bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioluminescence Imaging of Spheroids for High‐throughput Longitudinal Studies on 3D Cell Culture Models
Authors: Cevenini Luca , Calabretta Maria M. , Lopreside Antonia , Branchini Bruce R. , Southworth Tara L. , Michelini Elisa , Roda Aldo
Published: January 2017

Bioluminescent (BL) cell‐based assays based on two‐dimensional (2D) monolayer cell cultures represent well‐established bioanalytical tools for preclinical screening of drugs. However, cells in 2D cultures do not often reflect the morphology and functionality of living organisms, thus limiting the predictive value of 2D cell‐based assays. Conversely, 3D cell models have the capability to generate the extracellular matrix and restore cell‐to‐cell communications; thus, they are the most suitable model to mimic in vivo physiology. In this work, we developed a nondestructive real‐time BL imaging assay of spheroids for longitudinal studies on 3D cell models. A high‐throughput BL 3D cell‐based assay in micropatterned 96‐well plate format is reported. The assay performance was assessed using the transcriptional regulation of nuclear factor K beta response element in human embryonic kidney (HEK293) cells. We compared concentration–response curves for tumor necrosis factor‐α with those obtained using conventional 2D cell cultures. One of the main advantages of this approach is the nonlysing nature of the assay, which allows for repetitive measurements on the same sample. The assay can be implemented in any laboratory equipped with basic cell culture facilities and paves the way to the development of new 3D bioluminescent cell‐based assays.
A Comparison of Dose Metrics to Predict Local Tumor Control for Photofrin‐mediated Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Qiu Haixia , Kim Michele M. , Penjweini Rozhin , Finlay Jarod C. , Busch Theresa M. , Wang Tianhao , Guo Wensheng , Cengel Keith A. , Simone Charles B. , Glatstein Eli , Zhu Timothy C.
Published: January 2017

This preclinical study examines light fluence, photodynamic therapy (PDT) dose and “apparent reacted singlet oxygen,” [1O2]rx, to predict local control rate (LCR) for Photofrin‐mediatedPDTof radiation‐induced fibrosarcoma (RIF) tumors. Mice bearingRIFtumors were treated with in‐air fluences (50–250 J cm−2) and in‐air fluence rates (50–150 mW cm−2) at Photofrin dosages of 5 and 15 mg kg−1and a drug‐light interval of 24 h using a 630‐nm, 1‐cm‐diameter collimated laser. A macroscopic model was used to calculate [1O2]rxandPDTdose based onin vivoexplicit dosimetry of the drug concentration, light fluence and tissue optical properties.PDTdose and [1O2]rxwere defined as a temporal integral of drug concentration and fluence rate, and singlet oxygen concentration consumed divided by the singlet oxygen lifetime, respectively.LCRwas stratified for different dose metrics for 74 mice (66 + 8 control). Complete tumor control at 14 days was observed for [1O2]rx≥ 1.1 mmorPDTdose ≥1200 μmJ cm−2but cannot be predicted with fluence alone.LCRincreases with increasing [1O2]rxandPDTdose but is not well correlated with fluence. Comparing dosimetric quantities, [1O2]rxoutperformed bothPDTdose and fluence in predicting tumor response and correlating withLCR.
Polls and Elections: Conventional Wisdom: Political Learning During Presidential Nominating Conventions
Authors: Weinschenk Aaron C.
Published: January 2017

Debates about whether presidential nominating conventions are useful institutions in American politics have emerged in recent presidential elections. Are they needless events or do they serve an important democratic purpose? Do potential voters gain anything from the conventions? In this article, I use panel data collected around presidential conventions to examine how exposure to convention speeches impacts postconvention knowledge about the candidates, controlling for preconvention knowledge levels. I find evidence that campaign information generated during the presidential conventions increases knowledge about candidate positions, although the convention that occurs first in a presidential election appears to have a larger effect on knowledge gains than the convention that occurs second. I conclude that conventions have not outlived their usefulness but are instead important institutions that facilitate political learning and therefore enhance the democratic process.
Characterizing the post‐recolonization of Antechinus flavipes and its genetic implications in a production forest landscape
Authors: Mijangos Jose L. , Pacioni Carlo , Spencer Peter B. S. , Hillyer Mia , Craig Michael D.
Published: January 2017

Production landscapes, where activities such as timber harvesting, grazing, and resource extraction take place, have considerably reduced the extent of natural habitats. The ecological restoration of these landscapes is, in many cases, the best remaining option to protect biodiversity. However, it is unclear whether restoration designed to avert biodiversity loss in restored landscapes can also maintain genetic diversity in recolonizing faunal populations. We employed core concepts in the field of population genetics to address questions of genetic diversity and gene flow in recolonizing faunal populations, using a small and vagile marsupial (Antechinus flavipes) inhabiting a mined landscape under restoration. We did not detect a disruption of gene flow that led to genetic substructuring, suggesting adequate levels of gene flow across the landscape. Parameters of neutral genetic diversity were high in groups of individuals sampled in both restored and unmined sites. Our results are encouraging as they indicate that ecological restoration has the potential to not just increase available habitat, but also to maintain genetic diversity. However, there is evidence that past anthropogenic disturbances affected the genetics of the population at the regional level. Although restoration at the local level may seem to be successful, it is necessary to manage populations at larger spatial scales than where restoration is conducted, and over long temporal scales, if genetic diversity is to be maintained in restored landscapes. The field of population genetics is an underused tool in ecological restoration yet can provide important insights into how well restoration achieves its goals.
Re/framing the “Good Russian Prisoner”: Challenges of Postcolonial Reassessment in Aleksandr Rogozhkin's Checkpoint
Authors: MONASTIREVA‐ANSDELL ELENA
Published: January 2017

