bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of different aspects of social participation and social capital on smoking cessation among daily smokers: a longitudinal study
Authors: Lindström M , Isacsson S-O , Elmståhl S
Published: September 2003

Objective:To investigate differences in different aspects of social participation and social capital among baseline daily smokers that had remained daily smokers, become intermittent smokers, or stopped smoking at one year follow up.

Design/setting/participants/measurements:12 507 individuals, aged 45–69 years, interviewed at baseline between 1992 and 1994 and at a one year follow up were investigated in this longitudinal study. The three groups of baseline daily smokers were compared to the reference population (baseline intermittent smokers and non-smokers) according to different aspects of social participation and social capital. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to assess differences in different aspects of social participation and social capital.

Results:The baseline daily smokers that remained daily smokers at the one year follow up had significantly increased odds ratios of non-participation in study circles in other places than at work, meeting of organisations other than unions, theatre/cinema, arts exhibition, church, sports events, large gatherings of relatives, and private parties compared to the reference population. The baseline daily smokers that had become intermittent smokers at the one year follow up had significantly increased odds ratios of non-participation in church services. The baseline daily smokers that had stopped smoking had increased odds ratios of non-participation in having attended a meeting of organisations other than labour unions during the past year, having been to a theatre or cinema, and of having visited an arts exhibition during the past year. All three categories of baseline daily smokers had significantlydecreasedodds ratios of non-participation in night club/entertainment.

Conclusions:The baseline daily smokers that had remained daily smokers at the one year follow up had particularly high rates of non-participation compared to the reference population in both activities specifically related to social capital, such as other study circles, meetings of organisations other than labour unions, and church attendance and cultural activities such as theatre/cinema and arts exhibition, although significantly lower participation in cultural activities and meetings of other organisations was also observed among daily smokers that had stopped smoking. All three baseline daily smoker groups had higher rates of having visited a night club during the past year.
Smoke-free cafe in an unregulated European city: highly welcomed and economically successful
Authors: Künzli N , Mazzoletti P , Adam M , Götschi T , Mathys P , Monn C , Brändli O
Published: September 2003

Objective:In a unique setting with two identical cafes, which only differed in their smoking ordinances, this study assessed the influence of smoking policies on the choice of the cafe, investigated regulatory preferences among customers, and evaluated the claim that smoking cafes have better sales performance in a city without smoking bans.

Methods:In a parallel assessment, customers of both cafes answered a questionnaire. Sales were compared and air pollutants were measured to confirm air quality differences.

Results:The two customer groups (n = 177) differed only with regard to smoking status (p < 0.01). The smoking regulation was the most often cited selection criterion (83%). In the non-smoking café, 89% indicated that they were usually annoyed by smoke in coffee houses, and 62% would avoid or leave cafes for this reason. Two thirds stated that all cafe/restaurants should offer the opportunity of a smoke-free environment. However, almost half stated that mandatory regulations are not needed and that customers should make individual arrangements based on tolerance and courtesy. Those who were informed about the health effects of secondhand smoke were more likely to call for clear policies. Whereas sales showed no differences, tips were 22% (p < 0.001) higher in the non-smoking cafe.

Conclusion:In a generation raised in smoking friendly environments, customers paradoxically ask for a landmark shift towards smoke-free opportunities, while substantially adhering to the tobacco industry paradigm of promoting “tolerance” rather than smoke-free policies. Given the clear preference of a large number of customers, hospitality businesses could, however, greatly profit from offering smoke-free environments even in the absence of regulatory policies.
Impact of UK National Health Service smoking cessation services: variations in outcomes in England
Authors: Bauld L , Chesterman J , Judge K , Pound E , Coleman T
Published: September 2003

Objectives:To determine the extent to which UK National Health Service (NHS) smoking cessation services in England reach smokers and support them to quit at four weeks, and to identify which service and area characteristics contribute to observed outcomes.

Design:Ordinary least squares regression was used to investigate local smoking outcomes in relation to characteristics of health authorities and their smoking cessation services.

Setting:76 health authorities (from a total of 99) in England from April 2000 to March 2001.

Main outcome measures:Reach—number of smokers attending cessation services and setting a quit date as a percentage of the adult smoking population in each health authority.Absolute success—number of smokers setting a quit date who subsequently reported quitting at four weeks (not having smoked between two and four weeks after quit date).Cessation rate—number of smokers who reported quitting at four weeks as a percentage of those setting a quit date.Loss—percentage lost to follow up.

Results:A range of service and area characteristics was associated with each outcome. For example, group support proved more effective than one to one interventions in helping a greater proportion of smokers to quit at four weeks. Services based in health action zones were reaching larger numbers of smokers. However, services operating in deprived communities achieved lower cessation rates than those in more prosperous areas.

