bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Injection Wells with Integrity Challenges on the NCS
Authors: Vignes Birgit , Tonning Stein A. , Aadnoy Bernt S.
Published: November 2008

The indications of several well integrity failures on the Norwegian Continental Shelf (NCS) was the motivation for a study to investigate the possible involved mechanism of well integrity issues on the NCS. The study will include water injectors, gas injectors and CO2 injectors.

This paper describes a number of technical well integrity issues, identifying critical elements such as design failures, corrosion problems, tubing leakage, operational factors and degradation of barrier elements like cement problems, casing issues and elastomeres failures in injection wells.

The study includes a selection of new and old injection wells from different facilities and operating companies at the NCS. The paper will also present some production or injection wells in depleted oil and gas fields that are reused as injection wells.

Well integrity and control of the barrier status is considered as an important HSE factor that limits integrity incidents, leaks and well control situations. Knowledge of the well status enables the companies to take the right actions in a proactive manner and thereby prevent potential losses and expenses and to ensure "healthy" & safe wells.
Standardizing the Approach for Offshore Pipeline Lifetime Extension
Authors: Franklin J. G. , Stowell B. E. , Jee T. P. , Hawkins M.
Published: November 2008

With increasing maturity of the offshore oil and gas industry, the requirement to operate a pipeline beyond its original design life is becoming commonplace. This requirement has been driven by enhanced recovery techniques and the widespread tie-in of new developments into existing infrastructure. Yet the approaches taken by operators to prove a pipeline fit for operation beyond its original lifetime have differed in the general methodology and in the level of detail. This has generated concerns for both pipeline operators and the regulatory authorities over what is appropriate and sufficient. In response to this, ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) has established a working group, convened by Jee Limited, to investigate and develop a best practice specification for pipeline lifetime extension.

This paper presents a recommended approach to pipeline lifetime extension, identifying the key data and information that has to be gathered and the elements of assessment necessary to give the technical credibility required to ensure a continued high level of safety. Two case studies are included which demonstrate historical approaches to pipeline lifetime extension.
3D Multiple Attenuation in the F-XY Domain: A Case History from Abu Dhabi
Authors: Maroof M. S. Ben , Nahhas M. S. Al , Soroka W. L. , Leveque A. , Spitz S.
Published: November 2008

Multiples are successfully removed from seismic data to increase the signal-to-noise ratio in a 3D land dataset acquired in Abu Dhabi. The process aims at removing in user specified spatial-temporal windows only that multiple energy (surface or inter-bed), interfering with particular primary seismic events. The anti-multiple is designed in the f-xy domain and applied prestack, on constant offset time migrated data volumes. Subtraction of the multiple events from the original seismic data is shown to produce an improved subsurface seismic image that is more suitable for interpretation and attribute analysis.

The ability to remove multiple events without affecting the primary signal is a crucial issue in seismic processing, as spurious energy at a target level leads to suboptimal images and adds uncertainty to reservoir characterization. The state of the art in attenuating multiple arrivals involves a two steps process. First the multiples are predicted via a data driven technique. Then the predicted events are matched to the multiples actually present in the data and removed with some matching filter. The removal assumes that the kinematics of the multiple events are correctly derived and that the prediction locates them correctly in time and space.

The technique applied on the Abu Dhabi dataset focuses on a particular family of reverberating events that invade the target area. This is a marked difference with respect to general techniques that try to predict the whole multiple wavefield. The technique requires the strong impedance contrast that generates the multiple (surface related or internal) to be reasonably flat. When this requirement is met the prediction of the multiple is simple and avoids all shortcomings of general techniques such as SRME with irregular acquisition geometries, poor signal to noise ratio or variable near surface effects. Moreover we believe that this requirement is often met in the Arabic Peninsula.
Extending the Range of Multiphase Metering to Challenging High Water Cut Gas-Lifted Wells: TOTAL ABK Field Application
Authors: Costa David , Couput Jean-Paul , Hollaender Florian , Pinguet Bruno , Koshy Thomas
Published: November 2008

Flow metering using conventional separation-based technologies in low-pressure high gas rate environments typical of gas-lifted wells is a very difficult operation. Owing to low retention times of the gas, the quality of separation and existing instrumentation is often doubtful leading to an under-estimate of liquid rates. An aggravating factor is that such wells are often producing at high water-cuts, thus leading to significant uncertainty on oil rates.

To solve such metering challenges with a large majority of their wells operating above 95% gas fraction under metering conditions and water cuts often higher than 90 %, TOTAL ABK has evaluated different well testing & monitoring strategies based on multiphase metering use.

A compact dual-energy gamma-ray Venturi multiphase flow meter (MPFM) was selected and placed under field trial to assess whether this technology could reduce the uncertainty on oil production by removing any impact of imperfect separation. 20 tests were performed considering 15 wells over a period of 10 days to assess MPFM performance and repeatability in a wide range of conditions.

