cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Study of the Role of Regionalization in the Generation of Aggregation Error in Regional Input –Output Models

Although the need for aggregation in input –output modelling has diminished with the increases in computing power, an alarming number of regional studies continue to use the procedure. The rationales for doing so typically are grounded in data problems at the regional level. As a result many regional analysts use aggregated national input –output models and trade –adjust them at this aggregated level. In this paper, we point out why this approach can be inappropriate. We do so by noting that it creates a possible source of model misapplication (i.e., a direct effect could appear for a sector where one does not exist) and also by finding that a large amount of error (on the order of 100 percent) can be induced into the impact results as a result of improper aggregation. In simulations, we find that average aggregation error tends to peak at 81 sectors after rising from 492 to 365 sectors. Perversely, error then diminishes somewhat as the model size decreases further to 11 and 6 sectors. We also find that while region – and sector –specific attributes influence aggregation error in a statistically significantly manner, their influence on the amount of error generally does not appear to be large.
Outlier Robust ICP for Minimizing Fractional RMSD

We describe a variation of the iterative closest point (ICP) algorithm for aligning two point sets under a set of transformations. Our algorithm is superior to previous algorithms because (1) in determining the optimal alignment, it identifies and discards likely outliers in a statistically robust manner, and (2) it is guaranteed to converge to a locally optimal solution. To this end, we formalize a new distance measure, fractional root mean squared distance (FRMSD), which incorporates the fraction of inliers into the distance function. Our framework can easily incorporate most techniques and heuristics from modern registration algorithms. We experimentally validate our algorithm against previous techniques on 2 and 3 dimensional data exposed to a variety of outlier types.
Empirical Verification of the Fe II Oscillator Strengths in the FUSE Bandpass

We report empirical determinations of atomic oscillator strengths, or f-values, for 11 ground-state transitions of Fe II in the wavelength range We use ultraviolet absorption-line obser- 1050 ( j ( 1150 Ae . vations of interstellar material toward stars in the Galaxy and the Magellanic Clouds taken with Coper- nicus, the Goddard High Resolution Spectrograph on board the Hubble Space Telescope, and the Far-Ultraviolet Spectroscopic Explorer. We derive absolute oscillator strengths by a combination of the apparent optical depth, component-—tting, and curve-of-growth —tting techniques. Our derived oscillator strengths are generally in excellent agreement with recent theoretical calculations by Raassen & Uylings using the orthogonal operator technique. However, we identify three of the 11 transitions studied here whose f-values seem to be incompatible with these calculations by as much as a factor of 2. We suggest revisions to these f-values based on our analysis. Subject headings: atomic dataISM: abundancesISM: atomsultraviolet: ISM
Hash-AV: fast virus signature scanning by cache-resident filters

Fast virus scanning is becoming increasingly important in today's internet. While Moore's law continues to double CPU cycle speed, virus scanning applications fail to ride on the performance wave due to their frequent random memory accesses. This paper proposes Hash-AV, a virus scanning 'booster' technique that aims to take advantage of improvements in CPU performance. Using a set of hash functions and a Bloom filter array that fits in CPU second-level (L2) caches, Hash-AV determines the majority of 'no-match' cases without accesses to main memory. Experiments show that Hash-AV improves the performance of the open-source virus scanner Clam-AV by a factor of 2 10. The key to Hash-AV's success lies in a set of 'bad but cheap' hash functions that are used as initial hashes. The speed of Hash-AV makes it well suited for 'on-access' virus scanning, providing greater protections to the user. Through intercepting system calls and wrapping glibc libraries, we have implemented an 'on-access' version for Hash-AV+Clam-AV. The on-access scanner can examine input data at a throughput of over 200 Mb/s, making it suitable for network-based virus scanning.
Recent Results in String Duality

This is a talk given at YKIS '95, primarily to non-string theorists. I review the evidence for string duality, the principle that any string theory at strong coupling looks like another string theory at weak coupling. A postscript summarizes developments since the conference.
Is gravitational mass of a composite quantum body equivalent to its energy

We define passive gravitational mass operator of a hydrogen atom in the post-Newtonian approximation of general relativity and show that it does not commute with energy operator, taken in the absence of gravitational field. Nevertheless, the equivalence between the expectation values of passive gravitational mass and energy is shown to survive for stationary quantum states. Inequivalence between passive gravitational mass and energy at a macroscopic level results in time dependent oscillations of the expectation values of passive gravitational mass for superpositions of stationary quantum states, where the equivalence restores after averaging over time. Inequivalence between gravitational mass and energy at a microscopic level reveals itself as unusual electromagnetic radiation, emitted by the atoms, supported and moved in the Earth gravitational field with constant velocity using spacecraft or satellite, which can be experimentally measured.
Long-term results of multivalve surgery for infective multivalve endocarditis

