cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Stork: making data placement a first class citizen in the grid

Todays scientific applications have huge data requirements which continue to increase drastically every year. These data are generally accessed by many users from all across the the globe. This implies a major necessity to move huge amounts of data around wide area networks to complete the computation cycle, which brings with it the problem of efficient and reliable data placement. The current approach to solve this problem of data placement is either doing it manually, or employing simple scripts which do not have any automation or fault tolerance capabilities. Our goal is to make data placement activities first class citizens in the Grid just like the computational jobs. They will be queued, scheduled, monitored, managed, and even check-pointed. More importantly, it will be made sure that they complete successfully and without any human interaction. We also believe that data placement jobs should be treated differently from computational jobs, since they may have different semantics and different characteristics. For this purpose, we have developed Stork, a scheduler for data placement activities in the grid.
Using Student Development Theory to Inform Our Curriculum and Pedagogy: A Response to the Secretary of Education's Commission on the Future of Higher Education.

This paper discusses Education Secretary Margaret Spelling's Commisssion on Higher Education Report and gives some examples of appropriate classroom exercises that address some of her concerns.
CKM matrix and standard model CP violation

Abstract The currently favored model of CP violation is based on phases in the Cabibbo-Kobayashi-Maskawa (CKM) matrix describing the weak charge-charging couplings of quarks. The present status of parameters of this matrix is described. Tests of the theory, with particular emphasis on the study of B meson decays, are then noted. Some remarks are made regarding the possible origin of the baryon asymmetry of the universe; the corresponding coupling pattern of the leptons could shed light on the question. Some possibilities for non-standard physics are discussed.
Fast alternating linearization methods for minimizing the sum of two convex functions

We present in this paper alternating linearization algorithms based on an alternating direction augmented Lagrangian approach for minimizing the sum of two convex functions. Our basic methods require at most $${O(1/\epsilon)}$$ iterations to obtain an $${\epsilon}$$ -optimal solution, while our accelerated (i.e., fast) versions of them require at most $${O(1/\sqrt{\epsilon})}$$ iterations, with little change in the computational effort required at each iteration. For both types of methods, we present one algorithm that requires both functions to be smooth with Lipschitz continuous gradients and one algorithm that needs only one of the functions to be so. Algorithms in this paper are Gauss-Seidel type methods, in contrast to the ones proposed by Goldfarb and Ma in (Fast multiple splitting algorithms for convex optimization, Columbia University, 2009) where the algorithms are Jacobi type methods. Numerical results are reported to support our theoretical conclusions and demonstrate the practical potential of our algorithms.
The Optical Depth to Reionization as a Probe of Cosmological and Astrophysical Parameters

Current data of high-redshift absorption-line systems imply that hydrogen reionization occurred before redshifts of about 5. Previous works on reionization by the first stars or quasars have shown that such scenarios are described by a large number of cosmological and astrophysical parameters. Here we adopt a semianalytic model of stellar reionization in order to quantify how the optical depth to reionization depends on such parameters, and combine this with constraints from the cosmic microwave background (CMB). We find this approach to be particularly useful in alleviating the well-known degeneracy in CMB parameter extraction between the optical depth to reionization and the amplitude of the primordial power spectrum, due to the complementary information from the reionization model. We also examine translating independent limits on astrophysical parameters into those on cosmological parameters, or, conversely, how improved determinations of cosmological parameters can constrain astrophysical unknowns.
Sincere voting in models of legislative elections

An assumption of sincere voting for one's most preferred candidate is frequently invoked in models of electoral competition in which the elected legislature consists of more than a single candidate or party. Voters, however, have preferences over policy outcomes--which are determined by the ex post elected legislature--and not over candidates per se. This observation provokes the following question. For what methods of translating election results into legislative policy outcomes is sincere voting rational in the legislative election? This paper provides the answer. One of the principal implications is that for sincerity to be rational, there necessarily exists a candidate for office whose electoral platform is the final legislative outcome, whether or not that candidate is elected to the legislature.
Electro-Optical System Environment Simulation

The evaluation of the interactive nonlinear performance of an electro-optical system is often best achieved by exercising the system in the context of a simulated environment which provides more complex and realistic stimuli than bench tests at less than field testing. The systematic behavior of an electro-optical device, test goals, and simulator resources jointly constrain an appropriate simulation environment. It is the responsibility of the simulation specialist to recognize the peculiar qualities of the object system and to provide for it an environment which, in its relevant characteristics, is practically indistinguishable from the real world, and which is sufficient to exercise the system over its entire stimulus domain. To illustrate this thesis, the location of a hypothetical missile seeker/tracker in the context of a hardware-in-the-loop simulation will be established and the manipulable features of its environment illustrated. Some aspects of such a device's response to its environment which have required special attention will be discussed.
Plk2 regulates mitotic spindle orientation and mammary gland development

