cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Linear substructure synthesis via Lyapunov stable penalty methods

Abstract Component mode synthesis theories in structural dynamics are comprised of two fundamental steps: (1) substructure order reduction and (2) synthesis of the reduced order substructure models to achieve approximate full order response. The most common criticism of component mode synthesis procedures in general is that they require heuristic decision based upon physical insight of the analyst to insure accurate results. This paper introduces a novel approach for the problem of coupling reduced order models based upon recent work by the authors in nonlinear multibody dynamics. It is attractive in its simplicity, and in the fact that some theoretical results regarding the accuracy of the coupling procedure have been derived. The method enforces constraints between substructures by approximating the constrained governing system of differential-algebraic equations by a penalty-parameterized system of ordinary differential equations. The resulting formulation has several advantages: (i) Explicit time-domain constraint violation bounds are available for the approximate full order system. (ii) Under relatively mild sufficient conditions, the approximate governing equations are guaranteed to be Lyapunov (asymptotically) stable. (iii) The approximate method is equivalent to a linear quadratic feedback control formulation to minimize the constraint work. (iv) The method retains a high degree of sparsity in the full order, approximate system. (v) The approach is simple to implement compared to many other alternative techniques of substructure coupling.
Scattering of quantized solitary waves in the cubic Schrödinger equation

The quantum mechanics for N particles interacting via a delta-function potential in one space dimension and one time dimension is known. The second- quantized description of this system has for its Euler-Lagrange equations of motion the cubic Schrodinger equation. This nonlinear differential equation supports solitary wave solutions. A quantization of these solitons reproduces the weak-coupling limit to the known quantum mechanics. The phase shift for two- body scattering and the energy of the N-body bound state is derived in this approximation. The nonlinear Schrodinger equation is contrasted with the sine- Gordon theory in respect to the ideas which the classical solutions play in the description of the quantum states.
On the Use of Random Variables in Particle Swarm Optimizations: A Comparative Study of Gaussian and Uniform Distributions

The particle swarm optimization (PSO), now widely used in the electromagnetics community, is a robust evolutionary method based on the property of swarm intelligence. This paper focuses on the random variable effect in the PSO algorithm, and two random distribution functions, namely, the uniform distribution and Gaussian distribution, are studied and compared in details. It is revealed through the statistic analysis that the Gaussian distributed random variables increase the efficiency of the PSO algorithm as compared to the widely used uniformly distributed random variables. This conclusion has been demonstrated through both a mathematical benchmark function and an antenna array optimization.
External calcium is required for activation of phospholipase C by angiotensin II in adrenal glomerulosa cells.

Previous studies have shown that external calcium (Ca2+) is required for the effects of angiotensin II (AII) on aldosterone secretion in adrenal glomerulosa zone. Using bovine adrenal glomerulosa cells prepared by collagenase dispersion, we examined whether external Ca2+ is required for the activation of phospholipase C by AII. Adrenal glomerulosa cells were exposed to Ca-EGTA buffered media to provide accurate estimates of external free Ca2+ concentrations. Phospholipase C activation was evaluated by measurement of inositol phosphates production. At 0.1 μM Ca2+ and less, sustained AII effects on inositol monophosphate (IP), inositol bisphosphate (IP2) and inositol trisphosphate (IP3) were markedly inhibited. Increasing the Ca2+ concentration to 50μkM or greater fully restored All-induced inositol phosphates production. AII-induced increases in cytosolic Ca2+ measured by Quin-2 fluorescence, were diminished at lower external Ca2+ concentrations. Treating adrenal glomerulosa cells with Chelex-100, a strong Ca2+ binding resin, blocked early activation of phospholipase C by AII. Inhibition of IP3 production was also observed when inhibitors of Ca2+ movement across the plasma membrane were used, viz., La2+, TMB-8 and nifedipine. The requirement for Ca2+ during AII-induced activation of phospholipase C may be explained, at least partly by a requirement for Ca2+ at a site between the AII receptor and Phospholipase C.
Educational Leadership and Ralph Tyler

This article addresses the traditional instructional leadership (characterized with Tylerâ€™s four questions; teachers prescribe a curriculum; learners assume a submissive role of following instructors) in comparison with the andragogical or innovative instructional leadership. As more and more scholars cast their doubt on this particular instructional mode (traditional instructional leadership), especially when compared with the innovative instructional leadership, this article seeks to draw on traditional instructional leadership that revolves around Ralph Tylerâ€™s model. In doing so, instructors and practitioners will see clearly what the traditional instructional leadership may bring to most education settings and above all, they may rely on a ready-made formula when planning curriculums, instruction, program planning, or evaluation. While traditional instructional leadership may have come under much criticism, there is much to learn from it.
Improper names: Collective pseudonyms and multiple-use names as minor processes of subjectivation

