bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A unique mathematical model for maintenance strategies to improve energy flows of the electrical power sector
Authors: Azadeh Ali , Fekri Masoud , Asadzadeh SM , Barazandeh Babak , Barrios Barry
Published: January 2016

In this paper, an improved mathematical model that evaluates the economic efficiencies of the integrated energy system, comprising the fuel networks (coal and natural gas) and the electrical power system has been extended. According to this model, the economic efficiency of the electric energy system depends on many factors including electric generation, transmission subsystems and the ability to produce and transport a variety of primary energy sources. In this study, new constraints for maintenance of the electricity and natural gas subsystems have been considered in addition to the constraints of the previous model. Additionally, by using analysis of variance (ANOVA), the effect of climate conditions on different gas or electricity transmission regions (with the assumption of equal break-even point for failure probability) has been analyzed. Finally, conditions under which preventive maintenance should be applied have been discussed. Notice that the extended model is linear and has been solved with the GAMS 23.5.1 software.
Rare gases geochemical characteristics and gas source correlation for Dabei gas field in Kuche depression, Tarim Basin
Authors: Wang Xiaobo , Chen Jianfa , Li Zhisheng , Li Jian , Wang Dongliang , Wang Yifeng , Yang Chunxia , Cui Huiying
Published: January 2016

The total components and isotopes of rare gases as well as hydrocarbon gases for Dabei gas field are analyzed firstly, then their geochemical characteristics and genesis are discussed respectively, finally gas source correlation and their contributions are evaluated. The research results show that: (1) In Dabei gas field, methane is the main component, accompanying with a few N2 and CO2, as well as extremely low rare gases. In total component contents of rare gases, the He content is from 56.0 to 60.4 ppm with an average of 57.8 ppm and generally 1 order of magnitude higher than the air content value, while the Ne, Ar, Kr, and Xe contents are generally 1–3 orders of magnitude lower than the corresponding air content values. (2) The δ13C1 value in Dabei gas field usually ranges from −31.9‰ to −29.4‰. The δ13C2 value generally ranges from −24.2‰ to −19.4‰, which is obviously heavier than −28.5‰, The natural gases in Dabei gas field can be identified as typical coal-formed gas. (3) The 3He/4He value in natural gases is generally from (6.31–11.24) × 10−8 with an average value of 8.42 × 10−8. The 20Ne/22Ne value is from 9.563 to 9.734, and the 21Ne/22Ne value is from 0.0298 to 0.0307. The 40Ar/36Ar value is usually from 390 to 858 with an average value of 552, and the 38Ar/36Ar value is from 0.1955 to 0.2035. The 129Xe is relative loss, while the 132Xe is relative surplus. The comprehensive genesis identifications of He, Ne, Ar, and Xe indicate that rare gases are crustal derived genesis, mainly originating from the decay of related radioactive elements in crust. (4) The gas source correlation indicates that the natural gases in Dabei gas field are originated from humic coal series source rocks of Triassic-Jurassic, mainly contributed by Jurassic in vertical strata and coal rocks in type, coal rocks accounting for 63% and mudstones accounting for 37%.
An Evaluation of the Effects of a Mild Delayed Verbal Punisher on Choice of an Immediate Reinforcer by Children With Autism
Authors: Sy Jolene R. , Green Leonard , Gratz Olivia , Ervin Thea
Published: January 2016

Different combinations of immediate and delayed consequences differentially affect choice. Basic research has found that nonhuman animals are more likely to choose an alternative that produces an immediate reinforcer that is followed by a delayed punisher as the delay to punishment increases. The purpose of the current effort was to examine the choices of three individuals with autism when they were given the choice between receiving a larger amount of preferred food followed by a mild, delayed verbal punisher and a smaller amount of the preferred food. A secondary purpose was to determine whether signal presence and duration would affect the efficacy of the punisher (i.e., whether children would be more likely to select the smaller reward that was not followed by a delayed punisher). Results were idiosyncratic across children and highlight the need to evaluate choice under multiple arrangements.
The Time Intensity of Childcare Provided by Older Immigrant Women in the United States
Authors: Vega Alma
Published: January 2016

Older adults comprise an increasing share of new legal admits to the United States. While many are financially dependent on their families, a more complete picture requires taking into account the nonmonetary contributions of this population. Using the American Time Use Survey, this study examines whether older recent immigrant women provide more unpaid childcare than their native-born and more established immigrant counterparts. Results suggest that while older recent immigrant women are more likely to provide unpaid childcare, this effect is eliminated upon controlling for demographic characteristics. However, among those who do provide childcare, older recent immigrant women provide more hours of care even after controlling for demographic and household characteristics. This pattern holds up even after restricting the analysis to women living with young children. These results may signal reciprocal supportive networks. Working-age adults may financially support older recent immigrants, while older recent immigrants provide unremunerated childcare for working-age adults.
Violent Islamism beyond borders
Authors: Ishay Micheline
Published: January 2016

