bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Force Design of Tensegrity Structures by Enumeration of Vertices of Feasible Region
Authors: Ohsaki M. , Zhang J. Y. , Ohishi Y.
Published: September 2008

An optimization approach is presented for force design of tensegrity structures by enumeration of the vertices of the feasible region of the prestresses, which is defined as the linear combinations of the coefficients of the self-equilibrium force vectors. The unilateral properties of the stresses in cables and struts are taken into consideration. In order to design the stiffest structure against uncertain external loads as well as specific external loads, a multiobjective optimization problem is formulated for simultaneous maximization of the lowest eigenvalue of the tangent stiffness matrix and minimization of the compliance against a specified set of external loads. In the numerical example, Pareto optimal solutions are found by enumerating the vertices of the feasible region of prestresses of a tensegrity grid, and the monotonicity properties of the objective functions are investigated.
Static Stability Behaviour of Plane Double-Layer Tensegrity Structures
Authors: Abedi K. , Shekastehband B.
Published: September 2008

Tensegrity systems are structures made up of an assembly of pin-jointed pre-stressed continuous tension members (cables) and discontinuous compressive members (struts), arranged in different complex shapes. In the present study, static stability behaviour of plane double-layer tensegrity structures was investigated. Having verified the finite element modeling, several different collapse analyses were carried out in order to examine the instability behaviour of these tensegrity systems. Consequently, the different collapse mechanisms of the tensegrity systems were determined. In this study, the effects of the tensegrity configuration, the influence of the self-stress level, the effects of the post-buckling response of the “compression only” members and the post-yield response of the “tension only” members were investigated. Based on the obtained results, some important conclusions have been drawn and some design recommendations are put forward to prevent the occurrence of the dangerous collapse mechanisms.
Windfarm Generation Assessment for Reliability Analysis of Power Systems
Authors: Negra Nicola Barberis , Holmstrøm Ole , Bak-Jensen Birgitte , Sørensen Poul
Published: September 2008

Due to the fast development of wind generation in the past ten years, increasing interest has been paid to techniques for assessing different aspects of power systems with a large amount of installed wind generation. One of these aspects concerns power system reliability. Windfarm modelling plays a significant role in this assessment and different models have been created for it, but a representation which includes all of them has not been developed yet. This paper deals with this issue. First, a list of nine influencing Factors is presented and discussed. Secondly, these Factors are included in a reliability model and the generation of a windfarm is evaluated by means of sequential Monte Carlo simulation. Results are used to analyse how each mentioned Factor influences the assessment, and why and when they should be included in the model.
Transmission and Firming of GW-Scale Wind Energy via Hydrogen and Ammonia
Authors: Leighty Bill , Holbrook John
Published: September 2008

This is a conceptual study, for MW to GW scale, comparing production, transmission, and storage costs for gaseous hydrogen (GH2) and anhydrous ammonia (NH3) fuels made from wind-generated electricity, with and without the low-cost, annual-scale, firming storage which would add great market and strategic value. Both fuels are suitable for vehicles and for distributed generation (DG) in stationary combined-heat-and-power (CHP), via fuel cells or internal combustion engines (ICE's). NH3 is also a valuable fertilizer, and this study briefly examines the economics of renewable-source versus fossil-source production of NH3 fertilizer. No pilot plant exists for confirming the system capital costs and conversion efficiencies we estimate in this study, although both GH2 and NH3 have been proposed for wind energy transmission and storage [1–6]. Hydrogen is promising as a clean-burning energy carrier, and modern electrolyzers can produce large volumes of high-pressure hydrogen, ready for direct pipeline transmission and/or for ammonia synthesis, from renewable energy sources. Renewable-source hydrogen can alternatively be stored and transported as NH3, which can be readily synthesized, following electrolysis, using atmospheric nitrogen, and be used at the delivery end-point as a fertilizer or a fuel. Both GH2 and NH3 transmission and firming storage will accelerate our conversion from fossil to diverse renewable resources, via major new markets including, and beyond, the electricity sector.
Algorithms for Offshore Wind Farm Layout Optimization
Authors: Elkinton Christopher N. , Manwell James F. , McGowan Jon G.
Published: September 2008

Offshore wind energy is positioned to facilitate substantial growth in wind energy production, but further reductions in the cost of energy will strengthen its ability to compete directly with other energy generating technologies. One simple solution is the optimal use of current technologies. To this end, this study investigates the use of optimization algorithms for offshore wind farm micrositing. First, a discussion is given of five different types of optimization algorithms: gradient search, heuristic, pattern search, simulated annealing, and evolutionary algorithms. The relevance of each algorithm to wind turbine micrositing is then evaluated by considering two separate objectives: minimization of the levelized production cost and maximization of the energy production. The genetic and greedy heuristic algorithms are further evaluated through the use of design simulations. Finally, these algorithms are employed to optimize the layout of a potential, real-world offshore wind farm near Hull, Massachusetts.
Modal Testing for Validation of Blade Models
Authors: Griffith D. Todd , Carne Thomas G. , Paquette Joshua A.
Published: September 2008