This article presents a brief genealogy and a theory of the ‘improper name’, defined as the adoption of the same pseudonym by organized collectives, affinity groups and individual authors. On the one hand, improper names provide anonymity and a medium for identification and mutual recognition to a subaltern social group. On the other hand, they enable those who do not have a voice of their own to acquire a symbolic power outside the boundaries of an institutional practice. By expressing a multiplicity of pragmatic and semiotic usages, improper names are collective assemblages of enunciation characterized by the proliferation of difference. Drawing from Deleuze and Guattari's distinction between the minor and the major mode, the article suggests that the improper should be thought of as a movement of deterritorialization of the proper. Kripke's anti-descriptivist theory of rigid designation has shown how proper names have the function of fixing a referent in all its possible universes through an initial baptism recognized by a community of speakers. Yet multiple appropriations of the same pseudonym show that proper names may also designate subjects that are not fully individuated. The article concludes by linking the notion of the improper to Gilbert Simondon's theory of subjectification as trans-individuation.
Serotonin increases the velocity of propagation and frequency of the migrating myoelectric complexes.

. The effect of serotonin on the myoelectric activity of the gastrointestinal tract was evaluated in seven opossums. Continuous intravenous administration of serotonin reduced the cycle duration of the migrating myoelectric complex and increased the velocity of propagation of the phase III. These changes were dose-dependent and were observed only with high doses of serotonin of 0·1 mg kg-1 h-1 or more. Infusion of 0·01 mg kd-1 h-1 had no effect on the motility of the gastrointestinal tract. The motility changes occurred in all segments of the gastrointestinal tract studied and were characterized by a continuous and organized increase in the velocity of propagation of the activity front (phase III) of the migrating myoelectric complex from the antrum to the terminal ileum. The cycle duration of the two migrating myoelectric complexes following administration of methysergide at 1·0 mg kg-1 was similar to the control migrating myoelectric complexes. We concluded that continuous infusion of serotonin in the opossum increases the velocity of propagation of the phase III of the migrating myoelectric complex from the antrum to the terminal ileum.
Agenesis of the Corpus Callosum Due to Defective Glial Wedge Formation in Lhx2 Mutant Mice

Establishment of the corpus callosum involves coordination between callosal projection neurons and multiple midline structures, including the glial wedge (GW) rostrally and hippocampal commissure caudally. GW defects have been associated with agenesis of the corpus callosum (ACC). Here we show that conditional Lhx2 inactivation in cortical radial glia using Emx1-Cre or Nestin-Cre drivers results in ACC. The ACC phenotype was characterized by aberrant ventrally projecting callosal axons rather than Probst bundles, and was 100% penetrant on 2 different mouse strain backgrounds. Lhx2 inactivation in postmitotic cortical neurons using Nex-Cre mice did not result in ACC, suggesting that the mutant phenotype was not autonomous to the callosal projection neurons. Instead, ACC was associated with an absent hippocampal commissure and a markedly reduced to absent GW. Expression studies demonstrated strong Lhx2 expression in the normal GW and in its radial glial progenitors, with absence of Lhx2 resulting in normal Emx1 and Sox2 expression, but premature exit from the cell cycle based on EdU-Ki67 double labeling. These studies define essential roles for Lhx2 in GW, hippocampal commissure, and corpus callosum formation, and suggest that defects in radial GW progenitors can give rise to ACC.
Monopulse-Doppler Radar Front-End Concept for Automotive Applications Based on RF MEMS Technology

A concept for a high pulse repetition frequency (HPRF) monopulse-Doppler radar front-end for long range automotive applications is presented. The design is based on an RF MEMS electronically scanned array (ESA). The front-end detects vehicles up to 150 m with a resolution of 1.5 m and estimates unambiguous relative velocity up to ±400 km/h with a resolution of 6.25 km/h. The front-end is capable of scanning ±11° degrees from boresight in azimuth. Amplitude-comparison monopulse tracking allows the radar to track vehicles with an angular deviation from the scanning angle up to ±2.5°, which is a fraction of the beamwidth. The design is optimized for 38 GHz, but is readily scalable to the 76-77 GHz band and brought into compliance with the ITU-R Recommendation M. 1452 (05/00). It is fabricated using wafer-scale monolithic tile construction. The laminate consists of a 6 inch fused silica wafer and a Rogers TMM3 substrate. The wafer contains a planar IF monopulse processor, two T/R modules and two corporate MEMS true time delay (TTD) feed networks which prevent the beam position from being distorted by beam squinting or frequency scanning along azimuth. A 16 × 8 microstrip antenna array is printed on the substrate.
Muscle Volume Changes: Relation to the Active State

