cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
DOES PERCEPTUAL ACUITY MATTER? — AN INVESTIGATION OF ENTREPRENEURIAL ORIENTATION, PERCEPTUAL ACUITY, AND FIRM PERFORMANCE

One critical proposition in normative strategic management research is that an accurate perception of the environment by top managers is a prerequisite to attaining better organizational performance. However, recent entrepreneurship studies suggest that entrepreneurs are often leading or even causing environmental changes, and thus they may perceive greater industrial instability than there actually is. In this project, we examine if an over-perception of industrial instability exists among entrepreneurs. If it does, which perceptual mode (accurate perception versus over-perception) will benefit firm performance? We conducted the study in a highly volatile environment — China — and found that entrepreneurial orientation (EO) had an inverse U-shape relationship with perceptual acuity of industrial instability, indicating that a greater level of EO indeed led to an over-perception of industrial instability. However, we found that although perceptual acuity of industrial instability improved firm sales, it was negatively associated with organizational effectiveness evaluated by top managers. Additional analyses were conducted and implications were provided in the end.
A Comparison of Adults with Intellectual Disabilities with and without ASD on Parallel Measures of Challenging Behaviour: The Behavior Problems Inventory-01 (BPI-01) and Autism Spectrum Disorders-Behavior Problems for Intellectually Disabled Adults (ASD-BPA)

Challenging behaviour may not be part of the diagnostic criteria for Autistic Disorder but they are frequently exhibited by children and adults with this condition. Levels of challenging behaviours are highest in individuals with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and co-occurring intellectual disability (ID). The sample for this study consisted of 57 institutionalized adults with ID who either did or did not meet criteria for an ASD on a screening instrument [Autism Spectrum Disorders-Diagnosis for Intellectually Disabled Adults (ASD-DA)]. These two groups were compared on two parallel measures of challenging behaviour commonly used with this population: the Behavior Problems Inventory-01 (BPI-01) and Autism Spectrum Disorders-Behavior Problems for Intellectually Disabled Adults (ASD-BPA). Consistent with previous research, individuals with ASD demonstrated higher levels of overall challenging behaviour and especially with regard to self-injurious and stereotypical behaviours. The convergent validity of these two scales was also demonstrated for the entire sample and by group.
Diagnosis and Management of Bullous Disease

As the population ages, the prevalence of bullous skin diseases will escalate. Efficient management depends on timely recognition by the physician and reduces the morbidity associated with the disease course. This article outlines the common bullous dermatoses affecting older adults and provides tips for a streamlined approach to workup and treatment.
Longitudinal Correlates of Health Risk Behaviors in Children and Adolescents with Type 2 Diabetes

Objectives To characterize, during a 2-year period, the proportion of youth with type 2 diabetes (T2D) enrolled in the Treatment Options for Type 2 Diabetes in Adolescents and Youth study that reported ever at least trying smoking cigarettes and/or drinking alcohol. Study design Longitudinal data were examined for participants with T2D ages 10-18 years at baseline. Youth psychosocial, parent/family, environmental, and biological correlates of trying health risk behaviors were tested via cross-sectional multivariate models at each time point. Longitudinal models were explored for selected factors. Results Data were obtained from the Treatment Options for Type 2 Diabetes in Adolescents and Youth study's ethnically diverse participants at baseline (N = 644), 6-month (N = 616), and 24-month (N = 543) assessments. The percentage of youth ever trying only smoking remained stable at 4%; only drinking alcohol increased from 17% to 26%, and both smoking and drinking increased from 10% to 18% during the 2-year period. Factors related to trying health risk behaviors were older age, male sex, non-Hispanic white race-ethnicity, lower grades, more depressive symptoms, and stressful life events. Depressive symptoms, stressful life events, and body mass index Z-score (the latter with smoking only) were related to engagement in health risk behaviors over time. Conclusions Youth with T2D who are already at risk for health complications and who reported engaging in activities that further increase the likelihood of life-threatening morbidities were characterized. Although most correlates of trying these risk behaviors are nonmodifiable, intervention efforts may need to focus on potentially modifiable factors, such as depressive symptoms and lower grades.
Where will—and where should—Changes in education leave school psychology?

Abstract Current educational reforms and their influences are examined against a backdrop of historical change in education. A suggestion for the future direction of school psychology is presented in light of this historical perspective. A renewed emphasis on science is proposed. Assessment is reexamined with a focus on empirically based intervention and systematic evaluation of outcomes. The implications and benefits of such changes in the role of school psychologists for regular and special education students, individual school psychologists, and the profession are discussed.
Genetic mapping of non-target-site resistance to a sulfonylurea herbicide (Envoke ® ) in Upland cotton ( Gossypium hirsutum L.)