Conclusions:Well developed, evidence based NHS smoking cessation services, reflecting good practice, are yielding positive outcomes in England. However, most of the data are based on self reported smoking status at four weeks. It will be important to obtain validated data about continuous cessation over one year or more in order to assess longer term impact.
Persistent use of nicotine replacement therapy: an analysis of actual purchase patterns in a population based sample
Authors: Shiffman S , Hughes J R , Pillitteri J L , Burton S L
Published: September 2003

Background:In 1996, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved switching nicotine gum and patch from prescription to over-the-counter (OTC) status. Some expressed concerns that broader availability and lack of physician control might increase persistent use of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT)—that is, use beyond the period specified by the FDA approved label.

Objective:To estimate the incidence of persistent use of OTC nicotine gum and patch for periods of > 3 months, ⩾ 6 months, ⩾ 12 months, and ⩾ 24 months.

Design:Analysis of NRT purchase patterns in data from a population based panel of US households that electronically scanned all household purchases between January 1997 and March 2000.

Subjects:In a national panel of 40 000 US households, 2690 recorded NRT purchases.

Results:Among 805 households that purchased nicotine gum, 2.3% of new purchase incidents led to continuous monthly purchase of gum for ⩾ 6 months. For nicotine patches (2050 households) the percentage was 0.9%. For both gum and patch, the incidence of persistent purchase dropped below 0.4% by 24 months. Allowing one month gaps within a “continuous” purchase run resulted in increased estimates (for gum: 6.7% for ⩾ 6 months and 1.0% for ⩾ 24 months; for patch: 1.7% for ⩾ 6 months and 0.05% for ⩾ 24 months).

Conclusion:Persistent use of nicotine gum and patch is very rare and has not increased with the transition to OTC use, despite removal of physician oversight.
A Premiere example of the illusion of harm reduction cigarettes in the 1990s
Authors: Pollay R W , Dewhirst T
Published: September 2003

Objective:To use the product launch of Player’s Premiere as a case study for understanding the new cigarette product development process during the 1990s. We determine the (in)validity of industry claims that: (1) development of the physical product preceded the promotional promise of “less irritation”; (2) “less irritation” was actually realised; (3) advertising informed consumers; and (4) advertising regulations caused the product’s failure in the marketplace.

Setting:Court proceedings assessing the constitutionality of Canada’s Tobacco Act, which substantially restricts cigarette advertising. The 2002 Quebec Superior Court trial yielded a new collection of internal documents from Imperial Tobacco Ltd (ITL), including several about the development and marketing of Player’s Premiere.

Method:Trial testimony and corporate documents were reviewed to determine the validity of the industry representations about the new cigarette product development process, focusing on the case history of Player’s Premiere.

Results:In direct contradiction to industry testimony, the documentary evidence demonstrates that (1) communications for Player’s Premiere, which claimed less irritation, were developed long before finding a product that could deliver on the promise; (2) ITL did not sell a “less irritating” product that matched its promotional promise; (3) the advertising and other communications for Player’s Premiere were extensive, relying on the hi-tech appearances (“tangible credibility”) of a “unique” filter, yet were uninformative and vague; and (4) Player’s Premiere failed in the marketplace, despite extensive advertising and retail support, because it was an inferior product that did not live up to its promotional promise, not because of regulation of commercial speech.

Conclusions:New product development entails extensive consumer research to craft all communications tools in fine detail. In the case of Player’s Premiere, this crafting created a false and misleading impression of technological advances producing a “less irritating” cigarette. This product was solely a massive marketing ploy with neither consumer benefits, nor public health benefits. The industry attempted to deceive both consumers and the court.
Exposure to secondhand smoke and excess lung cancer mortality risk among workers in the “5 B’s”: bars, bowling alleys, billiard halls, betting establishments, and bingo parlours
Authors: Siegel M , Skeer M
Published: September 2003

Objective:To review existing data on exposure to secondhand smoke in bars, bowling alleys, billiard halls, betting establishments, and bingo parlours (the “5 B’s”) as assessed by ambient nicotine air concentration measurements and to estimate the excess lung cancer mortality risk associated with this exposure.

Data sources:Using the Medline, Toxline, and Toxnet databases, the internet, and bibliographies of relevant articles, we identified studies that reported measurements of ambient nicotine concentrations in the 5 B’s.

Study selection:Studies were included if they reported a mean concentration of ambient nicotine measured in at least one of the 5 B’s.

Data extraction:We calculated a weighted average of nicotine concentrations in each of the 5 B’s. We then estimated the working lifetime excess lung cancer mortality risk associated with this exposure, as well as with exposure at the upper and lower limits of the range of mean exposures reported in all of the studies in each establishment category.

Data synthesis:Nicotine concentrations in the 5 B’s were 2.4 to 18.5 times higher than in offices or residences, and 1.5 to 11.7 times higher than in restaurants. At these exposure levels, estimated working lifetime excess lung cancer mortality risk from secondhand smoke exposure for workers in the 5 B’s is between 1.0–4.1/1000, which greatly exceeds the typical de manifestis risk level of 0.3/1000.

