bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multitasking the Davidson Algorithm for the Large, Sparse Eigenvalue Problem
Authors: Umar Verena Meiser , Fischer Charlotte Froese
Published: March 2007

The Davidson algorithm, which was developed for han dling the eigenvalue problem for large and sparse ma trices arising in quantum chemistry, was modified for use in atomic structure calculations. To date these cal culations have used traditional eigenvalue methods, which limit the range of feasible calculations because of their excessive memory requirements and unsatisfactory performance attributed to time-consuming and costly processing of zero valued elements. The replacement of a traditional matrix eigenvalue method by the Davidson algorithm reduced these limitations. Significant speedup was found, which varied with the size of the underlying problem and its sparsity. Furthermore, the range of ma trix sizes that can be manipulated efficiently was ex panded by more than one order of magnitude. On the CRAY X-MP the code was vectorized and the importance of gather/scatter analyzed. A parallelized version of the algorithm obtained an additional 35% reduction in exe cution time. Speedup due to vectorization and concur rency was also measured on the Alliant FX/8.
Flow Visualization in Computational Fluid Dynamics
Authors: Shirayama Susumu , Kuwahara Kunio
Published: March 2007

Several flow visualization techniques using the Lagran gian approach are proposed for analyzing the numerical solutions of unsteady flow fields computed by the Eu lerian approach. We show how these methods can be used to assess the validity of solutions and to extract the nature of the flow fields. The numerical algorithms for the flow solver and the flow visualization are introduced. The incompressible Navier-Stokes equations are solved using the extended MAC method and the compressible Euler equations are solved using the TVD MacCormack method. Most of the flow visualization methods are conventional. For vector fields, however, we introduce a particle tracing algorithm that is suitable for large amounts of numerical data. We present four flow visu alizations using these methods: flow past a circular cyl inder in two dimensions, shock wave propagation over a circular cylinder, flow past a sphere, and flow around an entire automobile.
Calculational Aspects of the Assessment of Dielectric Response Function and Energy Loss in Materials: Applications To Ice and Polyacetylene
Authors: Zaider Marco , Orr David E. , Fry John L.
Published: March 2007

Understanding the effects of low doses of ionizing radi ation on living systems requires detailed information on electron transport in biomaterials. This, in turn, can be obtained from the wave-vector- and frequency-depen dent dielectric response function of the system, ∈(q,ω), via the energy-loss function, Im[-1/∈( q,ω)]. We describe two different possible approaches to obtaining these functions, one based on the semiempirical tight-binding approximation, the other using Hedin's many-body treatment of quasiparticle states in solids. These methods are exemplified with calculations for cubic ice (as a model for cellular "structured" water) and trans- polyacetylene. The availability of supercomputers makes the application of these techniques feasible.
Simulations of Discrete Quantized Gravity
Authors: Hamber Herbert W.
Published: March 2007

According to Einstein's general theory of relativity, the geometric properties of space are related to the distri bution of matter and energy in the universe. In a quan tum-mechanical theory of gravitation the geometry of space and time is subject to strong fluctuations at ex tremely short distances. Traditional methods, based on perturbation theory, have difficulties in dealing with these highly nonlinear fluctuations. Discretized models for quantum gravity introduce a fine space-time mesh, and attempt to solve the fundamental equations using large-scale Monte Carlo simulations. We discuss some preliminary results obtained by applying these meth ods to a model for pure quantum gravity involving up to 983,040 edges in a four-dimensional lattice. A nu merical solution to these equations could provide an answer to some basic cosmological questions.
Molecular Simulations On Supercomputers
Authors: Brooks Charles L. , Young William S. , Tobias Douglas J.
Published: March 2007

Work from our laboratory using molecular dynamics applied to the study of peptide/protein folding dynam ics and thermodynamics in aqueous solution, and the exploration and development of molecular solvent in teraction models including electronic polarizability is described. The basic computational techniques we have used in developing algorithms for vector/parallel, shared memory, multiple instruction, multiple data (MIMD) and massively parallel single instruction, multi ple data (SIMD) architectures are discussed in the con text of these application areas. The technique we have used to parallelize the molecular dynamics/molecular mechanics code CHARMM is detailed, with special fo cus given to the performance issues faced in develop ing algorithms for the CRAY Y-MP. New developments of a molecular dynamics kernel for simulation of elec tronically polarizable solvent systems using a parallel- extended Fortran language (Fortran-9X) on the mas sively parallel Connection Machine (CM-2) are out lined. We provide examples of applications using both of these platforms and discuss the development of software for such simulations in a heterogeneous com putational environment.
The Travel Experience- Without the Travel
Authors: Metelka Charles J.
Published: March 2007

