bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Parallel Phase I/II Clinical Trial Design for Combination Therapies
Authors: Huang Xuelin , Biswas Swati , Oki Yasuhiro , Issa Jean‐Pierre , Berry Donald A.
Published: December 2006

Summary The use of multiple drugs in a single clinical trial or as a therapeutic strategy has become common, particularly in the treatment of cancer. Because traditional trials are designed to evaluate one agent at a time, the evaluation of therapies in combination requires specialized trial designs. In place of the traditional separate phase I and II trials, we propose using a parallel phase I/II clinical trial to evaluate simultaneously the safety and efficacy of combination dose levels, and select the optimal combination dose. The trial is started with an initial period of dose escalation, then patients are randomly assigned to admissible dose levels. These dose levels are compared with each other. Bayesian posterior probabilities are used in the randomization to adaptively assign more patients to doses with higher efficacy levels. Combination doses with lower efficacy are temporarily closed and those with intolerable toxicity are eliminated from the trial. The trial is stopped if the posterior probability for safety, efficacy, or futility crosses a prespecified boundary. For illustration, we apply the design to a combination chemotherapy trial for leukemia. We use simulation studies to assess the operating characteristics of the parallel phase I/II trial design, and compare it to a conventional design for a standard phase I and phase II trial. The simulations show that the proposed design saves sample size, has better power, and efficiently assigns more patients to doses with higher efficacy levels.
Simultaneous Inference for Semiparametric Nonlinear Mixed‐Effects Models with Covariate Measurement Errors and Missing Responses
Authors: Liu Wei , Wu Lang
Published: December 2006

SummarySemiparametric nonlinear mixed‐effects (NLME) models are flexible for modeling complex longitudinal data. Covariates are usually introduced in the models to partially explain interindividual variations. Some covariates, however, may be measured with substantial errors. Moreover, the responses may be missing and the missingness may be nonignorable. We propose two approximate likelihood methods for semiparametric NLME models with covariate measurement errors and nonignorable missing responses. The methods are illustrated in a real data example. Simulation results show that both methods perform well and are much better than the commonly used naive method.
MICE: Multiple‐Peak Identification, Characterization, and Estimation
Authors: Serban Nicoleta
Published: December 2006

SummaryMICE—multiple‐peak identification, characterization, and estimation—is a procedure for estimating a lower bound of the number of frequency peaks and for estimating the frequency peak parameters. The leading application is protein structure determination using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) experiments. NMR frequency data are multiple‐peak data, where each frequency peak corresponds to two connected atoms in the three‐dimensional protein structure. We analyze the NMR frequency data through a series of steps: a preliminary step for separating the signal from the background followed by identification of local maxima up to a noise‐level‐dependent threshold, estimation of the frequency peak parameters using an iterative algorithm, and detection of mixtures of peaks using hypothesis testing.
Bayesian Hierarchical Modeling for Time Course Microarray Experiments
Authors: Chi Yueh‐Yun , Ibrahim Joseph G. , Bissahoyo Anika , Threadgill David W.
Published: December 2006

SummaryTime course microarray experiments designed to characterize the dynamic regulation of gene expression in biological systems are becoming increasingly important. One critical issue that arises when examining time course microarray data is the identification of genes that show different temporal expression patterns among biological conditions. Here we propose a Bayesian hierarchical model to incorporate important experimental factors and to account for correlated gene expression measurements over time and over different genes. A new gene selection algorithm is also presented with the model to simultaneously identify genes that show changes in expression among biological conditions, in response to time and other experimental factors of interest. The algorithm performs well in terms of the false positive and false negative rates in simulation studies. The methodology is applied to a mouse model time course experiment to correlate temporal changes in azoxymethane‐induced gene expression profiles with colorectal cancer susceptibility.
Interrelation of Ferroelectricity, Morphology, and Thickness in Sol–Gel‐Derived PbZrxTi1−xO3 Films
Authors: Etin Aleksey , Shter Gennady E. , Grader Gideon S. , Reisner George M.
Published: December 2006

This paper describes the evolution of a sol–gel‐derived PbZrxTi1−xO3 film microstructure and ferroelectricity as a function of thickness in the 0.2–1.2 μm range. In particular, we concentrate on the pyrochlore (Py) content in the film studied by the quantitative analysis of HRSEM images and corresponding ferroelectric properties. We have found that the Py content decreases with increasing thickness and have explained this phenomenon by a different extent of lead loss during processing. The ferroelectric hysteresis and fatigue of the films are correlated with the Py content. This paper shows that the Py presence in the film is responsible for the thickness‐dependence of the coercive field.
〈111〉 Rotation Twins in an Orthorhombic LaGaO3 Perovskite
Authors: Wang Wei‐Lin , Lu Hong‐Yang
Published: December 2006