Disruptions in polarity and mitotic spindle orientation contribute to the progression and evolution of tumorigenesis. However, little is known about the molecular mechanisms regulating these processes in vivo. Here, we demonstrate that Polo-like kinase 2 (Plk2) regulates mitotic spindle orientation in the mammary gland and that this might account for its suggested role as a tumor suppressor. Plk2 is highly expressed in the mammary gland and is required for proper mammary gland development. Loss of Plk2 leads to increased mammary epithelial cell proliferation and ductal hyperbranching. Additionally, a novel role for Plk2 in regulating the orientation of the mitotic spindle and maintaining proper cell polarity in the ductal epithelium was discovered. In support of a tumor suppressor function for Plk2, loss of Plk2 increased the formation of lesions in multiparous glands. Collectively, these results demonstrate a novel role for Plk2 in regulating mammary gland development.
Diaspora Networks: A New Impetus to Drive Entrepreneurship

Promoting entrepreneurship abroad by engaging, designing, and implementing a comprehensive Diaspora strategy network constitutes an immense source of ‘soft power.’ Diaspora network is the new impetus to drive entrepreneurship and has the capacity to convert the brain drain into brain gain and brain circulation. Diasporas, through their confluence of education, network, and access to capital in home countries, are particularly advantageous for global entrepreneurs due to their international presence and the wide range of resources they can potentially make available to entrepreneurs. To effectively use Diaspora as a tool, policymakers need to create a favorable business climate through trade liberalization reforms, encourage flows of FDIs, ensure good governance through transparent financial and legal frameworks, and engage the network through an ecosystem that promotes entrepreneurship.
Effective neutron targets

Abstract Because of the lack of a free neutron target, deuterium targets have been used extensively in studying the neutron structure. The unique spin structure of the 3 He ground state wave function and the recent developments in laser technologies made polarized 3 He targets widely used in many experiments from neutron electromagnetic from factor studies to nucleon spin structure function measurements at all major electron accelerator facilities. In this talk, the current status of the polarized 3 He targets will be reviewed. I will focus on neutron electromagnetic form factor studies using polarized 3 He targets. The polarized nucleon spin structure function measurements using polarized 3 He targets will also be discussed.
Diagnosis of Achilles tendon xanthoma in patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia: MR vs sonography.

The purpose of this study was twofold: (1) to determine the characteristic MR appearance of the xanthomatous tendons of heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia and (2) to determine which of two imaging techniques, high-frequency linear-array sonography or MR imaging, is better for detection of xanthomas.Sonography and MR imaging were performed to evaluate the Achilles tendons in 10 patients (20 tendons) with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia. For sonography, 7.5- (nine patients) and 10.0- (one patient) MHz transducers were used. T1-weighted, proton density-weighted, and T2-weighted MR images were obtained at 0.5 T (four patients) and 1.5 T (six patients), including fat-suppressed (six patients) and water-suppressed (one patient) T1-weighted images at 1.5 T. Tendon abnormalities detected with both techniques were noted, and the results were compared.In all tendons, sonograms showed focal hypoechoic lesions compatible with xanthomas. MR images did not show focal lesions. Instead, all pulse seque...
Monopole-antimonopole condensation in the interpolating Georgi-Glashow model

Abstract We study the three dimensional Georgi-Glashow model (which interpolates smoothly between pure U(1) and SU(2) limits) using a constrained cooling which preserves 't Hooft-Polyakov monopoles. We find that the monopole-antimonopole condensation gives an area law for the Wilson loops. The monopole contribution to the string tension is close to the Monte Carlo value in the intermediate region.
Adaptation potential of European agriculture in response to climate change

On-farm adaptations could play an important role in moderating the adverse effects of climate change on agriculture. Here, a statistical approach is applied to assess the adaptation potential of agriculture in Europe, focusing on three major crops—maize, wheat and barley.
Automated feedback generation for introductory programming assignments

We present a new method for automatically providing feedback for introductory programming problems. In order to use this method, we need a reference implementation of the assignment, and an error model consisting of potential corrections to errors that students might make. Using this information, the system automatically derives minimal corrections to student's incorrect solutions, providing them with a measure of exactly how incorrect a given solution was, as well as feedback about what they did wrong.We introduce a simple language for describing error models in terms of correction rules, and formally define a rule-directed translation strategy that reduces the problem of finding minimal corrections in an incorrect program to the problem of synthesizing a correct program from a sketch. We have evaluated our system on thousands of real student attempts obtained from the Introduction to Programming course at MIT (6.00) and MITx (6.00x). Our results show that relatively simple error models can correct on average 64% of all incorrect submissions in our benchmark set.
Usage of the Lund Rotordynamic Programs in the Analysis of Centrifugal Compressors

