cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A fluid-filled intrauterine device: Initial clinical trials

Initial clinical trials of a saline-filled IUD were conducted with 697 women (397 nulliparas and 307 multiparas) experiencing 6,672 woman-months of use. The cumulative rates for multiparas were: pregnancy 1.5, expulsion 10.5, medical removal 10.9, continuation 68. For nulliparous women the rates were: pregnancy 4.3, expulsion 19.4, medical removal 14.3, continuation 58. Efforts are being made to modify the geometry and content of this IUD to decrease the expulsion rate and removals for bleeding.
Perceived Behavioral Changes Observed with Adaptive Seating Devices and Training Programs for Multihandicapped, Developmentally Disabled Individuals

The purpose of this study was to assess, by analyzing survey responses, the perceived behavioral changes that were observed when adaptive seating devices and training programs were provided to multihandicapped, developmentally disabled individuals. Results for 41 clients were analyzed. Statistical analysis revealed that significant changes in social interaction, positioning, tracking, grasping, and self-feeding were perceived by parents, guardians, or trainers. The necessity of a prospective study to analyze data about the influence of behavior programs used with adaptive seating devices is discussed.
Virtual metering of electrical appliances through analysis of data from contactless sensing

Metering of electricity consumption, both at the building-level and appliance-level, provides stakeholders like residents, facility managers, building owners, etc. with information requisite to engage in energy efficient practices. Currently available solutions for appliance-level energy metering require the installation of plug-through power meters; this is often difficult and costly for appliances with inaccessible wires/outlets, or for appliances that draw large amounts of current. In this paper, we utilize a framework that performs the step of energy estimation for load disaggregation, in order to substitute the need of plug-level sensors with cheap and easily deployable contactless sensors (e.g., light, sound, magnetic field sensors). The framework combines data from these contactless sensors and aggregate metering, in order to virtually meter the electricity consumption of specific appliances. The solution requires minimal calibration, and is easily performed using commercially available sensors. We test it in a commercial building with 6 appliances that are monitored using magnetic field sensors and find that the inferred energy values have an average error of 10.9%.
UNDERSTANDING FEATURES AND DISTANCE FUNCTIONS FOR MUSIC SEQUENCE ALIGNMENT

We investigate the problem of matching symbolic representations directly to audio based representations for applications that use data from both domains. One such application is score alignment, which aligns a sequence of frames based on features such as chroma vectors and distance functions such as Euclidean distance. Good representations are critical, yet current systems use ad hoc constructions such as the chromagram that have been shown to work quite well. We investigate ways to learn chromagram-like representations that optimize the classification of “matching” vs. “non-matching” frame pairs of audio and MIDI. New representations learned automatically from examples not only perform better than the chromagram representation but they also reveal interesting projection structures that differ distinctly from the traditional chromagram.
Effectiveness of Dichlorvos in Resin Strips for the Control of the German Cockroach, Blattella germanica.

Dichlorvos resin strips were tested in the laboratory and field for control of German cockroaches, Blattella germanica (L.). In the laboratory, caged cockroaches were placed in a 6-ft chamber for a 4-hr exposure period. Mortality rates and hatch from oothecae were recorded. In the field, caged cockroaches were placed in treated rooms for 2 days. Daily counts of mortality were recorded for both sexes. Chlordane-resistant cockroaches (Purdue strain B) were less susceptible to the dichlorvos treatments at all concentrations tested than were normal cockroaches. In laboratory tests, the LD50 for normal females was 0.063 μg/liter and that for chlordane-resistant females 0.226 μg/liter. Both strains when exposed to all concentrations tested showed higher oothecae drop and lower percent hatch than checks. Field results indicated that in unventilatcd arras resin strips containing 20% dichlorvos applied at 37.5 in.2/1000 ft3 for 48 hr produced 100% mortality. Dosages as high as 127.5 in.2/1000 ft3 did not exterminate cockroaches in wellventilated rooms in the same time period. In air-conditioned rooms, 90% of cockroaches were killed in open areas and 50% in hidden areas.
Abstract 1899: Induction of phase 2 antioxidant genes by the aqueous extract of Matricaria chamomilla (Chamomile) through Keap1-Nrf2 signaling pathway