Acetolactate synthase (ALS) is responsible for a rate-limiting step in the synthesis of essential branched-chain amino acids. Resistance to ALS-inhibiting herbicides, such as trifloxysulfuron sodium (Envoke®), can be due to mutations in the target gene itself. Alternatively, plants may exhibit herbicide tolerance through reduced uptake and translocation or increased metabolism of the herbicide. The diverse family of cytochrome P450 proteins has been suggested to be a source of novel herbicide metabolism in both weed and crop plants. In this study we generated a mapping population between resistant and susceptible cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) cultivars. We found that both cultivars possess identical and sensitive ALS sequences; however, the segregation of resistance in the F2 progeny was consistent with a single dominant gene. Here we report the closely linked genetic markers and approximate physical location on chromosome 20 of the source of Envoke herbicide susceptibility in the cotton cultivar Paymaster HS26. There are no P450 proteins in the corresponding region of the G. raimondii Ulbr. genome, suggesting that an uncharacterized molecular mechanism is responsible for Envoke herbicide tolerance in G. hirsutum. Identification of this genetic mechanism will provide new opportunities for exploiting sulfonylurea herbicides for management of both weeds and crop plants.
Self-Determination: What Do We Know? Where Do We Go?.

Abstract Promoting self-determination has become an important aspect of the educational programs of students with disabilities. There is now a sufficient literature base to support some syntheses that enable researchers to judge their progress in this area to date and to provide direction for future research and practice. For this study, we conducted a literature review of studies that measured or examined global self-determination.
Chemistry of sulfonyl isocyanates and sulfonyl isothiocyanates. XII. Cyclizations with epoxides

4-Toluenesulfonyl isocyanate cyclized with 1,2-epoxy-3-phenoxypropane and 2,3-epoxypropyl 4-methoxyphenyl ether, respectively, to give 3-(4-toluenesulfonyl)-5-phenoxymethylene-2-oxazolidone (I) and 3-(4-toluenesulfonyl)-5-(4-methoxyphenoxymethylene)-2-oxazolidone (II). Compounds I and II were hydrolyzed in 2 M sodium hydroxide solution to the corresponding uncyclized hydroxy amides, VII and VIII. Compound I was remarkably stable toward 6 M hydrochloric acid and amines. Styrene oxide, 1,2-epoxybutane, 3-chloro-1,2-epoxypropane, and 1-methoxy-2-methylpropylene oxide reacted with the isocyanate to afford 3-(4-toluene-sulfonyl)-4-phenyl-2-oxazolidone (III), 3-(4-toluenesulfonyl)-4-ethyl-2-oxazolidone (IV), 3-(4-toluenesulfonyl)-5-chloromethyl-2-oxazolidone (V), and 3-(4-toluenesulfonyl)-4,4-dimethyl-5-methoxy-2-oxazolidone (VI), respectively. The yield of VI was constant over a temperature range of 25–90°.
Geothermal resource assessment of the United States

Geothermal resource assessment is the broadly based appraisal of the quantities of heat that might be extracted from the earth and used economically at some reasonable future time. In the United States, the Geological Survey is responsible for preparing geothermal assessments based on the best available data and interpretations. Updates are required every few years owing to increasing knowledge, enlarging data base, improving technology, and changing economics. Because geothermal understanding is incomplete and rapidly evolving, the USGS complements its assessments with a broad program of geothermal research that includes (1) study of geothermal processes on crustal and local scales, (2) regional evaluations, (3) intensive study of type systems before and during exploitation, (4) improvement of exploration techniques, and (5) investigation of geoenvironmental constraints.
Chandra Observations of “The Antennae” Galaxies (NGC 4038/4039). III. X-Ray Properties and Multiwavelength Associations of the X-Ray Source Population

We investigate the nature of the luminous X-ray source population detected in a (72 ks) Chandra ACIS-S observation of NGC 4038/4039, the Antennae galaxies. We derive the average X-ray spectral properties of sources in different luminosity ranges, and we correlate the X-ray positions with radio, IR, and optical (Hubble Space Telescope) data. The X-ray sources are predominantly associated with young stellar clusters, indicating that they belong to the young stellar population. Based on both their co-added X-ray spectrum and the lack of associated radio emission, we conclude that the ultraluminous X-ray sources (ULXs), with LX ≥ 1039 ergs s-1, are not young compact supernova remnants (SNRs) but accretion binaries. While their spectrum is consistent with those of ULXs studied in nearby galaxies and interpreted as the counterparts of intermediate-mass black holes (M > 10-1000 M☉), comparison with the position of star clusters suggests that some of the ULXs may be runaway binaries, thus suggesting lower mass binary systems. The co-added spectrum of the sources in the 3 × 1038 to 1039 ergs s-1 luminosity range is consistent with those of Galactic black hole candidates. These sources are also on average displaced from neighboring star clusters. The softer spectrum of the less luminous sources suggests the presence of SNRs or of hot interstellar medium in the Chandra source extraction area. Comparison with H I and CO observations shows that most sources are detected in the outskirts of large concentrations of gas. The absorbing columns inferred from these observations would indeed absorb X-rays up to 5 keV, so there may be several hidden X-ray sources. Associated with these obscured regions, we find six sources with heavily absorbed X-ray spectra and absorption-corrected luminosities in the ULX range. We detect the nuclei of both galaxies, with luminosities in the 1039 ergs s-1 range and soft, possibly thermal X-ray spectra.
Iron binding of gastric mucins.