This paper is intended to be a history of the usage of the Jorgen Lund rotordynamic programs in the analysis of centrifugal compressors from the perspective of the author's experience in that industry. Application of the Lund tilt pad bearing, rotor response, and stability programs will be described. They will be seen to be the basis for an industry wide acceptance criterion for the rotor dynamics of centrifugal compressors. They are used in the required audit reports for new compressors, and in trouble shooting investigations on the rotordynamics of centrifugal compressors.
Measuring outcomes in urogynecological surgery: “perspective is everything”

Over 10 years have passed since the first US National Institutes of Health consensus panel considered the standardization of definitions of pelvic floor conditions and the criteria utilized for reporting pelvic floor research study outcomes. The literature is replete with pelvic floor outcome studies; however, a consistent standardized approach to the evaluation of patients and characterization of outcomes is still needed. The purpose of this overview is to describe how the use of outcome measures has evolved over time and to attempt to help readers utilize the best measures for their clinical and research needs.
Technology‐Based New Product Development Partnerships*

Hypotheses were developed to capture the dynamic capabilities that result from interfirm partnerships during the joint new product development (NPD) process—the ability to build, integrate, and reconfigure existing resources to adapt to rapidly changing environments. These capabilities, in turn, were proposed to have a positive impact on NPD performance outcomes: (a) proportion of new product success and (b) superior new product commercialization. In contexts where the locus of innovation is rapidly changing, the impact of interfirm NPD dynamic capabilities was hypothesized to be diminished in high-technology contexts, especially for buyers (original equipment manufacturers) and to a lesser extent for suppliers. Still, technology-based interfirm NPD partnerships were predicted to ultimately outperform low-technology ones in both NPD performance outcomes. Finally, information technology (IT) support for NPD was hypothesized to influence the interfirm NPD partnership's dynamic capabilities. Using survey data from 72 auto company managers and their suppliers, the proposed model in which IT support for NPD influences the success of interfirm NPD partnerships through the mediating role of interfirm NPD partnership dynamic capabilities in high- and low-technology contexts was generally supported. The results shed light on the nature of technology-based interfirm NPD partnerships and have implications for their success. Theoretical and managerial implications are discussed.
Edge and region analysis for digital image data

Abstract In this paper we provide a unified view of edge and region analysis. Our framework is based on the sloped-facet model which assumes that regions of image segments are maximal areas which are sloped planes. Edge strength between two adjacent pixels is measured by the F statistic used to test the significance of the difference between the parameters of the best-fitting sloped neighborhoods containing each of the given pixels. Edges are declared to exist at locations of local maxima in the F -statistic edge strength picture. We show that this statistically optimum procedure in essence scales the edge strength statistic of many popular edge operators by an estimate of the image noise. Such a scaling makes optimum detection possible by a fixed threshold procedure.
An adsorption chromatography assay to probe bulk particle transport through hydrogels.

ABSTRACT: Biopolymer-based hydrogels such as mucus and the basal lamina play a key role in biology, where they control the exchange of material between different compartments. They also pose a barrier that needs to be overcome for successful drug delivery. Characterizing the permeability properties of such hydrogels is mandatory for the development of suitable drug delivery vectors and pharmaceutics. Here, we present an experimental method to measure bulk particle transport through hydrogels. We validate our assay by applying it to mucin hydrogels and show that the permeability properties of these mucin hydrogels can be modulated by polymer density and pH, in agreement with previous results obtained from single particle tracking. The method we present here is easy to handle, inexpensive, and high-throughput compatible. It is also a suitable platform for the design and screening of drugs that aim at modifying the barrier properties of hydrogels. This system can also aid in the characterization and development of synthetic gels for a range of biomedical applications. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association.
In situ proton irradiation creep of ferritic–martensitic steel T91

Abstract An irradiation creep apparatus was developed for in situ straining of T91 strip samples while exposed to 2–3 MeV proton irradiation at 300–600 °C. Thermal creep experiments were conducted at 600 °C, 47 MPa, and 500 °C, 160 MPa. The thermal creep strains were in reasonable agreement with literature data on bulk samples of T91. An irradiation creep experiment was conducted at 500 °C and 160 MPa with a damage rate range from 3.1 × 10 −6 dpa/s to 4.9 × 10 −6 dpa/s. The creep rate of T91 was found to increase linearly with dose rate. A TEM investigation of the irradiated microstructure showed signs of dislocation pileup, subgrain formation, and small dislocation loops. The results illustrate the utility of accelerator-creep experiments to obtain creep rates at low dose and the capability to observe transient changes in real time, thus providing the tools for isolating the effects of individual variables on creep rate of T91.
New Steps to Improve Rotordynamic Stability Predictions of Centrifugal Compressors

