bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Temperature profiles obtained in thermoelastic stress test for different frequencies
Authors: Silva António José Ramos , Moreira P.M.G. , Vaz Mario A.P. , Gabriel Joaquim 
Published: January 2017

Purpose
Maintenance is one of the most critical and expensive operations during the life cycle of metallic structures, in particular in the aeronautic industry. However, early detection of fatigue cracks is one of the most demanding operations in global maintenance procedures. In this context, non-destructive testing using image techniques may represent one of the best solutions in such situations, especially thermal stress analyses (TSA) using infrared thermography. The purpose of this paper is to access and characterize the main stress profile calculated through temperature variation, for different load frequencies.

Design/methodology/approach
In this paper, a cyclic load is applied to an aluminum sample component while infrared thermal image is being acquired. According to the literature and experiments, a cyclic load applied to a material results in cyclic temperature variation.

Findings
Frequency has been shown to be an important parameter in TSA evaluations, increasing the measured stress profile amplitude. The loading stimulation frequency and the maximum stress recorded show a good correlation (R2 higher than 0.995). It was verified that further tests and modeling should be performed to fully comprehend the influence of load frequency and to create a standard to conduct thermal stress tests.

Originality/value
This work revealed that the current infrared technology is capable of reaching far more detailed thermal and spatial resolution than the one used in the development of TSA models. Thus, for the first time the influence of mechanical load frequency in the thermal profiles of TSA is visible and consequentially the measured mechanical stress.
Seismic rehabilitation effect in a steel moment frame subjected to tow critical loads
Authors: Faghihmaleki Hadi , Khaksar Najafi Elmira , Hooshmand Aini Ali 
Published: January 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to present a probabilistic assessment and verify the effectiveness of seismic improvement schemes against earthquake, blast and progressive collapse. The probabilistic analysis is performed by taking into account the uncertainties in loading such as planar configuration and amplitude of the blast loading. A standard Monte Carlo (MC) simulation method is employed to generate various concepts of the uncertain parameters within the problem. For a given concept, various local dynamic analyses are performed within a certain range of distance, in order to quantify and locate the damage induced by impact wave on structural elements. In the next step, a limit state analysis is performed in order to investigate whether a progressive collapse mechanism forms under the acting loads or not.

Design/methodology/approach
( | ) and ( | ) are blast fragility and seismic fragility, respectively; ( ) and ( ) are annual occurrence rate of earthquake and blast, respectively. The purpose of the current study is to calculate for the primary structure as well as the retrofitted structure. Annual occurrence rate of earthquake can be calculated by using probability seismic hazard analysis for the site of interest, where the structure is located. In this paper, blast fragility and seismic fragility are defined rather differently; in other words, seismic fragility is defined as the probability of structural collapse given a specified level of seismic intensity whereas blast fragility is defined as the probability of collapse given that a significant blast event takes place. Both blast and earthquake loading conditions involve the activation of energy dissipation mechanism and, as a consequence, both can be resisted employing ductility enhancing techniques, such as column wrapping or jacketing and steel bracing.

Findings
The current paper aims to present a probabilistic assessment of progressive collapse under blast and earthquake loads. Non-dependent and incompatible events are considered to obtain a general rate of collapse. Finally, probabilistic collapse rate was obtained for a moment frame before and after modifying with convergent steel brace (CBF). The purpose of doing so is to investigate whether seismic improvement schemes can reduce collapse risk of different critical events or not.

Originality/value
Objective of the present work is to present a methodology for calculating the annual risk of collapse for a civil structure subjected to both seismic and blast loads, using a bi-hazard approach. Given that a blast event takes place, the probability of progressive collapse is calculated using a MC simulation procedure. The simulation procedure implements an efficient non-linear limit state analysis, formulated and solved as a linear programming problem. The probability of collapse caused by an earthquake event can be calculated by integrating the seismic fragility of the structure and the seismic hazard for the site.
Side-vent-channels solution for improved buried-mine-blast survivability of a light-tactical-vehicle
Authors: Grujicic Mica , Yavari Ramin , Ramaswami S. , Snipes Jennifer 
Published: January 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to carry out a design-optimization analysis of the recently proposed side-vent-channel concept/solution for mitigation of the blast loads resulting from a shallow-buried mine detonated underneath a light tactical vehicle. Within this concept/solution, side-vent-channels attached to the V-shaped vehicle underbody are used to promote venting of ejected soil and supersonically expanding gaseous detonation products. This effect generates a downward thrust on the targeted vehicle, helping the vehicle survive mine-detonation-induced impulse loading.