Phase‐transformation‐induced twins in pressureless‐sintered lanthanum gallate (LaGaO3) ceramics have been analyzed using transmission electron microscopy. Twins are induced by solid‐state phase transformation upon cooling from rhombohedral (r, R3c) to orthorhombic (o, Pnma) symmetry at 145°C. Domains with a 150°–60°–150° configuration were frequently detected when viewed along [210]. This observation representing the co‐existence of the {121} and {123} twins is suggested by analyzing corresponding selected area diffraction patterns across the domain boundaries. The former, with the twin plane lying on {121}, is the reflection type whose twin variants are related by mirror plane symmetry. The latter, although its nature was confirmed by tilting experiments along an unsplit row of reflections, exhibits characteristic crystallographic orientation relationships that are distinctive from those of the {121} twins. The twin laws represented in the matrix form are also derived accordingly from corresponding orientation relationships. Crystallographic analysis indicates that these domains commonly possess an orientation relationship that can be described by the twofold rotation axis about 〈111〉 lost upon the rhombohedral→orthorhombic phase transition. They are therefore the 180° parallel‐rotation twin, with the twin axis 〈111〉 lying in {123}. Twins generated by the r→o phase transition between crystals of non‐group–subgroup relations are discussed in terms of an intermediate metastable cubic phase of the lowest common supergroup symmetry.
Ballpoint Pen Inks: The Quantitative Analysis of Ink Solvents on Paper by Solid‐Phase Microextraction
Authors: Brazeau Luc , Gaudreau Marc
Published: December 2006

ABSTRACT:We wish to describe further developments to a method previously reported on the detection of 2‐phenoxyethanol in ink. The solid‐phase microextraction (SPME) sampling technique, together with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC‐MS), has been used to quantify solvents in writing ink. In conventional approaches, the analysis of ink on documents requires some degree of destructive sampling. The methods commonly used remove ink samples from paper using a scalpel or a paper punch. To avoid document destruction, a sampling cell was constructed that allows solvents to be adsorbed directly onto the SPME fiber from the headspace above the document surface. Analytes (ink volatiles) are then desorbed from the SPME fiber on a gas chromatograph equipped with a mass selective detector (GC‐MSD). With this method, it was possible to detect the presence of ink solvents on documents for a period lasting up toc. 2 years.
Usefulness of Combining Clinical and Radiological Dental Findings for a More Accurate Noninvasive Age Estimation
Authors: Azrak Birgül , Victor Anja , Willershausen Brita , Pistorius Alexander , Hörr Carsten , Gleissner Christiane
Published: December 2006

ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to establish correlations of clinical and radiological dental findings, alone or in combination, with chronological age in adults. Dental findings and orthopantomograms of 984 patients (aged 20–60 years; 524 females/460 males) were analyzed. DMF‐T index and distance (alveolar bone level, ABL) between cemento‐enamel junction and alveolar bone margin were recorded. Additionally, clinical and radiological findings at each tooth crown and root were collected according to the actual status of destruction and restoration, and a total score for each dentition (TSD) was calculated. After univariate correlation analysis, correlation coefficients for ABL and TSD were improved by using square root (sqrt). However, the determination accuracy was still not satisfactory; 90% of the residuals were in the range of about ±10. The present study showed that clinical and radiological dental findings could not be used, not even in combination, for accurate age estimation as a single method, but that they could support other methods.
Use of the Global Positioning System in the Field Recovery of Scattered Human Remains*
Authors: Listi Ginesse A. , Manhein Mary H. , Leitner Michael
Published: December 2006

ABSTRACT: This study examines the Global Positioning System (GPS) as a tool for field mapping of scattered human remains or other materials in forensic investigations. Two aspects of the GPS are considered: (1) the level of accuracy that can be obtained using a mid‐priced GPS unit, and (2) the effectiveness of using the GPS to map scattered materials. The positional accuracy of the GPS receiver was tested using a National Geodetic Survey (NGS) point located in Baton Rouge, LA. The utility of the GPS for mapping was investigated by setting up a mock field recovery and mapping the remains using both the GPS and traditional archeological methods. The results indicate that the positional error for a single location using GPS was less than one‐half meter. However, when multiple positions were considered, the data produced on different days were not consistent. Further, the GPS receiver used in this study could not distinguish items in close association. Factors such as tree cover density, the proximity of the materials to structures or trees, and satellite positioning contributed to the erratic data. These results indicate that traditional techniques and photographs are still indispensable for mapping scattered remains or artifacts.
Identification Through X‐Ray Fluorescence Analysis of Dental Restorative Resin Materials: A Comprehensive Study of Noncremated, Cremated, and Processed‐Cremated Individuals*
Authors: Bush Mary A. , Miller Raymond G. , Prutsman‐Pfeiffer Jennifer , Bush Peter J.
Published: December 2006

