cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Workplace changes and engineering education reform

During most of the past century, each decade or so has provided a major study of engineering education that examined the health of the enterprise, determined its shortcomings and offered recommendations for change. Examining the past prepares us to understand the future more clearly. During the past few years several major workshops and studies have explored engineering education-where it is now and how it should be changing. Engineering education is a career oriented education. Significant changes in the workplace for engineering graduates should and will drive change in the engineering education process. The average company will be smaller, the new paradigm focuses on business as furnishing services, and technical workers will be the worker elite. The new demands of the workplace suggests the emphasis for engineering education should shift from a focus on course content to a focus on the development of human resources and a broader educational experience. What the new engineering education should be has been explored more than how we can move from where we are to where we should be. The systemic changes needed in engineering education will require a concurrent change in the academic culture.
Vaccination against the major infectious diseases

The reputation of vaccination rests on a 200-year-old history of success against major infectious diseases. That success has led to the doctrine of 'for each disease, a vaccine'. Although some diseases have proved frustrating, this doctrine carries considerable truth. However, when one reviews the vaccines now available it is apparent that most successes have been obtained when the microbe has a bacteremic or viremic phase during which it is susceptible to the action of neutralizing antibodies, and before replication in the particular organ to which it is tropic. Poliomyelitis and infections by capsulated bacteria are examples where vaccination has worked efficiently. However, some success has also been achieved against agents replicating on respiratory or gastrointestinal mucosae. Influenza, pertussis and rotavirus vaccines are examples of such agents, against which it has been possible to induce immune responses acting locally as well as systemically. In addition, when bacteria produce disease through exotoxins, purification and chemical or genetic inactivation of those toxins has yielded highly efficacious vaccines. Control of intracellular pathogens has not been achieved, except partly with the BCG vaccine against tuberculosis, and modern efforts are directed towards pathogens against which cellular immune responses are critical. In general, two achievements have been crucial to the success of vaccines: the induction of long-lasting immunological memory in individuals and the stimulation of a herd immunity that enhances control of infectious diseases in populations.
Spanning Cycles Through Specified Edges in Bipartite Graphs

Posa proved that if G is an n-vertex graph in which any two nonadjacent vertices have degree-sum at least n + k, then G has a spanning cycle containing any specified family of disjoint paths with a total of k edges. We consider the analogous problem for a bipartite graph G with n vertices and parts of equal size. Let F be a subgraph of G whose components are nontrivial paths. Let k be the number of edges in F, and let t1 and t2 be the numbers of components of F having odd and even length, respectively. We prove that G has a spanning cycle containing F if any two nonadjacent vertices in opposite partite sets have degree-sum at least n/2 + τ(F), where τ(F) = ⌈k/2⌉ + ɛ (here ɛ = 1 if t1 = 0 or if (t1, t2)∈{(1, 0), (2, 0)}, and ɛ = 0 otherwise). We show also that this threshold on the degree-sum is sharp when n>3k. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Graph Theory 71:1–17, 2012 © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Is Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation the Major Cause of Mortality from Radiation at Relatively Low Whole Body Doses

The mechanism by which radiation exposure leads to death in mammalian organisms remains unknown, although numerous hypotheses have been discussed. At the lowest total body radiation doses leading to mammalian mortality, death occurs from the hematopoietic syndrome (HS). HS is thought to result from the cell killing effects of radiation in the bone marrow that lead to low numbers of circulating blood cells and the resultant HS symptoms, such as infection [from the loss of white blood cells (WBC)] and bleeding (presumably from the loss of platelets). Over approximately the last half century, the dose of ionizing radiation that kills half of an experimental group/exposed population, known as the LD50, has been used as a parameter to compare the radiation sensitivity of various mammalian species. It is well known that the LD50 is highly variable for different mammalian species; however, the bone marrow cells of different species, strains and individuals are known to have remarkably similar sensitivities to the cell killing effects of ionizing radiation (1, 2). These results suggest that the lethal effects of radiation in blood cells may not be the primary mechanism by which the HS causes death. Our results have suggested that radiation induced activation of the coagulation cascade, resulting in a condition known as disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), could be the major mechanism by which relatively low doses of radiation could lead to animal, including human, mortality.
External validation of preoperative and postoperative nomograms for prediction of cancer‐specific survival, overall survival and recurrence after robot‐assisted radical cystectomy for urothelial carcinoma of the bladder