The volume of a frog sartorius muscle increases during a single twitch and subsequently decreases. The magnitude of volume change is 10 -5 cm 3 per gram of muscle. The time courses of change in volume and of onset of tension vary with temperature in a similar way, which implies a relation between the volume changes and the contraction mechanism. The character of the change depends upon the initial length of the muscle: the greatest decrease accompanies an isometric twitch at reference length. Treatment of the muscle with an iodide Ringer solution prolongs the active state and the volume change. These results suggest a correlation between the volume changes and the active state.
Current Perspectives on Basal Angiosperms: Introduction

*Laboratory of Molecular Systematics, National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C. 20560, U.S.A.; †Institute of Systematic Botany, University of Zurich, Zollikerstrasse 107, 8008 Zurich, Switzerland; ‡Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, U.S.A.; §Department of Palaeobotany, Swedish Museum of Natural History, Box 50007, 10405 Stockholm, Sweden
Literature is language: An interview with Amara Lakhous

Amara Lakhous, born and raised in Algeria, has had a significant impact on the changing landscape of contemporary Italian letters and cultural production. He is the author of three novels, all of which he has written in both Arabic and Italian. His best known work is the much‐acclaimed Scontro di civilta per un ascensore a piazza Vittorio (2006)/Clash of Civilizations Over an Elevator in Piazza Vittorio (2008), now translated into numerous languages, including French, German and Dutch. Lakhous draws on his position as cultural mediator to elucidate the importance of fiction in today's contentious debates over national identities. In the following interview, he speaks about his relationship to Arabic, Berber and Italian and the place these languages occupy in the conceptualization of his works. He also discusses the craft of writing, irony, politics, his views on Italy and Algeria today, and his latest novel, published in 2010.
Implementation Evaluation of Steering Teens Safe: Engaging Parents to Deliver a New Parent-Based Teen Driving Intervention to Their Teens

Parents play a fundamental role in teaching their children safe driving skills to reduce risk of motor vehicle crashes, the leading cause of death for teens. Steering Teens Safe is a new parent-based intervention that equips parents with communication skills to talk about, demonstrate, and practice safe driving behaviors and skills with their teens. This implementation evaluation focuses on a sample of 83 parents who delivered Steering Teens Safe to their teens. One-, 2- and 3-month follow-up assessments were conducted with intervention parents to evaluate the self-reported quantity and quality of talking about, demonstrating, and practicing safe driving goals with teens; perceived success and benefit of the program; and barriers to implementation. Over 3 months of follow-up, parents discussed driving goals with their teens for a median of 101.5 minutes. The most frequently addressed topics were general safety principles, including distracted driving, driving in bad weather, wearing a seat belt, and being...
Lyn is required for normal stem cell factor–induced proliferation and chemotaxis of primary hematopoietic cells

Stem cell factor (SCF) binds to c-Kit and is an important mediator of survival, growth, and function of hematopoietic progenitor cells and mast cells. Lyn and other Src family members are activated by SCF and associate with phosphorylated tyrosine residues in the c-Kit juxtamembrane region. However, studies using c-Kit mutants incapable of directly recruiting Src family members suggest this kinase family plays a minimal role in c-Kit stimulus-response coupling mechanisms. The objective of this study was to specifically target Lyn and subsequently address its role in SCF-mediated responses of primary hematopoietic progenitor cells and mast cells. To this end, a dominant-inhibitory Lyn mutant and Lyn-deficient mice were used. Transfection of normal murine mast cells with kinase-inactive Lyn impaired SCF-induced growth. Further, SCF-induced proliferation and chemotaxis of Lyn-deficient mast cells were less than for wild-type mast cells. SCF-induced growth of progenitor cells lacking Lyn was also reduced compared with that of wild-type progenitor cells. Impairment of SCF-mediated responses of Lyn-deficient mast cells and progenitor cells did not result from reductions in surface expression of c-Kit. These studies demonstrate that Lyn is required for normal SCF-mediated responses of primary progenitors and for a differentiated lineage.
THE “OPEN COUNTRY WHOSE NAME IS PRAYER”: APOPHASIS, DECONSTRUCTION, AND CONTEMPLATIVE PRACTICE

While much has been written on the dialogue between postmodernism and the Christian apophatic tradition, there has been little focus on the role of what lies at the heart of this tradition: the practice of contemplation. By looking at contemplative authors such as Evagrius Ponticus and others, this article shows that contemplative practice, situated in a life of contemplation, relates closely to postmodernism's critique of ontotheology. Contemplative practice deconstructs the epistemologically constituted self that knows itself as knowing and God as known (to paraphrase Mary-Jane Rubenstein).
Sequential Imputations and Bayesian Missing Data Problems

Abstract For missing data problems, Tanner and Wong have described a data augmentation procedure that approximates the actual posterior distribution of the parameter vector by a mixture of complete data posteriors. Their method of constructing the complete data sets is closely related to the Gibbs sampler. Both required iterations, and, similar to the EM algorithm, convergence can be slow. We introduce in this article an alternative procedure that involves imputing the missing data sequentially and computing appropriate importance sampling weights. In many applications this new procedure works very well without the need for iterations. Sensitivity analysis, influence analysis, and updating with new data can be performed cheaply. Bayesian prediction and model selection can also be incorporated. Examples taken from a wide range of applications are used for illustration.
The reactions of hexamethyldisilylazane with cyclotriphosphazene derivates

