cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Survival Analysis for Epidemiologic and Medical Research: Exponential survival time probability distribution

A product-limit estimate of a survival probability is model-free. Thus, the resulting estimates do not depend on assumptions or require knowledge about the population that produced the sampled survival data. The value estimated is entirely determined by the data. A totally different approach requires that a specific parametric model describe the sampled population. The exponential survival time probability distribution is one such model. It is a simple but theoretical distribution that completely defines a survival probability based on a single parameter (denoted λ). Specifically, this survival function is survival probability = P ( T ≥ t ) = S ( t ) = e -λ t . For example, for time t = 20 years, the survival probability is P ( T ≥ 20) = S (20) = e -0.04(20) = 0.449 when the exponential distribution parameter is λ = 0.04 (Chapter 1, Figure 1.1). Thus, for a randomly sampled individual whose survival time is described by these exponential survival time data (λ = 0.04), the probability of surviving beyond time t = 20 years is 0.449. For any other value of t , the corresponding survival probability is similarly calculated. The survival time distribution depends entirely on a single parameter (in the example, λ = 0.04) to completely describe the population sampled. Figure 5.1 displays the geometry of three exponential survival functions (λ = 0.04, 0.15, and 1.0). The exponential function f ( x ) = e -λ x is found in a variety of contexts other than survival analysis. For example, it is used to describe the physics of heat loss from an object (Newton's law of cooling), the loss of electrical charge, the oscillations of a spring, and the interest accumulated in a bank account.
Senbazuru: a prototype spreadsheet database management system

Spreadsheets have become a critical data management tool, but they lack explicit relational metadata, making it difficult to join or integrate data across multiple spreadsheets. Because spreadsheet data are widely available on a huge range of topics, a tool that allows easy spreadsheet integration would be hugely beneficial for a variety of users.We demonstrate that Senbazuru, a prototype spreadsheet database management system (SSDBMS), is able to extract relational information from spreadsheets. By doing so, it opens up opportunities for integration among spreadsheets and with other relational sources. Senbazuru allows users to search for relevant spreadsheets in a large corpus, probabilistically constructs a relational version of the data, and offers several relational operations over the resulting extracted data (including joins to other spreadsheet data). Our demonstration is available on two clients: a JavaScript-rich Web site and a touch interface on the iPad. During the demo, Senbazuru will allow VLDB participants to search spreadsheets, extract relational data from them, and apply relational operators such as select and join.
Using Semantic Web tools for COntext INterchange

The COntext INterchange Strategy (COIN) is an approach to solving the problem of interoperability of semantically heterogeneous data sources through context mediation. The existing implementation of COIN uses its own notation and syntax for representing ontologies. More recently, the OWL Web Ontology Language is becoming established as the W3C recommended ontology language. A bridge is needed between these two areas and an explanation on how each of the two approaches can learn from each other. We propose the use of the COIN strategy to solve context disparity and ontology interoperability problems in the emerging Semantic Web both at the ontology level and at the data level. In this work we showcase how the problems that arise from context-dependant representation of facts can be mitigated by Semantic Web techniques, as tools of the conceptual framework developed over 15 years of COIN research.
Brf1 posttranscriptionally regulates pluripotency and differentiation responses downstream of Erk MAP kinase

AU-rich element mRNA-binding proteins (AUBPs) are key regulators of development, but how they are controlled and what functional roles they play depends on cellular context. Here, we show that Brf1 (zfp36l1), an AUBP from the Zfp36 protein family, operates downstream of FGF/Erk MAP kinase signaling to regulate pluripotency and cell fate decision making in mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs). FGF/Erk MAP kinase signaling up-regulates Brf1, which disrupts the expression of core pluripotency-associated genes and attenuates mESC self-renewal without inducing differentiation. These regulatory effects are mediated by rapid and direct destabilization of Brf1 targets, such as Nanog mRNA. Enhancing Brf1 expression does not compromise mESC pluripotency but does preferentially regulate mesendoderm commitment during differentiation, accelerating the expression of primitive streak markers. Together, these studies demonstrate that FGF signals use targeted mRNA degradation by Brf1 to enable rapid posttranscriptional control of gene expression in mESCs.
Molecular Tuning of an EF-Hand-like Calcium Binding Loop Contributions of the Coordinating Side Chain at Loop Position 3

