bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
American Society of Clinical Oncology Statement on Minimum Standards and Exemplary Attributes of Clinical Trial Sites
Authors: Zon Robin , Meropol Neal J. , Catalano Robert B. , Schilsky Richard L.
Published: April 2008

Purpose

To describe both minimum requirements for a site conducting quality clinical trials and attributes of an exemplary site.

Methods

Minimum requirements and exemplary attributes were selected based on literature review, prevailing regulatory requirements, and consensus among a group of community and academic clinical researchers.

Results

To provide guidance to oncologists who wish to conduct patient-oriented research, recommendations are made to assist in the development and implementation of high-quality research programs with the priority of protecting the welfare and rights of trial participants. A quality research site complies with the International Conference on Harmonisation (ICH) Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines, the accepted international ethical and scientific quality standards for designing, conducting, recording, and reporting trials involving human participants. Recognizing that many research sites conduct clinical trials in compliance with accepted GCP standards, supplemental attributes of an exemplary research site that exceed the GCP criteria are also described. These attributes include diversification of clinical trial mix, high accrual activity, participation in the trial development process, maintenance of high educational standards, quality assurance, multidisciplinary involvement in the clinical trial process, and promotion of clinical trial awareness programs.

Conclusion

Meeting the minimum criteria ensures conduct of quality clinical trials; however, some sites may wish to incorporate value-added attributes to exceed GCP compliance. These attributes are proposed as performance goals rather than requirements, recognizing that all sites conducting research will not necessarily meet each attribute but may still conduct high-quality clinical trials.
Internal combustion engine sound-based fault detection and diagnosis using adaptive line enhancers
Authors: Lee S-K , Kim S J
Published: April 2008

In an internal combustion engine, the impulsive sounds are very often radiated owing to the faults of the engine. Thus it is important for a noise, vibration, and harshness engineer to detect and analyse impulsive sound signals for both fault diagnoses. However, it is often difficult to detect and identify impulsive signals because of interfering signals such as those due to engine firing, harmonics of crankshaft speed, and broadband noise components. These interferences hinder the early detection of faults and improvement of sound quality. In order to overcome this difficulty, a two-stage adaptive line enhancer which is capable of enhancing impulsive signals embedded in background noise is developed. This method is used to pre-process signals prior to time—frequency analysis via a bilinear methods such as the Wigner—Ville distribution and the Choi—Williams distribution.
Improving the durability of automobile suspension systems by optimizing the elastomeric bushing compliance
Authors: Kang B J , Kim N W , Kim J H , Lee Y H , Sin H-C
Published: April 2008

The durability of the suspension system is a critical component in the development of a vehicle because it is consistently and directly exposed to dynamic loads while the vehicle is in motion. In most cases, attempts are made to improve the durability of a vehicle suspension system by changing the shapes of its parts and components. However, the authors propose to improve the overall durability performance of a vehicle suspension system by modifying the compliance of the elastomeric bushings, which pivotally connect the lower control arm to the vehicle frame. It is relatively easy and cost effective to change the compliance of the bushing components because they are made of rubber or elastomeric materials. The following procedure was used for the present analysis. Firstly, dynamic loads were obtained based on a multi-body dynamic analysis while the vehicle was driven on a virtual proving ground test. Secondly, the stress distribution of the vehicle suspension system was calculated using finite element analysis to obtain an optimal combination of the elastomeric bushing compliance and provide the maximum improvement to the stress distribution on the basis of a robust design approach. Finally, the durability performance of each component in the vehicle suspension system was evaluated using quasi-static durability analyses. The fatigue life of the optimal model was improved by 36—39 per cent when the knuckle and lower control arm passed over bumps, and by 30—41 per cent when they passed over potholes. The proposed optimal design process to improve the elastomeric bushing compliance made it easy to evaluate and improve the durability performance of the vehicle suspension system in the initial stages of the vehicle development process.
Non-linear and chaos characteristics of heart sound time series
Authors: Li B-B , Yuan Z-F
Published: April 2008

Analysis of chaotic time series is common in many fields of science and engineering. It arises primarily from massive interactions between the many different parts of a non-linear system or in non-linear physical phenomena that are intrinsically complex. It is important to analyse the time series of these non-linear dynamic systems based on chaos theory. In recent years, many researchers on heart dynamics have demonstrated that chaos really exists in heart movements. In this study the non-linear and chaos characteristics are investigated and the fractal dimensions (FDs) and largest Lyapunov exponents (LLE) of the heart sound time series are calculated. First, the C—C method is used to estimate the time delay and embedding dimensions which are used to reconstruct the phase spaces. Then, the FDs and LLEs of the different heart sound signals are calculated and analysed, including the healthy heart sound, splitting of the second heart sound, mitral incompetence, and abnormal aortic shrinkage. From the results, the non-linear and chaotic characteristics in heart dynamic movement are found, and the results of LLEs show that the healthy heart has more obvious chaotic movements than abnormal movements.
Finite element analysis of intramedullary devices: The effect of the gap between the implant and the bone
Authors: Simpson D J , Brown C J , Yettram A L , Procter P , Andrew G J
Published: April 2008

This paper examines the interaction interface between the implant and the bone for an intramedullary femoral nailing system using a finite element (FE) model and specifically considers the hypothesis that the local geometry at the interface is significant to the resulting localized contact stress between the medial and lateral aspect of nail and endosteum. Contact mechanics algorithms are used in the FE modelling technique that can be developed to deal with any form of intramedullary device for which contact at the bone—implant interface is important.