The focus of this paper is a test program designed for wind turbine blades. Model validation is a comprehensive undertaking which requires carefully designing and executing experiments, proposing appropriate physics-based models, and applying correlation techniques to improve these models based on the test data. Structural models are useful for making decisions when designing a new blade or assessing blade performance, and the process of model validation is needed to ensure the quality of these models. Blade modal testing is essential for validation of blade structural models, and this report discusses modal test techniques required to achieve validation. Choices made in the design of a modal test can significantly affect the final test result. This study aims to demonstrate the importance of the proper pre-test design and test technique for validating blade structural models.
Nuclear Waste Management at the Interface of Science and Policy: The Canadian Experience
Authors: Leiss William
Published: September 2008

This paper reviews briefly the history of Canada's civilian nuclear energy program and the consideration of the problem of long-term disposal of nuclear waste. It shows that, after a period of twenty years of initial official deliberations on this problem, the decision making process foundered in the face of a specific dilemma: how to include, within an integrated assessment framework, both “technical” (expert judgment) and “social” (public acceptability) considerations. It argues that an expanded risk management framework, illustrated below, now provides such a framework:

The remainder of the paper reviews and comments on a decision making exercise, carried out in Canada in the year 2004, and using a method known as multi-attribute utility analysis (MAU), that provided a new approach to the issue of the management of nuclear waste. It argues that the MAU method has some distinctive advantages, over earlier approaches, where intrinsically controversial risk management situations are concerned.
Aboriginal Participation, Consultation, and Canada's Mackenzie Gas Project
Authors: Nuttall Mark
Published: September 2008

For the oil and gas industry, Arctic and Subarctic regions are considered to be some of the world's last energy frontiers, increasingly important for meeting global energy demands. As exploration intensifies and oil and gas development occurs in more of the Arctic, indigenous peoples are increasingly concerned about the interest of industry, national governments, and the far-reaching impact of the world market in their homelands. Pressure to sign on to development projects, to communicate and negotiate with industry and governments, and to adapt to a changing environment resulting from the activities of extractive industries is increasing. As a result, some indigenous peoples feel that they are losing control over their homelands and over their livelihoods. This article examines northern Canada's Mackenzie Gas Project and its possible implications for Aboriginal peoples in the Northwest Territories and northern Alberta. The Mackenzie Gas Project would see the development on Aboriginal lands of natural gas from three fields in the Mackenzie Delta area for delivery to markets in Canada and the United States by a pipeline up the Mackenzie Valley. The article looks at some of the key issues of this controversial project, examines local concerns over participation and consultation, and shows how it provides insight into some of the contested perspectives on the future of northern Canada, its peoples and the environment.
Conflict, Resistance and Alliances in a Multi-Governance Setting: Reshaping Realities in the Andhra Pradesh Irrigation Reforms
Authors: Nikku Bala Raju , van der Molen Irna
Published: September 2008

In this article, we will explore how local politics of policy, in the interaction with governance mechanisms, have produced specific polity outcomes in the irrigation sector of Andhra Pradesh. The water sector of Andhra Pradesh, which has been struggling within inefficiency, poor performance, deterioration, and lack of participation as elsewhere in India, has undergone substantial reforms aiming at Participatory Irrigation Management (PIM). Previous research has indicated how reform policy choices were contested and mediated by relevant actors and how this affected the outcome in key areas of irrigation management. This is referred to as the politics of policy. We will look at multi-level governance in a situation where different tiers represent different institutional basis, and argue that the politics of policy at multiple levels of governance can be perceived as a form of support and/or resilience by actors to new governance mechanisms/arrangements.
The Impact of Multi-Level Governance on Energy Performance in the Current Dutch Housing Stock
Authors: Hoppe Thomas , Lulofs Kris
Published: September 2008

The housing sector is responsible for 33% of total CO2 emissions in the Netherlands. As such, large reductions in CO2 emissions can be gained by increasing the energy performance in the existing housing stock. Yet, several barriers make this difficult. Renovation investments and maintenance costs are high while badly needed norms for energy improvement are absent. Furthermore, market developments and sectoral policies reflect a complex institutional environment in which many actors are interdependent, but also lack an individual sense of urgency regarding energy consumption. In this article, we try to determine how multi-level governance in Dutch housing affects the outcomes of policies aimed at CO2-reduction in the existing housing stock. We examined two housing sectors in the Netherlands: social housing and owner occupancy. We focus on policy implementation problems in the early 2000s. It turns out that the complex multilevel environment severely impedes the realization of ambitious policy goals.
Separation of Resonant and Non-Resonant Components—Part I: Sound Reduction Index
Authors: Mahn Jeffrey , Pearse John
Published: September 2008