Proceedings: AACR 101st Annual Meeting 2010‐‐ Apr 17‐21, 2010; Washington, DC Induction of phase 2 detoxifying enzymes in response to naturally occurring agents provides an effective means of protection against oxidative stress. Increasing lines of evidence show that the Keap1-Nrf2 complex is a key molecular target of phase 2 enzyme inducers. The transcription factor Nrf2 is a member of basic leucine-zipper NF-E2 family and interacts with the antioxidant response element (ARE) in the promoter region of phase 2 detoxifying enzymes. A cytoplasmic actin-binding protein, Keap1, is an inhibitor of Nrf2 and sequesters it in the cytoplasm. Various extracellular stimuli and inducers dissociate this complex, allowing Nrf2 to translocate into the nucleus, binding with ARE and induce the expression of various antioxidant genes. Recently natural compounds have been established as activators of phase 2 antioxidant enzymes through Nrf2 signaling pathway. We used aqueous chamomile extract obtained from dried flowers to investigate its effect on Nrf2 activation and induction of phase 2 enzymes in human prostate cancer PC-3 and LNCaP cells. Treatment of these cells with chamomile at 1-40μM concentration equivalent to aglycone apigenin caused significant dissociation of Keap1 from the Keap1-Nrf2 complex with significant decrease of Keap1 in the cytoplasm in dose- and time- dependent fashion. Similarly, a marked decrease in Nrf2 was observed in the cytoplasm after chamomile treatment. Chamomile treatment further led to increase in phase 2 enzymes including superoxide dismutase, NAD(P)H dehydrogenase [quinone] 1 and catalase in these cells which correlated with nuclear Nrf2 expression in dose- and time- dependent manner. Taken together, these molecular evidences provide an insight into the mechanism underlying the induction of phase 2 enzymes through Keap1- Nrf2 signaling pathway by chamomile, endorsing its antioxidant function. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 1899.
Developing a hot-water drill system for the WISSARD project: 1. Basic drill system components and design

A new, clean, hot-water drill system (HWDS) was developed by the Science Management Office, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, for use in the Whillans Ice Stream Subglacial Access Research Drilling (WISSARD) project to gain access to Subglacial Lake Whillans beneath ∼800 m of ice in West Antarctica. One primary borehole was drilled into the basal ice environment of Subglacial Lake Whillans during the initial field season in 2012/13. This paper describes the process of designing, fabricating, assembling, shipping, testing, commissioning and traversing the WISSARD HWDS leading up to the first scientific use of the system.
Assessment of Distance Measurement with Selected Wearable Devices in Telemonitoring

The use of wearable devices in health applications is not only being utilized in illness, it is also a major area of interest in fitness. Wearable devices for fitness tracking are available to consumers and can measure and calculate important fitness data trends based on movement and physiological parameters. Accelerometers are the sensors that provide information on the movement parameters of step count and distance. It is understood to obtain a distance measurement, there must be information provided about the step-to-step length but these devices typically only measure step count, and do provide the step-to-step length. The step-to-step length is based on the user's height which is input into the settings, allowing for the calculation of the distance. The intention of this study is to introduce a preliminary experiment to evaluate two different devices -- the Fitbit Flex and the Polar Loop -- for distance measurement methods, based on the step-to-step length values determined from collected device data. One measurement method uses a default stride length while the other method uses a stride speed algorithm. The step-to-step values for each device were compared to an experimental ground truth value for accuracy, which was used as a pilot for comparing the initial device data. In this preliminary study, the default stride length method provided a more accurate method for measuring the distance. A subsequent study is expected to be performed with more participants and parameters, which will be more suitable for providing a better comparison between the two devices against a ground truth.
Mapping dispositions for social justice: towards a cartography of reflection

AbstractAs non-White students now outnumber their White counterparts in America’s public schools, it is important for teacher education programs, which graduate a predominantly White cadre of teachers, to focus on the development of dispositions for social justice. When teachers view cultural diversity as a problem, they risk developing erroneous expectations for their students, which can support the surreptitious insertion of prejudices into the latent curriculum. In order to help preservice teachers reflect on their understanding of diverse perspectives, especially those related to cognitive complexity, this study uses social cartography and discourse analysis to map their dispositions. Discussion and self-reflection lead to understanding and self-monitoring, and mapping can help teacher candidates identify those areas in which they may harbour apathetic worldviews or unifocal perspectives.
Attitudes and Awareness of a “Buy Local” Holiday Marketing Campaign

