cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Catastrophe and Stability Analysis of a Cable-Driven Actuator

Recent work in human-robot interaction has re- vealed the need for compliant, human-friendly devices. One such device, known as the MARIONET, is a cable-driven single joint actuator with the intended applications of physical rehabilitation and assistive devices. In this work, the stability of the nonlinear system is determined in regards to its equilibria in a wide variety of configurations. In certain configurations, the canonical version of this mechanism experiences an interesting mathematical behavior known as "catastrophes". This behavior may be disadvantageous toward control or even safety. Several cases are thoroughly investigated, two cases where each of two degrees of freedom loses control, and the final case explores the use of a mechanical advantage such as a block and tackle. The study concludes that for a range of design options, the MARIONET does not suffer from any catastrophes. However, the unique behaviors such as a unidirectional bifurcation produced by certain configurations may have use outside of our objectives, perhaps as a type of switch or valve. Tensioner keeps the tension of the cable at a constant value. The torque on the elbow is a function of the moment arm exerted by the length of cable from the Link to the Pulley (LLP ). This paper will explore the equilibria of the MARIONET under several different conditions. The first condition con- siders where the Pulley is under position control (a non- backdrivable Rotator). It is determined that the Link in this case will converge to the Pulley position in every configu- ration except for minute singularities. The second condition simulates a loss of control of the Pulley with the user rigidly controlling the Link (backdrivable Rotator). It is found that in certain portions of the workspace, the Pulley will settle to either of two equilibria, neither posing any danger to the user. The final portion of the analysis takes the second condition and investigates the effects of using different mechanical advantages on LLP . The mechanical advantage, physically realized as a block and tackle, can cause interesting motions in the Rotator known as "catastrophes" (defined below). These motions could potentially cause control issues, but at the level of mechanical advantage of the MARIONET, poses no threat. We conclude that while the MARIONET in its present state has virtually no instabilities in its workspace, the unique type of catastrophe described may be able to be used in other applications. The following work has been inspired by analysis on a very similar mechanism known as a Zeeman Catastrophe Machine (1), (2). The Zeeman Machine experiences a specific type of catastrophe, defined as a large change in internal configuration caused by a small change in external circumstances. While in everyday life, the term "catastrophe" has a negative connotation, it can be used for many useful applications. Examples of catastrophes include ski boot latches, buttons on a keyboard, and even the freezing of water. A catastrophe may be thought of as
The Beasts at Ephesus and the Cult of Artemis

The words crux interpretum are frequently invoked over the question Paul poses to his Corinthian acquaintances in 1 Cor 15:32: eἰ κατὰ ἄνθρωπον ἐθηριομάχησα ἐν Ἐφeσῳ, τί μοι τὸ ὄφeλος; “If with merely human hopes I fought with beasts at Ephesus, what would I have gained by it?” Three principal questions have occupied interpreters of this enigmatic verse. First, does the verb ἐθηριομάχησα imply a literal fight with wild beasts, does it allude figuratively to a hostile conflict with human adversaries, or does it refer hypothetically to a literal event (an unreal conditional)? Second, if the verb is meant figuratively, as nearly all today conclude, whom does Paul characterize as “wild beasts”? Third, what is meant by the phrase κατὰ ἄνθρωπον?
In vivo imaging of disturbed pre- and post-synaptic dopaminergic signaling via arachidonic acid in a rat model of Parkinson's disease.

Abstract Background Parkinson's disease involves loss of dopamine (DA)-producing neurons in the substantia nigra, associated with fewer pre-synaptic DA transporters (DATs) but more post-synaptic dopaminergic D 2 receptors in terminal areas of these neurons. Hypothesis Arachidonic acid (AA) signaling via post-synaptic D 2 receptors coupled to cytosolic phospholipase A 2 (cPLA 2 ) will be reduced in terminal areas ipsilateral to a chronic unilateral substantia nigra lesion in rats given d -amphetamine, which reverses the direction of the DAT, but will be increased in rats given quinpirole, a D 2 -receptor agonist. Methods d -Amphetamine (5.0 mg/kg i.p.), quinpirole (1.0 mg/kg i.v.), or saline was administered to unanesthetized rats having a chronic unilateral lesion of the substantia nigra. AA incorporation coefficients, k * (radioactivity/integrated plasma radioactivity), markers of AA signaling, were measured using quantitative autoradiography in 62 bilateral brain regions following intravenous [1- 14 C]AA. Results In rats given saline (baseline), k * was elevated in 13 regions in the lesioned compared with intact hemisphere. Quinpirole increased k * in frontal cortical and basal ganglia regions bilaterally, more so in the lesioned than intact hemisphere. d -Amphetamine increased k * bilaterally but less so in the lesioned hemisphere. Conclusions Increased baseline elevations of k * and increased responsiveness to quinpirole in the lesioned hemisphere are consistent with their higher D 2 -receptor and cPLA 2 activity levels, whereas reduced responsiveness to D-amphetamine is consistent with dropout of pre-synaptic elements containing the DAT. In vivo imaging of AA signaling using dopaminergic drugs can identify pre- and post-synaptic DA changes in animal models of Parkinson's disease.
Rapid method for extracting the antibiotic mutacin 1140 from complex fermentation medium yeast extract

