cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Stakeholder-Focused Organizational Learning, Responsiveness and Innovation / Imitation

Success in the global marketplace is increasingly determined by the information and know-how organizations possess. While valuable research contributions have been made concerning how organizations learn about their customers, much remains unknown about how organizations learn about multiple stakeholders. This is unfortunate given the increasing importance organizations place on meeting their stakeholders’ demands. In addition, previous research has failed to account for the alternative mechanisms organizations use to acquire information about the market. To address these gaps in the literature, this study examines whether stakeholder-focused organizational learning influences the organization’ propensity to take action in response to its stakeholders’ needs. It also investigates if the knowledge acquisition mechanisms the organization relies on to acquire stakeholder-related knowledge determine how innovative or imitative its stakeholder practices are. The empirical analysis based on the responses of 349 marketing and supply chain management executives to an online survey reveal that the four organizational learning processes (i.e., knowledge acquisition, information distribution, information interpretation, and organizational memory) have a direct effect on stakeholder-focused responsiveness. The results also indicate that while experiential knowledge acquisition is related to innovative stakeholder practices, vicarious knowledge acquisition is related to imitative ones.
Feasibility of intraoperative fluorescence imaging of squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity using an optical PARP1 inhibitor

62 Objectives Targeting DNA repair mechanisms is a promising approach for tumor detection and intraoperative imaging based on the widespread expression of DNA repair proteins, such as Poly(ADP-ribose)Polymerase 1 (PARP1) in tumors. Here, we evaluated the fluorescent PARP1 inhibitor PARPi-FL for imaging of squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity with the goal of improving the surgical removal of malignant cells. Methods Uptake of PARPi-FL [1] was compared to PARP1 expression of squamous cell carcinoma cell lines (FaDu, Cal27) in vitro and in subcutaneous xenografts in mice 1.5h post injection. Co-localization of PARP1 expression (assessed by immunohistochemistry, IHC) and PARPi-FL binding was determined histologically. A fluorescence endomicroscope and a custom-built dual-axis confocal microscope [2] were used for imaging. Results Both cell lines expressed high levels of PARP1 compared to normal mucosa and muscle, which correlated to the PARPi-FL uptake in vitro (FaDu > Cal27). In vivo, higher PARP1 expression led to higher tumor-to-background ratios (FaDu: 4.5±1.4, Cal27: 2.8±1). Histologically, we detected specific nuclear accumulation of PARPi-FL in tumor but not stromal cells, matching the PARP1 IHC. Using a fluorescent endomicroscope we demonstrated real time in vivo detection of FaDu xenografts. Confocal microscopy confirmed nuclear localization of the agent in tumors as soon as 1.5h p.i., allowing identification of the PARP1 expression in individual cells thus confirming target binding. Conclusions PARPi-FL accumulates specifically in the nuclei of squamous cell carcinoma xenografts and leads to high tumor-to-background ratios as early as 1.5h p.i.. Identification of the tumor as well as single cells is possible with a fluorescent endomicroscope. This could eventually improve tumor resection compared to non image-guided surgery. Research Support Supported by the Brain Tumor Center of Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, the Imaging and Radiation Sciences Program of MSKCC, and the NIH/ NIDCR R01DE023497 (Liu).
CARVER 2.0: integrating the Analytical Hierarchy Process’s multi-attribute decision-making weighting scheme for a center of gravity vulnerability analysis for US Special Operations Forces:

This article examines the use of a weighting scheme with a multi-attribute decision-making (MADM) process to improve the CARVER center of gravity analysis that is currently used by Special Operatio...
Fact, Fiction, and Social Reality in Roman Law

Roman and civil law fictions were notorious among early modern critics for their variety and scope. The unborn are treated as living; the living are treated as dead; aliens are classified as citizens; clauses in legal instruments are assumed not to have been written. The essay surveys fictions in classical Roman law, both those the Romans themselves labeled fictions and others that functioned through similar linguistic operations. Particular attention is given to the use of fictions in practice, both in statute and surviving legal instruments. Finally, the essay explores the theoretical frameworks within which Romans understood the operation of fictions, especially the distinction between social and legal facts and the natural and the imaginary.
Amatoxin-Containing Mushroom Poisonings: Species, Toxidromes, Treatments, and Outcomes