In most cases, it was found that the meter's performance compares favorably with that of the test separator located in line. Furthermore, the high-frequency high-resolution output of the meter allowed the operator to assess well efficiency and stability and to understand the behavior of the gas lift system. It was shown that such wells have a tendency to behave erratically at very high frequency, leading to fast and significant variations of the well productivity that could not be captured by conventional means and could potentially lead to erroneous results as well as sub-optimal well performance.

The field test proves that the multiphase metering solution used in this trial can be used successfully and is presenting a reliable alternative or complement to conventional test separators for flow metering in low-pressure high water cut wells under gas lift, providing operational flexibility and additional information of interest to optimize well productivity.
Correlations for Optimum Separation Pressures for Sequential Field Separation System
Authors: AL-Jawad Mohammed S. , Hassan Omar F.
Published: November 2008

ABSRACT

A study has been done to find the optimum separators pressures of separation stations. Stage separation of oil and gas is accomplished with a series of separators operating at sequentially reduced pressures. Liquid discharged from a higher pressure separator into the lower pressure separator. The set of working separators pressures which yield maximum recovery of liquid hydrocarbon from the well fluid is the optimum set of pressures which is the target of this work.

Computer model is used to find the optimum separators pressures. The model employs the Peng-Robinson equation of state for volatile oil. Application of this model shows good improvement of all objective functions for many oils(1).

Mathematical correlations for estimating optimum set of pressures have been deduced from the model to provide simple and quick tool to find the optimum stages pressures. Many tests have been achieved with many volatile samples at different conditions to prove the validity of these correlations.
How to Ensure That Required Metering Uncertainty are Kept to a Minimum During Operation
Authors: Smørgrav Alf E.
Published: November 2008

With the very high price per barrel/m3 of oil of today it is of almost importance that the measurement uncertainty is kept at its absolute minimum, and the illustration below talk for itself. Even at a dollar price of $ 120.00 per barrel an increase in uncertainty will cost the oil Companies a fortune annually.

This paper will give an insight in how the uncertainty of a metering system could / should be evaluated and examined at regular intervals in order to maintain the confident in the reported volume / mass flow figures that has been produced or sold.

The following issues will be discussed in this paper ➢System Installation Supervision and Commissioning Services.➢Maintenance and Operations Contracts➢Maintenance and Operational Excellence through Customized On-Site Services.➢Training Schools.➢Spares and Parts Management Solutions.➢Consulting Services➢System Modification and Upgrades
Advances in Tight Gas Completions - Noel Tight Gas Project
Authors: Kovalsky Keith , Kelly Patrick
Published: November 2008

The Noel project has successfully employed unconventional fracing approaches and open hole horizontal wells to begin development of the Cadomin Formation in the Noel field in Canada. The Cadomin is a very difficult reservoir to exploit given that the reservoir is under pressured, has very low permeability and porosity. The formation is also deep and the drilling is made expensive by the abrasive nature and hardness of the rocks. The project appraisal team made extensive use of reservoir simulation, Microseismic frac mapping and production logging to understand the reservoir and the well performance in order to optimize the well design. A "do learn do" approach has allow the Noel team to make several step changes in well performance during the project appraisal phase.
Application of Well Testing for Well Deliverability Forecasting in Volatile Oil Reservoirs
Authors: Sanni M. O. , Gringarten A. C.
Published: November 2008

This paper presents the results of a study on the factors affecting well deliverability in volatile oil reservoirs producing at flowing bottomhole pressure below bubble point pressure and methods of mitigating well productivity decline due to "gas blockage" when volatile oil reservoirs are producing at flowing bottomhole pressure below bubble point pressure.

For this purpose, actual well producing at flowing bottomhole pressure below bubble point pressure was modelled using a one-dimensional single well compositional reservoir simulation, with velocity-dependent relative permeabilities functions of Capillary Number (Nc) and Forchheimer parameter (β). The model was then used to investigate oil productivity impairment due to "gas blockage" near the wellbore and the use of vertical hydraulic fractures and horizontal wells to mitigate the impairment to flow of the oil phase due to "gas blockage".

The result shows that end point relative permeability of oil phase and oil fluid composition are the most important factors affecting productivity of volatile oil reservoirs producing below bubble point pressure.