Improved rotordynamic stability is desired by end users, and centrifugal compressor manufacturers are expected to meet, if not exceed, this expectation. Compressor manufacturers are required to design and build machines that are rotordynamically stable on the test stand and in the field. Confidence has been established in predicting the excitation forces from seals and bearings, but impeller aerodynamic excitation forces continue to be a challenge. While much attention is paid to impellers from an aerodynamic performance point of view, more efforts are needed from a rotordynamic standpoint. A high-pressure, reinjection centrifugal compressor is analyzed in order to predict rotordynamic stability using the best available resources for seals and bearings. Impeller shroud forces are predicted using the bulk-flow model developed by Gupta and Childs (Gupta, M., and Childs, D., Proc. of ASME Turbo Expo 2000, Power for Land, Sea, and Air). Each impeller stage is analyzed and an attempt is made to improve the estimation of impeller aerodynamic excitation forces. Logarithmic decrement (log dec) predictions for the full rotor model consisting of all the stages and seals are compared to the full-load full-pressure test measured values using a magnetic bearing exciter. A good correlation is obtained between the measured test results and analytical predictions.
A Cationic Antimonite Chain Templated by Sulfate: [Sb6O74+][(SO42–)2]

An extended metal oxide possessing a cationic charge on the host has been synthesized by hydrothermal methods. The structure consists of 1D antimony oxide [Sb6O7]4+ chains with a new structural motif of four Sb atoms wide and unprotonated sulfate anions between the chains. The material was characterized by powder and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Thermal behavior and chemical resistance in aqueous acidic conditions (pH ∼2) indicate a highly stable cationic material. The stability is attributed to the entirely inorganic composition of the structure, where 1D covalently extended chains are electrostatically bound to divalent anions.
Spin hamiltonian for the quantum Hall state in a ladder geometry

The first calculation of the true ground state of the parent Hamiltonian proposed by Laughlin [Laughlin, Ann. Phys. 191, 163 (1989)] for the $m=2$ fractional quantum Hall state on a torus is presented. Laughlin's model is generalized to the case of a system in a ladder geometry and rewritten in terms of familiar spin-spin interactions, demonstrating that the model corresponds to a long-range Heisenberg Hamiltonian with an additional four-site interaction. The exact diagonalization of the Hamiltonian is performed to extract the energies, correlation functions, sublattice magnetization, and overlap with the quantum Hall state. Our results confirm the recent work showing that the model is not exact [Schroeter, Ann. Phys. 310, 155 (2004)] and also show it to be not without merit: the overlap between the quantum Hall (QH) state and exact ground state approaches the significant value of 0.83 in the limit that the ladder becomes infinitely long.
Axons degenerate in the absence of mitochondria in C. elegans.

Summary Many neurodegenerative disorders are associated with mitochondrial defects [1–3]. Mitochondria can play an active role in degeneration by releasing reactive oxygen species and apoptotic factors [4–7]. Alternatively, mitochondria can protect axons from stress and insults, for example by buffering calcium [8]. Recent studies manipulating mitochondria lend support to both of these models [9–13]. Here, we identify a C. elegans mutant, ric-7 , in which mitochondria are unable to exit the neuron cell bodies, similar to the kinesin-1/ unc-116 mutant. When axons lacking mitochondria are cut with a laser, they rapidly degenerate. Some neurons even spontaneously degenerate in ric-7 mutants. Degeneration can be suppressed by forcing mitochondria into the axons of the mutants. The protective effect of mitochondria is also observed in the wild-type: a majority of axon fragments containing a mitochondrion survive axotomy, whereas those lacking mitochondria degenerate. Thus, mitochondria are not required for axon degeneration and serve a protective role in C. elegans axons.
Finite-temperature retarded and advanced fields

Abstract By employing retarded and advanced propagators, Aurenche and Becherrawy showed how to rewrite the real-time thermal Feynman rules so that the temperature dependence is removed from the free propagators and transferred to the vertices. The present paper introduces retarded and advanced field operators and incorporates all temperature dependence into the interaction term of the Hamiltonian. Perturbative expansions of the Green functions in the Hamiltonian formulation give the correct results order by order in perturbation theory. The spectrum of the temperature-dependent Hamiltonian contains the thermal quasiparticles that produce poles in the propagators.
X-ray measurement of the spin-down of CalverA: A radio- and gamma-ray-quiet pulsar

We measure spin-down of the 59 ms X-ray pulsar Calvera by comparing the XMM-Newton discovery data from 2009 with new Chandra timing observations taken in 2013. Its period derivative is P-dot =(3.19± 0.08)×10{sup −15}, which corresponds to spin-down luminosity E-dot =6.1×10{sup 35} erg s{sup –1}, characteristic age τ{sub c}≡P/2 P-dot =2.9×10{sup 5} yr, and surface dipole magnetic field strength B{sub s} = 4.4 × 10{sup 11} G. These values rule out a mildly recycled pulsar, but Calvera could be an orphaned central compact object (anti-magnetar), with a magnetic field that was initially buried by supernova debris and is now reemerging and approaching normal strength. We also performed unsuccessful searches for high-energy γ-rays from Calvera in both imaging and timing of >100 MeV Fermi photons. Even though the distance to Calvera is uncertain by an order of magnitude, an upper limit of d < 2 kpc inferred from X-ray spectra implies a γ-ray luminosity limit of <3.3 × 10{sup 32} erg s{sup –1}, which is less than that of any pulsar of comparable E-dot . Calvera shares some properties with PSR J1740+1000, a young radio pulsar that we show by virtue of its lack of proper motion was born outside ofmore » the Galactic disk. As an energetic, high-Galactic-latitude pulsar, Calvera is unique in being undetected in both radio and γ-rays to faint limits, which should place interesting constraints on models for particle acceleration and beam patterns in pulsar magnetospheres.« less
Discovery of a New Pulsar Wind Nebula in the Large Magellanic Cloud