Objective To externally validate currently available bladder cancer nomograms for prediction of all-cause survival (ACS), cancer-specific survival (CSS), other-cause mortality (OCM) and progression-free survival (PFS). Patients and Methods Retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database of 282 patients who underwent robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) at a single institution was performed. The Bladder Cancer Research Consortium (BCRC), International Bladder Cancer Nomogram Consortium (IBCNC) and Lughezzani nomograms were used for external validation, and evaluation for accuracy at predicting oncological outcomes. The 2- and 5-year oncological outcomes were compared, and nomogram performance was evaluated through measurement of the concordance (c-index) between nomogram-derived predicted oncological outcomes and observed oncological outcomes. Results The median (range) patient age was 70 (36–90) years. At a mean follow-up of 20 months, local or distant disease recurrence developed in 30% of patients. With an overall mortality rate of 33%, 17% died from bladder cancer. The actuarial 2- and 5-year PFS after RARC was 62% (95% confidence interval [CI] 54–68) and 55% (95% CI 46–63), respectively. The actuarial 2- and 5-year ACS was 66% (95% CI 59–72) and 47% (95% CI 37–55), respectively, and the 2- and 5-year CSS was 81% (95% CI 74–86) and 67% (95% CI 57–76), respectively. The PFS c-index for IBCNC was 0.70 at 5 years, and for BCRC was 0.77 at both the 2 and 5 years. The accuracy of ACS and CSS prediction was evaluated using the BCRC and Lughezzani nomograms. Using the BCRC nomogram, c-indices of for 2- and 5-year ACS were each 0.73 and c-indices for 2- and 5-year CSS were 0.70 each. The performance of Lughezzani nomogram for 5-year ACS, cancer-specific mortality and OCM were 0.73, 0.72 and 0.40, respectively. The BCRC nomogram prediction of advanced pathological stage and lymph node metastasis was modest, with c-indices of 0.66 and 0.61, respectively. Conclusions Bladder cancer nomograms available from the current open RC literature adequately predict ACS, CSS and PFS after RARC. However, prediction of advanced tumour stage and lymph node metastasis was modest and the Lughezzani nomogram failed to predict OCM.
Attention and curiosity in museums

Two hundred and thirty-four museum visitors of all ages were observed as they entered the Object Gallery area of the Florida State Museum. Visitors were observed under conditions where objects were available for close inspection but could not be manipulated (baseline data) and later when the same objects were placed on tables and were available for visitors to touch, move, and use a variety of senses to inspect them (intervention data). Data were recorded on the sex, age, and number of subjects in these areas under each of the above conditions. The results obtained show a significant increase in the number of visitors entering this section of the museum when manipulatable objects were available. Baseline data showed that 58.5% of the people who entered the Object Gallery went into the drawer section. However, when manipulatable objects were made available this increased to 82.3%. Chi-square analysis was used to determine whether the presence of manipulatable objects in the area increased the number of people who entered the area. It did (p < 0.05). Chi-square analysis was also used to determine whether entering the drawer section depended on age or sex. It was found that more children entered the drawer section than adults (p < 0.05) and significantly more female children and female adults entered as a result of intervention (p < 0.05). At the same time, more male children than adults entered after intervention (p < 0.05) than before. These data are supported by considerable curiosity research indicating that both children and adults are attracted to novel as well as complex stimuli which can be manipulated in both formal and free-choice environments. The data also support the growing movement to hands-on exhibits in natural history museums and science centers around the country, as well as hands-on classroom activities from the perspective of their attention attracting and holding power and their curiosity evoking characteristics. Whether these positive factors also lead to increased knowledge or skill development is a question yet to be explored.
Aortic aneurysm and dissection: normal MR imaging and CT findings after surgical repair with the continuous-suture graft-inclusion technique.

The normal range of postoperative imaging findings are described in 34 asymptomatic patients studied 5-66 months (mean, 28 months) after undergoing the continuous-suture graft-inclusion technique for repair of aortic aneurysms (n = 20) and dissections (n = 14) involving the ascending aorta. All 34 patients underwent magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, and 24 patients also underwent computed tomography (CT). Perigraft thickening was seen in 19 patients (56%) with MR imaging and in eight patients (33%) with CT. Flow outside the graft but contained within the native wrap was noted in five patients (15%) with MR imaging and in four patients (17%) with contrast material-enhanced CT. Thrombus was identified outside the graft and within the wrap in seven patients (21%) with MR imaging and in six patients (25%) with CT. Mass effect on the graft was depicted in four patients (12%) with MR imaging and in three patients (13%) with CT. Of the 14 patients who underwent repair of aortic dissections, an intimal flap was se...
The interaction between frontal functioning and encoding processes in reducing false memories.

ABSTRACT Studies suggest that age differences in false memories may be related to deficits in frontal lobe functioning (FLF; Butler, McDaniel, Dornburg, Price, & Roediger, 2004, Psychonomic Bulletin & Review, 11, 921). In addition, research has demonstrated that item-specific encoding can reduce false memories in younger adults (Arndt & Reder, 2003, Journal of Experimental Psychology: Learning, Memory, and Cognition, 28, 830). In the present study we examined whether younger and older adults who perform poorly on tests designed to assess frontal function would be less likely to benefit from item-specific encoding in a false memory paradigm. In three experiments, participants studied categorized word or picture lists. Encoding manipulations were designed to emphasize either item-specific or relational processing. Younger adults and high FLF older adults showed a reduction in false memories when item-specific processing was implemented. However, low FLF older adults showed a reduction in false memories only...
The effect of pharmacokinetics on optimal protocols for a mathematical model of tumor anti-angiogenic therapy