Amatoxins are produced primarily by 3 species of mushrooms: Amanita, Lepiota, and Galerina. Because amatoxin poisonings are increasing, the objective of this review was to identify all amatoxin-containing mushroom species, present a toxidromic approach to earlier diagnoses, and compare the efficacies and outcomes of therapies. To meet these objectives, Internet search engines were queried with keywords to select peer-reviewed scientific articles on amatoxin-containing mushroom poisoning and management. Descriptive epidemiological analyses have documented that most mushroom poisonings are caused by unknown mushrooms, and most fatal mushroom poisonings are caused by amatoxin-containing mushrooms. Amanita species cause more fatal mushroom poisonings than other amatoxin-containing species, such as Galerina and Lepiota. Amanita phalloides is responsible for most fatalities, followed by Amanita virosa and Amanita verna. The most frequently reported fatal Lepiota ingestions are due to Lepiota brunneoincarnata, and the most frequently reported fatal Galerina species ingestions are due to Galerina marginata. With the exception of liver transplantation, the current treatment strategies for amatoxin poisoning are all supportive and have not been subjected to rigorous efficacy testing in randomized controlled trials. All patients with symptoms of late-appearing gastrointestinal toxicity with or without false recovery or quiescent periods preceding acute liver insufficiency should be referred to centers providing liver transplantation. Patients with amatoxin-induced acute liver insufficiency that does not progress to liver failure will have a more favorable survival profile with supportive care than patients with amatoxin-induced acute liver failure, about half of whom will require liver transplantation.
Individual and Group-Based Engagement in an Online Physical Activity Monitoring Program in Georgia.

INTRODUCTION Given the rising prevalence of obesity in the United States, innovative methods are needed to increase physical activity (PA) in community settings. Evidence suggests that individuals are more likely to engage in PA if they are given a choice of activities and have support from others (for encouragement, motivation, and accountability). The objective of this study was to describe the use of the online Walk Georgia PA tracking platform according to whether the user was an individual user or group user. METHODS Walk Georgia is a free, interactive online tracking platform that enables users to log PA by duration, activity, and perceived difficulty, and then converts these data into points based on metabolic equivalents. Users join individually or in groups and are encouraged to set weekly PA goals. Data were examined for 6,639 users (65.8% were group users) over 28 months. We used independent sample t tests and Mann-Whitney U tests to compare means between individual and group users. Two linear regression models were fitted to identify factors associated with activity logging. RESULTS Users logged 218,766 activities (15,119,249 minutes of PA spanning 592,714 miles [41,858,446 points]). On average, group users had created accounts more recently than individual users (P < .001); however, group users logged more activities (P < .001). On average, group users logged more minutes of PA (P < .001) and earned more points (P < .001). Being in a group was associated with a larger proportion of weeks in which 150 minutes or more of weekly PA was logged (B = 20.47, P < .001). CONCLUSION Use of Walk Georgia was significantly higher among group users than among individual users. To expand use and dissemination of online tracking of PA, programs should target naturally occurring groups (eg, workplaces, schools, faith-based groups).
Ziele, Wirkungen und Gestaltung der Unternehmenspublizität: Was lehrt die empirische Forschung?

Die masgeblich Ende der 60er Jahre einsetzende empirische Erforschung der Rechnungslegung war eine Reaktion auf zahlreich entwickelte normative Rechnungslegungstheorien. Diese gehen von bestimmten Annahmen uber das Verhalten der Bilanzierenden und der Bilanzadressaten aus. Ziel der empirischen Bilanzforschung — von den rein deskriptiven Untersuchungen abgesehen — dagegen ist es, die mikro- und makrookonomischen Wirkungen der publizierten Rechnungslegung zu beschreiben und zu erklaren. Eine Ubersicht gibt Abb. 1.
Coupled Lateral-Torsional Response of Base-Isolated Buildings

It is an unusual characteristic of a base-isolated building that its frequencies in lateral, longitudinal and torsional motion are very nearly the same. The fact that the lateral and longitudinal frequencies are the same is clear from the isotropic response of the isolators and their coincidence with the torsional frequency occurs if the isolator stiffness is matched to the carried load. This raises the possibility of a coupling between the three lowest modes if there is an imbalance between the center of mass and the center of rigidity.
Fitting the task to the man

Muscular work nervous control of movements improving work efficiency body size the design of work stations heavy work handling loads skilled work human-machine systems mental activity fatigue occupational stress boredom job design in monotonous tasks working hours and eating habits nightwork and shiftwork vision ergonomic principles of lighting noise and vibration indoor climate daylight, colours and music for a pleasant work environment.
Computational simulation of medial versus anteromedial tibial tuberosity transfer for patellar instability.

