Showing papers by "University of South Carolina published in 1988"

How the result of a measurement of a component of the spin of a spin- 1/2 particle can turn out to be 100

Abstract: We have found that the usual measuring procedure for preselected and postselected ensembles of quantum systems gives unusual results. Under some natural conditions of weakness of the measurement, its result consistently defines a new kind of value for a quantum variable, which we call the weak value. A description of the measurement of the weak value of a component of a spin for an ensemble of preselected and postselected spin-(1/2 particles is presented.

Probing structure-function relations in heme-containing oxygenases and peroxidases

Abstract: Structural factors that influence functional properties are examined in the case of four heme enzymes: cytochrome P-450, chloroperoxidase, horseradish peroxidase, and secondary amine mono-oxygenase. The identity of the axial ligand, the nature of the heme environment, and the steric accessibility of the heme iron and heme edge combine to play major roles in determining the reactivity of each enzyme. The importance of synthetic porphyrin models in understanding the properties of the protein-free metal center is emphasized. The conclusions described herein have been derived from studies at the interface between biological and inorganic chemistry.

Localization of an ataxia-telangiectasia gene to chromosome 11q22–23

Abstract: Ataxia-telangiectasia (AT) is a human autosomal recessive disorder of childhood1,2 characterized by: (1) progressive cerebellar ataxia with degeneration of Purkinje cells; (2) hypersensitivity of fibroblasts and lymphocytes to ionizing radiation3; (3) a 61-fold and 184-fold increased cancer incidence in white and black patients, respectively4; (4) non-random chromosomal rearrangements in lymphocytes; (5) thymic hypoplasia with cellular and humoral (IgA and IgG2) immunodeficiencies; (6) elevated serum level of alphafetoprotein; (7) premature ageing; and (8) endocrine disorders, such as insulin-resistant diabetes mellitus. A DNA processing or repair protein is the suspected common denominator in this pathology5. Heterozygotes are generally healthy; however, the sensitivity of their cultured cells to ionizing radiation is intermediate between normal individuals and that of affected homozygotes6. Furthermore, heterozygous females are at an increased risk of breast cancer7,8. These findings, when coupled with an estimated carrier frequency of 0.5–5.0%, suggest that (1) as many as one in five women with breast cancer may carry the AT gene7 and that (2) the increased radiation sensitivity of AT heterozygotes may be causing radiation therapists to reduce the doses of radiation used for treating cancer in all patients10. To identify the genetic defect responsible for this multifaceted disorder, and to provide effective carrier detection, we performed a genetic linkage analysis of 31 families with AT-affected members. This has allowed us to localize a gene for AT to chromosomal region 11q22-23.

Planned patterns of strategic behavior and their relationship to business-unit performance†

Abstract: This study examined the moderating role of planning sophistication on the strategy-performance relationship in 97 manufacturing firms representing 60 different industries. Cluster analysis was used to group the firms according to their strategic orientation. Five groups emerged. Significant differences in performance across selected groups were found establishing a ‘baseline’ strategy-performance relationship. Strategic orientations emphasizing product innovation or those incorporating ‘efficiency’ and ‘differentiation’ patterns of strategic behavior were associated with significantly higher performance levels than two other groups. The nature of each firm's planning process was then introduced via a two-way ANOVA procedure to determine if ‘process sophistication’ moderated the strategy-performance ‘baseline’. Level of planning sophistication was found to significantly moderate the previously established strategy-performance baseline.

Lovestyles and Attachment Styles Compared: Their Relations to Each Other and to Various Relationship Characteristics:

Abstract: Two studies were conducted to investigate the relative ability of Hendrick & Hendrick's (1986) measure of Lee's (1973) lovestyles and the Hazan & Shaver (1987) measure of attachment styles to predict concurrent relationship characteristics among unmarried dating couples. Relationship characteristics were assessed by the Davis & Todd (1985) Relationship Rating Form (RRF). Sternberg's (1987) Triangular Love Scale (STLS), and an adaptation of Rahim's (1983) Organizational Conflict Inventory. The RRF and STLS showed substantial convergence, suggesting that the Passion and Commitment scales are equivalent but that the RRF Intimacy and STLS Intimacy are not. Three of the lovestyles - Eros, Agape and Ludus - were consistently related to the couple's reports of relationship characteristics. Eros and Agape were associated with Intimacy, Passion, Commitment and Satisfaction and the use of constructive approaches to conflict. Ludus was negatively associated with the same variables. Mania was positively correlated wi...