Calcium binding and signaling orchestrate a wide variety of essential cellular functions, many of which employ the EF-hand Ca2+ binding motif. The ion binding parameters of this motif are controlled, in part, by the structure of its Ca2+ binding loop, termed the EF-loop. The EF-loops of different proteins are carefully specialized, or fine-tuned, to yield optimized Ca2+ binding parameters for their unique cellular roles. The present study uses a structurally homologous Ca2+ binding loop, that of the Escherichia coli galactose binding protein, as a model for the EF-loop in studies examining the contribution of the third loop position to intramolecular tuning. 10 different side chains are compared at the third position of the model EF-loop with respect to their effects on protein stability, sugar binding, and metal binding equilibria and kinetics. Substitution of an acidic Asp side chain for the native Asn is found to generate a 6,000-fold increase in the ion selectivity for trivalent over divalent cations, providing strong support for the electrostatic repulsion model of divalent cation charge selectivity. Replacement of Asn by neutral side chains differing in size and shape each alter the ionic size selectivity in a similar manner, supporting a model in which large-ion size selectivity is controlled by complex interactions between multiple side chains rather than by the dimensions of a single coordinating side chain. Finally, the pattern of perturbations generated by side chain substitutions helps to explain the prevalence of Asn and Asp at the third position of natural EF-loops and provides further evidence supporting the unique kinetic tuning role of the gateway side chain at the ninth EF-loop position.
Azathioprine-induced hepatitis and cholestasis occurring 1 year after treatment.

Azathioprine is an immunosuppressive medication used in the management of many autoimmune conditions. Commonly reported adverse effects from azathioprine therapy are nausea and bone marrow suppression, while less common side effects include hepatotoxicity. We present the case of a 47-year-old man with a history of myasthenia gravis on azathioprine for 1 year, who presented to our institution with painless jaundice. On initial laboratory evaluation, the level of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase and total bilirubin were markedly elevated. Owing to the potential diagnosis of acute liver failure secondary to azathioprine toxicity, this medication was discontinued. A liver biopsy demonstrating drug-induced liver injury, along with high serum levels of 6-methylmercaptopurine nucleotide confirmed the diagnosis of azathioprine-induced hepatotoxicity. Upon discontinuation of the medication, the patient9s transaminases and bilirubin levels improved steadily over the four-day hospital course. This case emphasises azathioprine9s potential for hepatotoxicity, even 1 year after the initiation of its use.
Modification point depth and genome growth in genetic programming

The evolutionary computation community has shown increasing interest in arbitrary-length representations, particularly in the field of genetic programming. A serious stumbling block to the scalability of such representations has been bloat: uncontrolled genome growth during an evolutionary run. Bloat appears across the evolutionary computation spectrum, but genetic programming has given it by far the most attention. Most genetic programming models explain this phenomenon as a result of the growth of introns, areas in an individual which serve no functional purpose. This paper presents evidence which directly contradicts intron theories as applied to tree-based genetic programming. The paper then uses data drawn from this evidence to propose a new model of genome growth. In this model, bloat in genetic programming is a function of the mean depth of the modification (crossover or mutation) point. Points far from the root are correspondingly less likely to hurt the child's survivability in the next generation. The modification point is in turn strongly correlated to average parent tree size and to removed subtree size, both of which are directly linked to the size of the resulting child.
Red light, green light: one teacher's variant on an old favorite [engineering education]

The author discusses a method of controlling the course delivery speed to engineering students. On the first day of class, the teacher hands out two pieces of paper-one red and one green. He then explains to the class that the red stands for STOP and the green for GO. The students are told that at any time during the term if they feel like the teacher is going too slowly they should simply wave a green sheet, if he is going too quickly, then wave a red sheet. No vocal signs are needed and no intelligent questions are required to get my attention.
Component Abilities of Spelling, Memory, and Motor Skill in Novices' Transcription Typing

Component abilities in transcription typing were examined among novice typists. The relations of spelling ability, memory for the keyboard, and motor skill to typing ability among male and female novice typists were considered. High school students, 138 girls and 130 boys, served as subjects. Students in one- and two-semester typing courses were tested for speed of typing and were administered a test battery that assessed component abilities. A keyboard memory task showed variability in the subjects' recall of key locations of letters of the alphabet. Knowledge of key locations was associated with faster typing speed. Spelling, memory for the keyboard, and motor skill positively correlated with typing speed, suggesting each is essential for good performance.
T cell subsets and sIL-2R/IL-2 levels in patients with glaucoma

Abstract PURPOSE: We hypothesize that cellular immunity may have a previously unrecognized role in glaucomatous optic neuropathy. The purpose of this study is to analyze subsets of T cells and the levels of cytokine IL-2 and the soluble IL-2 receptor in peripheral blood from patients with normal pressure glaucoma (NPG) or primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) in comparison to age-matched control subjects. METHODS: In this study, 38 patients (20 NPG; 18 POAG) and 19 controls were included. sIL-2R and IL-2 were assayed by ELISA. T cell subsets were analyzed by flow cytometry and lymphocyte proliferation was used to measure the reactive ability of T cells to phytohemagglutinin (PHA). RESULTS: The frequency of CD8 + HLA-DR + lymphocytes were increased in patients with NPG ( P = 0.008), and CD3 + CD8 + lymphocytes increased in both NPG ( P = 0.03) and POAG patients ( P = 0.0004). CD5 + lymphocytes were higher only in POAG patients ( P = 0.0012). In comparison to controls, the ratio of CD4 + /CD8 + lymphocytes was similar in both groups. The mean concentrations of sIL-2R in NPG ( P = 0.011) and POAG ( P = 0.0023) patients were higher than that found in control subjects although IL-2 concentrations were similar in these groups. In addition, the reactive ability of T lymphocytes to the non-specific reagent (PHA) was reduced significantly in NPG ( P = 0.02) and POAG patients ( P =0.04). CONCLUSION: The alterations of the cellular immune system in patients with glaucoma support our hypothesis that the immune system may play an important role in the initiation and/or sustainment of glaucomatous optic neuropathy in some patients.
Heat-Related Mortality in a Warming Climate: Projections for 12 U.S. Cities

