bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection of Debonding Damage in a Composite Plate through Natural Frequency Variations
Authors: Paolozzi Antonio , Peroni Isidoro
Published: March 2007

In the present paper several finite element models suitable for delamina tion damage analysis have been used. Frequency shift diagrams for modes up to 24 with severity of damage up to 15 % have been studied. A correlation between the peaks in the diagrams reporting frequency shifts vs. order of the mode, and the extension of the delami nation is proposed. It is also pointed out the different behaviour of the sensitivities in rela tion with the kind of damage: delamination or thickness reduction. Finally the cross-over phenomenon is shown.
Strength of Notched and Unnotched Graphite/Epoxy Laminates Loaded in Compression
Authors: Eriksson Ingvar
Published: March 2007

An experimental program is conducted to assess the effects of geometry and ply orientation on the failure of notched and unnotched laminates which are subjected to uniaxial compressive loading. The mechanisms by which failure occurs are determined from a macroscopic point of view. The results show that several mechanisms (in-plane damage, delamination, ply buckling, and laminate buckling) interact to cause ultimate fail ure of the laminate. Important factors affecting the strength are identified. An approach is presented to systematically characterize the strength by these factors The usefulness of the approach in design is demonstrated.
Optimum Design of Composite Laminates for Strength by Ranking
Authors: Rao K.P. , Cherian Issac Jason , Viswanath S. , Sridhara Murthy S.
Published: March 2007

In this paper we describe a method for the optimum design of fiber rein forced composite laminates for strength by ranking. The software developed based on this method is capable of designing laminates for strength; which are subjected to inplane and/or bending loads and optionally hygrothermal loads. Symmetric laminates only are considered which are assumed to be made of repeated sublaminate construction. Various layup schemes are evaluated based on the laminated plate theory and quadratic failure cri terion for the given mechanical and hygrothermal loads. The optimum layup sequence in the sublaminate and the number of such sublaminates required are obtained. Further, a ply-drop round-off scheme is adopted to arrive at an optimum laminate thickness. As an example, a family of 0/90/45/ -45 bi-directional lamination schemes are examined for dif ferent types of loads and the gains in optimising the ply orientations in a sublaminate are demonstrated.
Flow Characteristics of Sheet Molding Compound in Panels with Integrated Ribs
Authors: Kia Hamid G.
Published: March 2007

A series of experiments was conducted using two different formulations of sheet molding compound (SMC) materials in an instrumented ribbed mold with outside dimensions of 750 x 600 x 410 mm. The experiments showed that the flow of the material into the ribs (side flow) takes place long before the completion of the flow parallel to the flat surfaces of the mold (radial flow). This observation is in contrast to the general belief that the side flow starts after the completion of the radial flow. Also, the analysis of the data from the thermocouples showed that the rib filling takes place through a "bridging and looping" mechanism as well as "concurrent flow." The above findings were verified using short-shot moldings under various conditions. In these short-shot experiments the plaques were solidified at different stages of the flow and, hence, provided informative evidence with regard to the nature of the flow during the compression molding of SMC. The data from the pressure transducers showed that while the radial flow is in progress, the internal pressure in the material increases to a level high enough to cause the side flow into the ribs. It was then concluded that if the pressure in the vicinity of the radial flow front is artificially increased it will promote the "concurrent flow." This type of flow is im portant because our previous studies have shown that it would lead to a reduction in rib readout.
Mechanics of Curved Fiber Composites
Authors: Rai H.G. , Rogers C.W. , Crane D.A.
Published: March 2007

This paper investigates the effect of fiber waviness on the behavior of carbon-epoxy composites. A theoretical elastic model is developed to predict lamina modulus of elasticity as a function of fiber waviness and is used in an incremental loading scheme to predict the general stress-strain response. This theoretical response is found to be nonlinear in the same fashion as the experimental, measured response.
Mechanical Behavior and Fracture Mechanism in Flat Braided Composites. Part 2: Braided Flat Bar with a Circular Hole
Authors: Fujita Akihiro , Maekawa Zenichiro , Hamamda Hiroyuki , Yokoyama Atsushi
Published: March 2007

Tensile behaviors of braided flat bar with a circular hole being joint part in the structural member are discussed. Moreover, the possibility of the application to structural member with braiding construction for this analysis method is clarified by com paring predicted results with experimental results. The braided flat bar with braided hole has more superior tensile properties than that with machined hole fabricated for compari son. For the numerical analysis, the estimated results well agree with the experimental results, and it is clear that this analysis method may be applied to the estimations of the mechanical properties of structural members with braiding construction.
Removal of Surface Loop from Stitched Composites Can Improve Compression and Compression-after-Impact Strengths
Authors: Farley Gary L. , Dickinson Larry C.
Published: March 2007