Global stiffness data from the FE model are compared with available data from an experiment carried out on a construct of the bone and the device that uses intramedullary femoral nails. Acceptable agreement is obtained.

The results demonstrate that the mechanical interface between the implant and the bone is significantly affected by the gap geometry and magnitude. In particular, larger gaps lead to greater concentrations of stress on the medial side, while the distribution of stress is more uniform at the lateral contacts. Furthermore, the results show that the gap can have a marked effect on the stresses that occur on the fracture plane.
Mechanical properties and in-vivo performance of calcium phosphate cement—chitosan fibre composite
Authors: Lian Q , Li D-C , He J-K , Wang Z
Published: April 2008

Self-hardened calcium phosphate cement (CPC) sets to form hydroxyapatite and possesses excellent osteoconductivity. However, lack of macroporosity and low strength constrain its application in bone tissue engineering. Recent studies have incorporated various fibres into CPC to improve its mechanical strength. The present approach focused on the reinforcement of CPC with chitosan fibres and then the effects of the fibre structure on the mechanical properties and macrochannels formation characteristics of CPC—fibre composite were investigated. Chitosan fibres of diameter 200 μm were used to fabricate two types of three-dimensional structure, which were then coated with collagen and incorporated into CPC to fabricate CPC—fibre implants with a fibre volume content of 5 per cent. The compressive strength of the CPC—fibre implant was 33 MPa when the strain was 2.4 per cent, which is fourfold higher than that of the CPC control. Nine cylindrical implants including six CPC—fibre implants were implanted in the bone defects of nine dogs and were then post-operatively observed. After 20 weeks in vivo, new callus from the healthy tissue of the defect entirely integrated with the CPC—fibre implant and new bone was formed as the implant degraded. Scanning electronic microscopy images indicated that macrochannels were formed in the CPC—fibre implants with the degradation of fibres, but only micropores with a scale of less than 50 μm could be observed in the CPC control. Briefly, the incorporation of a suitable chitosan-fibre structure into a CPC implant not only could improve its mechanical properties but also facilitated the bone repair process in vivo.
A mechanical comparison of high-flexion and conventional total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Barink M , De Waal Malefijt M , Celada P , Vena P , Van Kampen A , Verdonschot N
Published: April 2008

The question addressed in this study was whether high-flexion total knee arthroplasty (TKA) designs improve the mechanical behaviour of TKAs in high flexion and whether they maintain the mechanical performance of conventional TKAs at normal flexion angles.

A finite element study was performed in which the mechanical behaviour of the conventional Sigma RP and the new high-flexion Sigma RP-F were compared, during a dynamic simulation of a high-flexion squatting activity. Forces, stresses, and contact positions were calculated during different stages of the simulations.

In general, higher stresses were found with larger flexion angles for both designs. Mechanical parameters were similar in normal flexion. In high flexion, lower stress and deformation values were found for the high-flexion Sigma RP-F, except for the contact stress at the post of the insert.

This study confirms that a high-flexion design can improve mechanical behaviour at high-flexion without changing the performance in normal flexion. Hence, although a high-flexion TKA may show a similar or better performance in comparison with a conventional TKA, high-flexion activities still cause an increase in the implant stress levels. Therefore, the patient's demand for large flexion angles may reduce the longevity of TKA implants.
Can Cheap Generic Statins Achieve National Cholesterol Lowering Targets?
Authors: Petty Duncan , Lloyd David
Published: April 2008

Objectives

The Department of Health in England recommend that simvastatin and pravastatin should be prescribed in at least 69% of statin prescriptions in primary care on the assumption that these drugs (and at doses prescribed) are as effective as alternatives. We aimed to identify whether primary care trusts (PCTs) that used a high proportion of simvastatin and pravastatin performed as well on the Quality and Outcome Framework (QOF) targets related to cholesterol as those PCTs that used less.

Methods

QOF data were obtained for all PCTs for 2005-2006. National prescribing data for statins was analysed for the same time period. The square of the Pearson correlation was used to assess the association between the two.

Results

The average PCT values for the three QOF indicators for CHD, stroke and diabetes were 78% (range 66-88%), 72% (58-82%) and 79% (67-88%), respectively. The percentage use of simvastatin and pravastatin by PCTs varied from 18-84%, with a mean of 57%. There was no evidence of any association between the use of simvastatin and pravastatin as a percentage of all statin items and success in achieving the QOF targets.