ABSTRACT:Tooth‐colored restorative materials are increasingly being placed in the practice of modern dentistry, replacing traditional materials such as amalgam. Many restorative resins have distinct elemental compositions that allow identification of brand. Not only are resins classifiable by elemental content, but they also survive extreme conditions such as cremation. This is of significance to the forensic odontologist because resin uniqueness adds another level of certainty in victim identification, especially when traditional means are exhausted. In this three‐part study, unique combinations of resins were placed in six human cadavers (total 70 restorations). Simulated ante‐mortem dental records were created. In a blind experiment, a portable X‐ray fluorescence (XRF) unit was used to locate and identify the resin brands placed in the dentition. The technique was successful in location and brand identification of 53 of the restorations, which was sufficient to enable positive victim identification among the study group. This part of the experiment demonstrated the utility of portable XRF in detection and analysis of restorative materials for victim identification in field or morgue settings. Identification of individuals after cremation is a more difficult task, as the dentition is altered by shrinkage and fragmentation, and may not be comparable with a dental chart. Identification of processed cremains is a much greater challenge, as comminution obliterates all structural relationships. Under both circumstances, it is the nonbiological artifacts that aid in identification. Restorative resin fillings can survive these conditions, and can still be named by brand utilizing elemental analysis. In a continuation of the study, the cadavers were cremated in a cremation retort under standard mortuary conditions. XRF was again used to analyze retrieved resins and to identify the individuals based on restorative materials known to exist from dental records. The cremains were then processed and the analysis was repeated to determine whether restorative resins could be found under this extreme condition. Under both circumstances, sufficient surviving resin material was found to distinguish positively each individual in the study group. This study showed the utility of XRF as an analytical tool for forensic odontology and also the significance of the role of restorative resins in victim identification, even after cremation.
A New Type of Shotgun Ammunition Produces Unique Wound Characteristics
Authors: Nelson Craig L. , Winston David C.
Published: December 2006

ABSTRACT: The Tucson Police Department, Tucson, AZ, has begun using the Polyshok Impact Reactive Projectile (IRP), a new type of shotgun ammunition that includes a lead bead core that travels within single, plastic‐encased projectile. On impact, the core is released to distribute over a small area, thereby disintegrating on impact to reduce the likelihood of exit or collateral damage on missed shots. After a brief review of shotgun slug ballistics and wound characteristics and a discussion of the mechanism of the Polyshok IRP, we report the first death in the United States from this ammunition. Findings included a single entrance wound with plastic ammunition components and small lead particles recovered from the body, the combination of which normally would suggest a close‐range shooting with birdshot. However, the characteristics of this ammunition create different patterns than are found with slugs or shot, so that a medical examiner unfamiliar with the Polyshok IRP could draw inaccurate conclusions about ammunition and range of fire. Because the single projectile fired from this ammunition is composed of both plastic and lead, plastic components are likely to be found within the wound at any range of fire, unlike traditional shot or slug ammunition. Also, the small size of lead particles found spread through the wound cavity would ordinarily suggest a small‐size shot, whereas the external appearance of the wound (a single entrance with no dispersion of shot) and the pattern of tissue destruction are more consistent with the patterns of injury associated with shotgun slugs.
Paths to Destruction: The Lives and Crimes of Two Serial Killers*
Authors: Wolf Barbara C. , Lavezzi Wendy A.
Published: December 2006

ABSTRACT: Although research into the phenomenon of serial murder has revealed that serial killers frequently do not fit the initially described paradigm in terms of their physical and psychological profiles, backgrounds, and motives to kill, the media continues to sensationalize the figures of such killers and the investigators who attempt to analyze them on the basis of aspects of their crimes. Although the so‐called “typical” profile of the serial murderer has proven accurate in some instances, in many other cases the demographics and behaviors of these killers have deviated widely from the generalized assumptions. This report details two unusual cases in which five and eight murders were committed in upstate New York. The lives and crimes of these offenders illustrate the wide spectrum of variations in the backgrounds, demographics, motivations, and actions witnessed among serial murderers, and highlight the limitations and dangers of profiling based on generalities.
Modified Cobalt Thiocyanate Presumptive Color Test for Ketamine Hydrochloride
Authors: Morris Jeremiah A.
Published: December 2006

ABSTRACT: A new presumptive color test for ketamine hydrochloride is reported. The test is a modification of the cobalt thiocyanate test currently used for cocaine and involves basifying samples rather than acidifying them. The two‐step procedure for liquids and three‐step procedure for powdered samples are straightforward, definitive, and utilize reagents commonly used in forensic drug analysis. The test works on ketamine hydrochloride in both powder and liquid form and has a sensitivity of c. 1.25 mg. Performing the test with numerous other controlled substances and related chemicals demonstrates the test to be highly selective.
Interpretation of Automotive Light Bulb Examination Results: An Intriguing Case
Authors: Stauffer Eric
Published: December 2006