Heat is among the deadliest weather-related phenomena in the United States, and the number of heat-related deaths may increase under a changing climate, particularly in urban areas. Regional adaptation planning is unfortunately often limited by the lack of quantitative information on potential future health responses. This study presents an assessment of the future impacts of climate change on heat-related mortality in 12 cities using 16 global climate models, driven by two scenarios of greenhouse gas emissions. Although the magnitude of the projected heat effects was found to differ across time, cities, climate models and greenhouse pollution emissions scenarios, climate change was projected to result in increases in heat-related fatalities over time throughout the 21st century in all of the 12 cities included in this study. The increase was more substantial under the high emission pathway, highlighting the potential benefits to public health of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Nearly 200,000 heat-related deaths are projected to occur in the 12 cities by the end of the century due to climate warming, over 22,000 of which could be avoided if we follow a low GHG emission pathway. The presented estimates can be of value to local decision makers and stakeholders interested in developing strategies to reduce these impacts and building climate change resilience.
Design issues for practical rigid disk magnetoresistive heads

Some of the issues of magnetoresistive (MR) head design are discussed from the point of view of practical, high-reliability, low-cost, manufacturable heads for rigid disk files. The major advantages of MR heads over single element inductive thin-film heads are that the MR head gives an ideal, easy to equalize output waveshape, can be used on disks with high coercivities for high linear densities, and is less subject to stability problems at narrow trackwidths. The major advantages of MR heads over metal-in-gap ferrite heads are in narrow trackwidth and high-frequency potential. Disadvantages of MR heads in the rigid disk environment include concerns about reliability and, more specifically, possible environmental fragility, loss of performance due to imperfect alignment between the read and write elements and/or due to signal asymmetry, and the possibility of higher cost/price. >
Vaccines for the Unvaccinated: Protecting the Herd

andcharacterizedbygenotypingandphenotyping. A significant and specific reduction in the prevalence of serogroup C meningococcal carriage was noted that lasted at least during the 2 years of the study, without evidence of new meningococcal serogroup replacement. Vaccine efficacy against serogroup C carriage was at least 75%, with a high impact on the virulent clonal complex of serogroup C meningococci associated with invasive meningococcal disease. The decreases in the prevalence of carriage correlated with reductions in serogroup C meningococcal disease in unvaccinated individuals; at least 50% of the effectiveness of the meningococcal serogroup C conjugate vac
Chains and Ladders: Exploring the Opportunities for Workforce Development and Poverty Reduction in the Hospital Sector

In this article, the authors investigate the potential of hospitals to offer low- and semiskilled workers employment and adva ncement options. This study uses the job chains approach to measuring economic development impacts devised by Persky, Felsenstein, and Carlson to compare hospitals with three other industries highly concentrated in central cities and examines the practical challenges facing workforce development professionals. The findings suggest that growth in hospital employment has the potential to outstrip the impact of growth in accommodations, legal services, and securities and commodities on the well-being of low-income workers and should prompt economic development practitioners to take the sector more seriously as a locus for attention and investment. To maximize welfare gain and distributional equity, economic development policy makers must accompany investments in health care–based economic development both with strategies to promote skills attainment and credentialing among low-paid health care workers and with formal strategies to facilitate upward movement.
EVOLUTIONARY DYNAMICS OF COMPLEX BIOMECHANICAL SYSTEMS: AN EXAMPLE USING THE FOUR-BAR MECHANISM

Like many phenotypic traits, biomechanical systems are defined by both an underlying morphology and an emergent functional property. The relationship between these levels may have a profound impact on how selection for functional performance is translated into morphological evolution. In particular, complex mechanical systems are likely to be highly redundant, because many alternative morphologies yield equivalent functions. We suggest that this redundancy weakens the relationship between morphological and functional diversity, and we illustrate this effect using an evolutionary model of the four-bar lever system of labrid fishes. Our results demonstrate that, when traits are complex, the morphological diversity of a clade may only weakly predict its mechanical diversity. Furthermore, parallel or convergent selection on function does not necessarily produce convergence in morphology. Empirical observations suggest that this weak form-function relationship has contributed to the morphological diversity of labrid fishes, as functionally equivalent species may nevertheless possess morphologically distinct jaws. We suggest that partial decoupling of morphology and mechanics due to redundancy is a major factor in morphological diversification.
Trends of occupational fatalities involving machines, United States, 1992-2010.