In 1994–96 the newly independent Russian media took the lead in interpreting the Russian army’s disorganized and brutal Chechen campaign as an authoritarian state’s abuse of its own citizens, innocent civilians, and inexperienced recruits who, in Harsha Ram’s words, were “caught in the spiral of violence resulting from Russian military aggression and Chechen reaction.” In their expository coverage of the uncaring Russian state on the one hand and the courageous but violent Chechen insurgents on the other, independent news channels employed the readily recognizable nineteenth century literary mythology of the Caucasus in which the post‐Soviet Russian people now collectively filled the role of the proverbial Prisoner of the Mountains, traditionally a weary romantic poet persecuted in his oppressive homeland yet culturally alienated from the freedom‐loving Caucasian tribes that hold him captive. In contrast to the news media’s dominant focus on the Russian people’s post‐imperial trauma, several artists engaged the paradigmatic Prisoner myth more thoughtfully to reflect on the ordinary ethnic Russians’ role and responsibilities in a new post‐imperial setting. Aleksandr Rogozhkin’s 1999 war drama Checkpoint (Blokpost) evoking Tolstoy’s early fiction about the Caucasus (along with Vladimir Makanin’s 1994 novella Prisoner of the Caucasus [Kavkazskii plennyi] and Sergei Bodrov’s 1996 cinematic adaptation of Lev Tolstoy’s eponymous tale, Prisoner of the Mountains [Kavkazskii plennik], challenges and complicates the independent media’s simplistic anti‐state rhetoric, and critically examines the imperial‐era mythology that serves as its ideological framework.
Scour holes and ripples occur below the hydraulic smooth to rough transition of movable beds
Authors: Kleinhans Maarten G. , Leuven Jasper R. F. W. , Braat Lisanne , Baar Anne
Published: January 2017

Scour holes often form in shallow flows over sand on the beach and in morphodynamic scale experiments of river reaches, deltas and estuarine landscapes. The scour holes are on average 2 cm deep and 5 cm long, regardless of the flow depth and appear to occur under similar conditions as current ripples: at low boundary Reynolds numbers, in fine sand and under relatively low sediment mobility. In landscape experiments, where the flow is only about 1 cm deep, such scours may be unrealistically large and have unnatural effects on channel formation, bar pattern and stratigraphy. This study tests the hypotheses that both scours and ripples occur in the same conditions and that the roughness added by sediment saltation explains the difference between the ripple–dune transition and the clear‐water hydraulic smooth to rough transition. About 500 experiments are presented with a range of sediment types, sediment mobility and obstructions to provoke scour holes, or removal thereof to assess scour hole persistence. Most experiments confirm that ripples and scour holes both form in the ripple stability field in two different bedform stability diagrams. The experiments also show that scours can be provoked by perturbations even below generalized sediment motion. Moreover, the hydraulic smooth to rough transition modified with saltation roughness depending on sediment mobility was similar in magnitude and in slope to ripple–dune transitions. Given uncertainties in saltation relations, the smooth to rough transitions modified for movable beds are empirically equivalent to the ripple–dune transitions. These results are in agreement with the hypothesis that scours form by turbulence caused by localized flow separation under low boundary Reynolds numbers, and do not form under generalized flow separation over coarser particles and intense sediment saltation. Furthermore, this suggests that ripples are a superposition of two independent forms: periodic bedforms occurring in smooth and rough conditions plus aperiodic scours occurring only in hydraulic smooth conditions.
Green collar work: Conceptualizing and exploring an emerging field of work
Authors: Pettinger Lynne
Published: January 2017

In this paper, I consider “green collar work,” broadly defined as work intended to counter environmental degradation. I consider what might count as green collar work and compare the greening of work in different sectors, including industrial production, service work, working on “nature,” and expert work. I look also at how organizations affect the “greenness” of work. I stress that “green work” is not consistent across time and place and that it is important to understand the interdependencies between different kinds of work. As this is a new topic in sociology, I draw on research from different social science disciplines.
Korean transracial adoptee identity formation
Authors: Laybourn Wendy Marie
Published: January 2017

Despite nearly half a million transnational adoptions to the United States, most of which are also transracial, sociological research has given little attention to this phenomenon. This review demonstrates why more sociological attention on Korean transnational adoption in particular is warranted. I review one area with overwhelming sociological significance—identity formation, including the distinct dimensions of racial, ethnic, and adoptive identities. While the bulk of this research has taken place outside of sociology, in reviewing the findings, I argue the sociological significance of Korean transnational transracial adoption to examinations of race, racialization, and identity formation.
Making sense of agency: Belief in free will as a unique and important construct
Authors: Feldman Gilad
Published: January 2017

