administrative reforms tend to side-line political regulation, this reform entails a differentiation rather than a replacement of the operating codes of the state in territories. Indeed, policy change through layering causes the consolidation of different land regimes, a planning-oriented one and a market-oriented one, that apply differentially in territories and leave the local governments with uneven rooms of manoeuvre for political negotiation.
Electrically powered indoor/outdoor chair performance for children aged 7 to 9 years
Authors: McCourt Eileen , Casey Jackie
Published: April 2016

Introduction

Northern Ireland wheelchair guidelines state that wheelchair users who wish to drive their National Health Service provided powered wheelchairs outdoors must complete an electrically powered indoor/outdoor chair test. Within the same guidelines, children in Northern Ireland under the age of 10 years are not permitted to complete this assessment. Research was completed to evaluate how children under 10 years would perform in electrically powered indoor/outdoor chair training and testing under adult supervision.

Method

A case-study design was utilised with three children aged 7–9 years to evaluate if: (a) these children can complete electrically powered indoor/outdoor chair training/testing safely with adult supervision; (b) the length of time using an electric powered indoor chair correlates with performance on electrically powered indoor chair training/testing; (c) the current Northern Ireland guidelines on age restriction should be re-evaluated so that each child is assessed on an individual basis rather than age.

Findings

Paediatric powered wheelchair users aged seven to nine years can become competent electrically powered indoor/outdoor chair users with adequate training and adult supervision. Length of time (years) driving an electrically powered indoor chair may not correlate with improved electrically powered indoor/outdoor chair performance.

Conclusion

Regional Northern Ireland criteria relating to electrically powered indoor/outdoor chair provision for children should be revised in order to consider an individual needs assessment, rather than imposing an age restriction.
Occupational therapy and the therapeutic use of self
Authors: Solman Bridie , Clouston Teena
Published: April 2016

The therapeutic use of self is a term used to encapsulate the therapist’s role in working consciously with the interpersonal side of the therapeutic relationship to facilitate an optimal experience and outcome for the client. In occupational therapy, although the literature is replete in references to the topic, there is a paucity of current debate and it remains an elusive aspect of practice. This raises an intriguing point: if the therapeutic use of self is as central to the profession as the rhetoric suggests, why does a lack of clarity in its practice remain? The purpose of this opinion piece is to explore these issues, and consider the potential for refocusing on this aspect of our skills set to meet the challenges of contemporary practice.
Prediction and Outcome of Intensive Care Unit-Acquired Paresis
Authors: Peñuelas Oscar , Muriel Alfonso , Frutos-Vivar Fernando , Fan Eddy , Raymondos Konstantinos , Rios Fernando , Nin Nicolás , Thille Arnaud W. , González Marco , Villagomez Asisclo J. , Davies Andrew R. , Du Bin , Maggiore Salvatore M. , Matamis Dimitrios , Abroug Fekri , Moreno Rui P. , Kuiper Michael A. , Anzueto Antonio , Ferguson Niall D. , Esteban Andrés
Published: April 2016

Background:

Intensive care unit-acquired paresis (ICUAP) is associated with poor outcomes. Our objective was to evaluate predictors for ICUAP and the short-term outcomes associated with this condition.

Methods:

A secondary analysis of a prospective study including 4157 mechanically ventilated adults in 494 intensive care units from 39 countries. After sedative interruption, patients were screened for ICUAP daily, which was defined as the presence of symmetric and flaccid quadriparesis associated with decreased or absent deep tendon reflexes. A multinomial logistic regression was used to create a predictive model for ICUAP. Propensity score matching was used to estimate the relationship between ICUAP and short-term outcomes (ie, weaning failure and intensive care unit [ICU] mortality).

Results:

Overall, 114 (3%) patients had ICUAP. Variables associated with ICUAP were duration of mechanical ventilation (relative risk ratio [RRR] per day, 1.10; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.08-1.12), steroid therapy (RRR 1.8; 95% CI, 1.2-2.8), insulin therapy (RRR 1.8; 95% CI 1.2-2.7), sepsis (RRR 1.9; 95% CI: 1.2 to 2.9), acute renal failure (RRR 2.2; 95% CI 1.5-3.3), and hematological failure (RRR 1.9; 95% CI: 1.2-2.9). Coefficients were used to generate a weighted scoring system to predict ICUAP. ICUAP was significantly associated with both weaning failure (paired rate difference of 22.1%; 95% CI 9.8-31.6%) and ICU mortality (paired rate difference 10.5%; 95% CI 0.1-24.0%).