A mathematical model for the scheduling of angiogenic inhibitors that includes a pharmacokinetic equation is considered as an optimal control problem. When dosage and concentration of the inhibitor are identified, there exists an optimal singular arc of order 1 that forms the core of a synthesis of optimal controls. Under the standard pharmacokinetic linear model for the concentration this singular arc is preserved and still optimal, but its order increases to 2. This prevents concatenations of the singular arc with the constant bang controls and now the transitions to and from the singular arc are through chattering arcs. Optimal controls have the property that the associated concentration of inhibitors tracks the optimal singular arc for the reduced model without pharmacokinetic equations.
Modeling and simulation of the human δ opioid receptor

A model for the human δ opioid receptor has been generated via sequence alignment, structure building using the crystal structure of bovine rhodopsin as a template, and refinement by molecular dynamics simulation. The model building suggested that, in addition to the previously postulated interaction between D128 and Y308, an internal salt bridge also exists between residues D128 and R192, both of which are conserved in all the opioid receptors. The model and salt bridge were then shown to be stable during a 20-nsec simulation in a lipid bilayer. It is therefore proposed that both of these interactions play a role in stabilizing the inactive state of the receptor. The model is also used in an effort to rationalize many of the mutational studies performed on δ opioid receptors, and to suggest a plausible explanation for the differences between known δ opioid agonists and antagonists.
Wegbereiter der Shoah. Die Waffen-SS, der Kommandostab Reichsführer-SS und die Judenvernichtung 1939–1945 . By Martin Cüppers. Darmstadt: Wissenschaftliche Buchgesellschaft. 2005. Pp. 464. €59.90. ISBN 3-534-16022-3.

To date, debates about the identity and motives of perpetrators of German extermination policies have focused on the Einsatzgruppen (mobile squads of the Security Police and the Security Service), concentration camp personnel, and the Order Police. Martin Cuppers now presents the first systematic study of one of the best documented, yet least publicized set of units that participated in the murder of European Jews. He explores three Waffen-SS brigades and some smaller units under the Kommandostab Reichsfuhrer-SS . In some respects, the book's title is misleading. It does not cover the military wing of the SS as a whole and, if anything, it demonstrates that the Kommandostab was of minor importance since it was never really in command of anything. Serving as a transmitter of information and as an organizational tool, it further declined in importance after early 1942. In addition, just as with other perpetrator units, the Waffen-SS brigades did not murder only Jews; the book does deal with the brigades' other victims though the book title does not suggest it.
Neonatal Opiate Withdrawal: Pharmacologic Management ☆

It is estimated that 5.2% of four million women in the United States abuse illicit drugs during pregnancy. As a result, approximately 208 000 newborn infants will be born to these drugs in utero. Of those infants who are exposed to opiates in utero, approximately 50% to 90% of them will have neonatal opiate withdrawal. A number of drugs have been used to treat neonatal abstinence; however, it is unclear what treatment is best. This article will describe the signs and symptoms of opiate withdrawal in the neonate, the clinical assessment tools that can be used to observe for neonatal withdrawal, and the possible treatment regimens used to treat neonatal abstinence.
A Generalized Model for Crimp Analysis of Multi-Component Fibers Part II : An Illustrative Example

The theoretical development of a generalized model to predict the crimp radius of a multi-component fiber has been reported in Part I [1]. The model is based on the linear theory of elasticity and attempts to provide a first-order estimate for multi-component fibers without any restrictions on the number of components or their geometrical arrangement in the cross section. This paper illustrates the application of the formulation in [1] to a bicomponent structure. Within the limitations of the basic assumptions, the influences of dimensionless parameters (geometrical and material) on the crimp radius are investigated in some detail.
International Market Segmentation Based on Consumer Behavior

In my earlier book (Samli 1995) I paraphrased Spielvogel (1989) saying that global consumer segmentation must cross national lines. That could easily be misconstrued: first, there could be a global segmentation that is not quite realistic and there cannot be national segmentation, let alone a global one. Second, crossing national lines can be interpreted as markets being homogenous domestically and segmented internationally. This also is not correct, because domestic or international markets are simply not homogenous. In fact, as stated in the Introduction, today there are more cultural pockets in markets that may be forming as segments. In other words, neither domestically nor internationally does one size simply fit all.
Understanding Conflict?...Maybe!

The premise of this paper is the study in the field of conflict and conflict resolution and that conflict and conflict resolution are useful areas of focus in order to better understand human behavior. Additionally, I will present data that will highlight the notion that conflict is not in itself a bad thing and that conflict has the capability to be utilized as a vehicle for understanding the many contradictions that are necessarily present in our efforts to be social beings.
Rapidly Appearing Sclerotic Vertebral Lesions in a Patient With an Infiltrative Mediastinal Mass.