ABSTRACT: During the examination of light bulbs from a vehicle involved in a road accident, the headlights did not reveal any evidence regarding whether they were energized or not. Additionally, a police officer turned the lights on after the accident to verify their functioning, thus damaging some of the evidence. By examining the vehicle, it was determined that the park lights could provide answers regarding the conditions of the headlights. After observations, it was concluded that the park lights and headlights were off at the time of the impact. This case report demonstrates how important it is to integrate the circumstances surrounding the case into the interpretation of the results. Nevertheless, it also demonstrates the necessity for examining both the vehicle and all light bulbs in order to reach the most pertinent and proper conclusion.
Allele Frequencies for two STR Loci D6S1274 and D17S1299 in Chinese and Thai Populations
Authors: Du Bing , Wang Yanyun , Zhou Bin , Zhang Gengqian , Zhang Lin
Published: December 2006

POPULATION: Chinese Han, Thai.
Distribution of D2S2958, D2S1769, and D18S872 Alleles in a Chinese Population Sample
Authors: Luo Haibo , Jiang Shi , Ye Yi , Yun Libin , Wu Wei , Gao Shuang , Zhang Lin , Wu Jin , Li Yingbi , Hou Yiping
Published: December 2006

POPULATION: Chinese.
Income dynamics in Tamil Nadu, India from 1971 to 2003: changing roles of land and human capital
Authors: Kajisa Kei , Palanichamy N. Venkatesa
Published: December 2006

This article examines the changing role of physical and human capital in income dynamics in Tamil Nadu, India, using detailed daily records of farming households from 1971 to 2003. We find that income growth until the early 1990s is attributed to the rice Green Revolution and the associated development of nonrice farm sector. Further growth after the 1990s became possible due to the rapid nonfarm sector development that has been stimulated by the liberalization of Indian economy since 1991. In accordance with this change in income structure, the importance of physical and human capital has changed. Human capital was important in the early 1970s to take advantage of the rice Green Revolution technology. Once the new technology became standard among farmers, human capital became an insignificant factor. The importance of human capital has revived in a different manner in recent years firstly because it has increased farmers' access to nonfarm job opportunities, and secondly because farm management has become more knowledge intensive in the face of increasing scarcity of labor and water. The contribution of physical capital increased during the Green Revolution period, while it started declining after that. The changing mechanism is characterized as the shifting importance from physical to human capital in accordance with the changing engines of income growth from the Green Revolution to the development of nonfarm sector.
Sterol, Protein and Lipid Trafficking in Chinese Hamster Ovary Cells with Niemann‐Pick Type C1 Defect
Authors: Pipalia Nina H. , Hao Mingming , Mukherjee Sushmita , Maxfield Frederick R.
Published: December 2006

We studied the trafficking of sterols, lipids and proteins in Niemann‐Pick type C (NPC) cells. The NPC is an inherited disorder involving the accumulation of sterol and lipids in modified late‐endosome/lysosome‐like storage organelles. Most sterol accumulation studies in NPC cells have been carried out using low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) as the sterol source, and it has been shown that sterol efflux from late endosomes is impaired in NPC cells. In this study, we used a fluorescent sterol analog, dehydroergosterol, which can be quickly and efficiently delivered to the plasma membrane. Thus, we were able to study the trafficking kinetics of the non‐LDL‐derived sterol pool, and we found that dehydroergosterol accumulates in the storage organelles over the course of several hours in NPC cells. We also found that dialkylindocarbocyanine lipid‐mimetic analogs that recycle efficiently from early endosomes in wild‐type cells are targeted to late endosomal organelles in NPC cells, and transferrin receptors recycle slowly and inefficiently in NPC cells. These data are consistent with multiple trafficking defects in both early and late endosomes in NPC cells.
The Conquest of the Past inThe History of the Kings of Britain
Authors: Faletra Michael A.
Published: December 2006

This article surveys a range of twentieth‐century scholarly discourse concerning Geoffrey of Monmouth's apparent political sympathies in his mid‐twelfth‐century Anglo‐LatinThe History of the Kings of Britain, especially in regard to his stance toward the Welsh and his use of source materials. In contrast to recent critics, especially Monika Otter and Michelle Warren, who see Geoffrey's enormously popular and influential pseudo‐history as fundamentally ambivalent or ambiguous, the present author aligns Geoffrey with his Norman patrons and contends thatThe History of the Kings of Britaincreates a past that posits the ancient Britons, the ancestors of the twelfth‐century Welsh, as eminently fit for conquest. In terms of its general historiographic emplotment,The History of the Kings of Britainnarrates pre‐Saxon British history as a long decline. In tandem with this larger narrative structure, Geoffrey's strategic use of the prophecies of Merlin likewise subverts any potential rallying point for British or Welsh resurgence. Both historiographically and teleologically, Geoffrey'sHistory of the Kings of Britainultimately works against the ancient Britons and their Welsh descendants, legitimating Norman colonial ambitions in Wales.
Victorian Feeling and the Victorian Novel
Authors: Ablow Rachel
Published: December 2006