Conclusions:

Intensive care unit-acquired paresis is relatively uncommon but is significantly associated with weaning failure and ICU mortality. We constructed a weighted scoring system, with good discrimination, to predict ICUAP in mechanically ventilated patients at the time of awakening.
Victim Consciousness Among Youth and Their Responses to Violent Encounters
Authors: Zaykowski Heather
Published: April 2016

This study examines how youth interpret potentially violent encounters, their own identity as victims, and their responses to dangerous situations. The purpose is to understand when “victimization” does or does not lead to a violent response and how individuals negotiate risky situations. Qualitative interviews from 147 youth, aged 12 to 23 across three high-crime neighborhoods in Philadelphia, were examined. Of these youth, 86 individuals described 136 encounters with violent or threatening situations. Coding examined themes in youth perceptions of these encounters, as well as their responses. Three themes emerged in the youth’s accounts: youth as victims, youth as street smart, and youth action as self-defense. Youth’s understanding of risk and situational dynamics of the encounter shaped their perceptions of violent incidents and consequently if they responded with violence or used other strategies such as help seeking, avoidance, negotiation, or tolerance. Youth’s understanding of victimhood should be considered in research on the victim–offender overlap and generally in youth violence studies. Implications for the victim–offender overlap include incorporating a more nuanced perspective on social distance and power dynamics as understood by victims. Implications for policy include providing culturally sensitive violence reduction models and victim services that account for youth’s own understanding of their experiences.
Household Location and Economic Development in the Chicago Metropolitan Statistical Area
Authors: Testa William A. , Sander William
Published: April 2016

The patterns of where households live within the Chicago Metropolitan Statistical Area are examined over the 1990 to 2010 period with respect to their socioeconomic characteristics. It is seen that city–suburban differences in educational attainment have been eliminated over time. This is particularly the case for non-Hispanic Whites living in Chicago who have become substantially more likely to have a college degree relative to their suburban counterparts. In contrast, educational attainment has a rising propensity of African Americans and Hispanics to suburbanize, especially those households containing children of school age.
Assessment of Drug Therapy-Related Issues in an Outpatient Heart Failure Population and the Potential Impact of Pharmacist-Driven Intervention
Authors: Dempsey Jillian T. , Matta Lina S. , Carter Danielle M. , Stevens Craig A. , Stevenson Lynne W. , Desai Akshay S. , Cheng Judy W.
Published: April 2016

Background:

The Ambulatory Cardiac Triage, Intervention, and Education (ACTIVE) infusion unit is an outpatient center that aims to provide heart failure (HF) patients with comprehensive multidisciplinary interventions.

Objective:

To describe the patient population served in ACTIVE and to document the prevalence of comorbidities and drug therapy-related issues (DRIs) in order to define the most effective role of a pharmacist in the unit.

Methods:

Patients who have been interviewed by a pharmacist in ACTIVE were included. Comprehensive medical and medication profile reviews were performed. Patient comorbidities were documented, and DRIs were classified.

Results:

Sixty patients were included. Most prevalent cardiac comorbidities included hypertension (73%) and hyperlipidemia (62%). Top 3 noncardiac comorbidities included chronic kidney disease (60%), diabetes (50%), and obesity (35%). The prevalence of DRI was reported as follows: (1) needs additional/alternative therapy (untreated indication [37] or suboptimal therapeutic choice [46]), (2) wrong drug (major drug–drug interaction [90], contraindication [11], or duplicate therapy [1]), (3) suboptimal dosing (17), (4) dose exceeds recommended maximum (9), and (5) adverse drug reaction (93). In 63 (22%) of the DRIs, a pharmacist made recommendations to modify the regimen.

Conclusion:

The prevalence of DRI is high even among HF patients managed in a subspecialty cardiovascular practice. Pharmacists in this setting play a vital role in more effectively resolving DRI.
An image–temperature model of a microprobe used in wafer testing constructed by particle swarm optimization algorithm
Authors: Chiang Yuan-Ching , Chiu Jinn-Tong , Chang Zhi-Jie , Chang Dar-Yuan
Published: April 2016