A mail survey of physical activity habits as related to measured physical fitness

Abstract: The associations of self-reported measures of physical activity from a mail survey with an objective measure of physical fitness were investigated. Respondents to a health status survey (n = 12,225), conducted in 1982 by the Institute for Aerobics Research in Dallas, TX, formed the population. From this group, males who also had a clinical examination within 60 days of the return of their questionnaire served as subjects. The study subjects (n = 375, mean age = 47.1 years) completed a maximal physical fitness assessment using a modified Balke protocol. The questionnaire included a section of inquiries concerning leisure time physical activity participation in which subjects were asked to quantitatively recall exercise participation for varying periods of time. Reported exercise participation values were converted to estimates of energy expenditure and combined into overall indices of physical activity participation. Multiple regression analyses were used to determine the individual contributions of the physical activity indices in predicting maximal treadmill performance (physical fitness). Significant predictors of physical fitness were age (beta = -0.34), an index of running, walking, and jogging participation (beta = 0.31), and the response to a question on frequency of sweating (beta = 0.35). The multiple correlation coefficient for these variables in predicting physical fitness was 0.65. These results indicate that exercise behavior can be accurately estimated in large populations by using simple questions in a mail survey.

Toward a System for Classifying Business Strategies

Abstract: Porter's (1980) and Abell's (1980) attempts to classify business strategies have several fundamental limitations After discussing the objectives and attributes of “scientific” classification systems, this article presents a new classification scheme, built on the work of Porter and Abell, as a first step toward developing an “optimal” business strategy classification system.

Multinational Corporations vs. Domestic Corporations: International Environmental Factors and Determinants of Capital Structure

Abstract: This paper examines whether or not U.S.-based multinational corporations (MNCs) have different capital structures than U.S. domestic corporations (DCs), and if so, what causes the differences. In explaining the difference between the capital structures of MNCs and DCs, previous studies tended to directly discuss the relationships between international environmental factors (e.g., political risk, foreign exchange risk) and the capital structure. A framework of analysis is proposed in this paper that examines the influence of environmental factors on the firm-related capital structure determinants (e.g., agency costs, bankruptcy costs) that in turn affect the capital structure of the MNC. Among the determinants that are examined, more emphasis is placed on the discussion of agency costs since no previous studies have applied this concept in the international arena. Empirical tests were conducted to investigate whether MNCs are significantly different from DCs regarding agency costs of debt, bankruptcy costs, and capital structure. Contrary to conventional wisdom, the empirical findings show that MNCs do not have lower bankruptcy costs and that they tend to have lower debt ratios than DCs.

Superconductivity at 90 K in the Tl-Ba-Cu-O system.

Abstract: Stable and reproducible superconductivity has been unambiguously observed in a new Tl-Ba-Cu-O system containing no group-IIIB elements. Resistance in these rare-earth--free oxides starts to drop sharply above 90 K and reaches zero at 81 K. Meissner flux expulsion and diamagnetic shielding show bulk superconductivity. Further substitutions of elements for this system may lead to even higher-temperature superconductors.

Effects of subpixel image restoration on digital correlation error estimates

Abstract: The results of initial studies to determine the key parameters influencing the performance of a computer-based measurement system are presented. The system components were modeled, and a representative intensity pattern was chosen and deformed by known amounts. The effect of varying different model parameters in the model was analyzed numerically. The most significant parameters were found to be: (1) the number of quantization levels in the digitization process, (2) the ratio of the frequency of the signal to the frequency of the sampling, and (3) the form of the intensity interpolation function.

Attitude toward the Ad: An Assessment of Diverse Measurement Indices under Different Processing “Sets”:

Abstract: The authors examine two concerns that have emerged in research involving the attitude toward the ad (Aad) construct. The first pertains to conceptualization and measurement. Drawing on recent socia...