The peptide antibiotic mutacin 1140 belongs to the group of antibiotics called lantibiotics. They are ribosomally synthesized and undergo extensive enzymatic modifications before being excreted int...
Effect of processing variables and fiber reinforcement on the mechanical properties of wood plastic composites

Wood plastic composite (WPC) specimens were fabricated in shapes relevant to flute (musical instrument) production using African blackwood powder and phenolic resin in a hot compression molding setup. The roles of composition and processing parameters on the mechanical properties (flexural strength, elastic modulus, and impact failure energy) were systematically investigated. Cracks were observed in composites with more than 70% wood particles due to the formation of gas in the system during manufacturing, and lack of fluidity in the system to flush out entrapped air and the produced gases. Based on these results, the optimum temperature, pressure, and wood volume fraction for manufacturing WPC in the form of a flute is developed. A further series of experimental procedures were performed to improve the mechanical properties of WPC samples by studying the addition of short glass fibers to the molding compound prior to hot pressing. The results showed that the addition of short fiber did not improve the strength of WPC but rather reduced its strength compared to unreinforced composite. This was attributed to lack of bonding between the short fibers and composite matrix.
On the Vertical Structure of Modeled and Observed Deep Convective Storms: Insights for Precipitation Retrieval and Microphysical Parameterization

An understanding of the vertical structure of clouds is important for remote sensing of precipitation from space and for the parameterization of cloud microphysics in numerical weather prediction (NWP) models. The representation of cloud hydrometeor profiles in high-resolution NWP models has direct applications in inversion-type precipitation retrieval algorithms [e.g., the Goddard profiling (GPROF) algorithm used for retrieval of precipitation from passive microwave sensors] and in quantitative precipitation forecasting. This study seeks to understand how the vertical structure of hydrometeors (liquid and frozen water droplets in a cloud) produced by high-resolution NWP models with explicit microphysics, henceforth referred to as cloud-resolving models (CRMs), compares to observations. Although direct observations of 3D hydrometeor fields are not available, comparisons of modeled and observed radar echoes can provide some insight into the vertical structure of hydrometeors and, in turn, into the ability of CRMs to produce precipitation structures that are consistent with observations. Significant differences are revealed between the vertical structure of observed and modeled clouds of a severe midlatitude storm over Texas for which the surface precipitation is reasonably well captured. Possible reasons for this discrepancy are presented, and the need for future research is highlighted.
Prototype of feature-based design for assembly

This paper describes a prototype software system that implements a form of feature-based design for assembly. It is not an automated design system but instead a decision and design aid for designers interested in Concurrent Design. Feature-based design captures design intent (assembly topology, product function, manufacturing, or field use) while creating part and product geometry. Design for assembly as used here extends existing ideas about critiquing part shapes and part count to include assembly process planning, assembly sequence generation, assembly fixturing assessments, and assembly process costs. This work was primarily interested in identifying the information important to DFA tasks, and how that information could be captured using feature-based design. It was not intended to extend the state of the art in feature-based geometry creation, but rather to explore the uses of the information that can be captured. The prototype system has been programmed in LISP on Sun workstations. Its research contributions comprise integration of feature-based design with several existing and new assembly analysis and synthesis algorithms; construction of feature properties to meet the needs of those algorithms; a carefully chosen division of labor between designer and computer; and illustration of feature-based models of products as the information source for assembly analysis and process design. Some of its functions have been implemented approximately or partially but they give the flavor of the benefits to be expected from a fully functional system.
Indium zinc oxide mediated wafer bonding for III–V/Si tandem solar cells

Silicon-based tandem solar cells are desirable as a high efficiency, economically viable approach to one sun or low concentration photovoltaics. We present an approach to wafer bonded III–V/Si solar cells using amorphous indium zinc oxide (IZO) as an interlayer. We investigate the impact of a heavily doped III–V contact layer on the electrical and optical properties of bonded test samples, including the predicted impact on tandem cell performance. We present economic modeling which indicates that the path to commercial viability for bonded cells includes developing low-cost III–V growth and reducing constraints on material smoothness. If these challenges can be surmounted, bonded tandems on Si can be cost-competitive with incumbent PV technologies, especially in low concentration, single axis tracking systems.
An unusual cause of syncope while gardening

A 69-year-old female presented with four episodes of syncope in 2 months precipitated by bending forward while gardening. They were not associated with any prodromal symptoms, palpitations, or chest pain. On physical exam, a distinct low-frequency diastolic heart sound was heard at the left lower sternal border. Transthoracic echocardiogram illustrated a large mobile mass extending from the inferior …
Developing a reverse logistics competency