Conclusions

PCTs that had a high proportion of simvastatin and pravastatin use were just as successful achieving cholesterol targets for patients with coronary heart disease, diabetes and stroke as those that used more atorvastatin, rosuvastatin or fluvastatin. This supports the policy to use the less expensive generic statins.
World Class Commissioning: A Health Policy Chimera?
Authors: Ham Chris
Published: April 2008

The health reforms in England have entered a phase in which greater emphasis is being placed on market-like mechanisms. The ability of the commissioners of care to negotiate on equal terms with providers will be of critical importance in the emerging market. The government has set out plans to develop ‘world class commissioning’ and this essay reviews experience in Europe, New Zealand and the United States to understand what is involved in working towards this goal. The evidence reviewed shows that in no system is commissioning done consistently well and highlights the obstacles to the development of world class commissioning. The reasons for this centre on the complexity of health care and the inherent difficulty of commissioning health services in publicly financed systems. Commissioners will need to be able to access a range of expertise and are likely to incur significant expenditure in so doing. There are warning signs from other systems of health reforms that result in adversarial and legalistic approaches, and do not give sufficient attention to relational contracting. Even if world class commissioning is developed, it may fall short of its potential in the absence of other changes in the design of the reforms, such as autonomous providers and appropriate payment systems. In view of these challenges, a more promising alternative would be to develop competing integrated systems.
Doctors, Lies and the Addiction Bureaucracy
Authors: Dalrymple Theodore
Published: April 2008

Almost everything you know about heroin addiction is wrong. Not only is it wrong, but it is obviously wrong. Heroin is not highly addictive; withdrawal from it is not medically serious; addicts do not become criminals to feed their habit; addicts do not need any medical assistance to stop taking heroin; and contrary to received wisdom, heroin addiction most certainly is a moral or spiritual problem. A literary tradition dating back to De Quincey and Coleridge, and continuing up to the deeply sociopathic William Burroughs and beyond, has misled all Western societies for generations about the nature of heroin addiction. These writers’ self-dramatizing and dishonest accounts of their own addiction have been accepted uncritically, and have been more influential by far in forming public attitudes than the whole of pharmacological science. As a result, a self-serving, self-perpetuating and completely useless medical bureaucracy has been set up to deal with the problem.
Category Pricing with State-Dependent Utility
Authors: Dubé Jean-Pierre , Hitsch Günter J. , Rossi Peter E. , Vitorino Maria Ana
Published: April 2008

There is substantial literature documenting the presence of state-dependent utility with packaged goods data. Typically, a form of brand loyalty is detected whereby there is a higher probability of purchasing the same brand as has been purchased in the recent past. The economic significance of the measured loyalty remains an open question. We consider the category pricing problem and demonstrate that the presence of loyalty materially affects optimal pricing. The prices of higher quality products decline relative to those of lower quality when loyalty is introduced into the model. Given the well-known problems with the confounding of state dependence and consumer heterogeneity, loyalty must be measured in a model which allows for an unknown and possibly highly nonnormal distribution of heterogeneity. We implement a highly flexible model of heterogeneity using multivariate mixtures of normals in a hierarchical choice model. We use an Euler equations approach to the solution of the dynamic pricing problem which allows us to consider a very large number of consumer types.
Call Center Outsourcing Contracts Under Information Asymmetry
Authors: Hasija Sameer , Pinker Edieal J. , Shumsky Robert A.
Published: April 2008

In this paper, we examine contracts to coordinate the capacity decision of a vendor who has been hired by a client to provide call center support. We consider a variety of contracts, all based on our observations of contracts used by one large vendor. We examine the role of different contract features such as pay-per-time, pay-per-call, service-level agreements, and constraints on service rates and abandonment. We show how different combinations of these contract features enable client firms to better manage vendors when there is information asymmetry about worker productivity. In particular, we focus on how different contracts can coordinate by yielding the system-optimal capacity decision by the vendor and consider how profits are allocated between the client and the vendor.
Research Note—Testing File Sharing's Impact on Music Album Sales in Cities
Authors: Liebowitz Stan J.
Published: April 2008

Using a data set including album sales, Internet penetration, and various demographic measures for 99 American cities over the period 1998–2003, this paper empirically examines the extent to which file sharing has caused the U.S. decline in sound-recording sales over that period. Also examined is the impact of the Internet on entertainment activities so as to help cleanse the Internet penetration coefficient of that impact. The conclusion from this analysis is that file sharing appears to have caused the entire decline in record sales and appears to have vitiated what otherwise would have been growth in the industry.
Institutional Logics or Agency Costs: The Influence of Corporate Governance Models on Business Group Restructuring in Emerging Economies
Authors: Chung Chi-Nien , Luo Xiaowei
Published: April 2008