BACKGROUND: This paper describes trends of occupational machine-related fatalities from 1992-2010. We examine temporal patterns by worker demographics, machine types (e.g., stationary, mobile), and industries. METHODS: We analyzed fatalities from Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries data provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. We used injury source to identify machine-related incidents and Poisson regression to assess trends over the 19-year period. RESULTS: There was an average annual decrease of 2.8% in overall machine-related fatality rates from 1992 through 2010. Mobile machine-related fatality rates decreased an average of 2.6% annually and stationary machine-related rates decreased an average of 3.5% annually. Groups that continued to be at high risk included older workers; self-employed; and workers in agriculture/forestry/fishing, construction, and mining. CONCLUSION: Addressing dangers posed by tractors, excavators, and other mobile machines needs to continue. High-risk worker groups should receive targeted information on machine safety. Am. J. Ind. Med. Published 2015. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA. Language: en
Measurement of aerosol size distribution function using Mie scattering—Mathematical considerations

This paper analyzes the applications of Mie scattering to measure the size distribution function (SDF) of aerosols. Measurement of SDF by Mie scattering usually involves solving the Fredholm integral equations of the first kind based on discrete inputs with uncertainties (e.g., extinction measurements at multiple wavelengths or at multiple angles). A set of inputs which are not mutually independent within the measurement error implies that redundancy exists in the measurements and not all the measurements provide useful information for solving the integral equations. To avoid such redundancy, this paper develops a method to analyze the dependency among the kernel functions associated with Mie scattering. Applications of this method are demonstrated and the results provide valuable insights into the optimization of SDF measurement based on Mie scattering, in terms of minimizing the number of measurements needed and revealing the optimal wavelengths and angles to perform the measurements.
Monitoring a clinical trial with multiple hypotheses concerning the treatment effect on a single primary endpoint.

In a number of clinical trials there is interest in testing more than one hypothesis concerning the treatment effect on a single primary endpoint. For instance, a sponsor of a trial to demonstrate that a test treatment (T) is non-inferior to an active control (R) may also be interested in showing that T is superior to R, if this is the case. Using the closed testing method for constructing tests of multiple hypotheses which control the multiple level of significance, we provide a framework for testing these hypotheses sequentially during a trial at pre-planned interim analyses.
Elevated coated-platelets in symptomatic large-artery stenosis patients are associated with early stroke recurrence

Coated-platelets are a subset of platelets with increased procoagulant potential observed upon dual agonist stimulation with collagen and thrombin. These prothrombotic platelets are elevated in patients with non-lacunar ischemic stroke and decreased in patients with spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage compared to controls. We now investigated coated-platelet synthesis in patients with symptomatic large-artery stenosis and explored the association between coated-platelet levels and stroke recurrence at 3 months in this population. Coated-platelet levels were determined in 60 patients with either acute stroke or transient ischemic attack due to large-artery stenosis and 60 controls. Recurrent stroke incidence at 3 months was stratified by tertiles of coated-platelet levels and compared among groups using a log-rank test. Large-artery
Lipid extracted distillers dried grains with solubles (LE-DDGS) as a partial replacement for soybean meal in hybrid tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus × O. aureus) diets

Abstract Feed costs are primarily driven by the cost of protein sources in the feed. Substitution of expensive protein sources with lower cost ingredients would potentially reduce feed cost. Lipid-extracted distillers dried grains with solubles (LE-DDGS) is a relatively new product of distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) which could be used as an alternative protein source in tilapia feed formulations. Two growth trials were conducted to evaluate the substitution of soybean meal with LE-DDGS in practical diets for hybrid tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus × Oreochromis aureus). The first trial evaluated five levels of LE-DDGS (0, 200, 300, 400 and 500 g kg− 1) in a practical diet containing 360 g kg− 1 protein and 60 g kg− 1 lipid. The result indicated that increasing levels of LE-DDGS generally resulted in a reduced growth of hybrid tilapia with a significant (P Statement of relevance The present study can show that DDGS can be used as a substitution of soybean meal in tilapia fish. Given the rise in soybean meal prices, DDGS can be used in aquacultural feeds along with supplementation of lysine as a replacement of the more expensive plant derived protein source.
The Allure and Danger of Practicing Law as Taxonomy