The temperature of a minute object is typically measured by an infrared thermograph, a precise and expensive device. This study presents an image–temperature model constructed by particle swarm optimization algorithm to estimate the temperature according to the color image data on object’s surface. The demonstrated case was a palladium alloy microprobe used in wafer testing. Two series of conduction experiments were implemented to imitate the probing condition of the microprobe in wafer testing. Collecting the images captured from a digital video camera and the temperatures measured by the infrared thermograph, the correlations between the color image data and their corresponding temperatures were investigated. An image–temperature model is further constructed by the particle swarm optimization algorithm based on the image components of the RGB and HSV models of the examined pixel. The model developed provides valuable references for making out the electrothermal effect of the palladium alloy microprobe used in wafer testing.
Accuracy design of high precision machine tools using error sensitivity analysis methodology
Authors: Tian Wenjie , Liu Shaopeng , Liu Xingxing
Published: April 2016

Geometric accuracy is a crucially important performance factor for machine tools. Theoretically, the effects of source errors on pose accuracy (positional and angular accuracy) of 3-, 4- or 5-axis machine tools cannot fully be compensated by software, and only those pose errors associated with the permission motions are compensatable by means of error compensation. Therefore, the uncompensatable pose errors should be strictly guaranteed in the processes of design and manufacture. In this paper, after the geometric error model is established, the source errors affecting the uncompensatable pose accuracy are identified out of all the source errors. In order to enhance the understanding of which source errors have more influences on the pose accuracy, a probabilistic sensitivity analysis method is proposed, and the global sensitivity index is defined to evaluate the influence in the overall workspace. According to the sensitivity analysis results, the uncompensatable pose accuracy index is allocated to each source error. And then, assembly accuracy acceptance criteria are proposed as a guideline for machine assemblers. As an application example, the presented approaches are applied to the accuracy design and manufacture of a 4-axis machine tool, and double ball bar measurement and machining test are carried out to check the accuracy of the designed machine tool.
On the relation between the external structure and the internal characteristics in the near-nozzle field of diesel sprays
Authors: Benajes Jesus , Salvador Francisco Javier , Carreres Marcos , Jaramillo David
Published: April 2016

In this paper, a high-resolution visualization technique was used in combination with an extensively validated zero-dimensional model in order to relate the external structure of a diesel spray to the internal properties in the vicinity of the nozzle. For this purpose, three single-hole convergent nozzles with different diameters were tested for several pressure conditions. The analysis of the obtained images shows that the spray width significantly changes along the first few millimetres of the spray. From the high-resolution images obtained, two parameters were evaluated. The first is the external non-perturbed length, where droplet detachment was not observed. The second is a transitional length, which is defined as the axial position where the spray width increases linearly after transient behaviour, making it possible to establish a spray cone angle definition. Furthermore, the internal liquid core length was estimated for these nozzles using an extensively validated zero-dimensional model. The liquid core length proved to be correlated with both the transitional length and the non-perturbed length with a very high degree of reliability. In the case of the transitional length, a quadratic correlation was observed, whereas a linear relationship was confirmed between the liquid core length and the non-perturbed length. The results presented here may help to shed light on better understanding of such a complex process as atomization.
Optimal stationary control of diesel engines using periodic control
Authors: Sivertsson Martin , Eriksson Lars
Published: April 2016

Measurements and optimal control are used to study whether the fuel economy of a diesel engine can be improved through periodic control of the wastegate, illustrating how modern optimal control tools can be used to identify non-trivial solutions that can improve performance. The measurements show that the pumping torque of the engine is changed when the wastegate is controlled in a periodic manner versus stationary even if the mean position is the same. If this decreases the fuel consumption or not is seen to be frequency and operating point dependent. The measurements indicate that the phenomenon occurs in the time scales capturable by mean value engine models (MVEM). The operating points are further analyzed using a MVEM and optimal control. It is shown that whether the optimal solution exhibits periodic oscillations or not is operating point dependent, but is not due to the instantaneous nature of the controls. Even if an actuator model is added the oscillations persist for reasonable time constants, the frequency of the oscillations is however affected. Further it is shown that the periodic control can be predicted by optimal periodic control theory and that the frequency of the control affects the resulting efficiency.
Detection of inappropriate working conditions for the timing belt in internal-combustion engines using vibration signals and data mining
Authors: Khazaee Meghdad , Banakar Ahmad , Ghobadian Barat , Agha Mirsalim Mostafa , Minaei Saeid , Jafari Seyed Mohammad
Published: April 2016