Business groups, the leading economic players in emerging economies, have responded to the market-oriented transition primarily through corporate restructuring. Agency theory predicts that acquisition and divestiture would serve the interests of dominant families and foreign investors in different ways. Further, dominant families, foreign investors from shareholder-based countries, and foreign investors from stakeholder-based countries each operate under distinct institutional logics of appropriate restructuring strategies. We test hypotheses about agency and institutional mechanisms using large business groups in Taiwan between 1986 and 1998 as our empirical example. We find that, consistent with both mechanisms, family-controlled business groups are less likely to divest of unrelated businesses. However, the institutional logics mechanism can better explain the relative lack of unrelated acquisition in family-controlled groups and the difference in divestiture between groups with more shareholder-based foreign investment and those with more stakeholder-based investment. Our study contributes to the neo-institutional perspective of corporate restructuring and strategic management in general by empirically separating the two mechanisms and examining organizational responses to conflicting institutional logics. Our study also adds to the understanding of business group restructuring in emerging economies.
Vehicle Scheduling and Routing with Drivers' Working Hours
Authors: Goel Asvin
Published: April 2008

Regulations regarding drivers' working hours often have a big impact on total transit times, i.e., the time required for driving periods, breaks, and rest periods. Although of particular importance for many real-life applications, they have received only very little attention in the vehicle routing literature. This paper describes the new regulations for drivers' working hours in the European Union that entered into force in April 2007. According to the new regulations, motor carriers must organise the work of drivers in such a way that drivers are able to comply with the respective regulations and are made liable for infringements committed by the drivers. This paper shows how motor carriers can schedule driving periods, breaks, rest periods, and handling activities, and presents a large neighbourhood search algorithm capable of generating vehicle tours complying with the new regulations.
Profiling of Heterogeneous Soil Using the Nuclear-Density Cone Penetrometer
Authors: Karthikeyan Muthusamy , Soon Tan Thiam
Published: April 2008

This paper describes a series of experimental investigations conducted to investigate and interpret the density profiles obtained by a nuclear-density cone penetrometer (ND-CP) used in the characterization of a highly heterogeneous lumpy fill. The key features involved in the interpretation of these wet density profiles, termed “signatures” in this paper, were discussed. First, it was established that the maximum radius of the influence zone for the ND-CP used in the present study is about 23.6 cm radius, and this parameter decreases with increasing density of the material. It was also established that the ND-CP measurement provides the average wet density of the composite soil within the measuring volume. The signatures of wet density profiles for layered soil and lumpy fills were also investigated so as to improve the interpretation of the actual soil profile. Backscatter and linear mixture theoretical models were adapted and applied to the ND-CP to provide a framework for this interpretation of the signatures of wet density profiles. A back analysis of a set of lumpy fill results obtained from the actual field tests was also conducted and the results demonstrated that the signature of wet density profiles obtained from the ND-CP is useful for identifying the zones of the soil occupying the big clay lumps and initial inter-lump voids, something that is very difficult to establish without the use of ND-CP and the technique to carry out the interpretation.
A Miniature Cone for Measuring the Slump of Soil-Bentonite Cutoff Wall Backfill
Authors: Malusis Michael A. , Evans Jeffrey C. , McLane Michael H. , Woodward Nikki R.
Published: April 2008

Measurement of slump for soil-bentonite (SB) cutoff wall backfill using a standard ASTM C143-00 slump cone is widely employed to design SB backfill for workability and to evaluate field backfill quality during cutoff wall construction. The standard cone is particularly suitable for field testing, where large backfill quantities are available, but is less practical for laboratory testing of backfills during design. This paper describes the development and evaluation of a miniature slump cone that requires only ∼16 % of the backfill volume required for the standard cone. Results of slump tests performed on three model SB backfills with different solid compositions indicate that the miniature cone provides reproducibility similar to that given by the standard cone when the backfills are prepared to a standard slump of 100 mm to 200 mm. The empirical relationship between standard slump (SS) and miniature slump (SM) for all three model backfills is represented accurately by a single linear expression (i.e., SS=60+1.8SM, where SS and SM are in millimetres) that is nearly identical to the predicted correlation given by an analytical slump cone model (i.e., SS=64+1.8SM) for the range 100⩽SS⩽200 mm.
Track Detector Measurements in RPV of WWER-1000 Mock-Up in the LR-0 Reactor
Authors: Ošmera B. , Pošta S. , Karpunin N. I. , Lomakin S. S.
Published: April 2008

The fission rates measurements were carried out with track detectors in the WWER-1000 mock-up assembled in the experimental reactor LR-0.