In this article, I hope to contribute to the ongoing debate on how our society treats the problem of discrimination. Many scholars have criticized the types of antidiscrimination statutes we have enacted as well as the ways in which the courts have interpreted those laws. While I agree with many of these critiques, rather than tackle those very large issues at the outset, I focus on the test the courts currently use to evaluate the evidence to determine whether an inference can be made that discrimination has occurred. I argue that lawyers and courts have become so caught up in this evidentiary test that the test has redefined what discrimination is. The new definition bears little relation to the statutory language of the antidiscrimination laws or to the ways in which discrimination operates in our society. Therefore, I argue, we should discard it in favor of a vastly more simple test that asks at summary judgment simply whether a rational factfinder would be required to find that the challenged employment decision was taken only for reasons unrelated to discrimination or discriminatory beliefs. I draw on civil rights history to trace the development of our legal approach, psychological research on cognitive bias to discuss how we discriminate, and traditional legal analysis to demonstrate how far afield we have gotten from the original principles. I hope that my analysis will contribute to a more straightforward approach to evaluating evidence in discrimination cases, which will make it easier for both plaintiffs and defendants to present their cases. Additionally, it will offer the parties an opportunity to present evidence and to argue about how discrimination should be defined. This opportunity would allow judges and members of the public to better understand the complex ways in which discrimination continues to operate in our society. It will also promote debate on a subject that has remained hidden because the evidentiary test does not address it. As long as that issue remains hidden in discrimination cases, judges and juries can employ their own definitions, which will forever escape public scrutiny.
Investment Professionals and Fiduciary Duties

The distinction between brokers and investment advisers has become increasingly blurred over the past 30 years. In a 2011 study, the US SEC recommended that there be one uniform standard for both broker/dealers and investment advisers. In addition, all investment professionals could benefit from some standards. Through a review of market history, literature, and general principles from fiduciary relationships, some simple concepts emerge that could help investment professionals navigate the conflicts of interest that are inevitable given the often blended roles that they play in the financial markets.
Influence of Four Ground Cover Vegetation Types Used in North Carolina Fraser Fir Christmas Tree Plantations on Abundance and Species Composition of Phytoseiid Mites (Acari: Phytoseiidae)

A study was conducted to determine the utility of ground cover vegetation in managing the natural enemies of spruce spider mite (Oligonychus ununguis Jacobi) in Fraser fir production areas in 2 locations in North Carolina (Laurel Springs, Waynesville). Predatory phytoseiid mites were sampled by collecting vegetation from 4 ground cover species in experimental Fraser fir plots: white Dutch clover (Trifolium repens L.), mammoth red clover (Trifolium pretense L.), birdfoot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus L.), and fescue (Festuca spp.). The most abundant phytoseiid mite species were Typhlodromips sessor(DeLeon), Arrenoseius morgani(Chant), Proprioseiopsis solens (DeLeon), and Typhlodromalus peregrinus (Muma). There were no statistical differences in the effects of ground cover vegetation on phytoseiid mite abundance or diversity.
Exploring the average values of Boolean functions via asymptotics and experimentation

In recent years, there has been a great interest in studying Boolean functions by studying their analogous Boolean trees (with internal nodes labeled by Boolean gates; leaves viewed as inputs to the Boolean function). Many of these investigations consider Boolean functions of n variables and m leaves. Our study is related but has a quite different flavor. We investigate the mean output Xn of a Boolean function defined by a complete Boolean tree of depth n. Each internal node of such a tree is labeled with a Boolean gate, via 2n − 1 IID fair coin flips. The value of the input at each leaf can be simply fixed at 1/2, so the randomness of Xn derives only from the selection of the gates at the internal nodes. For each n, there are 2(2n − 1) possible Boolean binary trees to consider, so we cannot expect to obtain a complete description of the probability distribution of Xn for large n. Therefore, we perform a twofold investigation of the Xn, using both asymptotics and experiments. We prove that, with probability 1, Xn → 0 or Xn → 1. Then we directly compute the asymptotics of the first four moments of Xn. Writing Zn = Xn(1 − Xn), we also prove that E(Zn) and E(Z2n) are both Θ(1/n). Finally, we utilize C++ and a significant amount of computation and experimentation to obtain a more descriptive understanding of Xn for small values of n (say, n ≤ 100).
Mollaret's meningitis and enterovirus infection

Abstract Mollaret's meningitis is a rare form of meningitis characterised by recurrent episodes of aseptic lymphocytic meningitis in otherwise healthy individuals. These episodes are often mild and self-limiting, with symptom-free intervals and no long-term neurological sequelae. Herpes simplex virus infection is by far the most common infectious aetiology. We report a case of Mollaret's meningitis in an otherwise healthy 8-year-old girl who presented with three distinct episodes of aseptic meningitis and frequent headaches over a 2-year period. Polymerase chain reaction for enterovirus (EV) RNA in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was positive during her first episode. Diff Quik stained CSF preparations were positive for Mollaret cells during her second and third episodes. This is the first reported case of Mollaret's meningitis from EV infection. Early identification of the condition can avoid extensive investigations during recurrent episodes.
Buffon's Noodle Problem

(1969). Buffon's Noodle Problem. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 76, No. 8, pp. 916-918.
Vanillin based polymers: III. Electrochemical dimerization of vanillin revisited and synthesis of hydrovanilloin–formaldehyde polymer

Electrochemical dimerization of vanillin in basic medium produced mixtures of meso/DL-hydrovanilloins, in contrary to earlier claims of the formation of meso-hydrovanilloin as the sole product. In the reinvestigation we have found that meso-percentage depends on the current density and the highest meso-percentage of 94% is achieved under 64 mA/cm2 current density, using Pb electrodes and 1.25 M aqueous NaOH as the electrolyte. Condensation of the renewable resources based monomer hydrovanilloin with formaldehyde in aqueous NaOH gives hydrovanilloin–formaldehyde polymer in 91% yield. The linear polymer is shown to contain hydrovanilloin units with methylene bridges connecting C-6 positions of the aromatic rings.
Influence of noise characteristics on behavioral aftereffects.