A 48-year-old, previously healthy man presented with a 3-month history of worsening cough, 10-poundweight loss, andfatigue.Hisphysicalexaminationwasunremarkable.Chest radiography identifiedapredominantlyanteriormediastinalmass.Contrast-enhancedcomputed tomography (CT)demonstrateda large infiltrativemediastinalmass involving theanterior and middle mediastinum associated with airway narrowing and severe compression of and probable invasionof thesuperiorvenacava (SVC)andcompleteobstruction of the left brachiocephalic vein (BCV). Laboratory studies revealed a normocytic anemia andneutrophilia. The patientwas referred to a pulmonologist and underwent flexible bronchoscopywith endobronchial ultrasound-guided biopsy. Pathologic review demonstrated an adenocarcinomawith signet-ring features. Seventeendays following the initial CT, thepatient presented to theemergencydepartmentwithpleuritic chest pain and shortness of breath. SubsequentCTpulmonary angiographyperformedwith intravenous (IV) contrast injectionvia the left antecubital fossa revealed nopulmonaryembolismbutdemonstrated slightprogressionof themass aswell asmultiple newscleroticvertebral lesions involvingtheposteriorvertebralbodiesandposteriorelements (Figure). Quiz at jamaoncology.com Sagittal view A
The Development of World-Systems

This essay discusses conceptual issues that arise from the study of human social change. The comparative and evolutionary world-systems perspective is explained as a theoretical research program for studying long-term social change. This approach employs an anthropological framework of comparison for studying world-systems, including those of hunter-gatherers. Problems of spatially bounding whole human interaction networks are addressed, and the utility of a comparative approach to the study of hierarchical relations among human polities (core/periphery relations) is examined. The hypothesis of semiperipheral development is explained, and criteria for empirically identifying semiperipheral regions are specified. World history and global history are the most important evidential bases, along with prehistoric archaeology, for the comparative study of world-systems. Getting the grounds of comparison right by correctly conceptualizing the spatial units of analysis and paying careful attention to core/periphery relations are crucial issues in the effort to comprehend and explain the development of world-systems.
Anisotropic Eigenvalue Spectrum Calculations of the Neutron Transport Operator with Low-Order Spatial Expansion Methods

The results of a numerical analysis of the eigenvalue spectrum and eigenmodes of the monoenergetic integral transport equation are presented. Anisotropic scattering effects are explicitly considere...
ZEROS OF DERIVATIVES OF STRICTLY NON-REAL MEROMORPHIC FUNCTIONS

Let f be a meromorphic non-entire function in the plane, and suppose that for every n ≥ 0, the derivative f (n) has only real zeros. We have proved that then f is rational and of a special form, and that all possibilities can be listed. In this paper we prove that part of this result which is related to properties of strictly non-real functions.
A Method for Reliability Assessment of Aircraft Structures Subject to Accidental Damage

A method has been proposed to assess the reliability of aircraft structures subject to accidental damage using in-service damage data. The development of this method is motivated by the increasing use of composite materials in aircraft structures, which are particularly sensitive to impact damage. In addition, damage to composite structures may not be visible or may be difficult to detect. Based on the equivalent Level of Safety (LOS) concept, this method consists of two essential elements: a probabilistic assessment of detected damages and the probability of non-destructive inspection methods to detect such damage. Accidental damage threats are first characterized by identifying damage type, size, cause, and frequency for different aircraft models and structural components. The damage threats are then modeled by constructing histograms and detected damage probability distributions. Probability of detection models for various non-destructive inspection techniques are then used to calculate the equivalent Level of Safety. This approach can be used to design a new aircraft structure that is equivalently or more reliable as current designs. Furthermore, maintenance service guidelines and optimum inspection intervals may be estimated once design limit load is established. Engineers can use this methodology in the future as a guide to establish design and inspection criteria while considering safety risk and maintenance cost at the same time. The current reliability method relies on the completeness of the reported data on detected damage. Fleet service data currently available may not contain accurate information on damage size and the associated inspection method. In addition, damage reporting procedures vary from one operator to another, and damage data available for composite structures are limited. Therefore, sample representation of the extracted damage sizes and the probability of reporting are issues that must be addressed in order to apply the method to practical aircraft design. In this paper, 100% reporting and 100% sample representation is assumed. The results of the current reliability analysis method may give insight on general damage threats and future methods for designing and inspecting composite aircraft structures.
Abstract 604: Nek2 is a promising target for triple negative breast cancer treatment strategies