The 238U and 236U isotopes with the fission energy thresholds approximately 1.5 MeV and 0.8 MeV, respectively, were used. The tracks were counted by means of a photomicroscope with a digital camera controlled by a PC with corresponding software. The fission rate ratio of 236U and 238U has been evaluated in different measuring points as well as the fast neutron fluxes attenuation factors. The correction for photo fission has been included. The results obtained with different techniques were compared: the fast flux above 0.5 MeV was measured absolutely with a stilbene detector.
An Evaluation of Perceptual Experience of Skiers Using Quantitative Image Processing
Authors: Krauss David A. , Lieberman Daniel H. , Grossman Helene , Ray Rose , Scher Irving
Published: April 2008

We applied the principles of visual perception, light, and optics to quantify the influence of ambient sunlight on the ability of skiers and snowboarders to perceive ground contours on a ski slope. To this end, we systematically measured the visibility of the terrain on ski runs under a variety of lighting conditions at Mammoth Mountain in California. Recreational skiers, snowboarders, and ski patrol members were surveyed to determine their subjective ratings of visibility. These subjective visibility ratings for various weather/lighting conditions were compared to quantified on-slope visibility measurements that were obtained using quantitative contrast and luminance measurements. The preliminary results support the objective measure as a tool to objectively quantify on-slope visibility and suggest additional cues skiers/snowboarders may be using to assess visibility. The methodology presented in this paper provides a first step in using software-based image analysis as a tool to predict conditions under which the likelihood of injuries may increase. Ultimately, resorts could use these data to develop methods of enhancing visibility on poorly lit runs before injuries occur.
Determination of Price Reduction Factors for Density-Deficient Asphalt Pavements
Authors: Kim Y. Richard , Lee S. Joon , Seo Youngguk , El-Haggan Omar
Published: April 2008

This paper presents the research undertaken for the development of price reduction factors for density-deficient asphalt pavements. Performance characteristics included in this study are fatigue cracking and rutting. The following laboratory tests were performed on two North Carolina Superpave mixtures with varying air void contents: (1) axial compression dynamic modulus tests for modulus determination; (2) indirect tension tests for fatigue performance evaluation; (3) triaxial repeated load permanent deformation tests for rutting evaluation; and (4) accelerated pavement tests on laboratory pavement slabs for fatigue and rutting evaluation using the third-scale Model Mobile Loading Simulator (MMLS3). Air void models for the dynamic modulus, fatigue cracking, and rutting were developed using the laboratory test data. These models and the results from the MMLS3 testing were used to develop the price reduction factors for density-deficient asphalt mixtures. In order to determine the effect of deficient density of hot-mix asphalt (HMA) on the performance of asphalt pavement as a system, a computer program called AP4 (Asphalt Pavement Performance Prediction Program) was developed. The algorithm adopted in AP4 for the damage calculation is based on the incremental damage concept and is very similar to that used in the National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP) 1-37A Mechanistic-Empirical Pavement Design Guide. This program allows the determination of the service life for fatigue cracking and rutting based on the inputs of air void contents in all the HMA layers. Case studies of five density-deficient pavements were conducted, and the price reduction factors were determined.
An Introduction to Service Choreographies (Servicechoreographien – eine Einführung)
Authors: Decker Gero , Kopp Oliver , Barros Alistair
Published: April 2008

Service oriented architecture (SOA) is an architectural style for building software systems based on services. Especially in those scenarios where services implement business processes, complex conversations between the services occur. Service choreographies are a means to capture all interaction obligations and constraints from a global perspective. This article introduces choreographies as an important artifact for SOA, compares them to service orchestrations and surveys existing languages for modeling them.
Die Rolle von Features und Aspekten in der Softwareentwicklung (The Role of Features and Aspects in Software Development)
Authors: Apel Sven
Published: April 2008

Feature-orientierte Programmierung (FOP) und Aspekt-orientierte Programmierung (AOP) sind komplementäre Technologien. Obwohl beide auf die Modularität von so genannten querschneidenden Belangen abzielen, so tun sie dies auf unterschiedliche Art und Weise. Im Rahmen der Arbeit wurde beobachtet, dass FOP und AOP kombiniert werden können, um ihre individuellen Schwächen zu überwinden. Die Arbeit schlägt mit Aspekt-basierten Featuremodulen und Aspektverfeinerung zwei Techniken zur Symbiose von FOP und AOP vor. Beide Techniken werden in einer Fallstudie evaluiert und entsprechende Programmierrichtlinien zum Einsatz von FOP und AOP werden abgeleitet. Schlussendlich wird mittels der Analyse von acht AspectJ-Programmen unterschiedlicher Größe die Frage beantwortet, wie Implementierungsmechanismen der FOP und der AOP heutzutage Verwendung finden.
Concurrent Gas-cap and Oil-rim Production: The Swing Gas Option
Authors: Uwaga - Anthony O. , Lawal Kazeem A.
Published: April 2008

Thin oil columns overlain by free gas and underlain by water pose serious challenges for completion and production. For such columns sandwiched between a sizeable gas cap and weak aquifer, gas coning usually limits oil production below commercial rates. For reservoirs with developable oil rim, the strategies of simultaneous oil and gas production as well as gas-cap blowdown after oil recovery, have been studied and implemented. Where a gas market is available, the choice of strategy is usually dictated by optimisation of reservoir energy and earlyrevenue from gas monetisation.

