Showing papers by "University of South Carolina published in 1984"

Measuring organizational performance in the absence of objective measures: The case of the privately-held firm and conglomerate business unit

Abstract: Strategic management researchers often encounter problems obtaining objective measures of selected aspects of organizational performance that are reliable and valid. With privately-held firms, such data are frequently unavailable. With conglomerate business units, all or parts of such data are inextricably interwoven with corporate-wide data. This paper examines the usefulness of subjective performance measures, obtained from top management teams, when problems are encountered in obtaining accurate performance data.

The children's depression inventory: a systematic evaluation of psychometric properties.

Abstract: Community Mental Health Center, Yorkville, New YorkThis article presents data from a series of studies designed to determine thepsychometric properties of the Children's Depression Inventory (GDI). A total of294 school children and 269 children who were psychiatric inpatients served assubjects. Reliability studies were conducted with both normal and clinicalpopulations. Good internal consistency was documented, but test-retest data werevariable across populations and test-retest intervals. Validity studies indicate thatthe GDI can distinguish children with general emotional distress from normalschool children. However, differences between GDI scores of depressed (bysymptom checklists from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of MentalDisorders, DSM-1II; American Psychiatric Association, 1980) and nondepressedchildren were not significantly different. There was a good correspondencebetween the GDI and self-report measures of self-concept. Our data suggestedthat the GDI measures a multidimensional construct that overlaps with otherchildhood disorders, particularly anxiety. Findings are reviewed and discussedrelative to data presented by Kovacs, Kazdin, and others. Although the GDI maystill be the best researched instrument available to measure depression from thechild's viewpoint, more work is needed before it can be interpreted withconfidence in clinical and research settings.

Spectral sensitivity of a novel photoreceptive system mediating entrainment of mammalian circadian rhythms.

Abstract: Environmental light cycles are the dominant synchronizers of circadian rhythms in the field, and artificial light cycles and pulses are the major tools used in the laboratory to analyse properties of circadian systems1–4. It is therefore surprising that few studies have analysed the physical parameters of light stimuli that affect circadian rhythms. There have previously been no spectral sensitivity measurements for phase shifting the circadian rhythms of mammals and only two preliminary reports on the wavelength dependence of this response exist3,4. Using the magnitude of phase shift caused by a single 15-min pulse of monochromatic light given 6 h after activity onset, we have now characterized the spectral sensitivity of the photoreceptors responsible for phase shifting the locomotor rhythm of the hamster (Mesocricetus auratus). The sensitivity curve for this response has a maximum near 500 nm and is similar to the absorption spectrum for rhodopsin. Although the spectral sensitivity is consistent with a rhodopsin-based photopigment, two features of the photoreceptive system that mediates entrainment are unusual: the threshold of the response is high, especially for a predominantly rod retina like that of the hamster, and the reciprocal relationship between intensity and duration holds for extremely long durations (up to 45 min). These results suggest that the photoreceptive system mediating entrainment is markedly different from that involved in visual image formation.

Research Thrusts in Small Firm Strategic Planning

Abstract: Viewed historically, strategic planning research in small firms has emerged sporadically rather than in clear research tracks. This paper reviews over 50 planning-related studies from small firm settings. Four major research thrusts are identified from this literature. Key issues and findings associated with each thrust are summarized, and future research guidelines are derived.

Non-enzymatic glycosylation and the chronic complications of diabetes: an overview.

Abstract: Even before the introduction of insulin therapy in 1922, retinopathy, neuropathy and proteinuria had all been described in association with diabetes mellitus. However, as the use of insulin has permitted long-term survival of young diabetic subjects, the full extent of the problems caused by these and other chronic complications (nephropathy, generalized microangiopathy and atherosclerosis) has become more apparent. Diabetes is one of the major causes of visual loss in the developed world; and premature death, now usually due to atherosclerosis or renal failure, is still all too common in the diabetic subject. In the continuing debate about the pathogenesis of diabetic complications, much speculation and controversy has focussed on the possible role of chronic hyperglycaemia. The long-term, evolutionary nature of the complications, the lack of reliable objective indices of glycaemic control, and the inability to achieve normal physiological glycaemic control with subcutaneous insulin therapy are among the factors that have prevented resolution of this basic controversy. Nevertheless, there is an increasing body of evidence, based on both clinical experience with patients [1, 2] and animal model studies [3], which indicates that chronic hyperglycaemia may be the major factor contributing to the long-term complications of diabetes. Detection of the minor haemoglobins, HbAlc and HbAl(a+b+o) [4] and their chemical characterization as non-enzymatically glycosylated derivatives of haemoglobin [5-7], has added new dimensions to the continuing debate on the role of hyperglycaemia in the complications of diabetes. Thus, measurement of glycosylated haemoglobin provides an objective, retrospective index of glycaemic control [8-12]. Serial measurements should provide a truer reflection than previously possible of long-term glycaemic control in prospective studies of the development of diabetic complications. In addition, it has become clear that haemoglobin is not unique, and that non-enzymatic glycosylation is in fact a common post-translational modification of many body proteins. Thus glycosylation results from a direct chemical reaction between glucose and amino groups on protein. The first stable product of the reaction is termed the ketoamine adduct to protein, but, from studies of protein-reducing sugar systems in vitro, the ketoamine is known to undergo further dehydration, rearrangement and cleavage reactions. The final products in vitro are highly crosslinked, insoluble, pigmented and fluorescent carbohydrate-protein polymers, called melanoidins (hence this is termed the browning reaction). Whether these products of the browning reaction are also formed in vivo is not yet known. However, since non-enzymatic glycosylation is enhanced during hyperglycaemia, it is not surprising that there has been much speculation concerning its role, and the role of the subsequent browning reactions in the pathogenesis of the complications of diabetes [13, 14]. The purpose of this article is to review and evaluate the existing evidence in support of this speculation. To this end, it is convenient to consider individual proteins or groups of proteins in turn.