The study utilizes dynamic simulation of knee function to determine how tibial tuberosity medialization and anteromedialization influence patellar tracking and contact pressures for knees with patellar instability. Dual limb squatting was simulated with six multibody dynamic simulation models representing knees being treated for patellar instability. Each knee exhibited lateral patellar maltracking in the pre-operative condition based on the bisect offset index. The patellar tendon attachment points on the tibia were medialized by 10 mm to represent tibial tuberosity medialization, with an additional 5 mm of anteriorization applied for anteromedialization. The patellofemoral contact pressure distribution was quantified using discrete element analysis. Data were analyzed with repeated measures analysis of variance with post-hoc tests and linear regressions. Tibial tuberosity medialization and anteromedialization significantly (p < 0.05) decreased the bisect offset index for nearly all flexion angles up to 80°, with the largest changes near full extension. Both procedures significantly decreased the maximum lateral pressure at 55°, but increased the maximum medial pressure from 30 to 80°. The pre-operative to post-operative increase in the maximum contact pressure was significantly correlated with the maximum pre-operative bisect offset index for tuberosity medialization (r2 = 0.84), but not for anteromedialization. Statement of Clinical Significance: The results indicate tibial tuberosity medialization decreases patellar lateral maltracking and lateral patellofemoral contact pressures, but increases medial contact pressures. When pre-operative patellar maltracking is relatively low, tibial tuberosity medialization is likely to increase maximum contact pressures. Tibial tuberosity anteromedialization lowers the risk of elevated post-operative contact pressures compared to medialization. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:3231-3238, 2018.
Abstract 3906: Inhibition ofNF-kB Inducing Kinase (NIK) to supressNF-kB alternative pathway and cell migration in HNSCC

Nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation through the alternative pathway has been implicated in cancer progression and survival, however the regulatory signaling and biological significances are not well understood, especially in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). NF-κB-inducing kinase (NIK) is a key molecule in the alternative NF-κB pathway, which receives signals from Lymphotoxin beta/Lymphotoxin beta receptor (LTβ/LTβR) to activate Inhibitor-κB kinase α (IKKα) and transcription factors RELB/NF-κB2. In a panel of HNSCC cell lines, we observed that dysregulation of the alternative NF-κB pathway occurred primarily through increased LTβ receptor signaling via NIK and the non-canonical NF-κB subunits. We identified a NIK inhibitor 1, 3[2H, 4H]-Iso-Quinoline Dione, which inhibited cell migration at a low dose range, but exhibited minimal anti-proliferative effect in HPV(-) HNSCC cell lines. The biological effects of the inhibitor were through suppression of the alternative NF-κB signaling. Using Western blot and immunofluorescence staining, we showed that the inhibitor reduced the protein expression and/or phosphorylation of NIK, IKKα, and RELB/NF-κB2 (p52) in the cytoplasm, and/or the protein translocation in the nucleus. The NIK inhibitor also blocked LTβ induced translocation of RELB to the nucleus. The effects of NIK inhibitor were validated by knockdown of NIK using siRNA, which inhibited cell migration and LTβ-induced expression of MET. Met is a hepatocyte growth factor receptor implicated in promoting metastasis, and knockdown of MET slowed down HNSCC cell migration. We further extended the study on a murine oral metastasis cell line MOC2, which is a syngeneic mouse model suitable for testing drug effects on tumor growth and migration in vivo. We found that the NIK inhibitor decreased cell proliferation, migration, and invasion through an extracellular matrix barrier at low concentration ranges. Currently, we have identified a potent and selective small molecule NIK inhibitor, which is orally bioavailable and active in vivo. We plan to test the effects of this NIK inhibitor on HNSCC tumor growth and metastasis in the syngeneic MOC2 model. Our study may shed light on how HNSCC tumors migrate and metastasize to local lymph nodes, where the microenvironment promotes alternative NF-κB activation by LTβ through NIK signaling. Targeting NIK mediated alternative NF-κB activation could be a potential therapeutic strategy for preventing tumor migration and metastasis of HNSCC. (Supported by NIDCD intramural projects ZIA-DC-000016, 74) Citation Format: Rita Das, Paul E. Clavijo, Clint Allen, Anthony Saleh, Zhong Chen, Carter Van Waes. Inhibition ofNF-kB Inducing Kinase (NIK) to supressNF-kB alternative pathway and cell migration in HNSCC [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2018; 2018 Apr 14-18; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 3906.
Genome-Wide Association Study of Yield and Component Traits in Pacific Northwest Winter Wheat

Grain yield and agronomic traits, key breeding goals for most crops, are under complex genetic control and subject to environmental interactions. Plant breeders require that the genetic architecture of agronomic traits be identified in locally relevant germplasm. Our goal was to conduct a genome-wide association study to identify quantitative trait loci for eight agronomic traits in a diversity panel containing 402 Pacific Northwest winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) lines. Phenotypic evaluations of yield, yield components, phenology, and plant height were conducted under drought, rainfed, and irrigated conditions in 2012, 2013, and 2014. Linkage disequilibrium analysis, using 6492 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers from the 9K SNP array, determined that 70% of markers were in significant LD with other markers and formed 539 LD blocks with an average distance of 3.5 cM. Population structure analysis was conducted using 719 SNP tags that represent marker distribution. Three genetic subgroups were identified in the population, explaining 3 to 38% of the total phenotypic variation. A mixed linear model with 3653 SNP markers of known genetic position, the first two membership coefficients (Q = 2) of population structure and a compressed kinship (Kc = 192) was used in the association analysis. In this study, a total of 94 marker-trait associations that were significant (false discovery rate < 0.05) were identified. Multiple trait associations for yield and component traits were identified on chromosomes 2B, 4B, 5A, 5B, 6A, and 7B. These findings highlight the possibility of using historical recombination in northern latitude winter wheat to identify genomic regions associated with desired agronomic traits.
Online droplet monitoring in inkjet 3D printing using catadioptric stereo system