This section is intended to accommodate short viewpoints related to hospitality education and research, rejoinders, commentaries, and rebuttals on the contents of H.E.R. Manuscripts in this section are not refereed. However, the Editor reserves the right to evaluate materials for their applicability and usefulness. All manuscripts must be prepared in the appropriate Hospitality Education and Researh Journal style and not exceed 3,000 words.
Comparisons and Projections for Business School Hospitality Programs
Authors: Ittig Peter T.
Published: March 2007

This article reports results of a background study for a proposed baccalaureate hospitality program for a business school in a state university. Data were obtained through interviews with program directors of business school hospitality programs and program literature. The comparisons and projections reported here will be of interest to individuals working with or contemplating such a program. Key Words: Hospitality Programs, Business Schools.
Expectations of Hospitality Juniors and Seniors: Wave II
Authors: Knutson Bonnie J.
Published: March 2007

This paper presents findings from the second wave in a longitudinal study of juniors/seniors in the School of Hotel, Restaurant and Institutional Management at Michigan State University. Findings indicate: (1) a shift in the hierarchical ranking of the factors considered and the influences on the students' choice of a company for which to work aftergraduation, (2) apprehensions about working in the hospitality industry which center on perceived personal inadequacies and quality-of-life issues, (3) a "push-pull" theory about reasons why students believe they might leave their first company, and (4) differences in attitudes between hotel students and food service students.
The Hospitality Customer as Crime Victim: Recent Legal Research
Authors: Palmer Robert Alan
Published: March 2007

Courts are now forcing hospitality operators to assume greater responsibility for protecting guests from crime on their premises. The obligation to exercise reason able care for customer safety has been applied to hotels whose guests have been attacked by intruders, with courts giving close scrutiny to these hotels' security measures and how they compare to security policies in other hotels. Previous incidents of crime and location in a high-crime area are key factors in determining the extent of the hotelier's legal duty.
The Restaurant Simulation
Authors: Foucar-Szocki Reginald
Published: March 2007

The restaurant simulation is an opportunity for the hospitality student to assume the decision-making responsibilities of a restaurant manager while still being in the safe confines of the classroom. In this simulated management experience, the student makes various operational decisions including menu selection, pricing, scheduling, and marketing decisions. Based on these decisions a profit & loss statement is generated. By reviewing the P & L statements students see first hand the impact of their decisions on the profitability of their restaurant.
A Survey of Hrim Alumni : Were Their Expectations Met?
Authors: Knutson Bonnie J.
Published: March 2007

One hundred and fifty-four responded to a survey mailed to alumni of Michigan State University's School of Hotel, Restaurant and Institutional Management who graduated from 1982 to 1987 While the findings point to some areas for improve ment, the overall conclusion of the study is that the realities of working in the hospitality industry are living up to the expectations these alumni had when they graduated. Differences in response patterns between males and females, as well as between those in the hotel industry and food service industry are presented.
Commitment and Turnover in Resort Jobs
Authors: LaLopa Joseph M.
Published: March 2007

Self-reported data were analyzed from 300 non-supervisory resort employees to evaluate whether dealing with customers and a bona fide career interest would significantly increase the predictability of organizational commitment and turnover beyond that of resort job satisfaction. Voluntary turnover was tracked fora period of one year. Dealing with customers was significant in its positive correlation to organizational commitment. Resort job satisfaction and a bona fide career interest interacted when regressed on turnover such that those employees who were low on both variables were almost twice as likely to leave their jobs than those who were high on either one or both variables.
The Effects of Resource Scarcities and Agency Costs On the Choice of Organizational Form in the Us Restaurant Industry
Authors: Combs James G. , Ketchen David J.
Published: March 2007

Cooperative organizational forms such as franchising and joint venturing have long been popularamong hospitality chains. However, not all chains use cooperative organizational forms and those that do varygreatlyin theirproclivityto use them. One possible explanation for this variation is that when a chain confronts critical resourcescarcities, its managers will use cooperative organization in order to build upon the resources of their partners. However a second approach, agency theory, suggests that chain managers use cooperative organization to minimize the costs of monitor ing outlet managers. Using data on 94 restaurant chains, hypotheses are tested that investigate the independent and joint efficacy of these explanations. Results show that capital and brand name are important resources affecting the choice of organizational form whereas geographic dispersion, task programmability, and asset specificity are key agency variables. Overall, perhaps the key finding is that the ability of agency theory to explain organizational form is diminished among resource scarce chains. The results, therefore, suggest that both perspectives are needed to fully explain the choice of organizational form.
A Case Study Approach To Understanding the Impact of Information Technology On Competitive Advantage in the Lodging Industry
Authors: Cho Wonae , Olsen Michael D.
Published: March 2007

The lodging industry, along with most parts of the service sector, is making significant capital investment in information technology to improve the quality and efficiency of its business processes for the purpose of gaining competitive advantage. This study investi gates the impact of information technology on competitive advantage in the lodging indus try. This research uses a case study methodology to measure competitive advantage from information technology. The results indicate that the overall strategy of the lodging firm in fluences the impact of information technology on competitive advantage. More specifi cally, the asset holding and managing companies achieve a different type and level of com petitive advantage through information technology as compared to franchising lodging firms.
Ignitability of Rigid Foam Insulation
Authors: Hilado Carlos J. , Olcomendy Elaine M.
Published: March 2007

Various samples of rigid foam plastics used as thermal insulation were evaluated for resistance to ignition by radiant heat, using the screening test method developed at the University of San Francisco. The materials were phenolic, isocyanurate, and polystyrene rigid foams.