Conclusions:Workers in the 5 B’s have high levels of occupational exposure to secondhand smoke and must be included in workplace smoking regulations.
Microsatellite analysis of population structure in the shortfin mako (Isurus oxyrinchus)
Authors: Schrey Aaron W , Heist Edward J
Published: September 2003

Microsatellite analysis of the shortfin mako shark (Isurus oxyrinchus) revealed very weak evidence of population structure. Samples collected from the North Atlantic, South Atlantic, North Pacific, South Pacific, and Atlantic, and Pacific coasts of South Africa were screened at four microsatellite loci. Multilocus measures of population subdivision were much lower than expected (FST= 0.0014, P = 0.1292; RST= 0.0029, P = 0.019). Power analysis revealed that the study had a high level of power (>0.995) to detect the magnitude of FSTexpected based on a previous study of mtDNA and assumptions of equal male and female dispersal. Thus, integrating the results from microsatellite- and mitochondrial-based studies may provide evidence for gender-biased dispersal for the shortfin mako.
Difficulties in relating Cd concentrations in the predatory insectChaoborusto those of its prey in nature
Authors: Croteau Marie-Noële , Hare Landis , Tessier André
Published: September 2003

Because Chaoborus larvae take up most of their cadmium (Cd) from food, we tested the hypothesis that Cd concentrations in this insect are directly related to those in their planktonic prey. We measured Cd in Chaoborus and in zooplankton collected from 24 eastern Canadian lakes varying widely in their Cd concentrations. Cd concentrations in the predator were not correlated with those in bulk zooplankton, whether separated into size fractions liable to be eaten by Chaoborus or not. In highly acidic lakes, Cd concentrations in Chaoborus did not respond to increases in zooplankton Cd because of either competition between H and Cd ions at Cd absorption sites in the predator's gut or differences in prey community composition between highly acidic and circumneutral lakes. Relationships between Cd in Chaoborus and in its potential prey were stronger when we used Cd concentrations for specific crustacean taxa in a mechanistic model. We conclude that predictive relationships between metal concentrations in predators and their prey are likely to be strongest if the subset of prey consumed by the predator has been characterized and if this information is used in a bioaccumulation model.
Use of the Kalman filter to reconstruct historical trends in productivity of Bristol Bay sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka)
Authors: Peterman Randall M , Pyper Brian J , MacGregor Brice W
Published: September 2003

Fisheries scientists and managers are concerned about potential long-term, persistent changes in productivity of fish stocks that might result from future climatic changes or other alterations in aquatic systems. However, because of large natural variability and measurement error in fisheries data, such changes are usually difficult to detect until long after they occur. Previous research using numerous Monte Carlo simulation trials showed that a Kalman filter performed better than standard estimation techniques in detecting such trends in a timely manner. Therefore, we used historical data along with a Kalman filter that included a time-varying Ricker a parameter to reconstruct changes in productivity (recruits per spawner at a given spawner abundance) of eight Bristol Bay, Alaska, sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka) stocks over the past 40 years. Productivity generally increased for most stocks but varied widely for others and dramatically decreased in another. Such large changes in productivity are important for management. They greatly affected optimal spawner abundances and optimal exploitation rates, suggesting that in the future, scientists should consider using models with time-varying productivity parameters.
Ground motion amplification factors for the proposed 2005 edition of the National Building Code of Canada
Authors: Finn W.D Liam , Wightman Adrian
Published: September 2003

Foundation factors are used in seismic codes to capture the amplification effects of local soil conditions on ground motions and, hence, on seismic design forces. Recent developments in categorizing site conditions for seismic codes and assigning intensity- and frequency-dependent amplification factors to the various site classes are presented to provide a basis for understanding the new foundation factors proposed for the 2005 edition of the National Building Code of Canada.Key words: design spectra, site characterization, amplification factors.
Estimating the urban metabolism of Canadian cities: Greater Toronto Area case study
Authors: Sahely Halla R , Dudding Shauna , Kennedy Christopher A
Published: September 2003

An urban metabolism analysis is a means of quantifying the overall fluxes of energy, water, material, and wastes into and out of an urban region. Analysis of urban metabolism can provide important information about energy efficiency, material cycling, waste management, and infrastructure in urban systems. This paper presents the first urban metabolism of a Canadian urban region, and possibly the first for a North American city. It also makes a first attempt at comparing the urban metabolisms of a few cities worldwide. The most noticeable feature of the Greater Toronto Area metabolism is that inputs have generally increased at higher rates than outputs over the study years (1987 and 1999). The inputs of water and electricity have increased marginally less than the rate of population growth (25.6%), and estimated inputs for food and gasoline have increased by marginally greater percentages than the population. With the exception of CO2 emissions, the measured output parameters are growing slower than the population; residential solid wastes and wastewater loadings have actually decreased in absolute terms over the 12 year period from 1987 to 1999.Key words: urban metabolism, urban sustainability, Canadian cities, materials, food, water and energy consumption, waste outputs.
Dynamic response of a beam on a frequency-independent damped elastic foundation to moving load
Authors: Kim Seong-Min , Roesset Jose M
Published: September 2003