An investigation of user-led system design: rational and political perspectives

Abstract: Cet article etudie une application du concept de conception d'un tel systeme dans une compagnie d'assurance. A travers les methodes de recherche longitudinale, les evenements des processus de developpement sont decrits et interpretes dans 2 voies. La premiere interpretation fait ressortir les objectifs et methodes rationnels dans le developpement. La seconde interpretation de ces memes evenements identifie les schemas politiques. Ces deux perspectives coexistent et se complementent

Hamiltonian results in K1,3‐free graphs

Abstract: There have been a number of results dealing with Hamiltonian properties in powers of graphs. In this paper we show that the square and the total graph of a K1,3-free graph are vertex pancyclic. We then discuss some of the relationships between connectivity and Hamiltonian properties in K1,3-free graphs.

Fault-related rocks: Suggestions for terminology

Abstract: Many traditional terms for fault-related rocks have undergone recent dynamic metamorphism under high-pressure discussions by various groups of specialists. A generally acceptable simplified framework encompassing these and associated structural terms is now needed for many geologic, engineering, and legal purposes. Such a framework is proposed here, focusing on a rate-of-strain versus rate-of-recovery diagram and relating this framework to the products of brittle and ductile deformation along faults.

Quantum Frames of Reference.

Abstract: Frames of reference attached to quantum-mechanical objects of finite mass are considered. A consistent discription of such frames is obtained which resolves a variety of apparent paradoxes associated with such a description. The main result of the present work is a formalism wherein the principle of equivalence is extended to reference frames described by quantum states.

Middle-Range Theory in Archaeology: A Critical Review of Origins and Applications

Abstract: The concept of middle-range theory, arising over three decades ago in sociology, is reviewed. The concept was proposed as an approach to theorizing, urging consolidation of high-order theories with low-order empirical studies. The critical elements in such hierarchies are theories of a middle-range of abstraction. However, most current conceptions of “middle-range theory” in archaeology are far more narrowly conceived. Derived primarily from Binford's work, they continue the New Archaeology's attempt to develop a materialist epistemology for archaeology. In this view, principles of site formation processes are nearly synonymous with “middle-range theory.” The dangers to theory-building of this approach are outlined. Examples of middle-range theory that expand our capacity for explanation of cultural behavior are presented.

The Congruence Perspective of Organization Design: A Conceptual Model and Multivariate Research Approach

Abstract: This paper provides direction for a systematic program of research on a congruence perspective of organization design. A theoretical model of strategic choice is elaborated and serves as an integrating framework from the organization design literature. The model is based on a multivariate approach involving environment, technology, and structure, as well as their congruency. A number of specific research hypotheses are generated, and implications for the development of both descriptive and normative theory are advanced.

Neuronal Organization of the Lateral and Basolateral Amygdaloid Nuclei in the Rat

Abstract: The neuronal organization of the lateral (L) and basolateral (BL) amygdaloid nuclei was studied in the rat by using Golgi techniques. All nuclear subdivisions, which were identified in Nissl and acetylcholinesterase preparations, contain spiny class I neurons and spine-sparse class II neurons. Three of four neurogliaform class III neurons observed were located in the anterior division of BL (BLa). The exact arrangement of class I and class II neurons varies in different portions of L and BL. At the periphery of these nuclei, where L and BL border fiber bundles, major dendrites tend to be oriented parallel to nuclear borders. Many smaller dendritic branches, however, may extend into the adjacent fiber bundles. At most borders between nuclear subdivisions dendritic overlap is minimized by the fact that major dendrites tend to run parallel to subdivisional boundaries. One exception is the junction of BLa with the posterior division of BL (BLp), where unrestricted dendritic overlap of both class I and class II neurons occurs. Within most nuclear subdivisions dendrites of class I and class II neurons ramify freely and exhibit little order. In caudal portions of BLp, however, almost all class I neurons are pyramidal cells with vertically oriented apical dendrites. Dendrites of class II neurons in this region tend to be oriented horizontally, perpendicular to apical dendrites of class I cells. Class II neurons were not evenly distributed in Golgi preparations but were concentrated at the BLa-BLp border, near the boundary between the dorsolateral and ventromedial subdivisions of L and in the dorsal portion of BLp. The latter cells blend with similar spine-sparse neurons contained within the external capsule. Analysis of Nissl preparations reveals that small neurons, which correspond to small class II and class III cells, are sometimes observed in a clustered arrangement.