Although the anticancer drugs paclitaxel and doxorubicin are commonly used to treat many types of solid tumors, their effectiveness is highly variable due to tumor cell resistance. Therefore, it is important to find mechanisms that can be targeted to increase the sensitivity of cancer cells to antitumor agents such as paclitaxel and doxorubicin. NIMA related kinase 2 (Nek2), a serine/threonine kinase is emerging as an important oncogene because of its regulatory role in mammalian cell mitosis. Thus, regulation of the Nek2 expression levels may prove important as a target for cancer treatment. In this study, we investigated whether drug sensitivity was increased in the triple negative breast cancer cell lines MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 by using antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) and siRNA against Nek2. MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 breast cancer cells transfected with Nek2 siRNA or ASO were exposed to various concentrations of paclitaxel and doxorubicin. Cell viability, cell cycle distribution, and apoptosis were evaluated. We observed that drug susceptibility in these transfected cells was dramatically increased compared with either agent alone. Interestingly, the cell proliferation of the Nek2 ASO transfected breast cancer cells was much lower than the Nek2 siRNA transfected breast cancer cells. Our FACS data showed paclitaxel treated cells transfected with ASOs arrested in G2/M phase as expected due to Nek2 regulatory function in centrosome duplication. We observed that ASOs and siRNA against Nek2 work with paclitaxel and by arresting cells at G2/M and progressing the cells to apoptosis. Our results suggest that these drugs in combination with Nek2 siRNA or ASO treatment greatly improve the sensitivity of cancer cells. Thus, these results provide a possible new strategy for the treatment of breast cancer. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 604. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-604
Effects of the Material Structure on the Catalytic Activity of Peptide-Templated Pd Nanomaterials

Bioinspired approaches represent emerging methods for the fabrication and application of nanomaterials under desirable ambient conditions. By adapting biomimetic processes to technological applications such as catalysis, new directions could be achieved for materials that are reactive under energy efficient and ecologically friendly conditions. Such materials have been prepared using a self-assembling peptide template in which non-spherical Pd nanostructures can be generated. Based upon the Pd/peptide ratio, different inorganic morphologies can be prepared within the peptide scaffolds, including nanoparticles, linear nanoribbons, and complex nanoparticle networks (NPNs). These materials are catalytically reactive; however, the effects of the template and Pd morphology remain poorly understood. To ascertain these effects, we present an in depth catalytic analysis of the bioinspired peptide-based system using two vastly different reactions: Stille C−C coupling and 4-nitrophenol reduction. For all of the sys...
The impact of surveillance and hospital uniform criteria on hepatitis B diagnosis and report

Objective To learn about the impact of different management methods during web- based reporting period on the hepatitis B diagnosis and report. Methods The 2004- 2013 year 's hepatitis B data were collected from"China Information System for Disease Control and Prevention". The reporting incidence tendency,hepatitis B typing and laboratory diagnosis were analyzed by comparing with the measures performed in Tianjin and in the country. Results In preliminary web based reporting stage,the increasing morbidity rate tendency between Tianjin and in the country were consistent( t = 1. 00,P = 0. 421). But after the report criteria was published,the declined tendency was changed( x2=924. 84,P 0. 001),which were different from the Nation's standard( t = 9. 74,P 0. 001). The number of chronic hepatitis B cases( incidence rate) decreased after criteria uniformed. Establishing the surveillance hospital could improve laboratory diagnosis and viral hepatitis typing. Conclusions Establishing the surveillance hospital can improve the hepatitis B diagnosis and report quality. The uniformed criteria are the key method to terminate unorganized reporting,and confirm the surveillance data validity.
Protein kinase and phosphatases from human polymorphonuclear leucoytes.

Purified preparations of human polymorphonuclear leucocytes contain a protein kinase in the cytosol which is stimulated by cyclic AMP and cyclic IMP but not by other cyclic nucleotides. The holoenzyme had a molecular weight of 66000 estimated by gel filtration; when it was incubated with histone or cyclic AMP, it dissociated into two smaller subunits of molecular weight 45000 and 30000; the former remained cyclic AMP-sensitive, whereas the latter had become independent of added cyclic AMP. By means of substrate-affinity chromatography on histone-Sepharose 4B, cyclic [3H5AMP-binding activity (regulatory or R subunit) could be resolved into two peaks of enzyme activity, one again independent of added cyclic AMP, with a molecular weight of 30000 (catalytic or C subunit). Also by means of substrate-affinity chromatography it was possible to resolve ‘specific’ polymorphonuclear leukocyte histone phosphatases from ‘non-specific’ phosphomonesterases capable of dephosphorylating histone previously phosphorylated by the protein kinase. Specific histone phosphatase displayed greatest affinity for histone-Sepharose 4B, followed by acid p-nitrophenyl phosphatase, and the unretained acid beta-glucerophosphatase. Polymorphonuclear leucocyte histone phosphatase, purified approx. 40-fold, was further resolved from the other phosphatases by gel filtration on Sephadex G-150 from which it was eluted with apparent molecular weights of 45000 and 18700. The apparent Km values for dephosphorylation of histone are 4.3 × 10-6M and 3.6 × 10-6M. Most (69%) of cytoplasmic histone phosphatase was found in the cell sap, whereas 20% remained tightly associated with polymorphonuclear leucocyte lysosomes from which it could not be solubilized by treatments (Triton X-100, freeze-thawing) that released approx. 70% of lysosomal beta-glucuronidase or acid phosphatases. Although both soluble and particulate enzymes required 5-10 mM-Mn2 for maximal activation, and showed a pH maximum of 6.5-7.0, only the particulate enzyme was partly inhibited by ammonium molybdate. Polymorphonuclear leucocyte histone phosphatases were neither inhibited nor stimulated by those cyclic nucleotides that greatly stimulate the protein kinase of the same subcellular fraction
Law as Palimpsest: Conceptualizing Contingency in Judicial Opinions