AbstractInkjet 3D printing is becoming one of the most disruptive additive manufacturing technologies, due to its unique capability of precisely depositing micro-droplets of multi-functional materi...
Analysis of local grain boundary strengthening utilizing the extrinsic indentation size effect

The extrinsic indentation size effect (ISE) is utilized to analyze the depth-dependent hardness for Berkovich indentation of non-uniform dislocation distributions with one and two dimensional deformation gradients and is then extended to indentation results at grain boundaries. The role of the Berkovich pyramid orientation and placement relative to the grain boundary on extrinsic ISE is considered in terms of slip transmission at yield and plastic incompatibility during post-yield deformation. The results are interpreted using a local dislocation hardening mechanism originally proposed by Ashby, combined with the Hall–Petch equation. The Hall–Petch coefficient determined from the extrinsic ISE of the grain boundary is found to be consistent with the published values for pure Fe and mild steel. A simple, linear continuum strain gradient plasticity model is used to further analyze the results to include contributions from a non-uniform distribution in plastic strain and dislocation density.
The Private Sector in Public Office: Selective Property Rights in China

This book addresses the long-standing puzzle of how China's private sector manages to grow without secure property rights, and proposes a new theory of selective property rights to explain this phenomenon. Drawing on rich empirical evidence including in-depth interviews, a unique national survey of private entrepreneurs, two original national audit experiments and secondary sources, Professor Yue Hou shows that private entrepreneurs in China actively seek opportunities within formal institutions to advance their business interests. By securing seats in the local legislatures, entrepreneurs use their political capital to deter local officials from demanding bribes, ad hoc taxes, and other types of informal payments. In doing so they create a system of selective, individualized, and predictable property rights. This system of selective property rights is key to understanding the private sector growth in the absence of the rule of law.
Decentralization - Past, Present, and Future

This introduction to decentralization examines decentralization’s past, present, and future. By tracing the history of past and existing decentralized systems and by examining emerging decentralized technology solutions, the author highlights the trends that lead to higher levels of decentralization in commerce and society.
Three-dimensional phase-field modeling of porosity dependent intergranular fracture in UO2

Abstract During reactor operation, the formation of bubbles at the grain boundaries can alter the fracture properties and subsequently the thermo-mechanical behavior of nuclear fuels. In this work, we discuss a phase-field fracture model, its implementation in MOOSE (Multiphysics Object-Oriented Simulation Environment), and its application to simulate porosity dependent brittle intergranular fracture. The presence of gas bubbles on grain boundaries has a non-negligible impact on crack initiation and propagation. Three-dimensional simulations are performed to investigate the influence of bubble geometry, porosity and loading conditions on the fracture strength. The correlation between fracture strength and porosity suggested by numerical simulations has a good agreement with experimental measurements.
The narrative macrostructure production of Spanish–English bilingual preschoolers: Within- and cross-language relations

Despite the importance of understanding the narrative abilities of bilingual children, minimal research has focused on Spanish–English bilingual preschoolers. Therefore, this study examined the cross-language macrostructure and within-language microstructure relations in the English and Spanish narratives of bilingual preschoolers and examined whether language dominance impacted these relations. Narratives were elicited from 200 preschool-aged children of Latino heritage. Microstructure measures included the number of different words, the mean length of utterance in words, and the subordination index. The narrative scoring scheme measured macrostructure (Heilmann, Miller, Nockerts, & Dunaway, 2010). Using standardized language testing of expressive vocabulary and sentence comprehension, the children were classified into two groups: balanced dominance and Spanish dominant. Results revealed that English macrostructure and Spanish macrostructure were not related after controlling for microstructure measures within languages. Children’s microstructure abilities in each language were strongly related to their macrostructure abilities within that language. Dominance did not moderate these relations. Consistent with previous research on school-age children, vocabulary was a unique predictor of macrostructure production. This study highlights the additional importance of utterance length within both languages to macrostructure during the preschool years. The absence of unique cross-language macrostructure relations and the absence of dominance group moderation may have been due to the immaturity of the children’s narratives.
A New Model to Improve Communication Training for Pediatric Icu Fellows

Program Goals: Simulation training or role playing has been shown to improve learning for physician trainees and has been used to teach and develop communication skills. Studies of one-time communication training for pediatric sub-specialty fellows show short-term improvement compared with self-directed reading; however, three-month follow-up shows nearly complete attrition of skills learned. There are no studies that have analyzed …
Legal Tools for Achieving Low Traffic Zones (LTZs): LEZ, ULEZ & Congestion Pricing in the U.S. Law Context