There is much interest in applying EN12354-1 to lightweight buildings elements which may have critical frequencies above the frequency range of interest. The standard requires that only the resonant component of the sound reduction index be used in the predictions and therefore a reliable method of calculating the resonant component is needed for these elements. Several methods of calculating the resonant component are examined in this study. It was found that the various predictions of the resonant component can differ by as much as 18 dB. Calculation of the resonant component by subtracting the theoretical non-resonant component from the measured value was unreliable due to measurement uncertainty. Calculation of the resonant component using correction factors based on the components of the mean square velocity may be possible but may also be susceptible to measurement uncertainty. Definitive guidance for calculating the resonant component is needed in future revisions of EN12354-1 if it is to be applied to lightweight constructions.
Analysis of Damage in Laminated Architectural Glazing Subjected to Blast Loading
Authors: Zhao S. , Dharani L. R. , Liang X.
Published: September 2008

Any attempt to design glazing that minimizes bodily injury and property damage during a bomb blast requires a thorough understanding of the fracture behaviour of architectural glazing subjected to blast loading. A continuum damage mechanics (CDM) based constitutive model has been developed and implemented into a finite element code to study the failure and damage behaviour of laminated architectural glazing subjected to simulated blast loading. An anisotropic elastic damage tensor with a linear damage evolution law has been chosen to model the failure of the laminated glass by cracking. The damage patterns and zone sizes are predicted by the model. Various geometric parameters has been investigated to determine their effects on the failure resistance of laminated glass.
Structural Seismic Performance Evaluation in Consideration of Earthquake Ground Motion Uncertainties Using Convex Set Model
Authors: Jia Lizhe , Duan Zhongdong
Published: September 2008

When data is insufficient to support a probabilistic assumption, the structural seismic performance evaluation results with probabilistic approach are suspicious. In this paper, the convex set theory, which requires much less information, is employed to model the uncertainties of peak acceleration and frequency characteristics of earthquake ground motions. The bounds of shear forces are first derived with Chinese seismic code, and then a lateral bound load method for Push-over analysis is conducted. Then the convex analysis is integrated into Push-over analysis to study the bounds of structural capacity. Furthermore, the bounds of earthquake demand are deduced with the bounded convex set model and Chinese seismic code. The bounds of target displacement are obtained using capacity spectrum method. The seismic performance of structure is then evaluated with an interval. Finally, seismic performance evaluation of a three-storey RC building is given to demonstrate the benefits of the proposed method.
A New Tensegrity Module — “Torus”
Authors: Yuan Xingfei , Peng Zhangli , Dong Shilin , Zhao Baojun
Published: September 2008

Research on cylindrical and spherical tensegrity modules are extensively carried out. However research on other tensegrity modules is little reported. This paper presents an exploratory study on a new kind of tensegrity module – “torus”. The topology of the torus tensegrity is firstly introduced. Then the initial form-finding of the torus tensegrity is discussed. The static and dynamic analysis of the torus tensegrity shows that prestressing has a stiffening effect on infinitesimal mechanism modes if the geometry is properly arranged. A new cable dome with a torus tensegrity employed as its ring beam is finally proposed. The behavior of the new dome is also examined. The work here will provide a reference for further research and application of the torus tensegrity.
Direct Computation of the Noise Generated by Subsonic Jets Originating from a Straight Pipe Nozzle
Authors: Bogey Christophe , Barré Sébastien , Bailly Christophe
Published: September 2008

The noise generated by isothermal round jets at Mach number M = 0.9 and at the diameter-based Reynolds number ReD = 5 × 105, originating from a straight pipe nozzle, is computed directly using Large Eddy Simulation (LES), in order to highlight the potential influence of the inlet boundary conditions on the acoustic predictions. Two jets are simulated, displaying levels of fluctuating axial velocity at the nozzle exit respectively of 1.6% and 9% of the jet velocity, while the momentum thickness of the shear layers is nearly the same. The shear-layer development and the radiated sound fields obtained for the two jets are found to differ significantly. The shear layer of the jet with low initial turbulence levels develops for instance with higher turbulence intensities and a velocity flow field that is more correlated. In addition coherent annular vortices and pairings are clearly observed in this jet. Regarding the radiated noise, the jet with high initial turbulence levels provides sound levels and spectra in fairly good agreement with experimental data obtained for jets at Reynolds numbers ReD ≥ 5 × 105. The jet with low nozzle-exit turbulence levels is shown to generate more noise, which might result from vortex pairings in the shear layer as it was suggested by Zaman [1].
Prediction of Flowfield and Acoustic Signature of a Coaxial Jet Using RANS-Based Methods and Large-Eddy Simulation
Authors: Andersson Niklas , Eriksson Lars-Erik
Published: September 2008

