cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Regional Multinationals: Regional multinationals: the new research agenda

One of the puzzles of international business research is that the key actor, the multinational enterprise (MNE), appears to have a very unevenly distributed geographic dispersion of sales. The MNE is usually a regionalized rather than a globalized business. Three definitions matter: (i) multinational enterprise: a firm with operations across national borders (ii) global business: a firm with major operations (at least 20% of its total sales) in each of the three regions of the “broad triad” of the European Union (EU), North America, and Asia-Pacific, but without one dominating region; (iii) regional business: a firm with the majority of its sales inside one of the triad regions, usually the home region. The following empirical observations have also been made: (i) the world's 500 largest MNEs account for over 90% of the world's stock of foreign direct investment (FDI) and over half of world trade, usually in the form of intra-firm sales (Rugman, 2000); (ii) of these 500 MNEs, only nine are “global”; (iii) the vast majority of the 500 MNEs (320 of the 380 for which data are available) are home-region based and derive an average of 80% of their sales intra-regionally. These stylized facts suggest a new research agenda for the international business field, as requested by Buckley (2002). In this chapter, we explore some aspects of this. The observed regionalization can be given a simple transaction cost economics (TCE) explanation.
Recent advances in calcium metabolism. II. Disorders of calcium homeostasis.

Abnormalities of calcium and mineral metabolism are described in relation to the differential diagnosis, clinical characteristics, diagnostic procedures, and treatment of infants and children with hypeocalcemia, hypercalcemia, ricket, chronic renal insufficiency, and other disorders of calcium metabolism. Understanding of the basic pathogenesis of each abnormality of calcium homeostasis is essential for the rational managment of affected patients.
Adding insult to injury?: the untoward impact of requiring more than de minimis injury in an Eighth Amendment excessive force case.

This Note explores the conflict over whether a prisoner must suffer more than de minimis injury to sustain an Eighth Amendment excessive force claim. It examines this conflict against the backdrop of the various standards the U.S. Supreme Court adopted in its Eighth Amendment prison conditions jurisprudence between 1976 and 1992, principally focusing on the 1992 Hudson v. McMillian decision. Moreover, this Note considers the intersection of "the evolving standards of decency," the "hands-off doctrine," and the Eighth Amendment injury requirement. Ultimately, this Note advocates that excessive force--when meted out as punishment--violates the Eighth Amendment's prohibition on cruel and unusual punishment regardless of whether a prisoner's injuries are more than de minimis. Language: en
Approximating revenue-maximizing combinatorial auctions

Designing revenue-maximizing combinatorial auctions (CAs) is a recognized open problem in mechanism design. It is unsolved even for two bidders and two items for sale. Rather than attempting to characterize the optimal auction, we focus on designing approximations (suboptimal auction mechanisms which yield high revenue). Our approximations belong to the family of virtual valuations combinatorial auctions (VVCA). VVCA is a Vickrey-Clarke-Groves (VCG) mechanism run on virtual valuations that are linear transformations of the bidders' real valuations. We pursue two approaches to constructing approximately optimal CAs. The first is to construct a VVCA with worst-case and average-case performance guarantees. We give a logarithmic approximation auction for basic important special cases of the problem: 1) limited supply of items on sale with additive valuations and 2) unlimited supply. The second approach is to search the parameter space of VVCAs in order to obtain high-revenue mechanisms for the general problem. We introduce a series of increasingly sophisticated algorithms that use economic insights to guide the search and thus reduce the computational complexity. Our experiments demonstrate that in many cases these algorithms perform almost as well as the optimal VVCA, yield a substantial increase in revenue over the VCG mechanism and drastically outperform the straightforward algorithms in run-time.
Silencing and Re-Expression of Retinoic Acid Receptor Beta2 in Human Melanoma

Many melanoma cells are resistant to the anti-proliferative effect of all trans retinoic acid (ATRA). Retinoic Acid Receptor-beta2 (RAR-beta2) mediates the ATRA growth inhibition. We found a correlation between the anti-proliferative activity of ATRA and expression of RAR-beta2. There was not a strict correlation between DNA methylation of RAR-beta gene and its expression. There was no difference in global and RARbeta specific nucleosome repeat length (NRL) in melanoma and melanocytes or between control and ATRA treated cells. Pan-acetylation of H3 and H4 within the RAR-beta gene promoter was higher in cells expressing RAR-beta2. All trans retinoic acid treatment of responsive cells did not change pan-acetylation of H3/H4, but addition of ATRA to non-responsive cells increased H4 pan-acetylation. Phytochemicals or the histone deacetylase inhibitor Trichostatin A did not restore expression of RAR-beta2. Treatment of WM1366 melanoma cells with 5-aza 2'-deoxycytidine reactivated RAR-beta2 gene expression and restored the ability of ATRA to further induce the expression of this gene. Therefore, promoter methylation is responsible for silencing of RAR-beta2 in some melanoma cells and pan-acetylation of H3 likely plays a permissive role in expression of RAR-beta2.
Global warming debate in the USA

Abstract Scientists have vigorously debated whether the rate of greenhouse gas accumulation in the atmosphere will lead to severe climate change in the next 20 or 30 years. An authoritative report has recently been published by the US National Academy of Science. It will be cited by scientists who urge that remedial action should immediately be started and by those who argue, to the contrary, that it is too early to cut back on CO2 emissions, industrial growth and energy use. The first rounds of the debate demonstrate that science policy has become highly controversial, and that projections of global warming could divide the scientific community along political lines. The course of the debate will be watched carefully in countries beyond the USA.
Undressing Religion: Commitment and Conversion from a Cross‐Cultural Perspective.