Belief in free will is the general belief that human behavior is free from internal and external constraints across situations for both self and others. In the last decade, scholars in social‐cognitive psychology and experimental philosophy have made progress in defining free will terms, exploring how laypersons think of free will, discovering related cognitive processes and biases, and examining the behavioral outcomes of believing in free will. The growing interest in this construct raises the need for a discussion of what is new about free will beliefs, and how this construct differs from and relates to other well‐known agency constructs in the literature. In this review, we integrate conceptual discussions and empirical findings in the existing literature to highlight the belief in free will as a separate and important construct, different from existing constructs in the literature, and capturing unique aspects of agency. We conclude by calling researchers to recognize these differences and to leverage the potential in the construct of the belief in free will as a predictor of cognition and behavior.
Roughness preserving filter design to remove spatial noise from stereoscopic skin images for stable haptic rendering
Authors: Lee K. , Kim M. , Lee O. , Kim K.
Published: January 2017

Background/purpose

A problem in skin rendering with haptic feedback is the reconstruction of accurate 3D skin surfaces from stereo skin images to be used for touch interactions. This problem also encompasses the issue of how to accurately remove haptic spatial noise caused by the construction of disparity maps from stereo skin images, while minimizing the loss of the original skin roughness for cloning real tough textures without errors. Since the haptic device is very sensitive to high frequencies, even small amounts of noise can cause serious system errors including mechanical oscillations and unexpected exerting forces. Therefore, there is a need to develop a noise removal algorithm that preserves haptic roughness.

Methods

A new algorithm for a roughness preserving filter (RPF) that adaptively removes spatial noise, is proposed. The algorithm uses the disparity control parameter (λ) and noise control parameter (k), obtained from singular value decomposition of a disparity map. The parameter k determines the amount of noise to be removed, and the optimum value of k is automatically chosen based on a threshold of gradient angles of roughness (Ra).

Results

The RPF algorithm was implemented and verified with three real skin images. Evaluation criteria include preserved roughness quality and removed noise. Mean squared error (MSE), peak signal to noise ratio (PSNR), and objective roughness measures Ra and Rq were used for evaluation, and the results were compared against a median filter. The results show that the proposed RPF algorithm is a promising technology for removing noise and retaining maximized roughness, which guarantees stable haptic rendering for skin roughness.

Conclusion

The proposed RPF is a promising technology because it allows for any stereo image to be filtered without the risk of losing the original roughness. In addition, the algorithm runs automatically for any given stereo skin image with relation to the disparity parameter λ, and the roughness parameters Ra or Rq are given priority. Although this method has been optimized by graph‐cut disparity map building, it can be extended to other disparity map building methods because the parameter k is determined by actual roughness Ra data that can be obtained by simple measurement.
Phylogeny of Stephanidae (Hymenoptera: Apocrita) with a new genus from Upper Cretaceous Myanmar amber
Authors: LI LONFGENG , RASNITSYN ALEXANDR P. , LABANDEIRA CONRAD C. , SHIH CHUNGKUN , REN DONG
Published: January 2017

A new wasp species, Lagenostephanus lii Li, Rasnitsyn, Shih and Ren gen. et sp.n., is assigned to Stephaninae (Hymenoptera: Stephanidae). The specimen is described from the lowermost Upper Cretaceous Myanmar (Burmese) amber. This is the second stephanid wasp described from Myanmar amber after Kronostephanus zigrasi Engel & Grimaldi, representing the earliest fossil occurrences of Stephanidae. Based on morphological characters of all extant and extinct genera, a phylogenetic analysis of Stephanidae was conducted. The results indicate that Schlettereriinae and Stephaninae are monophyletic, whereas Electrostephanus Brues, as the only genus within Electrostephaninae, belongs to Stephaninae. Therefore, we propose a synonymy of Electrostephaninae with Stephaninae. Based on the fossil evidence, we infer that the family of Stephanidae was significantly diverse in the Late Cretaceous and that they originated during the Early Cretaceous or late Jurassic. A key to genera of Stephanidae is provided.

This published work has been registered in ZooBank, http://zoobank.org/urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:C082C245-8FD3-42B0-880F-94333286500B.
Promoting statistical thinking in schools with road injury data
Authors: Woltman Marie
Published: January 2017

Road injury is an immediately relevant topic for 9–19 year olds. Current availability of Open Data makes it increasingly possible to find locally relevant data. Statistical lessons developed from these data can mutually reinforce life lessons about minimizing risk on the road. Devon County Council demonstrate how a wide array of statistical thinking can be developed in this context.
Prevalence of vomiting in dogs with pericardial effusion
Authors: Fahey Rachel , Rozanski Elizabeth , Paul April , Rush John E.
Published: January 2017

Background

Pericardial effusion (PE) is common in dogs. Clinical signs may be vague until cardiac tamponade and associated cardiovascular decompensation develops. Vomiting has previously been identified in some dogs, but the actual prevalence of vomiting in dogs with PE is unknown. The purpose of this study is to report the prevalence of vomiting associated with PE, and to determine if vomiting is associated with the underlying cause of effusion, presenting plasma lactate concentration, or volume of PE removed.

