Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Handbook of Early Childhood Intervention: Family Assessment Within Early Intervention Programs

This chapter explores the context and processes of family assessment within early intervention programs for children with disabilities or developmental delays. Family assessments are now a routine, indeed mandated, practice in early intervention programs. Three primary reasons can be advanced for the value of family assessment for children with disabilities. First, family assessment recognizes explicitly the need to examine children's development within their most powerful context, that of the family. This requirement acknowledges that the development of young children is not biologically fixed but is conditioned to a large extent by their environment (Bronfenbrenner, 1992). Second, family assessment is grounded in the belief that parents can benefit from focused attention on their capacities for providing a nurturing, informed, and attentive environment for their children, particularly those with disabilities. Families' needs for information, guidance, and reassurance in the face of parenting a child with atypical development is presumed to be aided by a structured assessment of their current strengths, resources, and needs. Third, there is increasing recognition that the intensity and specificity of early intervention programs need to be tailored to the characteristics and functioning of the family in light of the child's disability or risk status (Guralnick, 1998). Despite the clarity of its rationale, implementation of family assessment reveals deep-seated ambivalence from both parents and early intervention professionals. In its traditional form, family assessment implies a process of fact-finding, evaluation, and professional judgment about the capacities and vulnerabilities of individual families to provide an optimal environment for the growth and development of their children.
Experimental Therapeutics , Molecular Targets , and Chemical Biology Disruption of Sphingosine 1-Phosphate Lyase Confers Resistance to Chemotherapy and Promotes Oncogenesis through Bcl-2 / Bcl-xL Upregulation

Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) is a bioactive sphingolipid metabolite involved in cancer development through stimulation of cell survival, proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis. Irreversible degradation of S1P is catalyzed by S1P lyase (SPL). The human SGPL1 gene that encodes SPL maps to a region often mutated in cancers. To investigate the effect of SPL deficiency on cell survival and transformation, the susceptibility to anticancer drugs of fibroblasts generated from SPLdeficient mouse embryos (Sgpl1) was compared with that of cells from heterozygous (Sgpl1) or wild-type (Sgpl1) embryos. First, loss of SPL caused resistance to the toxic effects of etoposide and doxorubicin. Interestingly, heterozygosity for the Sgpl1 gene resulted in partial resistance to apoptosis. Secondly, doxorubicin-induced apoptotic signaling was strongly inhibited in Sgpl1 cells (phosphatidylserine externalization, caspase activation, and cytochrome c release). This was accompanied by a strong increase in Bcl-2 and BclxL protein content. Whereas correction of SPL deficiency in Sgpl1 cells led to downregulation of antiapoptotic proteins, Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL small interfering RNA–mediated knockdown in SPL-deficient cells resulted in increased sensitivity to doxorubicin, suggesting that Bcl-2 upregulation mediates SPL protective effects. Moreover, SPL deficiency led to increased cell proliferation, anchorage-independent cell growth, and formation of tumors in nude mice. Finally, transcriptomic studies showed that SPL expression is downregulated in human melanoma cell lines. Thus, by affecting S1P metabolism and the expression of Bcl-2 members, the loss of SPL enhances cell resistance to anticancer regimens and results in an increased ability of cells to acquire a transformed phenotype and become malignant. [Cancer Res 2009;69(24):OF1–8]
Prolonging global connectivity in group-based industrial wireless sensor networks: poster abstract

Group connectivity is one of the major research challenges in large-scale industrial wireless sensor networks (IWSNs). Critical nodes (CNs) are mainly responsible to maintain group-connectivity. This article focuses on prioritize these CNs to sleep more than other nodes in order to save their energy resulting prolong global connectivity in group-based IWSNs.
The Part‐Time Job Satisfaction Puzzle: Different Types of Job Discrepancies and the Moderating Effect of Family Importance

Although part-time employment often appears as a substandard form of employment, evidence that part-time employees are less satisfied than full-time employees is ambiguous. To shed more light on this puzzle, I test an extended discrepancy theory framework using data from the German Socio-Economic Panel. The results help explain previous inconsistent findings: Part-time employment increases the chances of being underemployed while it reduces the likelihood of working more hours than preferred, and the negative effects of both types of working time mismatches on job satisfaction are similar in size. Furthermore, the importance attributed to family roles mitigates the negative effect of part-time employment on job satisfaction.
Optogenetic stimulation of infralimbic PFC reproduces ketamine’s rapid and sustained antidepressant actions