Abstract The syntheses and spectroscopic properties of silylamino derivates of the cyclotriphosphazenes have been investigated. Successful syntheses employ reactions of hexamethyldisilylazane with hexachlorocyclotriphosphazene and some of its amido derivatives. Reactions of cyclotriphosphazenes with trimethylchlorosilane or lithium bis-trimethylsilylamide did not produce silylamino derivatives. Reaction patterns, i.r., NMR and mass spectra are discussed. The silylamino derivative is compared to the corresponding tert.-butylamine derivative.
Detection of chicken skin tumors by mutlispectral imaging

Hyperspectral and multispectral imaging techniques were used to detect chicken skin tumors. Hyperspectral images of eight tumorous chickens were taken in the spectral range of 420-850 nm. Principle component analysis was applied to select useful wavelength bands (465, 575, 705 nm) from the tumorous chicken images. A multispectral imaging system capable of simultaneously capturing three registered images was used to image 60 tumorous and 20 normal chickens. Multispectral image analysis was performed to generate ratioed images, which were then divided into regions of interest (ROT's) classified as either tumorous or normal by a veterinarian. Image features for each ROT (coefficient of variation, skewness and kurtosis) were extracted for use as inputs to fuzzy classifiers. The fuzzy classifiers were able to separate normal from tumorous skin with increasing accuracies as more features were used. In particular, use of all three features gave successful detection rates of 9 1 % and 86% for normal and tumorous tissue, respectively.
Deadline-constrained media uploading systems

This paper presents the design, implementation, and performance evaluation of a novel file uploading system. The system automatically uploads multimedia files to a centralized server given a client machine's hard deadline--the time when a client machine will exhaust its available storage space due to on-going recording of media files. If existing files have not been uploaded and removed from the client machine's hard disk by the deadlines, existing files may be overwritten or new files may not get created. Our uploading system was designed to provide a practical solution for emerging business needs. For instance, our system can be used in medical practice to gather videos generated from medical devices located in various procedure rooms for post-procedure analysis, and in law enforcement to collect video recordings from police cars during routine patrolling. Here we investigate two upload scheduling algorithms that determine which client machine should upload its file(s) first. We introduce two emergency control algorithms to handle situations when a client machine is about to exhaust its hard disk space. We evaluate the proposed algorithms via simulations and analysis. Our performance studies show that the upload scheduling algorithms and the emergency control algorithms have a significant impact on overall system performance.
Improving the Marketing Math Skills of Marketing Undergraduate Students Through a Unique Undergraduate Marketing Math Course

Although analytical and math abilities are among the skills that marketing undergraduates are expected to have, the extant literature indicates deficiencies in these areas. Against this backdrop, this paper describes a course that is part of the core requirements of undergraduate marketing majors at a major public university in the southwest United States. This highly structured course offered in both face-to-face and online formats is designed to improve the students' analytical thinking and quantitative skills. Over four years, concrete evidence was collected and analyzed to provide feedback on the assurance of learning aspects of the course, and the results are quite positive. What is most gratifying is the striking similarity of the perceptions of the face-to-face and online students. Anecdotal feedback from colleagues and former students also appear to substantiate the successful implementation of this course.
In vitro activity of the new glycopeptide decaplanin.

The activity of decaplanin, a new glycopeptide, was compared to that of vancomycin, teicoplanin and daptomycin. Decaplanin was two- to four-fold less active than vancomycin, teicoplanin and daptomycin againstStaphylococcus aureus andStaphylococcus epidermidis, with an MIC90 of 2 µg/ml for methicillin-susceptible and 4 µg/ml for methicillin-resistant isolates. Decaplanin had activity similar to that of vancomycin againstStreptococcus pyogenes, Streptococcus agalactiae, group C and G streptococci, with an MIC90 of 0.12 µg/ml. It was less active than the other agents against the viridans group streptococci (MIC90 4 µg/ml). The activity of decaplanin against enterococci (MIC90 4 µg/ml) was similar to that of vancomycin.Clostridium spp. were inhibited by 0.5 µg/ml, peptostreptococci and peptococci by 0.25 µg/ml. Decaplanin was active from pH 5.5 to 7.5. Inoculum size had a minimal effect on MICs, and increased concentrations of Ca2+ and Mg2+ and 50 % serum did not alter MICs or MBCs.
The Residential Process and the Ecological Concentration of Race, Poverty and Violent Crime in New York City