Stitching through-the-thickness (TTT) of composite materials produces a surface loop of yarn between successive penetrations. The surface loop is pressed into the surface layers of the composite material during the curing of the laminate, kinking the in plane fibers near the surface of the material. The compression strength and compression- after-impact (CAI) strengths of carbon-epoxy specimens were measured with and without the surface loop. Removal of the surface loop had no influence on failure mode or failure mechanism, but did significantly increase the compression and CAI strengths.
Compression Response of Thick Layer Composite Laminates with Through-the-Thickness Reinforcement
Authors: Farley Gary L. , Smith Barry T. , Maiden Janice
Published: March 2007

Compression and compression-after-impact (CAI) tests were conducted on seven different AS4-3501-6 [0/90] 0.64-cm thick composite laminates. Four of the seven laminates had through-the-thickness (TTT) reinforcement fibers. Two TTT reinforcement methods, stitching and integral weaving, and two reinforcement fibers, Kevlar and carbon, were used. The remaining three laminates were made without TTT reinforcements and were tested to establish a baseline for comparison with the laminates having TTT rein forcement. Six of the seven laminates consisted of nine thick layers whereas the seventh material was composed of 46 thin plies. The use of thick-layer material has the potential for reducing structural part cost because of the reduced part count (layers of material).
A Simultaneous Lay-Up and in situ Cure Process for Thick Composites
Authors: White S.R. , Kim C.
Published: March 2007

A progressive lay-up and in situ cure process is presented for manufactur ing thick polymeric composite structures. Manufacturing cycle times can be reduced sig nificantly, since this process combines the lay-up and curing. Also, the material degrada tion due to thermal spiking which is generally very large in thick-section composites can be avoided, depending on the judicious selection of process variables such as cure temper ature, ambient temperatures, and material supply rate. A one-dimensional combined thermo-chemical heat transfer model was developed and solved numerically in order to monitor the cure, temperature distributions, and thermal spiking through the thickness. In order to validate the analysis, 12 mm thick graphite/epoxy (AS4/3501-6) plates were manu factured by the current process and were scanned by DSC (differential scanning calorim eter). The predicted temperature and degree of cure profiles are compared with experi ments. Both results are in good agreement which confirms the accuracy of this cure simulation study. Both graphite/epoxy and glass/polyester systems are investigated in this article.
Probabilistic Methods for the Calculation of Laminate Properties
Authors: Mcmanus H.L.
Published: March 2007

A method for calculating the properties of advanced composite laminates, including their variations due to known variations in the properties of the individual plies and the laminate geometry, is presented. The method is useful for understanding scatter in the measured properties of composite laminates. This scatter is particularly important in the design of ultra-low coeflicient of thermal expansion ( CTE) laminates. Such lami nates are designed with a theoretically zero CTE, but in practice have a distribution of non- zero CTEs. Information useful for designing ultra-low expansion laminates is discussed. A practical limit on how close to zero the CTE of a laminate can be assumed to be is found.
Analysis of Shear Instability in Compression Due to Fibre Waviness
Authors: Wisnom Michael R.
Published: March 2007

A non-linear finite element analysis of compression of unidirectional car bon fibre-epoxy with fibre waviness has been carried out. Beam elements were used to model the fibres, and plane stress elements were used to represent the transverse and shear properties of the composite. Non-linear shear stress-strain response, fibre bending stiff ness, large deflections, and the rotation of the material axes due to both shear strain and rigid body rotation were included in the analysis.
Recycled Newspaper Fibers as Reinforcing Fillers in Thermoplastics: Part I-Analysis of Tensile and Impact Properties in Polypropylene
Authors: Sanadi A.R. , Young R.A. , Clemons C. , Rowell R.M.
Published: March 2007

Recycled newspaper fibers (ONP) are potentially outstanding nonabrasive reinforcing fibers with high specific properties. In this study, a high energy thermokinetic mixer was used to mix these fibers in a polypropylene (PP) matrix, and the blends were then injection molded in order to observe the tensile and impact strengths of the compos ites. A 40% (weight) of ONP in PP resulted in a tensile strength of 34.1 MPa and an un notched Izod impact strength of 112 J/m. Small quantities of maleic anhydride-grafted polypropylene (MAPP) and acrylic acid-grafted polypropylene (AAPP) were used to im prove the interaction between the hydrophobic PP and the highly polar fibers. The im provement in properties by using MAPP depended on the amount of maleic anhydride in the graft copolymer and the molecular weight of the copolymer. Tensile strengths as high as 57 MPa and an unnotched Izod impact strength of 212 J/m were achieved with the addi tion of one of the MAPP, while smaller improvements were found with AAPP Reinforcing efficiencies and scanning electron microscopy have been utilized to aid in the analysis.
Effects of Arbitrarily Shaped Fibers on Moisture Diffusion Coefficients of Polymeric Composites
Authors: Aditya P.K. , Sinha P.K.
Published: March 2007