None of the four samples exhibited flaming ignition at heat flux levels up to 10.5 W/cm2 in the absence of a pilot flame. The glowing combustion exhibited by the phenolic foam may be a potential hazard.
Thermal Performance of Urethane Foam Pipe Insulation At Cryogenic Temperatures
Authors: Musgrave Dwight S.
Published: March 2007

An analytical and experimental investigation of a two layer urethane foam cryogenic piping insulation system was conducted to deter mine the system's thermal performance. Significant natural convection was found to occur at the urethane foam seams and between the layers. Also, analytical techniques to model cryogenic piping insulation systems were developed. These results led to the development of a thermally superior single-layer urethane foam insulation system which uses a fibrous glass gasketing material at the foam seams.
Implications for Evaluators from the Fort Bragg Evaluation 1
Authors: Bickman Leonard
Published: March 2007

This paper briefly describes an $80 million project designed to evaluate whether a coordinated continuum of mental health and substance abuse services for children and adolescents is more cost effective than services delivered in the more typical fragmented system. The evaluation examined the implementa tion and quality of the demonstration and the impact on service utilization, client satisfaction, clinical outcomes and cost. Several competing explanations for the results are described and implications for evaluators are discussed. The paper concludes with a discussion of the major evaluation lessons learned in this study.
Sport, Health and Physical Education: A Reconsideration
Authors: Waddington Ivan , Malcolm Dominic , Green Ken
Published: March 2007

This paper seeks to: (i) outline and critically evaluate the widely accepted idea that exercise and sport are beneficial for health; (ii) examine the different patterns of social relations associated with exercise and sport; (iii) examine some of the health consequences of these social differences; and (iv) explore the implications of this analysis for physical education. No simple generalisations can adequately encapsulate the complexity of the relationships between physical education, sport and health. In terms of their social relations and their consequences for health, we need to differentiate (i) between exercise and sport and (ii) between types and levels of sport, with the distinctions between contact and non-contact sport and between mass and elite sport being particularly important. In the case of rhythmic, non-competitive exercise, health benefits substantially outweigh health 'costs'. However, as we move from non-competitive exercise to competitive sport, and as we move from non-contact to contact sport, so health 'costs', in the form of injuries, begin to mount. Similarly, as we move from mass sport to elite sport, the constraints to train more intensively and to continue competing through pain and injury increase, with a concomitant increase in the health risks. The physical activities prioritised in the revised National Curriculum for Physical Education in England and Wales enforced by recent official and semi-official statements, are precisely those competitive and contact sports in which the health 'costs' are greatest while those activities which are marginalised within the physical education curriculum offer substantial health benefits with fewer health 'costs'. To the extent that they are successful, recent policy initiatives in relation to physical education are likely to work against the promotion of those forms of exercise which are most beneficial to health and thus hinder the promotion of health-related exercise in physical education.
Politics, Policy and Research Synthesis
Authors: Chelimsky Eleanor
Published: March 2007

Speeches and Addresses is an occasional feature, not in article format, in which presentations at conferences and other public gatherings are seen as likely to be of interest to a wider audience. Sometimes these speeches and addresses will undoubtedly be contentious, in which case responses and counter-arguments are to be expected and are welcome. Contributions to this section are intended to make accessible relevant material for academic, policy-making and practitioner audiences.

The following address is by Eleanor Chelimsky, who at the time it was given was Assistant Comptroller General for Program Evaluation and Methodology in the United States General Accounting Office. This was a 'Keynote Address' at the National Conference on Research Synthesis sponsored by the Russell Sage Foundation, Washington DC, in June 1994.
Shifting Paradigms
Authors: Morrissey Orla
Published: March 2007

This article examines the application of discourse analysis in the empirical context of learning technology innovation. It outlines the various theoretical and methodological principles, as well as the technical procedures which have been followed in relation to the operationalization of an evaluation design using discourse analysis. The study itself is concerned with stakeholders' subjective and experiential knowledge structures which underlie a culture of technology innovation. The article examines how technology innovation is discursively constituted through the creation of shared meanings and images among stakeholders.
Marriage, Intimate Support and Depression during Pregnancy
Authors: Gallagher Robert W. , Hobfoll Stevan E. , Ritter Christian , Lavin Justin
Published: March 2007