The feasibility of using large-eddy simulation (LES) for jet noise predictions has been discussed in several publications. The vast majority of these studies are, however, restricted to fairly simple geometries and moderate Reynolds numbers flows. Recent studies have shown that LES-based methods can be used for realistic flows and complex geometries with promising results. With continuously increased computer capacity and with the possibility to perform computations in parallel on PC-clusters, the possibility of using LES for industrial applications is increasing. However, although, the complexity of configurations for which LES may be used is approaching that of a real jet engine, due to high demands for computational power and long turn-over times LES is still not feasible for industrial use. For low-noise nozzle design, engineering tools with short turn-over time, accurate enough for prediction of noise trends are therefore needed. In the development of such methods, LES can provide data suitable for method validation. In the present work, the high-subsonic flow in an axisymmetric coaxial nozzle/jet configuration is studied. Flowfield predictions obtained using an axisymmetric RANS solver for compressible flows and predicted acoustic signature obtained using a method based on RANS and Lighthill's acoustic analogy are compared with flowfield and radiated sound predictions obtained using LES combined with Kirchhoff surface integration. In the predicted flow statistics, the most noticeable difference between RANS and LES results is that the RANS calculation gives somewhat lower levels of turbulence kinetic energy in the shear layers in the near-nozzle regions and hence the LES jet mixes somewhat faster and thus the potential core region is shorter in this simulation.
Sound Produced by a Vortex Ring Interacting with an Aperture of Variable Radius
Authors: Howe M. S.
Published: September 2008

An analysis is made of the sound generated when a vortex ring approaches an aperture of time dependent radius in a thin rigid wall. This is possibly the simplest model problem for elucidating the acoustic significance of glottis oscillations in the production of voiced speech. The aperture is acoustically equivalent to a monopole source whose strength is determined by the unsteady volume flux induced by the vortex. The unsteady working of suction forces at the edge of a contracting aperture in an ideal fluid transforms the transmitted, positive acoustic pressure pulse predicted for a constant radius aperture into a large amplitude expansion wave. The suppression of large suction forces in a real fluid by viscosity is examined by the imposition of a Kutta condition, leading to vortex shedding and ‘jetting’ from the aperture. The shed vorticity is found to increase further the resistance of the closing aperture to the induced flux, and results in an expansion wave of greatly increased amplitude.
Trailing Edge Noise Measurements Using a Large Aperture Phased Array
Authors: Shannon Dan , Morris Scott C.
Published: September 2008

The primary objective of this study was to obtain measurements of the noise generated by flow over an asymmetric trailing edge in an Anechoic Wind Tunnel (AWT) using a large aperture 40 microphone acoustic array. The sound field was complicated by the presence of unwanted or “parasitic” noise caused by the operation of the AWT. The ability of the array to separate the parasitic noise from the desired sound source was determined through a series of calculations using simulated source data. The bias errors that are caused by these extraneous sources were determined for three different array post processing algorithms: delay-sum (time-domain), weighted beamforming (frequency-domain), and a Deconvolution Approach to Mapping of Acoustic Sources (DAMAS). The results indicate that each method had advantages/disadvantages that were dependent on frequency. As such, different beamforming methods were utilized over different frequency ranges in order to produce the best possible spectral representation of the trailing edge source.
Structural Analysis as Driver in Surface-Based Design Approaches
Authors: Schein Markus , Tessmann Oliver
Published: September 2008

This research argues for novel strategies to integrate structural analysis data in architectural design. Instead of a linear procedure of analysis, synthesis, evaluation and post-rationalization a synthesis/evaluation loop is installed which embeds structural analysis data as design driver from early on. The approach regards structural performance as one design criteria within a network of different requirements. An equilibrium of multiple parameters is aspired to instead of a single-parameter-optimum.

The research is conducted via a custom-made digital interface between 3d modelling software and an application for structural analysis of space frames. The information exchange provides the basis for successive strategies within a collaborative design process of spatial roof structures: negotiation of an overall form and a multi-dimensional improvement of space frame topologies by a Genetic Algorithm (GA).
Mouthguard Use in Match Play and Training in a Cohort of Professional Rugby League Players
Authors: Rayner Wendy
Published: September 2008

The main objective of this study was to compare mouthguard use in match play and contact training in professional rugby league players and to ascertain the reasons for any differences. A secondary objective was to determine the self-reported incidence of dental and/or oral injuries and when they occurred. Mouthguard use in contact training sessions was found to be very low compared to match play. The main reason found for this was that players were not worried about getting injured whilst training However, a considerable number of players had been injured during contact training sessions. Given their established protective role, the use of mouthguards in contact training and match play should be encouraged Players' attitudes towards mouthguard use while training should be addressed. Recommendations are made in light of the findings of the study as to how this could be achieved
Can Elite Tournament Professional Golfers Prevent Habitual Actions in Their Putting Actions?
Authors: Jenkins Simon
Published: September 2008

