cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Recombination with lipids of the lipid-free protein from canine serum (d 1.063-1.2 1, α1) lipoprotein

SUMMARY The protein ( aP), prepared by delipidation of canine serum al-lipoprotein (aLP), when labeled with 1131 and injected into dogs, waa metabolized at the same rate as native aLP, labeled in the protein moiety with 1131. When aP-P waa added to serum or injected into dogs, the radioactivity promptly appeared only in the aLP fraction, indicating a preferential interaction of the labeled protein with ita own lipoprotein class. The nature of this interaction was not established. Mixing of aP-1131 with the low density lipoprotein class (PLP), in absence of serum, yielded two radioactive fractions, floating at d 1.063 and d 1.21. These two fractions had electrophoretic mobility similar to radioiodinated native BLP and aLP. In the absence of serum, aP-P1 reacted also with chylomicrons from serum or chyle. When the radioactive chylomicrons thus formed were injected into dogs, their disappearance from circulation paralleled that of an injected Lipomul (artificial triglyceride em~lsion)-aLP-I~3~ complex. In both instances the disappearance of triglycerides was accompanied by appearance of radioactivity in the aLP fraction of plasma. When Lipomul was given intravenously to dogs injected with aLP-113', it combined with a small amount of this labeled lipoprotein. The possible participation of aLP in the metabolism of triglycerides is briefly diecussed. Studies from this laboratory have shown that the high density d 1.063-1.21 lipoprotein of human serum can be freed of practically all its lipids to yield a protein, apparently undenatured and identical from the immunochemical standpoint, with the native lipoprotein (1, 2). Further, in vitro experiments have shown that this lipid-free protein has high avidity for lipids and, under suitable conditions, combines with them to reconstitsUte the original protein-lipid complex (3). The studies reported below deal with the in vitro and in z$/o recombining capacity for lipids of the lipid-free protein from d 1.063-1.21 lipoprotein of canine serum.
Response of Long Sculpted Wire Bonds to Vibrational Excitation

The pitch of wire bond connections is decreasing to meet the need for higher interconnect densities, while at the same time, the ratio of wire length to diameter is increasing, which lowers the mechanical resonant frequency of the wire. In many applications in which MEMS sensors are coupled with ASIC front end electronics, the bonded wires can be subjected to a wide frequency spectrum of mechanical vibrations. One potential consequence is that the parasitic capacitances of the sensor could vary dynamically at a magnitude comparable to that of the sensor signal. In extreme cases, intermittent shorts or fatigue failures of the wire bonds could occur. A recent paper by Barber et. al, showed that wire bonds carrying alternating currents in a strong magnetic field could suffer fatigue failure.[1] Their analysis and experiments focused on simple loop geometries. In many applications, more complex wire bond geometries are used to minimize loop height and obtain dense wiring in stacked chip configurations. These ...
Use of Cryopreservation in Breeding Programs

Cultivated crop species, all over the world, are being improved continuously in order to meet the demand for more food, feed and fibre. Traditionally, crop improvement is based on conventional plant breeding strategies and this approach has resulted in the production and release of superior varieties of all major food crops. The breeding priorities are, however, dictated by the immediate needs of the consumer, with emphasis placed on developing crop species with increased yield, nutritional quality and resistance to pests, pathogens, and adverse environment. In order to ensure that new varieties of crop species are available to meet future demands, it becomes imperative that a high priority be accorded now for the acquisition and preservation of all valuable germplasm even if these germplasms are not required at this point in time. Additionally, with the emphasis placed globally on sustainable agriculture, preservation of plant genetic resources has become a high priority agenda.
The identification of serotonergic neurons

Summary We hope that our focus article as well as the commentaries by Huang, Christie, and Wessendorf will encourage the readers to consider the puzzle of serotonin's role in pain modulation. As highlighted in Huang's commentary, more research is particularly necessary with regard to serotonin's actions within the spinal cord. In designing and performing these experiments, we urge our colleagues to consider that: (1) serotonergic cells are likely to use a tonic, concentration-dependent code and (2) serotonin release is likely to modulate the effects of other neurotransmitters as well as have effects on its own.
Measuring hope among families impacted by cognitive impairment

The current exploratory investigation aims to establish the reliability and validity of a hope measure, the Herth Hope Index (HHI), among families impacted by early cognitive impairment (N=96). Exploratory factor analysis was used to examine the dimensionality of the measure. Bivariate analyses were used to examine construct validity. The sample had moderately high hope scores. A two-factor structure emerged from the factor analysis, explaining 51.44% of the variance. Both factors exhibited strong internal consistency (Cronbach’s alphas ranged from .83 to .86). Satisfaction with social support was positively associated with hope, supporting convergent validity. Neurocognitive status, illness insight and depression were not associated with hope, indicating discriminant validity. Families impacted by cognitive impairment may maintain hope in the face of a potentially progressive illness, regardless of cognitive status. The HHI can be utilized as a reliable and valid measure of hope by practitioners providing support to families impacted by cognitive impairment.
Some Anatomical and Behavioral Adaptations of Ringtails, Bassariscus astutus