Key Findings

The medical records of 49 dogs diagnosed with PE were restrospectively reviewed. Data collected from the medical record included signalment, the presence or absence of vomiting, presenting plasma lactate concentration, and the etiology of the PE. Twenty‐five of 49 dogs (51%) identified with PE had recently vomited. Vomiting was more common in dogs with presenting plasma lactate concentration > 5.0 mmol/L (P = 0.02) but was unrelated to the specific etiology of the PE. The volume of PE obtained via pericardiocentesis did not differ (P = 0.79) between dogs with (8.7 ± 3.4 mL/kg) and without historical vomiting (9.1 ± 4.3 mL/kg).

Significance

Vomiting is common in dogs with PE, and in particular, dogs with evidence of hypoperfusion. Pericardial effusion should be included as a differential diagnosis in dogs with a history of vomiting that present with weakness or collapse.
C8 cross transfer for the treatment of caudal brachial plexus avulsion in three dogs
Authors: Moissonnier Pierre , Carozzo Claude , Thibaut Jean‐Laurent , Escriou Catherine , Hidalgo Antoine , Blot Stéphane
Published: January 2017

Objective

To evaluate the cervical nerve 8 cross‐transfer technique (C8CT) as a part of surgical treatment of caudal brachial plexus avulsion (BPA) in the dog.

Study Design

Case series.

Animals

Client‐owned dogs suspected to have caudal BPA based on neurological examination and electrophysiological testing (n = 3).

Methods

The distal stump of the surgically transected contralateral C8 ventral branch (donor) was bridged to the proximal stump of the avulsed C8 ventral branch (recipient) and secured with 9‐0 polypropylene suture under an operating microscope. A carpal panarthrodesis was performed on the injured limb after C8CT.

Results

Surgical exploration confirmed avulsion of nerve roots C7, C8, and T1 in all cases. There was no evidence of an iatrogenic effect on the donor forelimb. Gradual improvement in function of the affected forelimb occurred in all dogs, with eventual recovery of voluntary elbow extension. Reinnervation was evident in EMG recordings 6 months postoperatively in all three dogs. Stimulation of the donor C8 ventral branch led to motor evoked potentials in the avulsed side triceps brachialis and radial carpus extensor muscles. Variable functional outcome was observed in the 3 dogs during clinical evaluation 3‐4 years after surgery. Digital abrasion wounds, distal interphalangeal infectious arthritis, and self‐mutilation necessitated distal phalanx amputation of digits 3 and 4 in 2 dogs.

Conclusion

C8CT provided partial reconnection of the donor C8 ventral branch to the avulsed brachial plexus in the 3 dogs of this series. Reinnervation resulted in active elbow extension and promoted functional recovery in the affected limb.
Findings From a Pilot Study: Bringing Evidence‐Based Practice to the Bedside
Authors: Friesen Mary Ann , Brady Joni M. , Milligan Renee , Christensen Patricia
Published: January 2017

Background

To translate research supporting inpatient care outcomes and provide evidence‐based care, registered nurses (RNs) need continuing education and mentoring support to adopt evidence‐based practice (EBP).

Aims

The aim of this study was to assess a demonstration project intended to pilot and evaluate a structured EBP education with mentoring innovation for nurses in a multihospital system.

Methods

Nurses from five units in five hospitals were included in an education with mentoring innovation to implement the Johns Hopkins Nursing Evidence‐Based Practice Model and the Advancing Research and Clinical practice through close Collaboration (ARCC) Model. To determine outcomes, the EBP beliefs scale (EBPB) and implementation scale (EBPI) were administered before and after the education with mentoring innovation. Eighty‐three RNs completed both preintervention surveys. A total of 57 RNs completed the postintervention surveys. In addition, qualitative data were obtained from focus groups involving 24 participants.

Findings

Statistical analysis indicated positive movement toward EBP in project participants. Qualitative analysis revealed perceived successes and challenges involved with implementing an evidence‐based program, provided logistical lessons learned, and indicated that nurses at all levels of practice require mentoring and coaching to foster EBP sustainment.

Linking Evidence to Action

The engagement of nurses in this project supported professional development and clinical application of evidence at the point of care. The pilot project's outcome informed a decision by health system administrators to fund more nurse driven EBP projects in the five hospitals. This innovative program provides a replicable structure for deployment and appraisal of EBP nursing model implementation.
Management of perineal pain among postpartum women in an obstetric and gynecological hospital in China: a best practice implementation project
Authors: Zhang Yu , Huang Li , Ding Yan , Shi Yajing , Chen Jiaying , McArthur Alexa
Published: January 2017

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Background:

Perineal pain is a serious condition that may negatively impact a significant number of postpartum women. Healthcare professionals, including midwives and nurses, are available to support women 24 hours a day during this period in hospital and are in an ideal position to assist in the management of perineal pain for postpartum women.

Objectives:

The aim of this evidence implementation project was to improve management of perineal pain among postpartum women in Ward 21 of the Obstetric and Gynecological Hospital, Fudan University.

Methods:

This evidence implementation project utilized the Joanna Briggs Institute Practical Application of Clinical Evidence System, and Getting Research into Practice audit and feedback tools. Six best practice recommendations were used for the audit cycle. A total of 18 nurses, three midwives and 30 female patients participated in the project. A baseline audit was conducted, followed by the implementation of strategies targeted to address the identified barriers. A follow-up audit was then conducted to evaluate change in practice.