An experiment was designed to demonstrate the strength of habitual movements in golf putting and examined the immediate effect of instructing elite tournament professional golfers to execute a golf putt using different muscles than they normally do in order to prevent the movement of certain joints. In a study involving fifteen players on the PGA European Tour, it was found that players who usually use shoulder movement in their putting action were not able to prevent such movement when instructed to do so. Also, players who usually use wrist and hands movement in their putting action were not able to prevent such movement when instructed to do so Results were explained using notions about rigid coupling of degrees of freedom
The Relation between Physical Tests, Measures, and Clubhead Speed in Elite Golfers
Authors: Hellström John
Published: September 2008

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between selected physical tests and clubhead speed, and whether body mass should be considered when presenting the test results. Thirty-three male elite golfers (estimated skill range: Hcp +5 to 0, age 18–30 years) participated in the study. The following test categories were measured and compared to clubhead speed with Pearson r correlation: vertical jumps (squat jump, counter movement jump, and counter movement jumps with arm swing); body mass strength (bar dips, pull-ups and vertical sit-ups); one repetition maximal strength (1-RM) (left grip, right grip and squat); and sprint (10 and 20 m). The tests and measures significantly (p < 0.05) related to clubhead speed were body mass, all vertical jumps (peak power and jump height), sprint (mean power), right grip (mass), squat (mass), bar dips (repetitions x body mass), and vertical sit-ups (repetitions x body mass). These tests may be selected when players and coaches wish to analyse physical test results associated to clubhead speed. Peak power in vertical jumps is more strongly related to clubhead speed than jump height, but jump height may be used too. In sprint, mean power should be used for feedback instead of sprint time. Strength test results should be presented in absolute values (kg), not as relative strength. Body mass should be considered in vertical jumps, sprints, and body mass strength tests, but not in 1RM strength tests with external resistance.
Servant Leadership in Sport: A New Paradigm for Effective Coach Behavior
Authors: Rieke Micah , Hammermeister Jon , Chase Matthew
Published: September 2008

Coaches are searching for contemporary leadership models which resonate with the modern-day athlete. Many elements of the Servant Leadership model, such as trust, inclusion, humility and service, are well suited to enhanced coach behaviors with this cohort. The purpose of this study was to examine how coaches who were perceived by their athletes to possess “servant leader” characteristics were associated with their athletes' use of mental skills, motivation, satisfaction and performance Participants were 195 high-school basketball athletes from the Pacific Northwest in the USA. It was found that athletes who perceived their coach to possess servant leader qualities also displayed higher intrinsic motivation, were more task oriented, were more satisfied, were “mentally tougher,” and performed better than were athletes coached by non-servant leaders. Furthermore, results showed that high-school basketball athletes preferred the servant-leader coaching style to more traditional styles. Results suggest that coaches who use the methods advocated by the servant-leader model produce athletes with a healthier psychological profile for sport who also perform well.
Accuracy and Stability of the Coarse Time-Stepper for a Lattice Boltzmann Model
Authors: Vandekerckhove Christophe , Van Leemput Pieter , Roose Dirk
Published: September 2008

The equation-free framework for multiscale computing is built around the central idea of a coarse time-stepper, which is an approximate time integrator for the unavailable macroscopic model when only a microscopic simulator is given. In this paper, we study the numerical properties of the coarse time-stepper when a lattice Boltzmann model for one-dimensional diffusion is used as the microscopic simulator. We derive analytical expressions for the accuracy and stability of the coarse time-stepper, which allow us to study the influence of various aspects involved in its construction.
An Iterative Method for Solving a Class of Partial Differential Equation with Variable Coefficients
Authors: Wang Yulan
Published: September 2008

In this paper, the exact solution to partial differential equation with variable coefficients is obtained in reproducing kernel space. The approximate solution is given by using an iterative method and the finite section method. It is worthy to note that our method can be employed to solve singularly-boundary value problems of a nonlinear partial differential equation with variable coefficients. Some numerical examples show our method is effective and highly accurate.
Distributed Computing Techniques for Wireless Messaging Systems
Authors: Makoond B. , Khaddaj S. , Ong D. CC , Oudrhiri R. , Tunnicliffe M.
Published: September 2008

This paper considers the application of distributed computing techniques to mobile telecommunications and wireless messaging infrastructures particularly to Service Level Agreement (SLA) enforcement. It presents novel distributed techniques based on the application of InfiniBand technology over the RDMA channel Interface to develop a distributed Service Level Agreement and enforcement solution for the generalised mobile messaging infrastructure. The paper also reports on the construction of a distributed SLA application that is able to handle extremely high throughput and still provide the required data integrity. We developed an SLA quota management model, deployed across distributed servers that provide a comparison illustrating the aftermath of deploying the SLA enforcement solution over InfiniBand and Ethernet technologies respectively.
Optimal Auditing with Scoring: Theory and Application to Insurance Fraud
Authors: Dionne Georges , Giuliano Florence , Picard Pierre
Published: September 2008