Abstract A comparison of the iron-binding capacities of isolated mucin fractions from the antral and fundic regions of the stomach was conducted. No particular glycoprotein fraction was found to have an unusually high iron-binding capacity. Other macromolecules also bound iron. Thus, it appears that no single molecular entity is responsible for the binding of iron in the gastric juice but this property is shared among a variety of mucinous and other macromolecular substances.
Rhinovirus-induced activation of intracellular signaling events in human monocytes and alveolar macrophages

Abstract Rationale Respiratory infections with rhinovirus (RV) are a major cause of asthma exacerbations and may contribute to the overall pathogenesis of asthma. Alveolar macrophages, the predominant immune cell in the airway lumen, have been implicated in promoting cytokine dysregulation within the inflammatory microenvironment in response to RV respiratory infections. Given the importance of RV in the pathobiology of asthma and the paucity of information on the intracellular mechanisms by which RV activates macrophages, this study evaluated the activity of MAP Kinases and CREB, a transcription factor critical for the induction of several proinflammatory cytokines, following monocyte or macrophage exposure to RV. Methods Primary human monocytes or alveolar macrophages were incubated with purified human RV-16 (MOI=0.01-100) for 5-120min. Cell lysates were immunoblotted with antibodies for activated (phosphorylated) MAP Kinases or CREB. Results Exposure of human monocytic cells to RV results in the activation of both JNK and p38 MAP Kinases in a time- and dose-dependent manner (N=3). However ERK1 and ERK2 activation following RV stimulation is not discernable. Furthermore, RV-induces phosphorylation of the CREB transcription factor. Lastly, pretreatment of human monocytic cells with SB202190, a selective inhibitor of p38 MAP Kinase, diminishes RV-induced CREB activation (N=3). Conclusions These studies demonstrate that RV interaction with monocytic cells stimulates the phosphorylation and activation of MAP Kinase pathways, and CREB and suggest that this is an important mechanism regulating macrophage cytokine elaboration during virus-induced exacerbations of asthma.
Teacher evaluation — Who needs it?

The article describes a system of teacher evaluation developed by the author. Director of Evergreen School for Gifted Children. It is a type of evaluation which promotes teacher involvement throughout and provides for faculty development. The evaluation includes a self study, peer observation, team critique, and administrator observation and critique. Summaries of the observations are discussed with the teacher and a plan to implement changes or modifications is developed. The article also describes four teacher types defined by level of commitment and abstraction ability. The supervisory orientation suitable for each type for successful evaluation and faculty development is illustrated.
Surgical management of chronic sialorrhea in pediatric patients: 10-year experience from one tertiary care institution

Abstract Background Chronic sialorrhea is a common problem for pediatric patients with disorders that affect swallowing. While many patients are successfully treated with medical therapies such as Robinul and Scopolamine, a number of such children are not able to tolerate the side effects of these medications. In these cases, surgical treatments can include Botulinum toxin A (Botox) injections into the major salivary glands, sublingual or submandibular gland excision (SMGE), submandibular duct ligation, parotid duct ligation (PDL), or any combination of the above procedures. The purpose of this study is to report on the 10-year experience with the surgical management of chronic sialorrhea at one tertiary care institution, and compare the efficacy of open surgical procedures versus Botox injections for reduction in salivary flow. Methods A retrospective chart review identified 27 pediatric patients with chronic sialorrhea; 21 of whom underwent Botox injections and 15 of whom underwent surgical procedures. Preoperative and follow-up clinic notes were reviewed to determine the level and severity of drooling as well as the effectiveness of sialorrhea reduction, as assessed by the Teacher Drooling Scale (TDS). Results 42% of those receiving Botox injections reported a reduction in drooling, with the average pre- and post-Botox TDS of 4.3 and 3.9, respectively ( p = 0.02 by the Wilcoxon signed rank test). Nine of the patients receiving Botox injections (43%) required multiple injections, with an average duration of effect of 3.9 months, and 7 patients (33%) eventually required surgery. All of the children who underwent surgery (7 bilateral SMGE with PDL, 6 SMGE only, and 2 PDL only) experienced a reduction in drooling, with average pre- and post-operative TDS of 4.5 and 2.2, respectively. This reduction was significant by the Wilcoxon signed rank test ( p = 0.001). Conclusions The ten-year experience at our institution demonstrates the safety, efficacy and long-term control of drooling in the patients undergoing surgery for intractable sialorrhea.
B cell small lymphocytic lymphoma and chronic lymphocytic leukemia with peripheral neuropathy: two cases with neuropathological findings and lymphocyte marker analysis.