Abstract Drawing on Sampson and Wilson's (1995) theory of urban inequality and related research, I test the hypothesis that the relationship between race and neighborhood exposure to violent crime reflects a residential process in which African Americans are at a substantial disadvantage. Using 1990 crime and census data for New York City, individual-level regression models show sharp racial/ethnic disparities in residential exposure to violent crime, regardless of individual characteristics. Expanded models including contextual variables show that these disparities are explained by the concentration of minorities in poor, minority neighborhoods, with correspondingly higher rates of violence. Findings thus lend substantial support for a community-level, contextual interpretation of racial differences in exposure to violent crime.
Teleconferencing: Applications for business

Abstract This article provides a basic understanding of the types, uses, advantages, human factors to be considered, and problems and limitations of business teleconferencing. The article concludes with a consideration of strategies for effectively implementing teleconferencing systems. If projections for growth in this industry are any indication of its potential, teleconferencing may become a very important business communication tool.
Effect of Nerve Growth Factor on Synaptic Depression After Axotomy

INTERRUPTION of the axon of a mammalian nerve cell leads to severe depression of synaptic transmission to the affected neurone within a few days, due primarily to loss of synaptic contacts1–4. In the superior cervical ganglion of the guinea pig, recovery of synaptic contacts on many neurones occurs if axon regeneration is allowed, but generally does not take place after axon ligation4. Furthermore, application of colchicine to postganglionic nerves causes synaptic loss in the absence of mechanical axon interruption5 (see also ref. 6). These findings indicate that axonal extension to the periphery in some way provides the parent neurone with a ‘trophic’ signal which is instrumental in maintaining preganglionic synaptic contacts. In the sympathetic nervous system the protein nerve growth factor (NGF) has a number of effects on the metabolism and morphology of developing neurones whose survival is ultimately dependent on the presence of this agent7. One mechanism by which NGF affects neurones is an interaction with specific surface receptors on cell bodies8. More recent experiments have supported the suggestion9 that NGF may also act as a messenger from the effector organ to innervating sympathetic neurones: NGF is selectively taken up by sympathetic endings10, can be retrogradely transported to the neuronal somata10,11, and has been shown to prevent some of the biochemical changes that follow axotomy in young animals12,13. Thus a natural question to ask is whether NGF might be involved in the regulation of synapses on mature ganglion cells. We report here that exogenous NGF can, to a large extent, prevent the synaptic depression seen in adult sympathetic ganglion cells after interruption of their axons.
Community College Governance, Funding, and Accountability: A Century of Issues and Trends.

Community colleges in America are now very visible and highly respected institutions of higher education. More than 1,000 community colleges in all 50 states now comprise nearly 25% of all colleges and universities in the U.S., with over 6.5 million students, or about 45% of all college students. State and local governance and coordination of community colleges vary from single-state governing boards to minimal state control and strong local governing boards. The relative degrees of state and local control of community colleges generally “follow the money,” in that accountability to state and local governing board and state legislatures is generally about proportional to the funds provided by each level of government. Funding for operational support of community colleges comes primarily from state and local governments, with considerable federal support for grants and subsidized loans to students. In 2000–2001, the largest proportional funding sources for community colleges were: state governments (44.6%)...
Starring Pirates: Metaphors for Understanding Recent Popular Mexican Film

Abstract Critics largely ignore Mexican films such as Ninas mal, Casi divas, and Te presento a Laura that find box office success. Besides a star theme, these titles incorporate the “child of a pirate” topic, which also informs La misma luna. The article suggests academically palatable metaphors of piracy, celebrity, and credit in recent hit movies.
Studies Dealing with the Cycloaddition/Ring Opening/Elimination Sequence of 2-Amino-Substituted Isobenzofurans.

The α-thiocarbocation generated from the Pummerer reaction of an o-amido-substituted sulfoxide is intercepted by the adjacent amido carbonyl group to produce a 2-amino-substituted isobenzofuran as a transient intermediate. In the presence of an electron-deficient dienophile, the reactive isobenzofuran undergoes a Diels−Alder cycloaddition followed by ring opening to furnish a vinylogous C-acyliminium ion that readily aromatizes. The one-pot intramolecular cascade process only occurs either if the olefinic tether is activated by an ester or if a carbonyl group is located adjacent to the nitrogen atom of the 2-amino-substituted isobenzofuran. To examine the amine vs amide influence on the course of intramolecular cycloaddition, density functional theory (DFT) calculations have been carried out for both ground and transition states. The results strongly suggest that the amide-substituted isobenzofurans are destabilized by steric effects between the aromatic ring and the nitrogen-containing side chain. Raisin...
Hazardous Occupations Within the Job Hierarchy