The dynamic displacement response of an infinitely long beam on an elastic foundation with frequency-independent linear hysteretic damping subjected to a constant amplitude or a harmonic moving load was investigated. The advance velocity was assumed to be constant. Formulations were developed in the transformed field domain using (i) a Fourier transform in moving space for moving loads of constant amplitude, (ii) a double Fourier transform in time and moving space for moving loads of arbitrary amplitude variation or to include the transient due to the initial application of the load for moving harmonic loads, and (iii) a Fourier transform in moving space for the steady-state response to moving harmonic loads. The effects of velocity, damping, loaded length, and load frequency on the deflected shape and the maximum displacement were investigated. The critical (resonant) velocities and frequencies were obtained by analyses, and expressions to find them were suggested.Key words: beam on elastic foundation, damping, Fourier transform, frequency, harmonic load, moving load, transformed field, velocity.
Seismic force modification factors for the proposed 2005 edition of the National Building Code of Canada
Authors: Mitchell Denis , Tremblay Robert , Karacabeyli Erol , Paultre Patrick , Saatcioglu Murat , Anderson Donald L
Published: September 2003

This paper describes the proposed changes to the 2005 edition of the National Building Code of Canada related to the force modification factors. A description of the ductility- and overstrength-related force modification factors is given. The selection of the values proposed for these two factors for the various seismic force resistance systems is given in light of the design and detailing provisions that are specified in the Canadian Standards Association standards for steel, concrete, timber, and masonry building structures.Key words: buildings, ductility, earthquakes, force modification factors, overstrength, seismic.
Prey use by red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) in urban and rural areas of Illinois
Authors: Lavin Shana R , Van Deelen Timothy R , Brown Patrick W , Warner Richard E , Ambrose Stanley H
Published: September 2003

Decline of red fox (Vulpes vulpes) populations in Illinois has been attributed to altered geographic landscapes and the eastward expansion of the coyote. To investigate effects of habitat use and competition with coyotes on diets of foxes in intensively farmed landscapes of Illinois, we analyzed carbon and nitrogen isotope ratios (δ13C and δ15N) of foxes, coyotes (Canis latrans), and other local species. Foxes were categorized as rural (agricultural habitat, coyotes present), urban (urban habitat, coyotes absent), or from an agricultural research facility at the University of Illinois (South Farms, agricultural habitat, coyotes absent). Rural foxes had higher fur isotopic values (δ13C and δ15N) than rural coyotes, indicating that coyotes caused foxes to consume prey items from higher trophic levels and eat more C4plants. Urban foxes had lower isotopic values (δ13C and δ15N) than South Farms foxes, suggesting that habitat use partly determined fox diets; foxes in urbanized habitats consumed prey at lower trophic levels within a largely C3plant based food web. Models of competitive exclusion by coyotes were better predictors of fox long-term diets, including pup rearing, while habitat use models predicted fox diets on a narrower timescale. Competitive exclusion by coyotes might be an important factor explaining the decline of foxes in the intense farming areas of Illinois.
FPGA Implementation of a Pyramidal Weightless Neural Networks Learning System
Authors: Al-Alawi Raida
Published: September 2003

A hardware architecture of a Probabilistic Logic Neuron (PLN) is presented. The suggested model facilitates the on-chip learning of pyramidal Weightless Neural Networks using a modified probabilistic search reward/penalty training algorithm. The penalization strategy of the training algorithm depends on a predefined parameter called the probabilistic search interval. A complete Weightless Neural Network (WNN) learning system is modeled and implemented on Xilinx XC4005E Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), allowing its architecture to be configurable. Various experiments have been conducted to examine the feasibility and performance of the WNN learning system. Results show that the system has a fast convergence rate and good generalization ability.
Novel Neutral Network Approach to Call Admission Control in High-speed Networks
Authors: Leng Supeng , Subramanian K. R. , Sundararajan N. , Saratchandran P.
Published: September 2003

This paper presents a novel Call Admission Control (CAC) scheme which adopts the neural network approach, namely Minimal Resource Allocation Network (MRAN) and its extended version EMRAN. Though the current focus is on the Call Admission Control (CAC) for Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) networks, the scheme is applicable to most high-speed networks. As there is a need for accurate estimation of the required bandwidth for different services, the proposed scheme can offer a simple design procedure and provide a better control in fulfilling the Quality of Service (QoS) requirements. MRAN and EMRAN are on-line learning algorithms to facilitate efficient admission control in different traffic environments. Simulation results show that the proposed CAC schemes are more efficient than the two conventional CAC approaches, the Peak Bandwidth Allocation scheme and the Cell Loss Ratio (CLR) upperbound formula scheme. The prediction precision and computational time of MRAN and EMRAN algorithms are also investigated. Both MRAN and EMRAN algorithms yield similar performance results, but the EMRAN algorithm has less computational load.
Fingerprint Matching Using Recurrent Autoassociative Memory
Authors: Poorna B. , Easwarakumar K. S.
Published: September 2003