We present new high-resolution radio and X-ray observations of the supernova remnant (SNR) B0453-685 in the Large Magellanic Cloud, carried out with the Australia Telescope Compact Array and the Chandra X-Ray Observatory, respectively. Embedded in the SNR shell is a compact central nebula producing both flat-spectrum polarized radio emission and nonthermal X-rays; we identify this source as a pulsar wind nebula (PWN) powered by an unseen central neutron star. We present a new approach by which the properties of a SNR and PWN can be used to infer upper limits on the initial spin period and surface magnetic field of the unseen pulsar, and we conclude that this star was an initial rapid rotator with current properties similar to those of the Vela pulsar. As is the case for other similarly aged sources, there is currently an interaction taking place between the PWN and the SNR's reverse shock.
Socioeconomic status in childhood and health after age 70: A new longitudinal analysis for the U.S., 1895-2005

Abstract The link between circumstances faced by individuals early in life (including those encountered in utero) and later life outcomes has been of increasing interest since the work of Barker in the 1970s on birth weight and adult disease. We provide such a life course perspective for the U.S. by following 45,000 individuals from the household where they resided before age 5 until their death and analyzing the link between the characteristics of their childhood environment – particularly, its socioeconomic status – and their longevity and specific cause of death. White U.S.-born males living before age 5 in lower SES households (measured by father's occupation and family home ownership) who survive to age 70 die younger and are more likely to die from heart disease than those living before age 5 in higher SES households. The pathways potentially generating these effects are discussed.
Hyperthermia induced by direct injections of carbachol in the anterior hypothalamus.

Abstract Micro-injections of carbachol in the anterior-preoptic hypothalamic area of rats induced hyperthermia. The magnitude of the effect was dose dependent and the results were related to theoretical issues which arose from previous studies in which hyperthermia was associated with intraventricular injections of acetylcholine.
Reference deconvolution: a simple and effective method for resolution enhancement in nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy

Linewidths and line shapes are key criteria determining the utility of a nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrum, and considerable effort is usually devoted to shimming the magnetic field (B0) to ensure optimum resolution. However, even if the external field is almost perfectly homogeneous, the sample itself can induce gradients owing to susceptibility effects from its overall shape or internal heterogeneity. Thus, magnetic field gradients nearly always contribute significantly to the linewidths and shapes in an NMR spectrum. Reference deconvolution is a technique which uses the shape of a single resonance line to measure the actual frequency distribution produced by the local B0 inhomogeneity and then deconvolves that distribution from the whole spectrum. It is a simple linear process which requires no prior knowledge of the number of lines, their intensities, or their relaxation characteristics. No fitting procedures are used. This article reviews the reference deconvolution method, demonstrates its application to one-dimensional NMR spectroscopy, and discusses the tradeoffs between resolution and signal/noise. ©2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Concepts Magn Reson 12: 21–42, 2000
On the Relationship Between Fuel Injection Pressure and Two-Stage Ignition Behavior of Low Temperature Diesel Combustion

In previous work, it is reported that increased dilution at mid-range injection pressures produces longer first stage combustion (cool-flame) duration. There is also corresponding decreases in nitric oxide concentrations and smoke number with respect to a reference conventional combustion mode. Continuing this effort, the objective of this study is to investigate the effect of injection pressure on the cool-flame duration under low temperature combustion conditions. A sweep of injection pressure is performed and the resulting heat release profiles are examined. The ignition delay behavior is expected based on changing injection pressure, but the cool-flame duration does not follow expected trends based on initial literature review. It is postulated that the influence of injection pressure on the local equivalence ratios is causing the observed behavior. The appropriate measurement and analysis tools are not available to the authors to confirm this postulation. A literature review of work investigating ignition conditions in low temperature combustion modes is used to support the postulation made in this study.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Heparin chain-length dependence of factor Xa inhibition by antithrombin in plasma