Hazardous Occupations Within the Job Hierarchy James C. Robinson* Firms using hazardous technologies face strong incentives to reduce job skill and training requirements so as to minimize the level of compensating wage differentials they must pay. This note examines the outcome of this process in terms of the location of hazardous occupations within the overall structure of jobs. Using four independent sources of data for the period I974 to 1982, hazardous Occupations are found to offer significantly less worker autonomy, less on-the-job training, poorer promotion possibilities, greater risk of temporary and permanent layoff, and lower wage levels than safe occupations. WHEN CONSIDERING workers will select safe positions over hazardous ones unless offered offsetting desirable features in the hazardous positions. Hazardous occupations therefore might be expected to offer greater autonomy, promotion possibilities, employment security, and earnings levels than safe occupations, controlling for skill requirements. For most jobs, however, skill requirements are not determined solely by technological factors; they also reflect social and organizational features of the employment relation. Firms possess considerable latitude in assigning particular jobs to particular positions within the internal labor market and in deciding which jobs to subcontract to other firms. This note investigates the tendency for firms to minimize the extent of compensating wage and nonwage differentials they must pay to workers in hazardous positions by assigning these occupations to undesirable job ladders or subcontracting them to secondary labor market firms. ALTERNATIVE JOB POSSIBILITIES, *School of Public Health and Institute of Industrial Relations, University of California at Berkeley. Support for this study was obtained from the Institute of Industrial Relations, University of California at Berkeley. INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS, Vol. 27, No. 2 (Spring 1988). 0 1988 Regents of the University of California
Effects of information feedback loops on supply chain performance

Managing the supply chain has become vital to business success in the contemporary Electronic Commerce environment. There is broad agreement among practitioners and academics that integration, on a variety of dimensions, is the key to supply chain performance. Information integration is one important dimension, and the Internet is rapidly improving our ability to do so across global supply chains. Significant investments in information technology (IT) generally, and Internet technologies in particular, are being targeted specifically at supply chain management. The business impact of these IT investments depends not just on the information flows supported by these systems, but also on other physical characteristics of the supply chain. It is the complex interplay among information and non-information characteristics that results in business performance or the lack thereof.
Single-Crystal Linear Polymers Through Visible Light–Triggered Topochemical Quantitative Polymerization

One of the challenges in polymer science has been to prepare large-polymer single crystals. We demonstrate a visible light-triggered quantitative topochemical polymerization reaction based on a conjugated dye molecule. Macroscopic-size, high-quality polymer single crystals are obtained. Polymerization is not limited to single crystals, but can also be achieved in highly concentrated solution or semicrystalline thin films. In addition, we show that the polymer decomposes to monomer upon thermolysis, which indicates that the polymerization-depolymerization process is reversible. The physical properties of the polymer crystals enable us to isolate single-polymer strands via mechanical exfoliation, which makes it possible to study individual, long polymer chains.
Experimental Effects of Hyperbaric Oxygen on Selected Clostridial Species. I. In-Vitro Studies

The in-vitro effect of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) on Clostridia was investigated for evaluation of HBO therapy for clostridial infection. Log-phase bacteria in solid medium or broth were exposed to various pressures of O2 (usually 3 atmospheres absolute pressure); bacterial inactivation was quantitated by anaerobic incubation and viable counts. Hyperbaric oxygen was bactericidal for Clostridium perfringens. Clostridium novyi, Clostridium histolyticum, and Clostridium tetani were similarly sensitive to O2, but Clostridium bifermentans and Clostridium septicum were more resistant. Spore suspensions of C. perfringens, C. histolyticum, and C. bifermentans were resistant to 18 hr of O2 at 3 atmospheres absolute pressure. Whole blood partially blocked the inactivation of C. perfringens in HBO. The basis for this protection was the enzymatic destruction of H202 by catalase. Other Clostridia were not protected to the same extent by catalase, suggesting that they might be more sensitive to H2O2 or to other inactivating effects of HBO.
Tanning addiction and psychopathology: Further evaluation of anxiety disorders and substance abuse.

Background Little research has investigated the correlates of problematic tanning and tanning dependence. Objective We sought to identify characteristics associated with problematic tanning and tanning dependence, and to evaluate simultaneously the associations of variables as correlates of problematic tanning and tanning dependence. Method To assess tanning-related characteristics, psychopathology, and demographics, we administered questionnaires to 533 tanning university students; 31% met criteria for tanning dependence, 12% for problematic tanning. Results Both problematic tanning and tanning dependence were significantly associated with being female ( P P P P = .005, respectively) and body dysmorphic ( P = .019 and P P P Limitations The sample was recruited from 1 university and contained only self-report measures. Conclusion Results suggest that many who engage in excessive tanning may also have significant psychiatric distress. Additional research is needed to characterize compulsive, problematic tanning and its rates, correlates, and risk factors among diverse samples.
The impact of El Niño events on the pelagic food chain in the northern California Current.