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore the influence of collaboration and information technology (IT) on the reverse logistics competency of firms. Through collaboration firms can improve their ability to handle returns, but this research introduces IT as providing a moderating influence over the impact of collaboration in the advancement of a reverse logistics competency. Design/methodology/approach – A survey was administered to employees involved with supply chain relationships. Empirical evidence from 267 respondents is analyzed with structural equation modeling. Findings – Support is found for the positive moderating influence of an IT competency on the relationship between collaboration and a reverse logistics competency. Additional benefits for logistics performance are also realized. Research limitations/implications – This research provides theoretical implications for the development of a reverse logistics competency through an application of resource-based theory/resource-based view ...
Learning with missing features

We introduce new online and batch algorithms that are robust to data with missing features, a situation that arises in many practical applications. In the online setup, we allow for the comparison hypothesis to change as a function of the subset of features that is observed on any given round, extending the standard setting where the comparison hypothesis is fixed throughout. In the batch setup, we present a convex relaxation of a non-convex problem to jointly estimate an imputation function, used to fill in the values of missing features, along with the classification hypothesis. We prove regret bounds in the online setting and Rademacher complexity bounds for the batch i.i.d. setting. The algorithms are tested on several UCI datasets, showing superior performance over baseline imputation methods.
Glutamate-modulating drugs & the treatment of mental disorders.

Glutamate, a novel neurotransmitter, may help explain how current psychotropic drugs work or be a target for new medications.
Serving some and serving all: how providers navigate the challenges of providing racially targeted health services

ABSTRACTObjectives: Racially targeted healthcare provides racial minorities with culturally and linguistically appropriate health services. This mandate, however, can conflict with the professional obligation of healthcare providers to serve patients based on their health needs. The dilemma between serving a particular population and serving all is heightened when the patients seeking care are racially diverse. This study examines how providers in a multi-racial context decide whom to include or exclude from health programs.Design: This study draws on 12 months of ethnographic fieldwork at an Asian-specific HIV organization. Fieldwork included participant observation of HIV support groups, community outreach programs, and substance abuse recovery groups, as well as interviews with providers and clients.Results: Providers managed the dilemma in different ways. While some programs in the organization focused on an Asian clientele, others de-emphasized race and served a predominantly Latino and African Ameri...
Seeing Library Data: A Prototype Data Visualization Application for Librarians

ABSTRACTVisualizations can add value to raw library data. Tools that programmatically make such visualizations interactive can further increase the value of these data by giving librarians visual tools to analyze their datasets. To demonstrate these benefits, Kingsborough Community College Library built SeeCollections (http://b7jl.org/seecollections), a Web application that visualizes the libraries’ collections of books and e-books. This article discusses the how SeeCollections gathers data from Kingsborough's discovery layer API (Application Programming Interface) and transforms these data to create visualizations for the Web. SeeCollections is a lightweight, proof-of-concept data application based on a vendor API. API data are often accessible in academic libraries but are frequently underutilized. SeeCollections was built to demonstrate the immediate value of these API data sources to Kingsborough librarians by providing a visual interface to discovery layer data. Keeping in mind the broader literature...
TGF-β1, in Synergy with M-CSF Induce Generation of a Novel Type of Human Cord Blood Dendritic Cell That Is Both Anti-Inflammatory and Capable of Ex-Vivo Expansion of Myeloid Progenitor Cells.

Tolerogenic dendritic cells (DCs) could be a promising cellular therapeutic tool in human transplantation due to their potential for silencing unwanted immune reactions. However, it is not known whether tolerogenic DCs are capable of regulating human hematopoiesis. We recently reported that M-CSF, in combination with IL-4, induced cord blood monocyte differentiation into a population of dendritic cells (DC) with tolerogenic potential (M-DC) (Li et.al. J. Immol. 174: 4706, 2005.). TGF-β1 has potent immune regulatory functions on DCs. In this context, we investigated effects of TGF-β1 on cord blood M-DC differentiation by characterizing phenotype, cytokine production and allogeneic mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR) of the resulting DC population (TGF/M-DC). We also evaluated effects of the resultant cells on expansion and growth factor withdrawal-induced apoptosis of human CD34+ progenitors isolated from cord blood. The effects were compared to those of TGF-β1, GM-CSF and IL-4-induced DCs (TGF/DC). Addition of TGF-β1 to highly purified cord blood monocytes cultured with M-CSF and IL-4 changed M-DC morphology to that of a homogeneous DC morphology (TGF/M-DC). Similar to M-DC, TGF/M-DC negatively stained for monocyte/macrophage markers CD14 and CD16, and positively stained for CD86 and HLA-DR, molecules involved in antigen presentation. It appeared that TGF/M-DC were bona fide DC with typical DC morphology and phenotype. In comparison with TGF-DC, TGF/M-DC produced high amounts of IL-10, but displayed reduced capacity in induction of allogeneic MLR, features categorizing them more appropriately into an anti-inflammatory DC subset. We generated conditioned medium (CM) from both types of DC by stimulation of these DC with LPS and studied effects of their CM on ex-vivo expansion of CD34+ progenitors isolated from cord blood. In the absence of DC CM, the combination of SCF, Flt3 ligand and TPO (SFT, a cytokine combination widely used for cell expansion) induced a 10.5 ± 1.8 fold expansion of myeloid progenitors (CFU-GM) in 1 week culture. TGF/M-DC CM (25% v/v), but not TGF DC CM, in synergy with SFT further expanded myeloid progenitors (CFU-GM) 19.4 ± 2.7 fold beyond that seen with SFT alone. The effects of TGF/M-DC CM was accompanied with a significant increase of CD34+ cell numbers after 1 week (TGF/M-DC CM in combination with SFT, TGF-DC CM in combination with SFT, and SFT alone expanded CD34+ cells by 8.4 ± 2.8 fold, 3.8 ± 2.8 fold and 5.9 ± 1.1 fold respectively). TGF/M-DC CM and TGF/DC CM prevented growth factor withdrawal-induced apoptosis of CD34+ cells, as analyzed by annexin-V staining. Therefore, TGF/M-DC might be capable of in vivo silencing of unwanted immune responses while promoting myeloid recovery. These features of TGF/M-DC make them an interesting cellular therapeutic candidate to potentially facilitate hematopoietic recovery as well as down-modulate unwanted immune responses after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.
Take up the caregiver's burden: Stories of care for Urban African American elders with dementia