Objective: The natural history of medically treated multivalvular endocarditis is associated with dismal short and long term survival. However, the impact of surgical intervention on these results is relatively unknown. The objective of this retrospective study was to report our long-term results in patients requiring multivalve surgery for multivalvular endocarditis. Methods and results: Over a 24 year period beginning in 1972, multivalve surgical procedures were performed on 63 patients for infective endocarditis. Prosthetic valve endocarditis was present in 25 (40%), and acute or active endocarditis in 38 (60%). The early mortality was 16%. Out of 53 patients discharged from the hospital 87 ^ 4% were alive at 5 years and 64 ^ 9% at 10 years. There was no difference in early or late mortality between patients with prosthetic and native endocarditis (P ¼ 0:15 and P ¼ 0:77 for early and late mortality, respectively). The presence of active endocarditis did not affect operative outcome or late mortality. Twenty-one patients (88%) were in NYHA FC I, and none were in NYHA FC IV. The only prognostic factor of early and late mortality was the presence of an abscess at the time of the surgery. Conclusions: These results indicate that multivalve infective endocarditis treated surgically is associated with acceptable early and late mortality and excellent postoperative functional status. The early surgical intervention prior to an abscess formation offers the best chance for survival of patients with multivalve endocarditis. q 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
Observations of magnetospheric ionization enhancements using upper hybrid resonance noise band data from the RAE 1 satellite

Noise bands associated with the upper-hybrid resonance were used to provide direct evidence for the existence of regions of enhanced density in the equatorial magnetosphere near L = 2. Density enhancements ranging from several percent to as high as 45 percent are observed with radial dimensions of several hundred kilometers. The enhancement characteristics strongly suggest their identification as magnetospheric whistler ducts.
A two-dimensional cationic lattice built from [Zn6(HPO4)2(PO4)2]2+ clusters

A unique cationic zinc phosphate cluster linked by neutral bifunctional rigid ligands to form a two dimensional framework was synthesized and structurally characterized.
A spectrally efficient narrowband mobile radio system for voice and data communication

The author proposes a narrowband integrated voice/data mobile radio system which triples current voice traffic capacity and simultaneously provides capacity for mobile data communications such as mobile data terminals, automatic vehicle location, and mobile facsimile by utilizing the silence gaps inherent in speech. The system is designed to fit within the narrowband 25-kHz channels in the 450- and 800-MHz frequency bands and can replace existing private land mobile radio systems with minimum impact. The centerpiece of the system design is an evolutionary switching technique known as packetized data, voice dedicated (PDVD) burst switching, which allows transmission of data within the silence gaps inherent in speech. Simulation results for various voice and data traffic loads show the flexibility and efficiency of the proposed narrowband integrated voice/data mobile radio system. >
On the definition and derivatives of macroscale energy for the description of multiphase systems

Modeling of flow and transport in environmental systems often involves formulation of conservation equations at spatial scales involving tens to hundreds of pore diameters in porous media or the depth of flow in a channel. Quantities such as density, temperature, internal energy, and velocity may not be uniform over these macroscopic length scales. The external gravitational potential causes gradients in density, pressure, and chemical potential even at equilibrium. Despite these complications, it is important to formulate the thermodynamic analysis of environmental systems at the macroscopic scale. Heretofore, this has been accomplished primarily using the approach of rational thermodynamics whereby the thermodynamic dependence of macroscale internal energy on macroscale variables is hypothesized directly without development of any systematic method for transforming microscale energy dependence from the microscale to the macroscale. However when thermodynamic variables are inhomogeneous at the microscale, the functional dependence of macroscale internal energy on macroscale variables is not a simple extension of the microscale case. In the present work, the relation between the definitions of microscale and macroscale intensive thermodynamic variables is established. Expressions for the material derivatives of macroscale internal energy of phases, interfaces, and common lines are derived from and consistent with their microscopic counterparts by integrating to the macroscale. The forms obtained and the consistency required will be important for use in analyses of systems at scales where microscopic heterogeneities cannot be neglected.
Probing the Synthesis of Two‐Dimensional Boron by First‐Principles Computations

Boron synthesis, in theory: Although two-dimensional boron sheets have attracted considerable interest because of their theoretically predicted properties, synthesis of such sheets remains a challenge. The feasibility of different synthetic methods for two-dimensional boron sheets was assessed using first-principles calculations, possibly paving the way towards its application in nanoelectronics.
The IBM Hypertape system

The IBM Hypertape system was designed as a high-speed I/O device for the IBM 7074-7080-7090-7094 computers. It is composed of a two-channel control unit, the IBM 7640 (Figure 1), and IBM 7340 tape drives (Figure 2). Ten 7340s can be attached to each 7640 channel.
On the scaling limits of low-frequency noise in SiGe HBTs

