Digital Commons Network^™

Web-Based Student Data Collection And Assessment, Thomas J. Bensky

Physics

Gathering information from students for learning assessment is a critical need of any teacher. In this paper, the tech-savvy instructor is introduced to basic techniques of creating custom, web-based, student-data collection software. Despite widespread deployment of generalized course management systems, the author argues that small, ultra-customized data collection methodologies, can be of great help in collecting and assessing student input, reducing demands on paper, and easing the familiar grading bottleneck while satisfying an individual's pedagogical needs.

Challenging Computer Software Frontiers And The Human Resistance To Change, Jens Pohl

Architecture

This paper examines the driving and opposing forces that are governing the current paradigm shift from a data-processing information technology environment without software intelligence to an information-centric environment in which data changes are automatically interpreted withinthe context of the application domain. The driving forces are related to the large quantity of dataand the complexity of networked systems that both call for software intelligence. The opposing forces are non-technical and due to the natural human resistance to change.

Based on this background the paper describes current information-centric technology, proposes avision of intelligent software system capabilities, and identifies four areas of necessary …

Teaching And Learning With Traditional Indigenous Knowledge In The Tall Grass Plains, Kathleen J. Martin, James J. Garrett

Ethnic Studies

This article presents the work of American Indian and Indigenous college students in the United States on a native and heritage plant restoration project at a tribal college. It supports an interdisciplinary approach to studying the natural sciences, and situates the acquisition of knowledge within Dakota oral tradition. Students learned about the grass plains environment and Dakota environmental ethics, sovereignty and values from Traditional Indigenous and Ecological Knowledge (TIKlTEK). The "plant tribes" helped their human caretakers learn important qualities of care and respect. Also included is an educational model based on the project and recommendations for the use of narrative …

Effects Of Yogurt Starter Cultures On The Survival Of Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Elizabeth W. Ng, Marie Yeung, Phillip S. Tong

Biological Sciences

Recognized to confer health benefits to consumers, probiotics such as Lactobacillus acidophilus are commonly incorporated into fermented dairy products worldwide; among which yogurt is a popular delivery vehicle. To materialize most of the putative health benefits associated with probiotics, an adequate amount of viable cells must be delivered at the time of consumption. However, the loss in their viabilities during refrigerated storage has been demonstrated previously. This study focused on the effects of yogurt starter cultures on the survival of five strains of L. acidophilus, with emphases on low pH and acid production. Differential survival behavior between L. acidophilus strains …

Programmable Diagnostic Devices Made From Paper And Tape, Andres W. Martinez, Scott T. Phillips, Zhihong Nie, Chao-Min Cheng, Emanuel Carrilho, Benjamin J. Wiley, George M. Whitesides

Chemistry and Biochemistry

This paper describes three-dimensional microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (3-D μPADs) that can be programmed (postfabrication) by the user to generate multiple patterns of flow through them. These devices are programmed by pressing single-use ‘on’ buttons, using a stylus or a ballpoint pen. Pressing a button closes a small space (gap) between two vertically aligned microfluidic channels, and allows fluids to wick from one channel to the other. These devices are simple to fabricate, and are made entirely out of paper and double-sided adhesive tape. Programmable devices expand the capabilities of μPADs and provide a simple method for controlling the movement …

Millimeter-Scale Contact Printing Of Aqueous Solutions Using A Stamp Made Out Of Paper And Tape, Chao-Min Cheng, Aaron D. Mazzeo, Jinlong Gong, Andres W. Martinez, Scott T. Phillips, Nina Jain, George M. Whitesides

Chemistry and Biochemistry

This communication describes a simple method for printing aqueous solutions with millimeter-scale patterns on a variety of substrates using an easily fabricated, paper-based microfluidic device (a paper-based ―stamp‖) as a contact printing device. The device is made from inexpensive materials, and it is easily assembled by hand; this method is thus accessible to a wide range of laboratories and budgets. A single device was used to print over 2500 spots in less than three minutes at a density of 16 spots per square centimetre. This method provides a new tool to pattern biochemicals—reagents, antigens, proteins, and DNA—on planar substrates. The …