This pilot study uses an anthropological gaze to analyze transcripts of extended in-home interviews among a set of ten caregivers of African-American elders with dementia. How are race and ethnicity made to matter in the recognition of, the meaning-making around and the responses to dementing illness among a sample of African-American caregivers? The essay contrasts prevailing cultural representations of African-American caregiver burden with caregiver interview data. What we find is that current constructs which consistently demonstrate “lesser burden” among African-American caregivers compared with Whites may not adequately capture these caregivers' experiences. Interpretations of experiences, meanings of “burden” and the logic of symptoms in the illness narratives generated by these African-American caregivers of elders with dementia require attention to the embodiment of large scale sociopolitical and historical forces like residential, educational and occupational segregation, institutional racism, and economic exploitation over the life course.
Assessment of potential environmental impacts of nature-based tours originating within Clark County, Nevada

ASSESSMENT OF POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF NATUREBASED TOURS ORIGINATING WITHIN CLARK COUNTY, NEVADA
Geometrical Structure of M

We denote by V an arbitrary vector space of dimension\( n\geq 1\) over the real numbers. A bilinear form on V is a map \(g\,:\,v\times v\longrightarrow\mathbb{R}\) that is linear in each variable, i.e., such that\( g(a_1v_1\,+a_2v_2,w)\,=\,a_1g(v_1,w)+a_2g(v_2,w)\) and\(g(v,a_1w_1+a_2w_2)\,=\,a_1g(v,w_1)+a_2g(v,w_2)\) whenever the a’s are real numbers and the v’s and w’s are elements of V. g is symmetric if\(g(w,v)\,=\,g(v,w)\) for all v and w and nondegenerate if\(g(v,w)\,=\,0v\) for all w in V implies v = 0.
"Like No One Is Listening to Me": A Qualitative Study of Patient-Provider Discordance Between Global Assessments of Disease Activity in Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Objective The objective of this study was to explore the perspectives and experiences of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) whose assessments of their disease differ from those of their rheumatology care provider. Methods A total of 20 adult RA patients with patient-provider discordance at their most recent rheumatology appointment (within 4 weeks) were recruited. Discordance was defined by an absolute difference of 25 or more between patient and provider global assessments on visual analog scales (VASs) of disease activity. For descriptive purposes, participants completed the Health Assessment Questionnaire II, pain VAS, and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 depression scale. Interviews were conducted in person and individually with each patient with a semistructured interview guide. Topics ranged widely, including participants’ perspectives and experiences with living with RA, clinical disease assessments, patient-provider communication, and psychosocial or other needs. Data from the interviews were analyzed using an interpretive phenomenological approach. Results Six major themes emerged from the patient interviews describing patient-provider discordance and disease assessment: being misunderstood by others, limitations of provider assessments, discrepancy with provider findings, inadequate active listening on the part of health care providers, unmet psychosocial needs, and lack of patient empowerment. Conclusion Patients described discordance in terms of symptom assessment and understanding how RA affects everyday life. Typical clinical assessments did not capture their experience. The resulting conceptual framework should inform future interventional studies seeking to enhance concordance of patient-physician communication and to optimize satisfaction with care and health-related quality-of-life outcomes for patients with RA. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Salvage of Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction in Nipple-Sparing Mastectomies With Autologous Flaps.