Abstract The low-frequency noise in high-speed transistors generally increases (degrades) as device technologies down-scale for higher performance. Interestingly, the latest generation of deep-submicron SiGe HBTs breaks this trend, and we find record-low noise corner frequencies of 220 Hz in SiGe HBTs with a peak f T of 210 GHz. An explanation for this behavior based on a reduction of the number of dominant noisy traps is offered, and microscopic 2-D simulations of noise are used to support this claim and explore the origins and scaling limits of low-frequency noise in advanced SiGe HBTs.
Biochemical transport modeling, estimation and detection in realistic environments

Simulation, detection and estimation of the spread of a biochemical substance are key elements in environmental monitoring. Solving these problems are important for efficient decontamination purposes and prediction of the cloud evolution.We present a set of tools describing the measurements of an array of biochemical sensors through a physical dispersion model, which is amenable to statistical analysis. We first approximate the dispersion model of a contaminant in a realistic environment (for instance urban) through numerical simulations of reflected stochastic diffusions describing the microscopic transport phenomena due to wind and chemical diffusion using the Feynmann-Kac formula. Second, we propose a Bayesian framework based on a random field for localizing multiple dispersive sources with small amounts of measurements. Third, we present a sequential detector allowing on-line analysis and detecting whether a change has occurred, based on realistic numerical simulation. Numerical examples illustrate our results for a dispersion among buildings.
Surface plasmon rainbow jets

A new method for optically exciting and visualizing surface plasmons in thin metal films is described. The technique relies on the use of a high-numerical-aperture objective lens to locally launch a broad wavelength spectrum of surface waves and to detect the leaky radiative modes associated with them. We used this approach to obtain a direct visualization of the plasmon intensity distributions, e.g., rainbow jets, and to quantify their propagation lengths throughout the visible spectrum.
Ultrafast Time‐Resolved Transient Structures of Solids and Liquids by Means of Extended X‐ray Absorption Fine Structure

Detection of ultrafast transient structures and the evolution of ultrafast structural intermediates during the course of reactions has been a long standing goal of chemists and biologists. This article will be restricted to nanosecond, picosecond and shorter time-resolved extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) studies, its aim being to present the progress and problems encounter in measurements and understanding the structure of transients. The recent advances in source technology has stimulated a wide variety of novel experiments using both synchrotrons and smaller laboratory size systems. With more efficient X-ray lenses and detectors many of the previously difficult experiments to perform, because of the exposure time required and weak signals, will now be easily performed. The experimental system for the detection of ultrafast time-resolved EXAFS spectra of molecules in liquids is described and the method for the analysis of EXAFS spectra to yield transient structures is given. We believe that utilizing our table-top ultrafast X-ray source and the polycapillary optics in conjunction with dispersive spectrometer and charge coupled devices (CCD) we will be able to determine the structure of many reaction intermediates and excited states of chemical and biological molecules in solid and liquid state.
Molecular simulation study of self-assembly of tethered V-shaped nanoparticles

We use Brownian dynamics to investigate the self-assembly of single end tethered, laterally tethered, and double end tethered V-shaped nanoparticles. The simulation results are compared with model bent-core molecules without tethers and polymer tethered nanorods to elucidate the combined effects of V-shaped geometry and the immiscibility between the V-shaped nanoparticles and the tethers on the self-assembled structures. We show that the V-shaped geometry significantly alters the phase diagram of tethered nanoparticles and further that the immiscibility between particles and tethers leads to structures not previously predicted for bent-core molecules. Examples of mesophases predicted include honeycomb, hexagonally packed cylinders, and perforated lamellar phases.
Dimensionality Reduction for k-Means Clustering and Low Rank Approximation

We show how to approximate a data matrix A with a much smaller sketch ~A that can be used to solve a general class of constrained k-rank approximation problems to within (1+e) error. Importantly, this class includes k-means clustering and unconstrained low rank approximation (i.e. principal component analysis). By reducing data points to just O(k) dimensions, we generically accelerate any exact, approximate, or heuristic algorithm for these ubiquitous problems. For k-means dimensionality reduction, we provide (1+e) relative error results for many common sketching techniques, including random row projection, column selection, and approximate SVD. For approximate principal component analysis, we give a simple alternative to known algorithms that has applications in the streaming setting. Additionally, we extend recent work on column-based matrix reconstruction, giving column subsets that not only 'cover' a good subspace for A}, but can be used directly to compute this subspace.Finally, for k-means clustering, we show how to achieve a (9+e) approximation by Johnson-Lindenstrauss projecting data to just O(log k/e2) dimensions. This is the first result that leverages the specific structure of k-means to achieve dimension independent of input size and sublinear in k.
SPIDERWEB MASKS FOR HIGH-CONTRAST IMAGING