An efficient method for fingerprint searching using recurrent autoassociative memory is proposed. This algorithm uses recurrent autoassociative memory, which uses a connectivity matrix to find if the pattern being searched is already stored in the database. The advantage of this memory is that a big database is to be searched only if there is a matching pattern. Fingerprint comparison is usually based on minutiae matching, and its efficiency depends on the extraction of minutiae. This process may reduce the speed, when large amount of data is involved. So, in the proposed method, a simple approach has been adopted, wherein first determines the closely matched fingerprint images, and then determines the minutiae of only those images for finding the more appropriate one. The gray level value of pixels along with its neighboring ones are considered for the extraction of minutiae, which is more easier than using ridge information. This approach is best suitable when database size is large.
A New Modulated Hebbian Learning Rule — Biologically Plausible Method for Local Computation of a Principal Subspace
Authors: Jankovic Marko , Ogawa Hidemitsu
Published: September 2003

This paper presents one possible implementation of a transformation that performs linear mapping to a lower-dimensional subspace. Principal component subspace will be the one that will be analyzed. Idea implemented in this paper represents generalization of the recently proposed ∞OH neural method for principal component extraction. The calculations in the newly proposed method are performed locally — a feature which is usually considered as desirable from the biological point of view. Comparing to some other wellknown methods, proposed synaptic efficacy learning rule requires less information about the value of the other efficacies to make single efficacy modification. Synaptic efficacies are modified by implementation of Modulated Hebb-type (MH) learning rule. Slightly modified MH algorithm named Modulated Hebb Oja (MHO) algorithm, will be also introduced. Structural similarity of the proposed network with part of the retinal circuit will be presented, too.
Correcting Distortions in Panoramic Images Using Constructive Neural Networks
Authors: Ekpar Frank , Yoneda Masaaki , Hase Hiroyuki
Published: September 2003

This paper presents a novel approach to the correction of panoramic (wide-angle) image distortions. Unlike traditional methods that separate the distortion of the panoramic image into radial and tangential components and then concentrate on the correction of one type of distortion at a time, the method presented in this paper uses an integrated approach that simultaneously corrects all non-linear distortions of the panoramic image. The system uses data obtained from carefully constructed calibration patterns to automatically build and train a constructive neural network of suitable complexity to approximate the characteristic distortion of the panoramic image. The trained neural network is then used to correct the distortions represented by the sample data. It is demonstrated that by applying the distortion correction method presented in this paper to panoramic images representing real world scenes, perspective-corrected views of the real world scene that are usable in a wide variety of applications can be generated.
The Relationship Between Entropy and Strong Orbit Equivalence for the Minimal Homeomorphisms (I)
Authors: Sugisaki Fumiaki
Published: September 2003

For every minimal homeomorphism of a Cantor set its strongly orbit equivalence class contains homeomorphisms of all possible finite entropies.
Coverings of Directed Graphs and Crossed Products of C*-Algebras by Coactions of Homogeneous Spaces
Authors: Deicke Klaus , Pask David , Raeburn Iain
Published: September 2003

We show that if p:F→E is a covering of directed graphs, then the Cuntz–Krieger algebra C*(F) of F can be viewed as a crossed product of C*(E) by a coaction of a homogeneous space for the fundamental group π1(E). Combining this result with information about Cuntz–Krieger algebras gives some interesting corollaries which suggest conjectures about crossed products by coactions of homogeneous spaces of discrete groups. We then prove these conjectures.
Coherent Systems and Brill–Noether Theory
Authors: Bradlow S. B. , García-Prada O. , Muñoz V. , Newstead P. E.
Published: September 2003

Let X be a curve of genus g. A coherent system on X consists of a pair (E,V), where E is an algebraic vector bundle over X of rank n and degree d and V is a subspace of dimension k of the space of sections of E. The stability of the coherent system depends on a parameter α. We study the variation of the moduli space of coherent systems when we move the parameter. As an application, we analyze the cases k=1,2,3 and n=2 explicitly. For small values of α, the moduli spaces of coherent systems are related to the Brill–Noether loci, the subschemes of the moduli spaces of stable bundles consisting of those bundles with at least a prescribed number of independent sections. The study of coherent systems is applied to find the dimension, prove the irreducibility, and in some cases calculate the Picard groups of the Brill–Noether loci with k≤3.
Precision Tests of the Electroweak Theory
Authors: Gurtu Atul
Published: September 2003