Heparin anticoagulants function by enhancing the inhibition of coagulation proteases by the serpin antithrombin (AT). A direct evaluation of the specific anti-factor Xa (fXa) activity of therapeutic heparins in the physiologically relevant plasma-based clotting assays has not been feasible since thrombin, the final protease of the cascade, is the primary target for inhibition by AT in the presence of heparin. To circumvent this problem, we developed an assay in which the native AT in plasma was replaced with an AT mutant which exhibits identical affinity for heparin and near normal reactivity for fXa, but does not react with thrombin and other coagulation proteases in either the absence or presence of heparin. This assay was used to distinguish the anti-fXa activity of different molecular weight heparins from their anti-thrombin activity in clotting assays which were initiated by the triggers of either the extrinsic or intrinsic coagulation pathway. The results suggest that the acceleration of fXa inhibition by AT exhibits a marked heparin chain-length dependence, with fondaparinux (a pentasaccharide) having the lowest and unfractionated heparin having the highest effect. Interestingly, comparative studies revealed that the fondaparinux-catalyzed acceleration of thrombin inhibition by AT also contributes to the prolongation of the clotting time, possibly suggesting that the anticoagulant function of the therapeutic pentasaccharide is mediated though the inhibition of both fXa and thrombin.
Teamthink: beyond the groupthink syndrome in self‐managing work teams

Self‐managing teams have been credited with many positive payoffs. These include increased quality, productivity, employee quality of work life, and decreases in absenteeism and turnover. Significant attention has been devoted to the actual benefits derived from these group applications. What is typically lacking is exploration of the road‐blocks to self‐managed team success. Examines an important challenge to SMT success ‐ the threats that groups face when making decisions. Notable evidence indicates that cohesive groups (such as self‐managing teams) tend to create internal pressures towards conformity that interfere with constructive critical analysis and ultimately lead to dysfunctional decisions. The term groupthink has been coined for this process that threatens effective group decision making. Addresses this challenge in some detail. In particular, proposes a new effective group condition ‐ teamthink ‐ a group decision‐making process that enables groups to make effective decisions while avoiding the...
Point Sets with Many k-Sets

For any n , k , n\geq 2k>0 , we construct a set of n points in the plane with $ne^{\Omega({\sqrt{\log k}})}$ k -sets. This improves the bounds of Erd?s, Lovasz, et al. As a consequence, we also improve the lower bound for the number of halving hyperplanes in higher dimensions.
An Adaptive Distributed Channel Allocation Strategy for Mobile Cellular Networks

A channel allocation algorithm includes a channel acquisition algorithm and a channel selection algorithm. Most of the previous work concentrates on the channel selection algorithm since early channel allocation algorithms simply use a centralized channel acquisition algorithm, which depends on a mobile switching center (MSC) to accomplish channel acquisition. Recently, distributed channel acquisition algorithms have received considerable attention due to their high reliability and scalability. There are two approaches to designing distributed channel acquisition algorithms: search and update. The update approach has shorter acquisition delay and lower call blocking rate, but higher message complexity. On the other hand, the search approach has lower message complexity, but longer acquisition delay and higher call blocking rate. In this paper, we propose a novel distributed channel acquisition algorithm, which is a significant improvement over both approaches. Also, we identify two guiding principles in designing channel selection algorithms and propose an algorithm which has low call blocking rate and low intrahandoff overhead. By integrating the channel selection algorithm into our channel acquisition algorithm, we get a complete distributed channel allocation algorithm. By keeping the borrowed channels, the channel allocation algorithm makes use of the temporal locality and adapts to the network traffic; i.e., free channels are transferred to hot cells to achieve load balance. Simulation results show that our channel allocation algorithm significantly outperforms the search approach and the update approach in terms of call blocking rate, message complexity, and acquisition delay.
Set constraints for destructive array update optimization

Destructive array update optimization is critical for writing scientific codes in functional languages. We present set constraints for an interprocedural update optimization that runs in polynomial time. This is a multi-pass optimization, involving interprocedural flow analyses for aliasing and liveness. We characterize and prove the soundness of these analyses using small-step operational semantics. We also prove that any sound liveness analysis induces a correct program transformation.
Explicit bounds for sums of squares

For an even integer k, let r2k(n) be the number of representations of n as a sum of 2k squares. The quantity r2k(n) is appoximated by the classical singular series �2k(n) ≍ n k 1 . Deligne's bound on the Fourier coefficients of Hecke eigenforms gives that r2k(n) = �2k(n) + O(d(n)n k 1 2 ). We determine the optimal implied constant in this estimate provided that either k/2 or n is odd. The proof requires a delicate positivity argument involving Petersson inner products.
Remember the Age and Purpose of Our Profession

We should remember two aspects about our profession. The first is that we began as an honest and noble profession that adhered to the concept of “fiduciary.” The second is that we are a young profession and should not accept our history as “the norm” or as predictive of the future.
Classical advection of guiding centers in a random magnetic field

We investigate theoretically and experimentally classical advective transport in a 2D electron gas in a random magnetic field. For uniform external perpendicular magnetic fields large compared to the random field we observe a strong enhancement of conductance compared to the ordinary Drude value. This can be understood as resulting from advection of cyclotron guiding centers. For low disorder this enhancement shows non-trivial scaling as a function of scattering time, with consistency between theory and experiment.
Precise calculation of the relic density of Kaluza-Klein dark matter in universal extra dimensions