Design/methodology/approach
The utility and the blast-mitigation capacity of this concept are investigated computationally using coupled finite-element/discrete-particle computational methods and tools. To maximize the blast-mitigation capacity of the solution (as defined by a tradeoff between the maximum reductions in the detonation-induced total momentum transferred to, and the acceleration acquired by, the target vehicle), the geometry and size of the side-vent-channel solution are optimized.

Findings
It is found that by optimizing the shape and size of the side-vent-channels, their ability to mitigate blast can be improved, but the overall blast-mitigation potential of the side-vent-channel solution remains relatively modest.

Originality/value
To the authors’ knowledge, the present work is the first attempt to combine the finite-element/discrete-particle analysis with optimization in order to refine the side-vent-channel blast-mitigation concept.
On the effect of reduced boundary elements in steel shear walls
Authors: Talaeitaba Sayed Behzad , Esmaeili Hamed , Torki Mohammad Ebrahim 
Published: January 2017

PurposeSteel shear walls have recently received exclusive remark. Respective of most building code requirements, design of shear wall vertical boundary elements (VBEs) and local boundary elements (LBEs) against web yielding triggers exaggerated stiffness. The extent of stiffness reduction effects in boundary elements thus calls for more exhaustive investigation. The paper aims to discuss these issues.Design/methodology/approachTo this end, FEM-based push-over curves demonstrating base shear vs roof displacement, and von Mises plastic strains were scrutinized in half-scale and full-size models. Analyses were in perfect conformity with experimental data.FindingsWith reference to the AISC requirement, up to 35 percent decrease in the VBE moments of inertia could be imparted in higher levels without the ultimate load capacity nor displacement to failure being reduced. Also considered was open shear walls with reduced or minimum-design LBEs, the latter being used in continuous or abridged form. LBEs could be used with a moment of inertia 80 percent smaller than required if only used in a continuous form. The effect due to opening geometry was negligible on loading capacity but distinguished on the post-yielding buckling-induced softening.Practical implicationsLight-weight design of low- to medium-level steel structures against earthquake loads.Originality/valueWith respect to continuous walls, the results are more comprehensive than those existing in the literature in that they combine the effects due to scale and orientation (horizontal or vertical) of boundary elements. The results for open shear walls are not only comprehensive but also original in a sense that they account for the influences induced by the opening type (door or window), orientation (horizontal or vertical), and design (full-length or abridged) of boundary elements, in reduced form, on the lateral stiffness of the frame.
Monitoring of compressive behaviour of stiffened composite panels using embedded fibre optic and strain gauge sensors
Authors: Ruzek Roman , Kadlec Martin , Tserpes Konstantinos , Karachalios Evaggelos 
Published: January 2017

Purpose
Compression is critical loading condition for composite airframes. Compression behaviour of structures with or without damages is a weak point for composite fuselage panels. This is one of the reasons for need of continuous in-service health monitoring of composite structures. The purpose of this paper is to characterize the compression panel behaviour on the base of a developed and implemented structural health monitoring (SHM) system.

Design/methodology/approach
The SHM system based on fibre optic Bragg grating (FOBG) sensors and standard resistance strain gauges (SGs) was placed onto/into (embedded or bonded) three stiffened carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) fuselage panels. The FOBG sensor system was used to monitor the structural integrity of the reference, impacted, and fatigued panels under compression loading. Both barely visible impact damage and visible impact damage were created to evaluate their influence on the panel behaviour. The functionality of the SHM system was verified through mechanical testing.

Findings
Experimental data showed the presence of impact damages significantly changes the buckling modes development and deformation behaviour of the panels. Some differences between the optical and SG sensors during buckling were observed. The buckling waves and failure development were very well indicated during loading by all sensors located on the panel surface but not by the embedded sensors. Good agreement between the data from the SGs and FOBG sensors was achieved for all sensors placed on the stringers, which did not buckle. The good reliability of FOBG sensors during the fatigue and static testing up to panel failure was verified.