This paper investigates feasibility of intermittent production of the gascap with continuous oil production. A three-dimensional simulation study was performed for a gas-cap driven oil-rim reservoir having the primary objective of producing oil and a secondary objective of making up occasional gas supply shortfalls, the swing gas option. Key factors such as gas offtake rate, offtake frequency and the period to sustain each offtake cycle were examined. Impacts of these factors on oil recovery, total hydrocarbon recovery and project economics were evaluated. While the study indicates feasibility of swing gas production, reservoir and fluid uncertainties are important issues that must be properly managed. For these, adequate reservoir management and production practices are recommended.
Online Biochemical Oxygen Demand Monitoring for Wastewater Process Control—Full‐Scale Studies at Los Angeles Glendale Wastewater Plant, California
Authors: Iranpour Reza , Zermeno Miguel
Published: April 2008

The main objective of this investigation is to determine whether or not it would be feasible to use the measured values of biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) of wastewater obtained by an online instrument at the Los Angeles/Glendale Water Reclamation Plant (California) for controlling its activated sludge process. This investigation is part of a project to develop online BOD monitoring for process control in the City of Los Angeles wastewater treatment plants. Tests studied the Siepmann und Teutscher GmbH (ISCO‐STIP Inc., Lincoln, Nebraska) BIOX‐1010, which uses a bioreactor containing a culture of microbes from the wastewater to measure soluble BOD in 2 minutes. This rapid approximation to the operation of secondary treatment allows anticipation of system response. Calibration measurements allow the operators to find a conversion factor for the instrument's microprocessor to compute values of BOD that agree well with the standard 5‐day BOD (BOD 5) measurement, despite the differences in the details of the two testing methods. This instrument has recently been used at other wastewater treatment plants, at a number of airports in Europe and the United States to monitor runway runoff, and is also being used on waste streams at an increasing number of food processing plants.     A comparison was made between the plant influent BOD values obtained by the BIOX‐1010 online monitor from the end of August, 2000, to late January, 2001, and the individual and average values obtained for the same period using the standard BOD 5, 20°C test, to determine the effectiveness of the Biox‐1010 to identify shock loads and their duration. Individual BOD estimates and averages over periods of overly high biological loads (shock loads) were compared, and the instrument readings were evaluated for their effectiveness in detecting shock loads. The results were highly satisfactory, so the instrument was used to trigger a shock‐load warning alarm since late September, 2000. This allowed flow diversion and temporary storage to prevent process upsets.
Effects of Suburban Land Use on Phosphorus Fractions and Speciation in the Upper Peruque Creek, Eastern Missouri
Authors: Keller S. , Zhang T. Q. , Webb S. , Brugam R. , Johnson K. , Lin Z.‐Q.
Published: April 2008

This field study was conducted to explore the spatial and seasonal changes in total phosphorus and fraction distribution in relation to land uses. Water samples were collected biweekly at four sampling locations, which represented different potential phosphorus sources along the Upper Peruque Creek in Eastern Missouri. Total phosphorus concentrations of >0.8 mg/L appeared sporadically at site 2, downstream of a small community, with an average of 0.82 ± 0.14 mg/L in fall. Particulate phosphorus accounted for approximately 80% of total phosphorus at all sampling sites, except for site 2, where approximately 50 to 75% of dissolved phosphorus was often observed. Approximately 71 and 85% of total phosphorus in the sediment was in the form of iron(III) phosphate at the headwaters and downstream sites, respectively; 29 and 15% was in the form of phytic acid at the two sites. Land uses affect the total phosphorus concentration and alternate phosphorus fraction and speciation in the creek.
Estimation of Autotrophic Maximum Specific Growth Rate Constant—Experience from the Long‐Term Operation of a Laboratory‐Scale Sequencing Batch Reactor System
Authors: Su Yu‐Min , Makinia Jacek , Pagilla Krishna R.
Published: April 2008