Results:

Improvements in practice were observed for all six criteria. Significant improvements were found for the following: staff education increased compliance by 76% (from 24% to 100%). Education regarding antenatal perineal massage technique increased by 97% (from 3% to 100%). Compliance rates for use of ice packs increased by 63% (from 17 to 80%). Compliance rates for daily perineal pain assessment conducted for three days following childbirth increased by 100%, and analgesia administration rates increased by 27% (from 1% to 40%). Compliance rates for women's acceptance of postnatal perineal care education increased by 70% (from 30 to 100%).

Conclusion:

The current clinical audit project has made a significant improvement in establishing evidence-based practice of management of perineal pain among postpartum women in the gynecologic and obstetric hospital in Shanghai. It has been effective in increasing staff compliance and reducing the perineal pain among postpartum women.
The effect of involving significant others in chronic pain programs for adult patients with chronic non-malignant pain: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Hansen Carrinna A. , Larsen Palle
Published: January 2017

Review question/objective:

The objective of this review is to identify the effect of the involvement of significant others in chronic pain management programs for adult patients with chronic non-malignant pain on function, self-efficacy and pain.

More specifically, the objectives are to identify the effect of involving significant others in chronic management programs for adults with chronic non-malignant pain in primary, secondary or tertiary health care. This is compared to those receiving usual care or other self-management interventions.
Algorithm Modification Approach to Improve the Kinect’s Performance in Point Cloud Processing
Authors: Zhang Mingshao , Zhang Zhou , Esche Sven K. , Chassapis Constantin
Published: January 2017

Since its introduction in 2010, Microsoft’s Kinect input device for game consoles and computers has shown its great potential in a large number of applications, including game development, research and education. Many of these implementations are still in the prototype stages and exhibit a somewhat limited performance. These limitations are mainly caused by the quality of the point clouds generated by the Kinect, which include limited range, high dependency on surface properties, shadowing, low depth accuracy, etc. One of the Kinect’s most significant limitations is the low accuracy and high error associated with its point cloud. The severity of these defects varies with the points’ locations in the Kinect’s camera coordinate system. The available traditional algorithms for processing point clouds are based on the same assumption that input point clouds are perfect and have the same characteristics throughout the entire point cloud.

In the first part of this paper, the Kinect’s point cloud properties (including resolution, depth accuracy, noise level and error) and their dependency on the point pixel location will be systematically studied. Second, the Kinect’s calibration, both by hardware and software approaches, will be explored and methods for improving the quality of its output point clouds will be identified. Then, modified algorithms adapted to the Kinect’s unique properties will be introduced. This method allows to better judge the output point cloud properties in a quantifiable manner and then to modify traditional computer vision algorithms by adjusting their assumptions regarding the input cloud properties to the actual parameters of the Kinect. Finally, the modified algorithms will be tested in a prototype application, which shows that the Kinect does have the potential for successful usage in educational applications if the according algorithms are design properly.
An Efficient Method for Creating Virtual Spaces for Virtual Reality
Authors: Zhang Zhou , Zhang Mingshao , Chang Yizhe , Esche Sven K. , Chassapis Constantin
Published: January 2017

A virtual space (VS) is an indispensable component of a virtual environment (VE) in virtual reality (VR). Usually, it is created using general tools and skills that are independent of the users’ specific applications and intents. Creating a VS by surveying the real world with traditional measuring tools or creating virtual features with CAD software involves many steps and thus is time consuming and complicated. This renders the construction of VEs difficult, impairs their flexibility and hampers their widespread usage.

In this paper, an efficient method for creating VSs with a handheld camera is introduced. In this approach, the camera is used as a measuring tool that scans the real scene and obtains the corresponding surface information. This information is then used to generate a virtual 3D model through a series of data processing procedures. Firstly, the camera’s pose is traced in order to locate the points of the scene’s surface, whereby these surface points form a point cloud. Then, this point cloud is meshed and the mesh elements are textured automatically one by one. Unfortunately, the virtual 3D model resulting from this procedure represents an impenetrable solid and thus collision detection would prevent the avatars from entering into this VS. Therefore, an approach for eliminating this restriction is proposed here. Finally, a game-based virtual laboratory (GBVL) for an undergraduate mechanical engineering class was developed to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed methodology. The model format used in Garry’s Mod (GMod) is also found in other VEs, and therefore the method proposed here can be straightforwardly generalized to other VE implementations.
Numerical Simulation as in Integral Component of Dynamics Problem Solving
Authors: Stein Matthew
Published: January 2017