Two experiments were performed which were designed to replicate and extend the findings of Glass and Singer and others on the aftereffects of noise on performance. In the first, subjects were expos...
Tubulin Tails are Intrinsically Disordered Polyanions that Regulate Binding to other Proteins by Sequence as Well as Charge

Microtubules (MT) are built by polymerization of the alpha/beta tubulin heterodimer. The two tubulins are very similar to each other and are composed of a globular body containing about 95% of the protein mass and an unstructured C-terminal tail (CTT) that contains about 40% of the protein's net negative charge. The CTT is the locus of most sequence differences between tubulin isotypes and also the target of most posttranslational modifications (PTMs). The tails extend from the tubulin body and from the outside surface of MT, and are often the first part of tubulin / MT that other proteins encounter. The high charge density on the tails can promote or oppose interaction interactions with other proteins. Surprisingly, perhaps, interactions with some proteins requires the negative charges, but are still highly modulated by sequence differences between tails from different isotypes. PTMs can add an additional, significant modulation of binding that can be determinative. Specific examples of each of these will be presented and discussed in the context of: Intrinsically Disordered Tails are Not Just Charged Strings.
Plays of the Nineties

In July of 1899 Shaw finished Captain Brassbound’s Conversion, the last of what he was to publish the following January as the Three Plays for Puritans. Having written the part of Lady Cicely for Ellen Terry, he sent the play off to her at once, and at the beginning of August while waiting for her reply — initially unfavourable, though six years later she did the role — he wrote to her mentioning his future plans: ‘And now no more plays — at least no more practicable ones. None at all, indeed, for some time to come: it is time to do something more in Shaw-philosophy, in politics & sociology. Your author, dear Ellen, must be more than a common dramatist’. Like most of Shaw’s letters to Ellen Terry this one has at least three entangled purposes: to carry on his fantasy romance with her, impassioned and yet safely literary; to further his long-term strategy of using the Irving-Terry Lyceum in the interests of the new drama; to further his short-term tactic of having Ellen Terry act in his new play. This comment of Shaw’s, however, does more than merely slither between flattery, in suggesting the uncommon status of dear Ellen’s author, and threat, in declaring that there will not be any suitable plays from him after this one.
Cavity Enhanced Nonlinear Optics with 2D Material

We report cavity nonlinear optical effects using 2D materials. We theoretically demonstrated the ability to reach single photon nonlinear optics. Experimental results on second-harmonic generation with SOI cavity are also presented.
A VIEW TOWARD SCHOOL/COMMUNITY-BASED MANAGEMENT: PERSPECTIVES OF PUBLIC SCHOOL PRINCIPALS IN AMERICAN SAMOA

The past few years have witnessed increasing efforts to upgrade the quality of education in American Samoa’s schools. In particular, efforts to increase both teachers’ and administrators’ competence have resulted in more rigorous standards for certification (Freese 1983). As an example, to attain (as well as retain) a principalship, a master’s degree is now required. Consequently, growing numbers of Samoan educators are traveling to U.S. colleges and universities to extend their education and training and meet new certification requirements. Along with the degrees earned, they bring back with them the influence of Western ideas, education, and values--albeit in varying ways and degrees. With broadened perspectives and increased knowledge of educational issues and trends, many educators have become increasingly critical of American Samoa’s highly centralized educational system. Not surprisingly, the concept of school/commun ity-based management (SCBM), an innovative approach to school organization and management, has sparked the interest of many of these educators. Representing a welcome change from the current top-down and highly restrictive administrative structure of American Samoa’s schools, SCBM has generated enthusiasm among both teachers and principals. Nonetheless, there is concern that conditions in Samoa may not be conducive to implementation of SCBM at the present time. The objective of this study is to describe and interpret education- and culture-related factors that might
Human Langerhans cells electroporated with Wilms’ tumor 1 mRNA induce antigen-specific cytolytic T lymphocytes