Motivated by the desire to image exosolar planets, recent work by us and others has shown that high-contrast imaging can be achieved using specially shaped pupil masks. To date, the masks we have designed have been symmetric with respect to a Cartesian coordinate system but were not rotationally invariant, thus requiring that one take multiple images at different angles of rotation about the central point in order to obtain high contrast in all directions. In this paper we present a new class of masks that have rotational symmetry and provide high contrast in all directions with just one image. These masks provide the required 10-10 level of contrast to within 4λ/D, and in some cases 3λ/D, of the central point, which is deemed necessary for exosolar planet finding/imaging. They are also well suited for use on ground-based telescopes, and perhaps the James Webb Space Telescope too, since they can accommodate central obstructions and associated support spiders.
Restless legs syndrome

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is clinically defined by the presence of (i) an urge to move the legs with or without an actual paraesthesia; (ii) a worsening of symptoms with inactivity; (iii) improvement with activity; and (iv) a worsening of symptoms in the evening and at night. Patients may use a variety of semantic phrases to describe their symptoms but all must have an urge to move. Most people with RLS also have periodic limb movements during sleep, although this is not part of the clinical diagnostic criteria. RLS is very common. About 10% of all Caucasian populations have RLS, although it may be mild in the majority of cases. Women generally outnumber men by about 2: 1. As a general rule, RLS severity worsens through the first seven to eight decades of life, but may actually lessen in old age. The aetiology of RLS is only partly understood. There is a strong genetic component, and several genetic linkages and three causative genes have been identified worldwide. Several medical conditions, including renal failure, systemic iron deficiency and pregnancy, and possibly neuropathy, essential tremor and some genetic ataxias, are also associated with high rates of RLS. In all cases to date, the actual CNS pathology of RLS demonstrates reduced iron stores, in a pattern that suggests that the homeostatic control of iron is altered, not just that there is not enough iron entering the brain. The relationship between reduced CNS iron levels and the clinical phenotype or treatment response to dopaminergics is not known but generates promising speculation. Treatment of RLS is usually rewarding. Most patients respond robustly to dopamine receptor agonists. Over time, response may lessen, or the patients may develop ‘augmentation’, whereby they have a worsening of symptoms, usually in the form of an earlier onset. Other treatment options include gabapentin, or similar antiepileptic drugs, and opioids. High-dose intravenous iron is a promising but still experimental approach.
Auditor changes and discretionary accruals

Abstract In a sample of auditor change firms we find that discretionary accruals are income decreasing during the last year with the predecessor auditor and generally insignificant during the first year with the successor. In addition, the income decreasing discretionary accruals are concentrated among firms expected to have greater litigation risk. These findings are consistent with litigation risk concerns providing incentives for auditors to prefer conservative accounting choices, and with managers dismissing incumbent auditors in the hope of finding a more reasonable successor. However, we cannot rule out financial distress as a potential alternative explanation for our results.
Exclusive Dealing and Its Effects: The Impact of Large Music Festivals on Local Music Venues

This paper examines how local music venues are affected by exclusive contracts used by four of the United States’ most prominent music festivals. By utilizing a unique industry and multi-year dataset, as well as variation in the use of exclusive dealing across the country determined by the location of large music festivals, this paper adds to the paucity of empirical analysis of exclusive dealing and provides new insight into an ignored sector of the music industry. Results show that exclusive contracts correlate with a decrease in the number of venues in affected cities by 7–28 % when compared to those unaffected cities, with smaller cities being disproportionately affected.
Possible existence of an extraordinary phase in the driven lattice gas

Abstract We report recent simulation results which might indicate the existence of a new low-temperature “phase” in an Ising lattice gas, driven into a non-equilibrium steady state by an external field. It appears that this “phase”, characterized by multiple-strip configurations, is selected when square systems are used to approach the thermodynamic limit. We propose a quantitative criterion for the existence of such a “phase”. If confirmed, its observation may resolve a long-standing controversy over the critical properties of the driven Ising lattice gas.
The approach to collapse of molecular clouds

The dense molecular cloud cores that form stars, like other self-gravitating objects, undergo bulk oscillations. Just at the point of gravitational instability, their fundamental oscillation mode has zero frequency. We study, using perturbation theory, the evolution of a spherical cloud that possesses such a frozen mode. We find that the cloud undergoes a prolonged epoch of subsonic, accelerating contraction. This slow contraction occurs whether the cloud is initially inflated or compressed by the oscillation. The subsonic motion described here could underlie the spectral infall signature observed in many starless dense cores.
Influence of microphysics on the scaling of precipitation extremes with temperature

Simulations of radiative-convective equilibrium with a cloud-system resolving model are used to investigate the scaling of high percentiles of the precipitation distribution (precipitation extremes) over a wide range of surface temperatures. At surface temperatures above roughly 295 K, precipitation extremes increase with warming in proportion to the increase in surface moisture, following what is termed Clausius-Clapeyron (CC) scaling. At lower temperatures, the rate of increase of precipitation extremes depends on the choice of cloud and precipitation microphysics scheme and the accumulation period, and it differs markedly from CC scaling in some cases. Precipitation extremes are found to be sensitive to the fall speeds of hydrometeors, and this partly explains the different scaling results obtained with different microphysics schemes. The results suggest that microphysics play an important role in determining the response of convective precipitation extremes to warming, particularly when ice- and mixed-phase processes are important.
Selenium-catalyzed halolactonization: nucleophilic activation of electrophilic halogenating reagents.