The autotrophic maximum specific growth rate constant, μ A,max, is the critical parameter for design and performance of nitrifying activated sludge systems. In literature reviews (i.e., Henze et al., 1987; Metcalf and Eddy, 1991), a wide range of μ A,max values have been reported (0.25 to 3.0 days −1); however, recent data from several wastewater treatment plants across North America revealed that the estimated μ A,max values remained in the narrow range 0.85 to 1.05 days −1. In this study, long‐term operation of a laboratory‐scale sequencing batch reactor system was investigated for estimating this coefficient according to the low food‐to‐microorganism ratio bioassay and simulation methods, as recommended in the Water Environment Research Foundation (Alexandria, Virginia) report (Melcer et al., 2003). The estimated μ A,max values using steady‐state model calculations for four operating periods ranged from 0.83 to 0.99 day −1. The International Water Association (London, United Kingdom) Activated Sludge Model No. 1 (ASM1) dynamic model simulations revealed that a single value of μ A,max (1.2 days −1) could be used, despite variations in the measured specific nitrification rates. However, the average μ A,max was gradually decreasing during the activated sludge chlorination tests, until it reached the value of 0.48 day −1 at the dose of 5 mg chlorine/(g mixed liquor suspended solids · d). Significant discrepancies between the predicted X A/ Y A ratios were observed. In some cases, the ASM1 predictions were approximately two times higher than the steady‐state model predictions. This implies that estimating this ratio from a complex activated sludge model and using it in simple steady‐state model calculations should be accepted with great caution and requires further investigation.
Age-Related Differences in Worry and Related Processes
Authors: Basevitz Paul , Pushkar Dolores , Chaikelson June , Conway Michael , Dalton Connie
Published: April 2008

This study investigated the hypothesis that older adults would show age-related reductions in the tendency to worry in both their retrospective accounts and through cross-sectional age comparisons with a sample of younger adults. We also sought to determine whether age differences would be evident in psychological processes associated with a tendency to worry in general adult samples (intolerance of uncertainty and beliefs in the functional value of worry). Support was found for the hypothesized age-related reduction in worry in both retrospective reports among the older adults and cross-sectional age comparisons. Older adults were also found to report less intolerance of uncertainty and less belief in the functional value of worrying compared to younger adults. These findings suggest that worry-proneness is reduced in late adulthood and that a greater ability to tolerate uncertainty in life and to see less value in worrying may partially account for this. Developmental and contextual changes that may account for these findings are considered.
Immigrant Latino Day Laborers in New Jersey: Baseline Data from a Participatory Research Project
Authors: Ochsner Michele , Marshall Elizabeth , Kimmel Lou , Martino Carmen , Cunningham Rich , Hoffner Ken
Published: April 2008

This study reflects the collaborative efforts of university-based researchers, New Labor, a non-profit, membership-based worker center, the Laborers' International Union of North America New Jersey Chapter (LIUNA), and the N.J. Laborers Health and Safety Fund to develop a greater understanding of the needs, experiences, attitudes, and practices of the Latino day-labor workforce in New Jersey. Survey and qualitative data presented in this study address several questions about which there is currently very little information. These results strongly suggest that a significant subgroup of day laborers are both aware of and concerned about the dangers they face, open to opportunities for Spanishlanguage training, and despite challenges, ready to use what they learn about health and safety. As a reflection of the perceptions and reports of roughly 150 day laborers, this project provides further validation of the importance of stakeholder involvement in research and training among hard-to-reach worker populations.
New Jersey Migrant and Seasonal Farm Workers: Enumeration and Access to Healthcare Study
Authors: Borjan Marija , Constantino Patricia , Robson Mark G.
Published: April 2008

Despite the demanding physical labor Migrant and Seasonal Farm Workers (MSFW) provide to meet consumer demands and keep the nation's agricultural industry gainful, MSFWs are the most economically disadvantaged population in the nation. MSFWs lack sufficient access to health care and suffer more illnesses than the general population. Besides the difficulties in providing adequate health care to this population, enumeration of MSFWs has been an even greater challenge due to their mobility and illegal status. Through the analysis of secondary data sources, this study looks to approximate the number of MSFWs in the state of New Jersey and to investigate MSFW access to health care. Farm workers are a vital part of not only New Jersey's agricultural economy but also the entire nation's economy. Understanding the health needs of this population, and knowing the number of individuals that comprise this population, would not only help eliminate many health problems but it also would better prepare health officials in meeting the needs of the MSFW population.
The Impact of the Japanese Purchases of U.S. Treasuries on the Dollar/Yen Exchange Rate
Authors: Mollick Andre Varella , Soydemir Gokce
Published: April 2008

This article connects net Japanese purchases of U.S. Treasury securities and the U.S. 10-year Treasury bond yields to the yen/dollar exchange rate. VAR estimations suggest that a one-time increase in net Japanese purchases has an immediate negative effect on U.S. long bond yields but a short-lived delayed yen depreciation. Further, a one-time increase in the U.S. long yield leads to an immediate yen depreciation. Our results support the hypothesis that Japanese investors, who are major holders of U.S. debt and face extremely low interest rates domestically, influence the dollar/yen rate in a financially integrated world.
Monte Carlo Appraisals of Gravity Model Specifications
Authors: Schaefer Kurt C. , Anderson Michael A. , Ferrantino Michael J.
Published: April 2008