Christmas tree and poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) sales are static or declining nationally and in Michigan. The objectives of this project were to evaluate a ‘‘buy local’’ educational media campaign (‘‘Make it a Real Michigan Christmas’’) designed to increase sales of poinsettias and Christmas trees. Consumer online surveys were administered four separate times (Oct. 2011, Jan. 2012, Oct. 2012, and Jan. 2013) to collect measures of awareness and knowledge both before and after each year’s educational media campaign. The survey asked Michigan residents about their Christmas tree and flowering plant purchases for the holiday, Christmas attitudinal questions (scored on a five-point Likert scale), awareness of this campaign, and demographic information. There were 1712 respondents, roughly split into a quarter per survey. Most measures of demographics and purchasing habits were very similar across the four sampling times. A little over a quarter (28% to 30%) purchased a Christmas tree the previous holiday, 16% to 20% which were live trees and 9% to 10% were artificial trees. Roughly a third (31% to 39%) of respondents purchased live poinsettias the previous holiday. ‘‘Make it a Real Michigan Christmas’’ had 3.3% to 5.0% of consumer awareness. Factor analysis identified two key attitudinal dimensions of the Christmas holiday. Factor 1 was described as a dimension of live Christmas trees being difficult, whereas Factor 2 showed a dimension of live trees being worth the effort. Participants were segregated into four clusters based on their factor scores. Emerging groups were either low/high on factor 1 (live trees are difficult) and/or factor 2 (live trees worth the effort). Few demographic differences were identified between the four groups, indicating they are relatively homogeneous in demographic composition. The largest group produced in the cluster analysis was 44% of the sample (cluster 1) and those consumers were more focused on the difficulty of live-tree purchases while the smallest group (6%, cluster 3) had factor scores less than 0 for both attributes.
Epidemiological Analysis of Sexually Transmitted Diseases in Beijing Shunyi District from 2004 to 2012

Objective The objective of this study was to describe the epidemic characteristics and trends of sexually transmitted diseases( STD) in Shunyi district of Beijing in recent years and to provide scientific basis for STD prevention and control. Methods Database of reported STD cases in Shunyi district from 2004 to 2012 were analyzed. Results Total 2 800 STD cases were reported in Shunyi district from 2004 to 2012. Of the reported cases 1 627 were males,and 1 173 were females. The ratio of males to females was 1. 39∶ 1,and 70. 03% of the reported STD cases were aged 20 ~ 39 years. The average incidence rate of overall STD was 38. 53 per 100 thousand per year. The average specific incidence rate of condyloma acuminatum,syphilis, gonorrhea,genital chlamydia trachomatis infection,HIV infection,genital herpes,AIDS ware 16. 54, 10. 31,6. 14,2. 70,1. 39,1. 11 and 0. 34 per 100 thousand per year,respectively. Conclusion While the incidence of sexually transmitted diseases has risen in the overall,but began to decline since 2010. The number of condyloma acuminatum ranks the frist disease. Condyloma acuminatum and syphilis influenced the incidence trend of STDs. HIV and AIDS were reported and increased significantly in Shunyi district.
Chinese Literature in American Middle and High School World Literature Textbooks:Text Selections and Pedagogical Practices

There are a total of 71 selected texts of the Chinese literature in the five textbooks of world literature for middle and high American schools.The selection of these texts covers the Pre-Qin Classics,the medieval poetry,the modern and contemporary literary works,folklores,and literary works created by American Chinese authors,and they receive high estimation from the textbook developers,which are mostly literary works that can reflect universal human values.The organization of the five textbooks principally ranges from the themes based on regions or eras.Teachers' guide for teaching TAO Yuan-ming's Substance,Shadow,and Spirit and ZHANG Jie's Love Must Not Be Forgotten,for example,reflects strong consideration for developing students' comprehensive competence in language arts.
Volumetric Growth of Cervical Schwannoma as a Predictor of Surgical Intervention.

ObjectiveCervical schwannomas are benign tumors that commonly present as asymptomatic masses and are managed with observation, radiation, or surgery. To our knowledge, the rate of volumetric change...
Effect of G-CSF and M-CSF on the in vitro toxicity associated with zidovudine in normal human bone marrow haematopoietic progenitor stem cells

Zidovudine, the antiviral drug used in the treatment of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), causes toxicity to the haematopoietic system. Although use of the haematopoietic growth factors, GM-CSF and erythropoietin have been investigated in clinical trials to modulate antiviral toxicity, there is scant data which supports their ability to ameliorate zidovudine induced toxicity on haematopoietic progenitor cells when combined in vitro. We describe here the results of studies designed to evaluate the capacity of additional haematopoietic factors such as granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) and macrophage-colony stimulating factor (M-CSF) to modulate zidovudineinduced toxicity on G-CSF and M-CSF dependent-colony formation in the presence or absence of zidovudine in vitro
An Improved Evolvable Oscillator and Basis Function Set for Control of an Insect-Scale Flapping-Wing Micro Air Vehicle

This paper introduces an improved evolvable and adaptive hardware oscillator design capable of supporting adaptation intended to restore control precision in damaged or imperfectly manufactured insect-scale flapping-wing micro air vehicles. It will also present preliminary experimental results demonstrating that previously used basis function sets may have been too large and that significantly improved learning times may be achieved by judiciously culling the oscillator search space. The paper will conclude with a discussion of the application of this adaptive, evolvable oscillator to full vehicle control as well as the consideration of longer term goals and requirements.
The Association of International Staging System (ISS) Stage with Disease and Symptom Burden in Patients with Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma

Background: The clinical presentation of multiple myeloma (MM) varies greatly but often includes bone pain, anemia, renal dysfunction, hypercalcaemia, and/or constitutional symptoms. There are no signs or symptoms that are disease specific. The earliest staging system for MM, the Durie-Salmon (DS), associated disease and symptom burden with prognosis; however, it has been largely replaced by the International Staging System (ISS), which is easier to compute and better identifies patients with the poorest prognosis. It is unclear if ISS stage, like DS, is associated with disease or symptom burden. Objective: To compare disease and symptom burden of patients with newly diagnosed MM by ISS Stage. Methods: Data was extracted from the open-access Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF) Researcher Gateway corresponding with interim analysis 6 from the CoMMpass study. The CoMMpass study is enrolling 1000 newly diagnosed MM patients who will be tracked longitudinally for 5 years. CoMMpass collects relevant clinical data and patient reported quality of life (EORTC QLQ-C30 and QLQ-MY20), as well as sequential tissue samples. Eligibility requirements for CoMMpass include: symptomatic MM with measureable disease by SPEP (≥1.0g/dL), UPEP (≥200mg/24 hours), or SFLC (≥10mg/dL); receiving an immunomodulator and/or a proteasome inhibitor for initial MM treatment; and no prior malignancies in the past 5 years. All clinical data was reported by trained data analysts at the enrolling center with the exception of flow cytometry which was performed centrally; raw lab values for beta-2 microglobulin and albumin were entered and stage was subsequently calculated by the analysts for this study according to the ISS (Greipp et al, JCO 2005). Twenty-six patients with unknown ISS were excluded from the analysis. Data was analyzed using SPSS 21. Categorical variables were compared using χ2, continuous with one-way ANOVA tests. Results: 599 patients were eligible for analysis. Sex, race, and heavy and light chain isotypes were all evenly distributed among the ISS stages; however, median age for ISS stage III was 67, 65 for stage II and 62 for stage I (p Conclusions: Stage III had a higher disease and symptom burden than stage I and II patients. Stage I and II patients were similar in most measures suggesting that ISS may not discriminate between these groups well, this is supported by other studies that have failed to find outcomes differences between stage I and II patients. Disclosures Vij:Takeda, Onyx: Research Funding; Celgene, Onyx, Takeda, Novartis, BMS, Sanofi, Janssen, Merck: Consultancy.
Pathogenic conversion of coagulase-negative staphylococci

Humans and animals are colonized by members of the genus Staphylococcus, however only some of these species evolved to cause invasive disease. The genetic basis for conversion of commensal staphylococci into pathogens is not known. We hypothesized that Staphylococcus aureus genes for coagulation and agglutination in vertebrate blood (coa, vwb and clfA) may support pathogenic conversion. Expression of coa and vwb in Staphylococcus epidermidis or Staphylococcus simulans supported a coagulase-positive phenotype but not the ability to cause disease in a mouse model of bloodstream infection. However, the simultaneous expression of coa, vwb and clfA in coagulase-negative staphylococci enabled bacterial agglutination in plasma and enhanced survival of S. simulans in human whole blood. Agglutination of S. simulans in the bloodstream of infected mice upon expression of coa, vwb and clfA provided also a mean for dissemination and replication in distal organs. Thus, the acquisition of genes for bacterial agglutination with fibrin appear sufficient for the conversion of commensal staphylococci into invasive pathogens.
RATES OF ORAL ANTICOAGULANT USE, WHILE IMPROVING OVER TIME, REMAIN LOW AMONG HOSPITALIZED PATIENTS WITH ATRIAL FIBRILLATION

Background: Oral anticoagulant (OAC) under-treatment for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation (AF) has been demonstrated. Limited data are available on treatment trends treatment over time, as non-vitamin K antagonists (NOACs) were introduced. Methods: Included patients from the Premier Health
Patient-centered communication between adolescent and young adult cancer survivors and their healthcare providers: Identifying research gaps with a scoping review.

Abstract Objective To conduct a scoping literature review to identify practices or programs that promote AYA patient-centered communication. Methods Between January and May of 2016, we applied standard scoping review methodology to systematically review articles. We considered peer-reviewed, English language articles written at any phase of intervention research. Both qualitative and quantitative studies were eligible, and no additional search restrictions were applied. We retained articles that included explicit or implicit outcomes for one of the six functions of patient-centered communication in cancer care. At least two independent reviewers assessed the articles. Results We screened a total of 4072 titles and abstracts, retaining 27 for full-text review. Ultimately, eight titles met the review’s inclusion criteria. We categorized each publication by the action or setting used to improve patient-centered communication, resulting in five categories. Most studies were not included because they did not include a patient-centered communication outcome. Conclusion This area of research is still emerging, as indicated by the small number of eligible studies and predominance of qualitative, descriptive, pilot, and feasibility studies with small sample sizes. Practice implications Our results suggest a clear need to develop and evaluate interventions focused on improving patient-centered communication between AYA survivors and their healthcare providers.
Maize (Zea Mays L.): Historical Development, Breeding, and Utilization

Maize (Zea mays L.) is the third most important world crop by area andproduction. Almost half is produced in the USA. During the 1960s and 19 70s world production increased by more than 100 per cen...
Seasonality of hair loss: a time series analysis of Google Trends data 2004-2016.