In an earlier investigation [2], the effects of the regular fiber shapes (circu lar and elliptical) on the diffusion coefficients of the polymeric composites have been stud ied. There exist several types of reinforcing fibers, e.g., PAN, rayon, pitch precursor based carbon fibers, which may have completely arbitrary and unsymmetrical shapes. All regular fiber shapes are generated by the standard equations. But for irregular shapes, no such governing equations are available. In this investigation, these irregular shapes are generated using the cubic spline theory. The diffusion coefficients are then evaluated for single fiber composite models, reinforced with impermeable fibers of irregular shapes and having different fiber volume fractions. The shapes are found to influence the results con siderably.
The Mixed Mode Fracture Analysis of Unidirectional Composites
Authors: Yeh Hsien-Yang , Kim Chang H.
Published: March 2007

The generalized Yeh-Stratton criterion is applied to an angled crack prob lem of unidirectional fibrous composites with a crack oriented in the fiber direction under uniaxial tensile load. The fracture stresses and the fracture angles are computed, and the predictions are compared with the available experimental data.
Finite Element Analysis of Laminated Composite Stiffened Shell
Authors: Goswami S. , Mukhopadhyay M.
Published: March 2007

Composite stiffened shells have been analysed with the help of two dif ferent elements—a nine-noded Lagrangian isoparametric element and the Heterosis ele ment. Both the elements have the advantages of accommodating curved boundaries and in corporating shear deformation. In the formulation, the stiffener need not be placed along the nodal line as it takes care of the placement of the stiffener anywhere within the shell element. This makes the modelling more flexible. Concentric and eccentric stiffened com posite shells have been analysed with the help of these two elements. The results obtained on the basis of these two have been compared. Parametric studies of the different variables have been conducted.
Parametric Modeling of Moisture Assisted Creep in Polymeric Composites
Authors: Upadhyay P.C. , Mishra A.
Published: March 2007

This paper is concerned with the development of a simple mechanical model for studying the effect of moisture absorption on the creep performance of polymeric composites. It is based on the application of Kelvin-Voight model generally used for viscoelastic materials. Moisture diffusion is assessed using a Fickean solution, and the property changes in composites due to moisture absorption are estimated using linear empirical relations. A parametric study has been performed to bring out the relative effects of material parameters, level of moisture, the elastic modulus, viscous modulus and the volume fraction (swelling) of the polymer due to moisture absorption. Results are pre sented with the help of non-dimensional plots of compliance variation with time. Since the material parameters are also expressed in non-dimensional form, findings and conclusions are not restricted to any particular composite.
Comprehensive What? Coordination of Whom? Rural AAA's and the Planning Mandate
Authors: Lohmann Roger A.
Published: March 2007

The rural area agency on aging does not (and cannot) engage in effective social planning. It is overwhelmed by responsibility for sub-state decision making. Several characteristics of present AAA planning are identified, including plan preparation, rationalized decision making, sub-state decision making and needs meeting. Widespread acceptance of the legitimacy of AAA plan ning goals has generated three alternative approaches which are termed the "case-management, " "interorganizational" and "community structure" approaches. Effective rural planning for the aged might combine elements of these approaches in an effective regional planning strategy.
Rural-Urban Differences in the Physical and Mental Health of Older Adults1
Authors: Kivett Vira R.
Published: March 2007

This study determined whether differences could be observed in the health status and morale of older rural adults living within an area of rural to urban change and older urban adults. Results showed no differences in the perceived health status of urban and rural elderly, in the number of days sick or hospitalized, physical ability to get around, type of health problems, hearing, or morale. Important differences were found in income, education, employment, marital status, and race. The data caution against the use of broad rural-urban generalizations in addressing the health status of the rural elderly without consideration of metropolitan location and suggest the utility of maximizing urban resources to augment the support networks of outlying elderly.
In-Home and Community-Based Long-Term Care Services: A Review of Recent AOA Projects Involving Self-Determination
Authors: Haber David
Published: March 2007

This review examines about 30 recent research and demonstration projects funded primarily by the Administration on Aging. The projects attempt to promote self-determination at different levels of environmental restrictiveness, through in-home and community-based long-term care services. The article provides a conceptual framework for informing policymakers, program developers, and practitioners on the scope of projects encouraging self-determination among the elderly and their family care givers, as well as the array of care-giving services and sites that are being developed.
Formal Services and Informal Helping: The Myth of Service Substitution
Authors: Stoller Eleanor Palo
Published: March 2007

I examine the relationship between formal and informal assistance among a sample of elder-caregiver dyads living in a community setting in upstate New York. The data fail to support concerns that informal helpers withdraw their support when formal substitutes are available. Rather, formal services were used most frequently by more functionally impaired elderly whose caregivers were already providing personal care. Elders whose caregivers were employed reported more reliance on formal services, but being employed did not depress the level of informal support the caregiver provides.
Long-Term Care Reconsidered: The Role of the Psychologist in the Geriatric Rehabilitation Milieu
Authors: Winnett Rochelle L.
Published: March 2007