Diphenyl diselenide catalyzes the halolactonization of unsaturated acids with N-halosuccinimides under mild conditions. The diselenide not only accelerates the reactions, but in some cases affords regiocontrol in favor of γ-lactone products. Experiments show that the regioselectivity in favor of γ-lactones is a result of kinetic rather than thermodynamic control.
Strain Rate Effects in the Mechanical Response of Polymer-Anchored Carbon Nanotube Foams

Strain rate effects on the mechanical properties of carbon nanotube forests are studied, and several related interesting new phenomena are reported. Dense vertically aligned foam-like forests of carbon nanotubes are anchored on a thin, flexible polymer layer to provide structural stability, particularly at the higher strain rates. Permanent deformation and for the first time the delamination and crumbling of carbon nanotube walls is observed.
Phase Relations and Dielectric Properties in the Bi2O3–ZnO–Ta2O5 System

Dielectric properties and phase formation of Bi-based pyrochlore ceramics were evaluated for the Bi2O3–ZnO–Ta2O5 system. The compositional range rBi2(Zn1/3Ta2/3)2O7· (1−r)(Bi3/2Zn1/2)(Zn1/2Ta3/2)O7 (0 ≤r≤ 1) in Bi2O3–ZnO–Ta2O5 was investigated to determine the relative solubility of BZT cubic (α-BZT, r= 0) and the pseudo-orthorhombic (β-BZT, r= 1) end members. It was found that extrinsic factors, such as kinetically limited phase formation and bismuth loss, contribute to apparent phase boundaries in addition to thermodynamic stability of each phase. Considering this, the locations of true phase boundaries were r < 0.30 and r≥ 0.74 for α and β phases, respectively. Dielectric constants between 58 and 80 and low dielectric loss (tan δ < 0.003) were measured for the complete compositional range. The temperature coefficient of capacitance was controlled by composition, which was found to be <30 ppm/°C at the edge of β-phase solid solution. In addition to the excellent dielectric properties these materials can be sintered at low temperatures, which make Bi-based pyrochlores promising candidates for high-frequency electronic applications.
Image-Predicated Sorting of Adherent Cells Using Photopatterned Hydrogels

Images of cells convey a wealth of information. Researchers routinely use ubiquitous light microscopes to obtain information about cell structure,[1] shape and motility,[2] cell-cell interactions,[3] and protein expression with spatio-temporal resolution.[4] Cell fate prediction using image-based phenotyping is applied to a wide range of cell types, including stem cells. [5, 6] The ability to sort cells following such imaging could offer a number of advantages, such as allowing the direct utilization of cells prospectively identified by imaged phenotypes,[5] and allowing investigation into heterogeneity[7] observed via imaging by applying bulk assays to specific cell subpopulations. When developing cell lines, the most visually promising post-transformation clones could be enriched prior to the protracted efforts of dilution cloning. Pooled, barcoded genetic screens, typically limited to phenotypes that can be sorted via fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS)[8] or that alter proliferation,[9] could be expanded to all phenotypes recognizable through microscopy. Unfortunately, facile methods to isolate cells based upon that rich, image-derived information are lacking. FACS offers high throughput,[10] but as it does not image cells, it lacks sub-cellular and single-cell temporal resolution, and loses most morphological information because cells are analyzed in suspension. Sorting can be added to microscopy, via live-cell adaptations of laser capture microdissection,[11] laser-based killing of undesired cells,[12] or clone picking following imaging. However, these platforms are all prohibitively expensive for individual labs and/or have specific limitations (proprietary culture films,[11] semi-solid media), and thus have not been widely adopted. Here we present a user-friendly, inexpensive method utilizing photopatternable hydrogels to sort cells following imaging. Termed Polymerization-Activated Cell Sorting (PACS), the method utilizes commercially available reagents and hardware found in most biology labs to create an in-lab photolithography system with rapidly reconfigurable photomasking that enables quick sorting of cells following imaging.
Parameterized complexity in multiple-interval graphs: Domination, partition, separation, irredundancy

We show that the problem k-dominating set and its several variants including k-connected dominating set, k-independent dominating set, and k-dominating clique, when parameterized by the solution size k, are W[1]-hard in either multiple-interval graphs or their complements or both. On the other hand, we show that these problems belong to W[1] when restricted to multiple-interval graphs and their complements. This answers an open question of Fellows et al. In sharp contrast, we show that d-distance k-dominating set for d>=2 is W[2]-complete in multiple-interval graphs and their complements. We also show that k-perfect code and d-distance k-perfect code for d>=2 are W[1]-complete even in unit 2-track interval graphs. In addition, we present various new results on the parameterized complexities of k-vertex clique partition and k-separating vertices in multiple-interval graphs and their complements, and present a very simple alternative proof of the W[1]-hardness of k-irredundant set in general graphs.
Target Director Turnover in Acquisitions: A Conceptual Framework