AACR Annual Meeting-- Apr 12-16, 2008; San Diego, CA 2849 The Wilms’ tumor 1 (WT1) gene encodes a transcription factor essential for cell growth and development. Overexpression of wild type WT1 occurs in many leukemias and solid tumors, where it correlates with poor prognosis. The WT1 protein may therefore provide a therapeutic target as a tumor-associated antigen (TAA). Vaccination protocols using peptide-pulsed dendritic cells (DCs) to induce anti-tumor responses, however, can only present defined epitopes restricted to certain human leukocyte antigens (HLA). In contrast, vaccination with mRNA-electroporated DCs could support processing and presentation of multiple TAA epitopes tailored to a patient’s own HLA. We have previously shown that human Langerhans-type dendritic cells (LCs) are the most potent DCs for stimulating CTL. We therefore electroporated immature LCs derived from CD34+ progenitors with human WT1 mRNA. These LCs were then matured by 48 hrs’ exposure to a standard inflammatory cytokine combination. 80% (±18, SD) of the electroporated LCs expressed the WT1 transgene up to 96 hours later, based on concomitant expression of a GFP reporter gene. After gating on HLA-DRbright, CD11bneg LCs, all of the WT1 mRNA and mock electroporated LCs exhibited a mature, activated phenotype characterized by CD86, CD80, and CD40 expression. More than 95% of these cells also displayed the prototypic DC activation marker, CD83. In an allogeneic mixed lymphocyte reaction, a standard assay of DC function, both WT1 mRNA and mock-electroporated LCs stimulated similar allogeneic T cell proliferation, comparable to positive control stimulation by PHA mitogen (n=3 expts). Moreover, after only seven days’ stimulation in vitro, WT1-electroporated LCs induced at least a 2-fold greater increase in Ag-specific T cell secretion of IFN-gamma by ELISpot, compared with mock-electroporated LCs. An additional seven days’ stimulation resulted in a further 3-to-4-fold increase in these Ag-specific effector T cells (n=2 expts to date). Intracellular cytokine staining further revealed that 35% of CD8+ and 18% of CD4+ T cells secreted IFN-gamma in response to WT1 electroporated-LCs, confirming presentation of both class I and II MHC-restricted epitopes. In a standard 51Cr release assay, T cells exhibited 80% specific lysis of a WT-1+ tumor cell line, compared with <20% specific lysis of a WT1neg cell line at an effector:target ratio of only 20:1, after only two 7d rounds of stimulation by WT1 mRNA electroporated LCs. These data demonstrate for the first time that WT1 mRNA-electroporated human LCs can elicit potent CD8+ cytolytic and CD4+ Th responses against a self or differentiation antigen that is strongly conserved in the mammalian genome and to which individuals should normally be tolerant. This approach merits further testing in vivo and would allow any individual with a WT1 expressing tumor to undergo vaccination by WT-1 mRNA electroporated LCs regardless of HLA type.
A Machine Learning Approach to Improve the Accuracy of GPS-Based Map-Matching Algorithms (Invited Paper)

Advanced map-matching algorithms use location and heading of GPS points along with geometrical and topological features of digital road networks to find the road segment on which the vehicle is moving. However, GPS errors sometimes impede map-matching algorithms in finding the correct segment, especially in dense and complicated parts of the network, such as near intersections with acute angles or on close parallel roads. In this paper an artificial neural network (ANN) approach is explored to improve the segment identification accuracy of map-matching algorithms. The proposed ANN is continuously trained by using the horizontal shift imposed on GPS points and once it is trained, it will be used to correct raw GPS points before inputting them into the map-matching algorithm. Integrating the proposed ANN enabled an existing map-matching algorithm to find the correct segments for some of the GPS points where the original map-matching algorithm had failed to do so.
Nortel sheds staff as bankruptcy bites

Thousands of jobs are under threat as bankrupt Nortel Networks – once Canada's largest telecoms company and a major employer of physicists – begins selling its divisions to satisfy creditors. Nortel, which employs 35 000 people worldwide, sold its wireless section to Sweden's Ericsson for C$ 1.13bn (£626m) in late July, but no buyers have yet been announced for other sectors.
Platelet Pathology in Carriers of X-Linked GATA-1 Macrothrombocyopenia.

Mutations in the X-linked hematopoietic transcription factor, GATA-1, have been associated with dyserythropoietic anemia, congenital erythropoietic porphyria and macrothrombocytopenia. Earlier we described the platelet pathology in 3 male members of a previously reported (Mehaffey M.G. et all: Blood . 2001; 98:2681–2688) family with the GATA-1 G208S mutation and serious bleeding problems. All were found to have giant hypogranular platelets with frequent tubular inclusions, parallel associated double membrane sheets connected to channels of the surface connected open canalicular system (OCS), platelets in platelets, and platelets attached to platelets. Their platelets spread normally on formvar grids, but the ability to bind von Willebrand factor (vWF) was half that of normal controls and limited to small multimers rather than the cargo net of large multimers bound by normal platelets. The present study has focused on platelets from four possible female carriers of the GATA-1 mutation in this family. All four of the women have had mild bleeding symptoms, close to normal platelet counts, slight increases in MPV, but no platelet abnormalities on peripheral blood smears. Thin sections of their platelets examined in the electron microscope revealed features consistent with the pathology observed in male family members. Most of their platelets were normal-sized, discoid cells containing the usual complement of alpha and delta storage organelles and channels of the dense tubular system and OCS. However, a significant member of giant platelets containing the usual frequency of alpha and delta granules and hypogranular and agranular giant platelets were observed. The frequency of the macrothrombocytes varied in each of the four women studied, but were present in all. The ability of their platelets to bind multimers of vWF, in contrast to male family members, did not differ from normal controls. Near normal as well as normal platelet counts and the ability of their platelets to bind vWF multimers may protect them from the serious bleeding problems of males with the X-linked GATA-1 G208S mutation. Our findings indicate that obligate female carriers of the GATA-1 gene can be detected by examination of their platelets in the electron microscope.
Interception of Multiple Low-Power Linear Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave Signals