Traditional notions of rehabilitation must be expanded to incorporate a long-term care model sensitive to the unique needs of a heterogeneous geriatric population with multiple chronic impairments. This alternate treatment model posits a reconceptualization of health management within the context of developing a specific milieu to optimize resident psychological status. This milieu is conceived of as serving a geriatric mental health mandate. The relationship between this therapeutic milieu and resident quality of life is explored. The psychologist plays a vital role in articulating mental health objectives germane to the milieu's therapeutic success. The psychologist's specific programmatic interventions at multiple levels of the milieu and their underlying rationale are discussed.
Healthy and Institutionalized: Health and Related Conditions Among Older Persons with Developmental Disabilities
Authors: Anderson Deborah J.
Published: March 2007

The fastest growing group among persons with developmental disabilities is older persons, partly because of improved health status and improvements in the quality of medical and residential care. The prevalence of chronic health conditions, associated limitations, and hospitalizations among those living infacilities licensed by developmental disabilities agencies is similar to or lower than that for older persons in general living in the community. The primary placement for this population, however, is in nursing homes or state institutions. Differences between persons in institutional settings versus community residential facilities are largely in functional limitations and/or severity of retardation, rather than in health conditions and health-related limitations, and overlap between persons in nursing homes and facilities operated/ licensed by developmental disabilities agencies is considerable. Other considerations regarding the quality of care do not generally support the high level of institutionalization of this population.
The Hospitalized Elderly and Intergenerational Conflict
Authors: Hall Barry L.
Published: March 2007

In a study investigating intergenerational conflict between adult children and their hospitalized, chronically ill elderly parents, data on present and future conflict, areas of conflict, and presence of negative feelings were collected from both generations. Adult children and their parents report the presence of both types of conflict as well as negative feelings. However, some marked differences of perception between the generations for the variables under study were found. The older generation cite much less conflict. These findings as well as implications for practice are discussed.
CCRC Statutes: The Oversight of Long-Term Care Service Delivery
Authors: Netting F. Ellen , Wilson Cindy C. , Stearns Lisa R. , Branch Laurence G.
Published: March 2007

A 1987 national survey revealed 27 states with continuing care or life care legislation. State oversight staff in 22 states responded to questions concerning characteristics of the regulated continuing care retirement community (CCRC) industry, the regulation of health and human service delivery within CCRCs, and interdepartmental working relationships between oversight agencies and other state units. Discussion focuses on the regulation of long-term care service provision in the CCRC industry.
The Impact of Creative Dance and Movement Training on the Life Satisfaction of Older Adults: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Osgood Nancy J. , Meyers Beth Smith , Orchowsky Stan
Published: March 2007

This study examined the impact of dance and movement training on the life satisfaction of older adults. Members of the experimental group participated in weekly dance and movement classes for 8 months. A matched comparison group was selected Members of both groups were pretested using a global measure of life satisfaction and the Philadelphia Geriatric Center Morale Scale. Analysis of covariance revealed significant positive changes in life satisfaction in the experimental group when compared to the matched group (p = .05). Observations and verbal comments support these findings.
Nursing Home Residents' Participation in a Creative Communication Course: The Influence of Age, Activity, and Attendance
Authors: Asmuth M. Violet , Webb Lynne
Published: March 2007

Residents from three facilities located in one county in the southeastern United States partici pated in an in-house communication course made up of six weekly sessions. Activities for each session cncluded creative dramatics, interpretive reading, and group discussion. The subjects participated most in interpretive reading and participation levels remained high across the sessions. Participation in group discussion varied from session to session. The subjects participated least in creative dramatics, but willingness to participate increased throughout the course. Age appeared unrelated to subjects' level of participation. Among subjects who attended regularly (N = 19), participation across the three activities increased over time.
Intergenerational Sharing: Teens and Elderly for the Arts (TEA)
Authors: Keller M. Jean
Published: March 2007

The number of "latchkey" teenagers and older adults has increased substantially in the past decade. An effective and efficient way to meet the needs of these two groups is through intergenerational exchange programs, such as sharing folk arts and crafts. Folk arts and crafts have been passed on from one generation to the next, but unless young people learn these skills this art will be lost forever. TEA Time—Teens and Elderly for the Arts— is an innovative program of older people sharing folk arts and crafts with latchkey teenagers. The program is highlighted in the article along with linking generations, intergenerational exchange program design and implementation, and the impact of this program on the participants and community.
Nursing Home Quality: A Framework for Analysis
Authors: Glass Anne P.
Published: March 2007