The argument that sectarian conflicts in the Arab Middle East have been persistent since time immemorial is erroneous. While these views may seem compelling with the rise of ISIL, they are in fact very dangerous: they downgrade Islamic societies to primordial, selective and static features. I will argue for a different set of propositions. First, violence is not unique to Islamic societies. Extreme illiberal ideologies prevailed in Christian Europe both during the Thirty Years War and during the fascist interwar period. Second, Islamist belligerence was partly a response to the ill-effects of globalization, just as European fascist movements were exacerbated by the advance of industrial capitalism in Europe. Third, post-Second World War human rights efforts may inform new paths beyond the tragedies that continue to plague the Middle East.
The Kurdish struggle and the crisis of the Turkishness Contract
Authors: Ünlü Barış
Published: January 2016

In this article, inspired by Whiteness Studies, I propose two concepts that allow us to see the question of ethnicity as well as the history of the Turkish Republic through the lens of privilege: Turkishness and the Turkishness Contract. By Turkishness, I mean a patterned but mostly unrecognized relationship between Turkish individuals’ ethnic position and their ways of seeing, hearing, feeling and knowing – as well as not seeing, not hearing, not feeling and not knowing. These ways and states of Turkishness have been shaped by a set of written/unwritten and spoken/unspoken agreements (the Turkishness Contract) among the Muslims of Anatolia. However, during the last 40 years, the Kurdish movement, by creating a military and civilian resistance with mass support, has challenged the fundamentals of the contract and therefore caused a dramatic crisis of identity and selfhood for Turkishness.
Perioperative outcomes of video- and robot-assisted segmentectomies
Authors: Rinieri Philippe , Peillon Christophe , Salaün Mathieu , Mahieu Julien , Bubenheim Michael , Baste Jean-Marc
Published: January 2016

Objective

Video-assisted thoracic surgery appears to be technically difficult for segmentectomy. Conversely, robotic surgery could facilitate the performance of segmentectomy. The aim of this study was to compare the early results of video- and robot-assisted segmentectomies.

Methods

Data were collected prospectively on videothoracoscopy from 2010 and on robotic procedures from 2013. Fifty-one patients who were candidates for minimally invasive segmentectomy were included in the study. Perioperative outcomes of video-assisted and robotic segmentectomies were compared.

Results

The minimally invasive segmentectomies included 32 video- and 16 robot-assisted procedures; 3 segmentectomies (2 video-assisted and 1 robot-assisted) were converted to lobectomies. Four conversions to thoracotomy were necessary for anatomical reason or arterial injury, with no uncontrolled bleeding in the robotic arm. There were 7 benign or infectious lesions, 9 pre-invasive lesions, 25 lung cancers, and 10 metastatic diseases. Patient characteristics, type of segment, conversion to thoracotomy, conversion to lobectomy, operative time, postoperative complications, chest tube duration, postoperative stay, and histology were similar in the video and robot groups. Estimated blood loss was significantly higher in the video group (100 vs. 50 mL, p = 0.028).

Conclusions

The morbidity rate of minimally invasive segmentectomy was low. The short-term results of video-assisted and robot-assisted segmentectomies were similar, and more data are required to show any advantages between the two techniques. Long-term oncologic outcomes are necessary to evaluate these new surgical practices.
What triggers innovation diffusion? Intermediary organizations and geography in cultural and science-based industries
Authors: Rekers Josephine V
Published: January 2016

This paper argues that innovation diffusion is not a rational implementation process, but more accurately portrayed as a highly social process, involving sets of intermediate organizations that contribute to a product’s reputation. Empirically it builds on two case studies, one cultural and one science-based, to demonstrate there are industry differences in where innovations get validated: validating intermediaries are centralized in few global nodes in the case of theatre, and decentralized in each marketplace in the case of pharmaceutical vaccines. This pattern is counterintuitive, because it is different from what we would expect based on the spatial organization of their production activities. These findings have implications for policy: can we assume innovations will readily diffuse (and export) outside their region of origin?
Analysis of neuron–astrocyte metabolic cooperation in the brain of db/db mice with cognitive decline using 13C NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Zheng Hong , Zheng Yongquan , Wang Dan , Cai Aimin , Lin Qiuting , Zhao Liangcai , Chen Minjiang , Deng Mingjie , Ye Xinjian , Gao Hongchang
Published: January 2016