This study suggests in volatile oil reservoirs, both vertical hydraulic fractures and horizontal wells are best implemented early in the wells life to delay the time when the flowing bottomhole pressure drops below the bubble point pressure, hence improving ultimate recovery.
Using Anion Chromatography–Pulsed Amperometry to Measure Amino Compounds in Dairy Manure‐Amended Soils
Authors: Olk D.C. , Fortuna A. , Honeycutt C. W.
Published: November 2008

Amino acids and amino sugars comprise the bulk of soil N, so information on their chemical forms and cycling patterns should enable better understanding of soil N cycling. In this study of soil samples that had received animal manure, we evaluated the capabilities of a recently developed analysis for soil amino compounds (19 amino acids, two amino sugars) that consists of methanesulfonic acid extraction, anion chromatography, and pulsed amperometry detection. Soil samples were taken from a 28‐d laboratory incubation of nine soils from six soil orders in six U.S. states that were amended with dairy manure slurry at a rate to simulate 300 kg N ha−1 Manuring resulted in enrichment of the soils by nearly all measured amino compounds but to varying degrees. These enriched levels were relatively stable against mineralization during the short‐term incubation, with most compounds having decreased modestly in concentration (mean 11%) by the end of the incubation, in contrast to slight increases (mean 3%) for three compounds that are associated with microbial activity and were not overly abundant in the manure: ornithine, glucosamine, and galactosamine. Several measurements of the extracted amino compounds varied significantly among the nine soils. Our results illustrated some shortcomings of this analytical approach, including instability of small peaks and the need for a second extraction mode to maximize extraction of certain amino compounds. We identified 41 to 43% of the total soil N as amino compounds for all soils and treatments, which is comparable to results reported previously for the conventional analysis involving HCl extraction and cation chromatography. Compared with conventional analysis, this approach might more efficiently extract basic amino acids and less efficiently extract acidic amino acids. Overall we found this approach to be a useful analysis.
Change in Surface Soil Carbon under Rotated Corn in Eastern South Dakota
Authors: Pikul Joseph L. , Johnson Jane M. F. , Schumacher Thomas E. , Vigil Merle , Riedell Walter E.
Published: November 2008

A diversified crop rotation may reduce fertilizer N inputs for corn (Zea mays L.) and increase soil organic C (SOC). Our objectives were to determine the effects of crop rotation and fertilizer N on soil C within the surface soil (0–15‐cm depth). Rotations were started in 1990 on a Barnes sandy clay loam near Brookings, SD. Measurements of SOC began in 1996. Primary tillage since 1996 was chisel plow. All crop residues were returned to the soil. Rotations were continuous corn (CC), corn–soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.], and corn–soybean–wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) companion seeded with alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.)–alfalfa hay (CSWA). Uncropped treatments included perennial grasses. Corn N treatments were based on the soil NO3 test and yield goal. Corn was fertilized for a grain yield of 8.5 Mg ha−1 (high N), 5.3 Mg ha−1 (mid N), and no N. Under grass, SOC increased 3.8 Mg C ha−1 from 1996 to 2006. Continuous corn under high N returned 34% more aboveground plant C (PC) to the soil compared with the CSWA rotation, but this did not offset the SOC loss. Under high N, there was a loss of 2.3 Mg C ha−1 in the surface soil from CC and a gain of 0.3 Mg C ha−1 from CSWA (1996–2006). There was a significant effect of fertilizer N addition and rotation on SOC. A combination of greater crop diversity and fewer tillage operations on CSWA, compared with CC, probably contributed to a balance of SOC (return of PC ≈ loss of SOC).
Online Computer Games as Collaborative Learning Environments: Prospects and Challenges for Tertiary Education
Authors: Papastergiou Marina
Published: November 2008

This study is aimed at presenting a critical overview of recent research studies on the use of educational online games as collaborative learning environments in Tertiary Education (TE), namely higher education and vocational training, with a view to identifying: a) the elements that online games should include in order to support fruitful and sustainable constructivist and collaborative learning experiences within TE institutions; b) the impact of online games on students' motivation, academic performance and collaborative practices; c) the impact of the use of online games for educational purposes on faculty workload, teaching and assessment practices, and management of classroom dynamics; and d) the challenges that TE institutions face when new, very learner-centered, but also potentially addictive and distractive, learning modes, such as learning through online games, are introduced into the various curricula. The study also examines certain practical and technical issues related to the use of online games in TE, such as the costs of the software needed and the adequacy of the computer and networking infrastructures.
Inside the Web: A Look at Digital Libraries and the Invisible/Deep Web
Authors: Su Mila C.
Published: November 2008

The evolution of the Internet and the World Wide Web continually exceeds expectations with the swift pace of technological innovations. Information is added, and just as quickly becomes outdated at a rapid pace. Researchers have found that Digital materials can provide access to primary source materials and connect the researcher to institutions virtually. This article provides some basic definitions and presents an overview of digital library projects, archival resources, and access challenges to the Deep Web. A variety of strategies are included that can be used in searching the Deep Web for information. A Webography of resources is included for further exploration.
A Systematic Review on the Effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Mendes Deise D. , Mello Marcelo Feijó , Ventura Paula , De Medeiros Passarela Cristiane , De Jesus Mari Jair
Published: November 2008

Objective:

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most common psychotherapy approach for the treatment of PTSD. Nevertheless, previous reviews on the efficacy of several types of psychotherapy were unable to detect differences between CBT and other psychotherapies. The purpose of this study was to conduct systematic review on the efficacy of CBT in comparison with studies that used other psychotherapy techniques.