Previous efforts to evaluate nursing home quality have been hampered by the lack of a conceptual model that specifies the major components and specifically associates measurable indicators with quality. An extensive literature review reveals many fragmented pieces of information, but no framework in which to fit the pieces together. The model presented here identifies four major dimensions of nursing home quality: (a) staff intervention, (b) physical environment, (c) nutrition/food service, and (d) community relations. These dimensions go beyond traditional "quality of care" by including quality-of-life considerations as well. The dimensions are each further divided into two subdimensions. I propose that measurable indicators for each of these eight subdimensions can be combined to make an effective and comprehensive quality measure.
Principles and Cash Flow Expectations of Reverse Mortgages
Authors: Higgins David P. , Folts W. Edward
Published: March 2007

Reverse mortgages are relatively new instruments with some potential for enhancing the living standard and independence of the well elderly. Their importance as an incremental source of disposable income is likely to increase as demographic and political trends place increasing stress on public programs. Reverse mortgages are widely discussed, but the primary forms of these instruments and the amount of cash flow they will produce are not well understood. The types and financial characteristics of reverse mortgages are summarized. Examples establish general expectations for the level of cash inflows that reverse mortgages can generate for elderly people who own homes with modest market values. The article includes a discussion of these amounts in relation to the importance of incremental income to economically vulnerable home owners.
Resource Dependency and Discharge Planning in Metropolitan and Nonmetropolitan Hospitals
Authors: Clark Daniel O. , Chumbler Neale , Nadzam Wendy
Published: March 2007

This article investigates whether discharge planning procedures and discharge planners' perceptions of the availability of paid home care services vary according to the metropolitan or nonmetropolitan location of hospitals. Resource dependency theory suggests that hospital and community environments are likely to affect the discharge planning process through discharge planners'perceptions of the adequacy of resources in those environments. A stratified random sample of discharge planning coordinators in 60 metropolitan and 59 nonmetropolitan acute care hospitals in Ohio were sent questionnaires on the discharge and referral process of elderly patients. Findings indicate that discharge personnel of nonmetropolitan and large inner-city metropolitan hospitals are less likely than those of moderate-sized metropolitan hospitals to feel that an adequate amount of paid home care services is available in the community. Moreover, discharge departments of nonmetropolitan and large inner-city metropolitan hospitals are more likely to rely on patient financial information and informal care availability in discharge planning. Discharge departments in these hospitals also are more likely to train informal caregivers and maintain postdischarge contact.
Economic Adjustments of Households on Entry Into Retirement
Authors: Rubin Rose M. , Nieswiadomy Michael L.
Published: March 2007

This study focuses on economic adjustment to a major life-cycle turning point, the entry into full retirement, and its immediate impact on income and spending patterns. Cross-sectional data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Expenditure Survey interview tapes are analyzed for 1984-1987. Tobit regression analysis of socioeconomic variables on 31 expenditure categories reveals significant increased proclivities to spend on transportation, health, entertainment, and trips immediately after retirement. Older retirees spend less than do younger retirees for all expenditure categories except health insurance and gifts. Singlefemales suffer the most substantial decline in postretirement income, but this is not offset by concurrent expenditure decreases. This unsustainable dissaving rate after retirement poses a severe problem for single women.
The Effect of Depression on Functional Abilities Among Great Lakes American Indians
Authors: Lichtenberg Peter A. , Chapleski Elizabeth E. , Youngblade Lise M.
Published: March 2007

Depression is becoming recognized as a prime factor affecting older adults' functional abilities and disability. However, there is a scarcity of data on depression in older adult American Indians and none on the impact of depression on functional skills in this group. Using a sample of 314 American Indians from urban and rural areas, depression was found to be a significant predictor of Activities of Daily Living (ADL) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) abilities even after demographic variables and comorbid medical illness were accounted for. Because American Indians have higher Comorbid Medical Illnesses (CMI) than do members of the dominant culture, the results of the current study heighten the need for assessment and treatment of depression in older American Indians.
Great Lakes American Indian Elders and Service Utilization: Does Residence Matter?
Authors: Chapleski Elizabeth E. , Gelfand Donald E. , Pugh Kelli E.
Published: March 2007

Discussions about service usage by older individuals often center around the relative importance of need and knowledge variables. The impact of these variables among minority elderly remains a matter of debate. This article examines service usage among a sample of urban, rural, and reservation-based eastern Great Lakes American Indian elders. Issues of availability, awareness, acceptability, accessibility, and need are examined through both a survey of 309 respondents and a small sample of service providers. Regression results show predictors of use vary by type of service. Reservation residence and need characteristics predict in-home and preventive health service use. Being female, older, having knowledge of services, and problems with Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) predicts in-home service use. Service providers'perceptions suggest issues of trust, past experiences, and cultural acceptability need to be explored more intensely in efforts to explain service usage among American Indians and other ethnic and racial groups.
Reduced Hospitalization Rates of Two Sets of Community-Residing Older Adults After Use of a Personal Response System
Authors: Roush Robert E. , Teasdale Thomas A.
Published: March 2007