Significance Clinical studies report that a single, low dose of ketamine produces a rapid antidepressant response in treatment-resistant depressed patients. Although rodent studies have begun to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the behavioral actions of ketamine, the brain regions and cellular mechanisms have not been defined. Using a combination of pharmacological silencing and optogenetic stimulation approaches, the results of the current study demonstrate that ketamine infusion or optogenetic stimulation of the infalimbic prefrontal cortex produces antidepressant behavioral and synaptic responses similar to the actions of systemic ketamine. These findings further elucidate the mechanisms underlying the therapeutic actions of ketamine and will enhance the development of safer rapid-acting and efficacious agents. Ketamine produces rapid and sustained antidepressant actions in depressed patients, but the precise cellular mechanisms underlying these effects have not been identified. Here we determined if modulation of neuronal activity in the infralimbic prefrontal cortex (IL-PFC) underlies the antidepressant and anxiolytic actions of ketamine. We found that neuronal inactivation of the IL-PFC completely blocked the antidepressant and anxiolytic effects of systemic ketamine in rodent models and that ketamine microinfusion into IL-PFC reproduced these behavioral actions of systemic ketamine. We also found that optogenetic stimulation of the IL-PFC produced rapid and long-lasting antidepressant and anxiolytic effects and that these effects are associated with increased number and function of spine synapses of layer V pyramidal neurons. The results demonstrate that ketamine infusions or optogenetic stimulation of IL-PFC are sufficient to produce long-lasting antidepressant behavioral and synaptic responses similar to the effects of systemic ketamine administration.
Liquid-phase membrane extraction of targeted pesticides from manufacturing wastewaters in a hollow fibre contactor with feed-stream recycle

ABSTRACT A two-phase membrane extraction in a hollow fibre contactor with feed-stream recycle was applied to remove selected pesticides (tebufenozide, linuron, imidacloprid, acetamiprid and dimethoate) from their mixed aqueous solutions. The contactor consisted of 50 polypropylene hollow fibres impregnated with 5% tri-n-octylphosphine oxide in di-n-hexyl ether. For low-polar pesticides with log P ≥ 2 (tebufenozide and linuron), the maximum removal efficiency increased linearly from 85% to 96% with increasing the feed flow rate. The maximum removal efficiencies of more polar pesticides were significantly higher under feed recirculation (86%) than in a continuous single-pass operation (30%). It was found from the Wilson’s plot that the mass transfer resistance of the liquid membrane can be neglected for low-polar pesticides. The pesticide removals from commercial formulations were similar to those from pure pesticide solutions, indicating that built-in adjuvants did not affect the extraction process.
Investigation of the trade-off between time window length, classifier update rate and classification accuracy for restorative brain-computer interfaces

Recently, the application of restorative brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) has received significant interest in many BCI labs. However, there are a number of challenges, that need to be tackled to achieve efficient performance of such systems. For instance, any restorative BCI needs an optimum trade-off between time window length, classification accuracy and classifier update rate. In this study, we have investigated possible solutions to these problems by using a dataset provided by the University of Graz, Austria. We have used a continuous wavelet transform and the Student t-test for feature extraction and a support vector machine (SVM) for classification. We find that improved results, for restorative BCIs for rehabilitation, may be achieved by using a 750 milliseconds time window with an average classification accuracy of 67% that updates every 32 milliseconds.
Mobile robot localization using feature based fuzzy map matching

This paper presents a novel scan matching approach entitled Fuzzy Map Matching for mobile robot localization that extracts low level features in the form of line segment from perceptual channels that are then matched to a map given a priori. Multiple candidate matches are supported through the use of fuzzy logic, which are iteratively refined. This probabilistic based fuzzy model of scan matching is used to filter the alignment combination that have low probability in order to reduce computational complexity. In addition, the initial pose of the robot does not have to be known as a result of support for multiple hypotheses with respect to potential correspondences. Incomplete line segments that result from incomplete scans, noisy sensors, or occlusion do not present a problem as features in observation space are grown during the correspondence phase of the algorithm. This approach does not impose a heavy demand on computational resources, and is significantly less resource hungry than the probabilistic approaches. Initial results demonstrated that the algorithm performs well in real world environments.
Attack-resilient state estimation in the presence of noise

We consider the problem of attack-resilient state estimation in the presence of noise. We focus on the most general model for sensor attacks where any signal can be injected via the compromised sensors. An l0-based state estimator that can be formulated as a mixed-integer linear program and its convex relaxation based on the l1 norm are presented. For both l0 and l1-based state estimators, we derive rigorous analytic bounds on the state-estimation errors. We show that the worst-case error is linear with the size of the noise, meaning that the attacker cannot exploit noise and modeling errors to introduce unbounded state-estimation errors. Finally, we show how the presented attack-resilient state estimators can be used for sound attack detection and identification, and provide conditions on the size of attack vectors that will ensure correct identification of compromised sensors.
Establishment of Mouse Pancreatic Stem Cell Line