Two patients with lymphoproliferative disorders developed peripheral neuropathy and neoplastic lymphocytic nerve infiltrates. One of these patients, with B cell small lymphocytic lymphoma, presented with a chronic axonal neuropathy. CD22+, CD5− cells were identified in the epineurium. The other patient with chronic lymphocytic leukemia of 3 years duration developed a mixed axonal and demyelinating neuropathy. CD22+ and CD5+ cells were observed in the endoneurium. While the cause of the neuropathy in these two cases is unknown, intraneural or systemic autoantibody production may have led to the development of disease.
Soft Phosphate in Chick Rations

Abstract SINCE excellent reviews concerning phosphorus in chick rations have recently been presented (Almquist, 1954; Motzok et al., 1956), mention will be made only of publications which are directly related to the subject of this paper. Gerry et al. (1947) found that 2.5 percent soft phosphate with colloidal clay produced satisfactory calcification in young chicks, but the growth rate of these chicks was lower than with groups fed equivalent amounts of bone meal. Miller and Joukovsky (1953) reported that the phosphorus from dicalcium phosphate, Curacao Island phosphate, bone meal, and defluorinated phosphate were good sources of readily available inorganic phosphate. Soft phosphate was a poor source of available phosphorus for growing chicks and seemed to have less than 50 percent of the value of the other supplements. Experiments by Johnson et al. (1953) indicated that soft phosphate could be used to supply part of the phosphorus needs of young chicks. They …
Scenarios of nanotechnology innovation vis-à-vis sustainability challenges

Abstract Nanotechnology has driven speculations and projections of all colors and shapes. However, there is a paucity of future scenarios that explore distinct nanotechnology innovation and governance models . This study asks: What could the dominant innovation models look like in the future, and, in contrast, what could alternative ones look like? And how conducive are those different models to mitigating sustainability challenges and improving quality of life? To make the exploration tangible, this study focuses on nanotechnology innovation in an urban region (Phoenix, Arizona). The study uses a mixed methods approach, linking intuitive and analytical scenario construction, to allow for creativity while ensuring analytical rigor. Findings suggest four different models of nanotechnology innovation and governance affect sustainability challenges quite differently. Market-oriented and closed collaboration amplify the lack of social cohesion, result in low-wage service sector jobs, and intensify resource extraction rates. Alternatively, social entrepreneurship and open-source innovation are more conducive to addressing sustainability challenges and improving quality of life, in particular in urban areas. The study concludes that the way a society innovates and governs its emerging technologies is decisive for the way those technologies work in favor of, or against comprehensive public interests.
Changes in yield classification in a soybean-rice rotation

For yield based site-specific management to be successful in fields with crop rotations, changes in management zones between crops must be determined. The study objectives were to determine if yield classes change between crops within a rotation and whether soil properties can predict the yield classes or the year-to-year changes. A percentile classification method was used to categorize yearly soybean (Glycine max) and rice (Oryza sativa) yield in two fields with soybean-rice-soybean rotations into low, medium and high yield classes. There was little agreement in yield classifications between years. Yield class based on soil properties was predicted accurately by linear discriminant analysis in Field 1 20–67% of the time and in Field 2 13–83% of the time. Predictions in Field 1 were based on soil available Mg and P, elevation and the deep soil apparent electrical conductivity (ECa). Predictions in Field 2 were based on soil texture, soil available P, K and Mg, and pH. The linear discriminant analysis was also able to predict year-to-year changes in yield class. Changes in class in Field 1 could be predicted by total soil C and N, silt, and soil available Mg and P depending on the year. Soil texture, soil available P, K and Mg, total soil C and pH, elevation and deep soil ECa predicted yield changes in Field 2 depending on the year. The results of this study indicate only limited success at management zone definition in a soybean-rice rotation. Further investigation is needed with other crop rotation sequences to verify the findings of this study.
Research on the comparability of the oral proficiency interview and the simulated oral proficiency interview

Abstract The simulated oral proficiency interview (SOPI) is a tape-mediated test designed to be a surrogate for the oral proficiency interview (OPI) in situations where a face-to-face interview is not possible or desirable. This article reviews research that sheds light on the comparability of the two tests. It begins with a brief description of the SOPI and continues to discuss the results of research on the reliability of the two tests, the agreement of scores obtained on the two tests, the comparability of the approach to testing, and the qualitative content of speech samples obtained via the two approaches. This article concludes with suggestions for further research.
The hypersonic shock wave-turbulent boundary layer interaction generated by a sharp fin at Mach 8.2