Background Implant-based breast reconstruction (IBR) after nipple-sparing mastectomies (NSM) can have complications that require explantation of a tissue expander or permanent prosthesis. When complications occur, preservation of the nipple-areola complex (NAC) remains critical to ensure aesthetic breast reconstruction. To date, there are minimal data on outcomes for patients experiencing unplanned explantations in IBR after NSM. Objectives To evaluate final reconstructive outcomes for NSM patients who undergo IBR and have an unplanned explanation and to separately analyze the outcome of the NAC aesthetic subunit. Methods We analyzed a prospectively maintained database of NSM patients undergoing IBR reconstruction at a single institution to identify patients who had complications resulting in unplanned explanation. Demographics, covariates, and reconstructive outcomes, including salvage with IBR or autologous flaps, were assessed. Final outcomes of the NAC were also evaluated. Results A total of 213 patients underwent 382 NSM with IBR with either direct-to-implant (DTI) or tissue expander/implant (TE/I) reconstructions. The complication rate was 15.2% (N = 58) and 33 (8.6%) unplanned explantations occurred: 23 (69.8%) of whom ultimately completed reconstruction with either IBR (30.4%) or autologous flaps (69.6%). NACs were preserved in 62.5% of breasts with unplanned explantations. Only 8 NACs were lost in the entire cohort (2.1%). Conclusions Following unplanned explantations in IBR after NSM, salvage can be performed with either IBR or autologous flaps. However, the majority of salvage procedures in IBR after NSM will be with autologous flaps that bring in healthy soft tissue to restore location specific defects caused by complications. The NAC can ultimately be preserved as an aesthetic subunit in most patients despite the occurrence of initial complications. Level of Evidence 4
Notation and Preliminaries

We shall assume once and for all that $$X = (\Omega ,\mathcal{F},{{\mathcal{F}}_{t}},{{X}_{t}},{{\theta }_{t}},{{P}^{x}})$$ is a right Markov process as defined in §8 of [S] with state space (E,e),semigroup (P t ), and resolvent (U q ). To be explicit E is a separable Radon space and e is the Borel σ -lgebra of E. A cemetery point △ is adjoined to E as an isolated point and E△: = E ∪ {△}, e△: = σ(e ∪ {△}). (The symbol “: =” should be read as “is defined to be”.) We suppose that [S, (20.5)] holds; that is, X t (ω) = △ implies that X s (ω) = △ for all s ≥ t and that there is a point [△] in Ω (the dead path) with X t ([△]) = △ for all t ≥ 0. Of course, ζ= inf {t: X t = △} is the lifetime of X. The filtration (F,F t ) is the augmented natural filtration of X, [S, (3.3)]. We shall always use e to denote the Borel σ -algebra of E in the original topology of E. Beginning in §20, Sharpe uses e to denote the Borel σ -algebra of E in the Ray topology. We shall not use this convention. We shall write e r for the σ -algebra of Ray Borel sets. These assumptions on X are weaker than those in [G] or [DM, XVI4]. Beginning in §6 we shall make an additional assumption on X. (See (6.2)). To avoid trivialities we assume throughout this monograph that X∞(ω) = △, θ0ω = ω, and θ ∞ ω = [△] for all ω ∈ Ω.
Effect of moisture on fracture toughness of composite/wood bonded interfaces

Current research on wood reinforcement has focused on the use of fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) strips or fabrics bonded to wood members. Although significant increases in stiffness and strength have been achieved by thisreinforcing technique, there is a concern about the reliable performance of the wood-FRP interface bond, which can be susceptible to delamination. The objective of this study is to present a combined analytical/ experimental study to evaluate the effect of moisture on fracture toughness of composite/wood bonded interfaces under Mode I loading. A contoured double cantilever beam (CDCB) specimen is used to characterize the fracture toughness of both wood-wood and wood-FRP samples. The specimens are designed by the Rayleigh Ritz method to achieve a linear rate of compliance with respect to crack length and are calibrated experimentally and also analytically by the finite element method. Both wood-wood and wood-FRP samples are tested under dry and wet conditions, and bonded interface fracture toughness data under Mode I loading are obtained. The guidelines and procedures for the modeling and design of CDCB specimens for hybrid or dissimilar adherends using a Rayleigh-Ritz model are presented briefly, and a modified Rayleigh-Ritz method is further developed. The effect of moisture on fracture toughness is evaluated, and increases in interface fracture toughness are observed due to moisture absorption for wet wood-wood and wood-FRP samples; the toughening of the interface under moisture is due mainly to a much more plastic fracture failure mode of the interface.
Retirement Migration to Unconventional Places

Conventional research on retirement migration often focuses on natural amenities and recreation opportunities as main drivers. However, other kinds of factors can be shown to attract older people. This chapter aims to describe and explore “unconventional retirement destinations” (URDs) that do not fit into the usual theoretical and methodological mold, with special interest in the influence of economic, health, and socio-cultural factors. Using statistical analysis, 108 counties in the nonmetropolitan United States were identified as having a higher rate of net in-migration at older ages than would be predicted by established ideas of the causal processes involved. Our descriptive analysis compares unconventional destinations with their more conventional counterparts in terms of general demographic and socio-economic characteristics. Then, our focus narrows to primary data collection in eight URD case study sites in an attempt to draw a meaningful picture of where, how, and why unconventional retirement destinations are formed. Finally, we present a base typology of URD counties along with implications for how these interact with local community planning. Our goal is for this typology to begin to inform both future research and policy decisions.
Dual roles of mitochondrial fusion gene FZO1 in yeast age asymmetry and in longevity mediated by a novel ATG32-dependent retrograde response