Hair loss is a frequently encountered dermatologic complaint that often generates psychological distress. Prior studies have demonstrated a seasonal pattern to hair loss. Maximal proportions of telogen hair have been found to occur in the summer, whereas lowest rates of telogen hairs occur in the winter. Additionally, a recent study demonstrated that maximal hair shedding occurs in August and September, and that the percentage of hairs in the anagen phase peaks at the beginning of spring. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Feasible Precautions in Attack and Autonomous Weapons

The future of warfare will undoubtedly include autonomous systems capable of making complex decisions without human operator involvement. These systems will react blindingly fast, possess exceptional precision, and operate reliably and consistently without human supervision. While the promise of autonomy seems almost boundless, questions remain about the lawfulness of allowing such systems to select and lethally engage targets on their own. One of the consistent issues raised is whether nations wishing to employ autonomous weapon systems on the battlefield could do so in a manner that would comply with the fundamental principles of the law of armed conflict. This chapter addresses the crux of that concern by examining the legal impacts these future systems might have on targeting during international armed conflicts. In particular, the chapter focuses on the requirement of nations to take feasible precautions in attack and seeks to determine whether a nation employing autonomous weapons on a battlefield might be able to fully comply. First, this chapter strives to define what is meant by autonomous weapon systems. Second, the chapter will examine the technological advances and operational benefits which portend these weapon systems may become a reality in the future. The emphasis will next shift to the unique challenges the systems present to the requirement to take feasible precautions in attack. Lastly, the author concludes that while questions regarding precaution in attack requirements raise valid concerns, the use of autonomous weapons under many circumstances will likely be deemed lawful.
Denial, Memory Bans and Social Media

We live in an age of ready availability of information… including hate speech, genocide denial and narratives of white supremacy. Encountering this information online can generate a feeling of uneasiness, even if one finds the offending material after a lengthy search. One possible response to this feeling of uneasiness is to ban the speech in question, and indeed many states have enacted restrictions on genocide denial and other denials of historical events (memory laws). In this paper, I examine memory laws in a social media age. The first section addresses the legal legitimacy of memory laws. These laws go beyond the traditional concern about incitement to hatred or violence that justifies hate speech bans. Next, I examine the effectiveness of memory bans. In a global internet age, states have opted for country-specific laws or global anti-denial campaigns. It is unclear, however, if either approach will succeed in removing all denialist content from the internet. At best, one can drive denial to the margins of society; one cannot remove it entirely. Finally, I turn to practical solutions. On the one hand, one can honor the memory threatened by denial, and try to restrict denial to corners of the web (as opposed to one’s virtual living room). In the end, however, the virtual world will likely continue to contain much we do not like, including denial. This requires a special type of tolerance, one based in resignation and rooted not in choice but in inevitability.
Toward a New Model of College “Choice” for a Twenty-First-Century Context

The past two decades have seen massive changes in the higher education landscape, including the heightened participation of post-traditional students, high reentry and mobility of students within and across sectors, and the increased visibility of open admissions institutions, such as community colleges and for-profit colleges. Despite these radical shifts, the most commonly used college choice frameworks still focus on the decisions of students who fit a stereotypical profile and are entering traditional institutions of higher learning for the first time. In this article, Constance Iloh argues for the necessity of a new conceptual approach and offers a three-component ecological model of college-going decisions and trajectories that incorporates the pressing conditions and shifting contexts of twenty-first-century postsecondary education. In doing so, Iloh also asserts that the concept of “choice” may be a limited and problematic way of understanding present-day college-going.
Building an Organizational Environment of Cultural Competence

The purpose of this chapter is to consolidate elements from the other guidelines for culturally competent healthcare and illustrate their application at the organizational level. A commitment to cultural competence is needed at the highest administrative level of healthcare institutions, reflected in their mission and vision statements, formation of a diversity committee accountable to leadership, and engaging community members in committees, such as patient education, research and ethics committees. These community members can also help develop culturally appropriate alternatives to unsafe traditional practices. Recruitment of a multicultural workforce and cultural competence training of all the employees are also necessary. Signage in languages of the populations served and interpreters’ services are needed to improve communication and patient education services for those populations not speaking the dominant language. Linking quality of care with equity of care aims to reduce the disparities of health outcomes for our most vulnerable populations.
Famatinorthis cf. F. turneri Levy and Nullo, 1973 (Brachiopoda, Orthida) from the Shin Brook Formation (Ordovician, Arenig) in Maine