Interleukin-1 Inhibits Leydig Cell Steroidogenesis in Primary Culture

Abstract: Inflammation and infection induce an acute phase response. The response is characterized by fever and production of interleukin-1 (IL-1). In the present study we evaluated the effects of interleukin-1 on Leydig cell function in primary culture. hCG-stimulated testosterone formation was markedly reduced by IL-1, with an ED50 of 1 U/ml. Basal testosterone production was slightly enhanced in the presence of low concentrations of IL-1, while high concentrations of IL-1 inhibited testosterone formation. Significant inhibition of hCG-stimulated testosterone formation was noted as early as 8 h after the addition of IL-1. IL-1 also inhibited hCG-stimulated cAMP formation, as well as 8-bromo-cAMP- and forskolin-stimulated testosterone synthesis. Furthermore, LH binding to Leydig cells was reduced by human IL-1. The inhibitory effects of IL-1 were reversed only partially by the addition of a cyclooxygenase inhibitor, indomethacin (0.1 mM), even though prostaglandin E2 formation was completely blocked. This indicates that the observed effects of IL-1 are not completely mediated by increased PGE2 formation. The present study suggests that IL-1 is a potent modulator of Leydig cell steroidogenesis. Decreased testosterone formation may modulate the immune response and contribute to the catabolic changes occurring during infection.

Cardiovascular Effects of Human-Pet Dog Interactions

Abstract: Recent research on human-dog interactions showed that talking to and petting a dog are accompanied by lower blood pressure (BP) in the person than human conversation. To clarify whether cognition, conditioning, or tactual contact exerted the major influence in this so-called “pet effect,” 60 male and female undergraduates with either positive or neutral attitudes toward dogs interacted with a dog tactually, verbally, and visually while BP and heart rate were recorded automatically. Results revealed that (a) subjects' BP levels were lowest during dog petting, higher while talking to the dog, and highest while talking to the experimenter and (b) subjects' heart rates were lower while talking or touching the dog and higher while both touching and talking to the dog. Touch appeared to be major component of the pet effect, while cognitive factors contributed to a lesser degree. Implications for coping with hypertension are discussed, and suggestions for futher research are stated.

Language With A Purpose: Using Authentic Materials in the Foreign Language Classroom

Abstract: In order for students to learn to communicate effectively in a foreign language, they must experience the language as it is used for real communication by native speakers. Inclusion of authentic materials in the instructional process addresses this need. In this article the authors suggest criteria by which resources can be selected and activities developed. Examples of exercises based on video, audio, and print media materials in French and Spanish are provided, in addition to a selected bibliography on the topic.

The Evolving Definition of Physical Fitness.

Abstract: Traditional defintions of physical fitness have employed language that, when operationalized, encompasses a broad range of functional capacities. However, these definitions have not referred directly to the health outcomes of physical activity. The current body of knowledge in exercise science and society's view of physical fitness indicate that a definition of physical fitness should focus on the health related aspects of fitness. It is proposed that the physical education profession's primary concern should be for promotion of health related physical fitness, defined as a state characterized by (a) an ability to perform daily activities with vigor, and (b) demonstration of traits and capacities that are associated with low risk of premature development of the hypokinetic diseases (i.e., those associated with physical inactivity). In addition, physical fitness and motor performance are terms that may have utility for professional physical educators, if consensus can be built around precise literal and op...

Extracting environmental information from planktonic foraminiferal δ 13 C data

Abstract: The oxygen isotopic composition of foraminiferal shell calcite varies as a function of temperature and the 18O/16O ratio of seawater during calcification. This relationship has provided the basis for numerous studies of past climate changes, continental glaciation and changes in oceanic current systems1. In contrast, the variables affecting the δ13C composition of foraminiferal calcite are poorly understood. It has been proposed that the δ13 C value of planktonic foraminifera is a function of the 13C/12C ratio of sea water Σ CO2 and of 'vital effects' related to metabolic processes such as respiration and symbiont photosynthesis1,2. In this paper we demonstrate that the δ13C value of Orbulina universa shell calcite is a function of symbiont photosynthetic activity and irradiance levels based on laboratory experiments with living specimens. Environmental temperature has no significant effect on the δ13C value, whereas the δ18O value of the shell varies as a function of temperature but is independent of symbiont photosynthesis. The ability to relate δ13C data with the environmental parameter of light may provide new insights into dynamic processes occurring in palaeooceanic euphotic zones.

Undecidability of CA classification schemes

Abstract: Abstra ct. Stephen wolfram int roduced the use of cellula r au tom ata. as mod els of complex sys tems and proposed a clas sification of th ese automata based on th eir st a t ist ical ly observed behavior. We invest igate various properti es of these classes; in part icular, we as k wheth er certain prop erties are effective, and we obtain several somewhat surpri sing result s. For examp le, we show th at it is undecidable wheth er all th e fini te configu rations of a given cellular automaton eventually become qu iescent. Consequently, it is undecidable to which class a given cellula r automaton belongs, even when choosing only between the two simp lest classes.