The engineering faculty at Roger Williams University are committed to training students to use modern computer-based tools when performing engineering analysis. But achieving this is a tall order, as engineering courses are already jam-packed with essential technical material and any hindrance to delivering this material is unwelcome. Likewise, we routinely pay lip service to the necessity for students to double-check their work, yet we provide students with few tools for systematically accomplishing this. This paper describes an effort by the author to integrate solid modeling into a Dynamics course by requiring numerical validation of symbolic solutions to homework problems. The students solve traditional homework problems using free-body diagrams, equations of motion, pencils and calculators; but then must demonstrate that their answers are valid through an independent check. Students construct solid models in SolidWorks© to duplicate the geometric and inertial properties of the problem, and then use the Motion Analysis, a SolidWorks Simulation add-in, to create a motion study duplicating the conditions of the problem. Students may place dynamically updating dimensions to determine distances or may generate graphs, e.g. velocity versus time, to study motion characteristics. As a direct result, students are able to independently validate their symbolic solutions with numerical simulations. This paper will provide a detailed description of the use of SolidWorks in a sophomore level Dynamics course offered spring 2012 and spring 2013. This paper will present examples of student work and assess the benefits and challenges associated with this teaching method.
Utilizing Schlieren Imaging to Visualize Heat Transfer Studies
Authors: Kaessinger Jacob C. , Kors Kramer C. , Lum Jordan S. , Dillon Heather E. , Mayer Shannon K.
Published: January 2017

Convective heat transfer beyond explicit solutions to the Navier Stokes equations is often an empirical science. Schlieren imaging is one of the only fluid imaging systems that can directly visualize the density gradients of a fluid using collimated light and refractive properties. The ability to visualize fluid densities is useful in both research and educational fields. A Schlieren imaging device has been constructed by undergraduate students at the University of Portland. The device is used for professorial heat transfer and fluid dynamics research and to help undergraduates visualize and understand natural convection. This paper documents the design decisions, design process, and the final specifications of the Schlieren system. A simple 2-D heated cylindrical model is considered and evaluated using Schlieren imaging, OpenFOAM C.F.D. simulation, and convection analysis using a Nusselt correlation. Results are presented for the three analysis techniques and show excellent verifications between the CFD simulation, Nusselt correlation, and Schlieren imaging system.
Development of a Laboratory Equipment for Dynamic Systems and Process Control Education
Authors: Vásquez Rafael E. , Posada Norha L. , Castrillón Fabio , Giraldo David
Published: January 2017

This paper addresses the development of an equipment to teach control engineering fundamentals. The design requirements were determined by users that perform academic, research and industrial training tasks in the area of dynamic systems and process control. Such requirements include: industrial instrumentation; measurement of controlled and manipulated variables, and disturbances; process reconfigurability; different control technologies; several control strategies; appropriate materials for visualization; and compact shape to optimize lab space. The selected process is a tank system that allows one to choose among several dynamic behaviors: first, second, and third order, linear and nonlinear behavior, and dead time; the mathematical model that represents the dynamics of the system is presented. A traditional 3-stage design methodology that includes conceptual, basic and detailed design was followed. The developed equipment allows the user to select from three different technological alternatives to control the system: a PLC, an industrial controller, and a computer. With such flexibility, several control strategies can be implemented: feedback, feedforward, PID, LQG, nonlinear control (gain scheduling, sliding mode, etc.), fuzzy logic, neural networks, dynamic matrix control, etc. The developed system is being used to teach undergrad courses, grad courses, and industrial training. Additionally, the equipment is useful in research projects where grad students and researches can implement and test several advanced control techniques.
Design of a Human Powered Flour Mill for Educational and Community Events
Authors: Ostergaard Halsey , Parmigiani John P.
Published: January 2017

Health education organizations use fairs and events to engage and educate the public about health and nutrition choices. Many organizations have interactive exhibits to attract and hold the attention of attendees. One successful example is a bicycle powered blender. Attendees take turns pedaling to produce fruit and vegetable smoothies that are given out as samples. Whole grain foods are also being promoted as healthy choices. This work describes the design, implementation, and testing of two prototype human powered flour mills for use at health education and community events. Because the mills will be used at public events, it must be safe and usable for a broad range of participant ages, sizes, and physical abilities. The mills should also be easy to transport, setup, and clean by volunteers unfamiliar with the mills. To facilitate teaching conversations, each prototype includes user power input feedback. One mill is based on a reclined bicycle format, constructed with a custom steel frame and standard bicycle components. Power feedback is accomplished with a ball proportionally levitated in a column of air. The second mill is based on a modified commercial rowing machine, and adapts the original power feedback system. The prototypes were mechanically tested, and evaluated by focus groups. Three commercial flour mills were evaluated on milling efficiency and suitability to this project. Recommendations are made for future versions.
Crowd-Funding for Inspiring Graduate Students to Educate K12 Students About STEM
Authors: Taylor Christine , Sitaraman Suresh K.
Published: January 2017

Often when people who are not in the field hear about electronic packaging, they immediately presume that it is exclusive to electrical engineering; however, electronic packaging has opportunities for many different Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) areas. Many projects in micro- and nanotechnology are interdisciplinary in nature, and thus, a broad background of various disciplines is needed to conduct research and development in these areas. At the Georgia Institute of Technology, an initiative called the Meindl Legacy project has been created to use crowd funding to help graduate students in the nanotechnology area to create “teachable moments.” The intention of the teachable moment is to broaden the research to younger audiences, so that they are inspired to take the necessary background classes needed to pursue a STEM career path. The use of crowd-funding allows for industry partners and the general public to become involved with research that is currently ongoing at the Georgia Institute of Technology and to educate K-12 students. The “teachable moment” outlined in this paper was created to demonstrate how different materials’ coefficients of thermal expansion can affect the interfaces and potentially lead to cracking damage in an electronic package.
Extremely low fecundity and highly female-biased sex ratio in nest-living spider mite Schizotetranychus brevisetosus (Acari: Tetranychidae)
Authors: Tamura Kaori , Ito Katsura
Published: January 2017