Electroweak data from the high energy electron–positron and proton–antiproton colliders are reviewed. On the whole the data is consistent with and supports the predictions of the electroweak theory. However, a crucial prediction of the theory remains to be verified: the existence of the Higgs boson and its light mass, less than 193 GeV, obtained from a fit to all the data within the electroweak framework. The lower limit on its mass from direct searches being 114 GeV, the mass of the Higgs is fixed within a narrow range which is expected to be explored at the Fermilab Tevatron experiments or later at the Large Hadron Collider at CERN.
Tadpole and Anomaly Cancellation Conditions in D-Brane Orbifold Models
Authors: Angulo Maria E. , Bailin David , Yang Huan-Xiong
Published: September 2003

We derive and generalize the RR twisted tadpole cancellation conditions necessary to obtain consistent D=4, ZNorbifold compactifications of Type IIB string theory. At least two different types of branes (or antibranes with opposite RR charges) are introduced into the construction. The matter spectra and their contribution to the non-Abelian gauge anomalies are computed. Their relation with the tadpole cancellation conditions is also reviewed. The presence of tachyons is a common feature for some of the nonsupersymmetric systems of branes.
Mixing Renormalization for Scalar Fields
Authors: Bouzas Antonio O.
Published: September 2003

We consider the renormalization of theories with many scalar fields. We discuss at the one-loop level some simple, non-gauge models with an arbitrary number of scalars and fermions both in mass-shell and MS schemes. In the MS scheme we give a detailed qualitative analysis of the RG flow of dimensionless couplings in flavor space.
Breaking of Charge Independence of Nucleon–Nucleon Interaction and Bulk Properties of Nuclear Matter
Authors: Bordbar G. H.
Published: September 2003

The effects of charge independence breaking of nucleon–nucleon interaction on the bulk properties of nuclear matter are investigated. Our results indicate that at high densities, the inclusion of charge dependence in the nucleon–nucleon potential affects the bulk properties of nuclear matter. However, at low densities, this effect is not considerable. It is seen that the change of our results for the nuclear matter calculations due to the breaking of the charge independence increases by increasing density. It is shown that the energy contribution of the 1S0 channel is sensitive to considering the charge dependence in the nucleon–nucleon interaction. It is indicated that the effects of charge independence breaking on the calculated equation of state of nuclear matter can be ignored.
Towards the Observation of Hawking Radiation in Bose–Einstein Condensates
Authors: Barceló Carlos , Liberati Stefano , Visser Matt
Published: September 2003

Acoustic analogues of black holes (dumb holes) are generated when a supersonic fluid flow entrains sound waves and forms a trapped region from which sound cannot escape. The surface of no return, the acoustic horizon, is qualitatively very similar to the event horizon of a general relativity black hole. In particular Hawking radiation (a thermal bath of phonons with temperature proportional to the "surface gravity") is expected to occur. In this note we consider quasi-one-dimensional supersonic flow of a Bose–Einstein condensate (BEC) in a Laval nozzle (converging-diverging nozzle), with a view to finding which experimental settings could magnify this effect and provide an observable signal. We discuss constraints and problems for our model and identify the issues that should be addressed in the near future in order to set up an experiment. In particular we identify an experimentally plausible configuration with a Hawking temperature of order 70 n K; to be contrasted with a condensation temperature of the order of 90 n K.
A Dissipative Quantum Dynamic Approach to Magnetic Hysteresis Loop and Magnetization Relaxation for Molecule Magnet Mn12
Authors: Su Yuanchang , Jiang Yongjin
Published: September 2003

A new approach to the magnetic hysteresis loop and magnetization relaxation of molecule magnet, Mn12, is presented. The method, so called "quasi-thermal equilibrium (QTE) + erase phase (EP)" (QTE + EP), leads the dissipation in state evolution. The method gives an method to approach an irreversible quantum dynamic tunnelling and time evolution of system and straightly leads the hysteresis loops. The QTE can work well for the double-well system and is able to be extended to the multi-wells quantum system. The EP is based on the physics of random interaction with the environment that results the phase de-coherence or say "re-initial" of the phase of quantum state during the time evolution. The stairs in the magnetic loops of Mn12 we have obtained quantitatively show the quantum resonant tunnelling. The relaxation of magnetization from initial lowest state is calculated for different temperatures and well shows the exponential behavior. The theoretical results well agree with the experiments.
Self-Consistent Mode-Coupling Theory, 1/d Expansion and Kolmogorov Turbulence
Authors: Nandy Malay K.
Published: September 2003

Starting with a self-consistent mode-coupling theory, which was obtained via renormalized perturbation expansion and dynamic scaling ideas, we implement a high d (space dimension) expansion coupled with ∊-expansion. From the theory, which is finite for the Kolmogorov régime, we extract the ultraviolet and infrared poles by means of a double Laurent expansion. The Kolmogorov constant C is found to be C = (40d/27)1/3 in the lowest contributing order of the high d expansion. This yields the value C = 1.64414 in three dimensions.
A Proposal of an Orbital-Dependent Correlation Energy Functional for Energy-Band Calculations
Authors: Higuchi Masahiko , Yasuhara Hiroshi
Published: September 2003