This article makes a bridge between the theory of optimal auditing and the scoring methodology in an asymmetric information setting. Our application is meant for insurance claims fraud, but it can be applied to many other activities that use the scoring approach. Fraud signals are classified based on the degree to which they reveal an increasing probability of fraud. We show that the optimal auditing strategy takes the form of a “red flags strategy,” which consists in referring claims to a special investigative unit (SIU) when certain fraud indicators are observed. The auditing policy acts as a deterrence device, and we explain why it requires the commitment of the insurer and how it should affect the incentives of SIU staffs. The characterization of the optimal auditing strategy is robust to some degree of signal manipulation by defrauders as well as to the imperfect information of defrauders about the audit frequency. The model is calibrated with data from a large European insurance company. We show that it is possible to improve our results by separating different groups of insureds with different moral costs of fraud. Finally, our results indicate how the deterrence effect of the audit scheme can be taken into account and how it affects the optimal auditing strategy.
Social Preferences and Supply Chain Performance: An Experimental Study
Authors: Loch Christoph H. , Wu Yaozhong
Published: September 2008

Supply chain contracting literature has traditionally focused on aligning incentives for economically rational players. Recent work has hypothesized that social preferences, as distinct from economic incentives, may influence behavior in supply chain transactions. Social preferences refer to intrinsic concerns for the other party's welfare, reciprocating a history of a positive relationship, and intrinsic desires for a higher relative payoff compared with the other party's when status is salient. This article provides experimental evidence that social preferences systematically affect economic decision making in supply chain transactions. Specifically, supply chain parties deviate from the predictions provided by self-interested profit-maximization models, such that relationship preference promotes cooperation, individual performance, and high system efficiency, sustainable over time; whereas status preference induces tough actions and reduces both system efficiency and individual performance.
Refraining from Imitation: Professional Resistance and Limited Diffusion in a Financial Market
Authors: Jonsson Stefan
Published: September 2008

Why do some practices not spread? Although this is an important question for both diffusion theorists and those interested in institutional change, we know surprisingly little about the limitations on diffusion because most diffusion studies sample on successful diffusion. I address the question of why some practices fail to spread by introducing the concept of a “deviance discount.” A deviance discount is a systematic downgrading of the observed adoption performance of controversial practices, which limits the contagion of such practices. I test and find qualitative and quantitative support for my thesis in the product introduction behavior of Swedish mutual fund firms. My findings hold implications for diffusion theory and theories of endogenous institutional change.
The role of attention and immediate memory in vulnerability to interpersonal criticism during family transactions in schizophrenia
Authors: Kéri Szabolcs , Kelemen Oguz
Published: September 2008

Objective

Cognitive dysfunctions may represent vulnerability markers to psychosocial stress in schizophrenia. The purpose of this study was to investigate the possibility that cognitive deficits are associated with the emergence of unusual thoughts during a stressful family transaction.

Methods

The cognitive performance of 80 patients with schizophrenia was characterized by the five index scores of the repeatable brief assessment of neuropsychological status (RBANS) test battery (immediate and delayed memory, visuospatial/constructional functions, language, and attention). The patients and one of their family members participated in a 20‐minute interaction during which the number of relatives' harsh criticisms and the number of patients' unusual thoughts was measured.

Results

Regression analyses revealed that criticism together with attention/immediate memory best predicted the number of unusual thoughts (>25% of variance). In patients with poor attention/immediate memory, there was a significant positive relationship between the number of criticisms and unusual thoughts.

Conclusions

The results indicate that family criticism is related to thinking disturbances in patients with poor attention/immediate memory. The enhancement of these cognitive functions may increase resistance to psychosocial stress in schizophrenia.
Being similar versus being equal: Intergroup similarity moderates the influence of in‐group norms on discrimination and prejudice
Authors: Gabarrot Fabrice , Falomir‐Pichastor Juan M. , Mugny Gabriel
Published: September 2008

In two studies, we examined the influence of in‐group norms of anti‐ and pro‐discrimination on prejudice and discrimination as a function of intergroup similarity (Studies 1 and 2) and in‐group identification (Study 2). In a condition where there was no information about intergroup similarity (Study 1) or intergroup similarity was low (Study 2), prejudice and discrimination were lower when norms prescribe anti‐discrimination compared to pro‐discrimination. In contrast, when intergroup similarity was high, prejudice and discrimination were higher when the in‐group norm represents anti‐discrimination compared to pro‐discrimination. This pattern was most apparent among highly identified in‐group members (Study 2). The paradoxical effect of the anti‐discrimination norm in the high similarity condition is interpreted as a response to the threat this situation introduces to in‐group distinctiveness.
Everyone for themselves? A comparative study of crowd solidarity among emergency survivors
Authors: Drury John , Cocking Chris , Reicher Steve
Published: September 2008