Many modern radar systems are overcoming the need for high-power transmitters by utilizing low peak-power, high duty-cycle waveforms, making noncooperative detection methods by traditional electronic surveillance a difficult task. This technological difficulty is driving a need for computationally tractable detection and characterization algorithms. Here, a practical method for detecting and fully characterizing an arbitrary number of low-power linear frequency modulated continuous wave (LFMCW) radar signals is achieved by dividing the time-domain signal into contiguous segments and treating each signal segment as a sum of harmonic components corrupted by noise with an unknown, time-varying power spectral density. This method is developed analytically and evaluated experimentally, revealing that the practicality of the method comes at the ex-pense of a loss in estimation accuracy when compared to the Cramer–Rao lower bound. Experimental results indicate that the parameters of two simultaneous LFMCW signals can be estimated to within $10\%$ of their true values with probability greater than $90\%$ when input signal-to-noise ratios are $-$ 10 dB and above with a 25 MHz bandwidth receiver.
Boring is bad

Television has recently been described as being in a peak TV stage, with hundreds of engrossing, emotional narratives to choose from. Meanwhile, multitasking while viewing television is also at a peak stage. The present study examined enjoyment and signal detection memory outcomes in single-task and multitasking experimental conditions, where the primary task was watching positive, negative, and neutral television content, and the dual task condition permitted participants to go online on a second screen. Results demonstrate that multitasking viewing situations had negative effects on enjoyment and memory for non-emotional messages, but largely no effect when the primary task was viewing emotional messages. Specifically, multitasking was related to less enjoyment of neutral messages, lower recognition memory performance and sensitivity, and a more conservative criterion bias. The necessity of including the emotional content of messages as a variable when exploring memory and enjoyment in media multitasking situations is discussed. Enjoyment of viewing neutral TV messages decreased in a multitasking condition.Memory was better for emotional TV messages, and criterion biases were more liberal.Emotional content better predicted memory and enjoyment than multitasking condition.
Consistent Performance Differences between Children and Adults Despite Manipulation of Cue-Target Variables.

Two behavioral experiments assessed the plasticity and short-term improvement of task switching in 215 children and adults. Specifically, we studied developmental differences in manipulations of cued attention to different features of a target stimulus, as a way to assess the development of cognitive flexibility. Each experiment had multiple levels of difficulty via manipulation of number of cued features (2-4) and number of response options (2 or 4). Working memory demand was manipulated across the two experiments. Impact of memory demand and task level manipulations on task accuracy and response times were measured. There were three overall goals: First, these task manipulations (number of cued features, response choices, and working memory load) were tested to assess the stability of group differences in performance between children ages 6-16 years and adults 18-27 years, with the goal of reducing age group differences. Second, age-related transitions to adult-level performance were examined within subgroups of the child sample. Third, short-term improvement from the beginning to the end of the study session was measured to probe whether children can improve with task experience. Attempts to use task manipulations to reduce age differences in cued task switching performance were unsuccessful: children performed consistently worse and were more susceptible to task manipulations than adults. However, across both studies, adult-like performance was observed around mid-adolescence, by ages 13-16 years. Certain task manipulations, especially increasing number of response options when working memory demand was low, produced differences from adults even in the oldest children. Interestingly, there was similar performance improvement with practice for both child and adult groups. The higher memory demand version of the task (Experiment 2) prompted greater short-term improvement in accuracy and response times than the lower memory demand version (Experiment 1). These results reveal stable differences in cued switching performance over development, but also relative flexibility within a given individual over time.
Biological Plasticity and Performative Possibility in the Work of Catherine Malabou and Curious

Reading Catherine Malabou’s philosophy of synaptic plasticity with the performance company Curious’ exploration of gut feelings, Katie Schaag theorizes the promise and possibility of biological plasticity as performative and in live performance. She first argues that biological plasticity is structured through a dynamic oscillation between script (DNA) and performance (synaptic firing). Testing her theory of performative plasticity and complicating the relationship between performance art and performance in everyday life, she next suggests that Leslie Hill and Helen Paris’ Autobiology methodology makes possible a new form of durational performance: biological event as live art. Finally, through a reading of Malabou and Curious’ analysis of the lacuna between biology and biography, she proposes that we turn our attention to the performative plasticity of the second brain.