Metaphors create conceptualizations, and for decades legal academics have employed metaphors to shape understandings of legal problems. But no metaphor in current use successfully conceptualizes the contingency of judicial opinions and the complexity of the relationship between opinions and precedent. This Article seeks to fill this void by introducing a new metaphor, the palimpsest, into the realm of legal analysis. A palimpsest is a writing surface that can be cleared away for reuse, like a personal blackboard. What distinguishes a palimpsest from other writing surfaces is that its removed contents do not disappear, but remain, obscured yet recoverable: A writing on a palimpsest never goes away. This Article argues that thinking of judicial opinions as being part of a shared, ever-evolving palimpsest underscores the fact that they are ultimately contingent and serves as a reminder of the multiple levels of interconnectedness between them and the cases they cite. Precedents — like the underlayers of a palimpsest — never go away, and they inform and shape the application of opinions in ways far more significant than simply serving as points of reference. A palimpsestic approach to understanding judicial decisionmaking also helps to explain why even the oldest, most reviled cases remain part of our national psyche — like underlayers of a palimpsest, they can never truly disappear, and their continued presence forces us to grapple with their existence. Finally, considering judicial opinions as part of a shared palimpsest reminds us that even the most troubling opinion is ultimately contingent, its application subject to reexamination and revision by future courts and future generations. Just as such an opinion replaces its precedents, it too will one day be replaced, like each of a palimpsest’s layers.
The Role of Classroom Assessment in Supporting Self-Regulated Learning

Self-regulation of learning occurs when learners set goals and then systematically carry out cognitive, affective, and behavioral practices and procedures that move them closer to those goals. Self-regulated learning (SRL) depends, in part, on information gleaned from classroom assessments about student learning and achievement. In this chapter we will discuss how classroom assessment is or could be used to support SRL. We will draw on the literatures on classroom assessment and SRL in order to demonstrate how assessment contributes to each phase of self-regulation, defined here as: (1) goal setting, (2) progress monitoring, and (3) revision and adjustment. For example, the goal-setting phase is influenced by the learning goals and success criteria shared by a teacher. The progress-monitoring phase is affected by feedback provided via formative and summative assessments. The revision-and-adjustment phase is affected by opportunities teachers give students to use feedback and decisions students make based on that feedback. This chapter demonstrates the close relationship between classroom assessment and SRL by reviewing research evidence for each phase, and makes the case that assessment can support the self-regulation of learning in classroom settings. The chapter also addresses challenges of implementing classroom assessment practices that support SRL.
CHAPTER 1 – The Genomes of Escherichia coli K-12 and Pathogenic E. coli

The E.coli K-12 is one of the first microorganisms targeted for genome sequencing, and thus this model is of great interest to experimental molecular biologists and microbiologists. This chapter provides an overview of the history, current state, and future of E.coli genomics. Currently there are published available E.coli genome sequences for E.coli K-12, a laboratory model organism, and for E.coli 0157:H7, an enterohemorrhagic pathogen. Additionally, ongoing genome sequencing projects address E.coli strains that exhibit distinct phenotypes with respect to their potential to cause human diseases. In context to physical and structural characteristics of the E.coli chromosome, it is observed that the complete K-12 MG1655 chromosome is 4639221 bp in length and the 0157:H7 Sakai strain is essentially a 5498450-bp chromosome. Ongoing genome-scale polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and microarray-based approaches are promising, but efforts are to be scaled up to address such a diverse species E.coli , with a dynamic and mosaic genome structure effectively. With the advent of new technologies, various approaches for the detection of E.coli pathogens and prevention and treatment of disease caused by E.coli can also become available.
Hyalinizing Trabecular Tumor

Hyalinizing trabecular tumor of the thyroid gland is a rare neoplasm of follicular origin that is characterized by an encapsulated nodule, a prominent trabecular growth pattern, and stromal hyalinization. This tumor typically behaves in a benign fashion but malignant cases have been reported. Hyalinizing trabecular tumors are usually well circumscribed or encapsulated with variability in color. The possibility that hyalinizing trabecular tumor represents a variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma has been considered given that the tumors frequently coexist and they share similar morphologic and nuclear features. However, on genetic analysis, hyalinizing trabecular tumor has been shown to be a discrete entity from papillary thyroid carcinoma. Hyalinizing trabecular tumors are frequently mistaken for papillary thyroid carcinoma, medullary carcinoma, or paraganglioma, but immunohistochemical stains are helpful in resolving this.
Abstract 4579: Simultaneous activation of C-X-C chemokine receptor 4 and cannabinoid receptor 2 results in decreased cell signaling and tumor cell intravasation