The Systemic Correlation Between Mental Models And Sustainable Design: Implications For Engineering Educators, Linda Vanasupa, Roger Burton, Jonathan Stolk, Julie B. Zimmerman, Larry J. Leifer, Paul T. Anastas

Materials Engineering

Many studies have illuminated our understanding of the kinds of competencies and behaviors exhibited by effective designers. Against the backdrop of global challenges made more urgent by unintentional negative impacts of engineered products and systems, however, we are left to deduce that our ways of educating engineering designers is fundamentally flawed. We assert that one can trace the cause of our collective, unintended negative consequences to the mental models of reality that we consciously or unconsciously carry. In this paper, we present the case for developing awareness and facility with mental models. We also suggest an alternate mental model as …

William H. Hannon Library Year In Review 2009 – 2010, William H. Hannon Library

William H. Hannon Year-in-Reviews

No abstract provided.

Using On‐Line Data Sources To Allow Students To Test Hypotheses About River Flow And Effects On Remotely Sensed Coastal Ocean Properties., Lawrence B. Cohoon, Kristin M. Hardy, Dustin M. Allen

Biological Sciences

This exercise shows students how to relate remotely sensible properties of coastal waters to variations in river discharge using on‐line data resources. Students can then test hypotheses about the effects of climate changes (drought and wet periods), anthropogenic impacts (urbanized, agricultural, or undeveloped watersheds), or seasonality on river discharges and their consequences, if any, on coastal water quality as determined from remotely sensed properties. River flow has been measured for various periods of time, in some cases from almost the beginning of the 20^th century, at many locations throughout the U.S. by the U.S. Geological Survey, with data on …

On The Value Of Philosophy: The Latin American Case, Manuel R. Vargas

Philosophy

There is very little study of Latin American philosophy in the English-speaking philosophical world. This can sometimes lead to the impression that there is nothing of philosophical worth in Latin American philosophy or its history. The present article offers some reasons for thinking that this impression is mistaken, and indeed, that we ought to have more study of Latin American philosophy than currently exists in the English-speaking philosophical world. In particular, the article argues for three things: (1) an account of cultural resources that is useful for illuminating the fact of cultural differences and variations in cultural complexity, (2) a …

Attractor Divergence As A Metric For Assessing Walking Balance, Max J. Kurz, Katerina Markopoulou, Nikolaos Stergiou

Journal Articles

: Individuals with Parkinson's disease and the aged have a high prevalence of falls. Since an increase in the number of falls is associated with physical and psychological harm, it is prudent that biomechanical metrics be established that will accurately assess an individual's walking balance. In this investigation, we initially used a simple bipedal walking computer model to theoretically establish the relationship between attractor divergence and walking balance. The Lyapunov exponent was used to quantify the amount of divergence present in the walking attractor. Simulations from our model indicated that attractors that have a greater amount of divergence are more …

Dealing With Mycotoxin-Contaminated Feeds At Feeding Time, Alvaro Garcia, Bob Thaler

SDSU Extension Extra Archives

Under ideal conditions, livestock should be fed grains and byproducts that are “clean” (i.e., free of fungi and/or mycotoxins). Although feeding clean grains and byproducts is ideal, there are times when clean grains are not available locally and farm finances do not allow for substitution of home-harvested grain with purchased grain. When grains or feeds test positive for mycotoxins, there are several approaches that can be taken to reduce the toxic effects to livestock.

Transforming Growth Factor - Beta (Tgfß) Stimulated Isoform Specific Activation Of Akt2 Via Ras Mediates Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (Emt), Praveen Chander

ETD Archive

TGFß induces epithelial-mesenchymal transdifferentiation (EMT) accompanied by cellular differentiation and migration. EMT has emerged as a fundamental process governing embryonic development, adult tissue homeostasis and metastatic progression. Our lab had earlier identified a post-transcriptional pathway by which TGFß modulates expression of EMT-specific proteins. It was shown that heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein E1 (hnRNP E1) binds a structural, 33 nucleotides (nt) TGF beta-activated translation (BAT) element in the 3'-UTR of disabled-2 (Dab2) and interleukin-like EMT inducer (ILEI)transcripts, and repress their translation. This inhibition is removed following hnRNP E1 phosphorylation by activated Akt2. We now show that specific activation of Akt2, and not …

2010-2011 Undergraduate Catalog, Sacred Heart University

Graduate & Undergraduate Catalogs

No abstract provided.