β-Cell replacement therapy via islet transplantation is a promising possibility for the optimal treatment of type 1 diabetes. However, such an approach is severely limited by the shortage of donor organs. Pancreatic stem/progenitor cells could become a useful target for β-cell replacement therapy in diabetic patients because the cells are abundantly available in the pancreas of these patients and in donor organs. In this study, we established a mouse pancreatic stem cell line without genetic manipulation. The duct-rich population after islet isolation was inoculated into 96-well plates in limiting dilution. From over 200 clones, 15 clones were able to be cultured for over 3 months. The HN#13 cells, which had the highest expression of insulin mRNA after induction, expressed PDX-1 transcription factor, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor, and cytokeratin-19 (duct-like cells). These cells continue to divide actively beyond the population doubling level (PDL) of 300. Exendin-4 treatment and transduction of PDX-1 and NeuroD proteins by protein transduction technology in HN#13 cells induced insulin and pancreas-related gene expression. This cell line could be useful for analyzing pancreatic stem cell differentiation. Moreover, the isolation technique might be useful for identification and isolation of human pancreatic stem/progenitor cells.
Intraretinal lipid transport is dependent on high density lipoprotein-like particles and class B scavenger receptors.

PURPOSE In our companion paper we demonstrated that circulating lipoproteins enter the retina via the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and possibly Müller cells. In order to understand how these lipids are transported within the retina, expression and localization of the main proteins known to be involved in systemic lipid transport was determined. METHODS Expression of ABCA1, apoA1 (the major HDL protein), SR-BI, SR-BII, CD36, lecithin:cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT), and cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) was determined by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and immunoblots. Localization was determined by immunohistochemistry using fresh monkey vibrotome sections and imaged by confocal microscopy. RESULTS ABCA1 and apoA1 were localized to the ganglion cell layer, retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), and rod photoreceptor inner segments. ApoA1 was also observed associated with rod photoreceptor outer segments, presumably localized to the interphotoreceptor matrix (IPM). The scavenger receptors SR-BI and SR-BII localized mainly to the ganglion cell layer and photoreceptor outer segments; in the latter they appear to be associated with microtubules. LCAT and CETP localized mainly to the IPM. CONCLUSIONS The presence and specific localization of these well-known lipid transport proteins suggest that the retina employs an internal lipid transport mechanism that involves processing and maturation of HDL-like particles.
Linear-Time Rule Induction

The recent emergence of data mining as a major application of machine learning has led to increased interest in fast rule induction algorithms. These are able to efficiently process large numbers of examples, under the constraint of still achieving good accuracy. If e is the number of examples, many rule learners have O(e4) asymptotic time complexity in noisy domains, and C4.5RULES has been empirically observed to sometimes require O(e3). Recent advances have brought this bound down to O(elog2 e), while maintaining accuracy at the level of C4.5RULES's. In this paper we present CWS, a new algorithm with guaranteed O(e) complexity, and verify that it outperforms C4.5RULES and CN2 in time, accuracy and output size on two large datasets. For example, on NASA's space shuttle database, running time is reduced from over a month (for C4.5RULES) to a few hours, with a slight gain in accuracy. CWS is based on interleaving the induction of all the rules and evaluating performance globally instead of locally (i.e., it uses a "conquering without separating" strategy as opposed to a "separate and conquer" one). Its bias is appropriate to domains where the underlying concept is simple and the data is plentiful but noisy.
Rates of forgetting on three measures of verbal learning using retention intervals ranging from 20 min to 62 days

Previous research has examined age effects in rates of forgetting at short delay intervals of 20–30 min. The present study examined age effects in three verbal memory tasks at longer delay intervals of up to 62 days. Study participants consisted of 371 community-dwelling men and women comprising three age groups 20–39, 40–59, and 60–79 years. Age differences in acquisition and 20-min delayed recall were found on each of the memory tasks (paragraph, word list, and word pairs). However, all age groups showed equivalent rates of forgetting after this short delay interval. When participants were required to retain information for longer delay intervals (i.e., 1–62 days), increasing age was associated with faster rates of forgetting for day 1, but not over longer delay intervals. Age differences in rates of forgetting for longer delay intervals and the facilitating effects of prompted recall are discussed in terms of encoding and storage versus retrieval processes. (JINS, 2001, 7, 79–91.)
Retroperitoneal extrarenal angiomyolipoma at the surgical bed 8 years after a renal angiomyolipoma nephrectomy: A case report and review of literature

Retroperitoneal extrarenal angiomyolipoma (RERAML) are rare and close mimickers of retroperitoneal liposarcoma on both imaging and histopathology. However, imaging findings including heterogeneity, hyperdensity on unenhanced computed tomography, intralesional hemorrhage, absence of calcifications, low signal intensity on T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging, and dilated intratumoral vessels can lead to the diagnosis of RERAML. Diagnosis of RERAML can avoid unnecessary surgery since conservative medical management with continued surveillance has been proven to be effective for RERAML whereas surgical resection is the treatment for liposarcoma. Imaging and laboratory follow-up for at least 5 years has been recommended in patients who underwent surgical resection of angiomyolipoma (AML). We present a case of RERAML in an asymptomatic patient whose AML recurred in the surgical bed 8 years after an ipsilateral nephrectomy for renal AML.
Motivational congruency and discrepancy of hawaiian athletic trainers.