We examined the influence of stress, intimate support and marital status on postpartum depression among 189 African American and European American, inner-city women. We selected women in three common categories: (1) married, (2) cohabitating with partner, and (3) romantically involved, but not cohabitating. Women were interviewed on two occasions during pregnancy and seven to nine weeks following delivery. Women who were not married and did not live with their partner reported less intimacy with their partner and greater depression and increases in depression. Both marriage and cohabitation limited women’s depression level. Married women also increased in intimacy during their pregnancy, but cohabitating women did not. Results were independent of ethnic status, age and income. The importance of the findings given the rise in single parenthood was discussed.
The Curse of Inactivity
Authors: Gauvin Lise , Rejeski W. Jack , Norris James L. , Lutes Lesley
Published: March 2007

This laboratory experiment used random digit dialing procedures to recruit a community sample of physically inactive participants into a study that was designed to examine the impact of different intensities of acute aerobic exercise on feeling states. Sedentary men ( n 5 36) and women ( n 5 36) were randomly assigned to experience a single bout of aerobic exercise at one of three intensities (30%, 50%, 70% of HRR). Each participant attended two counterbalanced laboratory sessions, one involving an attention-control manipulation and the other involving aerobic exercise. Before and after each session, they completed a feeling state questionnaire. Data suggested that there were neither widespread mood-enhancing effects of acute exercise nor evidence for a strong dose-response relationship.
Identity and Meaning in the Experience of Cancer
Authors: Shapiro Sharon , Angus Lynne , Davis Christine
Published: March 2007

The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the experiences of three women breast-cancer survivors and the associated experiences of their partners. Individual in-depth interviews were conducted using a narrative approach, and the six accounts were analysed using the grounded theory method. The results describe the marked variation in the meaning of the experience among the participants, and the perceived change in each woman’s identity from prior to her cancer diagnosis to the time of the interview. The findings are presented in three sections: (1) Three Narrative Themes, the themes, Back to ‘Normal’, Rebirth and Turning Point, that represent the perceived change in each woman’s identity; (2) The Construction of Meaning, the shared characteristics that relate to meaning construction and identity; (3) Integration, the integration in each self-narrative of past and present self-understandings. The findings are compared with the existing literature, and the implications of different interpretations of self and change in the cancer experience are discussed. The limitations of the study are discussed with recommendations for future research.
The Vicissitudes of Neurasthenia in Chinese Societies: Where Will It Go From the ICD-10?
Authors: Lee Sing
Published: March 2007

This essay begins with the position that the controversy between Chinese and Western researchers over the nosological status of neurasthenia arises logically from their discrepant epistemological theories of disease. Next, it traces Chinese psychiatrists' continued effort to reorganize neurasthenia in a tradition that not only conforms substantively to Western cultural assumptions but also results in its transformation into the pro fessional discourse of "depressive neurosis. " Evidence is then gathered to show that the ICD-10 construal of neurasthenia as a chronic fatigue disorder misrepresents the inherently variegated illness experience of Chinese neurasthenic patients and may, ironically, commit a category fallacy. A plea for considering illness experi ence in psychiatric taxonomies ends the paper.
Trance and Possession: Are They The Same?
Authors: Halperin Daniel
Published: March 2007

An argument is made for the unthreading of two separate, if commonly intertwined, elements of spirit possession prac tices. The term "trance-possession" is frequently employed to designate either of these concepts, implying that trance and possession are essentially synonymous in nature. Yet the psychophysiologically altered states of consciousness known as trance constitute something fundamentally different from cultural beliefs and practices concerning possession. Although some researchers have noted this distinction, many writers on possession typically, if inadvertently, contribute to clouding the issue. Such confusion reinforces the commonly-held as sumption by lay persons and others that a culturally-defined state of possession must, de facto, indicate the presence of a physiologically altered state. The juxtaposition and integration of psychophysiological analyses of trance phenomena with ethnographic interpretations of spirit possession constitutes a fruitful area for further investigation.
Backache in Greek Immigrants to Sweden: A Cultural Interpretative Approach
Authors: Löfvander Monica B. , Furhoff Anna-Karin
Published: March 2007

Scandinavian medical methods for treating musculoskeletal pain have often proved unsuccessful with immigrant patients. This study examined the perception and meanings of back pain among Greek immigrants to Sweden to identify possible causes of this poor outcome. Fifteen Greek immigrant patients on long-term sick-leave because of backache and 21 strategi cally selected members of a Greek cultural association in Stockholm, Sweden, not on sick-leave received semi-structured interviews about backache. In addition to a content analysis, a cultural approach was used in the interpretation of the mate rial. On the whole, pain was considered as something dangerous, inevitably leading to permanent disability if the suf ferer should deliberately aggravate the pain. Persistent pain was also linked to the tendency to worry and obsess in a way that would eventually make one ill. There was little confidence in doctors' examinations and physiotherapy. The study provides a possible explanation as to why Scandinavian medical treat ment of backache is less successful in this immigrant group.
Exceptional Protection: The Way Ahead— A Developing Country Perspective
Authors: Rajapatirana Sarath
Published: March 2007