Famatinorthis cf. F. turneri Levy and Nullo, 1973, is an abundant component of a poorly preserved brachiopod assemblage in volcaniclastic rocks at one locality in the Arenig-age Shin Brook Formation in northeastern Maine. The brachiopod assemblage of the Shin Brook Formation has been classed as a Celtic biogeographic assemblage that is interpreted to have lived in cool water at mid- to high peri-Gondwanan latitudes. Famatinorthis turneri sensu stricto is one of the six brachiopod species known from coeval volcanicsrich rocks of continental margin affinities in the Famatina Range of northwestern Argentina; the presence of its congener in Maine supports the Celtic affinities of the Famatina assemblage, but its Ordovician location remains cryptic.
The Development of Russell's Diagrams for Judgment

In his 1918 lectures, The Philosophy of Logical Atomism , Russell discusses the impossibility of drawing a diagram or "map-in-space" of the form of belief (judgment). In this paper, I argue that an examination of diagrams appended to Russell's Theory of Knowledge shows him already anticipating this symbolizing difficulty in 1913 and—in the midst of attempting to adopt Wittgenstein's doctrine of propositional bipolarity—jettisoning attempts to diagram the form of belief.
Structural Studies of Gallosilicate Zeolites

A series of gallosilicate zeolites including ABW-, FAU-, LTL-, MAZ- and SOD-framework materials have been synthesized and characterized structurally by X-ray and neutron diffraction. The structural properties (unit cell sizes, and sorption characteristics) and structural features (gallium orderings and partitionings, T-0 bond lengths, T-0-T bond angles and aperture sizes) of these gallosilicate zeolites are compared with the analogous aluminosilicates. Variations in 29 Si chemical shifts with framework geometry in gallosilicate zeolites are described.
Osmoregulation in fiddler crabs (Uca) from temperate Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico coasts of North America

Fiddler crabs (Crustacea: Decapoda; genus Uca) were collected from 16 locations along the temperate Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico coasts of eastern North America for osmoregulation studies. Three species, U. pugilator, U. pugnax and U. minax, were taken from habitats between Cape Cod, MA, and St. Mary's River, Nassau Co., GA Seven species, U. panacea, U. speciosa, U. spinicarpa, U. longisignalis, U. rapax, U. pugilator and U. minax, were collected in habitats between the Ochlochonee River, Liberty Co., and Thompson's Bayou, Escambia Co., along the Gulf coast of northwest Florida. To examine differences in osmoregulatory capabilities among the species, specimens were placed in various concentrations of artificial seawater (0–3450 mOsm) for 5 days. The oligohaline or "freshwater" species, U. minax, U. spinicarpa and U. longisignalis, possess the lowest average hemolymph osmolality. They are unable to control hemolymph osmolality above 2000 mOsm. On the other hand, the euryhaline species, U. speciosa, U. panacea, U. pugilator and U. pugnax, have much higher average hemolymph osmolality. They are able to withstand an osmotic challenge of 2200 mOsm or greater. Among the eight species, U. panacea and U. pugilator are able to osmoregulate across the broadest range of seawater concentrations (0–2800 mOsm). After an examination of the osmoregulation in several populations of U. minax, U. pugilator and U. pugnax, physiological adaptation is apparent in the two former species, but not the latter. Experimental evidence for capacity adaptation was examined in the freshwater species, U. minax. If slowly adapted to hypertonic seawater (1800 mOsm) for 14 days, this species is able to withstand much higher osmotic pressures than unadapted crabs. Although hemolymph isosmotic concentration remains the same, the limits for regulation are extended to higher osmolality. Consequently, as a result of studying osmoregulation in several species of Uca captured at various locations across their geographic range in the temperate zone, a clearer view of water-balance physiology is available for the genus. The Uca spp. are not uniform in osmoregulatory abilities. There is considerable inter- and intraspecific physiological variation associated with the ecological distribution of each species, respectively.
Implications and Applications

The main finding of the work reported in Chapters 5 and 6 is that there tends to be a negative relationship between the amount of extrinsic reward an individual receives for engaging in an activity and the amount of intrinsic motivation he has for that activity. Extrinsic rewards which are more than sufficient tend to decrease intrinsic motivation, and insufficient extrinsic rewards tend to increase intrinsic motivation, though we’ve seen that there are limiting conditions to this. For example, verbal reinforcements do not decrease the intrinsic motivation of college males (Chapter 5), intrinsic motivation will not be enhanced by insufficient extrinsic rewards unless the person feels personally responsible for the outcomes of his action (Chapter 6), and a need for a feeling of equity sometimes leads to behavior which seems inconsistent with the negative relationship assertion (Chapter 7).
Signals in the Dark: What factors select for the evolution of cooperation controlled by quorum sensing?