An explicitly orbital-dependent correlation energy functional is proposed, which is to be used in combination with the orbital-dependent exchange energy functional in energy-band calculations. It bears a close resemblance to the second-order direct and exchange perturbation terms calculated with Kohn–Sham orbitals and Kohn–Sham energies except that one of the two Coulomb interactions entering each term is replaced by an effective interaction which contains information about long-, intermediate-, and short-range correlations beyond second-order perturbation theory. Such an effective interaction can rigorously be defined for the correlation energy of the uniform electron liquid and is evaluated with high accuracy in order to apply to the orbital-dependent correlation energy functional. The coupling-constant-averaged spin-parallel and spin-antiparallel pair correlation functions are also evaluated with high accuracy for the electron liquid. The present orbital-dependent correlation energy functional with the effective interaction borrowed from the electron liquid is valid for tightly-binding electrons as well as for nearly-free electrons in marked contrast with the conventional local density approximation. There is a strong possibility that the present orbital-dependent correlation energy functional, if applied to the so-called strongly correlated electron systems, will produce the energy-band structure significantly different from that calculated only with the orbital-dependent exchange energy functional particularly in the neighborhood of the Fermi level or the energy gap. A detailed discussion, accompanied by an accurate calculation of the quasiparticle energy dispersion of the electron liquid, is given about the relationship between Kohn–Sham equations and Dyson equations in order to justify the application of Kohn–Sham equations to the band theory.
Extending the Search for Symmetries in the Genetic Code
Authors: Antoneli Fernando , Braggion Lígia , Forger Michael , Hornos José Eduardo M.
Published: September 2003

We report on the search for symmetries in the genetic code involving the medium rank simple Lie algebras [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], in the context of the algebraic approach originally proposed by one of the present authors, which aims at explaining the degeneracies encountered in the genetic code as the result of a sequence of symmetry breakings that have occurred during its evolution.
Binding Energies of Excitons in GaAs/AlAs Quantum Wells Under Pressure
Authors: Zhao Guojun , Liang X. X. , Ban S. L.
Published: September 2003

The binding energy of an exciton in the GaAs/AlAs quantum well is discussed including the influence of interface optical phonons and bulk longitudinal optical phonons confined in the well under hydrostatic pressure. The dependence of the phonon energies on pressure is considered using a linear interpolation method to obtain the pressure effect on the exciton binding energy by a variational calculation. The result shows that the polaronic effect on the exciton binding energies cannot be neglected and the pressure effect on the exciton-phonon interaction is obvious.
Simulations of the Nanomechanical Properties of Compressed Small Fullerenes
Authors: Zhang Z. X. , Pan Z. Y. , Wang Y. X. , Li Z. J. , Wei Q.
Published: September 2003

The nanomechanical properties of small fullerenes (C20, C36, C60 and C70) compressed between graphite planes are investigated based on molecular dynamics (MD) simulation using a combination of the many-body Brenner potential with a two-body potential. We find all the fullerenes exhibit similar elastic behavior even if the minimum radii of clusters in the direction of compression are reduced to 1/3 or 1/2 that of the free clusters. Both the potential energy of the system and restoring pressure on the graphite planes as functions of the axial strain are found to be reversible. This is a result of the reversible structure change. The fullerene is deformed severely into a disc-like structure due to compression. The deformation is almost saturated. In the process of decompression the free-fluerene structure is returned, and the cage rotated slightly between graphite sheets. To compare the elasticity of different fullerenes, the second order derivative of strain energy to strain is approximately calculated as a Young's modulus. The modulus becomes larger with increasing fullerene size.
The Order of Phase Transition of Solvable DNA Melting Models
Authors: Nyeo Su-Long , Yang I-Ching
Published: September 2003

The phase transition of DNA molecules is studied in an exactly solvable formalism with the Morse and Deng–Fan potentials for the interstrand hydrogen bonds of nucleotide base pairs. It is shown that although the two potentials have different short-range behaviors, the thermodynamic quantities of the DNA system in these potentials enjoy the same scaling laws with the associated critical exponents, which are explicitly calculated. These exactly solvable DNA models are shown to exhibit a phase transition of the second order and the results of the analysis agree with previous studies.
Rational Versus Soft Management in Complex Software: Lessons from Flight Simulation
Authors: Hobday Mike , Brady Tim
Published: September 2003

This paper compares actual (A-type) software processes at work in flight simulation, one example of a software-intensive complex product system, with ideal, rational (B-type) processes as contained in company manuals, tools and procedures. The aim is to identify the causes and consequences of divergencies between A- and B-type processes in a complex product, and to draw implications for theory and practice. The paper also develops a simple partial model to show what A-type processes actually "look like" in practice. The evidence indicates that in response to industrial turbulence, uncertainty, technical complexity and difficulties in capturing user requirements, software engineers and project managers fall back heavily on A-type informal systems and "soft" management becomes essential to project success. Success under such circumstances, B-type rational systems are inadequate to the task at hand and soft factors such as goodwill, negotiation skills, rule breaking and informal communications become essential to project success. These findings contrast with most approaches to software engineering which try to impose highly rational processes and tend to ignore soft issues. The paper also indicates potential benefits of the rational approach, sometimes overlooked by contemporary organisational scholars, by arguing that it is the manner in which B-type processes are developed and implemented which leads to divergencies and difficulties, rather than the processes themselves which are an essential part of orderly progress. While the findings may not be relevant to more simple products and tasks, other complex product systems may well face similar divergencies and project management challenges.
Changing Patterns of Technological Leadership: Evidence from the Pharma Ceutical Industry
Authors: Cantwell John , Bachmann Astrid
Published: September 2003