Method:

Databases were searched using the following terms: posttraumatic stress disorder/stress disorder, treatment/psychotherapy/behavior cognitive therapy, randomized trials, and adults. Randomized clinical trials published between 1980 and 2005 and that compared CBT with other treatments for PTSD was included. The main outcomes were remission, clinical improvement, dropout rates and changes in symptoms.

Results:

The 23 clinical trials included in the review comprised 1,923 patients: 898 in the treatment group and 1,025 in the control group. CBT had better remission rates than EMDR (RR = 0.35; 95%CI: 0.16; 0.79; p = 0.01) or supportive therapies (RR = 0.43; 95%CI: 0.25; 0.74; p = 0.002, completer analysis). CBT was comparable to Exposure Therapy (ET) (RR = 0.90; 95%CI: 0.58; 1.40; p = 0.64), and cognitive therapy (CT) (RR = 1.01; 95%CI: 0.67; 1.51; p = 0.98) in terms of efficacy and compliance.

Conclusions:

These findings suggest that specific therapies, such as CBT, exposure therapy and cognitive therapy are equally effective, and more effective than supportive techniques in the treatment of PTSD.
Mass Murders: Implications for Mental Health Professionals
Authors: Aitken Lisa , Oosthuizen Piet , Emsley Robin , Seedat Soraya
Published: November 2008

In this article, we attempt to uncover whether mass murders (the killing of multiple victims in single events) are preventable acts, the extent to which they are contributed to by biological and psychological factors, the notion that they are inextricably linked to mental illness, the role of the media, and what lessons can be learned by mental health professionals.
Higher Rate of Major Depression among Blood Donor Candidates Infected with Human T-Cell Lymphotropic Virus Type 1
Authors: Stumpf Bárbara P. , Carneiro-Proietti Anna Bárbara , Proietti Fernando A. , Rocha Fábio L. ,   INTERDISCIPLINARY HTLV RESEARCH GROUP (GIPH)
Published: November 2008

Objective:

Viral infections have been previously associated with psychiatric disorders. This work aimed to study the relationship between the human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) and depression.

Method:

A case-control study with prevalent cases was conducted from April 2004 to June 2005. Participants were from a public transfusion center in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. The base population was composed of blood donor candidates infected with HTLV-1 (asymptomatic carriers), followed-up in a cohort study. As a control group, HTLV-1 seronegative blood donors were selected in a random fashion. Study participants underwent psychiatric evaluation using a structured diagnostic instrument, the Mini International Neuropsychiatry Interview (MINI), to estimate the rate of depression. The interviewer was unaware of participants' HTLV-1 serostatus. The co-variables studied were gender, age, formal education, personal income, and the presence of other psychiatric diagnoses. Logistic regression was used to examine the relation between HTLV-1 infection and depression.

Results:

The final sample was composed of 74 individuals infected with HTLV-1 and 24 uninfected controls. The rate of depression was significantly higher in HTLV-1 carriers when compared with controls (39% vs. 8%; p-value = 0.005). HTLV-1 infection was independently associated with depression (OR = 6.17; CI 95% = 1.32–28.82).

Conclusions:

The results showed a higher rate of depression in HTLV-1 infected individuals. It was not possible to determine whether depression was related to knowledge of chronic retroviral infection or related to a biological effect of the retroviral infection.
Stocks for the Long Run
Authors: Delong J. Bradford
Published: November 2008

Stocks have had a very bad decade, but for Brad Delong that is all the more reason to buy and hold.
Hearts of Compassion: A Concern for Violence against Children
Authors: Soto Lourdes Diaz
Published: November 2008

This article documents the global concern of violence toward children in the post-modern society. The possibility of pursuing altruistic possibilities is explored in light of recent research conducted with children who experienced the events of 9/11 in New York City and immigrant border crossing children. The conclusion explores how early childhood and progressive educators can work toward alleviating violence against children.
Discourses on Quality Care: The Investigating ‘Quality’ Project and the Canadian Experience
Authors: Pence Alan , Pacini-Ketchabaw Veronica
Published: November 2008

This article describes the contexts within which reconceptualist approaches to research and practice in early childhood education are taking place in British Columbia, Canada. The authors situate their work on a project entitled Investigating ‘Quality’ in Early Childhood Education within national and international early childhood discourses.
Coronary artery atherosclerosis in patients with the initial and the early stage of chronic renal failure
Authors: Bartnicki Piotr , Stolarek Robert , Rysz Jacek
Published: November 2008