This article examines the recent explosion of interest in the emotions in the context of the Victorian novel. It focuses specifically on work published since the “theoretical turn” of the 1970s, describing how recent feminist critics have expanded the range of texts we examine and questioned the value we grant or refuse to sentimental literature, how Foucauldian critics have called attention to the historicity of the emotions, and how post‐Althusserian critics have redefined literature as an Ideological State Apparatus. The result has been a renewed interest in – as well as a new skepticism about – emotional responses to literary texts.
Does dermal thermometry predict clinical outcome in diabetic foot infection? Analysis of data from the SIDESTEP* trial
Authors: Armstrong David G , Lipsky Benjamin A , Polis Adam B , Abramson Murray A
Published: December 2006

The purpose of the study was to assess in patients with a diabetic foot infection (DFI), whether differences in skin temperature of the affected foot as compared to the corresponding site on the contralateral foot using dermal thermometry (DT) correlates with infection severity and clinical outcome. As part of the SIDESTEP DFI study, investigators took DT measurements at baseline and the discontinuation of intravenous therapy (DCIV) and performed a systematic evaluation of the infected limb to calculate a wound score. We compared the skin temperature differential between the limbs at the two assessments and determined the correlation between this value and surrogate markers of inflammation and the clinical response to treatment. Among patients enrolled in SIDESTEP, 332 were fully evaluable. The mean temperature differential between the limbs was 2·81 ± 5·75°F at baseline and 2·43 ± 4·84°F at DCIV (mean change: −0·37; 95% confidence interval (CI): −0·98, 0·23; P= 0·225). Skin temperature differential at baseline did not correlate with white blood cell count, level of C‐reactive protein or erythrocyte sedimentation rate or the infection severity score (r= 0·058, 0·148, −0·002, 0·067, respectively). We observed no overall trend between surface temperature differential at baseline and clinical outcome at DCIV, but patients with a skin temperature differential of ≥10°F at baseline had a significantly lower clinical response than those whose differential was <10°F (81·4% versus 94·3%; difference 12·9%; 95% CI: 3·5, 27·3%, P= 0·007). While there was no overall relationship between skin temperature and poor clinical outcome, there may be a threshold effect in DT (<10°F versus >10°F) between the limbs at baseline that predicts outcome of therapy.
The management of deep sternal wound infections using vacuum assisted closure™ (V.A.C.®) therapy
Authors: Fleck Tatjana , Gustafsson Ronny , Harding Keith , Ingemansson Richard , Lirtzman Mitchell D , Meites Herbert L , Moidl Reinhard , Price Patricia , Ritchie Andrew , Salazar Jorge , Sjögren Johan , Song David H , Sumpio Bauer E , Toursarkissian Boulos , Waldenberger Ferdinand , Wetzel‐Roth Walter
Published: December 2006

A group of international experts met in May 2006 to develop clinical guidelines on the practical application of vacuum assisted closure™ (V.A.C.®)† therapy in deep sternal wound infections. Group discussion and an anonymous interactive voting system were used to develop content. The recommendations are based on current evidence or, where this was not available, the majority consensus of the international group. The principles of treatment for deep sternal wound infections include early recognition and treatment of infection. V.A.C. therapy should be instigated early, following thorough wound irrigation and surgical debridement. V.A.C. therapy in deep sternal wound infections requires specialist surgical supervision and should only be undertaken by clinicians with adequate experience and training in the use of the technique.
THE POLITICS OF RESEARCH: THE USE, ABUSE, AND MISUSE OF SOCIAL SCIENCE DATA—THE CASES OF INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENCE
Authors: Gelles Richard J.
Published: December 2006

This article examines the issue of how research is utilized, abused, and misused in policy and practice in the area of intimate partner violence (IPV). The article reviews and critically analyzes facts set forth for the purpose of claiming that IPV is a significant social problem and finds that many of these facts lack empirical support. The lack of evidence that supports theoretical explanations for IPV and recommended interventions hinders the ability to adequately respond to the problem of IPV.
THE IMPACT OF CONTINUING EDUCATION TRAINING ON LAW GUARDIAN KNOWLEDGE, EFFICACY, AND PRACTICE BEHAVIORS
Authors: Cross Wendi , Cerulli Catherine
Published: December 2006

There is an increased demand for law guardians in domestic violence cases, especially those involving child witnesses. Training is required for law guardians to meet child clients’ needs. While workshops and conferences are typical venues for continuing education training, their effectiveness is unknown. This pilot study compared law guardians who attended a conference on community violence and children to nonattendees on several training outcomes. Results showed a positive impact on attendees’ feelings of efficacy and intentions to carry out new practice behaviors post‐conference; differences were maintained at follow‐up. Limitations and implications of this pilot study are discussed.
GAMETE DONORS AND MISTAKEN IDENTITIES: THE IMPORTANCE OF GENETIC AWARENESS AND PROPOSALS FAVORING DONOR IDENTITY DISCLOSURE FOR CHILDREN BORN FROM GAMETE DONATIONS IN THE UNITED STATES
Authors: Baines Jennifer A.
Published: December 2006