Undressing Religion: Commitment and Conversion from. Cross-Cultural Perspective. Linda B. Arthur. ed. New York: New York University Press, 2001. 224 pp.
Architecting a cross-disciplinary thesaurus for the semantic web

An environmental health science thesaurus is needed to facilitate Semantic Web operations and aid with problem solving in this important cross-domain area. This paper demonstrates the need for an environmental health science thesaurus and reviews metadata generation research that highlights the importance of subject metadata. A conceptual design for building a cross-disciplinary metathesaurus using shared ontologies and other Semantic Web technologies is presented. The design emphasizes a dynamic, distributed approach to thesaurus construction, and builds on Semantic Web developments, especially the integration of multiple ontologies. The paper concludes by identifying candidate terminological sources and identifying a major challenge.
Structural Validity of the WISC-III for a National Sample of Native American Students

Test bias research with Native American participants is uncommon, although individual tests of intelligence are often used with Native American students to determine eligibility for special education services. Only two studies with minimally adequate sample sizes have addressed the structural validity of major tests of intelligence in Native American populations. It is unfortunate that both used an obsolete test and included students from only two tribes. This study used confirmatory factor analyses to examine the structure of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children—Third Edition (WISC-III) among 344 Native American students representing 12 Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) Nations attending BIA schools in 11 states. Results indicated that Wechsler's four-factor oblique model exhibited the best overall statistical fit. Thus, the underlying factor structure of the WISC-III with a national sample of Native Americans was similar to that found in the normative sample. Implications for school psychologists a...
Ultraviolet sunscreens in Gymnodinium sanguineum (dinophyceae): mycosporine-like amino acids protect against inhibition of photosynthesis

Marine phytoplankton are sensitive to inhibition of photosynthesis by solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation, although sensitivity varies, depending on the growth environment. A mechanism suggested to increase resistance to UV inhibition is the accumulation of UV-absorbing compounds, such as the mycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs) found in many marine organisms. However, the effectiveness of these compounds as direct optical screens in microorganisms has remained unclear. The red-tide dinoflagellate Gymnodinium sanguineum Hirasaka accumulates about 14-fold more MAAs (per unit of chlorophyll) in high (76 W·m−2) than in low (15 W·m−2) growth irradiance. Biological weighting functions were estimated for UV inhibition of photosynthesis and showed that the high-light-grown cultures have lower sensitivity to UV radiation at wavelengths strongly absorbed by the MAAs. The time course of photosynthesis during exposure to UV radiation was measured using pulsed amplitude modulated (PAM) fluorometry and displayed a steady-state level after 15 min of exposure, indicating active repair of damage to the photosynthetic apparatus. Repair was blocked in the presence of the antibiotic streptomycin, yet high-light G. sanguineum remained less sensitive to UV radiation than did low-light cultures. These experiments show that MAAs act as spectrally specific UV sunscreens in phytoplankton.
Basic Hemodynamic Changes Produced by Aortic Coarctation of Different Degrees

Basic hemodynamic studies on experimental coarctation of the aorta just beyond the left subclavian artery have revealed that hitherto unsuspected physical and physiologic factors are involved in creation of hypertension above a coarctation and in changes of pressure pulses below such a lesion. The effects are by no means explained by an increased resistance at the coarctation, as is generally believed. This communication analyzes the roles that changes in capacity and distensibility of the aortic compression chamber and increase in systolic discharge of the left ventricle play in the production of aortic hypertension, and discusses the physiologic compensations in blood flow by which an adequate return to the right heart is maintained despite extreme reduction in flow through the inferior cava. This communication also deals with the ways in which the pressure relations in the lower aorta and femoral artery are altered from the normal, emphasizing the relative shares that damping of the pulse wave and reduced input into the lower aorta play with different degrees of coarctation. The changing characteristics of the murmurs with progressive aortic constriction are also analyzed. The conclusion is reached that all the dynamic changes found in experimental and human coarctation are adequately explained without the assumption of accessory vasoconstriction through reflex or humoral agencies.
Prostate cancer screening perceptions, knowledge and behaviors among African American men: focus group findings