Quorum sensing is a ubiquitous strategy in which bacteria are able to sense the presence of others via the density of a secreted molecule. Vibrio harveyi is one such bacterial species that uses quo...
Futures studies as applied knowledge

At the present time, futures studies is to modern academia and societal decision making what Science was to academia and societal decision making in the late Middle Ages. Because of this, I am no more likely to get most successful academicians, politicians, and business persons to take futures studies seriously (and thus to help them and their organizations to think and act more helpfully about the future), than Copernicus was in getting the powers that were in his time to recognize that the earth isn’t the center of the universe. Because futures studies is not like other established fields in academia, it is constantly being misunderstood and misused.
Practicalities of Collecting Wild Plants in North America: Insights from the United States

Successful collection of wild plant germplasm requires careful preparation. Based on the author’s experiences in the United States, this chapter describes the process of preparing and executing explorations to collect wild plant germplasm in North America. An outline is provided, followed by more detailed descriptions of the steps of setting up an exploration framework, obtaining permits and permissions, and developing trip logistics. Establishing an exploration framework involves locating populations of the target species through compilation of herbarium voucher data and additional resources and through contacts with plant experts and other knowledgeable people. Most places in North America require permission or permits for any vegetation disturbance activities. Neither the United States nor Canada has an overarching national level permit; every landowner needs to be contacted. Mexico requires a national collection permit although the national permit does not grant access; therefore, every landowner needs to be contacted. The process of obtaining permits can take several months or longer. Travel logistics involve coordination and development of an efficient route based on population locations, the preparation of suitable maps, and the acquisition of appropriate devices and support equipment.
Moderating the Use of Lay Opinion Identification Testimony Related to Surveillance Video

Traditionally, under the “silent witness” theory, when video-surveillance recordings are authenticated and admitted at trial, the video “speaks for itself.” However, with increasing frequency, courts have permitted witnesses to provide lay opinion identification testimony about individuals in the surveillance video. The testimony is offered as lay opinion testimony that assists the jury, particularly in cases where the video is of poor quality, the subject’s face is difficult to see, or the subject’s appearance has changed by the time of trial. Recent state court opinions (including several state supreme courts as a matter of first impression) have upheld the admission of lay opinion identification testimony in an overly lenient manner that should be addressed. The primary problem with this kind of lay opinion testimony is that it poses challenges to effective cross-examination, particularly in criminal cases in which the witness is a law enforcement officer. Cross-examination that attempts to test the officer’s testimony may be ineffective or, worse, harmful, to the extent that it attempts to explore the officer’s familiarity with a criminal defendant. Courts have developed some procedural safeguards to protect against abuse of this form of testimony, but they are insufficient and fail to ensure effective cross-examination in all circumstances. This Article proposes additional safeguards that courts can use to moderate the use of lay opinion identification testimony related to surveillance video, while permitting such testimony when it is helpful to the jury in determining an issue of fact.
Diet influences proliferation and stability of gut bacterial populations in herbivorous lepidopteran larvae

Animals have ubiquitous associations with microorganisms, but microbial community composition and population dynamics can vary depending upon many environmental factors, including diet. The bacterial communities present in caterpillar (Lepidoptera) guts are highly variable, even among individuals of a species. Across lepidopteran species, it is unclear if the variation in their gut bacterial communities is due to ingested bacteria with diets or responses of gut bacteria to their diet. In this study, we aimed to understand whether bacteria establish and persist in the lepidopteran gut or just pass through the gut with food. We also examined whether bacterial establishment in lepidopteran guts depended on diet. We conducted a series of experiments using axenic and gnotobiotic insect rearing methods to address these objectives. We found that bacteria were established and maintained without replacement through the larval instars of the fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) and corn earworm (Helicoverpa zea). Gut bacterial titers increased when larvae were fed gamma-irradiated corn leaves but decreased when fed a wheat germ artificial diet. However, bacterial titers of larvae fed on a pinto bean artificial diet were similar to those consuming intact plants. We also observed that microbial titers of fall armyworm and other folivorous larvae were positively related to the host body size throughout larval development. Collectively, these results suggest that the populations of bacteria present in caterpillar guts are not simply a transient community passing through the system, but rather are a dynamic component of the caterpillar gut. Sensitivity of bacterial populations to the type of diet fed to lepidopterans suggests that not all diets are equally useful for reducing variance in community structure and interpreting insect-microbe interactions.
The specificity of sperm-mediated paternal effects in threespined sticklebacks