G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) heterodimerization has emerged as a means by which new signaling entities can be created with respect to agonist binding. Preliminary data from our lab indicates that agonist-bound GPCR C-X-C Chemokine Receptor 4 (CXCR4) and agonist-bound cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2R) interact at the cell membrane and that receptor interaction mitigates the effects of CXCL12-mediated CXCR4 signaling. RhoA, Rac1 and Cdc42 are small GTP-binding proteins of the Rho family that are activated downstream of CXCR4 signaling. The effects of RhoA, Rac1 and Cdc42 on the actin cytoskeleton have led to established roles for Rho proteins in cancer cell motility, metastasis and intravasation. Here we report the novel finding that CXCR4/CB2R heterodimerization decreases Rho signaling, resulting in decreased intravasation. To test the effect of receptor heterodimerization on RhoA, Rac1, and Cdc42 activation, PC3 cells were treated with the CXCR4 agonist SDF1α, the CB2R agonist AM1241 or with a combination of SDF1α and AM1241 for 1 minute. Cell lysates were collected and immunoprecipitation experiments were performed to detect RhoA, Rac1 and Cdc42. To test the effects of CXCR4/CB2R heterodimerization on intravsation, we performed a zymography assay for the detection of metalloproteinase-2 (MMP2) and metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9), which are commonly secreted by CXCR4 signaling. Immunopreciptation results indicated an increase in RhoA and Rac1 protein levels after 1 minute in PC3 cells compared to the untreated control. However, when treated with SDF1α and AM1241 for 1 minute, RhoA and Rac1 levels decreased compared to SDF1α independent treatment; there was no observable change in Cdc42 protein levels. The results from the zymography experiments demonstrated that co-treatment with SDF1α and AM1241, which induces CXCR4/CB2R heterodimerization, led to decreased MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity, as compared to the SDF1α-independent treatment. Preliminary results provide novel evidence that CXCR4 and CB2R heterodimerize at the cell membrane, which may result in decreased signaling through RhoA and Rac1, but not through Cdc42. Furthermore, CXCR4/CB2R heterodimerization results in decreased MMP activation, thus abrogating intravsation. Citation Format: Imani N. Fennell, Kisha A. Scarlett, Christopher J. Coke. Simultaneous activation of C-X-C chemokine receptor 4 and cannabinoid receptor 2 results in decreased cell signaling and tumor cell intravasation. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 107th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2016 Apr 16-20; New Orleans, LA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(14 Suppl):Abstract nr 4579.
Fixed-k Asymptotic Inference About Tail Properties

We consider inference about tail properties of a distribution from an iid sample, based on extreme value theory. All of the numerous previous suggestions rely on asymptotics where eventually, an in...
Communication Conundrums: Theories about and Tips for Effective Decanal Communication

Clear and effective communication is essential for any organization, including a law school, to operate effectively. But communication is often one of the trickiest skills a law dean must seek to master. Once a person adds “Dean” to the front of his or her name, communication norms change. A dean must be sensitive to power structures — whether real or perceived — that exist within the law school. A dean also must be vigilant about how she communicates with others, and how others communicate on her behalf. And she must understand that people will communicate differently with her than with others in the organization, and that some people will purport to speak for her, even though they have no authority to do so. The communication conundrums a dean must navigate reflect the notion that, as a leader, the dean bears great responsibility for clear and effective communication within the organization. Communication theory — specifically organizational-communication scholarship examining supervisor communication — may provide insight and recommendations for how best to resolve these conundrums. This article provides examples of and discusses common communication conundrums that a law dean might face, along with the communication theories that explain the situations and practical solutions to help resolve them.
Living Lean: Bob's A-Maize-Ing Popcorn

This case is part of the "Living Lean" series, which presents accessible, everyday scenarios for a Lean process-improvement journey. In this episode on metrics and quality control, two friends confer on the development of a system to create the perfect popcorn. Excerpt UVA-OM-1467 Rev. Nov. 7, 2013 LIVING LEAN: BOB'S A-MAIZE-ING POPCORN Bob: Hi, Jay. Thanks for making it over. Jay: Glad to be here. Who else is here already? The game should be starting soon. Bob: Mike and Dave are in the den, watching the commercials. Always something new for the Super Bowl! I think we've got about 15 minutes before kickoff. . . .
Circulating microRNAs and association with methacholine PC20 in the Childhood Asthma Management Program (CAMP) cohort.