The purpose of the study was to explore, using focus groups, the knowledge, perceptions, attitudes, and behavior of African American men concerning prostate cancer and screening for the disease using the prostate specific antigen and the digital rectal examination. Twelve focus groups (n=104) were conducted among African American men 40 years of age and older, residing in three counties in the metropolitan area of Baltimore, Maryland. The results of the study show various barriers to screening among the target population, which include limited knowledge about the disease, lack of access to screening services, embarrassment and fear of a positive diagnosis. Additional barriers reported were distrust of medical professionals and the government, reluctance to talk about sex-related health problems, complacency about the possibility of having the disease, and belief that prostate cancer is related to sexual behavior. Positive beliefs, hope, and familiarity with the disease were enabling factors for prostate cancer screening. The focus groups served to open doors to communities from the research and medicine world, and heightened awareness of prostate cancer.
Sovereign Defaults the Role of Volatility

While the relationship between volatility and credit risk is central to much of the literature on finance and banking, it has been largely neglected in empirical macro studies on sovereign defaults. This paper presents new econometric estimates for a panel of 25 emerging market countries over 1970-2001, breaking down aggregate volatility into its external and domestic policy components. We find that countries with historically higher macroeconomic volatility are more prone to default, and particularly so if part of this volatility is policy-induced. Reducing policy volatility thus appears to be key to improving a country`s credit standing.
The Black College and the Quest for Educational Opportunity

As remnants of a period in America’s past that some would like pretend did not exist, Black colleges have frequently been devalued and misconstrued. In a time when affirmative action programs are constantly being questioned, these institutions continue to be accused of promoting segregation. However, those who make such claims do so in direct opposition to the history that led to the development of these institutions. Although it is not often discussed, Black colleges have a long-standing tradition of preparing their students for economic, political, and social success. The purpose of this article is to provide an accurate historical and contemporary view of these institutions. Much can be learned from these institutions which have creatively combined academic instruction, cultural edification, and social uplift to generate a program that has been successfully preparing students for more than 100 years.
Lifting-Line Analysis for Twisted Wings and Washout-Optimized Wings

A more practical form of the analytical solution for the effects of geometric and aerodynamic twist (washout) on the low-Mach-number performance of a finite wing of arbitrary planform is presented. This infinite series solution is based on Prandtl's classical lifting-line theory and the Fourier coefficients are presented in a form that only depends on wing geometry
Ocular dominance in kitten cortex: induced changes of single cells while they are recorded.

We have monitored extracellularly individual neurons in the striate cortex of 4-week-old unparalyzed kittens with the aim of changing the ocular dominance of these cells during recording. To do this, we elicited conjugate eye movements using a bipolar stimulating electrode positioned in the internal medullary lamina (IML) of the thalamus. During electrical stimulation of this region, one eye was occluded and the other was visually activated with optimal stimuli. Receptive fields were studied subjectively and objectively and relative response strengths were assessed. Of 42 cells studied in detail, 62% underwent changes in ocular dominance following conditioning periods of, generally, 15–20 min. Control experiments suggest that this plasticity is: agerelated; requires both visual stimulation and activation of pathways associated with eye movement; and does not appear to be caused solely by increased arousal levels.
A comprehensive method for synthesis of UWB arrays

A comprehensive synthesis method for ultra-wideband arrays, taking into consideration array total pattern, phase of the total radiated field, element field, element input impedance, and inter-element mutual coupling, is presented. Using the proposed method, we can achieve a desired total radiation pattern, while compensating for frequency variations of the element radiation characteristics and the inter-element mutual coupling.
The determinants of GCD matrices

Abstract Let S = {x1, x2, …, xn} be an ordered set of distinct positive integers and [S] the GCD matrix defined on S. The value of the determinant of [S] is obtained. It is shown that det[S] = ϕ(x1)ϕ(x2)⋯ϕ(xn iff S is factor closed.
Assay of Δ1-piperideine-2-carboxylate and synthesis of l-[14C]pipecolate from dl-[14C]pipecolate

Abstract Four assay methods were tested for the measurement of Δ1-piperideine-2-carboxylate, a proposed alicyclic ketimino acid intermediate in the pathway of lysine metabolism to l -pipecolate, and the product of d -amino acid oxidase on d -pipecolate. The method using Δ1-piperideine-2-carboxylate reductase from Pseudomonas putida was found to be most sensitive and specific. Measurement of Δ1-piperideine-2-carboxylate by reduction with NaBH4 and ninhydrin assay of the resultant pipecolate, by direct acidic ninhydrin assay, and by o-aminobenz-aldehyde assay were less desirable because of lower sensitivity and specificity. Two synthetic methods for preparing l -[14C]pipecolate from the racemic dl -[14C]pipecolate were investigated. Incubation of dl -[14C]pipecolate with a combination of d -amino acid oxidase and Δ1-piperideine-2-carboxylate reductase or d -amino acid oxidase and NaBH4 totally inverted the d -isomer to the l -isomer, with Δ 1 -[ 14 C]piperideine-2-carboxylate as an intermediate in each cycle of interconversion. No purification except desalting through a Dowex 50 (H+) column was necessary in order to recover l -[14C]pipecolate in pure form. The yield was 95–97% compared to
Clinically Significant Kluyvera Infections