Type 2 diabetes has been linked to cognitive impairment, but its potential metabolic mechanism is still unclear. The present study aimed to explore neuron–astrocyte metabolic cooperation in the brain of diabetic ( db/db, BKS.Cg-m+/+ Leprdb/J) mice with cognitive decline using 13C NMR technique in combination with intravenous [2-13C]-acetate and [3-13C]-lactate infusions. We found that the 13C-enrichment from [2-13C]-acetate into tricarboxylic acid cycle intermediate, succinate, was significantly decreased in db/db mice with cognitive decline compared with wild-type (WT, C57BLKS/J) mice, while an opposite result was obtained after [3-13C]-lactate infusion. Relative to WT mice, db/db mice with cognitive decline had significantly lower 13C labeling percentages in neurotransmitters including glutamine, glutamate, and γ-aminobutyric acid after [2-13C]-acetate infusion. However, [3-13C]-lactate resulted in increased 13C-enrichments in neurotransmitters in db/db mice with cognitive decline. This may indicate that the disturbance of neurotransmitter metabolism occurred during the development of cognitive decline. In addition, a reduction in 13C-labeling of lactate and an increase in gluconeogenesis were found from both labeled infusions in db/db mice with cognitive decline. Therefore, our results suggest that the development of cognitive decline in type 2 diabetes may be implicated to an unbalanced metabolism in neuron–astrocyte cooperation and an enhancement of gluconeogenesis.
Deleting IGF-1 receptor from forebrain neurons confers neuroprotection during stroke and upregulates endocrine somatotropin
Authors: De Magalhaes Filho C Daniel , Kappeler Laurent , Dupont Joëlle , Solinc Julien , Villapol Sonia , Denis Cécile , Nosten-Bertrand Marika , Billard Jean-Marie , Blaise Annick , Tronche François , Giros Bruno , Charriaut-Marlangue Christiane , Aïd Saba , Le Bouc Yves , Holzenberger Martin
Published: January 2016

Insulin-like growth factors control numerous processes, namely somatic growth, metabolism and stress resistance, connecting this pathway to aging and age-related diseases. Insulin-like growth factor signaling also impacts on neurogenesis, neuronal survival and structural plasticity. Recent reports demonstrated that diminished insulin-like growth factor signaling confers increased stress resistance in brain and other tissues. To better understand the role of neuronal insulin-like growth factor signaling in neuroprotection, we inactivated insulin-like growth factor type-1-receptor in forebrain neurons using conditional Cre-LoxP-mediated gene targeting. We found that brain structure and function, including memory performance, were preserved in insulin-like growth factor receptor mutants, and that certain characteristics improved, notably synaptic transmission in hippocampal neurons. To reveal stress-related roles of insulin-like growth factor signaling, we challenged the brain using a stroke-like insult. Importantly, when charged with hypoxia-ischemia, mutant brains were broadly protected from cell damage, neuroinflammation and cerebral edema. We also found that in mice with insulin-like growth factor receptor knockout specifically in forebrain neurons, a substantial systemic upregulation of growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor-I occurred, which was associated with significant somatic overgrowth. Collectively, we found strong evidence that blocking neuronal insulin-like growth factor signaling increases peripheral somatotropic tone and simultaneously protects the brain against hypoxic–ischemic injury, findings that may contribute to developing new therapeutic concepts preventing the disabling consequences of stroke.
Biogeomorphology and contingent ecosystem engineering in karst landscapes
Authors: Phillips Jonathan D.
Published: January 2016

While karst is not biogenic in the same sense as, say, coral reefs or peat bogs, and carbonate dissolution can occur abiotically, formation of karst landscapes would not occur in the absence of the biosphere. Seven levels of biogeomorphic biotic-abiotic interactions are identified, from indirect impacts to landforms as extended phenotypes. Karst is generally near the biogenic end of that spectrum, featuring reciprocal interactions and mutual adjustments between biota and landforms and interrelated geomorphological and ecological processes. Karst biogeomorphology may also involve niche construction. In many cases biogeomorphic ecosystem engineering in karst is contingent, in the sense that the engineer organisms may have no, or different, biogeomorphic impacts in non-karst environments. Several examples of contingent ecosystem engineering in karst are given, including biogeomorphic effects of chinkapin oak. Abiotic geomorphic features exist on Earth, but consideration of landform types lying between the biotic-abiotic extremes would likely yield broadly similar conclusions to those about karst. However, it is also clear that we know very little about niche construction and coevolution in karst biogeomorphology, and whether karst or any specific karst features can be considered an extended (composite) phenotype is still an open question. Thus far, most work on biogeomorphology and ecosystem engineering has focused on what might be called obligate engineers—organisms whose engineering effects are at least inevitable, if not necessary to their survival. However, in some cases contingent ecosystem engineers have substantial geomorphic impacts.
Psychometrics and Assessment of an Empathy Distance Gradient
Authors: Hollar David W.
Published: January 2016

Research has indicated declining empathy within specific professions and social structures. Few psychometric instruments have addressed empathy within the context of psychological distance/relatedness to other individuals and even to other species, relationships that can be important contributors to psychological well-being and health. We developed and tested the Empathy Gradient Questionnaire (EGQ), which contains five subscales (i.e., Family, Friend, Peer, Distant Other, and Species Empathy) representing increasing psycho-spatial distances. We used LISREL to factor validate the five-factor structure of the EGQ, and we evaluated levels of empathy among a sample of n = 161 individuals, aged 18 to 60+. The EGQ was shown to have high subscale (0.80-0.89) and overall internal consistencies (0.94). The factor pattern and structural equation models showed five latent factors explaining 69.8% of variance for all variables (goodness-of-fit index [GFI] = 0.98, adjusted goodness-of-fit index [AGFI] = 0.98, standardized root mean square residual [SRMR] = 0.06, comparative fit index [CFI] = 0.92). There were no significant effects for age, gender, or race on overall empathy or for each of the five subscales. A decreasing gradient was noted for Friend to Species Empathies.
Are Competencies Universal or Situational? A State-Level Investigation of Collaborative Competencies
Authors: Getha-Taylor Heather , Blackmar Jeannette , Borry Erin L.
Published: January 2016