This study replicated, in a United States setting, an earlier study conducted in Canada to determine whether use of a 24-hour personal response system (PRS) affected selected hospital utilization rates among community-residing users. Utilization rates of 106 Canadian patients were reviewed for 1 year before and 1 year after enrollment in the PRS: These were compared with a similar set of 101 U.S. patients using the same PRS program. Self-paired analyses were conducted on number of emergency department (ED) visits and number of inpatient days. During the 1-year follow-up periods, both sets of subscribers using the Lifeline system experienced a statistically significant decrease (p < 0.05) in per person inpatient days (mean reduction = 6.5 days). No significant differences occurred in ED visits. When indicated, a PRS may be an appropriate environmental prescription.
Parole and Probation Caseload Size Variation: The Florida Intensive Supervision Project
Authors: Nath Sunil B. , Clement David E. , Sistrunk Frank
Published: March 2007

The widespread emphasis upon early release of convicted felons and misdemeanants led to investigation of the effects of variation in level of supervision of offenders subsequent to release. The authors describe a project in the State of Florida which included varying intensity of supervision for selected groups of probationers and parolees. The results indicated success in implementing the variations in supervision intensity; that is, the process measures were favorable. However, the product measures involving offender behavioral adjustment did not show clear advantages for either level of supervision intensity. Interpretations of the results depend heavily upon an understanding of the complexity of the justice system as well as the complex interaction of the behavioral causes.
Police Professionalization: Elusive or Illusory?
Authors: Potts Lee W.
Published: March 2007

Police professionalization has been an earnest but elusive pursuit of leading police administrators. In large part, the elusiveness is a consequence of ambiguity in the concept itself First, there is a lack of clarity, even in general usage, of the designation "professional. " Second, the initially imprecise definitions have been further clouded when modified for application to the police. Furthermore, the specific environments of given police departments limit the potential for development of generalized concepts of police professionalization. Finally, there has been afailure to distinguish between professionalization as achieving professionalism and as obtaining professionalperquisites. In view of these factors, police professionalism must be seen more as an illusory goal than as a flawed programmatic objective.
Propriety of Judicial Behavior in Court of Common Pleas
Authors: Lichtenstein Michael J.
Published: March 2007

Evaluations of judicical competence and propriety of behavior have generally been negative in the literature on the courts. The present analysis provides further illustration of misbehavior on the part of judges. The data include observations of criminal trials, responses to a questionnaire by attorneys, and interviews with judges. Desirable qualities for judges are discussed together with a look at the distribution of power in a courtroom.
Development of a Punishment Severity Scale: The Item Displacement Phenomenon
Authors: Allen Roy B. , Anson Richard H.
Published: March 2007

A number of studies suggest that crimes and punishments can be scaled. Some evidence indicates, however, that development of such scales may be hampered by the number of items which appropriately can be evaluated by respondents. In the present study two survey instruments were administered to 90 respondents. The results suggest that although the rankings of identical items derived from two survey instruments (one containing a large number of items and the other containing a subset of the larger set) were highly correlated, the instrument containing the larger number of items resulted in several instances of scale item displacement.
Communications
Authors: Ben-Yehuda Nachman
Published: March 2007

A communication may take one of two forms. The first relates to correspondence about an article that has appeared in the Review. In this instance the editor will determine whether the initial correspondence from a reader is worthy of publication. In the event that it is, the author of the article in question will have an opportunity to respond to the reader's comment. Both communications will appear unedited. The second type of communication relates to book reviews. It is assumed that this type of communication will be initiated by authors of books who believe their work has been criticized unfairly. In this instance the editor will not determine whether the communication should be published. Instead, it is our intention to allow the reviewer if the book in question to respond to the author's communication and then to permit the author of the book a final rejoinder to the reviewer's communication. All of this correspondence will be published unedited. This policy is designed to assure the essential integrity and purpose of the Review.
The Impact of Rape Law Reform: An Aggregate Analysis of Police Reports and Arrests
Authors: Berger Ronald J. , Neuman W. Lawrence , Searles Patricia
Published: March 2007

This aggregate analysis of rape law reform in 48 states complements existing individual-level studies by providing a picture of the nationwide impact of the reforms. A theoretical model of rape law impact is developed, and the effects of several reform measures on official rape rates are examined through multiple regression analyses that control for contextual and etiological factors. The results indicate that rape law reform is for the most part unrelated to rape rates, although there are departures from this pattern. In particular, there are significant effects of an index of definitional reforms and a variable that measures the criminalization of nonconsensual sexual contacts not involving clearly demonstrable force or other extreme circumstances. There are also interactive effects between law reform and contextual variables, as well as direct effects of contextual and etiological variables.
Police Training and Citizens with Mental Retardation
Authors: McAfee James K. , Musso Stephanie L.
Published: March 2007