A combined experimental and numerical study has been conducted on the hypersonic shock-wave turbulent-boundary layer interaction at Mach 8.2 generated by a single fin of angles alpha = 10 and 15 deg. Three models are considered: (1) the 3D compressible Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) equations using the k-epsilon turbulence model, (2) the 3D RANS using the Rodi turbulence model, and (3) the conical RANS using the Baldwin-Lomax algebraic turbulence model. The computations are compared with various experimental data. The computations using models (1) and (2) show quantitatively very similar results and very good agreement with experimental data for surface pressure and skin friction. Comparison with boundary layer profiles of pitot pressure and yaw angle are also generally good, but the peak surface heat transfer is overestimated by up to 48 percent. The effect of the laminar boundary layer on the fin is restricted to the immediate vicinity of the fin surface. Conical calculations using model (3) show substantially poorer agreement with experiment.
Two new acceptor building blocks for ‘high Tc’ coordination polymer magnets

Abstract Two new olefinic one-electron acceptor building blocks for ferrimagnetic coordination polymer networks have been synthesized. These compounds, pentafluorophenyltricyanoethylene (PTCE) and i-hexacyanodivinylbenzene (i-HCDVB, the ‘meta’ isomer), each react with vanadium hexacarbonyl to give an insoluble air-sensitive solid that is magnetically ordered below 240 and 120 K, respectively. In contrast, the para isomer, HCDVB, reacts similarly with V(CO)6, but does not give an ordering product. Installation of the tricyanovinyl function group to obtain the new acceptors proceeds simply from the appropriately substituted benzaldehyde, suggesting a convenient route for the preparation of other such molecules.
Three sympatric species of Blepharoneura (Diptera: Tephritidae) on a single species of host (Gurania spinulosa, Cucurbitaceae): new species and new taxonomic methods

. We describe two new species of Blepharoneura (Diptera: Tephritidae) from Venezuela and Trinidad and redescribe Blepharoneura atomaria (Fabricius), comb.n. Each of the morphologically similar sympatric species feeds on a different tissue of Gurania spinulosa Cogn. (Cucurbitaceae): seeds (B.manchesteri, sp.n.), male flowers (B.atomaria), and female flowers (B.perkinsi, sp.n.). With the help of elementary school children and teachers we developed new methods for detecting and describing wing patterns. We present frequency distributions of character states and describe a denticulate area within the distiphallus that may function as a holdfast. For each species we provide notes on the ecology and behaviour of larvae and adults.
Levels of Understanding--A Guide to the Teaching and Assessment of Knowledge.

Traditional education, employing lectures or telecommunicative instruction methods, has been very effective in providing topical facts. However, the development of student skills and thinking ability require higher levels of instruction and more opportunity to practice and apply acquired knowledge. As students progress through a particular curriculum, methods of instruction also change to reflect higher levels of understanding. The author addresses the issues involved in traditional education from a historical perspective as well as a current view of changes in the educational processes. The author also offers suggestions for change in the classroom.
The locus of leader character

Abstract Character is an indispensable component of leadership and its development, and thus warrants future research focus. Before a purposeful research stream on character can proceed, however, it is critical that we fully define and conceptualize the character construct (the ontological basis) and then consider how we might best measure this construct and test it across a diverse array of contexts (the epistemological basis). We pursue these ends by first unpacking the definition of leader character and then by posing a series of questions. Following our initial thoughts related to the locus of character and how leader character is transmitted to and received by followers, we proceed by discussing how character relates to or serves as an antecedent to exemplary leadership styles, how character is contextualized, and how character is developed.
Characterization of Photoionization Intermediates via ab Initio Molecular Dynamics

Ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) allows one to probe complex potential energy surfaces at finite temperatures. Here we extend this technique to the analysis of vertical excited states along grou...
Lexical acquisition: Where is the semantics?

In this paper, which motivates lexical acquisition, we explain why existing lexicons are not complete and describe the impact of lexical gaps. We survey acquisition methods relative to their required resources and show that learning algorithms must be designed so that they rely on resources that are technologically available. We discuss in this light the availability and accessibility of machine-readable dictionaries and corpora. Finally we investigate the aspect of lexical semantics, addressing the question, What is the resource from which lexical semantics can be acquired? The answer is not clear because semantics is nowhere to be found explicitly. Thus, we resort to learning semantics by bootstrapping from secondary clues.
Cancer education: an essential element in the conquest of cancer.