Parental effects can help offspring cope with challenging environments, but whether these effects are unique to specific environmental conditions is largely unknown. Parental effects may evolve via a core pathway that generally prepares offspring for risky environments or could be stimuli-specific, with offspring developing phenotypes that are tailored to specific environmental challenges. We exposed threespined sticklebacks (Gasterosteus aculeatus) fathers to a potentially threatening stimulus (net) versus native predator (sculpin). Offspring of sculpin-exposed fathers were more responsive (greater change in activity) to a simulated predator attack, while offspring of net-exposed fathers were less responsive (lower plasma cortisol and fewer antipredator behaviors). To evaluate offspring response to native and non-native stimuli, we sequentially exposed offspring of net-exposed, sculpin-exposed or control fathers to a net, native sculpin model, or non-native trout model. Paternal treatment did not influence offspring response to stimuli; instead, offspring were more responsive to the native sculpin predator compared to nets or non-native trout predator. Collectively, we demonstrate that sperm-mediated paternal effects in response to different, potentially stressful stimuli result in distinct offspring phenotypes. This specificity may be key to understanding the evolution of adaptive parental effects and how parents prime offspring for encountering both evolved and novel environmental stimuli.
A Virtual Reality Muscle-Computer Interface for Neurorehabilitation in Chronic Stroke: A Pilot Study

Severe impairment of limb movement after stroke can be challenging to address in the chronic stage of stroke (e.g., greater than 6 months post stroke). Recent evidence suggests that physical therapy can still promote meaningful recovery after this stage, but the required high amount of therapy is difficult to deliver within the scope of standard clinical practice. Digital gaming technologies are now being combined with brain-computer interfaces to motivate engaging and frequent exercise and promote neural recovery. However, the complexity and expense of acquiring brain signals has held back widespread utilization of these rehabilitation systems. Furthermore, for people that have residual muscle activity, electromyography (EMG) might be a simpler and equally effective alternative. In this pilot study, we evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of an EMG-based variant of our REINVENT virtual reality (VR) neurofeedback rehabilitation system to increase volitional muscle activity while reducing unintended co-contractions. We recruited four participants in the chronic stage of stroke recovery, all with severely restricted active wrist movement. They completed seven 1-hour training sessions during which our head-mounted VR system reinforced activation of the wrist extensor muscles without flexor activation. Before and after training, participants underwent a battery of clinical and neuromuscular assessments. We found that training improved scores on standardized clinical assessments, equivalent to those previously reported for brain-computer interfaces. Additionally, training may have induced changes in corticospinal communication, as indexed by an increase in 12-30 Hz corticomuscular coherence and by an improved ability to maintain a constant level of wrist muscle activity. Our data support the feasibility of using muscle-computer interfaces in severe chronic stroke, as well as their potential to promote functional recovery and trigger neural plasticity.
Testing copositivity via mixed–integer linear programming

Abstract We describe a simple method to test if a given matrix is copositive by solving a single mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) problem. This methodology requires no special coding to implement and takes advantage of the computational power of modern MILP solvers. Numerical experiments demonstrate that the method is robust and efficient.
A Digital Tech Deal: Digital Socialism, Decolonization, and Reparations for a Sustainable Global Economy

As we progress into the 21st century, the human race is driving planet Earth towards ecosystem collapse. Scientists fear that because humans are overheating the environment and over-consuming its material resources, we are generating a sixth extinction event that is extinguishing billions of animals. Without a rapid change in the way the we conduct global civilization, we will destroy much of life on Earth, including, potentially, our own species. In order to fix the situation, the human race must redistribute wealth and income from the rich to the poor and rapidly shift to an economic model based on equality and ecological sustainability. Unfortunately, transnational technology corporations, centred in Silicon Valley, are perpetuating consumerism and exacerbating inequality across the world. This essay argues that colonialism is the business model of digital capitalism, and the problem of "Big Tech" cannot be fixed within a capitalist system. In order to produce an environmentally sustainable digital economy, we need digital socialism. I suggest we develop and expand “People’s Tech for People’s Power” – a commons-based digital economy based on free and open source software and internet decentralization, supported by socialist legal solutions, critical education, grassroots movements, and bottom-up democracy. Under People's Tech, the digital ecosystem will be socialized, with the means of computation placed into the hands of the people, who will administer production, distribution, and development for a just and sustainable economy. Intellectual property (in the form of copyrights and patents) will be converted to commons-based ownership, available to everyone on equal terms. This model of development redistributes wealth and knowledge as a form of reparations for colonialism and slavery, and intersects with the movement for social and environmental justice.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion in economics and computation

SIGecom embraces diversity, fosters mutual understanding and respect, and recognizes the inherent dignity of every person and group [sig 2020]. Over the years, the SIG has taken many measures towards these objectives, including establishing SafeEC, creating a virtual conference format designed to ease participation across time zones, and launching a Global Outreach program to increase participation of low- and middle-income countries [Immorlica et al. 2019].