Pioneering work on competencies provided evidence that traits, motives, and self-concepts predict success in a particular job context. Research furthered this line of investigation by identifying competencies that apply across jobs. Together, these competency studies introduced a question that endures today: “Are competencies situational or universal?” This research examines this question in the context of collaborative competencies. Given the contemporary emphasis on working effectively across boundaries, this state-level investigation identifies differentiating competencies and behavioral indicators that both support and expand existing federal-level research findings on collaborative competencies. This study’s answer to the enduring question is yes: There are universal collaborative competency dimensions and context matters in terms of application and interpretation.
Experiences of Discrimination, Harassment, and Violence in a Sample of Italian Transsexuals Who Have Undergone Sex-Reassignment Surgery
Authors: Prunas Antonio , Bandini Elisa , Fisher Alessandra D. , Maggi Mario , Pace Valeria , Quagliarella Luca , Todarello Orlando , Bini Maurizio
Published: January 2016

The present study aims to provide an overview of experiences of discrimination, harassment, and violence in a sample of Italian transsexuals who have undergone sex-reassignment surgery (SRS). Lack of support for gender transition from family members was also assessed, before and after SRS. Data were collected in the context of a multicentric study (Milan, Florence, and Bari) on SRS outcome. Patients who underwent SRS were contacted and asked to fill out a questionnaire concerning experiences of discrimination, harassment, violence, and crime they might have experienced in previous years. Seventy-two participants took part in the research: 46 were male-to-female (MtF; 64%) and 26 were female-to-male (FtM; 36%). Thirty-six percent of the total sample (with no differences between MtF and FtM) experienced at least one episode of harassment, violence, or discrimination. The workplace was reported to be the social area with the highest risk of discrimination and harassment (22% of participants). Reports of more than one incident of discrimination, harassment, and violence characterized the majority of participants in the MtF sample. Compared with previous studies carried out in other countries, a much larger proportion of participants could count on a supportive family environment before and after transition. Our results show that Italian society at large is prejudiced against transsexuals, but at a more “micro” level, having a trans person as a family member might result in a protective and tolerant attitude.
Are Inmates With Military Backgrounds “Army Strong?”
Authors: Logan Matthew William , Pare Paul-Philippe
Published: January 2016

We use data from the Survey of Inmates in State and Federal Correctional Facilities 2004 to examine the relationship between prior military service and misbehavior for a nationally representative sample of incarcerated inmates. Our regression analyses, based on 18,185 respondents across 326 prisons, suggest that inmates with military backgrounds tend to fare better than others across 12 negative prison outcomes. In contrast, we do not find much support for the argument—implied by violentization and other theories—that inmates with military backgrounds fare worse than others, with the exception of high levels of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and violent victimization. Supplementary analyses also show conditional patterns based on exposure to combat as well as honorable versus dishonorable discharge.
Street Medicine—Assessment Work Strategies of Paramedics on the Front Lines of Emergency Health Services
Authors: Corman Michael K.
Published: January 2016

This article is based on an institutional ethnographic inquiry into the work of paramedics and the institutional setting that organizes and coordinates their work processes in a major City in Canada. Drawing on more than two hundred hours of observations and more than one hundred interviews with paramedics (average length of 18 minutes) and other emergency medical personnel, this article explores the standard and not so standard work of paramedics as they assess and care for their patients on the front lines of emergency health services. The multiplicity of interfacing social, demographic, locational, and situational factors that shape and organize the work of paramedics are analyzed. In doing so, this article provides insights into the complex work of an understudied yet ever-important profession in health care.
Does the “Glass Escalator” Compensate for the Devaluation of Care Work Occupations?
Authors: Dill Janette S. , Price-Glynn Kim , Rakovski Carter
Published: January 2016

Feminized care work occupations have traditionally paid lower wages compared to non–care work occupations when controlling for human capital. However, when men enter feminized occupations, they often experience a “glass escalator,” leading to higher wages and career mobility as compared to their female counterparts. In this study, we examine whether men experience a “wage penalty” for performing care work in today’s economy, or whether the glass escalator helps to mitigate the devaluation of care work occupations. Using data from the Survey of Income and Program Participation for the years 1996-2011, we examine the career patterns of low- and middle-skill men in health care occupations. We found that men in occupations that provide the most hands-on direct care did experience lower earnings compared to men in other occupations after controlling for demographic characteristics. However, men in more technical allied health occupations did not have significantly lower earnings, suggesting that these occupations may be part of the glass escalator for men in the health care sector. Minority men were significantly more likely than white men to be in direct care occupations, but not in frontline allied health occupations. Male direct care workers were less likely to transition to unemployment compared to men in other occupations.
The application of learning organization to enhance learning in Singapore schools
Authors: Retna Kala S , Ng Pak Tee
Published: January 2016