Introduction Circulating microRNAs (miRNA) are promising biomarkers for human diseases. Our study hypothesizes that circulating miRNA would reveal candidate biomarkers related to airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) and provide biologic insights into asthma epigenetic influences. Methods Serum samples obtained at randomization for 160 children in the Childhood Asthma Management Program were profiled using a TaqMan miRNA array set. The association of the isolated miRNA with methacholine PC20 was assessed. Network and pathway analyses were performed. Functional validation of two significant miRNAs was performed in human airway smooth muscle cells (HASMs). Results Of 155 well-detected circulating miRNAs, eight were significantly associated with PC20 with the strongest association with miR-296-5p. Pathway analysis revealed miR-16-5p as a network hub, and involvement of multiple miRNAs interacting with genes in the FoxO and Hippo signaling pathways by KEGG analysis. Functional validation of two miRNA in HASM showed effects on cell growth and diameter. Conclusion Reduced circulatory miRNA expression at baseline is associated with an increase in PC20. These miRNA provide biologic insights into, and may serve as biomarkers of, asthma severity. miR-16-5p and -30d-5p regulate airway smooth muscle phenotypes critically involved in asthma pathogenesis, supporting a mechanistic link to these findings. Functional ASM phenotypes may be directly relevant to AHR.
Childhood obesity and adult cardiovascular disease risk factors: a systematic review with meta-analysis.

Overweight and obesity is a major public health concern that includes associations with the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors during childhood and adolescence as well as premature mortality in adults. Despite the high prevalence of childhood and adolescent obesity as well as adult CVD, individual studies as well as previous systematic reviews examining the relationship between childhood obesity and adult CVD have yielded conflicting results. The purpose of this study was to use the aggregate data meta-analytic approach to address this gap. Studies were included if they met the following criteria: (1) longitudinal and cohort studies (including case-cohort), (2) childhood exposure and adult outcomes collected on the same individual over time, (3) childhood obesity, as defined by the original study authors, (4) English-language articles, (5) studies published up to June, 2015, (6) one or more of the following CVD risk factors [systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL), non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL), and triglycerides (TG)], (7) outcome(s) not self-reported, and (8) exposure measurements (child’s adiposity) assessed by health professionals, trained investigators, or self-reported. Studies were retrieved by searching three electronic databases as well as citation tracking. Fisher’s r to z score was calculated for each study for each outcome. Pooled effect sizes were calculated using random-effects models while risk of bias was assessed using the STROBE instrument. In order to try and identify sources of heterogeneity, random-effects meta-regression was also performed. Of the 4840 citations reviewed, a total of 23 studies were included in the systematic review and 21 in the meta-analysis. The findings suggested that childhood obesity is significantly and positively associated with adult SBP (Zr = 0.11; 95% CI: 0.07, 0.14), DBP (Zr = 0.11; 95% CI: 0.07, 0.14), and TG (Zr =0.08; 95% CI: 0.03, 0.13), and significantly and inversely associated with adult HDL (Zr = −0.06; 95% CI: -0.10, −0.02). For those studies that adjusted for adult body mass index (BMI), associations were reversed, suggesting that adult BMI may be a potential mediator. Nine studies had more than 33% of items that placed them at an increased risk for bias. The results of this study suggest that childhood obesity may be a risk factor for selected adult CVD risk factors. However, a need exists for additional, higher-quality studies that include, but are not limited to, both unadjusted and adjusted measures such as BMI before any definitive conclusions can be reached. PROSPERO 2015: CRD42015019763 .
The effect of Cryphonectria parasitica on water relations of American chestnut

Abstract Chestnut blight has commonly been regarded as a phloem disease due to conspicuous stem cankers that result from infection by the fungal pathogen Cryphonectria (Endothia) parasitica . Stomatal conductance (g s ), transpiration rate (E) and leaf water potential were measured throughout the day on leaves distal to naturally-occurring virulent (sunken bark with abundant stromata) or hypovirulent (swollen bark lacking stromata) cankers and cankers induced by inoculation with virulent or hypovirulent strains of C. parasitica . Relative to control stems, hydraulic conductivity (K h ), g s and E were reduced significantly (α = 0·05) for both natural virulent cankers, and cankers that were induced by a virulent strain. These effects were less pronounced for both natural and induced hypovirulent cankers. Isolation experiments revealed that the percentage of xylem tissue chips yielding C. parasitica was greater for virulent than for hypovirulent cankers. The data provide evidence that the localized presence of C. parasitica in cankers of American chestnut results in stomatal closure, possibly as a direct result of xylem dysfunction.
Fluorescence and Optical Fiber

In the previous chapter, we learned about spectrophotometric detection for biosensor applications, namely, detection of light absorbance at a certain wavelength. This method works well for a variety of applications, including, obviously, glucose sensing. Despite its popularity, it has some limitations. The glucose assay utilizes the use of the enzyme glucose oxidase (GOx) that can only detect glucose. To detect other target biomolecules, we need to find an appropriate enzyme that specifically binds to and oxidize them. This is not an easy task, especially when the target is a complicated biomolecule, such as a protein, virus, or even bacterium, where its oxidation is sometimes not at all possible.