Cancer education is an essential element in the total national effort to control cancer. No expanded and intensified program, such as the one presently being planned in the United States, will succeed unless it provides the necessary skilled manpower to conduct research, training, and treatment programs. A team of specially trained medical personnel working in close cooperation is essential for adequate care of most cancer patients. There is, therefore, an urgent need to provide specialty training in oncology within each of the medical specialties.
Aerobic capacity in black adolescent girls

Abstract Our purpose was to determine the aerobic capacities (VO2max) of a group of black female adolescents (age = 11.4 − 15.8 years) randomly chosen from a single urban school. Of 91 girls selected, 64 performed an incremental treadmill running test to volitional exhaustion and achieved VO2max as determined from expired gas measures. Other measures included height (m), weight (kg), and calf and triceps skinfolds (for % fat estimates). Girls were also asked whether they had achieved menarche. VO2max averaged 37.3 ± 6.2 ml·kg−1 ·min−1 and was significantly correlated (r[62]) with height (−.32, p .10). Postmenarchal girls were significantly taller and older than premenarchal girls. Contrary to previous studies, the girls' VO2max values were not related to biological age. Our subjects' aerobic capacity values averaged 14% less than those of nonblack U.S. female adolescents previously reported in the literature. ...
A model for L-lactate binding to Cancer magister hemocyanin.

1. 1. l-Lactate raises the oxygen affinity of Cancer magister hemocyanin. The l-lactate analogs, d-lactate, glycolate and 2-methyl-lactate cause smaller increases in an oxygen binding affinity. Other analogs have no detectable effect. 2. 2. These data suggest that l-lactate binds to the hemocyanin at all four positions around the chiral carbon. 3. 3. The carboxyl and hydroxyl groups are required for activity. The protein can only partially distinguish between the methyl group and hydrogen atom.
Computational methods for determining the stability of pulses in passively modelocked laser systems

We develop robust computational methods that can rapidly determine the existence and stability of pulses in passively modelocked laser systems over a broad parameter range. We apply these methods to laser systems with several different models of fast saturable absorption.
Network socio-synthesis and emergence in nomads

NOMADS (Network-Operational Mobile Applied Digital System) is a network client-server-based system for participant interaction in music and multimedia performance contexts. NOMADS allows large groups of participants, including the audience, to form a mobile interactive computer ensemble distributed across a network. Participants become part of a synergistic interaction with other performers, contributing to the multimedia performance. The system enhances local performance spaces, and it can integrate audiences located in multiple performance venues. Individual user input from up to thousands of simultaneous users across a network is synthesised into a single emergent sound and visual structure in an approach we call socio-synthesis. This paper recounts research leading up to NOMADS, outlines its technological architecture, and describes several implementations. Current applications include the telematic opera Auksalaq, and performances by the MICE Orchestra. The authors also consider the potential of large-scale human-computer ensembles as a paradigm for composition and performance.
Detection in a four-observation two-channel task

Two models are proposed for a four-observation two-channel forced-choice paradigm of signal detection. The first model, an extension of signal detection theory, fails, while the second model, an extension of the classical decision threshold model, succeeds.
Variational transition state theory for activated chemical reactions in solution

Abstract An approach is outlined for including solvent effects in variational transition state theory calculations of rate constants for activated chemical reactions in solution. The focus is on methods capable of first-principles predictions of reaction rate constants from interatomic potential energy surfaces. The approach separates the system into a cluster model that is treated explicitly and the ‘solvent’ that is treated approximately, and includes both equilibrium solvation effects on interaction energies and non-equilibrium effects that enter through a solvent friction model. We discuss methods used to included quantum-mechanical effects on bound vibrational motions and quantum-mechanical effects on motion along a reaction coordinate (e.g. quantum tunnelling).
Iodine binding by amylopectin and stability of the amylopectin–iodine complex

The iodine binding capacity (IBC) of amylopectin (AP, from potatoes) is determined to be around 0.38% (w/w) of the total AP in the solution. The mass of iodine bound comprises about 13.6% of the mass of AP involved with the complex, suggesting that with every four iodine atoms bound there are 23 anhydroglucose residues (AGU). Since our previous study indicates that four iodine atoms within the helix of 11 AGUs form a chromophore unit in the API complex, only 48% of the AGUs (11 out of 23) in the AP molecule are directly involved with the iodine. The heat of reaction for the API complex formation is determined to be around −47 kJ/mol of I–I units bound and is significantly lower in magnitude than that of the amylose-iodine (AI) complex [Biopolymers, 31, 57 (1991)]. A possible mechanism has been proposed for the formation of AI and API complexes with fixed compositions. © 1994 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Nucleotide excision repair in chromatin and the right of entry

DNA is packaged with histones and other accessory proteins into chromatin in eukaryotic cells. It is well established that the assembly of DNA into chromatin affects induction of DNA damage as well as repair of the damage. How the DNA repair machinery detects a lesion and 'fixes it' in chromatin has been an intriguing question since the dawn of understanding DNA packaging in chromatin. Direct recognition/binding by damaged DNA binding proteins is one obvious tactic to detect a lesion. Rearrangement of chromatin structure during DNA repair was reported more than two decades ago. This early observation suggests that unfolding of chromatin structure may be required to facilitate DNA repair after lesions are detected. Cells can also exploit DNA processing events to assist DNA repair. Transcription coupled repair (TCR) is such an example. During TCR, an RNA polymerase blocked by a lesion, may act as a signal to recruit DNA repair machinery. Possible roles of histone modification enzymes, ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling complexes and chromatin assembly factors in DNA repair are discussed.
On the interpretation of the photoelectron spectrum of NiCO(