Manuscript Type: Conceptual Research Question/Issue: Post-acquisition director turnover is a complex and multi-faceted phenomenon that needs to be examined beyond the agency lens. In this article, we examine the likelihood of non-executive director turnover in target firms following an acquisition. Research Findings/Result: Acquisitions present an interesting case where conflict of interests may arise between shareholders and directors. This study proposes that the likelihood of target non-executive director turnover depends on the factors that determine the performance of directors in their monitoring, advisory and social roles pre-acquisition and during the acquisition process. Theoretical Implications: While there are multiple studies examining the likelihood of turnover of executive directors (TMTs) following an acquisition, there is no systematic conceptual research explaining the likelihood of turnover of non-executive directors. We draw on three theoretical perspectives–agency theory, resource-based view and the social capital perspective to comprehensively investigate target non-executive director turnover post-acquisition. We further clarify the boundaries of these theoretical arguments concerning their implications for target non-executive director turnover. Practical Implications: One of the most important tasks for the newly formed firm post-acquisition is to build the new leadership team, including a new board. In view of the important roles directors take on in modern corporations, it is critical to understand how the new board should be constituted and what members of the target firm are more likely to join that new board.
Dynamic filtration of invert-emulsion muds

Dynamic-filtration experiments conducted on oil-based muds show that the dynamic-filtration rate is much higher than API filtration rates. The use of water-wet solids results in very poor-quality external mudcakes and high fluid-loss rates. Better external mudcakes are formed by mixing equal parts organophilic clay and mud. Filtration-loss-control additives (asphalt mineral pitches) do not reduce the equilibrium filtration rate, but do reduce spurt loss and limit solids invasion. In brine-saturated rocks, the invasion rate for oil-based muds is significantly smaller than for water-based muds because capillary pressure prevents the oil phase from entering the core in oil-based muds. Oil-based mudcakes are softer and more shear-sensitive than water-based mudcakes. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) photomicrographs indicate that oil-based mudcakes consist of individual water droplets coated with clay particles. This cake structure gives rise to the low permeability and shear sensitivity of oil-based muds.
Oscillatory Combustion of Monopropellant Droplets

A theoretical study of combustion response to imposed pressure oscillations was conducted for monopropellant droplets and sprays. A first-order perturbation analysis was used, yielding the linear response. Transient gas-phase phenomena were considered in some cases, but the bulk of the calculations assume a quasisteady gas phase. The calculations employed properties representative of hydrazine decomposition. Calculated steady combustion results and response predictions for large hydrazine droplets agreed favorably with earlier measurements. Droplet and spray response factors in excess of unity were found. High response was associated with high pressures (1000-10,000 kN/m2), large droplets, large mean liquid temperature gradients, and frequencies near the characteristic frequency of the liquid-phase thermal wave. Spray response factors are lower than the response factor of the largest injected drop; however, a small percentage of large drops can still provide substantial response for the combustion process.
The Nonlinear Behavior of Heavy-Duty Truck Combinations With Respect to Straightline Stability

A comparison of the nonlinear stability behavior of the steady state straight line motion of truck combinations with and without a second trailer is shown. These investigations have been done by applying bifurcation theory. Particular emphasis is given to the influence of the frictional coupling between tire and road on the nonlinear stability of these vehicles
Is Faster‐Than‐Light Communication Possible?

It is shown here using elementary quantum mechanics that a method exists for transmitting signals faster than the speed of light. The method relies on measurement of the uncertainty of momentum for one photon of each pair. The uncertainty is affected by whether momentum or position is measured for the partners, due to Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle. For each pair the effect is instantaneous; so if the measurement of momentum uncertainty, done on one end, is distant from the momentum/position measurement switching done on the other end, then such behavior can be utilized for faster‐than‐light signaling.
Titan's Methane Weather

Conditions in Titan's troposphere are near the triple point of methane, the second most abundant component of its atmosphere. Our understanding of Titan's lower atmosphere has shifted considerably in the past decade. Ground-based observations, Hubble Space Telescope images, and data returned from the Cassini and Huygens spacecraft show that Titan's troposphere hosts a methane-based meteorology in direct analogy to the water-based meteorology of Earth. What once was thought to be a quiescent place, lacking in clouds or localized weather and changing only subtly on long seasonal timescales, is now understood to be a dynamic system with significant weather events regularly occurring against the backdrop of dramatic seasonal changes. Although the observational record of Titan's weather covers only a third of its 30-year seasonal cycle, Titan's atmospheric processes appear to be more closely analogous to those of Earth than to those of any other object in our solar system.
Delay Analysis of Graphene Field-Effect Transistors