To determine the clinical significance of Kluyvera isolates at our institution, we retrospectively analyzed clinical microbiology data from January 1999 to September 2003. We identified 11 isolates classified as Kluyvera ascorbata, 7 of which were considered clinically significant pathogens: 3 cases represented urinary tract infections; 2, bacteremia; 1, a soft tissue infection of the finger; and 1, acute appendicitis with a subsequent intra-abdominal abscess. The age distribution of patients was wide, ranging from 2 months to 73 years. Antimicrobial susceptibility studies of the clinically significant and non–clinically significant Kluyvera isolates showed susceptibility patterns similar to those reported in the medical literature, namely trends of resistance to ampicillin and first- and second-generation cephalosporins. Of the 4 non–clinically significant isolates in our study, 1 was resistant to ciprofloxacin, a finding reported in only 1 other isolate of Kluyvera in the medical literature. Patient outcome after treatment with third-generation cephalosporins and aminoglycosides in the 7 clinically significant cases was good, with no long-term sequelae. The potential virulence of K ascorbata highlights the need for heightened scrutiny of its antimicrobial susceptibility patterns for adequate clinical treatment.
The influence of ephemeral processes on pyroclastic sedimentation in a rift-basin, volcaniclastic-alluvial sequence, Española basin, New Mexico

Abstract The Plio-Pleistocene Puye Formation, north-central New Mexico, is a coarse-grained conglomeratic wedge of primary and reworked volcanic deposits that prograded eastward into an actively aggrading floodbasin of the central Rio Grande rift. This alluvial system grew in response to the degradation of dacitic and rhyolitic lava domes in the northeastern part of the Jemez Mountains volcanic field. Analysis of Puye deposits shows that fan sedimentation was governed by the complex interaction of explosive volcanism, rift-basin tectonics, and the highly variable localized ephemeral processes common to arid-region alluvial systems. Preserved in this well exposed sequence are complex associations between primary pyroclastic facies related to explosive eruptions from lava domes, and reworked tuffs that record the rapid emplacement of poorly consolidated pumice and ash. The sporadic availability of water in this semi-arid region, and the episodic flood frequency and runoff that accompanied individual eruptions, largely controlled Puye facies characteristics. Important among the combined influences of explosive eruptions and ephemeral processes were: (1) fluvial transport and reworking of pumice sequences, (2) remobilization of loosely consolidated volcanic talus and tuffs by mass flow, and (3) marked downslope changes in mass-flow deposits and fallout tephra emplaced into lakes.
Breeding behavior of resistance to green peach aphid in tuber-bearing Solanum germplasm

Fifty-seven tuber-bearingSolanum progenies including species and interspecific hybrid derivatives were evaluated for resistance to green peach aphid (GPA),Myzus persicae (Sulzer), using an excised leaflet test. The progenies segregated for resistance and most contained some highly resistant clones. Resistance appeared to be partially dominant and genotype-environment interaction was low. Heritability estimates of 50–60 percent were obtained from both diploid and tetraploid populations.
Intracellular proteases during sporulation and enterotoxin formation by Clostridium perfringens type A

Intracellular proteolytic activity was detected in cell-free extracts ofClostridium perfringens NCTC 10239 and NCTC 8798. The kinetics of protease, enterotoxin, and spore formation as well as growth of the wild type at elevated temperature and the use of sporulation mutants indicated that most protease activity was related to sporulation. Intracellular protease activity was inhibited by a mixture of tetrasodium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid and phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride; this indicated the presence of an alkaline serine protease and a neutral metallo-protease. Stage 0 sporulation mutants produced only metallo-sensitive proteases; this indicated that only the serine protease was sporulation-specific.
Enhancing the electron mobility of SrTiO3 with strain

We demonstrate, using high-mobility SrTiO3 thin films grown by molecular beam epitaxy, that stress has a pronounced influence on the electron mobility in this prototype complex oxide. Moderate strains result in more than 300% increases in the electron mobilities with values exceeding 120 000 cm2/V s and no apparent saturation in the mobility gains. The results point to a range of opportunities to tailor high-mobility oxide heterostructure properties and open up ways to explore oxide physics.
Frequency dependence of the dissociation of polyatomic molecules by radiation

Abstract A procedure is described for calculating the dependence of the collisionless dissociation probability of a polyatomic molecule on the frequency of the laser pulse impinging upon it. Sample calculations performed on a simple molecular model show how coherent multiphoton transitions in the vibrational excitation spectrum can be observed in the curve of dissociation probability versus laser frequency.
Angular Distribution of Alpha Particles Emitted by Oriented Np 237 Nuclei

${\mathrm{Np}}^{237}$ nuclei were aligned through the electric quadrupole and magnetic hyperfine couplings in Np${\mathrm{O}}_{2}$Rbz${(\mathrm{N}{\mathrm{O}}_{3})}_{3}$, cooled to 0.2-4.2\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K. A complete experiment, with rotatable monocrystalline sample, solid-state counter, thermometer, and goniometer, was enclosed in a copper container filled with ${\mathrm{He}}^{3}$ gas and thermally attached to \textonehalf{} mole of paramagnetic salt which could be cooled magnetically. The measured temperature dependence of the $\ensuremath{\alpha}$-particle anisotropy gives $Al0$, $Pg0$ for the signs of the hyperfine coupling constants in Np${\mathrm{O}}_{2}^{++}$. The $\ensuremath{\alpha}$ particles were observed to be emitted preferentially along the direction of the nuclear angular momentum vector. The results are consistent with $P\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\pi}$ bonding in the Np${\mathrm{O}}_{2}^{++}$ ion and with Hill and Wheeler's prediction of the role of barrier penetration in $\ensuremath{\alpha}$ emission from nonspherical nuclei.
Isothermal Oxidation of Ta2AlC in Air