The replicative lifespan of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae models the aging of stem cells. Age asymmetry between the mother and daughter cells is established during each cell division, such that the daughter retains the capacity for self-renewal while this ability is diminished in the mother. The segregation of fully-functional mitochondria to daughter cells is one mechanism that underlies this age asymmetry. In this study, we have examined the role of mitochondrial dynamics in this phenomenon. Mitochondrial dynamics involve the processes of fission and fusion. Out of the three fusion and three fission genes tested, we have found that only FZO1 is required for the segregation of fully-functional mitochondria to daughter cells and in the maintenance of age asymmetry as manifested in the potential of daughters for a full replicative lifespan despite its deterioration in their mothers. The quality of mitochondria is determined by their turnover, and we have also discovered that deletion of FZO1 reduces mitophagy. Mitochondrial dysfunction elicits a compensatory retrograde response that extends replicative lifespan. Typically, the dysfunction that triggers this response encompasses energy production. The disruption of mitochondrial dynamics by deletion of FZO1 also activates the retrograde response to extend replicative lifespan. We call this novel pathway the mitochondrial dynamics-associated retrograde response (MDARR) because it is distinct in the signal proximal to the mitochondrion that initiates it. Furthermore, the MDARR engages the mitophagy receptor Atg32 on the mitochondrial surface, and we propose that this is due to the accumulation of Atg32-Atg11-Dnm1 complexes on the mitochondrion in the absence of Fzo1 activity. MDARR can be masked by the operation of the ‘classic’ retrograde response.
Review of Plato, 'The Laws', edited by Malcolm Schofield, translated by Tom Griffith, Cambridge University Press, 2016

For students and the general reader, this is the best English translation of the entire 'Laws' available. I give several examples of important lines that are translated well in this edition, but I take issue with the translation of some other lines and with part of Schofield's introduction on grounds that these parts do not reveal Plato's political and cosmic holism as clearly as they could have.
When justice answers to the president: Reexamining the effect of cabinet partisanship on human rights in presidential democracies

Recent research suggests that the administrations of presidents with diverse cabinets are less likely (and less able) to violate human rights. I posit that a more clear image of how (and where) rep...
Management factors associated with bovine respiratory disease in preweaned calves on California dairies: The BRD 100 study.

The objective of this cross-sectional study was to determine how management practices on California dairies may be associated with bovine respiratory disease (BRD) in preweaned calves. A convenience sample of 100 dairies throughout California, providing a study population of 4,636 calves, were visited between May 2014 and April 2016. During each farm visit, in-person interviews with the herd manager or calf caretaker were conducted to collect information about herd demographics, maternity pen, colostrum and calf management, herd vaccinations, and dust abatement. A random sample of preweaned calves was identified and evaluated for the presence of BRD using a standardized tool. A survey-adjusted generalized linear mixed model with a logit link function was fitted with calf as the unit of analysis and dairy as the random effect. Mean study herd size (±SE) was 1,718 (±189.9) cows. Survey-adjusted estimates of breed types in the sample were 81.6% (±0.6) Holstein, 13.1% (±0.4) Jersey, and 5.3% (±0.5) crossbred or other purebred breeds, and calf sex proportions were 73.8% (±1.0) female and 26.2% (±1.0) male. Overall survey-adjusted BRD prevalence in the study herds was 6.91% (±0.69). Housing factors positively associated with BRD were metal hutches compared with wood hutches [odds ratio (OR) = 11.19; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.80-44.78], calf-to-calf contact in calves >75 d of age (OR = 9.95, 95% CI = 1.50-65.86), feeding Holstein calves 5.68 L of milk or replacer per day to Jersey calves (OR = 0.04; 95% CI = 0.01-0.28) were negatively associated with BRD. Our study identified management practices on California dairies with variability and that may contribute to differences in BRD prevalence, which will be incorporated into a risk-assessment tool to control and prevent BRD in preweaned dairy calves.
A Security System Built with Mobile and IoT Technologies

According to the U.S. Bureau of Justice, there were 15.9 million property crimes in the U.S. in 2016. It is at a rate of 119.4 invasions per 1,000 households. Home security providers, such as ADT, charge consumers monthly subscription fees for home monitoring system and services. In this research, we address this issue by proposing an easy-to-use, customizable and affordable home security system for the public. Total Security, a Raspberry Pi-based home security system, was designed to monitor and control your home security remotely. The whole system consists of a system server, Raspberry Pi devices, sensors and an Android application. MQ Telemetry Transport (MQTT) Paho protocol is implemented to communicate between sensors, system server and the Android application. With the use of Total Security Android application, the users can connect to the self-monitoring security system, arm and disarm the system, monitor real-time status of sensors, enable notification upon sensor activation, and view logs of system activity. The contribution of this research is that we demonstrated it is possible to build an affordable home security system with existing devices and technologies. Total Security not only provides the users with an ability to fully control their home security system remotely, but it also considers the extendibility by implementing state-of-the-art protocols.
Effects of electromechanical reshaping on mechanical behavior of exvivo bovine tendon.