First Look 2010, Nova Southeastern University

First Look

No abstract provided.

Horizons Spring 2010, Nova Southeastern University

Horizons

• Features
  • Celebration of Excellence 8
  • Learning More by Giving More 10
  • NSU Oceanographic Center’s Research 14
  • Revealing Spaces 18
  • Beyond the Bookshelves 20
  • Fred Lippman: A Passion for Education 22
  • Younger Students Get a Taste of the Workplace 36
• Departments
  • Letter from the Chancellor 2
  • Academic Notes
    • University School Art Institute 3
    • Health Professions Degrees Expand Across Florida 3
  • Around Campus
    • NSU Home to Special Olympics Chapter 4
    • An Accent on Scholarship 5
    • Messengers of Peace Speak at NSU 13
  • Q & A
    • New Dean Gets Down to Business 6
    • Collaboration Key to Establishment of New Division 7
  • Spotlight
    • M.B.A. …

Computational Models Of Thermal Cycling In Chemical Systems, Carl Barratt, Dante Lepore, Matthew Cherubini, Pauline Schwartz

Mechanical and Industrial Engineering Faculty Publications

Computational models of chemical systems provide clues to counterintuitive interactions and insights for new applications. We have been investigating models of chemical reaction systems under forced, thermal cycling conditions and have found that some hypothetical processes generate higher yields under thermal cycling than under single, fixed temperature conditions. A simple kinetic model of an actual process, the two-temperature polymerase chain reaction that replicates DNA, is used to simulate the important features of a chemical system operating under thermal cycling. This model provides insights into the design of other chemical systems that may have important applications in chemistry, biochemistry and chemical …

"Passing" And Identity: A Literary Perspective On Gender And Sexual Diversity, Pamela L. Caughie

English: Faculty Publications and Other Works

For the literary scholar as for the gender theorist, truth is what makes sense in terms of a particular narrative. What is true is not simply that which corresponds to the real; rather, what is true is what is accepted as being true within a given discourse, institution, or discipline. Unlike biologists, literary scholars don’t ask “Is it true?” but “How is it true?” This question requires interrogating the normative standards by which claims of truth, authenticity, and legitimacy are established. And that means learning to read people the way many of us have learned to read literature, taking into …

Ua56/1 Fact Book, Wku Institutional Research

WKU Administration Documents

Statistical and demographic profile of WKU.

Hot Water, Dry Streams: A Tale Of Two Trout, Jack R. Tuholske

All In-stream Flows Material

Norman Maclean’s timeless memoir A River Runs Through It begins with the reflection that in his household “there was no clear line between religion and fly fishing.”¹ That zeal remains today; nearly 30 million Americans call themselves fishermen.² Anglers devoted an aggregate of 517 million user-days pursuing their passion in 2006 and spent billions of dollars to support it.³ Fishing in the western United States holds a special place in fishing lore the world over and for good reason. From the great trout waters of Montana, to the salmon-laden rivers of the west coast, to the sparkling …

Genetic Characteristics And Environmental Parameters For Growing Turfgrass In Closed And Retractable Dome Stadiums, Bruce Bugbee, Paul Johnson

Turfgrass

Our analysis indicates that electric lighting for turfgrass growth is highly cost effective, if it is coupled with appropriate genetic and environmental changes.

Inadequate light levels for vigorous turf growth is the key challenge associated with growing turf in enclosed and retractable dome stadiums. The light levels of closed stadiums are too low to maintain vigorous plant growth that can quickly recover from the damage caused by athletic events. As a solution, retractable-dome stadiums have been built. However, even with the roof open, light levels in these stadiums are less than half of natural sunlight because of shading from the …

Virginia Commonwealth University Graduate And Professional Programs Bulletin [2010], Virginia Commonwealth University

VCU Bulletins

Graduate and professional programs bulletin for Virginia Commonwealth University for the academic year 2010-2011. It includes information on academic regulations, degree requirements, course offerings, faculty, academic calendar, and tuition and expenses for graduate programs.