The oxidation behavior, in air, of bulk polycrystalline Ta2AlC samples was studied in the 600°–900°C temperature range. A protective, essentially X-ray amorphous, oxide layer—which does not appear to be resistant to thermal cycling—forms at 600°C. This layer is comprised of Ta, Al, and O. At 700°C and above, it is compositionally quite uniform, but porous and highly cracked. No phase separation was observed at the micrometer scale. The oxide layers consisted of the crystalline phases, Ta2O5 and TaAlO4, and an X-ray amorphous phase. In the 700°–900°C temperature range, the oxidation kinetics were found to be linear.
Intraoperative Gamma Probe Localization of Parathyroid Adenomas

Objectives/hypothesis In an effort to reduce operative time, improve diagnostic accuracy, and decrease perioperative morbidity, we combined preoperative technetium Tc 99m-sestamibi localization with the use of the gamma probe intraoperatively. This report examines our experience with the gamma probe for rapid intraoperative localization of parathyroid adenomas. Study design A retrospective chart review was performed to identify all patients who underwent parathyroid exploration with the aid of the gamma probe at Lenox Hill Hospital (New York, NY). Methods Charts were reviewed for operative details, radiological findings, and pathological diagnoses. Results Between November 1, 1998, and June 30, 2000, 35 parathyroid explorations were performed with the aid of the gamma probe. The preoperative localization study was accurate in 34 of 35 cases. The gamma probe successfully identified the parathyroid adenoma in 33 of 35 cases. There were two false-positive cases in which the gamma probe mistakenly identified a thyroid adenoma rather than a parathyroid adenoma. In 11 of 35 cases, the gamma probe was judged essential for rapid localization of the parathyroid adenoma. These cases included patients with multiple or ectopic adenomas and patients who had previous parathyroid surgery. Average operative time to remove parathyroid disease was 80 minutes (range, 45-140 min), which included 20 to 40 minutes waiting for frozen-section results. All patients became normocalcemic, and there were no major complications in this series. Conclusion The gamma probe is a useful tool that complements a well-performed localization study. It is most useful in patients who have multiple or ectopic adenomas or have had prior parathyroid surgery.
Generating fibre orientation maps in human heart models using Poisson interpolation.

Smoothly varying muscle fibre orientations in the heart are critical to its electrical and mechanical function. From detailed histological studies and diffusion tensor imaging, we now know that fibre orientations in humans vary gradually from approximately − 70° in the outer wall to +80° in the inner wall. However, the creation of fibre orientation maps for computational analyses remains one of the most challenging problems in cardiac electrophysiology and cardiac mechanics. Here, we show that Poisson interpolation generates smoothly varying vector fields that satisfy a set of user-defined constraints in arbitrary domains. Specifically, we enforce the Poisson interpolation in the weak sense using a standard linear finite element algorithm for scalar-valued second-order boundary value problems and introduce the feature to be interpolated as a global unknown. User-defined constraints are then simply enforced in the strong sense as Dirichlet boundary conditions. We demonstrate that the proposed concept is ca...
Pemphigus vulgaris in siblings: HLA-DR4 and HLA-DQw3 and susceptibility to pemphigus.

Background: The association of pemphigus vulgaris with the HLA serotypes, DR4 and DRw6, and with the DQ-β chain alleles, DQwl and DQw3, suggests that there is a genetic predisposition to this disease. However, familial cases of pemphigus vulgaris are exceedingly rare. Objective: We studied two siblings with pemphigus vulgaris and three unaffected family members to determine whether an HLA allele was associated with the development of pernphigus vulgaris in this family. Methods: We utilized restriction fragment length polymorphism methods using the HLA-ADβ1, HLA-DQα, and HLA-DWβ1 genes as cDNA probes. Results: We found that the affected siblings share the haplotype HLA-DR4 and the DQw.3.2 allele. Conclusion: Our findings of gene sharing among siblings with pemphigus vulgaris lend support to previous studies of unrelated Caucasian patients, which implicated DQw3 allele polymorphisms in conferring susceptibility to pemphigus.
Mathematical methods of optimization for multi-objective transportation systems

Abstract Transportation systems have multi-objective functions and there are multi-factor decision situations. A general mathematical optimization model for such systems is developed which has broad applications for the planning, system design and evaluation of many transportation systems. Three types of solution techniques are discussed. For multi-objective linear programs, a solution is obtained which satisfies the decision maker's preferences and optimization from the decision maker's point of view is considered. A goal programming solution technique is given when goals for the system can be defined. If this is not possible, an overall utility function is defined on the various objective functions and a concept of additive utilities is explored and a parametric programming solution is given.
Lazy lists in C