The zooplankton of the northern California Current are typically characterized by an abundance of lipid-rich copepods that support rapid growth and survival of ecologically, commercially, and recreationally valued fish, birds, and mammals. Disruption of this food chain and reduced ecosystem productivity are often associated with climatic variability such as El Nino events. We examined the variability in timing, magnitude, and duration of positive temperature anomalies and changes in copepod species composition in the northern California Current in relation to 10 tropical El Nino events. Measurable impacts on mesozooplankton of the northern California Current were observed during seven of 10 of these events. The occurrence of anomalously warm water and the response of the copepod community was rapid (lag of zero to 2 months) following the initiation of canonical Eastern Pacific (EP) events, but delayed (lag of 2-8 months) following 'Modoki' Central Pacific (CP) events. The variable lags in the timing of a physical and biological response led to impacts in the northern California Current peaking in winter during EP events and in the spring during CP events. The magnitude and duration of the temperature and copepod anomalies were strongly and positively related to the magnitude and duration of El Nino events, but were also sensitive to the phase of the lower frequency Pacific Decadal Oscillation. When fisheries managers and biological oceanographers are faced with the prospect of a future El Nino event, prudent management and observation will require consideration of the background oceanographic conditions, the type of event, and both the magnitude and duration of the event when assessing the potential physical and biological impacts on the northern California Current.
Neoptolemus grows up? 'Moral development' and the interpretation of sophocles' Philoctetes

Sophocles' Philoctetes, first performed in 409 BCE, is a complex play, engaging with a number of issues that have guaranteed it a great deal of attention through the ages. Among other things, from what we know about the Aeschylean and Euripidean versions, Sophocles offers a far more dynamic work than either of the other two playwrights, involving many plot twists, false resolutions, and, all-but uniquely, a character who seems to grow up in the course of the play. Although Philoctetes is generally considered the key figure of the play, as it revolves around his willingness to use his bow in the service of his enemies, Neoptolemus too is of great interest to many (modern) readers, as it is in him that we see the clearest case in extant tragedy of a decision rethought on moral grounds; Neoptolemus' struggle may well render him one of the most compelling characters in Greek tragedy (Reinhardt (1979) 166; cf. Gill (1996) 1–18).
Feedback Structures for Vapor Compression Cycle Systems

This paper explores the controllability and interconnectedness of input-output relationships in vapor compression cycles. The magnitude of physical coupling between different outputs used in the feedback loop are examined. It is shown that an alternative to the conventional feedback configuration found in the literature has distinct benefits that allow for improved system regulation using simple classical control techniques. A relative gain array analysis technique is shown to be an effective method for identifying proper feedback configurations that maximize the controllability of vapor compression systems.
A Cloud-Patch Technique for Identification and Removal of No-Rain Clouds from Satellite Infrared Imagery.

Abstract A new cloud-patch method for the identification and removal of no-rain cold clouds from infrared (IR) imagery is presented. A cloud patch is defined as a cluster of connected IR imagery pixels that are colder than a given IR brightness temperature threshold. The threshold is derived through a combination of the rainfall field estimated from microwave observations and the IR data closely coincident with microwave sensor satellite overpasses. Seven cloud-patch features are used to describe cloud-top properties, including six IR based and one VIS based. The ID3 algorithm is used to extract structural knowledge from a training dataset and to produce classification rules expressed explicitly on the values of various patch features; these rules can be used to explain the physical principles underlying the cloud classification. The method was evaluated for the Japanese islands and surrounding oceans using AIP/1 data for June (training period) and July–August (evaluation period) 1989. The results of iden...
Extracting story units from long programs for video browsing and navigation

Content based browsing and navigation in digital video collections have been centered on sequential and linear presentation of images. To facilitate such applications, nonlinear and non sequential access into video documents is essential, especially with long programs. For many programs, this can be achieved by identifying underlying story structures which are reflected both by visual content and temporal organization of composing elements. A new framework of video analysis and associated techniques are proposed to automatically parse long programs, to extract story structures and identify story units. The proposed analysis and representation contribute to the extraction of scenes and story units, each representing a distinct locale or event, that cannot be achieved by shot boundary detection alone. Analysis is performed on MPEG compressed video and without a prior models. The result is a compact representation that serves as a summary of the story and allows hierarchical organization of video documents.
A transcriptome database for astrocytes, neurons, and oligodendrocytes: a new resource for understanding brain development and function.