Rotation of the hind foot and associated climbing techniques, plus other adaptations associated with climbing rocks and trees by ringtails ( Bassariscus astutus ), were studied in captivity and under natural and seminatural conditions in Zion National Park, Utah. The ringtail hind foot can rotate externally at least 180 degrees, permitting rapid head-first descent of rocks, cliffs, trees, narrow slab edges, and thin branches, sometimes without the use of claws. Examination of X-rays and articular facets show that rotation occurs at the hip-femur, calcaneum-talus, and intratarsal joints. Other adaptive behavior includes “chimney stemming” between vertical walls, “ricocheting” off vertical surfaces, accurate “power leaping,” techniques to reverse direction on narrow ledges, and claustrophilia.
Let Them Eat (Genetically Re-engineered) Cake and the Little Purple Pill: A Rejoinder to Miles, Munilla and Covin

This paper critiques a recent article in this journal in terms of its use of persuasive techniques. The central issue of the original article by Miles, Munilla and Covin and this paper is whether there should be a change in intellectual property rights to address the needs of impoverished people who are HIV positive or have full blown AIDS and the countries that do not have the means to buy AIDS medication in the absence of subsidies. This paper argues that patents are state sanctioned monopolies that worked effectively for nearly a century. However, new circumstances and a globally interdependent world represent a new environment calling for an adjustment in the conventional public policy premises underlying patents. Most of the meaning and complexity of this issue is lost to the persuasive techniques of the original article.
An analysis of entry level management requirements: are there differences in perceptions of hospitality recruiters versus hospitality students?

ABSTRACTThe purpose of the study was to identify existing gaps between recruiters and students regarding the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for entry-level management positions in the hospitality industry. Regardless of the study approach used, previous studies have consistently found such a gap. Based on a list of 27 statements generated from previous studies, along with additional new statements, the researchers found that the perception gap between recruiters and students consisted of only three factors: statements concerning relocation, ethical standards, and self-discipline. These study findings suggest that the gap found in previous studies has been narrowed. To narrow the gap further, recruiters may play a more active role in the selection and recruitment process. Scholars may also inculcate “soft skills” into their curriculum to better prepare entry-level managers to meet the necessary requirements.
Pharmacological properties of histamine-sensitive adenylate cyclase from guinea pig cardiac ventricular muscle

An adenylate cyclase that is stimulated by low concentrations of histamine (ka, 6 µM) has been studied in cell-free preparations of guinea pig cardiac ventricular muscle. The characteristics of activation of this adenylate cyclase by histamine receptor agonists, and of inhibition of this enzyme by H2-receptor antagonists (e.g., metiamide, cimetidine), indicate that this histamine-sensitive adenylate cyclase possesses pharmacological properties similar to those of an H2-receptor as defined by physiological experiments in peripheral tissues. Thus, the activation of this adenylate cyclase by histamine may be an early step in the sequence of biochemical events through which histamine acting at H2-receptors exerts its positive inotropic effects on cardiac ventricular muscle. The stimulation of adenylate cyclase activity by histamine was also competitively inhibited by several H1-receptor antagonists (e.g., mepyramine, diphenhydramine, promethazine) and by several imidazole-N-methyl transferase (INMT) inhibitors (e.g., quinacrine, etoprine). The results indicate that many structurally diverse compounds known to interact with various histamine binding proteins (i.e., the H2-receptor, as well as the H1-receptor and the histamine catabolic enzyme INMT) are capable of interacting with H2-receptors coupled to adenylate cyclase in heart. Furthermore, quantitative differences in the inhibition constants of H2-receptor antagonists, H1-receptor antagonists, and INMT inhibitors for the histamine-sensitive adenylate cyclases from guinea pig heart and brain suggest the existence of tissue heterogeneity in the pharmacological properties of H2-receptors.
A mathematical model for apoptotic switch in Drosophila

Apoptosis is an evolutionarily-conserved process of autonomous cell death. The molecular switch mechanism underlying the fate decision of apoptosis in mammalian cells has been intensively studied by mathematical modeling. In contrast, the apoptotic switch in invertebrates, with highly conserved signaling proteins and pathway, remains poorly understood mechanistically and calls for theoretical elucidation. In this study, we develop a mathematical model of the apoptosis pathway in Drosophila and compare the switch mechanism to that in mammals. Enumeration of the elementary reactions for the model demonstrates that the molecular interactions among the signaling components are considerably different from their mammalian counterparts. A notable distinction in network organization is that the direct positive feedback from the effector caspase (EC) to the initiator caspase in mammalian pathway is replaced by a double-negative regulation in Drosophila. The model is calibrated by experimental input-output relationship and the simulated trajectories exhibit all-or-none bimodal behavior. Bifurcation diagrams confirm that the model of Drosophila apoptotic switch possesses bistability, a well-recognized feature for an apoptosis system. Since the apoptotic protease activating factor-1 (APAF1) induced irreversible activation of caspase is an essential and beneficial property for the mammalian apoptotic switch, we perform analysis of the bistable caspase activation with respect to the input of DARK protein, the Drosophila homolog of APAF1. Interestingly, this bistable behavior in Drosophila is predicted to be reversible. Further analysis suggests that the mechanism underlying the systems property of reversibility is the double-negative feedback from the EC to the initiator caspase. Using theoretical modeling, our study proposes plausible evolution of the switch mechanism for apoptosis between organisms.
Expression profile of SIRT2 in human melanoma and implications for sirtuin-based chemotherapy