Ab initio calculations have been carried out for the X1Sigma(+), a3Delta, b3Delta(+), and c3Pi states of NiCO, using a large Gaussian basis set and an MCPF treatment of electron correlation. The calculated dissociation energies, De (kcal/mol), are 30.1, 11.5, 10.1, and 4.3 respectively. An analysis of the relative cross sections for photodetachment indicates the the lower energy feature in the photoelectron spectrum of NiCO(-) results primarily from bound-free transitions to the c3Pi state, with some contribution from bound-bound transitions to both the b3Sigma(+) and c3Pi states.
Strawberry Fruit Softening: The Potential Roles of Polyuronides and Hemicelluloses

Polyuronides and hemicelluloses derived from ethanol powders or cell walls of strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa, Duch. Dover) receptacle tissue were examined to determine if these wall polymers might be involved in the softening of this fruit. Throughout maturation and ripening, total polyuronides increased on a per fruit basis although as a percentage of ethanol powder they remained constant. Gel-filtration chromatography confirmed that polyuronide solubility was not correlated with extensive enzymic hydrolysis, an observation consistent with the fact that D-galacturonanase (polygalacturonase) activity was not detected in strawberry fruit. The sugar composition of alkali-soluble wall polymers showed little change throughout development. However, changes occurred in the molecular weights of these polymers during ripening.
Elastic Nucleon-Nucleon Scattering at High Energies and Small Angles

16:010900Total pi /sup plus or minus /-p cross sections at 10 to 20 Bev were measured using previous techniques (NSA, 15: 29935; 31307). Data are presented in graphical and tabular forms. Agreement with theory was obtained. (L.N.N.)
A Flush-Mounted Runway Antenna for Use with the FAA Directional Glide-Path System

A flush-mounted airport runway antenna has been designed, built, and tested which will allow glide-path signals for instrument landings to be radiated directly from the touchdown point on the runway. Empirical and simplified analytical design procedures are discussed together with a comparison of desirable and measured antenna characteristics. Sufficient low-elevation angle directivity has been obtained from a prototype antenna to provide a path which extends well beyond 5 miles, the approximate distance at which the glide is intercepted in practice.
Experiments on nonlinear wave propagation in disordered media

Abstract A fundamental question concerning systems which are both disordered and nonlinear is whether or not Anderson localization is weakened by the nonlinearity. Theory predicts that localized eigenstates will survive nonlinearity, whereas nonlinear pulses may or may not experience the effects of localization depending on the relative magnitude of the Anderson localization length and the characteristic width of the pulse. We have used nonlinear surface waves on a superfluid helium film to obtain results in agreement with the theoretical predictions.
A STUDY OF WRITING TASKS ASSIGNED IN ACADEMIC DEGREE PROGRAMS

Writing tasks assigned in 162 undergraduate and graduate courses in several disciplines at eight universities were collected. Using a sample of the assignments, key dimensions of difference were identified, and a classification scheme based on those dimensions was developed. Application of the classification scheme provided data on the prevalence of various types of assignments and, for essay tasks, showed the degree to which the assignments were characterized by each of several features. Differences in the kinds of writing tasks assigned in different groups of disciplines were examined.
NWSLite: A general-purpose, nonparametric prediction utility for embedded systems

Time series-based prediction methods have a wide range of uses in embedded systems. Many OS algorithms and applications require accurate prediction of demand and supply of resources. However, configuring prediction algorithms is not easy, since the dynamics of the underlying data requires continuous observation of the prediction error and dynamic adaptation of the parameters to achieve high accuracy. Current prediction methods are either too costly to implement on resource-constrained devices or their parameterization is static, making them inappropriate and inaccurate for a wide range of datasets. This paper presents NWSLite, a prediction utility that addresses these shortcomings on resource-restricted platforms.
Combined reactive/preventive approach for congestion control in ATM networks

An adaptive rate based congestion control mechanism based on the leaky bucket scheme is proposed. The parameters of the mechanism are controlled using (delayed) feedback information sent by the network. The network is modeled as a multiplexer fed by a number of sources each of which is controlled by a leaky bucket. A simple threshold policy at the multiplexer queue to detect congestion is examined. A Markovian state-space representation of the system is provided, which is used for an efficient simulation of the system. The effects of propagation delay and the parameters of the control scheme on the performance are studied. Results indicate that, even for large propagation delay, both an appropriate feedback policy at the source and a proper adaptive mechanism at the leaky buckets improve the system performance considerably. >
Counterfactuals and Affective Responses to Product Breakdown

Two experiments examined the effects of just missing warranty coverage on consumers’ affective reactions to product breakdowns. The research was guided by Kahneman and Tversky’s (1982) theorizing about conditions leading people to imagine superior outcomes to those actually experienced (counterf actuals). Students read scenarios describing a product needing repairs and the warranty coverage on the product. Just missing having repairs covered by a warranty led to more extreme affective reactions than when the breakdown occurred long after expiration, particularly for affects tied to the alternative action. The results are consistent with theorizing about counterfactuals.
Toward a general theory of research ethics.