Languages that support lazy evaluation allow computations with "infinite" data structures (lazy lists); C++ is not among these languages. Using an idiom of generic programming in C++, template metaprogramming, this paper shows how to provide lazy lists nevertheless.
Automated calibration of display characteristics (ACDC) for head-mounted displays and arbitrary surfaces

In this document we present a method for calibrating head-mounted displays and other display surfaces using an automated, low-cost camera system. A unique aspect of this method is that the calibration of geometric distortions, field of view, and chromatic aberration are achieved without the need for a priori knowledge of the display system's intrinsic parameters. This method operates by capturing and storing the pixel space locations of a series of real world control points. These control points are then used as ground truth references by which virtual space transformations can be automatically generated for a display system.
RECENT DEVELOPMENTS IN X‐RAY CONTACT MICROSCOPY

Contact imaging was briefly reviewed two years ago [29.1]. Important developments since then have occurred in two main areas. New submicrosecond flash soft x-ray sources have provided the first suboptical images of a living cell; and improved techniques of specimen preparation are yielding higher quality images of biological material than were previously obtainable. We will give examples from both these areas.
Instability in Transformer Banks

This paper considers the instability which sometimes occurs in banks of transformers supplying a capacity load when certain harmonics in the primary current are suppressed, either by the type of transformer connections or by a resonant circuit in series with the primary of the transformer, and the similarity between the several unstable circuits is pointed out. Curves showing the triple-frequency voltage distortion as a function of the capacity load have been included for two of the unstable circuits. For one case, oscillograms taken during the instablity are shown. An explanation, substantiated by actual analyses, has been brought forward for the simplest unstable circuit, consisting of three branches connected in Y across a three-phase line with balanced, sinusoidal line voltages, with the neutral unconnected, each branch of the Y consisting of an iron-cored reactance in parallel with a capacity. This explanation is extended to the other cases, two with experimental evidence as justification, and the third by analogy only.
The macrophage foam cell as a target for therapeutic intervention

Specialized functions of macrophages have evolved to protect the body from infection. However, the same mechanisms that enable phagocytosis of pathogens and activation of leukocytes also permit the uptake of lipoproteins and release of reactive oxygen species and immune mediators that collectively contribute to atherosclerosis. New approaches to inhibit lipid accumulation in macrophage foam cells and reduce inflammatory responses may be of therapeutic value in preventing coronary artery disease.
DIVERSIFICATION AS REAL OPTIONS AND THE IMPLICATIONS ON FIRM-SPECIFIC RISK AND PERFORMANCE

ABSTRACT The management literature posits that firms can create value through diversification. In contrast, the established finance literature concludes that diversified firms destroy value. This paper suggests a way to reconcile these two warring camps by articulating a new theory of the way in which diversification can add value not by increasing performance, but by reducing risk in ways mat investors cannot replicate. Specifically, diversification, understood dynamically, provides a way for companies competing in especially turbulent industries to hedge the competitive risk attendant to “convergence” phenomena. That is, in industries where the optimal operating scope of a firm is in question because the promise of convergence cannot be exploited using market-mediating mechanisms, firms will “over diversify” as a hedge against uncertain future reconfigurations of industry boundaries. In other words, these firms diversify as a way to create “real options” on future integration. These options create a for...
The effect of combined deendothelialization and hypercholesterolemia on some arterial lysosomal and glycolytic enzymes and lactate in rabbits

Abstract In eight New Zealand white male rabbits the abdominal aorta and one iliofemoral artery was balloon deendothelialized (group A). After 2 weeks they were kept for 6 weeks on a high cholesterol diet together with eight unoperated rabbits (group B). Eight more rabbits were kept on a commercial diet only (group C). The degree of atherosclerosis was much higher in the deendothelialized Group A vessels than in the uninjured group B vessels. The activity of lactate dehydrogenase and of the rate-limiting glycolytic pyruvate kinase was significantly increased and the activity of lipoamide dehydrogenase decreased in the group A aortas. In the iliofemoral arteries a similar but statistically insignificant tendency was detected. There was no significant difference, however, in aortic lactate between the three groups. Thus, local hypoxia did not significantly contribute to the high degree of atherosclerosis in the group A animals in spite of the enzyme activity differences. Previous experience of the authors, using arterial microcathode p O 2 measurements, indicates that following deendothelialization an adaptive proliferation of nutrient vessels and increased arterial oxygenation takes place. The average activity of the lysosomal N -acetyl-β-glucosaminidase was five times and that of β-glucuronidase, seven times higher in the Group A than Group B aortas; in the iliofemoral arteries the differences were even larger. The huge elevation of these hydrolases, which are involved in glycosaminoglycan catabolism, provides indirect indication that accumulation of glycosaminoglycans and possible their ability to form complexes with apoB-containing lipoproteins played a major role in the much increased degree of atherosclerotic lesions in the Group A rabbits.
Investigation of turbulent flows via pseudo flow visualization part II: Lobed mixer