The recent clinical data indicate that the initial and the early stages of chronic renal failure (CRF) may lead to increased incidence of cardiovascular complications and increased extent of coronary artery disease (CAD). This retrospective study was aimed to determine the effects of coexisting diabetes mellitus type 2 (DM-2) and the extent of atherosclerosis in coronary vessels in patients with mildly reduced kidney function (glomerular filtration rate GFR = 89–60 ml/min) and moderately reduced kidney function (GFR = 59–30 ml/min). The study patients included 53 subjects with creatinine concentration above 120 μmol/l as a cut-off level for the initial stage and compensated CRF. The distributions of coronary artery stenosis were also analysed with respect to DM-2 coexistence and levels of haemoglobin glikolised (HbA1c). The odds ratio of pathological changes in coronary arteries in patients with GFR = 44–30 ml/min, with respect to the number of affected vessels — only one, more than one or more than two — were 7.22, 4.90 and 3.55, respectively. In CRF patients with GFR = 60–89 ml/min the odds ratio of one, more than one and more than two vessels with stenosis and CAD was 1.93, 1.70 and 1.53, respectively. DM-2 was not related to the risk of significant coronary artery stenosis and did not enhance the pre-existing changes in the study setting. Our results demonstrate that the initial and the early stages of CRF were significant risk factors for coronary stenoses and for enhancing the pre-existing changes.
A new approach to nickel electrolytic colouring of anodised aluminium
Authors: Zemanová Matilda , Chovancová Marta , Krivošík Pavol
Published: November 2008

Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy were used to analyse nickel on anodic aluminium surfaces after stripping the anodic aluminium oxide. The metal was electroplated at the bottom of the pores of anodised aluminium during electrolytic colouring in solutions without (Watts) and with (citrate) complexing agents, respectively. A relation between the anodic-cathodic processes, changes of the structure and composition of the coating in dependence on the used solution were studied. A morphology study performed after stripping the anodic aluminium oxide revealed the crucial influence of the anodic process/cycle and the complexing agent on the nickel structure on the aluminium surface. Off-time of half-way rectified current influenced the nickel deposition in the pores of anodic alumina negatively.
Expertise, Health, and Popular Opinion: Debating Water Fluoridation, 1945–80
Authors: Carstairs Catherine , Elder Rachel
Published: November 2008

Historians have often painted the 1950s and early 1960s as a time of technological optimism, faith in science and medicine, and belief in experts. In fact, there was more anxiety about medical and scientific progress than has often been acknowledged. This anxiety was perhaps most strongly expressed in one of the most hotly debated issues of the day – water fluoridation. Fluoridation referendums can tell us much about how voters responded to the voices of organized medicine and its critics. Doctors and dentists claimed that water fluoridation was perfectly safe and that it would dramatically reduce the incidence of tooth decay, and yet Canadians repeatedly voted against fluoridation in municipal referendums. There is little question that the 1950s and 1960s marked a high point in scientific optimism and faith in experts, but even then there were cracks in the facade. As with the concern over nuclear fallout and ddt, there was fear about where technology might lead us, concern that doctors and dentists might be influenced by large corporations, and worries that further research would show that there were dangers not yet known. In examining these issues, this article adds to a growing body of literature that no longer sees a significant break between the “conservative” 1950s and the “radical” 1960s, and instead suggests that there is more continuity between these periods than has often been acknowledged.
Représentations des littératies plurilingues, de l’immersion en français et des dynamiques identitaires chez des parents chinois
Authors: Dagenais Diane , Moore Danièle
Published: November 2008

Abstract:

Focusing on the study of representations constructed by Chinese families in a large city in Western Canada, this article examines parents’ perceptions of the literacy practices of their multilingual children enrolled in French immersion programs. The authors consider how discursive identity construction has multiple prisms that enable families to surpass minority group designations and participate as citizens in Canadian democracy without renouncing their inherited affiliations. An analysis of their discourse provides a tool for understanding how representations are constructed and transform social thinking, revealing the close relationship between the dynamics of representation and identity.
Minority Language Development and Literacy among Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), Refugees, and Wartime Communities
Authors: Yoder Joan Bomberger
Published: November 2008

Abstract:

This article describes how minority language development and literacy activities were facilitated in a wartime context for Southern Sudanese language groups, particularly through the use of workshops. It also presents the voices of the language speakers themselves as they reflect on this process. A background discussion considers the importance of minority languages, education in times of war, and resources for minority language development and literacy. The activities of assessment, orthography formation, and writers’ training are then described as they were implemented in a workshop context. The concluding section of the article provides an update on multilingual education developments in Southern Sudan and notes some strengths and weaknesses of a workshop approach in stressed contexts.
AN OBJECT LESSON IN SPECULATION: MULTIPLE VIEWS OF THE CATHEDRAL IN LEAF V. INTERNATIONAL GALLERIES
Authors: Fernandez Angela
Published: November 2008

Leaf v. International Galleries is an English case dealing with the doctrine of innocent misrepresentation in contract law. Mr Leaf bought an oil painting of Salisbury Cathedral from International Galleries in 1944 for £85 on the representation that it was an authentic picture by the famous English painter John Constable. When he tried to sell it five years later to Christie's auction house, he was told that it was not in fact a Constable. International Galleries stood by its claim of authenticity. The trial judge found as fact that the painting was not authentic. Lord Denning held at the Court of Appeal that Mr Leaf might well have asked for damages for breach of a warranty that the painting was a real Constable; however, he did not do so, and his request to amend the pleadings to that effect was denied. What Leaf did ask for was equitable relief under the doctrine of innocent misrepresentation by way of rescission (i.e., that he be allowed to return the painting and recover his £85). Leaf's claim was denied on the grounds that five years was too long after the transaction to rescind it.