Cities around the world are looking to reduce greenhouse gas and other emissions from vehicles through the use of low emissions zones and congestion pricing. These strategies have been employed to great success abroad, including in central London, where both congestion pricing and fees and restrictions on higher-emitting vehicles are in effect. In the U.S. law context, these policy approaches give rise to significant legal issues that have not been well-explored. With an eye towards U.S. law considerations, Legal Tools for Achieving Low Traffic Zones (LTZs): LEZ, ULEZ & Congestion Pricing in the U.S. Law Context proposes that these policy approaches should be called “Low Traffic Zones,” or LTZs, and surveys those legal considerations. The areas of law explored herein are: (1) potential for preemption of LTZ policies by U.S. federal laws including the Clean Air Act (“CAA”), the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (“EPCA”) and the Federal Aviation Administration Authorization Act (“FAAAA”), (2) U.S. constitutional considerations including the dormant Commerce Clause, (3) federal tolling authority, (4) state enabling law, (5) laws to protect individual privacy and data security and (6) other claims that may be raised in litigation. The paper will conclude by outlining guidance U.S. law- and policy-makers may take into account in drafting LTZ policies to comport with U.S. and state law.
Update on pediatric lung transplantation: mir-ando into the mechanisms of chronic lung allograft dysfunction in children.

Purpose of review Lung transplantation (LTx) is a worthwhile treatment for children with end-stage lung diseases who have no practicable medical or surgical solutions. But the long-term survival remains the lowest in all solid-organ transplant, with a median survival of 5.7 years, limited by the onset of chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD). This reviews a recent publication in pediatric patients that focuses on translational regulation by microRNA. Recent findings The mechanisms that cause transplanted lung allografts have been difficult to identify. This review discusses pertinent findings in the first and largest observational prospective study of pediatric lung transplant recipients. The review discusses the relevance of microRNA that distinguish stable patients from those who can be predicted to display graft dysfunction on a molecular panel. Summary The article under review detected highly specific and sensitive markers of both acute rejection and CLAD in pediatric LTx recipients. With the use of next-generation sequencing techniques, biomarkers may soon provide the basis for earlier detection of graft function and stimulate development of therapeutic interventions to impact outcomes and survival. The review touches on the relevance of these findings and how future research can build on them.
Remote Learning and Foregoing the Dream

Due to Covid-19, almost all public-school districts across the U.S. suspended in-person learning and shifted overnight to remote learning. I am writing this in May of 2020. The future of the pandemic is unclear. However, we need to think critically how this challenging time informs post-Covid educational policies and curriculum.
Using Iterative Experimentation to Accelerate Program Improvement: A Case Example.

Background:This article offers a case example of how experimental evaluation methods can be coupled with principles of design-based implementation research (DBIR), improvement science (IS), and rap...
Becoming a Hacker: Demographic Characteristics and Developmental Factors

Hackers are not defined by any single act; they go through a process of development. Building from previous research and through ethnographic interviews and participant observation, the current analysis examines characteristics which may influence an individual’s development as a hacker. General demographic characteristics are analyzed, the participants’ school experiences are discussed, and perceived levels of parental support and influence are defined. Finally, descriptions of first exposures to technology, the concept of hacking, and the hacking community are presented. The study concludes with theoretical implications and suggestions for future research.
Improving the Student Experience to Broaden Participation in Electrical, Computer and Software Engineering

This Innovative Practice Full Paper presents a student experience model being implemented in the Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) Department at Iowa State University. The department has been implementing, adapting and enhancing a student experience model as part of a scholarship program designed to support and increase the success of students from underrepresented groups in the fields of electrical, computer, software, and cyber security engineering, including community college transfer students. The student experience model uses evidence-based practices focused on professional and leadership development. Interventions include a weekly seminar; group activities such as outreach projects and volunteering; conference participation; faculty and peer mentoring; academic and social support; and collaborative activities with diversity programs, learning communities, student organizations, and companies. Feedback from students and input from peer mentors have been used to improve programming with an emphasis on sense of belonging, professional development, supportive community, leadership, and holistic well-being. In addition, due in part to various entry points into the model, the wide variety of student backgrounds, needs and experiences has been illuminated. This has helped the department and faculty become more aware of issues and consider new models and structures. This paper provides an overview of the student experience model and outcomes, including a summary of research results.
Automating FEA programming

In this paper we briefly describe a combined symbolic and numeric approach for solving mathematical models on parallel computers. An experimental software system, PIER, is being developed in Common Lisp to synthesize computationally intensive and domain formulation dependent phases of finite element analysis (FEA) solution methods. Quantities for domain formulation like shape functions, element stiffness matrices, etc., are automatically derived using symbolic mathematical computations. The problem specific information and derived formulae are then used to generate (parallel) numerical code for FEA solution steps. A constructive approach to specify a numerical program design is taken. The code generator compiles application oriented input specifications into (parallel) FORTRAN77 routines with the help of built-in knowledge of the particular problem, numerical solution methods and the target computer.
Review of Intellectual Property in Common Law and Civil Law