The universality of a contempt expression: A replication

Abstract: Two experiments replicated Ekman and Friesen's finding of an expression that signals contempt across cultures. The subjects, from West Sumatra, Indonesia, were members of a culture that differs in a number of ways from Western cultures. In one experiment the subjects judged photographs of Japanese and American faces, both males and females, which showed many different emotions. There was very high agreement about which expressions signaled contempt in preference to anger, disgust, happiness, sadness, fear, or surprise. In a second experiment the Indonesian subjects judged expressions shown by members of their own culture, and again there was very high agreement about which expression signals contempt.

Geometric quantum phase and angles

Abstract: The geometric phase in quantum mechanics is formulated for charged particles in a gauge-invariant, geometric manner. It is then extended to an evolution resulting from a sequence of measurements as in the work of Pancharatnam and Aharonov and Vardi. Its close connection to the Feynman formulation of quantum mechanics is pointed out. The geometric angles, which are generalizations of the classical, adiabatic angles introduced by Hannay and the quantum, adiabatic angles introduced by Anandan and Stodolsky in their group-theoretic treatment of Berry's phase, are studied in quantum and classical physics. The geometric phase for a quantum spin in a magnetic field due to a second particle is obtained using the quantum reference frame defined by the latter. The question of whether the geometric phase and angles are local or nonlocal and their relationship to the electromagnetic and gravitational phases are also discussed.

A review of the cretaceous formations in the arabian peninsula and gulf: part iii. upper cretaceous (aruma group) stratigraphy and paleogeography

Abstract: A historical review of the development of the stratigraphy of Upper Cretaceous rocks in the Arabian Peninsula and Gulf provides a partial explanation for many of the different formational names. A type section is presented for the United Arab Emirates, and lithofacies variations within the region are related to it. In addition to the simple model of migration of predominantly shallow-water facies belts across a shelf: the Upper Cretaceous also contains deep-water facies due to the onset of plate-margin tectonic activity, which resulted in the emplacement of the Hawasina complex and the Semail ophiolites of Oman.

The Location of Foreign Direct Investment in the United States: Patterns and Determinants

Abstract: The internationalization of the U.S. economy over the past fifteen years has had a discernible impact on regional development. This paper is an analysis of the regional effects of inward foreign direct investment, a particularly dynamic component of the internationalization process. Foreign direct investment dispersed over time, with the locations of foreign operations becoming more like those of U.S. firms. Regression results demonstrate that the location of foreign-owned property, plant, and equipment can be explained by variables representing: energy costs, infrastructure/transportation, and labor climate.

The Rashomon Effect: When Ethnographers Disagree

Abstract: Disagreements between ethnographers often arise because of the particular circumstances of field-work or attributes of the ethnographers. A positivist search for truth versus error may be less fruitful than a constructionist examination of the research itself. This article suggests a conceptual framework for such a constructionist approach.

Comment on ‘‘Proposed Aharonov-Casher effect: Another example of an Aharonov-Bohm effect arising from a classical lag’’

Abstract: A classical model of a neutron as a current loop is examined. The importance of the mechanical structure (which was overlooked by Boyer) for the dynamical equations is elaborated. It is shown that the current loop has the same behavior in an external static electric field as was obtained for the neutron by Aharonov and Casher from the Dirac equation.

Integer linear programming neural networks for job-shop scheduling

Abstract: The authors present an integer linear programming neural network (ILPNN) based on a modified Tank and Hopfield neural network model to solve job-shop scheduling, an NP-complete constraint satisfaction problem. The constraints of the job-shop problem are formulated as a set of integer linear equations. The cost function for minimization is the total starting times of all jobs subject to precedence constraints. In the authors' approach, the set of integer linear equations is solved by an iterative linear programming with integer adjustments (ILPIA) technique, without a branch-and-bound search. In particular, the linear and nonlinear zero-one variables are represented by linear sigmoid and nonlinear high-gain amplifiers with a response of a step function, respectively. Simulations based on solving a linear differential equation show that the ILPNN approach produces optimal or near-optimal solutions, although it does not guarantee optimal solutions. The authors also analyze the hardware implementation of ILPNNs and study the feasibility of this approach for large-scale problems. >