State police academies in every state were asked to provide information about initial training for new recruits on the subject of disabilities. It was found that 36 academies provided some training about disabilities in general, but only 16 addressed mental retardation specifically. Of the state academies that provided training about mental retardation, most included only an overview of mental retardation and an assessment of how it differs from other disabilities. Few provided new police officers with specific information about the legal rights of persons with mental retardation or with instruction on appropriate interaction. The article provides recommendations for improved training and for future research.
Parasitological Contamination of Urban Sludge Used for Agricultural Purposes
Authors: Gaspard Philippe , Wiart Jacques , Schwartzbrod Janine
Published: March 2007

Sludge re-use in agriculture has increased in many countries, but this practice must be associated with a knowledge of the pathogens present in these sludges. The aim of this study was to determine the parasitic contamination of helminths found in urban sludges. Parasitological analysis was then performed on 99 samples collected by the waste recycling mission for agricultural purposes: urban sludges (89), lagoon sediments (3) and composts (7). The results of 89 urban sludge analyses expressed per 100 g of dry matter showed a high proportion (47%) of samples presenting concentrations lower than 60 eggs. Thirty-eight per cent of the samples were with higher concentrations ranging from 60 to 240 eggs; only 15% of the analysis results indicated concentrations higher than 240 eggs with a maximum of 898 eggs. In lagooning sediments, the concentration observed ranged from 56 to 569 eggs and the analysis of compost samples yielded average concentration of 40.8 eggs. When the whole study is taken into account, Nematode eggs (Toxocara, Ascaris, Capillaria, Trichuris, Ascaridia, Enterobius) are mostly represented with 93.2%, whereas Cestode eggs (Tenia, Hymenelopis) are only detected in a proportion of 6.8%. The study of the lime treatment impact on 10 treatment plants showed a decrease in helminth eggs concentration in seven samples and no difference for the three others. For the egg viability, sludges from all types of treatment (mesophilic anaerobic and aerobic digestion, composting, liming) contained viable eggs in concentration higher than or equal to 10 eggs per 100 g of dry matter. © 1997 ISWA
Stabilization/solidification of hazardous metallic wastes: prediction of leach test performance to optimize S/S mixtures
Authors: Parapar J. F. Vale , de Elvira Francoy C. Ruiz , Rodríguez-Piñero M. , Salvador Martínez L. , Fernández Pereira C.
Published: March 2007

The main tool available for ascertaining the effectiveness attained by a hazardous waste stabilization/solidification (S/S) process is the chemical analysis of the leachate of the solid product obtained. Moreover, it is a well-known fact that the pH of the leachate is the most significant factor in con trolling the leachability of solidified metal bearing wastes, so the lowest concentrations in the leachate of many important metals appear within an optimum range of this pH. In this paper, a methodology is proposed for predicting the final pH of the leachate of different formulations used in the treatment of metallic industrial wastes. This methodology allows us to adjust the proportion of agents used in the S/S processes. In this method, the neutralization curves must first be obtained by acetic acid titration (GANC) of the mixture components. Based on the GANC curves of the components, the alkaline buffer capacity of the S/S solid can be defined and the final pH of the leachate can be predicted. Excellent concordance has been seen between predicted values and test results. How ever, we have also noticed discrepancies for some wastes and S/S agents. These discrepancies can be attributed to internal alkali-consuming reactions that produce lower final leachate pHs than predicted. The methodology proposed helps iden tify the reactions responsible for this process and helps study the evolution over time of the solids obtained.
Report: the decomposition of putatively degradable nappy pads in three systems
Authors: Line M.A.
Published: March 2007

The degradation of putatively degradable Weenee® nappy pads was monitored relative to commercially-available plastic nappies in soil, earthworm compost and in a septic tank used by a villa complex. Extrapolated data gave times for elimina tion of the degradable pads (under temperate summer condi tions) of 134 days in soil, 71 to 80 days in earthworm compost and 110 days in the septic tank. The polyacrylate absorbant material in the degradable pads was not toxic to earthworms or to soil microbiota.
Composting of oily sludges - degradation, stabilized residues, volatiles and microbial activity
Authors: Bengtsson Å. , Quednau Mikael , Haskå G. , Nilzén P. , Persson A.
Published: March 2007

Process residuals, sludge with high oil content, were treated by composting. In lab-scale (100 litre) trials initial oil con centrations (30 to 50 g kg-1 dry matter) were, depending on composting conditions, reduced 55 to 90% during a period of 60 to 120 days.
Quantitative analysis of ammonia and odorous sulfur compounds evolved during thermophilic composting
Authors: Nakasaki Kiyohiko , Kuratomi Hidekazu , Wakizaka Hiroaki , Hiyama Reiko , Akakura Naoki
Published: March 2007