By exceptional protection is meant antidumping, safeguards and countervailing duty protection. Exceptional protection is very much in the front burner of the reform agenda seen at the multilateral level; at the plurilateral level since the fastest increase in exceptional protection is found among regional trading partners; and at the individual developing country level, as it attempts to increase the efficiency of domestic resources and tap into new resources and technology from the rest of the world. In this article we seek to address the main issues related to exceptional pro tection and suggest a way forward to address some of the issues that arise in this area, in particular with a view to a new round of multilateral trade negations.
Developments in Strategies Used for Natural and Mechanical Ventilation in China
Authors: Li A.G. , Jones P.J.
Published: March 2007

Ventilation design has a long history in China. The ancient pioneers used engineering skills to change the indoor environment. In this review, basic natural ventila tion design ideas are introduced from both a historical and modern viewpoint. Attention is paid to new natural ventilation system developments, such as the design and testing of natural ventilation inlets and outlets for the stack and solar chimneys. Theoretical aspects of ventila tion design are also considered. Today, the use of me chanical ventilation systems in China is growing for both domestic and non-domestic buildings. The use of mixed- mode or hybrid ventilation systems as a response to needs for indoor comfort and energy efficiency is in creasing, and such systems are now widely used.
Modelling of Emissions of Total Volatile Organic Compounds in an Australian House
Authors: Guo Hai , Murray Frank
Published: March 2007

A simplified indoor air quality (IAQ) model has been applied to predict IAQ in an Australian house, using envi ronmental chamber measurements of source strengths, house ventilation and room size. Total volatile organic compounds (TVOCS) was used as the model pollutant in this study. The validity of the IAQ model was initially assessed by comparing model predictions with mea surements in the house over a period of time. The root mean square error between the measured and predicted values was 0.039. This model explains 57% of the poten tial for error. The TVOC concentrations measured in the conventional house ranged from 60 to 162 μg.m-3 . These values are much lower than some published val ues (0.48-31.7 mg.m-3) for new houses in Scandinavian countries and in the USA. The low TVOC concentrations obtained in this study probably result from the high ven tilation rates in this conventional house and the use of low TVOC emission materials.
Monitoring the Indoor Environment in the Czech Republic
Authors: Kotlík B. , Kazmarová H. , Kratenová J. , Holcátová I.
Published: March 2007

Most of the existing studies on health effects from expo sure to pollutants are limited in their scope. In an attempt at a more holistic approach the Government of the Czech Republic implemented a decree entitled 'A System of Monitoring Environmental Impacts on Health of the Pop ulation of the Czech Republic'. A monitoring system comprising six parts was set up to provide data neces sary for a national policy for health and protection of the environment. This paper describes work carried out on a cohort of kindergarten children in Brno, Hradec Králové, Ostrava and Plzeń under the subsystem of the decree: 'health consequences and risks related to air pollution'. It was found that 20% of the children monitored had long- term respiratory complaints, which, potentially, could be associated with the quality of indoor air. There were no differences between the towns, sex or age of the children related to these health problems. The study looked at various domiciliary factors including type and structure of housing, heating system, use of gas cookers, new fur niture and carpets, presence of mould, pet animals and smoking indoors. Surprisingly, in families with sick chil dren, there were fewer pets and also fewer smokers.
Indoor Air Quality Assessment in an Underground Parking Facility
Authors: El Fadel M. , Alameddine I. , Kazopoulo M. , Hamdan M. , Nasrallah R.
Published: March 2007

This paper presents an indoor air quality (IAQ) assess ment in a representative underground parking facility (UPF) using carbon monoxide and volatile organic com pounds as IAQ indicators. For this purpose, concentra tions of both pollutants were measured at different time intervals throughout the day. Vehicular emission factors (EFs) were estimated using the EMFAC7F1.1 model. A transient mass balance model was then applied to con struct concentration profiles. The ventilation rates re quired to maintain pollutant concentrations within ac ceptable standards were estimated under maximum UPF occupancy, and a sensitivity analysis was con ducted to evaluate the effect of changes in EMFAC7F1.1 input parameters on EFs and ventilation rates.
Impact of Ultraviolet Radiation on Humans
Authors: Césarini J.P.
Published: March 2007

Solar radiation, including its ultraviolet (UV) compo nents, is a key factor in life on earth. While small quanti ties of UV are beneficial for people (for example, through the production of vitamin D), the considerable amount to which people sometimes expose themselves may have extremely noxious effects including actinic erythema, sunburn, photo-induced diseases, photo-worsened dis eases, actinic ageing and skin cancers. Since the last cen tury, human exposure to UV has increased either by social-behaviour modifications, or by anthropogenic dis ruption to the environment through, among other things, industrial development. The World Health Organisa tion's (WHO) INTERSUN programme has several com ponents: action for reconstruction of the ozone layer through, for example, preventing dumping of chloro fluorocarbons; creation and popularisation of a global UV Index; prevention campaigns underlining the risks from UV exposure including dissemination of informa tion to daily newspapers. These are all aimed at reducing the amount of UV radiation that people receive. In addi tion the WHO advises against exposure to UV artificial sources to reduce overall the quantity of UV received.
Formaldehyde Levels and the Factors Affecting These Levels in Homes in Perth, Western Australia
Authors: Dingle P. , Franklin P.
Published: March 2007