Understanding the cell–cell interactions that control CNS development and function has long been limited by the lack of methods to cleanly separate neural cell types. Here we describe methods for the prospective isolation and purification of astrocytes, neurons, and oligodendrocytes from developing and mature mouse forebrain. We used FACS (fluorescent-activated cell sorting) to isolate astrocytes from transgenic mice that express enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) under the control of an S100β promoter. Using Affymetrix GeneChip Arrays, we then created a transcriptome database of the expression levels of >20,000 genes by gene profiling these three main CNS neural cell types at various postnatal ages between postnatal day 1 (P1) and P30. This database provides a detailed global characterization and comparison of the genes expressed by acutely isolated astrocytes, neurons, and oligodendrocytes. We found that Aldh1L1 is a highly specific antigenic marker for astrocytes with a substantially broader pattern of astrocyte expression than the traditional astrocyte marker GFAP. Astrocytes were enriched in specific metabolic and lipid synthetic pathways, as well as the draper/Megf10 and Mertk/integrin αvβ5 phagocytic pathways suggesting that astrocytes are professional phagocytes. Our findings call into question the concept of a “glial” cell class as the gene profiles of astrocytes and oligodendrocytes are as dissimilar to each other as they are to neurons. This transcriptome database of acutely isolated purified astrocytes, neurons, and oligodendrocytes provides a resource to the neuroscience community by providing improved cell-type-specific markers and for better understanding of neural development, function, and disease.
Technology Development Related to Tactical Cryocoolers at Raytheon Infrared Operations

Two technology areas have been investigated recently at Raytheon Infrared Operations (RIO). First, we have developed a small cryocooler with good performance at high operating temperatures. The design approach for this cryocooler will be reviewed, and the measured performance data at the integrated dewar/cooler assembly level will be presented, with emphasis on performance at high operating temperatures. The first production run of over 100 cryocoolers was recently completed.
Impedance matching of laser diodes using packaged microstrip lines: active and passive

Summary form only given. Impedance matching of laser diodes using packaged microstrip structures is discussed for both active and passive matching networks. The first step in accomplishing any reasonable match to driving a laser diode requires a careful measurement of the input impedance of the packaged laser diode. Although the nonlinear behavior of a laser diode presents a frequency dependent impedance and is dependent upon the threshold current, the impedance of the Mitsubishi laser diode used in our case was given as approximately a series resistance of 4 ohms plus an inductance of 3 nanoHenrys for a frequency range of 0.5 GHz to 5 GHz when the laser is modulated above threshold. The task to be accomplished then is to provide a matching circuit to the laser diode providing an efficient throughput of modulator power. An example of a simple single stub matching circuit fabricated on microstrip is shown. The results of both the passive and active matching circuits will be presented.
Practical Electrochemical Anodic Oxidation of Polycyclic Lactams for Late Stage Functionalization

Electrochemistry provides a powerful tool for the late-stage functionalization of complex lactams. A two-stage protocol for converting lactams, many of which can be prepared through the intramolecular Schmidt reaction of keto azides, is presented. In the first step, anodic oxidation in MeOH using a repurposed power source provides a convenient route to lactams bearing a methoxy group adjacent to nitrogen. Treatment of these intermediates with a Lewis acid in dichloromethane permits the regeneration of a reactive acyliminium ion that is then reacted with a range of nucleophilic species.
Are Cosmic Strings Gravitationally Sterile? (More on gravitational Aharonov‐Bohm interaction)

Some genuine gravitational phenomena, associated with the conical structure of space-time, which can be attributed to the Aharonov-Bohm gravitational interaction are discussed. It is shown that cosmic string produces specific kinematical anomalies in the relative motion of gravitating bodies. Conical space topology leads to the modification of their Newtonian interaction potential and produces tidal force acting upon a single point particle. This tidal force is attractive and opens the possibility of gravitationally bound states of a body and a straight cosmic string. Tidal interaction also produces gravitational friction force upon the string meeting some system of massive bodies. In contrast, there is no tidal interaction between two parallel straight strings at rest. Gravitational radiation emitted by a test particle moving near the cosmic string, is shown to increase as the third power of the associated Lorentz-factor. Finally, it is shown that quantum gravitational fluctuations around a cosmic string dominate over vacuum polarization of lower spin fields.
Laminar-Turbulent Transition Process in Pulsatile Flow

A controlled ex-vivo study of a simple, sinusoidally oscillating flow in a rigid, constant-area, smooth tube, has produced significant insight into the laminar-turbulent transition phenomenon. The development of turbulence was studied by analyzing the dynamic characteristics of the transition process; i.e., the velocity, growth rate, and intermittency which describe the generation and propagation of turbulent slugs. A new concept, the relaxation time, has been introduced to interpret the effect of a periodic flow component superposed on a mean flow. Classical stability concepts, such as the point of inflection criterion and the Reynolds number, which have been derived from steady-flow analysis, are shown to require modification when applied to an oscillatory flow. Neither the mean nor the instantaneous Reynolds number is a sufficient criterion for determining the transition of laminar to turbulent flow in a pulsatile system. Other necessary criteria are: (1) a source of disturbances, (2) the relaxation time, and (3) the distance from the fluid under observation to the source of disturbance. The concept of relaxation time indicates that slowly oscillating flows of large amplitude tend to suppress or destroy turbulence downstream from sources of disturbance. Qualitative observations are presented which indicate that systolic acceleration may be laminar regardless of the large value of the instantaneous Reynolds number, while diastolic deceleration probably produces disturbed, but not turbulent or highly dissipative, flow.