Scholars who discuss the case wrestle with the odd fact that £85 seems an extremely low price to pay for an authentic painting by John Constable, and various ways of responding to this have worked their way into the treatment of the case. However, it turns out that £85 might have been a perfectly reasonable price to pay for particular Constables in 1944. This article explores how assumptions like this perfectly ordinary one about the value of a real Constable in the Leaf case can lead us astray. The ‘object lesson in speculation,’ which I use the Leaf case to demonstrate, is the trap that legal teachers and scholars often fall into because we do not engage in actual investigation of what happened in law school casebook cases. At the same time, however, such investigation sits uncomfortably with the role and function of cases in the common law, which uses reported appellate cases in a very specific way. This article is an investigation of this problem, approached through the lens of the Leaf case.
Analysis of Planning Decisions during the Activity-Scheduling Process
Authors: Ruiz Tomás , Roorda Matthew J.
Published: November 2008

This paper focuses on studying the incidence of different types of activity-scheduling decisions, using data from a computerized activity-scheduling survey (CHASE) conducted in Toronto, Canada. Several decisions are studied: with whom the activity takes place, location of the activity, the time planning horizon, and modification or deletion of activities during the scheduling process. The results from a multivariate probit model show that several characteristics of the planned schedule and planned activities are most important in explaining the decisions made during the scheduling process. Individual and household characteristics also play an important role. Significant correlations among the planning decisions suggest that the process of activity scheduling occurs with a high degree of endogeneity.
Weekly Rhythm in Joint Time Expenditure for All At-Home and Out-of-Home Activities
Authors: Habib Khandker M. Nurul , Miller Eric J. , Axhausen Kay W.
Published: November 2008

This paper uses the Kuhn-Tucker demand system modeling technique to investigate the capacity of a typical week in capturing rhythms in activity-travel behavior. It considers all possible activity types within a weeklong modeling time frame. Complex interactions in time expenditure between at-home and out-of-home activities and among different out-of-home activities are captured by introducing behavioral elements in the model in terms of baseline preference, time translation, and satiation effects. The Kuhn-Tucker demand system model used in this paper is a random utility maximization model with the inherent assumption that every individual maximizes total utility in allocating time to the activities under consideration within the modeling time frame. Models are developed for each individual week of a 6-week travel diary drawn from the MobiDrive data set for Karlsruhe and Halle, Germany. Each model contains 83 variables and reveals behavioral details of complex activity-travel behavior. Based on the performances of the models in terms of fitting observed data and parameter values of specific variables, it is clear that a modeling time frame for a typical week is capable of capturing the rhythms of activity-travel behavior sufficiently. The paper concludes with the recommendation that the availability of activity diary data for a multiweek time period would further enhance understanding on this issue.
Random Utility-Based Microeconomic Model for Discretionary Activity Time Allocation
Authors: Meloni Italo , Bez Massimiliano , Spissu Erika
Published: November 2008

This paper proposes a microeconomic model for activity time allocation analysis that recognizes the random nature of daily time allocation, while also focusing on activities as a direct source of individual utility. More specifically, different levels of satisfaction (or utility) are gained from activity participation depending on the amount of time allocated to and the type of goods utilized in daily activities. The proposed model represents individual utility as a function of activity participation, accounts for the budget constraint in activity time allocation, allows for the interindi-vidual and interactivity variation of utility, and considers the entire sphere of discretionary activities (in-home as well as out-of-home activities and trips). The aim of this study is to show how including a budget constraint in random utility models avoids overestimating the times allocated to activities and trips estimated by earlier random utility-based models that consider only time constraints. In particular, estimates of in-home and out-of-home discretionary activity and trip times for a sample of Italian single individuals from the 2003 National Institute of Statistics (ISTAT) Time Use Survey are presented. Compared with the estimates obtained using the simply time-constrained model with no budget constraint, the empirical findings show the variable effects to be interpreted in the same way. A greater number of significant variables in the double-constrained model denote greater complexity of the phenomenon to be represented. Incorporating the budget constraint diminishes the effect of some variables on activity time allocation.
Improved Motif Identification of Activity Sequences
Authors: Joh Chang-Hyeon , Ettema Dick , Timmermans Harry
Published: November 2008