The technological advent of artificial reproduction has resulted in a substantial increase of children born from gamete donation. Studies conducted overseas, particularly in the United Kingdom, have explored the controversy as to whether or not such children have the right to know the identity of their donor parents. This article discusses the consequences of donor disclosure and donor privacy for both the parents and children. Currently, there is a lack of U.S. state legislation on the issue. While studies remain inconclusive, research indicates that counseling for the parties involved and the promulgation of state statutes may be beneficial.
Testing Programs Draw Better Applicants1
Authors: Stromberg Eleroy L.
Published: December 2006

Summary:

A number of personnel managers who have adopted selective test procedures have been surprised and even alarmed to discover that within a short time almost all applicants qualify on the test batteries, even though the installations were carefully made and flexible selection standards established. No great problem arises, for the employment manager can effectively adjust his critical scores to meet the fluctuation of the labor market; however, the reasons for the superiority in the test level of new applicants as compared to the original criterion groups present an interesting problem to be considered. Although the answers are not clear‐cut, the implications for such changes in qualifications are the subject of this report. These indicate that the existence of a testing program attracts the better applicants and discourages the poorer

A selective testing program was installed for all productive workers in three plants of the same industry. One plant was in Illinois, one in Maryland, and the third in Washington, D. C. All three plants are members of the same national association. This is a borderline industry, employing women

Selection tests were validated by testing present employees in all three plants. Subsequent applicants were superior to the criterion groups to such a degree that initial standards failed to screen out the expected number of applicants. The differences between the experimental groups and subsequent applicant groups are statistically significant. These differences cannot be explained in terms of shifts in the labor market or motivation. It is suggested that self‐imposed selection may take place within the labor source, and that only the more capable applicants apply at plants where it has become known that test qualifications have been made a requisite for employment.
Reduce Factory Turnover
Authors: Bolanovich D. J.
Published: December 2006

Summary

The problem of high turnover during the first few months of employment is frequently serious and costly. In the factory studied, 22% of one group of 212 hired had left by the end of the first month, 35% by the end of the second month and less than half were on the rolls by the end of the sixth month. Use of an interest inventory enabled the reduction of first‐month turnover from 22% to 7.5%; six‐month turnover could be cut from 54% to 31%. The interest inventory was specifically designed for its purpose and the scoring key developed experimentally. Trial has shown that the interest inventory and scoring weights are effective in reducing early turnover, not only in the factory in which they were developed, but also in another factory in a different section of the country. It is particularly worth noting that the scoring weights which actually distinguished the early quits from the continuing workers were radically different from those which would have been set on the basis of “informed judgment”.
A Group Situation Compared with Individual Interviews for Securing Personnel Information1
Authors: Wagner Ralph
Published: December 2006

Summary

The Personnel Department frequently finds it necessary to gather personnel information for either research or operating purposes. For many types of information the personal interview has been preferred in spite of its expense because it has been thought to provide fuller information than can be obtained by other means. This study describes a group interview technique developed to secure personnel information less expensively. The, results of the group technique are compared with a control situation in which individual interviews were used. Results indicate that the group interview accomplishes the work of the individual interview in one fourth the time with no loss of quality and no adverse morale effects.
A Program of Human Engineering
Authors: Mead Leonard C.
Published: December 2006

Summary

A résumé of the manner in which the field of “human engineering” arose is presented together with a specification of what is encompassed by the term. This is followed by an outline of major topics of the field and representative experiments for each topic. These researches indicate that human engineering is not a science or field of endeavor unto itself. Rather it is a technical service which our society now demands. Recent interest in the phrase merely indicates that individuals from many professions, particularly the engineering and biological sciences, have discovered that they can and should be of mutual assistance in solving the problems of fitting man to the complexities of his contemporary work situation.
The Problem of Obtaining Negative Nominations in Peer Ratings
Authors: WEBB WILSE B.
Published: December 2006

One of the most effective ways of evaluating complex behavior characteristics is the use of peer ratings. The method requires that the individual be rated by the members of a group in which he is an active member. This technique has been widely used in leadership studies and is being increasingly used as a measure of job performance.

The typical technique involves obtaining both “positive” and “negative” evaluations. Often, there are difficulties inherent in obtaining unfavorable descriptions from group members about their associates. This study indicates that getting such unfavorable descriptions is not always necessary.
The Construction of a New Type of Attitude Measure1
Authors: KUNIN THEODORE
Published: December 2006

Attitude surveys are widely used throughout industry today, as modern management has become aware of the value of sampling employee opinion both in connection with changes of policy or procedure and with current conditions within the organization. It has been found that more harmony can be achieved within an organization and serious labor trouble sometimes can be averted if employee opinion is determined and potential problems rectified before they become serious.