In this letter, we analyze the carrier transit delay in graphene field-effect transistors (GFETs).The extraction of the intrinsic delay provides a new way to directly estimate carrier velocity from the experimental data, while the breakdown of the total delay into intrinsic, extrinsic, and parasitic components can offer valuable information for optimizing RF GFET structures.
Thin-film perovskites—Ferroelectric materials for integrated optics

Optical guided wave (OGW) devices, based on LiNbO 3 or GaAs, are commercially available products with established markets and applications. While LiNbO 3 presently dominates the commercial applications, there are several drivers for the development ofimproved electro-optic (EO) materials. If the appropriate crystal quality could be obtained for thin-film BaTiO 3 supported on MgO for example, or for an integrated BaTiO 3 /MgO structure on silicon or GaAs, then the optimum OGW device structure might be realized. We will report on our results for the growth of optical quality, epitaxial BaTiO 3 and SrTiO 3 on single-crystal MgO substrates using source shuttering molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) techniques. We will also discuss how these materials can be integrated onto silicon. Our MBE studies show that, for this important class of perovskite oxides, heteroepitaxy between the perovskites and alkaline earth oxides is dominated by interfacial electrostatics at the first atomic layers. We have been able to demonstrate that a layer-by-layer energy minimization associated with interfacial electrostatics leads to the growth of high quality thin films ofthese materials. We have fabricated waveguidesfrom these materials, and the optical clarity and loss coefficients have been characterized and found to be comparable to in-diffused wave guide structures typically represented by Ti drifted LiNbO 3 .
Demand Potential for Goat Meat in Southern States: Empirical Evidence from a Multi-State Goat Meat Consumer Survey

A survey conducted in 11 Southeastern states elicits consumers' demand and preferences for various goat meat products. The data permit examination of goat meat demand of ethnic populations and the diversity among the states surveyed. The study uses five econometric models to examine the current demand, potential demand, and demand related to season and occasions on the goat meat market. Our analysis suggests that there exist a substantial demand for goat meat and the potential increase in the demand. The findings also identify the major factors in the determination of goat meat purchasing behavior.
Comments on "Bit-interleaved coded modulation"

Caire, Taricco, and Biglieri presented a detailed analysis of bit-interleaved coded modulation (BICM), a simple and popular technique used to improve system performance, especially in the context of fading channels. They derived an upper bound to the probability of error, called the expurgated bound. In this correspondence, the proof of the expurgated bound is shown to be flawed. A new upper bound is also derived. It is not known whether the original expurgated bound is valid for the important special case of square QAM with Gray labeling, but the new bound is very close to, and slightly tighter than, the original bound for a numerical example.
TERRESTRIAL PLANET FORMATION. I. THE TRANSITION FROM OLIGARCHIC GROWTH TO CHAOTIC GROWTH

We use a hybrid, multiannulus, n-body-coagulation code to investigate the growth of kilometer-sized planetesimals at 0.4-2 AU around a solar-type star. After a short runaway growth phase, protoplanets with masses of ~1026 g and larger form throughout the grid. When (1) the mass in these oligarchs is roughly comparable to the mass in planetesimals and (2) the surface density in oligarchs exceeds 2-3 g cm-2 at 1 AU, strong dynamical interactions among oligarchs produce a high merger rate, which leads to the formation of several terrestrial planets. In disks with lower surface density, milder interactions produce several lower-mass planets. In all disks, the planet formation timescale is ~10-100 Myr, similar to estimates derived from the cratering record and radiometric data.
Fast, easy, clean chemistry by using water as a solvent and microwave heating: the Suzuki coupling as an illustration

Water is an excellent solvent for organic chemistry and microwave heating offers a very efficient way of heating reaction mixtures. In this article, by focusing on the Suzuki reaction, it is shown how these two methods, used alone or together, can impact modern synthetic chemistry, making reactions faster, easier and cleaner.
Gracoli: a graphical command line user interface

Command Line Interface (CLI) is the most popular and basic user interface to interact with computers. Despite its simplicity, it has some limitations in terms of user experience. For example, sometimes it is hard to understand and interpret the textual output of the command. In this paper we describe the limitations of command line interfaces and propose Gracoli1: A graphical command line interface that takes advantage of both text-based interface and graphical user interface to provide better user experience and perform complex tasks. We demonstrate some of the useful applications and features of Gracoli. Sometime such a hybrid system provides and combines the strengths of CLI and GUI to perform specific tasks. We explore some useful applications of Gracoli to create a new kind of user experience. Command line interface makes accessibility faster and Graphical User-Interface makes output more interactive and understandable.
Stability of periodic orbits controlled by time-delay feedback

Abstract Extended time-delay auto-synchronization (ETDAS) is a promising technique for stabilizing unstable periodic orbits in low-dimensional dynamical systems. The technique involves continuous feedback of signals delayed by multiples of the orbit's period in a manner that is especially well-suited for fast systems and optical implementation. We show how to analyze the stability of a given implementation of ETDAS without explicit integration of time-delay equations. To illustrate the method and point out some nontrivial features of ETDAS, we obtain the domain of control for a period-one orbit of the driven, damped pendulum.
Energy-efficient graphical user interface design