This paper reports the main findings of a study conducted to improve the applicability of motif search to identify segments in activity-travel sequences. The improvement concerns the provision of a statistical criterion of identifying motifs as the key structural information of activity sequencing and simultaneous decisions of activity implementation. The suggested approach is applied to the data, originally collected using the interactive computerized procedure MAGIC to estimate the Simulation Model of Activity Scheduling Heuristics (SMASH) model. The results of the application illustrate that the suggested motif search method depicts the key structural information of activity patterns of a group and distinguishes among different patterns. The paper details the findings and ends with conclusions and a discussion.
Network Equilibrium with Activity-Based Microsimulation Models
Authors: Vovsha Peter , Donnelly Robert , Gupta Surabhi
Published: November 2008

Travel demand models and network simulation models are distinct sets of procedures that are combined and interact within the framework of regional transportation modeling systems. Conventional four-step models have numerous limitations compared with more advanced activity-based microsimulation models, primarily with respect to internal consistency and detailed behavioral realism. However, two of the remaining advantages of four-step models are an established theory and an effective set of practical rules for achieving global network equilibrium so that travel time and cost simulated in the networks exactly correspond to the demand (trip tables) generated by the model. Nonetheless, this issue remains less explored and somewhat obscure for activity-based models. These models have a more complicated analytical structure compared with four-step models, which makes it difficult to derive equilibrium conditions in a rigorous theoretical manner. In addition, implementation of an activity-based model requires microsimulation of individual outcomes in the form of “crisp” discrete choices that is very different from the summation of fractional probabilities implemented in conventional models. This paper documents the results of testing various equilibrium strategies implemented with the New York City activity-based microsimulation regional travel demand model used by the New York Metropolitan Transportation Council. The purpose of the paper is twofold. First, it is intended to outline some fundamental research directions and extensions of the network equilibrium theory to cover activity-based microsimulation models in a more rigorous way. Second, it describes realistic levels of convergence that can be achieved with activity-based microsimulation models in practice and establishes practical rules and protocols for using these types of models for different projects and policies.
A Simulation Approach to Evaluating Productivity Improvement at a Seaport Coal Terminal
Authors: Harris Gregory A. , Holden Anthony R. , Schroer Bernard J. , Möeller D. P. F.
Published: November 2008

The use of simulation in evaluating the impact of productivity improvement activities at the McDuffie Coal Terminal located at the Alabama State Docks in Mobile, Alabama, is discussed. Simulations are being employed for port and terminal operations at an increasing rate because of the value derived as decision support tools. A description of the productivity improvement events, the conceptual framework of the simulation model, and an analysis of the simulation results are presented.
A Computable General Equilibrium Model of the U.S. Economy to Evaluate Maritime Infrastructure Investments
Authors: Siegesmund Peter , Luskin David , Fujiwara Luis , Tsigas Marinos
Published: November 2008

Recent research utilizing a computable general equilibrium (CGE) model of the U.S. economy called United States Applied General Equilibrium–International Trade Commission (USAGE-ITC) to evaluate the national effects of maritime infrastructure investment in Texas is described. After a brief description of the model, which was developed for the U.S. International Trade Commission, the present application to an analysis of federal investments in channel deepening along Texas’ shallow draft waterways is discussed and future transportation applications are suggested. The estimates of national economic benefits from the analyzed investments are significant and illustrate the potential contribution of CGE models to the evaluation of infrastructure investment programs of federal agencies, such as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The objective of this paper is to increase awareness among transportation researchers and planners of the role for CGE models in evaluations of transportation infrastructure projects and programs.
Terminals and the Competitiveness of Container Barge Transport
Authors: Konings Rob , Priemus Hugo
Published: November 2008

Low-cost operations have traditionally formed the competitive edge of inland shipping. Because of the exploitation of these comparative advantages, the barge sector has succeeded in gaining a substantial market share in container transport. The cost and quality performance of terminals play a major role in improving the competitiveness of container barge transport. Terminal handling is a major cost frontier because the share of terminal costs in the total chain of costs of barge transport is relatively large. The handling of barges in seaports is especially expensive. To enable new types of cost-efficient barge services, additional functions for terminals come into play (i.e., there is a new challenge for the functional performance of barge inland terminals). This paper explores the future requirements and opportunities of barge terminals to improve further the competitiveness of container barge transport. The relationship between barge network design and terminal design is relevant. Based on a review of the major cost drivers in barge handling and the role of terminals in barge service networks, new challenges for container barge handling and possible solutions are discussed. A major conclusion is that a differentiated approach is needed in developing new terminal and handling concepts. The major drivers for this differentiated approach are the container volumes to be handled and the position of the terminal in the network.
Occurrence of Deoxynivalenol in Maize and Wheat in Serbia
Authors: Jajić Igor , Jurić Verica , Glamočić Dragan , Abramović Biljana
Published: November 2008