Abnormal operating conditions for the timing belt can lead to cracks, fatigue, sudden rupture and damage to engines. In this study, an intelligent system was developed to detect and classify high-load operating conditions and high-temperature operating conditions for timing belts. To achieve this, vibration signals in normal operating conditions, high-load operating conditions and high-temperature operating conditions were collected. Time-domain signals were transformed to the frequency domain and the time–frequency domain using the fast Fourier transform method and the wavelet transform method respectively. In the data-mining stage, 25 statistical features were extracted from different signal domains. The improved distance evaluation method was adopted to select the best features and to reduce the input space for the classifier. Then, the signal features from the time domain, the frequency domain and the time-frequency domain were fed into an artificial neural network to evaluate the accuracy of this designed procedure for detecting inappropriate operating conditions for the timing belt. Based on all these features extracted from the signals in the time, frequency and time–frequency domains, the artificial neural network classifier detected and classified normal operating conditions, high-load operating conditions and high-temperature operating conditions with accuracies of 73.3%, 85% and 89.2% respectively. The classification accuracies using features selected by improved distance evaluation in the signals from the time, frequency and time–frequency domains were found to be 85%, 95.8% and 95% respectively. The results showed that the developed system was capable of detecting and classifying both the normal operating conditions and abnormal operating conditions for the timing belt. The results also suggested that a combination of signal processing and feature selection can significantly enhance the classification accuracy.
Closure modeling in reduced-order model of Burgers’ equation for control applications
Authors: Imtiaz Haroon , Akhtar Imran
Published: April 2016

A proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) technique has been successfully employed to develop reduced-order models for flow control purposes. For complex flows, higher POD modes also play a significant role in the stability and accuracy of the reduced-order model, thus require a closure, as in turbulent flows. In the presence of nonhomogeneous boundary conditions, developing a closure model becomes a challenging task. This paper discusses nonlinear closure modeling approaches for homogeneous and nonhomogeneous boundary conditions. Burgers’ equations, both one-dimensional and two-dimensional, are considered as the governing equations to develop reduced-order models with different boundary conditions. Homogeneous and nonhomogeneous boundary conditions are considered to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed closure modeling technique in boundary control applications. Numerical results show that the proposed closure model improves the accuracy of the reduced-order model.
Numerical simulation of raindrops distribution on canopy surface of hemispherical parachute in heavy rain via two-phase flow approach
Authors: Yue Jian , Gao Puyun , Zhang Mingliang , Cheng Wenke
Published: April 2016

The descent of parachute and re-entry capsule in heavy rain has been rarely researched yet. Study of raindrops distribution on canopy surface in heavy rain environment is a key step in the whole research. In this paper, the discrete phase model of two-phase flow approach is applied to simulate the raindrop trajectories in order to research the problem of raindrops distribution on canopy surface when parachute and re-entry capsule are descending in heavy rain. Numerous cases based on different rainfall rates and vertically descending velocities of a simple hemispherical parachute and re-entry capsule are numerically calculated preliminarily. The simulation results are presented, and it is found that the raindrops trapped by the canopy surface are not even-distributed, and raindrops are concentrated near the bottom edges of canopy surface as a result of high-pressure zone enclosed by the parachute; there is a corresponding critical value of descending velocity of parachute and re-entry capsule which determines whether the raindrops will be trapped by the canopy surface for one particular rainfall rate; only above the critical value of descending velocity of parachute and re-entry capsule the raindrops can be trapped by the canopy surface. The conclusions will be of great significance to the further research of the problem of descent of parachute and re-entry capsule in heavy rain.
Creating French-style pension funds: Business, labour and the battle over patient capital
Authors: Naczyk Marek
Published: April 2016

European governments are increasingly retreating from public pension provision and promoting the expansion of private pension funds. Analysts of comparative social policy have traditionally considered that the politics of pension privatisation is driven by politicians’ and socioeconomic actors’ concerns about the generosity and costs of pension arrangements. But, when they are fully funded instead of being financed on a pay-as-you-go basis, pensions generate funds that are injected into the financial system. The existence of such a welfare–finance nexus means that stakeholders in the pension system are also attentive to how pension funds invest their assets, and may try to actively shape the institutional design of pensions in accordance with such financial concerns. This article focuses on the role of organised labour and business, that is, employers and the financial industry, in pension privatisation and develops theoretical expectations on how these actors’ interest in maximising control over private pension funds’ financial assets affects pension politics. The argument is tested with a case study of French pension privatisation between the 1980s and the 2000s.
Achieving biocompatible stiffness in NiTi through additive manufacturing
Authors: Taheri Andani Mohsen , Haberland Christoph , Walker Jason M , Karamooz Mohammadreza , Sadi Turabi Ali , Saedi Soheil , Rahmanian Rasool , Karaca Haluk , Dean David , Kadkhodaei Mahmoud , Elahinia Mohammad
Published: April 2016