Motivation is an integral part of an effective organizational management scheme. In March 1992, we sent a survey designed to assess motivational preference to all certified athletic trainers in the State of Hawaii. The population included: 6 high school athletic trainers, 10 university athletic trainers, and 9 clinic athletic trainers. The surveys were completed and returned by 80% of the population. With the exception of being an integral part of a work team (p<.05), athletic trainers in the State of Hawaii showed little discrepancy in terms of motivation. Further, there are differences among the three groups of athletic trainers in rating the importance of motivators concerning being appreciated, receiving raises, and being an integral part of a team (p< .05) Differences in motivational factors among these three groups could be influenced by the organizational structure in which the athletic trainers operate. Further investigation should include a mainland population that includes athletic trainers in professional sports and the industrial setting.
An integrated GUI design tool for digitally controlled switching DC-DC converter

Despite significant advantages over analog counterparts, digital controllers for switching DC-DC converters demand the use of different tools such as MATLAB/SIMULINK and Verilog-AMS to model and simulate the design. As a consequence, this inevitably complicates the design procedure. A novel approach is therefore proposed to simplify the process. By using the GUI-based tool developed, the controller for digitally controlled buck converter can be automatically designed and implemented with Verilog HDL under a unique and consistent MATLAB/SIMULINK environment. Verification results of both system-level and mixed-level models are given to show the validity of the proposed design approach.
Bile-acid-activated farnesoid X receptor regulates hydrogen sulfide production and hepatic microcirculation.

AIM To investigate whether the farnesoid X receptor (FXR) regulates expression of liver cystathionase (CSE), a gene involved in hydrogen sulfide (H(2)S) generation. METHODS The regulation of CSE expression in response to FXR ligands was evaluated in HepG2 cells and in wild-type and FXR null mice treated with 6-ethyl chenodeoxycholic acid (6E-CDCA), a synthetic FXR ligand. The analysis demonstrated an FXR responsive element in the 5'-flanking region of the human CSE gene. The function of this site was investigated by luciferase reporter assays, chromatin immunoprecipitation and electrophoretic mobility shift assays. Livers obtained from rats treated with carbon tetrachloride alone, or in combination with 6-ethyl chenodeoxycholic acid, were studied for hydrogen sulphide generation and portal pressure measurement. RESULTS Liver expression of CSE is regulated by bile acids by means of an FXR-mediated mechanism. Western blotting, qualitative and quantitative polymerase chain reaction, as well as immunohistochemical analysis, showed that expression of CSE in HepG2 cells and in mice is induced by treatment with an FXR ligand. Administration of 6E-CDCA to carbon tetrachloride treated rats protected against the down-regulation of CSE expression, increased H(2)S generation, reduced portal pressure and attenuated the endothelial dysfunction of isolated and perfused cirrhotic rat livers. CONCLUSION These results demonstrate that CSE is an FXR-regulated gene and provide a new molecular explanation for the pathophysiology of portal hypertension.
Maternal stress, sleep, and well-being in mothers of middle age children with developmental disabilities

________________________________________ Date This dissertation meets the format and style requirements established by the School of Nursing and Health Professions. It is acceptable for binding, for placement in the University Library and Achieves, and for reproduction and distribution to the scholarly and lay community by University Microfilms International. In presenting this dissertation as a partial fulfillment of the requirements for an advanced degree from Georgia State University, I agree that the Library of the University shall make it available for inspection and circulation in accordance with its regulations governing materials of this type. I agree that permission to quote from, to copy from, or to publish this dissertation may be granted by the author or in his/her absence, by the professor under whose direction it was written or in his/her absence, by the Associate Director for Graduate Programs in Nursing, Byrdine F. Lewis School of Nursing and Health Professions. Such quoting, copying, or publishing must be solely for scholarly purposes and will not involve potential financial gain. It is understood that any coping from or publication of this dissertation which involves potential financial gain will not be allowed without written permission from the author. Jiwon Lee ! iii! NOTICE TO BORROWERS All dissertations deposited in the Georgia State University Library must be used in accordance with the stipulations prescribed by the author in the preceding statement. Users of this dissertation not regularly enrolled as students at Georgia State University are required to attest acceptance of the preceding stipulations by signing below. Libraries borrowing this dissertation for the use of their patrons are required to see that each use records here the information requested.