This book review discusses Toshiko Takenaka's Intellectual Property in Common Law and Civil Law. The book covers copyright, trademark, and patent law in the United States, Europe, and Asia. The review recommends the book for advanced academic collections in intellectual property law.
Global convexity in the bi-criteria Traveling Salesman problem

This work studies the solution space topology of the Traveling Salesman Problem or TSP, as a bi-objective optimization problem. The concepts of category and range of a solution are introduced for the first time in this analysis. These concepts relate each solution of a population to a Pareto set, presenting a more rigorous theoretical framework than previous works studying global convexity for the multi-objective TSP. The conjecture of a globally convex structure for the solution space of the bi-criteria TSP is confirmed with the results presented in this work. This may support successful applications using state of the art metaheuristics based on Ant Colony or Evolutionary Computation.
δ-Aminolevulinic Acid Dehydratase of Rhodopseudomonas spheroides I. ISOLATION AND PROPERTIES

Abstract δ-Aminolevulinic acid dehydratase from Rhodopseudomonas spheroides, an enzyme which catalyzes the synthesis of the pyrrole, porphobilinogen, from 2 molecules of δ-aminolevulinic acid, has been purified 300- to 400-fold. The protein exhibits many of the characteristics of an allosteric enzyme. A plot of enzymatic activity versus substrate concentration yields a sigmoidal curve with an activity of about one-half that found in the presence of allosteric activators at high substrate concentrations. The allosteric effectors are monovalent cations, potassium, lithium, rubidium, and ammonium. A similar plot in the presence of these activators yields a hyperbolic saturation curve. Furthermore, the addition of K+ ions causes an association of the enzyme to form an equilibrium mixture of three enzymatically active species, a monomer, a dimer, and a trimer. The monomer, with a molecular weight of approximately 250,000, is the only species found on a sedimentation analysis in a sucrose gradient at very low concentrations of the above monovalent metallic cation. Sodium ions, on the other hand, do not fully activate the enzyme, as compared with the other alkali metal ions, whereas magnesium ions activate the enzyme to Vmax of about 80% of that found with K+, Li+, Rb+, and NH4+ ions. Manganese ions at low concentrations activate the enzyme but become inhibitory at higher concentrations. The enzymatic activity is markedly inhibited by protoporphyrin and by hemin.
Structural and functional analysis of a cloned segment of Escherichia coli DNA that specifies proteins of a C4 pathway of serine biosynthesis.

The plasmid pDR121 is a pBR322 derivative that contains a 3.7-kilobase-pair EcoRI fragment of DNA from the 81.2-min region of the Escherichia coli chromosome. The genomic insert encodes threonine dehydrogenase and at least one other protein. Several physical and kinetic properties of threonine dehydrogenase, overproduced in cells harboring pDR121, are identical to those of pure threonine dehydrogenase from a haploid mutant of E. coli K-12 that produces this enzyme constitutively. Tester strains with serB or glyA mutations harboring pDR121 are prototrophs. The ability to confer prototrophy on such tester strains is associated with elevated levels of threonine dehydrogenase. The functional roles of various segments of the 3.7-kilobase-pair insert of pDR121 were analyzed by constructing specific deletions and insertions. Certain subclones retained the ability to specify threonine dehydrogenase without conferring prototrophy on tester strains. This suggests that at least one other protein encoded within pDR121 plays an essential role in the conversion of threonine to serine. Images
The effects of biocontrol on cyclic pest populations and its unexpected outcomes

The management of natural systems while often meeting with success has also led to unexpected and undesirable outcomes. Unfortunately, the ultimate result, desirable or undesirable, of such management programs may not be apparent until long after the control efforts have begun. This is particularly true for forest-defoliating species that exhibit long-period cycles such as the invasive gypsy moth, Lymantria dispar , which causes widespread damage in some years but is rare in others. We studied the effects of spraying biocontrol agents on gypsy moth population dynamics using a series of field-tested and empirically parameterized mathematical models. This allowed us to examine potential control strategies and assess long-term effects. In a non-spatial model, addition of biocontrol into the system decreases the amplitude between boom and bust portions of the cycle. However, ill-planned biocontrol applications can help maintain pest populations at unexpectedly high numbers, which would result in constant forest defoliation. In a spatial two-patch model, where one patch is sprayed and the other is left untreated, there is considerable danger that migration between patches may drive the unsprayed population to levels that could also result in constant forest defoliation. It is often assumed that any control strategy that decreases pest populations in the short-term is beneficial, but our results show that undesirable outcomes over the long term may often occur. Thus, perturbations via management can have unexpected results, driving and maintaining populations at multiple levels including those far from desired management goals.
Theoretical Ideas about Neutrino Mass