Originality/value
The paper gives information about different buckling behaviour of CFRP fuselage stiffened panels in compression. The paper gives detailed information about measured signals from different sensors based on their location on/in the panel structure for realistic loading scenario of composite aerostructures. The paper gives an integrated overview of sensors placement considering possibilities to predicate structure behaviour.
Factors associated with the size of internal audit functions: evidence from Kuwait
Authors: Alhajri Meshari O. 
Published: January 2017

Purpose
This study aims to examine whether the size of internal audit functions (IAFs) is significantly related to factors documented by related prior auditing research, namely, diffusion of ownership, firm size, affiliation to the financial services industry, proportion of assets in the form of receivables and inventory, audit committee’s size and the presence of risk management committee.

Design/methodology/approach
Using data related to companies listed on the Kuwait Stock Exchange, this study uses a regression model to examine research hypothesis related to factors predicted to have an association with the size of the firm’s IAF.

Findings
The results of the current study provide evidence of a significantly positive relation between the size of the IAF and firm’s affiliation to the finance sector, audit committee’s size and the presence of a separate risk management committee. Such empirical evidence, which stems from the Kuwaiti market, is expected to be valuable for regulators and policy makers as well as audit researchers interested in linking it to the international empirical findings about this issue documented in other audit markets.

Originality/value
This study is original because it is the first to empirically examine factors associated with the size of IAFs in the GCC region, including Kuwait.
Referrals for new client acquisition in professional services
Authors: Grierson Stuart , Brennan Ross 
Published: January 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to address the following research question: What are the perceptions of professionals and consumers regarding the antecedents of client referrals in the financial advice sector?

Design/methodology/approach
A total of 61 qualitative interviews were conducted, with the following three key groups: independent financial advisers (IFAs; 20 interviews), clients of IFAs (26 interviews) and consumers who manage their own financial affairs and do not use the services of an IFA (15 interviews).

Findings
The financial advisers interviewed believe that client referrals are important to their business success, that they can influence clients to become ambassadors who will consciously seek out new clients and that excellent service will motivate clients to provide referrals. However, the interviews with the clients painted a different picture. While advisers believe that they can influence client referral behavior, the clients did not believe that they were influenced by the adviser to make referrals.

Research limitations/implications
The sampling method was non-random and relied on the professional contacts of the principal researcher as a starting point, from which a network of contacts was established to identify interviewees. The study casts doubt on the ability of professional service providers to influence client referral behavior. This novel finding deserves further research investigation.

Practical implications
There is clearly scope for greater measurement in connection with referrals in professional service businesses. The propensity for clients to refer should be included as a metric in the performance measurement of professional service providers, in addition to standard financial measures. This would encourage the service provider to consider referrals during client interactions.

Originality/value
The study reports on a substantial qualitative study involving both professional service providers and their clients. While the providers believe that client referrals are critical to their business success, the evidence collected provides little or no support for this belief. Clients report they are not motivated to refer. Advisers do not explicitly measure referrals. The reality of referrals seems not to match the mythology.
Improving health care quality: the implementation of whistleblowing
Authors: Ciasullo Maria Vincenza , Cosimato Silvia , Palumbo Rocco 
Published: January 2017

Purpose
In line with the current literature, the purpose of this paper is to contribute to a better understanding of whistleblowing procedures and their influence on overall organisational quality. To this end, institutional, organisational, and cultural barriers to whistleblowing implementation have been investigated.

Design/methodology/approach
A qualitative analysis based on three explorative case studies investigates and compares different whistleblowing practices implemented in health care organisations, operating within the Italian National Health Service (INHS).

Findings
INHS organisations have implemented whistleblowing procedures in different ways, despite the fact that the procedures are laid down by law. These differences are mainly due to cultural, administrative, organisational, and process barriers, which have a deep impact on whistleblowing integration in managerial practices and their influence on the overall quality of health processes and services.

Research limitations/implications
This research paper was limited by the analysis of three Italian public health care organisations, which did not allow the generalisability of findings. Therefore, the study offers interesting insights on the way effective whistleblowing systems should be implemented in order to support managers to improve organisation’s management and service quality.

Originality/value
The paper represents one of the first attempts to structurally analyse the practice of whistleblowing in an Italian healthcare system. Therefore the study has mainly focussed not only on the analysis of whistleblowing practices, but also on their impacts on the improvement of organisational processes’ quality and, subsequently, on social well-being.
Evolution of top management’s understanding of product quality in Eastern Europe since the end of communism
Authors: Georgiev Svetoslav , Georgiev Emil 
Published: January 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to analyse the evolution of top management’s understanding of product quality in Bulgaria since the end of communism. The study examines three specific areas: top management’s understanding of the term “quality”; top management’s understanding of the relationship between quality and business performance; and top management’s understanding of the impact of job position on quality.