This article seeks to reduce the stiffness of NiTi parts from a nonporous state to that of human bone by introducing porosity. Compact bone stiffness is between 12 and 20 GPa while the currently used bone implant materials are several times stiffer. While very stiff implants and/or fixation hardware can temporarily immobilize healing bone, it also causes stress shielding of the surrounding bone and commonly results in stress concentrations at the implant or immobilization hardware’s fixation site(s). Together these processes can lead to implant or fixation hardware and/or the surrounding bone’s failure. Porous NiTi can be used to reduce the stiffness of metallic implants while also providing necessary stabilization or immobilization of the patient’s reconstructed anatomy. In this work, mechanical behavior of porous NiTi with different levels of porosity is simulated to show the relation between the stiffness and porosity level. Then porous structures are fabricated through additive manufacturing to validate the simulation results. The results indicate that stiffness can be reduced from the bulk value of 69 GPa to as low as 20.5 GPa for 58% porosity. The simulation shows that it is possible to achieve a wide range of desired stiffness by adjusting the level of porosity.
Structural and aerodynamic analyses of a hybrid trailing edge control surface of a fully morphing wing
Authors: Gürses Ercan , Tunçöz İlhan Ozan , Yang Yosheph , Arslan Pınar , Kalkan Uğur , Tıraş Harun , Şahin Melin , Özgen Serkan , Yaman Yavuz
Published: April 2016

In this article, the design and analysis of a hybrid trailing edge control surface of an unmanned aerial vehicle are presented. The structural design was performed to increase and decrease the camber of the control surface to match selected airfoil profiles. The design was first analyzed with the help of finite element method to assess the morphing capability. The morphed control surface was then analyzed aerodynamically and comparisons with the original target profiles were made. According to the aerodynamic analyses, it was concluded that the control surface can successfully morph into target profiles with very minor changes in the target aerodynamic values while still ensuring the structural integrity and the safety of the control surface.
Throwing motion with instantaneous force using a variable viscoelastic joint manipulator
Authors: Tomori Hiroki , Majima Tatsuo , Ishihara Hikaru , Nakamura Taro
Published: April 2016

This article focuses on developing a pneumatic artificial muscle as a variable elastic device and a magnetorheological fluid brake as a variable viscosity device and a variable friction device. We executed a throwing motion using a 2-degree-of-freedom manipulator as a case study of the control of dynamic motion. To investigate the throwing motion, we proposed the spring model of the manipulator, which includes a variable viscoelastic joint. Next, the manipulator and the spring model were extended to 2 degrees of freedom. In addition, the spring model was verified by comparing the simulation and experimental results. The simulation results reproduced the experimental results. Furthermore, we maximized the velocity of the end effector during the throwing motion by searching for adequate drive timing of the second joint in the simulation. In the simulation, hand speed was improved by releasing the second joint on the basis of the angular acceleration of the first joint. Finally, the simulation results were reproduced experimentally under the same conditions.
Research on stability and nonlinear vibration of shape memory alloy hybrid laminated composite panel under aerodynamic and thermal loads
Authors: Zhang Zhenhua , Sheng Piao
Published: April 2016

The stability and nonlinear vibration of a NiTi shape memory alloy hybrid laminated composite panel under aerodynamic and thermal loads are investigated. The partial differential dynamic equations of the shape memory alloy hybrid laminated composite panel are derived based on the large deformation theory, the first-order piston theory of aerodynamic pressure and a simple constitutive model of shape memory alloy. Then, the general expressions of multimode discrete equations of the shape memory alloy hybrid laminated composite panel are obtained for the first time using Galerkin method. The stability of the shape memory alloy hybrid laminated composite panel is analyzed first based on the Routh–Hurwitz criteria, and the results show that the temperature and aerodynamic pressure parameter plane can be divided into a flat and stable region, a flutter region, and a buckling region, and the flat and stable region can be greatly enlarged as the shape memory alloy volume fraction increases. Meanwhile, numerical results of the dynamic equations show that the shape memory alloy hybrid laminated composite panel can produce various dynamic motions, and the bifurcation characteristics of the responses with temperature obtained by numerical method coincide well with the stability boundaries determined by analytical method.
Promoting Well-Being
Authors: Thompson Neil , Livingston Wulf
Published: April 2016

The topic of well-being is one that is receiving increasing attention in a number of academic fields and professional disciplines. It is a concept that can be used as a unifying theme to link together a number of important concepts that have significant implications for professional education and practice across the human services. This article explores different aspects of well-being, differentiates well-being from the now-stigmatized term of welfare, and argues that professional education has much to be gained from adopting a well-being approach. It presents well-being as an important basis for addressing issues relating to illness, crisis, and loss.
Is CPTED Useful to Guide the Inventory of Safety in Parks? A Study Case in Stockholm, Sweden
Authors: Iqbal Asifa , Ceccato Vania
Published: April 2016

Crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED) has long been suggested as a guideline for improving safety in neighborhoods. Yet, little is known about the application of CPTED to urban parks. The aim of this study is to evaluate the adequacy of CPTED principles in guiding the inventory of safety conditions of an urban park. The study begins with a review of the development of CPTED ideas and then focuses on the inspection of a park with a relatively high level of crime in the city of Stockholm, the capital of Sweden. Site observations, parks inspection, crime mapping of police-recorded data, and interviews with selected users and municipal stakeholders underpin the methodology used in this study. Findings indicate that design and management of the park affect the park’s safety conditions—attributes that are easily identifiable when using CPTED as guidance. The article concludes with several general lessons from using CPTED principles to inventory safety in parks.
Enhancement of equipment information sharing using three-dimensional computer-aided design simplification and digital catalog techniques in the plant industry
Authors: Kwon Soonjo , Kim Byung Chul , Hwang Hojin , Mun Duhwan , Han Soonhung
Published: April 2016

Process plants are designed and constructed by engineering, procurement, and construction companies, which order various types of equipment to be installed in them. Equipment manufacturers design and produce the ordered equipment, and deliver it to the customer. Therefore, equipment information sharing between them is an important issue for engineering collaboration in a plant project. However, they use different three-dimensional computer-aided design systems for different purposes. For this reason, additional three-dimensional computer-aided design and data merging techniques are required for equipment information sharing. This article presents a new approach to share equipment information using three-dimensional computer-aided design simplification and digital catalog techniques. In this approach, the equipment’s three-dimensional computer-aided design data generated by a manufacturer are first simplified and then converted into neutral three-dimensional computer-aided design. The converted three-dimensional computer-aided design data are merged with port and specification data into a digital catalog. Equipment information in the form of this digital catalog is finally delivered to the engineering, procurement, and construction companies.
Citizen Science
Authors: Ruiz-Mallén Isabel , Riboli-Sasco Livio , Ribrault Claire , Heras Maria , Laguna Daniel , Perié Leïla
Published: April 2016

Citizen science can raise people’s understanding of science while helping scientists conduct their research. Yet its potential for driving transformative learning is empirically underexplored. We present the results of a preliminary study with secondary school students engaged in a long-term citizen science project, from the formulation of the research questions to data analysis and discussion. Students learnt about and increased their interest in neuroscience. They were also able to reflect on the role of science for society and valued their involvement as active participants in the research. We discuss the opportunities and challenges of approaching citizen science for transformative learning.
Design of adaptive fuzzy backstepping sliding mode control for MIMO uncertain discrete-time nonlinear systems based on noisy measurements
Authors: Yoshimura Toshio
Published: April 2016

This paper presents an adaptive fuzzy backstepping sliding mode control for multi-input and multi-output uncertain nonlinear systems in semi-strict feedback form. The systems are described by a discrete-time state equation with uncertainties viewed as the modeling errors and the unknown external disturbances, and the observation of the states is taken with independent measurement noises. Combining the adaptive fuzzy backstepping control with the sliding mode control approach for the comprehensive improvement in the stability and the robustness, the adaptive fuzzy backstepping sliding mode control is approximately designed where the design parameters are selected using an appropriate Lyapunov function. The uncertainities are approximated as fuzzy logic systems using the fuzzy inference approach based on the extended single input rule modules to reduce the number of the fuzzy IF-THEN rules. The estimates for the un-measurable states and the adjustable parameters are taken by the proposed simplified weighted least squares estimator. It is proved that the trajectory of the tracking error and the sliding surface is uniformly ultimately bounded. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is indicated through the simulation experiment of a simple numerical system.
Multi-axis vibration testing of an aerodynamically excited structure
Authors: Roberts C , Ewins D
Published: April 2016

Missile vibration testing has undergone significant advances in the past decade. This has been the result of improvements in signal processing and test specification development, but more recently due to the implementation of Multi-Input Multi-Output (MIMO) testing. To date, much of the focus of MIMO testing has been on either a twin-shaker, single-axis configuration or multi-axis testing on a 3 or 6 Degree of Freedom (DOF) shaker system. There has been little attention to replication of the 3-dimensional operating deflection shapes that a missile system experiences during its carriage or operation.