Formaldehyde is a highly irritant gas commonly encoun tered in indoor environments. Domestic levels of formal dehyde may vary with building practices and climate and the aim of the present study was to investigate formalde hyde levels in 185 homes in Perth, Australia. The formal dehyde was monitored using a validated passive sam pling technique. Levels were measured in four rooms of each house (living room, kitchen and large and small bedrooms). In 160 homes the monitoring was repeated 4-7 months later in a different season to the original measurement. It was found that within homes there was no significant difference in formaldehyde concentrations measured in the four rooms. For the first sampling peri od, the geometric mean of the average household con centration (average of the four rooms) for all homes was 22.8 ppb and ranged from 3.0 to 92.3 ppb. Only the age of the house (p < 0.0001) and the season of monitoring (p < 0.0001) were significant predictors of indoor levels, high er levels in newer homes and in homes monitored in summer. Mean concentrations were lower during the fol low-up monitoring, but only in houses that were less than 10 years old or in houses that were initially moni tored in summer. Overall formaldehyde concentrations were low and rarely exceeded the Australian guideline level of 100 ppb. There seemed to be good inter-room mixing of formaldehyde within homes. Concentrations were significantly affected by season and age of the house.
Novel Technique for Measuring Low Molecular Weight Chemicals in Indoor Dust
Authors: Nilsson Anders , Nosratabadi Ali Reza , Lagesson Verner , Murgia Nicola , Leanderson Per , Tagesson Christer
Published: March 2007

A new technique is described which can measure low molecular weight compounds adsorbed onto dust parti cles in a simple yet accurate way. The technique, gas chromatography-ultraviolet spectrometry (GC-UV), com prises a one-stage thermal desorption oven, a gas flow cell with a miniaturised GC column, and a nitrogen- flushed photo diode array (PDA) detector for fast UV spectra recording. The dust sample is thermally de sorbed in the oven and the compounds released are flushed onto the GC column by means of a carrier gas stream. The separated compounds are then registered by the PDA detector and identified by their characteristic gas-phase UV spectra. This method enables the analysis of volatile organic as well as inorganic compounds ad sorbed onto dust particles, many of which are difficult to analyse together in one single analysis using conven tional methods. For example, both nitric oxide and am monia can be analysed, as well as hydrogen sulphide, pyridine, 2-furaldehyde, 2-methylfuran, and isoprene. It is concluded that GC-UV may be used as an alternative or to complement other methods for measuring chemi cals in indoor dusts, thus improving survey and control of the human exposure to particle-bound irritants and other chemicals.
Health Problems of Garbage Collectors in Istanbul
Authors: Issever Halim , Gul Hulya , Erelel Mustafa , Erkan Feyza , Gungor Gunay Yilmaz
Published: March 2007

Diseases from poisonous gases and micro-organisms in the air near garbage dumps and poisoning by polluted underground water and soil may result in serious health problems. The object of this study was to determine the negative impact of their occupation on full-time garbage collectors and to determine the microbiologic flora of their immediate environment. This study was performed with 228 selected individuals who worked daily in 5 dif ferent garbage collection units in several districts of Istanbul. The level of exposure to microbiologic flora was studied using a Merck Air Sampler MAS 100, and total bacteria, yeast and mildew concentrations per square metre and minute (cfu/m2/min) were calculated. Respiratory functions of all individuals in the study were evaluated with a computerised spirometer (MIR spiro bank). Aspergillus and Penicillium spp. were the com monest species detected followed by Candida spp., My celia sterilia, Rhizopus spp. and Mucorspp. The study of respiratory functions showed that the FVC%, FEV1%, PEF% and FEF25-75% of the garbage collectors were below 80% compared to non-collectors: OR = 2.89 (95% CI 1.14-7.30) in FVC%, OR = 2.89 (95% CI 1.41-5.92) in PEF%, OR = 2.46 (95% CI 1.33-4.56) in FEF25-75% and OR = 4.48 (95% CI 1.90-10.58) in FEV1%. A long expirium period and ronchus symptoms were detected in 11 col lectors (31.4%) and 4 drivers (11.4%) out of 32 collectors and 35 drivers whose respiratory function tests gave low values. Clinical findings between the two groups were statistically significant (p < 0.05), OR = 4.06 (95% CI 1.13- 14.46). The exposure to airborne microbes could pro duce respiratory disorders, gastroenteritis, dermatitis and many other complaints.
Comparing Turbulence Models for Buoyant Plume and Displacement Ventilation Simulation
Authors: Chen Qingyan , Chao Nien-Tzu
Published: March 2007