The rise of interest in the learning organization (LO) concept attests to the value of learning by individuals and organizations for continuous improvement and adaptability to the ever-changing environment. Although the LO concept originated from business contexts, it was subsequently extended to educational organizations, particularly to schools. This paper presents research on the way LO is practised by a school in Singapore that subscribes to the LO philosophy. Using Ortenblad’s four integrated LO aspects (organizational learning, learning at work, learning climate and learning structure) as a framework of analysis, the research shows that the school practises the four aspects in a way that is unique to its school context, but that wider cultural factors have to be taken into account when interpreting LO in an Asian school context.
Should We be Worried About QTc Prolongation Using Citalopram? A Review
Authors: Hutton Lauren M. J. , Cave Andrew J. , St-Jean Renée , Banh Hoan Linh
Published: January 2016

Purpose:

Summarize available information regarding clinical impact of citalopram on the QTc interval.

Methods:

A literature search was conducted in Pubmed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases using the MeSH term “long QT syndrome” and key word “citalopram” on July 11, 2014.

Results:

Thirty-one studies were evaluated with 4 included in this review. Studies were excluded if they reported acute overdoses of citalopram or did not report on patient-specific risk factors for long QT syndrome (eg, hypokalemia, bradycardia, and increased age). The majority of the available data is derived from case reports. A number of confounders complicate the determination of a causal link between QTc prolongation and citalopram. Of the 4 studies included for review, none identified significant QTc prolongation in patients taking citalopram 20 to 60 mg daily without the patients having one or more patient-specific risk factors for prolonged QTc.

Conclusion:

There is insufficient evidence to establish a causal link between citalopram 20 to 60 mg orally daily and increased risk of TdP. Further research is required to determine the clinical impact and association between citalopram 20 to 60 mg daily and QTc prolongation.
Retrospective Analysis of the Medication Utilization and Clinical Outcomes of Patients Treated with Various Regimens for Hepatitis C Infection
Authors: Trombatt William D. , Koerner Pamela H. , Craft Zoie N. , Miller Richard T. , Kamal Khalid M.
Published: January 2016

Background:

The hepatitis C virus (HCV) is the most common chronic blood-borne infection and the leading cause of liver transplantation in the United States. There are approximately 3.2 million people currently infected with HCV in the United States. In late 2013, the introduction of sofosbuvir and simeprevir represented a critical advancement in the treatment of HCV by improving sustained virologic response (SVR) rates.

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate medication utilization and clinical outcomes of patients with HCV who were treated with any Food and Drug Administration-approved combination of ribavirin, peginterferon products, simeprevir, and sofosbuvir.

Methods:

Prescription records and clinical assessment forms of patients who started HCV therapy and were eligible for SVR between January 1, 2014, and December 31, 2014, were retrospectively reviewed. Data collection included patient demographics, genotype, SVR, patient-reported adverse events, discontinuations, and adherence markers.

Results:

A total of 367 eligible patients were identified who had initiated treatment during the study period. Genotype 1 was the most common genotype, and an overall SVR rate of 86.9% was observed. Results were similar to those seen in phase III clinical trials. In addition, adverse events of these medications were more tolerable, and discontinuation rates were lower than with previous therapies.
The Internet and the Commitment of Volunteers
Authors: Emrich Eike , Pierdzioch Christian
Published: January 2016

We used an online questionnaire study of volunteers working for the German Red Cross (GRC) to analyze whether Internet use is correlated with the commitment of volunteers. We measured commitment multidimensionally in terms of the willingness of the volunteers to donate, their reported willingness to expand their volunteer work, and their satisfaction with their volunteer work. Upon controlling for numerous socioeconomic factors, we found that volunteering-related use of the Internet is positively correlated with commitment while Internet use for leisure-related activities does not exhibit such a positive correlation. We derive our findings using a micro data set that contains information on the intensities and forms of Internet use of volunteers. Our findings contribute to the literature on the implications of Internet use for social capital and the social integration of users.
Rail profile synthesis with special reference to G1 continuity
Authors: Chien Ming-Hung , Wu Ye-Ee , Liao Kuen-Laing , Chieng Wei-Hua
Published: January 2016

Generally, standards for rail profiles are in the form of rail section drawings, this renders them inapplicable for use in the mathematical approaches used to calculate wheel/rail contact conditions. This article details a mechanical drawing method for the description of numerous rail profiles and provides a rail profile equation. Many types of methods to draw connected circular arcs are proposed, with special reference to the G1 continuity curve. The characteristic values for segments of the rail profile are calculated using this analysis approach and high-accuracy (six decimal places) values are obtained. Therefore, they can be used in the simulation of the rail/wheel interaction to avoid surface discontinuities and thus provide a higher solution convergence rate. The proposed method based on the mechanical drawing analysis approach is applicable to general rail profile design.
Ratchetting damage of railhead material of gapped rail joints with reference to free rail end effects
Authors: Mandal Nirmal Kumar
Published: January 2016