Spider mites show various life types characterized by spinning behavior, web structure, and sociality. Individuals of the woven-nest (WN) species construct silken nests on the undersurface of host leaves, inside which they develop and reproduce. This nesting behavior may be related with the defense mechanism and life history traits of mites in the stable habitat (e.g., evergreen trees). If the WN life type affects the life-history traits, these traits may be similar within WN species. The WN species are known to be fragmentarily distributed in diverse genera, Stigmaeopsis, Schizotetranychus, Eotetranychus, and Oligonychus, and their life types are suspected to have secondarily converged. However, their life histories have not been elucidated except for several species in specific genera. To supply the information in Schizotetranychus, we investigated the demographic traits and the sex ratio of Schizotetranychus brevisetosus, which shows the WN life type and lives on the evergreen Japanese blue oak Quercus glauca. We estimated the development time of females as 22.6 ± 3.1 days (mean ± SD, n = 22) and the fecundity of fertilized females as 13.7 ± 5.9 (n = 37) at 25°C. The sex ratio of males to the total number of adults at emergence was low (0.072). The intrinsic rate of natural increase (rm) was estimated as 0.060 day-1, one of the lowest ever reported for spider mites at the same temperature. The present results were similar to other WN species in that fecundity and male ratio were low.
Relative fitness of avermectin-resistant strain of Neoseiulus cucumeris (Oudemans) (Acari: Phytoseiidae)
Authors: Chen Xia , Zhang Yan-Xuan , Zhang Yu-Ping , Wei Hui , Lin Jian-Zhen , Sun Li , Chen Feng
Published: January 2017

The predacious mite Neoseiulus cucumeris (Oudemans) is an effective natural enemy of pest insects and mites. To identify the relative fitness of the avermectin-resistant strain of N. cucumeris, the life history parameters of avermectin resistant (R) and susceptible (S) strains of N. cucumeris were observed under experimental conditions (25 ± 1°C, 90 ± 5% RH and L: D = 14:10 h) feeding upon Tetranychus truncatus (Ehara). Fertility, net reproductive rates (R0 /female), intrinsic rates of increase (r/day) and development durations of the two strains were compared. The abamectin resistant strain of N. cucumeris had significantly shorter developmental duration and longevity than the sensitive stain. However, the mean fecundity of the resistant strain was significantly higher than that of the susceptible strain. The net reproductive rate (R0=30.3833 offspring), the intrinsic rate of increase (r=0.2231 d-1) and the finite rate of increase (λ=1.2499 d-1) of the resistant strain were only slightly higher than those of the susceptible strain (R0=29.5333 offspring, r=0.2130 d-1, λ=1.2373 d-1); the differences were not significant. However, the mean generation time (T=15.1768 d) of the resistant strain was significantly shorter than that of the susceptible strain (T=16.0314 d).
Evaluation of optimal masking levels in place-specific low-frequency chirp-evoked auditory brainstem responses
Authors: Baljić Izet , Eßer Dirk , Foerst Astrid , Walger Martin
Published: January 2017

The aim of the study is the experimental determination of the optimal required masking level for a given stimulus level when using a band limited “low-frequency chirp” in order to improve frequency and place specificity of auditory brainstem responses (ABRs). A low-frequency chirp (100–850 Hz) at stimulation levels between 40 and 80 dB normalized hearing level was presented to 12 normal hearing subjects. During presentation of each stimulus, the level of a high-pass noise with a low cutoff frequency of 1100 Hz was varied between 0 and 25 dB signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) by using 5 dB steps (at 0 dB SNR the same level of both the chirp and the masker in dB sound pressure level was presented). Measurements without masking were used as a reference. In all masking conditions, the latency of wave V was significantly increased compared to unmasked ABRs. The amplitude of wave V decreased when reaching the effective and therefore optimal masking level. Accordingly, in order to ensure place specificity of the ABR, ipsilateral masking is essential. At lower stimulus levels the SNR can be substantially increased (i.e., the masker level decreased) without loss of place specificity.
Excessive Celebration? The Racialization of Recruiting Commitments on College Football Internet Message Boards
Authors: Love Adam , Gonzalez-Sobrino Bianca , Hughey Matthew W.
Published: January 2017

The current study analyzed comments posted on Internet message boards devoted to U.S. college football. The investigators collected comments (N = 3,800) about instances in which a player initially announced intent to attend a particular university, but later changed his mind and signed a National Letter of Intent to attend a different university. While few posts included explicit mention of race (n = 11), commenters more frequently used forms of “color-blind” racial rhetoric that invoked racialized meanings without the overt use of racial terms (n = 346). Comments often reflected a white colonial framing of football players’ decisions, behaviors, and abilities, expressing a number of common racialized assumptions, including beliefs in the natural superiority of black physicality, doubts about black intellectual ability, and expectations about whites possessing skill, technique, and mental capacity. The presence of these racialized assumptions points to the continued salience of race in an era that is often claimed to be “color-blind” and free of racial discrimination.
A paralogous decoy protects
Phytophthora sojae
apoplastic effector PsXEG1 from a host inhibitor
Authors: Ma Zhenchuan , Zhu Lin , Song Tianqiao , Wang Yang , Zhang Qi , Xia Yeqiang , Qiu Min , Lin Yachun , Li Haiyang , Kong Liang , Fang Yufeng , Ye Wenwu , Wang Yan , Dong Suomeng , Zheng Xiaobo , Tyler Brett M. , Wang Yuanchao
Published: January 2017