Computational fluid dynamics may be used to predict the details of airflow in rooms served by displacement ventilation systems, provided a suitable turbu lence model can be found. Since buoyant plumes are central to the displace ment ventilation strategy, four turbulence models - three eddy-viscosity mod els (the 'standard' k-ε model, a modified k-ε model, and an RNG k-ε model) and the Reynolds stress model - were applied to simulate airflow in a turbu lent buoyant plume. Corresponding experimental data from the literature were used for validation, although for a plume stronger than expected in rooms as no reliable plume data for room air flow were found. The Reynolds stress model predicted velocity, temperature, and turbulence quantities satis factorily while the eddy-viscosity models performed poorly. The eddy-viscosi ty models were then applied to predict airflow in a furnished room with dis placement ventilation. The computed airflow patterns, mean velocities, tem peratures, and contaminant concentrations agree reasonably well with the experimental data obtained from a full-scale test chamber, but the discrepan cies in some locations were large.
Problems of the Air Quality Regulations in the Ukraine
Authors: Dobrovolsky L.A.
Published: March 2007

The difficulties of adopting the air quality standards of the previous adminis tration in the Ukraine are described in this communication. The problems result from the current harsh economic situation and the earlier lack of policy for the indoor environment in dwellings. Over the last few years, National Laws concerning public health, labour protection and the control of atmos pheric air pollution have been established. They provide the legal basis for working out the national indoor and outdoor air quality standards. These stan dards have to consider not only chemical species, but also many hazardous physical and biological factors.
Review : The Management of Pesticide Exposure in Greenhouses
Authors: Illing H. Paul A.
Published: March 2007

The principles of risk assessment and risk management have been applied to the use of pesticides in greenhouses. Pesticide efficacy and safety require con sideration of a number of exposure scenarios, and the optimal management procedure may need to take into account more than one of these. Worker exposure may occur during pesticide spraying and the subsequent handling of plant material. Exclusion and the wearing of personal protective equipment are occupational hygiene practices that are used to control human uptake aris ing from these exposures. The principal factor affecting exposure levels in air and their decay is the ventilation characteristics of the greenhouse, and is therefore site-specific. As the principal route of exposure of workers is dermal, and rates of penetration of pesticide through protective clothing vary, choice of protective clothing is also important. This paper demonstrates that there is a need for site-specific occupational hygiene advice when undertaking work in greenhouses.
Physiological Responses to Elevated Carbon Dioxide Levels in Buildings
Authors: Stricker Saul , Bourgeau Marc , Fonberg Eric , Parent Denis
Published: March 2007

Comparative tests were conducted involving 22 persons sleeping in a normal and in an elevated carbon dioxide (CO2) environment to determine respirato ry and urinary responses. Carbon dioxide levels in bedrooms with 2 occupants with the bedroom doors and windows closed can rise to 4,500 ppm during the night. The results indicate that the exposure levels encountered in these bedrooms do not affect the respiratory response, and that urine pH levels are independent of room CO2 levels, and somewhat dependent on diet. Since the buffering mechanism by the kidneys involves the release of phosphate for buffering, exposure to moderately elevated CO2 levels for several hours at a time may affect the excretion of phosphate and the metabolism of bone in the body. The literature indicates that persons exposed to 10,000 ppm over a peri od of several weeks experience a measurable bone loss. The threshold ambient level of CO2 at which this effect begins to take place and degree are not known.
A Study of the Atmospheric Pollution Produced by Vehicles in Car Parks in Madrid, Spain
Authors: Morillo P. , Dos Santos S.G. , Santamaría J. , Diez Hernández P. , Diaz Ramiro E. , Mendez J. , Fernández Patier R.
Published: March 2007

The levels of different atmospheric pollutants present in two designs of car parks (with low or high vehicle occupancy) in Madrid, Spain, have been ana lysed. In both types of park, the concentrations of thoracic particles, lead, poly cyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide measured were potential ly dangerous to health. Control of the intensity of the ventilation based only on the concentration of carbon monoxide measurements in the car parks is not sufficient to control the level of other pollutants emitted by vehicles.
The Effect of Indoor Foliage Plants on Health and Discomfort Symptoms among Office Workers
Authors: Fjeld Tove , Veiersted Bo , Sandvik Leiv , Riise Geir , Levy Finn
Published: March 2007