Free ends of insulated rail joints occur because gaps between the rails and endposts can be created due to pull-apart problems as the rails contract longitudinally in winter and by degradation of railhead material. Dynamic behaviour of gapped rail joints changes adversely compared to that of insulated rail joints. Thus, material degradation and damage of gapped rail joint components such as rail ends, joint bars, etc. are accelerated. Only limited literatures are available addressing the free end of rail effects at rail joints, targeting stress and pressure distributions in the vicinity of the rail joints. To understand clearly the material degradation and delamination process of gapped rail joints, a thorough analysis of failure of both insulated rail joints and gapped rail joints and subsequent damage of the railhead material is necessary to improve the service life of these joints. A new three-dimensional finite element analysis is carried out in this paper to assess damage to railhead material when gapped rail joints form. Both narrow (5 mm) and wide (10 mm) gaps are considered, using a peak vertical pressure load of 2500 MPa applied cyclically at one rail end, forming vertical impacts. Stress distributions and plastic deformations in the vicinity of gapped rail joints are quantified using finite element analysis data and compared with that of the insulated rail joints to show the effects of free rail ends. Residual stress and strain distributions indicate the damage to the railhead material. Equivalent plastic strain (PEEQ) quantifies the progressive damage to the railhead material at the rail ends. The free end of rail effects can be further illustrated by comparing PEEQ for insulated rail joints and gapped rail joints. The railhead material of 5 and 10 mm gapped rail joints is more sensitive to permanent deformation compared to that of the corresponding insulated rail joints. Therefore, free rail end joints pose an increased potential threat to rail operations in relation to crack initiation, damage and premature failure of railhead material.
Forward sweep to improve the efficiency of rotor-only tube-axial fans with controlled vortex design blades
Authors: Masi Massimo , Castegnaro Stefano , Lazzaretto Andrea
Published: January 2016

Common blade design techniques are based on the assumption of the airflow laying on cylindrical surfaces. This behaviour is proper only for free-vortex flow, whereas radial fluid migration along the span is always present in case of controlled vortex design blades. The paper presents a design procedure to increase aeraulic efficiency of fan rotors originally designed using a controlled vortex criterion, based on the assumption that a blade section positioning taking into account the actual airflow direction could be beneficial for rotor aeraulic performance. The proposed procedure employs a three-dimensional aerofoil positioning and blade forward sweep. The procedure is applied to a rotor-only tube-axial fan featuring a 0.44 hub-to-tip ratio, an almost constant swirl velocity distribution at the rotor outlet and a quite low blade Reynolds number. Rotor prototypes deriving from step-by-step blade modifications are experimentally tested on an ISO 5801 standard test rig. Results show the importance of considering radial fluid migration for highly loaded rotors.
Holocene vegetation history and soil development reflected in the lake sediments of the Karkonosze Mountains (Poland)
Authors: Malkiewicz Malgorzata , Waroszewski Jaroslaw , Bojko Oskar , Egli Markus , Kabala Cezary
Published: January 2016

A 11-m-long lake sediment core of a mountain lake situated at 1225 m a.s.l. in the Karkonosze Mountains (Poland) provided a unique, multi-proxy archive to reconstruct natural and human-induced environmental changes over the entire Holocene period. Pollen analyses allowed for the local and regional reconstruction of vegetation history. The chemical composition of the core and the determination of amorphous Fe and Al phases enabled to trace back soil formation in the surrounding catchment. About 11 ka ago, birch-pine and pine-birch communities started to develop in the Preboreal chronozone. Subsequently, the vegetation cover changed to Corylus– Picea–Abies +  Fagus in the higher and middle mountain zones, and to Ulmus– Quercus– Carpinus in the mountain foreland and footslopes. The decline of forests that started in the 11th century because of clearing was accompanied by the expansion of grasses, both as pastures in the mountains and cereal crops in the foreland. At the same time, the mining and smelting gave rise to environmental pollution with heavy metals (Pb, Cu and Zn) at a regional scale. Combined geochemical and palynological data indicated relationships between vegetation type, sediment texture and its elemental composition. This relationship seemed to be linked to climatic conditions and surface erosion intensity. A first progressive soil-forming phase occurred from 10.9 until about 8.4 ka cal. BP. Rapid and strong soil erosion (regressive phase), related to rapid climate deterioration, occurred at about 8.4 ka cal. BP. Thereafter, continuous soil formation (progressive phase) and podzolization in the Boreal and Atlantic continued until about 1 ka BP when strong human impact (deforestation) led again to a regressive soil evolution.
Environmental change in the Western Iberia Upwelling Ecosystem since the preindustrial period revealed by dinoflagellate cyst records
Authors: Ribeiro Sofia , Amorim Ana , Abrantes Fátima , Ellegaard Marianne
Published: January 2016