This paper presents a systematic approach to 3-axis vibration testing, using current MIMO rectangular controller technology, and demonstrates through an experimental setup a near-3 fold improvement in matching the vibration response of the item under test over the more traditional single axis SISO and MIMO test methods.
Organizational Ambidexterity and the Elusive Quest for Successful Implementation of BoP Ventures
Authors: Reficco Ezequiel , Gutiérrez Roberto
Published: April 2016

Successful cases of base of the pyramid (BoP) ventures in large corporations remain hard to find. The BoP literature has identified external and (to a lesser extent) internal barriers to implementation. However, this literature has treated barriers as isolated and discrete elements, overlooking the fact that most often those are integrated as part of the organization’s business model. In fact, the challenge of implementing a BoP venture within the umbrella of a large corporation can be framed as a challenge to achieve organizational ambidexterity. We apply that frame to the study of a critical incident, a “most likely” case where 12 large corporations received every incentive to implement BoP ventures, yet only 3 survived. We looked at both failures and success cases, and extract lessons from them. Our findings go against the grain of some prescriptions of mainstream BoP literature and the practice of funding agencies. We finish with recommendations for policy.
The Five Star Movement
Authors: Passarelli Gianluca , Tuorto Dario
Published: April 2016

The success of the Italian party Five Star Movement (M5S) has been broadly attributed to its ability to occupy the space of radical protest against “old politics”. Due to the party’s criticism, its charismatic leadership, and its aggressive electoral campaigns, the M5S has been labeled as a populist. The unexpected result of 2013 election raises crucial theoretical questions: To what extent does the M5S electorate reflect the characteristics of a protest vote? To what extent was it also a vote driven by values, by individual evaluations on a specific political issue? The first part of the article aims to investigate the extent of negative political feelings among M5S’ voters. To disentangle the meaning and impact of protest, we distinguish two dimensions: the “system discontent” and the “élite discontent,” referring to both general and focalized images, sentiments toward and the representation of political institutions, voter power, and government performances. In the second part, we bring to the analysis a further explanation based on the theory of issue voting. The goal is to measure whether voters have chosen M5S purely because of their political resentment or also given that they shared a similar position on a number of crucial policies emphasized in the electoral campaign.
Improved technical performance of a multifunctional prehospital telemedicine system between the research phase and the routine use phase – an observational study
Authors: Felzen Marc , Brokmann Jörg C , Beckers Stefan K , Czaplik Michael , Hirsch Frederik , Tamm Miriam , Rossaint Rolf , Bergrath Sebastian
Published: April 2016

Introduction

Telemedical concepts in emergency medical services (EMS) lead to improved process times and patient outcomes, but their technical performance has thus far been insufficient; nevertheless, the concept was transferred into EMS routine care in Aachen, Germany. This study evaluated the system’s technical performance and compared it to a precursor system.

Methods

The telemedicine system was implemented on seven ambulances and a teleconsultation centre staffed with experienced EMS physicians was established in April 2014. Telemedical applications included mobile vital data, 12-lead, picture transmission and video streaming from inside the ambulances. The tele-EMS physician filled in a questionnaire regarding the technical performance of the applications, background noise and assessed clinical values of the transmitted pictures and videos after each mission between 15 May 2014–15 October 2014.

Results

Teleconsultation was established during 539 emergency cases. In 83% of the cases ( n = 447), only the paramedics and the tele-EMS physician were involved. Transmission success rates ranged from 98% (audio connection) to 93% (12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) transmission). All functionalities, except video transmission, were significantly better than the pilot project ( p < 0.05). Severe background noise was detected to a lesser extent ( p = 0.0004) and the clinical value of the pictures and videos were considered significantly more valuable.

Discussion

The multifunctional system is now sufficient for routine use and is the most reliable mobile emergency telemedicine system compared to other published projects. Dropouts were due to user errors and network coverage problems. These findings enable widespread use of this system in the future, reducing the critical time intervals until medical therapy is started.
Computer modeling of dynamic behavior of rocking wall structures including the impact-related effects
Authors: Qureshi Irshad M , Warnitchai Pennung
Published: April 2016