Abstract Multipoint, single-component hot-wire anemometer measurements obtained with a rake of probes downstream of a lobed mixer are examined using a pseudo flow visualization (PFV) technique. PFV is a visualization procedure that manipulates data obtained from an array of probes to create a graphical representation of the instantaneous velocity components of a flow field. The indicator function was employed to identify the frequency content of each velocity-time trace, giving insight into the analysis of the visualizations. From this application, shedding frequencies of the large-scale structures were identified to range from 200–700 Hz, averaging around 550 Hz. In general, these results are comparable with streamwise velocity spectra obtained from the same flow field locations. Mean streamwise velocity and turbulence intensity profiles reveal that the turbulence intensity increases substantially at the expense of the mean shear, targeting the region of increased mixing to occur between z l a = 3.9 and 5.2 downstream of the trailing edge of the mixer. The ruffle-shaped shear layer is further warped by the secondary velocities in the region where the mean momentum flow emanates from the lobe troughs. This evolution of the shear layer continues until it collapses onto itself, resulting in a burst of turbulent energy that paves the path for turbulence-dominated mixing. The validity of these techniques was successfully verified in the more familiar and fundamental flow field of the near-field axisymmetric jet mixing layer, as described in Part I of this investigation, before they were applied to the flow field downstream of the lobed mixer.
The Mobility of Aged Ions in Air in Relation to the Nature of Gaseous Ions

The mobility of gaseous ions in air formed by intense x-radiation has been studied by the method of Tyndall and Grindley. The mobility of ions less than 0.08 seconds of age was found to be 2.21 cm/sec per volt/cm for the negative ion and 1.59 cm/sec per volt/cm for the positive ion in agreement with values observed by Loeb and by Tyndall and Grindley. A modification of the apparatus permitted the mobility of ions which had been aged for times up to 1.5 seconds to be studied. In this case a decrease in mobility was observed to values of 2.04 and 1.46 for the negative and positive ions after 1.5 seconds aging. The ionization chamber and source of ionization were the same as those employed by Luhr in recombination measurements. From the theoretical mobility equation of Langevin, the observed decrease in mobility cannot be correlated with the probable increase in ionic mass occurring in recombination measurements under the same conditions. A much larger decrease in mobility is predicted on this basis than is observed in these experiments.
An unusually facile Diels-Alder reaction with novel 6-alkylthio derivatives of 1,2,4-triazine

Abstract Treatment of a series of 6-alkylthio-, 6-alkylsulfinyl- and 6-alkylsulfonyl-1,2,4-triazines with 1-pyrrolidinocyclopentene yields 3,4-cyclopentenopyridines. The observed rates of these cycloaddition reactions (sulfide
Is the changing pattern of colorectal cancer caused by selenium deficiency

An hypothesis is presented to explain the changing pattern of colorectal cancer seen within the United States and other western countries in the last 30 years, the simultaneous increase of right-sided colonic cancer and disappearance of rectal cancer. Review of experimental and epidemiologic data suggests that this change may be due to a new systemic deficiency of the trace element selenium. This deficiency has arisen not just from decreased consumption of selenium in the last 30 years, but also from increased consumption of zinc and fluoride, which may antagonize the effect of selenium.
Co-pigmentation of anthocyanins in plant tissues and its effect on color

Glycosides of the 6 common anthocyanidins all formed co-pigment complexes with flavonoids and other compounds at pH's ranging from 2 to 5. The formation of co-pigment complexes resulted in a bathochromic shift in the visible λmax of the anthocyanins and a large increase in extinction at pH 3 and higher. These complexes apparently formed with both the red flavylium salts and the purple anhydro bases. The increase in extinction at pH's 3 to 5 was attributed to the stabilizing effect co-pigmentation had on the anhydro bases. The degree of co-pigmentation was a function of the concentration of the anthocyanins and the molar ratio of co-pigments to anthocyanins. Co-pigmentation offers an explanation for the infinite color variations that occur in flowers in a pH range where anthocyanins alone are virtually colorless.
Colorectal cancer screening by obstetrician-gynecologists.

Abstract Objective: Our purpose was to evaluate colorectal screening practices among obstetrician-gynecologists. Study Design: Retrospective chart review of patients ≥50 years old, of the Boston University Residency Program in Obstetrics and Gynecology for compliance with guidelines from The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Results: A total of 2038 encounters yielded 557 annual/health maintenance examination. Overall rates of screening were as follows: rectal examination, 43%; guaiac (single), 37%; fecal occult blood testing (×3), 1.6%; flexible sigmoidoscopy, 5.4%; and Papanicolaou test, 98%. Analysis by type of provider demonstrated a significant difference only of the medical student–resident combination offering sigmoidoscopy to 14.3% of patients versus 5.4% for other providers. A significant increase in overall screening since 1996 was demonstrated (P =.014). Among patients returning for care, screening frequency increased significantly only for the rectal examination. Conclusion: Since the publication of Guidelines for Women’s Health Care, by The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists in 1996, there has been an increase in colorectal cancer screening among obstetrician-gynecologists. However, flexible sigmoidoscopy and fecal occult blood testing, the most effective means of achieving mortality reduction, remain underutilized. To fully realize the preventability of colorectal cancers in women, we should apply flexible sigmoidoscopy and fetal occult blood testing with the same vigilance currently given to the Papanicolaou test. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2001;184:1054-6.)
Management of ileus and small-bowel obstruction following benign gynecologic surgery