Odorous compounds were generated by thermophilic com posting processes maintained at an isothermal condition of 60°C. From these compounds, ammonia and odorous sulfur compounds were measured. Composts were produced under identical operational conditions from identical raw materials comprised of commercial dog food. It was observed that organic matter decomposition was reproducible, as were the evolution patterns and the quantities of NH 3 and odorous sul fur compounds evolved. Particularly in the cases of dimeth yldisulfide (DMDS) and ammonia (NH3), the evolved quan tities were measured with high accuracy. Under the compost ing conditions used in this study, neither hydrogen sulfide (H 2S) nor dimethylsulfide(DMS) were detected. In contrast, high concentrations of methylmercaptane (MMC), DMDS and NH3 were detected.
The Liability of Public Executives: Implications for Practice in Personnel Administration
Authors: Hildreth W. Bartley , Miller Gerald J. , Rabin Jack
Published: March 2007

This article provides an overview of the law of tort liability as it applies to personnel administrators. Starting with the premise that personnel practitioners can avoid liability pitfalls by familiarizing themselves with current statutory and case law, the authors analyze trends in the development of personal and official liability. The impact of tort liability upon the personnel profession is exemplified through reference to four personnel topics: employee non-discrimination; union activity; disciplinary policy; and supervisory practices. The authors conclude with several recommendations intended to assist practitioners in avoiding liability problems, including the careful design of bias-free rules and regulations, and the establishment of training programs and monitoring systems to avoid and/or remedy potential liability risks.
Reform of the Georgia State Merit System
Authors: Ealy Steven D.
Published: March 2007

Using the reform of the state of Georgia's classification and salary system as a case study, this article examines the failure by personnel agencies to consider their impact on other agencies and the political context of their activities. The study demonstrates that in some ways not much has changed since Wallace Sayre described personnel administration as the "triumph of technique over purpose."
The State of the Merit System: Perceptions of Abuse in the Federal Civil Service
Authors: Ban Carolyn , Redd Harry C.
Published: March 2007

To what extent are personnel decisions in the federal government really based on merit? This article examines the perceptions of two knowledgeable groups, personnel specialists and federal employees, about abuses of the merit system. While the occurrence of most forms of abuse are relatively infrequent, perceptions of their occurrence differ sharply by agency. Survey findings suggest that perceptions of discrimination increased markedly in the eight years of the Reagan administration.
Difficulties, Assumptions, and Choices in Evaluating Employee Assistance Programs
Authors: Mani Bonnie
Published: March 2007

Existing evaluations of employee assistance programs have been criticized on a number ofgrounds. In addition to facing the difficulties thatare inherent in many program evaluations, evaluators of EAPs also encounter problems. Their reluctance to cooperate is often based on concerns about maintaining confidentiality, especially when dealing with clients who are emotionally disturbed. This article presents a description of common prob lems encountered in EAP evaluations, some suggested solutions to these problems, some preliminary steps to prepare fora more successful evaluation, anda step-by-step process for developing an evaluation research design for an employee assistance program.
African-Americans in Executive Branch Agencies
Authors: Page Paul
Published: March 2007

Using data obtained from OPM's Office of Workforce Information and Census Bureau statistics, the research reported here has three main objectives. The first is to provide a statis tical look at America's African- American population. The second is an examination of the integration of minority employ ees in the federal public sector. The third is to discuss the obsta cles to integration of African- Americans in the public sector and explore what the future may hold. Although African-Ameri cans have made some progress in reaching middle- and upper-level management positions, their employment pattern suggests continued segregation into the lower grade levels.
Equal Opportunities and Flexibilities in the United Kingdom's Public Services
Authors: Corby Susan
Published: March 2007

The United Kingdom's public services, which employ more women than men, led the way in equality initiatives from the late 1970s, at a time when personnel management was centralized and terms and conditions were determined prescriptively and in detail Accordingly, equality policies and practices were introduced into a centralized system From the late 1980s, changes have been aimed at giving local managers more discretion on personnel and pay issues and providing working patterns which depart from the full-time, life-time norm when budgetary constraints have tightened. This article looks at the impact of these changes, or so-called flexibilities, on equality and finds that pay flexibility and contractual flexibility have had a detrimental impact. The evidence with respect to structural flexibility and temporal flexibility, however, is less clear-cut. The article concludes that equal opportunities and flexibilities in many, but not necessarily all, respects are not compatible in the United Kingdom's public services.
Insights from the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service
Authors: Mareschal Patrice M.
Published: March 2007

In recent years, mediation has become increasingly popular as a means to resolve conflict. One important issue that arises out of the recent explosive growth in the practice of mediation is. what do mediators need to know in order to assist the parties in resolving their conflicts? This research attemtps to identify the determinants of mediator competence by examining the knowledge, skills and abilities of mediators in public sector labor relations. The research focuses on the core competencies requirements for mediators with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service and suggests which of the competencies may be applicable to mediation in other contexts.