Precast post-tensioned concrete rocking wall system is an innovative damage avoidance structural system for seismic regions. Past experimental works on the dynamic performance of rocking walls have identified the presence of high-frequency acceleration spikes in both lateral and vertical directions during the impact of wall base with the foundation. These acceleration spikes, acting together, can cause shear slip at the wall–foundation connection. This study is focused on the development of a computer model that can predict these acceleration spikes along with the identification of their effects on the dynamic performance of rocking walls. For this purpose, impact phenomenon at the wall–foundation joint has been discussed in detail and some general guidelines are set for the two important parameters of impact or contact modeling named as contact stiffness and contact damping. The finite element numerical models, based on the proposed guidelines, are found to predict the overall dynamic behavior of rocking walls along with the acceleration spikes quite efficiently. The acceleration spikes are found to be dependent on the lateral velocity at impact and the initial contact stiffness. So a velocity-dependent energy dissipation device along with a soft contact is found to be suitable for reducing these effects.
Cyclic loading test of wall damping system with steel dampers
Authors: Ahn Hyung-Joon , Kim Young-Ju , Bae Jae-Hoon , Jung In-Yong
Published: April 2016

Steel dampers, as an energy dissipation device, have been widely used to provide good seismic performance for building structures in strong seismic zones. Steel dampers for building structures are required to have adequate plastic deformation capacities so that they would not reach failure during strong ground motions and the aftershocks. However, the hysteretic behaviors of steel dampers considering the aftershock effects still remain unclear. In this study, wall damping system with a steel damper is proposed and tested. Steel damper in the wall damping system is installed horizontally at the bottom slit of the reinforced concrete wall aiming to dissipate energy during earthquake and prevent damage of the building structures, which could not only provide good seismic performance but could also be easily repaired after an earthquake. Test was conducted cyclically to simulate the effects of aftershocks, which can cause additional damage to already weakened structures from a main shock. Based on the test results, the seismic behavior of damping system was discussed with emphasis on the dissipated energy.
Dynamic interaction between bridge pier and its large pile foundation considering earthquake and scour depths
Authors: Xu Yan , Shang Yu , Ye Aijun
Published: April 2016

Scour can be a potential risk to bridge’s safety during the service life. Generally, the scour can increase the unsupported pile length of bridge and change the dynamic characteristics of the substructure. Consequently, this can decrease the lateral load capacity of the bridge, especially to pile-supported bridges. In this article, the dynamic interaction between bridge pier and its foundation considering earthquake and scour depths was investigated based on a simplified 2-degree-of-freedom model. The results demonstrated that there is a significant resonance between the pier and the pile foundation due to the contribution of large pile cap mass. Additionally, the effect of scour depths is strongly related to the fundamental vibration periods of both the superstructure–pier system and the pile foundation itself. Moreover, an approximate most adverse equivalent pile length considering the scour depth was formulated and proposed to efficiently and easily capture the worst seismic responses of the bridge pier. The accuracy of the methodology proposed herein was verified by an existing three-span continuous girder bridge in China.
Using numerical procedures to quantify seismic reliability of wood shear walls and braced frames
Authors: Gu Jianzhong
Published: April 2016

This article discusses the use of numerical procedures to quantify the probabilistic seismic behaviour of panel-sheathed wood shear walls and diagonally braced frames made with three species including Japanese sugi, Canadian hemlock and European whitewood. Three probabilistic methods were implemented in the analysis, based on the assumption that ground motion records follow a uniform distribution of representing earthquake characteristics. The first method is the traditional one in seismic reliability analysis. The second method calculates the exceeding probability from conditional distributions at given ground motions. The third method is the Monte Carlo simulation method. Confidence curves from two different methods were also used to visualize the comparison among structural configurations and species. The results showed that panel-sheathed walls exhibit better performance than braced frames. The results also show that systems built with hemlock are better than other systems with whitewood or sugi.
Parametric analysis of viscoelastic hyperboloidal helical rod
Authors: Ermis M , Eratlı N , Argeso H , Kutlu A , Omurtag MH
Published: April 2016

The objective of this study is to perform a pioneering research about a viscoelastic hyperboloidal helical rod having a standard type of distortional behavior and a Kelvin type of bulk compressibility. Field equations are based on the Timoshenko beam theory, and the exact curvatures of the hyperboloidal geometry are considered through the formulation. The numerical analysis is carried out by the mixed finite element method, considering the rotary inertia, in the Laplace space, and the results are transformed back to time space numerically using the modified Durbin’s algorithm. A cantilevered hyperboloidal helical rod having solid circular, hollow circular, and thin-walled hollow circular cross sections is handled, and the rod is loaded by rectangular and triangular impulsive types of point load at the tip. Through the analysis, different values of retardation time, three different relaxation functions associated with shear modulus, and three different creep functions associated with bulk modulus are handled. Finally, a benchmark example is presented, and the influence of the loading and the material parameters on the helix geometry is discussed.