Crowd behaviour in emergencies has previously been explained in terms of either ‘mass panic’ or strength of pre‐existing social bonds. The present paper reports results from a study comparing high‐ versus low‐identification emergency mass emergency survivors to test the interlinked claims (1) that shared identity in an emergency crowd enhances expressions of solidarity and reduces ‘panic’ behaviour and (2) that such a shared identity can arise from the shared experience of the emergency itself. Qualitative and descriptive quantitative analyses were carried out on interviews with 21 survivors of 11 emergencies. The analysis broadly supports these two claims. The study therefore points to the usefulness of a new approach to mass emergency behaviour, based on self‐categorization theory (SCT).
The Scottish Crime and Drug Enforcement Agency: From Common Police Service to ‘MACFBI’
Authors: Scott Kenneth B
Published: September 2008

On 1 April 2007, as a result of the implementation of the Police, Public Order and Criminal Justice (Scotland) Act 2006, a new national policing organisation called the Scottish Crime and Drug Enforcement Agency (SCDEA) was established. This took forward a process begun in 2001 when, as part of its contribution to the ‘war against drugs’, the Scottish Executive set up the Scottish Drug Enforcement Agency (SDEA) to focus across Scotland specifically on drug crime. The SCDEA is an expanded and, potentially, more powerful version of SDEA, which has led to its being popularly described as ‘the Scottish FBI’. The purpose of this article is to examine the evolution and development of the SCDEA and to discuss some of the key issues arising from the efforts to create a ‘MacFBI’ in Scottish policing.
Linking Police Culture, Leadership and Partnership-Working
Authors: Coliandris Geoff , Rogers Colin
Published: September 2008

The police organisation is undergoing substantial change to satisfy the diverse demands placed upon it. In order for it to be successful in implementing these changes, police leaders need to understand that this change will take place within a police culture and that this complex entity will inevitably have an impact on working relations with partner organisations. Exploring and understanding concepts such as the police organisational culture, the difference between multi- and inter-agency partnership working, and how leadership is affected by and also affects these concepts is an important area if change is to be successfully introduced.
Measuring Crime Reduction: Geographical Effects
Authors: Heaton Robert
Published: September 2008

The preponderance of evidence is that the effect of policing upon volume crime rates is marginal, compared with the influence of socio-economic conditions. However, several focused policing styles have been brought into use since the early 1990s with the explicit aim of reducing crime levels, usually by the concentration of efforts upon repeat offenders or repeat victimisation. Moreover, further studies suggest that policing and wider crime reduction efforts may be effective when designed to tackle local problems. This study aims to go some way towards the reconciliation of these viewpoints. It examines the notion that local effectiveness is dissipated, as the geographical unit of measurement of crime levels is widened. Crime levels in an ‘intelligence-led’ police force are considered in relation to the imprisonment of prolific burglary offenders. The conclusion is reached that volume crime reduction is an essentially local activity which should be reflected in performance indicator.
TaqMan-Based Real-Time PCR for Genotyping Common Polymorphisms of Haptoglobin (HP1 and HP2)
Authors: Soejima Mikiko , Koda Yoshiro
Published: September 2008

Background: The haptoglobin gene (HP) has 2 common codominant alleles (HP1 and HP2) that account for 3 phenotypes. HP2 is generated by a 1.7-kb intragenic duplication of HP1.

Methods: We used the real-time TaqMan PCR system to develop an effective method for HP genotyping that allows us to evaluate the relative number of copies of the HP2 allele–specific junctional region of the 1.7-kb gene duplication (HP2) by comparing the intensity of the amplification signals to those of the HP promoter region (HP5′), which was used as the internal control. The difference in threshold cycles (ΔCt) between HP2 and HP5′ was used to assess HP2 copy number. In addition, the assay detects the HP deletion (HPdel) at the same time.

Results: The mean 2−ΔΔCt values (the HP2/HP5′ ratio) obtained from 123 samples of known HP genotypes clearly differentiated 2 nonoverlapping intervals that correspond to the HP genotypes. Ratios for HP2/HP1 samples ranged from 0.34–0.50, HP2/HP2 samples ranged from 0.79–0.98, and the absence of an HP2 allele signal was defined as HP1/HP1. We simultaneously detected HPdel. The assay produces results in <1 h.