Two seemingly distinct principles have dominated the ethics of human subjects research. On the one hand, based on the importance of personal autonomy, we require the informed consent of subjects who have decisional capacity, and provide special protections to those who lack such capacity. Separately, however, we also impose a variety of substantive restrictions on the conduct of studies. But do we really need two principles? Franklin Miller and Alan Wertheimer have produced a rich, elegantly argued essay suggesting that much of research ethics, as it relates to studies intended for adults with decisional capacity, can be derived from a single intriguing concept. They name it "group soft paternalism." Their line of reasoning proceeds as follows: First, because we cannot always accurately determine when someone has decisional capacity, people who lack sufficient capacity are regularly enrolled in such studies. To protect them from harm, we allow the studies to be conducted only if they adhere to various substantive restrictions, including specified risk-benefit criteria. These rules infringe on the autonomy of fully competent subjects. They prevent them from enrolling in studies that might otherwise have been conducted if there weren't any risk-benefit restrictions. The name "group soft paternalism" refers to the general policy of protecting from harm the members of a group that have impaired judgment, but for practical reasons applying that policy to all members of the group. Much of Miller and Wertheimer's discussion is devoted to an intricate and convincing demonstration of why group soft paternalism--which, as they forthrightly acknowledge, some people would claim is not truly paternalism--does not unethically infringe on anyone's autonomy. But one of their further claims--that this construct provides an explanation for the existing research rules relating to risks and benefits--seems less convincing. Imagine that the existing rules had been specifically crafted to deal with the authors' hypothesized scenario that many people who lack decision-making capacity are regularly enrolled in studies designed for competent adults. If that were the case, then those rules have a huge ethical flaw. Why? Because the risk-benefit rules that Miller and Wertheimer are trying to justify don't require that, from a subject's viewpoint, the benefits outweigh the risks. Far from it. They merely require that the benefits to the subject, combined with the benefits to society from the knowledge to be gained, must be reasonable relative to the risks. …
Monotonic Target Assignment for Robotic Networks

Consider an equal number of mobile robotic agents and distinct target locations dispersed in an environment. Each agent has a limited communication range and either: 1) knowledge of every target position or 2) a finite-range sensor capable of acquiring target positions and no a priori knowledge of target positions. In this paper we study the following target assignment problem: design a distributed algorithm with which the agents divide the targets among themselves and, simultaneously, move to their unique target. We evaluate an algorithm's performance by characterizing its worst-case asymptotic time to complete the target assignment; that is the task completion time as the number of agents (and targets) increases, and the size of the environment scales to accommodate them. We introduce the intuitive class of monotonic algorithms, and give a lower bound on its worst-case completion time. We design and analyze two algorithms within this class: the ETSP Assgmt algorithm which works under assumption 1), and the Grid Assgmt algorithm which works under either assumption 1) or 2). In ldquosparse environments,rdquo where communication is infrequent, the ETSP Assgmt algorithm is within a constant factor of the optimal monotonic algorithm for worst-case initial conditions. In ldquodense environments,rdquo where communication is more prevalent, the Grid Assgmt algorithm is within a constant factor of the optimal monotonic algorithm for worst-case initial conditions. In addition we characterize the performance of the Grid Assgmt algorithm for uniformly distributed targets and agents, and for the case when there are more agents than targets.
Correlates and consequences of pre-incarceration gang involvement among incarcerated youthful felons

Abstract Objective The primary aim of the study is to document the prevalence and variation in types of pre-incarceration gang membership among a sample of incarcerated felons. The second goal is to consider if and how pre-incarceration gang involvement affects institutional behavior. Materials and Methods This study builds on the existing literature by considering if and how different types of pre-incarceration gang involvement effect prison misconduct. This relationship is examined while controlling for attitudinal measures and pre-prison social characteristics that may condition entrance into gangs and involvement in serious prison misconduct. The study includes a sample of 504 youthful adults incarcerated in a large Midwestern state in 1996. Results The results highlight that there is a high degree of variation in pre-incarceration gang involvement. Moreover, involvement in different types of gangs also is a significant predictor of prison misconduct. Individuals involved in organized/criminal gangs at the point of incarceration experienced significantly more serious misconduct reports than their non-gang counterparts, but similar findings were not evident for those involved in unorganized gangs. Conclusions Even among a relatively serious population of youthful adult offenders, pre-incarceration gang involvement is uncommon. Pre-incarceration involvement in organized gangs represents a significant risk factor for prison misconduct.