Host-pathogen point-counterpoint

The arms race between pathogen and host is a well-known phenomenon. Ma
et al.
have now identified how an enzymatically inactive protein can abet a pathogen's infectivity. The pathogenic oomycete
Phytophthora sojae
secretes xyloglucanase that damages soybean cell walls. Soybean, in turn, secretes a defense protein that binds to and inactivates the xyloglucanase. To counteract this plant defense, the oomycete deploys a product of its own gene duplication: an inactive enzyme that binds the plant's defense protein. With the defense protein unproductively bound to the decoy, the oomycete can successfully invade the soybean cells.

Science
, this issue p.
710
Genome Sequence of
Phytomonas françai
, a Cassava (
Manihot esculenta
) Latex Parasite
Authors: Butler Claire E. , Jaskowska Eleanor , Kelly Steven
Published: January 2017

Here, we report the genome sequence of the cassava (
Manihot esculenta
) latex parasite
Phytomonas françai
.
P. françai
infection is linked with the yield-loss disease “chochamento de raizes” (empty roots) in the Unha variety of cassava, a disease characterized by poor root development and chlorosis of the leaves.
Draft Genome Sequence of Aeromonas sobria Strain 08005, Isolated from Sick
Rana catesbeiana
Authors: Yang Qiu-Hua , Zhou Chen , Lin Qi , Lu Zhen , He Li-Bin , Guo Song-lin
Published: January 2017

Aeromonas sobria
is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped, and ubiquitous bacterium. We present here the draft genome sequence of
A. sobria
strain 08005, isolated from an infected bullfrog. It is composed of 66 contigs totaling 4,678,951 bp, contains 4,252 coding DNA sequences (CDSs), four rRNAs, and 88 tRNA sequences, and shows the presence of various putative virulence-related genes.
Whole-Genome Sequences of Mycobacterium tuberculosis TB282 and TB284, a Widespread and a Unique Strain, Respectively, Identified in a Previous Study of Tuberculosis Transmission in Central Los Angeles, California, USA
Authors: Zhang Lixin , Yang Zhenhua
Published: January 2017

We report here the genome sequences of two
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
clinical isolates previously identified in central Los Angeles, CA, in the 1990s using a PacBio platform. Isolate TB282 represents a large-cluster strain that caused 27% of the tuberculosis cases, while TB284 represents a strain that caused disease in only one patient.
Complete Genome Sequence of a Novel WU Polyomavirus Isolate from Arkansas, USA, Associated with Acute Respiratory Infection
Authors: Kennedy J. L. , Denson J. L. , Schwalm K. S. , Stoner A. N. , Kincaid J. C. , Abramo T. J. , Thompson T. M. , Ulloa E. M. , Burchiel S. W. , Dinwiddie D. L.
Published: January 2017

We report here the complete genome sequence of a WU polyomavirus (WUPyV) isolate, also known as human polyomavirus 4, collected in 2016 from a patient in Arkansas with an acute respiratory infection. Isolate hPyV4/USA/AR001/2016 has a double-stranded DNA genome of 5,229 bp in length.
Complete Genome Sequence of
Spiroplasma
sp. TU-14
Authors: Lo Wen-Sui , Haryono Mindia , Gasparich Gail E. , Kuo Chih-Horng
Published: January 2017

Spiroplasma
sp. TU-14 was isolated from a contaminated sample of
Entomoplasma lucivorax
PIPN-2
T
obtained from the International Organization for Mycoplasmology collection. Here, we report the complete genome sequence of this bacterium to facilitate the investigation of its biology and the comparative genomics among
Spiroplasma
spp.
Draft Genome Sequence of an Anicemycin Producer,
Streptomyces
sp. TP-A0648
Authors: Komaki Hisayuki , Hosoyama Akira , Kimura Akane , Ichikawa Natsuko , Igarashi Yasuhiro
Published: January 2017

We report the draft genome sequence of
Streptomyces
sp. TP-A0648 isolated from a leaf of
Aucuba japonica
. This strain produces a new tumor cell growth inhibitor designated anicemycin. The genome harbors at least 12 biosynthetic gene clusters for polyketides and nonribosomal peptides, suggesting the potential to produce diverse secondary metabolites.
Genome Sequence of Lactobacillus sunkii Strain CG_D
Authors: Gabris Christina , Poehlein Anja , Bengelsdorf Frank R. , Daniel Rolf , Dürre Peter
Published: January 2017

Lactobacillus sunkii
CG_D is a rod-shaped, Gram-positive, and heterofermentative lactic acid bacterium. The draft genome of
L. sunkii
strain CG_D comprises 2,794,637 bp with an average G+C content of 42.03%. The genome harbors 2,662 predicted protein-encoding, and 71 RNA genes.