We revisit the calculation of the relic density of the lightest Kaluza-Klein particle (LKP) in the model of Universal Extra Dimensions. The Kaluza-Klein (KK) particle spectrum at level one is rather degenerate, and various coannihilation processes may be relevant. We extend the calculation of hep-ph/0206071 to include coannihilation processes with all level one KK particles. In our computation we consider a most general KK particle spectrum, without any simplifying assumptions. In particular, we do not assume a completely degenerate KK spectrum and instead retain the dependence on each individual KK mass. As an application of our results, we calculate the Kaluza-Klein relic density in the Minimal UED model, turning on coannihilations with all level one KK particles. We then go beyond the minimal model and discuss the size of the coannihilation effects separately for each class of level 1 KK particles. Our results provide the basis for consistent relic density computations in arbitrarily general models with Universal Extra Dimenions.
Molecular self-assembly into one-dimensional nanostructures.

Self-assembly of small molecules into one-dimensional nanostructures offers many potential applications in electronically and biologically active materials. The recent advances discussed in this Account demonstrate how researchers can use the fundamental principles of supramolecular chemistry to craft the size, shape, and internal structure of nanoscale objects. In each system described here, we used atomic force microscopy (AFM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to study the assembly morphology. Circular dichroism, nuclear magnetic resonance, infrared, and optical spectroscopy provided additional information about the self-assembly behavior in solution at the molecular level. Dendron rod−coil molecules self-assemble into flat or helical ribbons. They can incorporate electronically conductive groups and can be mineralized with inorganic semiconductors. To understand the relative importance of each segment in forming the supramolecular structure, we synthetically modified the dendron, rod, and coi...
Hybrid decentralized maximum entropy control for large-scale dynamical systems

Abstract In the analysis of complex, large-scale dynamical systems it is often essential to decompose the overall dynamical system into a collection of interacting subsystems. Because of implementation constraints, cost, and reliability considerations, a decentralized controller architecture is often required for controlling large-scale interconnected dynamical systems. In this paper, a novel class of fixed-order, energy-based hybrid decentralized controllers is proposed as a means for achieving enhanced energy dissipation in large-scale lossless and dissipative dynamical systems. These dynamic decentralized controllers combine a logical switching architecture with continuous dynamics to guarantee that the system plant energy is strictly decreasing across switchings. The general framework leads to hybrid closed-loop systems described by impulsive differential equations. In addition, we construct hybrid dynamic controllers that guarantee that each subsystem–subcontroller pair of the hybrid closed-loop system is consistent with basic thermodynamic principles. Special cases of energy-based hybrid controllers involving state-dependent switching are described, and an illustrative combustion control example is given to demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed approach.
Exploring Stigmatization and Stigma Management in Mental Health Court: Assessing Modified Labeling Theory in a New Context

Drawing on Link and colleagues' modified labeling theory, this article examines whether the stigma management strategies defendants anticipate using after mental health court exit are associated with their reported experiences during court. Using survey data from 34 mental health court graduates, we find that respondents generally perceive the mental health court as procedurally just, did not experience stigmatizing shame, and anticipate using the inclusionary coping strategy of education over the exclusionary strategies of secrecy and withdrawal. Moreover, findings reveal that the anticipated use of stigma management strategies is associated with mental health court experiences in that procedural justice is associated with inclusionary coping strategies, while stigmatizing shame is associated with exclusionary coping strategies. We conclude by encouraging researchers to further explore the role of stigmatization and shame in specialty court contexts and to continue investigating these defendant perceptions of these courts' process.
What do returns to acquiring firms tell us? Evidence from firms that make many acquisitions

We study shareholder returns for firms that acquired five or more public, private, and0or subsidiary targets within a short time period. Since the same bidder chooses different types of targets and methods of payment, any variation in returns must be due to the characteristics of the target and the bid. Results indicate bidder shareholders gain when buying a private firm or subsidiary but lose when purchasing a public firm. Further, the return is greater the larger the target and if the bidder offers stock. These results are consistent with a liquidity discount, and tax and control effects in this market. Takeovers are one of the most important events in corporate finance, both for a firm and the economy. Extensive research has shown that shareholders in target firms gain significantly and that wealth is created at the announcement of takeovers ~i.e., combined bidder and target returns are positive!. However, we know much less about the effects of takeovers on the shareholders of acquiring firms. Evidence suggests that these shareholders earn, on average, a zero abnormal return at the acquisition’s announcement, though there is tremendous variation in these returns. Researchers have been unable to successfully explain much of this variation, partially because the announcement of a takeover reveals information about numerous things. For example, Grinblatt and Titman ~2002, p. 708! state that the stock return at the time of the bid cannot be completely attributed to the expected effect of the acquisition on profitability, arguing that, “the stock returns of the bidder at the time of the announcement of the bid may tell us more about how the market is reassessing the bidder’s business than it does about the
Long-term follow-up study of periarteritis nodosa.