We present the first multi-site study of dinoflagellate cyst records spanning ca. AD 1860–2000 from the west Iberian coast. Our aim was to reconstruct environmental changes in the Western Iberia Upwelling Ecosystem, one of the most biologically productive areas in the world, and an active fishery region. A major shift in cyst assemblages was recorded off the northwestern shelf sector between 1920 and 1950 towards autotrophic dominance, and consisted of a multi-fold increase in total cyst concentrations and cysts of Lingulodinium polyedrum, accompanied by an increase in Protoceratium reticulatum cysts. The observed changes pre-date the industrialization of agriculture in Portugal, and are concomitant with a shift in the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) towards negative indices (higher river input) and increasing sea-surface temperatures. The southernmost record, with reduced river- and human influence, showed only minor changes during the 20th century. Here, an increase in Protoperidinioid cysts after the 1980s is related to upwelling intensification. Our study indicates that the main changes recorded in the Western Iberian Upwelling system during the 20th century were driven by regional climate variability (warming, increased water stability and nutrient availability), possibly enhanced by anthropogenic nutrient input from the second half of the century. Our results highlight the complexity of the environmental drivers that may act upon dinoflagellate communities within the same region. The 20th-century environmental change in the Western Iberian Ecosystem has resulted in a shift towards marked autotrophic dominance of dinoflagellate cyst communities, and the northward expansion of species associated with Harmful Algal Blooms.
Successful treatment of severe refractory lupus hepatitis with mycophenolate mofetil
Authors: Tagawa Y , Saito T , Takada K , Kawahata K , Kohsaka H
Published: January 2016

Systemic lupus erythematosus-related hepatitis, known as lupus hepatitis, is a rare manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus, and is usually subclinical with mild abnormalities of serum liver enzymes. While cases with clinically significant and refractory lupus hepatitis are uncommon, treatment options for lupus hepatitis are to be established. Here, we report the case of a 45-year-old man with progressive lupus hepatitis accompanied by autoimmune haemolytic anaemia. Lupus hepatitis of this patient was refractory to tacrolimus, azathioprine and cyclophosphamide, but was successfully treated by mycophenolate mofetil. Mycophenolate mofetil might be an effective therapeutic option for refractory lupus hepatitis.
Psychometric properties of the Greek version of Jacelon Attributed Dignity Scale
Authors: Papastavrou Evridiki , Charitou Paraskevi , Kouta Christiana
Published: January 2016

Background:

Maintaining dignity is important for successful aging, but there is lack of validated research instruments in the nursing literature to investigate dignity as perceived by the old people.

Objective:

This is a methodological study aiming to investigate the psychometric properties of the Greek version of Jacelon Attributed Dignity Scale as translated in the Greek language.

Research design:

A methodological approach consisting of translation, adaptation, and cross-cultural validation. A sample of 188 Greek-speaking old Cypriot persons drawn from the Hospital outpatient departments was asked to complete the Greek versions of Jacelon Attributed Dignity Scale and the Instrumental Activities of Daily Living. Data analyses included internal consistency reliability (Cronbach’s alpha coefficient), item analysis, and exploratory factor analysis using principal component method with orthogonal varimax rotation.

Ethical considerations:

The study protocol was approved by the National Bioethics committee according to the national legislation. Permission to use the research instrument was granted from the author. Information about the aim and the benefits of the study was included in the information letter.

Findings:

Cronbach’s alpha for Greek version of Jacelon Attributed Dignity Scale was 0.90. Four factors emerged explaining 65.28% of the total variance, and item to total correlation values ranged from 0.25 to 0.74 indicating high internal consistency and homogeneity. Mean item score in Instrumental Activities of Daily Living was 5.6 (standard deviation = 1.7) for men and 6.7 (standard deviation = 1.7) for women, and the correlations between demographics, Instrumental Activities of Daily Living, and the four factors of the Greek version of Jacelon Attributed Dignity Scale were low; also in multiple linear regression, the values of R2 are presented low.

Discussion:

Demographic characteristics and degree of functionality seem to be associated with some of the dimensions of dignity but with low correlations; therefore, they cannot predict attributed dignity.

Conclusion:

The Greek version of Jacelon Attributed Dignity Scale is a valid and reliable tool to measure attributed dignity in Greek-speaking older adults, but further testing of the psychometric properties and other potential factors that may affect the attributed dignity is needed.
Development of a Scale to Assess Physician Advance Care Planning Self-Efficacy
Authors: Baughman Kristin R. , Ludwick Ruth , Fischbein Rebecca , McCormick Kenelm , Meeker James , Hewit Mike , Drost Jennifer , Kropp Denise
Published: January 2016

Background:

Although patients prefer that physicians initiate advance care planning (ACP) conversations, few physicians regularly do so. Physicians may be reluctant to initiate ACP conversations because they lack self-efficacy in their skills. Yet, no validated scale on self-efficacy for ACP exists. Our objective was to develop a scale that measures physicians’ ACP self-efficacy (ACP-SE) and to investigate the validity of the tool.

Methods:

Electronic questionnaires were administered to a random sample of family medicine physicians (n = 188). Exploratory factor analysis was performed to determine whether the scale was multidimensional. An initial assessment of the scale’s validity was also conducted.