Most attitude surveys utilize words as the vehicles by which attitudes are expressed. The items may require that the employee decide which of a series of phrases best expresses his feelings about a designated topic or, alternatively, whether or not a given sentence is indicative of his attitude. It is felt that a certain amount of distortion is an invariable result of this process which necessitates the translation of one man's feelings into another man's words. Error creeps in, both in the interpretation of the meaning of the items by the respondent, and in the selection of the item which most accurately indicates the true feelings of the respondent on the topic in question. This is particularly difficult for persons of low verbal facility to achieve with any accuracy.

The present paper is an account of the development of a qualitative or projective attitude scale. Two series of faces have been constructed which run the gamut of feeling from extremely positive to extremely negative. These faces have been quantified so that attitude scales in which they are used can be scored in the same manner as can any other form of attitude measuring device. They have, however, the advantage of eliminating the necessity for translating feelings into words. The respondent is required only to check the face which “looks like he feels” rather than verbalizing his feelings. It is felt that the resulting measure provides a more accurate measurement of attitudes than is otherwise possible.
Factors Influencing Organizational Effectiveness VI. A Survey of Aircraft Workers
Authors: COMREY ANDREW L. , HIGH WALLACE , WILSON ROBERT C.
Published: December 2006

This is the sixth in a series of validation studies designed to provide some information concerning the variables related to organizational effectiveness (1, 2, 3, 5, 6).2 Questionnaires composed of groups of relatively homogeneous objective items were given to 213 workers, 244 supervisors, and 29 foremen at the California Division of the Lockheed Aircraft Corporation, Burbank, California. The homogeneous item groups, or dimensions, were designed to measure different characteristics of the organization and its personnel, e.g., supervisory practices, and attitudes toward each other, the work, and the company. The personnel surveyed were located in 29 distinct departments, each headed by a foreman. Criterion data relating to organizational effectiveness were obtained for each of the 29 departments. These data consisted of two quality control measures, production measures based on standard hours, and ratings by one of the company's staff executives. Responses to the questionnaires in the form of dimension scores were correlated with these four criteria. The present report is concerned with the analysis of questionnaires at the worker level. The other phases of this research will be reported at a later date.

The results from the worker questionnaire may be summarized as follows:

1. Ail correlations between questionnaire dimensions and the rating criterion were zero.

2. Many substantial correlations were obtained between questionnaire dimensions and quality control measures, but the relationships were usually curvilinear or negative and hence difficult to interpret.

3. The production criterion correlated in the expected manner with dimensions Communication Downward, Good Judgment, Lack of Arbitrariness and Safety Enforcement. Several other dimensions gave correlations of interest, though short of significance.
Non‐Technical Factors in Supervisors' Ratings of Job Performance
Authors: HAUSMAN HOWARD J. , STRUPP HANS H.
Published: December 2006

Supervisory ratings were analyzed to determine whether supervisors could rate aircraft mechanics on several dimensions of on‐the‐job proficiency, or whether their ratings contained nothing more than global general impressions. Three samples of USAF aircraft mechanics were administered a test of technical competence, while supervisory and co‐worker ratings were obtained on them. The rating instruments contained a large number of detailed items, plus one over‐all item. Special effort was directed at items which reflected motivational areas, or those “non‐technical” variables which appear to modify job performance so that technical skill does not perfectly predict actual performance.

Several clusters of rating dimensions were obtained from both the supervisory and co‐worker rating instruments. These dimensions tended to correlate differentially with measures most likely to reflect technical skill, so that the ratings of technical skill correlated highest with them, while the other dimensions had negligible correlations with test and experience. Rater agreement was at the level usually found for rating instruments, although evidence showed supervisors were better raters than co‐workers.

Using a criterion of grouped co‐worker over‐all ratings, it was found that the supervisory rating dimensions were a useful addition to the test of technical competence in predicting over‐all proficiency. This was interpreted as evidence of the existence of non‐technical variables in the supervisory ratings, since technical competence was covered in the test.
A Suggested Modification in Job Satisfaction Surveys
Authors: ROSEN R. A. HUDSON , ROSEN HJALMAR
Published: December 2006

In this paper it initially is pointed out that varying types of questions included within job satisfaction surveys often are interpreted as being equivalent; that is, as giving some measure of satisfaction‐dissatisfaction. A modification is proposed which not only would overcome that difficulty, but would give some insight into reasons behind evaluations. A questionnaire incorporating this modification, and used in a survey of union member attitudes about their union organization, is described.

The following conclusions were derived: (1) The danger of interpreting varying types of questions as providing a measure of satisfaction‐dissatisfaction was demonstrated. (2) The proposed modification provided insight into the reasons behind satisfaction‐dissatisfaction. (3) Differing statistical treatment of the data produced no significant differences in interpretation.
Relationship of Short Employment Tests and General Clerical Tests
Authors: HUGHES J. L. , McNamara W. J.
Published: December 2006

This study sought to determine whether the Short Employment Tests (SET) were as discriminating as the General Clerical Test (GCT) in selecting and classifying two groups of office workers with different educational backgrounds.