What insight does theory give us about neutrino masses? When parity was discovered in 1957 it was immediately suggested that the neutrino was a massless Weyl particle having only two components, the left-handed v L and the right-handed anti-particle \(\bar v_R .\) With the advent of the standard model all fermions start out as Weyl particles: these are the left-handed doublets $$\begin{array}{*{20}c} {\left( {\begin{array}{*{20}c} {v_e } \\ e \\ \end{array} } \right)_L } & {\left( {\begin{array}{*{20}c} {v_\mu } \\ \mu \\ \end{array} } \right)_L } & {\left( {\begin{array}{*{20}c} {v_\tau } \\ \tau \\ \end{array} } \right)_L } \\ {\left( {\begin{array}{*{20}c} u \\ d \\ \end{array} } \right)_L } & {\left( {\begin{array}{*{20}c} c \\ s \\ \end{array} } \right)_L } & {\left( {\begin{array}{*{20}c} t \\ b \\ \end{array} } \right)_L } \\ \end{array} $$ (1) and the right-handed singlets $$\begin{array}{*{20}c} {\begin{array}{*{20}c} {e_R } & {\mu _R } & {\tau _R } \\ \end{array} } \\ {\begin{array}{*{20}c} {u_R } & {d_R } & {c_R } & {s_R } & {t_R } & {b_R .} \\ \end{array} } \\ \end{array} $$ .
Enhancing metadata for research methods in data curation

Metadata is an essential component to making datasets more accessible by others and facilitating meaningful interpretation and use. In particular, data users expect information on the methods or those processes undertaken to generate data to be available for review and data quality assessment. This study focuses on how description of methods is supported by examining current metadata schemes for scientific research data. Analysis of these schemes indicates varying degrees of support and guidance for methods description but with the potential for more comprehensive elements on documenting the data production process to be integrated and adopted. This preliminary investigation concludes with next steps toward a better understanding of metadata needs for research data and curation support of long-term data sharing and reuse.
Shock tube measurements of ignition delay times for the butanol isomers

Abstract Ignition delay times of the four isomers of butanol were measured behind reflected shock waves over a range of experimental conditions: 1050–1600 K, 1.5–43 atm, and equivalence ratios of 1.0 and 0.5 in mixtures containing 4% O2 diluted in argon. Additional data were also collected at 1.0–1.5 atm in order to replicate conditions used by previous researchers. Good agreement is seen with past work for 1-butanol ignition delay times, though our measured data for the other isomers were shorter than those found in some previous studies, especially at high temperatures. At most conditions, the ignition delay time increases for each isomer in the following order: 1-butanol, 2-butanol and i-butanol nearly equal, and t-butanol. In addition, t-butanol has a higher activation energy than the other three isomers. In a separate series of high-pressure experiments, ignition delay times of 1-butanol in stoichiometric air were measured at temperatures as low as 800 K. At temperatures below 1000 K, pre-ignition pressure rises as well as significant rollover of ignition delay times were observed. Modeling of all collected data using several different chemical kinetic mechanisms shows partial agreement with the experimental data depending on the mechanism, isomer, and conditions. Only the mechanism developed by Vranckx et al. [1] partially explains the rollover and pre-ignition observed in stoichiometric experiments in air.
Composing standards and composing teachers : The problem of national board certification

This article considers whether National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) certification may be as much an evaluation of a teacher’s writing about his or her teaching as it is an eva...
Corrosion and compatibility considerations of liquid metals for fusion reactor applications

Abstract The current understanding of corrosion and environmental effects on the integrity and mechanical properties of structural materials used with liquid metals in fusion reactors is reviewed. Corrosion processes in liquid lithium systems are examined and their influence on material degradation is discussed. Compatibility considerations that might arise from use of molten lead, bismuth, lead-bismuth, or lead-lithium are reviewed relative to the possible use of these liquids in fusion reactors.
Early detection of dreissenid species: Zebra/Quagga mussels in water systems.

Early detection of dreissenid species in water systems is critically important to maintaining structure and function of dam related structures. If mussels are detected early, facility operators may have approximately three to five years to adjust systems before the population of mussels are large enough to restrict the flow of water, clog pipes, restrict water intakes, affect cooling systems, and impede power generation. However, early detection of dreissenids in water with the current methods has some inherent issues with variability in sampling and reliability with analytical methods which creates management decision dilemmas. Since current control methods of these mussels are very limited in regulated water systems, Reclamation is conducting intensive research. To improve early detection in water systems, Reclamation has developed an analytical strategy that includes cross polarized light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), flow cell cytometry, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). This analytical strategy is used on water samples collected using a plankton tow net to collect primarily from reservoirs and also from water flow within facilities, usually from a tap or pipe.
Single Molecule Studies of FcεRI Dynamics Link Mobile Receptors with Signaling