Results:

The exploratory factor analysis indicated that a single factor was appropriate using all 17 items. A single, unidimensional scale was created by averaging the 17 items, yielding good internal consistency (Cronbach α = 0.95). The average scale score was 3.94 (standard deviation = 0.71) on a scale from 1 to 5. The scale was moderately correlated with a global single-item measure of self-efficacy for ACP ( r = .79, P < .001), and the scale differentiated between physician groups based on how much ACP they were doing, how recently they had an ACP conversation, formal training on ACP, and knowledge of ACP. In a multivariate analysis, the ACP-SE scale was a strong predictor of the percentage of patients with chronic life-limiting diseases with whom the physician discussed ACP.

Conclusion:

The final ACP-SE scale included 17 items and demonstrated high internal consistency.
Desirable Information of Opioids for Families of Patients With Terminal Cancer
Authors: Okamoto Yoshiaki , Tsuneto Satoru , Morita Tatsuya , Takagi Tatsuya , Shimizu Megumi , Miyashita Mitsunori , Uejima Etsuko , Shima Yasuo
Published: January 2016

Objective:

The aims of this study are to clarify the state of information regarding opioids for families and what kinds of experiences they had with opioids while the patient was followed as an outpatient and inpatient.

Participants:

This study was part of a cross-sectional nationwide survey of bereaved families of patients with cancer, namely, the Japan Hospice and Palliative Care Evaluation 2 study. The participants in this study comprised 572 bereaved families who had experienced the death of a family member during the period from January 2008 to December 2009 at 1 of 103 certificated palliative care units.

Main Outcome Measures:

In response to the question of “how much improvement was needed for information regarding opioids,” 41% answered “improvement is not necessary at all,” 43% answered “improvement is slightly necessary,” 14% answered “improvement is necessary,” and 2% answered “improvement is extremely necessary.” Regarding anxiety about the use of opioid, it was found that 14% of respondents indicated “opioids are very safe,” 65% of respondents indicated “opioids are relatively safe,” 19% of respondents indicated “opioids are not so safe,” and 2% of respondents indicated “opioids are not so safe at all.” from the information obtained for opioids. It was found that 90% of families agreed with the item, “I would like to be clearly explained that drugs for medical purposes are safe and that the patient will not develop a drug addiction and their life expectancy will not be reduced.”

Conclusion:

From this study, it is important for families of patients with cancer to be explained profound and careful information of opioid.
Constructing Men as Fathers
Authors: Schmitz Rachel M.
Published: January 2016

Contemporary ideologies of fatherhood reflect the importance of instrumental support of breadwinning men; however, there has been an increased emphasis on the expressive and nurturing aspects of fathers. This content analysis explores popular portrayals of fatherhood as conceptualized in articles ( N = 50) from five American parenting magazines. Depictions of fathers fell into categories supportive of hegemonic masculinity that emphasized men’s breadwinning identities over their roles as parents. Men were often cast in ambiguous situations where they struggled to establish their parental legitimacy. Many articles revolved around men’s pathways to fatherhood. Fathers who internalize these portrayals of fatherhood from popular media may not view themselves as true parents if they do not see themselves positively represented in generalist parenting depictions.
What Drives Conspiratorial Beliefs? The Role of Informational Cues and Predispositions
Authors: Uscinski Joseph E. , Klofstad Casey , Atkinson Matthew D.
Published: January 2016

Why do people believe in conspiracy theories? This study breaks from much previous research and attempts to explain conspiratorial beliefs with traditional theories of opinion formation. Specifically, we focus on the reception of informational cues given a set of predispositions (political and conspiratorial). We begin with observational survey data to show that there exists a unique predisposition that drives individuals to one degree or another to believe in conspiracy theories. This predisposition appears orthogonal to partisanship and predicts political behaviors including voter participation. Then a national survey experiment is used to test the effect of an informational cue on belief in a conspiracy theory while accounting for both conspiratorial predispositions and partisanship. Our results provide an explanation for individual-level heterogeneity in the holding of conspiratorial beliefs and also indicate the conditions under which information can drive conspiratorial beliefs.
Effect of initial stress on periodic Timoshenko beams resting on an elastic foundation
Authors: Liu Xinnan , Shi Zhifei , Mo YL
Published: January 2016

A novel numerical approach based on the weak form quadrature element method is developed to study the effect of initial stress on the attenuation zones and attenuation coefficients of periodic Timoshenko beams resting on a two-parameter elastic foundation. For some special cases, comparisons with other related investigations are conducted to validate the proposed method, and good agreement is found. The results show that the compressive initial stress enhances the maximum attenuation in the second attenuation zone while it weakens the maximum attenuation in the first attenuation zone. In addition, based on the detailed modal analysis, simplified models are proposed to determine the bound frequencies of the lowest attenuation zone. Furthermore, frequency domain analysis and transient response analysis for a beam with finite unit cells are performed to verify the theoretical analysis of the infinite-unit cell beam. The present investigation is very helpful for the design and application of periodic strip foundations and pipelines for vibration isolation in buildings and infrastructures.