Group I was composed of male and female clerical and other office applicants who were mainly high school graduates. This group was given the GCT and the vocabulary, numerical, and clerical sub‐tests of the SET. Group II included male and female secretarial and stenographic applicants most of whom had business school or college training beyond high school. These applicants took the verbal section of the GCT and the verbal sub‐test of the SET.

For the clerical applicants, the correlation (.87) between the GCT and the SET total scores indicated that the SET could satisfactorily replace the GCT in the selection procedure and reduce test administration time. For the secretarial and stenographic applicants, the correlation between the GCT‐B (Verbal) and SET Verbal was .77. The GCT‐B differentiated more finely throughout the entire score range among these better educated applicants than the SET Verbal, which was too easy a test for this group. However, the SET Verbal appeared to be useful as a rough screen for eliminating the poorest applicants. No validity data are reported.
Factors Influencing Organizational Effectiveness. VIII. A Survey of Aircraft Foremen
Authors: HIGH WALLACE S. , WILSON ROBERT C. , COMREY ANDREW L.
Published: December 2006

This article is a report of the eighth in a series of studies designed to discover some of the variables related to organizational effectiveness (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8)2. Questionnaires containing groups of relatively homogeneous items hypothesized to have some relation to organizational effectiveness have been administered to individuals within subunits of various organizations. These variables have been analyzed against ratings of effectiveness and several types of objective criteria to determine if individuals in the “better” subunits respond to the items differently from those in the “less effective” subunits.

In this study, questionnaires were administered to 213 workers, 244 supervisors, and 29 foremen at the Lockheed Aircraft Corporation, California Division, Burbank, California. Two previous articles have described the results from the worker and supervisor survey (4, 5). The present report is concerned with the foremen, each of whom headed one of the 29 departments surveyed. Four criterion measures pertinent to the effectiveness of these departments were obtained: two quality control indices, a measure of quantity of production based upon per cent realization of engineered time standards, and a rating by a staff executive of over‐all department effectiveness. Responses to the questionnaire dimensions were correlated, by means of the epsilonc technique, with each of the four criterion measures.

Results from the analysis of foremen questionnaires against the criteria are summarized below:

1. Only two significant correlations occurred with the two quality control criteria. Since this is about the number of significant correlations one would expect from chance alone, no great weight is placed upon their occurrence.

2. Six significant correlations were obtained between the dimensions and the production criterion: Adequate Authority, Attitude Toward Paper Work, Backing Up Decisions, Job Security Consciousness, Non‐Hypercritical Attitude Toward Subordinates, and Urgency.

3. With the rating criterion, the only significant dimension was Feeling About the Company.
Profile of the Mechanical Engineer III. Personality
Authors: HARRISON ROSS , TOMBLEN DON T. , JACKSON THEODORE A.
Published: December 2006

The personalities of 100 mechanical engineers were investigated by means of protective techniques, a personality inventory, a personal history form, and a clinical interview. While they show a wide range of temperamental variation, there are definite trends which characterize the main body of mechanical engineers.

(1) Mechanical engineers are emotionally stable. They ordinarily make compatible marriages, maintain comfortable human relations, and are usually free of neurotic and psychosomatic symptoms. (2) Interpersonal relations are harmonious but casual. Impersonality is one of their more common traits. (3) An analytical interest in people is rare. (4) They avoid introspection and self‐examination. Insight is often shallow. This lack of self‐understanding makes them less perceptive of social nuances and relatively insensitive to the less obvious needs of others. (5) Engineers are straightforward, direct, and self‐sufficient. (6) They are inclined to be matter‐of‐fact and, outside their own field, are often unimaginative. Their attitudes are realistic, though their brand of realism deals more with surfaces than with depths. (7) Engineers are energetic. When faced with problems, they are advocates of the direct action approach. Polite diplomacy and oblique conciliatory tactics are foreign to their nature. (8) Most of them are goal‐oriented, serious‐minded, and conscientious. (9) They like phenomena to be definitely structured; there is a fundamental aversion to ambiguity. This fondness for structure and order may underline their essentially authoritarian approach. (10) Engineers have definitely masculine traits and interests. (11) Social participation is normal in amount. The explanation is more a matter of conventionality and social conformity than any profound interest in people. It is not true that engineers are usually introverts. What sometimes makes them appear so is their characteristic impersonality.
Group Situational Performance Tests: Their Uses and Construction*
Authors: COHEN EDWIN
Published: December 2006

A GROUP situational performance test is defined as a test measuring the performance of an ongoing group as a unit. This article summarizes some of the extensive research conducted on this type of test in military organizations. Group situational tests can be used in many ways: (1) as training devices, (2) to establish leadership criteria, (3) to determine training requirements, (4) to evaluate training and work procedures, and (5) to evaluate organizational structures. Problems connected with the construction, administration and scoring of these tests are discussed and some of the possibilities of the use of group situational performance tests in industrial situations are indicated.