Conclusions: The TaqMan-based real-time PCR method was successfully applied to HP genotyping. The method is easy to use in a molecular diagnosis laboratory, and its robustness and rapidity make it suitable for high-throughput analysis of large populations.
Canadian Evidence on the Constructive Capitalization of Operating Leases*
Authors: Durocher Sylvain
Published: September 2008

One type of relevant ex ante research supporting the accounting standard‐setting process is the study of a proposed standard's impact on reported figures. The International Accounting Standards Board recently decided to review the lease accounting standard, which will naturally involve consideration of the G4 + 1 recommendation to capitalize all noncancellable lease contracts, including operating leases. National evidence of the impact of the G4 + 1 proposals provides feedback for the international standard‐setter. This study developed and used a refined constructive capitalization method, in which company‐specific assumptions — interest rate, total/expired/remaining lives of leased assets, and tax rate — were used to compute the impact of operating‐lease capitalization on key financial indicators for a sample of Canadian public companies. The results indicate that capitalizing operating leases would lead to the recognition of important additional assets and liabilities on the balance sheet. It would therefore significantly increase the debt‐to‐asset ratio and significantly decrease the current ratio. These results were noted across all industry segments in the sample. Income statement effects were generally less material. Significant impacts on return on assets, return on equity, and / or earnings per share were noted in only three industry segments: merchandising and lodging, oil and gas, and financial services. Intercompany comparability would not be affected overall nor within industries, because of similar rankings for each financial indicator before and after operating‐lease capitalization.
Reference ranges for neuroprotein S-100B: from infants to adolescents
Authors: Castellani Christoph , Stojakovic Tatjana , Cichocki Martin , Scharnagl Hubert , Erwa Wolfgang , Gutmann Anton , Weinberg Annelie-Martina
Published: September 2008

: Diagnosis and treatment of mild traumatic brain injuries in children are especially problematic. At present, computed tomography (CT) is the standard method to identify if patients with intracranial lesions require inpatient monitoring. CT, however, involves exposure to high doses of X-rays, which should be avoided if possible. In adults, the serum level of neuroprotein S-100B has already been proven to be effective for the selection of patients requiring CT. The aim of the present study was to determine reference ranges for serum S-100B in a large number of healthy children.

: All patients younger than 18 years with no recent history of head injuries presenting for routine operations were included in the study.

: A total of 394 patients were evaluated. In children from 3 to 18 years an upper reference level of 0.16 μg/L was determined. There was a strong inverse relation between age and S-100B in patients younger than 3 years. As the values in this age group were scattered and the number of cases limited (n=65), no reference range could be calculated.

: This study provides S-100B reference ranges for pediatric patients based on the largest group of healthy pediatric patients yet analyzed.

Clin Chem Lab Med 2008;46:1296–9.
Ribosomal DNA intergenic spacer of indoor wood-decay fungi
Authors: Schmidt Olaf , Moreth Ute
Published: September 2008

Indoor wood-decay fungi are economically very important. Approximately half of the total damage caused by indoor fungi in Germany is caused by species of the Coniophoraceae. The sequence of the intergenic spacer (IGS) region of the ribosomal DNA was elucidated with the following fungi of this family: Serpula lacrymans (true dry rot fungus), S. himantioides (wild merulius), Meruliporia incrassata (North American dry rot fungus), Leuco-gyrophana pinastri (mine dry rot fungus), Coniophora puteana (brown cellar fungus), and C. marmorata (marmoreus cellar fungus). The IGS length ranges between 2584 and 3785 bp and consists of the short IGS 1 (253–440 bp), the 5S rDNA (118 bp) and the long IGS 2 (2193–3310 bp). IGS 1 is phylogenetically less informative for the investigated Coniophoraceae species. 5S rDNA is transcribed in the reverse direction. IGS 2 contains extended repeat blocks of copies of different length. Intraspecific length polymorphism as a result of different copy number occurs in M. incrassata and L. pinastri. In combination with previous results, the full-length sequence of the rDNA repeat unit is available for important indoor wood-decay fungi. The various rDNA regions can now be used for future identification of unknown sequences by BLAST and also for phylogenetic studies.
Formation of the crystal structure of Lyocell fiber during drying 2nd ICC 2007, Tokyo, Japan, October 25–29, 2007
Authors: Wei Mengyuan , Yang Gesheng , Tian Yaoxin , Shao Huili , Hu Xuechao
Published: September 2008

Lyocell fiber, a new type of regenerated cellulose fiber, is produced by an environmentally friendly dry-wet spinning process without hazardous byproducts. In order to prepare high performance Lyocell fiber, the formation of crystal structure of never dried (n.d.) Lyocell fiber and the difference of crystal structures between n.d. Lyocell fiber and rewetted Lyocell fiber was investigated by wide angle X-ray diffractometry. The results showed that the supramolecular order of n.d. Lyocell fiber with high water content was not fully developed and, accordingly, the paracrystalline moiety of the of fibers was very high. The crystallinity and lateral order increased with the decreasing water content. When water content of n.d. Lyocell fiber was less than 35%, most paracrystalline structures in the fiber turned into crystalline structures. On the other hand, it was found that once the crystal structure of Lyocell fiber was formed, it could not be destroyed by rewetting. This finding indicates that only the crystal structure of Lyocell fiber could be changed. By heat treatment of n.d. Lyocell fiber, the mechanical properties of the fiber were improved effectively.