A total of 226 samples of maize and 59 of wheat from the 2004−2007 harvests were investigated for the presence and concentration of deoxynivalenol (DON). Samples of the 2004 harvest were analyzed after their storing for one year in barns, while those of the 2005−2007 harvest were taken directly off fields immediately after the harvest. The samples were analyzed by liquid chromatography on an ODS Hypersil column with DAD detector and ELISA methods. The average incidence rate of DON in maize from the 2004 harvest was 50% (concentration range 0.042−2.460 mg/kg, average value 0.536 mg/kg), while for those of the 2005−2007 harvest it was 32.4% (concentration range 0.027−2.210 mg/kg, average value 0.223 mg/kg). In the case of wheat incidence rate of DON for 2004 harvest was 50.0% (concentration range 0.630−1.840 mg/kg, average value 1.235 mg/kg), while for those of the 2005−2007 harvest it was 34.5% (concentration range 0.057−0.423 mg/kg, average value 0.190 mg/kg). Concentrations in two samples of maize and one of wheat (one sample of each cereal being of the 2004 harvest) were above the maximum level adopted by the European Commission. The results obtained were analyzed as a function of climatic conditions and compared with those of the neighboring countries where the relevant data existed.
Effects of Milling and Cooking Processes on the Deoxynivalenol Content in Wheat
Authors: Kushiro Masayo
Published: November 2008

Deoxynivalenol (DON, vomitoxin) is a natural-occuring mycotoxin mainly produced by Fusarium graminearum, a food-borne fungi widely distributed in crops and it is one of the most important mycotoxins in wheat and wheat-based foods and feeds. DON affects animal and human health causing diarrhea, vomiting, gastro-intestinal inflammation, and immunomodulation. Since the rate of the occurrence of DON in wheat is high, effective procedures to remove or eliminate DON from food products is essential to minimize exposures in those who consume large amounts of wheat. Cleaning prior to milling reduced to some extent the concentration of DON in final products. Since DON is distributed throughout the kernels, with higher content in the outer skin, milling is also effective in reducing the DON levels of wheat-based foods if bran and shorts are removed before thermal cooking. DON is water-soluble and cooking with larger amounts of water lowers DON content in products such as spaghetti and noodles. During baking or heating, DON is partially degraded to DON-related chemicals, whose toxicological effects are not studied well. This paper reviews the researches on the effects of milling and cooking on the DON level and discusses the perspectives of further studies.
Synthesis and Structural Characterization of the 5-(2-Haloethyl)pyrimidines – Hydrogen-Bonded chains in α-(1-Carbamyliminomethylene)-γ-Butyrolactone
Authors: Gazivoda Tatjana , Raić-Malić Silvana , Hergold-Brundić Antonija , Cetina Mario
Published: November 2008

Three novel 5-(2-haloethyl)pyrimidine derivatives were synthesized and characterized by 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, MS, IR spectra and elemental analysis. Iodine and chlorine atoms in the C-5 side chain were introduced by reaction of 5-(2-hydroxyethyl)pyrimidine with hydroiodic acid and phosphoryl chloride, respectively. The structure of the intermediate α-(1-carbamyliminomethylene)-γ-butyrolactone was determined by X-ray crystal structure analysis. The molecule deviates very slightly from planarity. Three N−H···O hydrogen bonds link the molecules into one-dimensional chains of edge-fused rings.
Countries with fewer males have more violent crime: marriage markets and mating aggression
Authors: Barber Nigel
Published: November 2008

Violent crimes (murders, rapes, and assaults) are substantiallyhigherin countries with a relativescarcityof men according to research using INTERPOL data [Barber, 2000a]. This is a paradox given that males are more criminally violent and likely reflects increased direct mating competition. The present research sought to confirm and extend Barber's [2000a] finding, using murder data from the United Nations and homicides from World Health Organization that are of higher quality than the INTERPOL data, and using more rigorous controls. In addition to level of economic development, control variables included, income inequality, urbanization, population density, the number of police, and whether the country was a major center of illegal drug trafficking. Regression analyses with all controls found that killings in both data sets increased withdeclinesin the male proportion of the population. The findings are discussed in terms of direct reproductive competition and alternative explanations are considered. Aggr. Behav. 35:49–56, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Relationships between individualism–collectivism, gender, and direct or indirect aggression: a study in China, Poland, and the US
Authors: Forbes Gordon , Zhang Xiaoying , Doroszewicz Krystyna , Haas Kelly
Published: November 2008

Direct and indirect aggression were studied in college students from China (women n=122; men n=97), a highly collectivistic culture; the US (women n=137; men n=136), a highly individualistic culture; and Poland (women n=105; men n=119), a culture with intermediate levels of collectivism and individualism. Consistent with a hypothesis derived from national differences in relative levels of collectivism and individualism, both direct and indirect aggression were higher in the US than in Poland and higher in Poland than in China. The theoretical implication of these results and directions for future research were discussed. Aggr. Behav. 35:24–30, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.