Abstract Background Electromechanical reshaping is a novel, minimally invasive means to induce mechanical changes in connective tissues, and has the potential to be utilized in lieu of current orthopedic therapies that involve tendons and ligaments. Electromechanical reshaping delivers an electrical current to tissues while under mechanical deformation, causing in situ redox changes that produce reliably controlled and spatially limited mechanical and structural changes. In this study, we examine the feasibility of altering Young's modulus and inducing a shape deformation using an ex vivo bovine Achilles tendon model. Methods Tendon was mechanically deformed in two different modes: (1) elongation to assess for tensile modulus and (2) compression to assess for compressive modulus. Electromechanical reshaping was applied to tendon specimens via flat plate platinum electrodes (6 V, 3 min) while simultaneously under mechanical strain for 15 min. Findings In elongation mode, post-electromechanical reshaping samples demonstrated a significant decrease in Young's modulus compared to pretreatment samples (66.02 and 45.12 MPa, respectively, p Interpretation Results demonstrated a tissue softening effect without lengthening deformation during elongation, and a shortening effect without compromising compressive stiffness during compression. Electromechanical reshaping's reliable, low-cost, and efficacious methodology in inducing mechanical and structural connective tissue modifications illustrates a potential for future alternative orthopedic applications. Future studies will optimize and refine electromechanical reshaping to address clinically relevant geometries and methods such as needle techniques.
Digital Therapeutic Self-Management Intervention in Adolescents With Migraine: Feasibility and Preliminary Efficacy of "Migraine Manager".

OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to design, code, and pilot test the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a self-management digital therapeutic tool for adolescents with migraine. BACKGROUND Self-management of migraine in adolescents is complex and has important implications for health outcomes. A comprehensive and accessible approach to self-management is needed for youth with migraine, their parents, and clinicians. METHODS An iterative co-design process was used to develop and optimize the Migraine Manager's digital therapeutic self-management tool. Subsequently, 40 adolescents, age 11-18 years, were enrolled in an 8-week single-arm open label trial (N = 36 analyzed). The primary outcome was headache days. RESULTS Usage data for Migraine Manager were similar to other health app usage data and feedback from participants was uniformly positive, indicating acceptable feasibility. Preliminary efficacy was demonstrated by a reduction in headache days from 17.2 ± 8.5 at baseline to 7.9 ± 7.2 at 8 weeks (95% CI, -13.0 to -7.8; P < .001). There was also statistically significant improvement in patient physical functioning quality of life reported by both patients (baseline = 55.7 ± 20.4; 8 weeks = 69.7 ± 21.9, P = .005) and parents (baseline = 58.5 ± 22.8; 8 weeks = 74.3 ± 18.1, P = .002), and in parent-reported ingestion issues subscale of the adherence barriers scale from baseline to 8 weeks (baseline = 6.0 ± 2.6; 8 weeks = 5.2 ± 3.0, P = .020). CONCLUSIONS A self-management digital therapeutic tool for adolescents with migraine can offer care to patients who might not otherwise receive such services. Migraine Manager demonstrated the feasibility and preliminary efficacy in this pilot trial, highlighting the potential beneficial impact of this tool. Larger controlled trials with long-term follow-up are needed to definitively determine the clinical efficacy of Migraine Manager.
Working With Families in Medical Settings : A Multidisciplinary Guide for Psychiatrists and Other Health Professionals

Working With Families in Medical Settings provides mental-health professionals with the tools they need to figure out what patients and families want and how, within the constraints imposed by 21st-century healthcare setting, to best give them the care they need. Psychiatrists and other clinicians who work in medical settings know that working with a patient with a chronic illness usually entails work with that patient’s family as well as with other medical professionals. Some families need education; others have specific difficulties or dysfunctions that require skilled assessment and intervention. It is up to the clinician to find productive ways to work with common themes in family life: expressed emotion, levels of resilience, life-cycle issues, and adaptation to illness, among others. Enter Working With Families in Medical Settings, which shines a spotlight on the major issues professional caregivers face and shows them how to structure an effective intervention in all kinds of settings. Psychiatrists, particularly those in psychosomatic medicine, and other clinicians who work with the medically ill will find Working With Families in Medical Settings to be an essential resource and guide to productive relationships with patients and their families.
À République séculaire, public pluriel : Abd al Malik rappe sa transnationalité et sa transmusicalité:

Cet article vise a analyser l’œuvre musicale et litteraire de l’artiste francais Abd al Malik afin d’etablir un portrait du public qu’elle attire. Malik semble avoir epouse le pluriel « s » de « mu...
Alcohol use among older adults and health care utilization.