Many improvements have been proposed for the basic gravity model specification, most of which are confirmed by standard statistical tests due to the large number of observations often used to estimate such models. We use Monte Carlo experiments to examine situations in which features of models may be found statistically significant (or insignificant) when it is known ex ante that they are absent (or present) in the underlying data process. Erroneous assumptions about the presence or absence of lagged dependent variables, fixed effects, free-trade associations and custom unions are shown to introduce an economically important bias in estimates of the coefficients of interest, and in some cases to be confirmed spuriously. Policy effects for such initiatives as free trade associations and currency unions can also be confirmed spuriously when they do not exist in the data-generating process.
Selecting Presidential Nominees by National Primary: An Idea Whose Time Has Come?
Authors: Altschuler Bruce E
Published: April 2008

Despite many years of polls indicating overwhelming support for a national primary, it has never advanced far either in Congress or the parties. Opponents have claimed that it would eliminate the possibility of dark horse candidates building on early successes in small states, would dramatically increase the influence of money and mass media, weaken political parties and increase the possibility that a fringe candidate would win the nomination. This article finds that all these arguments apply at least as well to the current system. By simplifying the system, increasing voter turnout, making all votes equally meaningful and leading to a more representative electorate, a national primary would eliminate many of the serious flaws of the current system and therefore should be more seriously considered than it has been.
The Heart of the Problem: A Book Review of The Liberals' Moment by Bruce Miroff
Authors: Kamarck Elaine C
Published: April 2008

Kamarck reviews Miroff's new book on the McGovern Campaign and concludes that McGovernism is alive and well in the Republican Party.
Don't Blame Primary Voters for Polarization
Authors: Abramowitz Alan
Published: April 2008

In recent years, a number of media commentators and scholars have blamed primary voters for the rise of polarization in American politics. According to this argument, primary electorates are dominated by strong partisans whose views are more extreme than those of rank-and-file party supporters. This article uses data from recent exit polls of primary and general election voters as well as the 2006 Cooperative Congressional Election Study to test the primary election polarization theory. The evidence does not support the theory. In fact there appears to be very little difference between the ideologies of each party's primary voters and the ideologies of its general election voters. These findings suggest that the polarized state of American politics today reflects the polarized state of the overall American electorate rather than any peculiar characteristics of primary voters. The findings also suggest that even after they secure their party's nomination, it may be risky for candidates to adopt more moderate policy positions in order to appeal to swing voters, because any such move toward the center would risk alienating a large proportion of their party's electoral base.
The Iowa Caucuses, 1972-2008: A Eulogy
Authors: Squire Peverill
Published: April 2008

The Iowa Caucuses have been at the front of the nomination process since 1972. There are strong indications that their first in the nation status may not last past this campaign season. I offer an assessment of the caucuses by examining six myths that have developed about them.
On the Air: Advertising in 2004 as a Window on the 2008 Presidential General Election
Authors: Rivlin Joel
Published: April 2008

This paper provides a descriptive framework for analyzing television advertising in the 2008 Presidential general election. Using insights gleaned from data on the advertising contest in the 2004 elections from the Wisconsin Advertising Project, this paper shows how important it is for observers of elections to focus on the various sponsors of advertising, the different motives and aims of advertisers, and the variation in tactics used by campaigners. Television advertising remains the dominant means by which campaigns directly communicate with voters, and understanding the technological, regulatory and strategic context in which these ads are aired will allow for a better understanding of their effects.
Political Parties in Rough Weather
Authors: Cohen Marty , Karol David , Noel Hans , Zaller John
Published: April 2008

Though lightly regarded by many observers, political parties have been able to steer presidential nominations to insider favorites in all nine of the contested cases from 1980 to 2000. Democrats had more trouble in 2004, but still managed to avoid insurgent Howard Dean. This paper explains how today's presidential parties -- understood as coalitions of elected officials, interest and advocacy groups, and ideological activists -- have learned to work together in the so-called Invisible Primary to affect the outcome of the state-by-state primaries and caucuses. The paper concludes with a discussion of the influence of parties in the pre-Iowa phase of the 2008 nominations.
Handicapping the 2008 Nomination Races: An Early Winter Prospectus
Authors: Mayer William G.
Published: April 2008

Based in part on a forecasting model, this article reviews the current state of the 2008 presidential nomination races and offers some predictions about who will win the Democratic and Republican nominations.
Presidential Nominating Conventions: Past, Present and Future
Authors: Panagopoulos Costas
Published: April 2008

Few aspects of the presidential selection process have changed as dramatically as nominating conventions have over the past half century or so. Once the epicenters of the proverbial smoke-filled rooms that all but decided presidential nominations, some argue that conventions are now mainly superficial, perfunctory and even superfluous affairs. These developments, influenced in large part by the ways in which political parties have adapted to institutional changes and growth in mass media, have essentially transformed the nature and role of conventions in modern campaigns. But conventions remain key political events that motivate and inform voters and that have the capacity to influence the dynamics of presidential campaigns. Conventions still matter and persist as useful political institutions.
Response to Bruce Miroff
Authors: Baer Kenneth S
Published: April 2008

The following is a reply to Bruce Miroff's response to my review of his book, The Liberals' Moment.