Design/methodology/approach
The paper relies on a quantitative research approach by using data from a survey of 186 companies in Bulgaria.

Findings
The paper suggests that senior managers in Bulgaria continue to base their understanding of “quality” on a single approach (*a characteristic of the communist era), with the product-based and the user-based approaches currently being the two most common ones. At the same time, surprisingly enough, this study claims that senior management in Bulgaria is currently well aware of the importance of quality as a dimension of firm’s competitiveness, and is also highly conscious of its roles’ impact on product quality.

Research limitations/implications
The results of this study are exclusively based on the case of Bulgaria and must be treated with caution in the case of other former communist states from the Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) region.

Practical implications
This paper has relevance for both managers and companies doing business in Eastern Europe.

Originality/value
This is the first paper to provide detailed analysis of the evolution of the understanding of “product quality” in CEE since the end of communism. Moreover, this paper applies, for the first time, Garvin’s five approaches to defining quality within a practical context.
Identifying the critical determinants of TQM and their impact on company performance
Authors: Bouranta Nancy , Psomas Evangelos L. , Pantouvakis Angelos 
Published: January 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to enrich the existing literature by determining the underlying structure (latent factors) of total quality management (TQM) practices and their impact on company performance outcomes in the Greek hotel industry.

Design/methodology/approach
The research questions were examined using a sample of 153 top-and middle-level hotel-quality managers. Exploratory factor analyses, coupled with multiple linear regression analyses, were used to examine the extent to which elements of TQM influence hotel performance.

Findings
The TQM factors revealed by the present empirical research in the hotel industry are the quality practices of top management, strategic quality planning, employee quality management, customer focus and employee knowledge and education. On the other hand, the performance dimensions revealed through the present study are summarized as: financial performance, customer focused performance and service quality performance. The results also confirmed that most of the TQM elements are antecedents of hotel business performance.

Practical implications
Hotel managers/owners using reliable and valid frameworks comprising TQM practices and performance outcomes may better address their efforts by choosing whether to invest in company refurbishing or better train their personnel to maximize hotel performance.

Originality/value
The purpose of this study is to enrich the existing literature by identifying and confirming the enablers and outcomes of TQM specifically within the hospitality industry. Moreover, the relationship between the implementation of TQM practices and superior company performance is also examined due to the past contradictory results regarding this matter.
An observational study of community‐acquired severe sepsis comparing intensive care and non‐intensive care patients
Authors: Nygård S. T. , Skrede S. , Langeland N. , Flaatten H. K. 
Published: January 2017

BackgroundMost studies of sepsis are from intensive care units (ICUs). We aimed to investigate community‐acquired severe sepsis in a broader population, in order to compare patients treated in or outside an ICU .MethodsWe performed a 1‐year prospective observational study with enrollment of patients from three units; a general ICU, a combined ICU/non‐ICU and a medical ward with limited surveillance facilities. Hospital survivors were followed up for 5 years.ResultsOverall, 220 patients were included, of which 107 received ICU treatment. The majority of abdominal (77%, P = 0.003) and genitourinary (81%, P < 0.001) infections were found in ICU and non‐ICU patients, respectively. Time to first antibiotic administration was longer in ICU‐patients (median 3.5 vs. 2.0 h in non‐ICU patients, P = 0.011). ICU developed more organ dysfunctions than non‐ICU patients (P < 0.001), nevertheless supportive therapy with vasoactive drugs and non‐invasive ventilation was documented in 22% and 27% of the latter. Median hospital length of stay was 15 vs. 9 days (P = 0.001), and hospital and 5‐year mortality rates 35% vs. 16% (P = 0.002) and 57% vs. 58% (P = 0.892) among ICU and non‐ICU patients, respectively. Increasing age (HR 1.06 (1.04, 1.07) per year, P < 0.001), not care level during hospitalization (HR 1.19 (0.70, 2.02), P = 0.514), influenced long‐term survival.ConclusionHalf of the subjects with community‐acquired severe sepsis never received ICU treatment. Still, use of organ supportive therapy outside the ICU was considerable. Hospital mortality was higher, whereas 5‐year survival was similar when comparing ICU with non‐ICU patients.