Abstract The records of 130 patients with histologically proved periarteritis nodosa seen at the Mayo Clinic from 1946 through 1962 were reviewed. Intensive corticosteroid or ACTH therapy had been given to 110 of these patients. The expected survivorship, calculated by the life-table method, revealed a five year survival of 48 per cent for the treated patients and 13 per cent for the untreated ones. The presence of hypertension or renal disease at the initial examination seemed to worsen the prognosis. Both disorders were less frequent in patients who had received steroid therapy early in the course of their disease. Subdivision, on clinical grounds, into those with and without pulmonary involvement appeared to have no value in regard to the prognosis. Early and vigorous steroid therapy was of significant value in improving the results in patients with periarteritis nodosa. The majority of patients had to continue this treatment on a long-term basis to suppress symptoms or to prevent exacerbations. Side effects were infrequent.
Price Protection in the Personal Computer Industry

Price protection is a commonly used practice between manufacturers and retailers in the personal computer (PC) industry, motivated by drastic declines of product values during the product life cycle. It is a form of rebate given by the manufacturer to the retailer for units unsold at the retailer when the price drops during the product life cycle. It is a controversial policy in the PC industry because it is not clear how such a policy benefits the supply chain and its participants. We show that price protection is an instrument for channel coordination. For products with long manufacturing lead times, so the retailer has a single buying opportunity, a properly chosen price protection credit coordinates the channel. For products with shorter manufacturing lead times, so the retailer has two buying opportunities, price protection alone cannot guarantee channel coordination when wholesale prices are exoge-nous. However, when the price protection credit is set endogenously together with the wholesale prices, channel coordination is restored. In the two-buying-opportunity setting with fixed wholesale prices, we show that price protection has two primary impacts: (1) shifting sales forward in time and (2) increasing total sales. Finally, we present a simple numerical example that suggests, given the current economics of the PC industry, that price protection under fixed wholesale prices may benefit the total chain and the retailer but hurt the manufacturer.
Design and Stability of Load-Side Primary Frequency Control in Power Systems

We present a systematic method to design ubiquitous continuous fast-acting distributed load control for primary frequency regulation in power networks, by formulating an optimal load control (OLC) problem where the objective is to minimize the aggregate cost of tracking an operating point subject to power balance over the network. We prove that the swing dynamics and the branch power flows, coupled with frequency-based load control, serve as a distributed primal-dual algorithm to solve OLC. We establish the global asymptotic stability of a multimachine network under such type of load-side primary frequency control. These results imply that the local frequency deviations on each bus convey exactly the right information about the global power imbalance for the loads to make individual decisions that turn out to be globally optimal. Simulations confirm that the proposed algorithm can rebalance power and resynchronize bus frequencies after a disturbance with significantly improved transient performance.
Thermal Load Effects on Precision Membranes

The potential for placing large, ultralightweight precision re ectors in space is currently being investigated throughuseofmembranestructures. Their capacityfor reducing launchmassand stowedvolumeis being exploited. However, on-orbit performance will require an understanding of the effects of thermal loads on re ector surface precision. Thermal load effects cut both ways, and selective heating of the re ector may someday be used to effect desirable changes in the surface pro le. Both theoretical and experimental analyses are provided of an in atedmembrane re ector with a thermal load acting on its surface. A goalwas to compare temperature-induced changes in shape with the results obtained for enforced boundary displacements along the entire rim, which has previously been shown to be an effective control strategy. The Hencky/Campbell problem is solved numerically (Hencky, H., “Uber den Spannungszustand in Kreisrunde Platten,” Z. Mathematics and Physics, Vol. 63, 1915, pp. 311–317; Campbell, J. D., “On the Theory of Initially Tensioned Circular Membranes Subjected to Uniform Pressure,” Quarterly Journal of Mechanics and Applied Mathematics, Vol. 9, 1956, pp. 84–93), but with a thermal strain imposed.Thenonlinear  nite element codeABAQUS is then used for comparison.Themodel was studied for different temperature pro les, varying both in temperature magnitude and spatial extent. Finally, a preliminary experiment is performed, using infrared thermography to measure the membrane surface temperature, and these results are compared to the theoretical models.
Oxidative Strand Scission of Nucleic Acids: Routes Initiated by Hydrogen Abstraction from the Sugar Moiety.

ion from the Sugar Moiety Wendy Knapp Pogozelski† and Thomas D. Tullius*,‡ Department of Chemistry, State University of New York at Geneseo, Geneseo, New York 14454, and Department of Chemistry, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts 02215 Received August 27, 1997 (Revised Manuscript Received February 26, 1998)