Indoor plantings are widely used in building environments though little is known regarding the way office workers respond to indoor foliage plants. The objective of the present study was to assess the effect of foliage plants in the office on health and symptoms of discomfort among office personnel. A cross over study with randomised period order was conducted; one period with plants in the office and one period without. A questionnaire consisting of 12 questions related to neuropsychological symptoms, mucous membrane symp toms and skin symptoms was distributed among the 51 healthy subjects who participated in the study. It was found that the score sum of symptoms was 23% lower during the period when subjects had plants in their offices com pared to the control period. (Mean score sum was 7.1 during the period with out plants vs. 5.6 during the period with plants.) Complaints regarding cough and fatigue were reduced by 37 and 30%, respectively, if the offices contained plants. The self-reported level of dry/hoarse throat and dry/itching facial skin each decreased approximately 23% when plants were present. Overall, a sig nificant reduction was obtained in neuropsychological symptoms and mucous membrane symptoms, while skin symptoms seemed to be unaffected by the presence of plants. The results from this study suggest that an improvement in health and a reduction in symptoms of discomfort may be obtained after intro duction of foliage plants into the office environment.
The Use of Diffusive Samplers for the Measurement of Volatile Organic Compounds in the Indoor Air of 44 Homes in Southampton
Authors: Brown Veronica M. , Crump Derrick R.
Published: March 2007

Diffusive sampling using tube-type adsorbent samplers can be applied to the measurement of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the air of homes and outdoors. In the present study samplers packed with Tenax TA have been used to investigate VOCs in the air of 44 homes and at 4 outdoor locations in the Southampton area of the UK as part of a study of the effects of measures for the alleviation of the symptoms of asthma. These measures included installa tion of mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) systems in 20 of the homes. No significant changes in concentrations of 6 VOCs (benzene, toluene, xylene, decane, 1,2,4-trimethylbenzene and undecane) were observed following the MVHR installation. A range of other VOCs found in the homes is identified using mass spectrometry. Twelve different compounds were found to occur as the dominant peak in the chromatogram in one or more indoor air samples, whilst 63 different compounds appeared amongst the 10 biggest peaks.
The Investigation of Fungal Spores in Intramural Air Using a Burkard Continuous Recording Air Sampler
Authors: Stern M.A. , Allitt U. , Corden J. , Millington W.
Published: March 2007

A newly developed air sampler, the Burkard Continuous Recording Air Sampler, was used to investigate airborne fungal spores in different rooms inside three different houses. Airborne fungal spores were also trapped at roof-top level using Burkard Recording Volumetric Spore Traps. Spores caught by both traps were identified visually, not by cultural methods. A detailed comparison was made of the concentrations of airborne fungal spores caught by the two types of trap in the four spore categories: total spores, Cladosporium, Sporobolo myces and Aspergillus/Penicillium. In general, extramu ral spore concentrations were greater than intramural concentrations, except when there was an internal source of spores. There were different levels of concen trations in different rooms at different times depending on factors such as substrates for fungal growth, occu pancy, state of ventilation, and the presence of ionisers. The performances of the two types of trap were also compared outdoors, but under cover: their performance was similar, except for very small spores.
Studies on Airborne Fungal Spores from Two Indoor Cowsheds of Suburban and Rural Areas of West Bengal, India
Authors: Adhikari Atin , Sen Moon Moon , Gupta-Bhattacharya Swati , Chanda Sunirmal
Published: March 2007

Indian cowsheds are generally places with high humidity where raw and decomposing cow- dung, straw, livestock foods, and other materials provide suitable substrates for the growth of fungi. The frequency of appearance and concentration of airborne fungal spores from two indoor cowsheds, one suburban (Kestapur) and the other from a rural area (Konnagar) in West Bengal, have been record ed and measured. A total of 29 airborne spore types were recorded from the rural cowshed and a total of 24 from the suburban area. In both places a relatively high fre quency of Cladosporium sp., Aspergillus/Penicillium group, Periconia sp., Nigrospora sp., and some unidenti fied ascospores and basidiospores were recorded. To identify viable airborne fungal spores, Petri plates with Czapec-Dox agar medium were exposed at the same time in each place. Results obtained showed a preva lence of Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, and Cla dosporium cladosporioides. Meteorological factors were compared at the two sites and statistically correlated with the records of both culturable and non-culturable mould spores to find out their impact on spore release and dispersal. Skin-prick tests were performed with anti genic extracts prepared from the mass culture of fungi on people who were either occupationally involved or used to visit the sheds. These tests revealed several instances of high level of allergenicity.
Dissident Views of the Sociological Craft
Authors: Roth Julius A.
Published: March 2007

It is the different modes of research procedure rather than formal theoretical orientations which splits American sociology and social psychology into conflicting "schools". True, defenses of and attacks upon the theoretical underpinnings of "structural-functionalism", "symbolical interactionism", and several psychologistic approaches contribute a number of contentious papers each year. But these debates appear to have little effect on the research practices of the vast majority of working sociological researchers who can justifiably be described as eclectic in their systems of explanation and generalisation. On the other hand, when sociologists and social psychologists select their modes of data collection, processing, and analysis, they are much more likely to place themselves in one of the contending schools which sees its research practices as the more valid or more useful and points out the deficiences of its rivals.