Mobile computers, such as cell phones and personal digital assistants (PDAs), have dramatically increased in sophistication. At the same time, the desire of consumers for portability limits batters size. As a result, many researchers have targeted hardware and software energy optimization. However, most of these techniques focus on compute-intensive applications rather than interactive applications, which are dominant in mobile computers. These systems frequently use graphical user interfaces (GUIs) to handle human-computer interaction. This paper is the first to explore how GUIs can be designed to improve system energy efficiency. We investigate how GUI design approaches should be changed to improve system. Energy efficiency and provide specific suggestions to mobile computer designers to enable them to develop more energy-efficient systems. We demonstrate that energy-efficient GUI (E/sup 2/GUI) design techniques can improve the average system energy of three benchmarks (text-viewer, personnel viewer, and calculator) by 26.9, 45.2, and 16.4 percent, respectively. Average performance is simultaneously improved by 23.7, 34.6, and 19.3 percent, respectively.
Poverty, Language, and Participation in Non-Farm Labor Markets in Rural Paraguay

Selected paper prepared for presentation at the American Agricultural Economics Association Annual Meeting, Portland, Oregon, July 23- August 1, 2007. Copyright 2007 by [authors(s)]. All rights reserved. Readers may make verbatim copies of this document for non-commercial purposes by any means, provided that this copyright notice appears on all such copies.
pB264, a small, mobilizable, temperature sensitive plasmid from Rhodococcus

Gram-positive bacteria of the genus Rhodococcus have shown an extraordinary capacity for metabolizing recalcitrant organic compounds. One hindrance to the full exploitation of Rhodococcus is the dearth of genetic tools available for strain manipulation. To address this issue, we sought to develop a plasmid-based system for genetic manipulation of a variety of Rhodococcus strains. We isolated and sequenced pB264, a 4,970 bp cryptic plasmid from Rhodococcus sp. B264-1 with features of a theta-type replication mechanism. pB264 was nearly identical to pKA22, a previously sequenced but uncharacterized cryptic plasmid. Derivatives of pB264 replicate in a diverse range of Rhodococcus species, showing that this plasmid does not bear the same host range restrictions that have been exhibited by other theta replicating plasmids. Replication or maintenance of pB264 is inhibited at 37°C, making pB264 useful as a suicide vector for genetic manipulation of Rhodococcus. A series of deletions revealed that ca. 1.3 kb from pB264 was sufficient to support replication and stable inheritance of the plasmid. This region includes two open reading frames that encode functions (RepAB) that can support replication of pB264 derivatives in trans. Rhodococcus sp. B264-1 will mobilize pB264 into other Rhodococcus species via conjugation, making it possible to genetically modify bacterial strains that are otherwise difficult to transform. The cis-acting element (oriT) required for conjugal transfer of pB264 resides within a ca. 0.7 kb region that is distinct from the regions responsible for replication. Shuttle vectors derived from pB264 will be useful for genetic studies and strain improvement in Rhodococcus, and will also be useful for studying the processes of theta replication and conjugal transfer among actinomycetes.
Higher integrality conditions, volumes and Ehrhart polynomials

Abstract A polytope is integral if all of its vertices are lattice points. The constant term of the Ehrhart polynomial of an integral polytope is known to be 1. In previous work, we showed that the coefficients of the Ehrhart polynomial of a lattice-face polytope are volumes of projections of the polytope. We generalize both results by introducing a notion of k-integral polytopes, where 0-integral is equivalent to integral. We show that the Ehrhart polynomial of a k-integral polytope P has the properties that the coefficients in degrees less than or equal to k are determined by a projection of P, and the coefficients in higher degrees are determined by slices of P. A key step of the proof is that under certain generality conditions, the volume of a polytope is equal to the sum of volumes of slices of the polytope.
The solar wind helium abundance: Variation with wind speed and the solar cycle

We investigate the helium abundance in the solar wind and variations thereof on a time scale of years. Data from the WIND-SWE experiment gathered between the end of 1994 and early 2000 are analyzed. In agreement with similar work for previous solar cycles, we find a clear dependency of the He/H ratio in the solar wind on the solar cycle. In the slow solar wind, the average He/H rises from a minimum of less than two percent around solar minimum to about 4.5% in early 2000. The solar cycle dependency is stronger the lower the speed that is used to sort the data. We observe the strongest dependency of the He/H ratio on the solar wind speed around solar minimum and it weakens as the solar activity increases. We speculate that the expansion factor of the magnetic field close to the Sun changes over the solar cycle and thereby changes the efficiency of the Coulomb drag. Inefficient Coulomb drag leads to a low helium abundance in the solar wind.