The high affinity IgE receptor, FceRI, is the principal multi-subunit immunoreceptor on the surface of mast cells and basophils. These receptors bind circulating IgE with high affinity and are activated when multivalent allergen crosslinks IgE-bound receptors. Crosslinking initiates a complex signaling pathway that ultimately leads to degranulation and release of key mediators of allergic inflammation. To study the dynamic events that induce FceRI signaling, we generated two novel quantum dot (QD) probes for single particle tracking: monovalent QD-IgE that binds FceRI without crosslinking and multivalent DNP-QD that mimics allergen by crosslinking DNP-specific IgE. Previously, we provided direct evidence that actin filaments “corral” resting receptor motion and are involved in receptor immobilization (Andrews et al, Nature Cell Biology 10:955). Simultaneous imaging of single QD-IgE-FceRI complexes and GFP-tagged actin revealed that membrane-proximal actin bundles form a dynamic labyrinth that restricts receptor diffusion. Real-time imaging revealed that receptors become immobilized within seconds of crosslinking by high doses (1 μg/ml) of multivalent antigen and that immobilization is delayed when actin is disrupted. We have now investigated further the relationship between receptor immobilization and activation. We find that the kinetics of immobilization are dose dependent and receptors remain mobile at antigen doses corresponding to maximal degranulation (0.001-0.01 μg/ml). Using a novel hyperspectral microscope with ∼1 nm spectral resolution, we tracked up to five spectrally distinct QDs simultaneously. Multi-color tracking of QD-IgE-FceRI complexes revealed that small crosslinked clusters (2-4 receptors) remain mobile under activation conditions. In addition, DNP-QDs were shown to induce degranulation, yet DNP-QD-crosslinked receptors continue to diffuse. These results indicate that receptor immobilization is a feature of highly aggregated receptors, depends upon an intact actin cytoskeleton, and is more likely involved in signal termination than activation.
Nonlinear Calibration of Polarimetric Radar Cross Section Measurement Systems

Polarimetric radar cross section measurement systems are characterized by polarimetric system parameters eh and ev. These parameters can be measured by use of rotating dihedrals. The full polarimetric dataset as a function of the angle of rotation can be analyzed with a nonlinear set of calibration equations to yield the system-parameter complex constants and the four polarimetric-calibration amplitudes. These amplitudes appropriately reproduce the system's drift, and very accurately satisfy a drift-free system-configuration criterion. The results indicate that the nonlinear approach is better than the previously studied linear approach, which yielded system parameters that were seriously distorted by system drift.
Differential expression of uterine progesterone receptor forms A and B during the menstrual cycle

Recent studies suggest that the progesterone receptor isoforms (PR-A and PR-B) activate genes differentially and that PR-A may act as a repressor of PR-B function. Hence, the absolute and relative expression of the two isoforms will determine the response to progesterone. We have measured their relative expression in the uterus of cycling women who underwent endometrial biopsy. PR isoforms were identified on blots of SDS-PAGE gels by reaction with the AB-52 antibody after immunoprecipitation from endometrial extract. Both isoforms were highest in the peri-ovulatory phase, but levels of PR-A were always higher than those of PR-B. The ratio of PR-A to PR-B changed during the menstrual cycle. Between days 2 and 8, PR-B is almost undetectable and the A:B ratio is >10:1. From days 9 to 13, the ratio is about 5:1, and it is about 2:1 between days 14 and 16. Thereafter, PR-B dwindles rapidly and is virtually undetectable at the end of the cycle. In various hypoestrogenic environments, PR-B expression was reduced. However, exogenous estrogens in the follicular phase in the form of oral contraceptives, enhanced PR-B expression. These data support the possibility that progesterone acts through cycle-specific PR isoforms.
A quantitative competitive polymerase chain reaction assay for the oyster pathogen Perkinsus marinus.

A quantitative competitive polymerase chain reaction (QCPCR) assay was developed for the oyster parasite Perkinsus marinus. PCR primers for the rRNA gene region of P. marinus amplified DNA isolated from P. marinus but not from Perkinsus atlanticus, Crassostrea virginica, or the dinoflagellates Peridinium sp., Gymnodinium sp., or Amphidinium sp. A mutagenic primer was used to create a competitor plasmid molecule identical to the P. marinus target DNA sequence except for a 13-bp deletion. Both P. marinus and competitor DNA amplified with equivalent efficiencies. Each of 25 oysters was processed by 5 P. marinus diagnostic methods—Ray's fluid thioglycollate medium (FTM) tissue assay, FTM hemolymph assay, whole oyster body burden assay, QCPCR of combined gill and mantle (gill/mantle) tissue, and QCPCR of hemolymph. The QCPCR assay enabled detection of 0.01 fg of P. marinus DNA in 1.0 µg of oyster tissue. QCPCR of gill/mantle tissue or hemolymph as well as the body burden assay detected infections in 24 of 25 o...