Spatial pattern in barnacle settlement: day to day changes during the settlement season

Abstract: Spatial pattern of settlement of cyprids of the barnacleBalanus balanoides (L.) was examined from photographs taken every low tide during the first 20 days of the settlement season. The locations of pits and cracks and the bases of detached adults were mapped in order to measure specificity of settlement in relation to surface contour and chemical cues associated with conspecifics. Cyprids were identified as to their date of settlement. Distances to nearest neighbours were computed for newly settling cyprids relative to each other, for newly settling cyprids relative to previously settled cyprids, and for newly settling cyprids relative to newly metamorphosed spat.

Differences by Sex in Support for Nuclear Power

Abstract: One of the most consistent findings reported in the public opinion literature is that uvomen are more opposed to nuclear power than men. This research uses data from two widely cited Harris surveys on nuclear power which were conducted in 1975 and 1976 to test a number of hypotheses based on competing explanations for the sex difference. The results support the position that it is a greater concern about safety which explains uvomen's lesser support for nuclear power. Compared with men, women are found to believe that nuclear plants are less safe and to evaluate a number of problems of nuclear power as more serious, particularly those involving danger to health and human life. These differences are found to account for the sex difference in support for nuclear power both in general and in the respondents' local communities. Public opinion surveys dealing with nuclear energy have consistently noted pronounced sex differences. Women are less supportive, and more opposed and uncertain than men concerning the further development of the technology. Melber et al., who compiled the results from over 100 local, state, and national surveys on the nuclear power issue, reported that the sex differences were "more clear-cut and consistent than those associated with any of the other demographic classifications" (74). In the 27 surveys they examined that were based on U.S. national probability samples, the mean levels of support for nuclear power were 65 percent for men and 46 percent for women, the mean opposition levels were 21 percent for men and 28 percent for women, and the mean levels of unsure

Curvature and Tangential Deflection of Discrete Arcs: A Theory Based on the Commutator of Scatter Matrix Pairs and Its Application to Vertex Detection in Planar Shape Data

Abstract: This paper introduces a new theory for the tangential deflection and curvature of plane discrete curves. Our theory applies to discrete data in either rectangular boundary coordinate or chain coded formats: its rationale is drawn from the statistical and geometric properties associated with the eigenvalue-eigenvector structure of sample covariance matrices. Specifically, we prove that the nonzero entry of the commutator of a piar of scatter matrices constructed from discrete arcs is related to the angle between their eigenspaces. And further, we show that this entry is-in certain limiting cases-also proportional to the analytical curvature of the plane curve from which the discrete data are drawn. These results lend a sound theoretical basis to the notions of discrete curvature and tangential deflection; and moreover, they provide a means for computationally efficient implementation of algorithms which use these ideas in various image processing contexts. As a concrete example, we develop the commutator vertex detection (CVD) algorithm, which identifies the location of vertices in shape data based on excessive cummulative tangential deflection; and we compare its performance to several well established corner detectors that utilize the alternative strategy of finding (approximate) curvature extrema.

Comparing the Sexes on Spatial Abilities: Map-Use Skills

Abstract: Studies by psychologists suggest that males are more proficient than females in performing many types of spatial tasks. There is no information, however, as to whether the results of psychological research are relevant and applicable to geography. This paper summarizes psychologists' views of spatial skills, discusses them from a geographical perspective, and reports the results of five map-use experiments that were analyzed for sex-based differences among participants. Two of the studies, one with fourth-grade students and one with undergraduates, tested the students' ability to use cartographic illustrations as an aid to learning geographic information. The remaining experiments investigated how well male and female children and adults could perform typical map-use tasks such as route planning, symbol identification, visual search and estimation, and right/left orientation. In both sets of studies, the main sex-based differences were found in the younger age groups, where boys' performance was ...

Invertebrate drift: Behavioral experiments with intertidal meiobenthos†

Abstract: Water column drift of benthic invertebrates may be the result of either active migration from the bottom or of erosion by water currents. Recent studies have shown that marine meiobenthos occur regularly in the water column; however, whether this is due to active (behavioral) processes or passive (erosional) processes is not known. A series of experiments were performed that showed meiobenthos do not regularly emerge, suggesting that drift of meiobenthos is due to erosion. The behavior of the animals can, however, influence their susceptibility to suspension. Fauna most active on the sediment surface (primarily harpacticoid copepods) were most susceptible to passive suspension. A multi‐factorial experiment tested the effects of time of day (light vs. dark) and tide (high, low, flow) on number of animals active on the sediment surface. Animals frequenting the sediment surface did so only in the absence of currents and regardless of time of day. Animals began to burrow as soon as flow increased. If they wer...