Abstract Objective To describe practice preferences for the diagnosis and management of ileus and small-bowel obstruction (SBO) following benign gynecologic surgery. Methods A secondary descriptive analysis was performed on data from a multicenter case–control study of patients who underwent gynecologic surgery and subsequently developed ileus or SBO. Information was collected regarding interventions such as type of imaging ordered for diagnosis, diet alterations, antiemetic administration, and need for reoperation. Results In total, 144 cases were identified. Abdominal X-ray was the most common imaging modality, occurring in 54 (37.5%) cases. Sixty-nine (65.1%) of the 106 women who underwent imaging were given definitive radiologic diagnoses of either ileus (50 [72.5%]) or SBO (19 [27.5%]); 57.9% (n = 11) of the SBO diagnoses and 90.0% (n = 45) of the ileus diagnoses were managed conservatively. Eighteen (12.5%) patients underwent reoperation for bowel obstruction. There were no significant differences in rate of reoperation between cases involving the use of single antiemetics and those involving the use of multiple antiemetics (P = 0.18), or between diet statuses on postoperative day 1 (P = 0.08). Conclusion Most study centers initially performed an abdominal X-ray for diagnostic purposes. The majority used a multimodal treatment approach. None of the management options decreased the likelihood of reoperation.
Incorporating Planning and Reasoning into a Self-Motivated, Communicative Agent

Most work on self-motivated agents has focused on acquiring utility-optimizing mappings from states to actions. But such mappings do not allow for explicit, reasoned anticipation and planned achievement of future states and rewards, based on symbolic knowledge about the environment and about the consequences of the agent’s own behavior. In essence, such agents can only behave reflexively, rather than reflectively. Conversely, planning and reasoning have been viewed within AI as geared towards satisfaction of explicitly specified user goals, without consideration of the long-range utility of the planner/reasoner’s choices. We take a step here towards endowing a self-motivated, utility-optimizing agent with reasoning and planning abilities, and show that such an agent benefits both from its knowledge about itself and its environment, and from exploiting opportunities as it goes. Our simulated simple agent can cope with unanticipated environmental events and can communicate with the user or with other agents.
A role for hydrophobicity in a Diels–Alder reaction catalyzed by pyridyl-modified RNA

New classes of RNA enzymes or ribozymes have been obtained by in vitro evolution and selection of RNA molecules. Incorporation of modified nucleotides into the RNA sequence has been proposed to enhance function. DA22 is a modified RNA containing 5-(4-pyridylmethyl) carboxamide uridines, which has been selected for its ability to promote a Diels–Alder cycloaddition reaction. Here, we show that DA_TR96, the most active member of the DA22 RNA sequence family, which was selected with pyridyl-modified nucleotides, accelerates a cycloaddition reaction between anthracene and maleimide derivatives with high turnover. These widely used reactants were not used in the original selection for DA22 and yet here they provide the first demonstration of DA_TR96 as a true multiple-turnover catalyst. In addition, the absence of a structural or essential kinetic role for Cu 2+ , as initially postulated, and nonsequence-specific hydrophobic interactions with the anthracene substrate have led to a reevaluation of the pyridine modification’s role. These findings broaden the catalytic repertoire of the DA22 family of pyridyl-modified RNAs and suggest a key role for the hydrophobic effect in the catalytic mechanism.
Human Papillomavirus Vaccination in Female Pediatric Cancer Survivors

Abstract Study Objective Survivors of childhood malignancy may be at increased risk for HPV infection for biological and cognitive/behavioral reasons. HPV vaccination is currently recommended for females 11-12 years old with catch up vaccination up to age 26 years. The objective of this cross-sectional study was to determine the prevalence of HPV vaccination among female pediatric cancer survivors, age 11-18 years, at Texas Children's Hospital. Study Design, Setting, and Participants A 42-question survey was distributed to parents/guardians of 172 long-term cancer survivors from August-November of 2010. Data were analyzed using frequencies, t-tests, and chi-square analyses. Main Outcome Measures Prevalence of HPV vaccination (intention and completion). Results Sixty-six persons (38%) responded. The median current age of survivors was 14 years. Most were white/non-Hispanic (48%) or white/Hispanic (37%). Seventy-one percent had discussed HPV vaccination with a healthcare provider. The overall rate of HPV vaccination (≥ 1 dose) was 32%, including 5% of those age 11-12 years (n = 1 of 21), 36% of those age 13-17 years (n = 13 of 36), and 78% of those age 18 years (n = 7 of 9). Of those whose children had not been immunized, 36% intended to do so in the future. Factors associated with HPV vaccination included age ≥13 years, report of sexual activity, and report of having discussed HPV vaccination with a healthcare provider. Conclusion The rate of HPV vaccination among female pediatric cancer survivors is not appreciably different than that seen in the general population.