This paper examines the changing composition of technological opportunities and corporate leadership that affected the major British and German pharmaceutical companies from 1930 to 1990. It draws on both the theory of technological change and Schumpeter's theory of profits and growth. Evidence is derived from US patent statistics for 15 indigenous British and German pharmaceutical companies in 47 technological activities. The findings suggest that shifts in both technological leadership and opportunities tend to be gradual rather than radical. The diffusion of technology reduces, but does not fully erode, firm-specific capabilities. However, well-established leaders risk becoming locked into declining technologies. Nevertheless, the composition of leadership in the pharmaceutical industry often persists for several decades. More recent changes, though, suggest that the once dominant group of leaders is on the verge of being replaced by a different group, to the extent that the shifting cycle reflects a changing technological paradigm.
Scientists and Their Attitudes to Industry Links
Authors: Butler Sean , Birley Sue
Published: September 2003

This paper examines the attitudes of scientists in four research institutes within the UK Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council towards links with industry. Interviews were conducted with scientists who ranged in their level of industrial contact from none at all to a high level of activity. They were classified into five groups by their attitudes and labelled as Enthusiastic, Interested, Prepared to be Supported, Disinterested and Academic High Ground. These attitudes are related to the level of activity. As expected, there was a relationship between attitude and level of activity. The first two groups had a high level of links, and the second two few. Those taking the Academic High Ground often had very good contacts with industry, despite their clear view of their academic and scientific roles.
Collaborative Research and Development: New Insights from Cyclic Models of the Innovation Process
Authors: Steen John , Hanson Dallas , Liesch Peter
Published: September 2003

Traditional linear models of innovation, in which it is assumed that government funding of R&D will axiomatically create innovative industries, have become obsolete. This paper suggests that innovation is in fact a complex and interactive process that involves cycles of learning. However, these "knowledge cycle" models of innovation are largely unvalidated empirically and further research will be required to extend the current theory. Knowledge cycle models appear to be superior to the linear models for a number of reasons. These include major roles for tacit (uncodified) knowledge as well as explicit (codified) knowledge, which are largely ignored in linear innovation models. An emphasis upon iterative collaboration between firms and researchers and the importance of firms participating more directly in the research and development (R&D) process may enhance the utilisation of these forms of knowledge.
"Swimming Around in Their Own Ponds": The Weakness of Strong Ties in Developing Innovative Practices
Authors: Fletcher Denise
Published: September 2003

This paper identifies how strong ties that have been nurtured and institutionalised over a number of years can be more inhibitive in generating innovation processes in organisations than in mobilising them. Close attention is given to sentiment and friendship relations within a small family firm to highlight how these ties are mobilised to obstruct innovative practices. A network approach is adopted to identify how individuals within the company attribute value and meaning to the different interactions they have with colleagues in the company. It is proposed that this view of organisational networks provides valuable insights into the nurture and embedment of workplace values and explains why, in some companies, there are difficulties in adopting innovative practices.
Missing the Bus: A Socio-Cognitive Perspective on Technological Networks
Authors: Meijer Ariane von Raesfeld
Published: September 2003

This paper proposes a socio-cognitive model of technological co-operation which links substantive interactions in a technological co-operation project with an analysis of group processes. Substantive interactions are concerned with the development of business relationships and the transformation and transaction of resources and goods. Social interactions are concerned with the development of group integration through the creation and maintenance of shared understanding and communication among participating individuals. Insight into these interactions will improve our understanding of the process of technological co-operation and provide input into the management of this process. Therefore, a unique method is proposed. It consists of an analysis at the level of the project and at the level of communicating participants. This approach is applied to a study of a collaborative project in the Dutch construction industry.
The Construction of a Network Technology: Electronic Livestock Auction Markets
Authors: Graham Ian
Published: September 2003

This paper uses Callon's actor network theory (ANT) to analyse the emergence of an inter-organisational network innovation: electronic livestock auction systems in the United Kingdom. It is based on a study of the development of these systems by drawing on interviews with developers, operators and users of the competing systems and focusing on the social networks that evolved in their conception and adoption. The validity of ANT as a framework for the analysis of innovation is critically considered. The paper concludes that complexity and barriers to network building led the networks to be constructed from existing components and social linkages, thereby limiting the potential of the innovation to incorporate radical change in the social structure.