Examinations of the association between health care utilization and levels of alcohol use are lacking in nationally representative samples of older adults. The present study set out to fill this ga...
Whole Milk and Full-Fat Dairy Products and Hypertensive Risks.

Lifestyle modifications in the form of diet and exercise are generally a first-line approach to reduce hypertensive risk and overall cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Accumulating research evidence has revealed that consumption of non- and low-fat dairy products incorporated into the routine diet is an effective means to reduce elevated blood pressure and improve vascular functions. However, the idea of incorporating whole-fat or full-fat dairy products in the normal routine diet as a strategy to reduce CVD risk has been met with controversy. The aim of this review is to review both sides of the argument surrounding saturated fat intake and CVD risk from the standpoint of dairy intake. Throughout the review, we examined observational studies on relationships between CVD risk and dairy consumption, dietary intervention studies using non-fat and whole-fat dairy, and mechanistic studies investigating physiological mechanisms of saturated fat intake that may help to explain increases in cardiovascular disease risk. Currently available data have demonstrated that whole-fat dairy is unlikely to augment hypertensive risk when added to the normal routine diet but may negatively impact CVD risk. In conclusion, whole-fat dairy may not be a recommended alternative to non- or low-fat dairy products as a means to reduce hypertensive or overall CVD risk.
Experimental weathering of a volcaniclastic critical zone profile: Key role of colloidal constituents in aqueous geochemical response

Abstract Weathering profiles are often complex, extending from more highly transformed materials in the near surface (e.g., mobile soils) to less weathered parent material (e.g., variably porous bedrock) at depth. It is difficult to resolve from field data the impacts of material properties on the short-term rates of mineral weathering when different depths of the profile are reacted with aggressive meteoric waters (i.e., dilute and undersaturated with respect to primary silicates). In the present study, we aimed to measure variation in mineral transformation reactions that occurs under controlled laboratory conditions for samples collected as a function of depth (e.g., spatial distribution of geologic texture, mineral assemblage, and weathering features) across a deep weathering profile in volcaniclastic parent rock. We conducted a series of batch weathering experiments of extracted core materials from two borings to 35 m across a zero-order catchment in the rhyolitic Jemez River Basin Critical Zone Observatory, NM, USA. Upon reaction with aqueous solutions pre-equilibrated with atmospheric CO2, mineral dissolution was not limited to one phase, but included a combination of reactions including (at decreasing weathering rates) calcite > zeolites > phyllosilicates > amorphous SiO2 > feldspar. Mineral transformation rates were dependent on the mineral assemblage, texture, and legacy of hydrothermal alteration. Results also indicated an important role of existing and neoformed colloids in Al, Si, and Fe mobilization and redistribution, especially for materials with evidence of previous hydrothermal alteration. Volcanic breccia, which makes up the top 14 m of the western portion of the catchment, was comprised primarily of weathered lithics, where aqueous solution chemistry was controlled by rapid calcite dissolution/precipitation reactions. Hydrothermally altered tuff, which makes up the top 15 m over most of the catchment, exhibited initial dispersion of colloidal zeolites, which subsequently dissolved, giving rise to smectite precipitation (either in-situ and/or along flowpaths). Solute signatures deriving from water/rock interactions in deep, hydrothermally-altered vesicular tuff were comparable to those in shallow altered tuff, but different from those in deep, unaltered, fracture-dominated tuff. We attribute differences to reactive surface area susceptible to chemical attack by aggressive waters (greater in altered rocks) and primary mineral shielding by Fe and Mn oxides on fracture surfaces in unaltered tuff. This study highlights the use of experimental weathering of extracted cores to help interpret field-based, hydrochemistry with an approach that may be employed in other geologically complex terrains.
The Nature and Origins of Mass Opinion: The mainstream and polarization effects

With the national inflation rate approaching the then-startling level of 7 percent, President Nixon went on television in late summer 1971 to announce a surprise decision to impose wage and price controls on the economy. Although such controls were a major departure from administration policy, the decision was immediately hailed by commentators across the political spectrum as a necessary step in the battle against inflation. By good luck, there exist excellent data on the effect of Nixon's speech on public attitudes. A Columbia University survey of political activists happened to be in the field at the time of Nixon's announcement, and Gallup surveys on price controls bracketed the speech. The Columbia study found, first of all, that the speech had little effect on Democratic activists, who tended to favor wage and price controls even before Nixon spoke. But the effect of the speech on Republican activists was dramatic. Virtually overnight, support for controls among Republican activists shot up from 37 percent to 82 percent, a rise of some 45 percentage points (Barton, 1974–5). The Gallup surveys, meanwhile, showed that the public as a whole became about 10 percentage points more favorable toward price controls in the weeks following the Nixon speech. This case suggests that a popular president backed by a unified Washington community can have a powerful effect on public opinion, especially that part of the public that is most attentive to politics.