Virginia Commonwealth University Undergraduate Bulletin Courses [2010], Virginia Commonwealth University

VCU Bulletins

Listing of undergraduate courses for 2010-2011.

Male Red-Winged Blackbirds With Experimentally Dulled Epaulets Experience No Disadvantage In Sexual Selection, Ken Yasukawa, David A. Enstrom, Patricia G. Parker, Thomas C. Jones

Biology Department Faculty Works

The epaulets of male Red-winged Blackbirds (Agelaius phoeniceus) are frequently cited as a sexually selected plumage ornament, but a number of laboratory and field studies provide little evidence that they are currently experiencing sexual selection. We used hair dye to dull epaulets of free-living territorial males prior to pair formation to determine if manipulated males experienced disadvantages in comparison with control males. We found no differences between control males and males with dulled epaulets in territorial behavior (territory size, song rate, trespass rate, and loss of territory), paternal care (time spent on territory and in antipredator sentinel behavior, and response …

Competition Drives Specialization In Pollination Systems Through Costs To Male Fitness, Nathan Muchhala, Zachary Brown, W. Armbruster, Matthew Potts

Biology Department Faculty Works

No abstract provided.

Retrospective, 2010, University Of Arkansas, Fayetteville. Libraries

Retrospective

No abstract provided.

Major Depression And The Metabolic Syndrome, Debra L. Foley, Katherine I. Morley, Pamela A.F. Madden, Andrew C. Heath, John B. Whitfield, Nicholas G. Martin

Open Access Publications

No abstract provided.

Southern Encounters In The City: Reconfiguring The South From The Liminal Space, Eveljn Ferraro

Modern Languages & Literature

In Il pensiero meridiano, sociologist Franco Cassano claims that the cultural autonomy of the South hinges upon a radical redefinition of the relationship between South and North. Dominant representations of the South as a “not-yet North”1 (Cassano viii), always imperfectly mimicking a more advanced North, found themselves on the idea of a linear transition from backwardness to development where the differences are often reduced to a matter of time. If Gramsci, in The Southern Question, deconstructed the Italian North/South binarism by suggesting potential alliances among non-dominant groups (namely, Northern workers and Southern peasants), Cassano proposes a spatial rethinking of the …

Fur Versus Feathers: Pollen Delivery By Bats And Hummingbirds, And Consequences For Pollen Production, Nathan Muchhala, James Thomson

Biology Department Faculty Works

One floral characteristic associated with bat pollination (chiropterophily) is copious pollen production, a pattern we confirmed in a local comparison of hummingbird- and bat-adapted flowers from a cloud forest site in Ecuador. Previous authors have suggested that wasteful pollen transfer by bats accounted for the pattern. Here we propose and test a new hypothesis: bats select for increased pollen production because they can efficiently transfer larger amounts of pollen, which leads to a more linear male fitness gain curve for bat-pollinated plants. Flight cage experiments with artificial flowers and flowers of Aphelandra acanthus provide support for this hypothesis; in both …

Reactive Oxygen Species Induced Cytokine Production And Cytotoxicity Of Pamam Dendrimers In J774a.1 Cells, Pratap Naha, Maria Davoren, Fiona Lyng, Hugh Byrne

Articles

The immunotoxicity of three generations of polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimers (G-4, G-5 and G-6) was evaluated in mouse macrophage cells in vitro. Using the Alamar blue and MTT assays, a generation dependent cytotoxicity of the PAMAM dendrimers was found whereby G-6 > G-5 > G-4. The toxic response of the PAMAM dendrimers correlated well with the number of surface primary amino groups, with increasing number resulting in an increase in toxic response. An assessment of intracellular ROS generation by the PAMAM dendrimers was performed by measuring the increased fluorescence as a result of intracellular oxidation of Carboxy H2DCFDA to DCF both quantitatively using …