Melanoma is cancer of melanin-containing melanocyte cells. This neoplasm is one of the most deadly forms of skin cancer, and currently available therapeutic options are insufficient in significantly improve outcomes for many patients. Therefore, novel targets are required to effectively manage this neoplasm. Several sirtuins have previously been found to be upregulated in melanoma, so in this study, the expression profile of SIRT2 was determined. Employing a tissue microarray containing benign nevi, primary melanomas, and lymph node metastases, we have found that the tissue from lymph node metastases appears to have a significant upregulation of SIRT2 relative to primary tumors across the nuclear, cytoplasmic, and whole cell data. Additionally, SIRT2 staining was found to be higher in the nucleus of metastatic melanomas compared to cytoplasmic staining. As SIRT2 is considered to be a predominantly cytoplasmic protein, this is a novel and very interesting finding. This, combined with previous studies that show other sirtuins are increased in melanoma and involved in cellular proliferation and survival, leads to the suggestion that exploring pan-sirtuin inhibitors may be the best target for the next iteration of melanoma chemotherapeutics.
Turning-Point Problems for Ordinary Differential Equations of Hydrodynamic Type

Publisher Summary This chapter describes turning-point problems for ordinary differential equations of hydrodynamic type. The equations that govern the stability of parallel shear flows are typically of order four or six and they lead to a wide variety of turning-point problems. The chapter discusses a method based on the use of a certain class of generalized Airy functions that leads in a natural way to the concept of first approximations. These approximations can then be used to derive a corresponding approximation to the eigenvalue relation. Alternatively, the eigenvalue problem can be formulated in terms of certain compound matrices, and this approach leads to an interesting turning point problem for a system of equations of order six. For general velocity profiles, the inner expansions of the solutions of dominant–recessive type can be expressed to all orders in terms of the generalized Airy functions Ak(ζ,p,q) (p=0,±l,±2,… ; q=0,1,2,…). To three orders, however, the inner expansions can be expressed in terms of Ak(ζ,p,0) = Ak(ζ,p) and this suggests that the first approximations in the general case are with an error of the order of ɛ loge. The slowly-varying coefficients that appear in the uniform approximations can all be expressed in terms of quantities that are well-known from the heuristic theory.
The Reasons Why Software has a Bad Name

Abstract Using System X development experience the paper describes very briefly the total development environment to illustrate the problems of managing software projects. There is an emphasis on how important problems of software management and development were overcome. The paper also exposes some of the myths and draws attention to the main weaknesses of the software industries' approach to software development today.
Catheter-Related Bloodstream Infection

Hemodialysis access-related bloodstream infections are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in children maintained on hemodialysis. The rates of these infections are highly variable in large part due to the inconsistent definitions used to diagnose these infections and the failure to clearly delineate between primary and access-related bloodstream infections. Although standard treatment of catheter-related bloodstream infections routinely includes removal of the catheter, this therapeutic maneuver is difficult to implement in hemodialysis patients who require that access for life-sustaining dialysis and in children in whom sites for vascular access may be limited. The following case seeks to highlight the importance of this distinction as well as the unique aspects of treating access-related infections in pediatric hemodialysis patients. The case discussion will also review efforts to minimize the risk for these infections.
A Community-Based Marketing Campaign at Farmers Markets to Encourage Fruit and Vegetable Purchases in Rural Counties With High Rates of Obesity, Kentucky, 2015–2016

Availability of farmers markets may increase fruit and vegetable consumption among rural residents of the United States. We conducted a community-based marketing campaign, Plate it Up Kentucky Proud (PIUKP), in 6 rural communities over 2 years to determine the association between exposure to the campaign and fruit and vegetable purchases, adjusted for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program recipient status. Logistic regression was used to examine the odds of the PIUKP campaign influencing purchases. Awareness of the PIUKP marketing campaign was significantly associated with a willingness to prepare fruits and vegetables at home. Using marketing strategies at farmers markets may be an effective way to improve fruit and vegetable purchases in rural communities.
Teaching the Division-by-Subtraction Process.

x he division-by-subtraction process taught in most of today's elementary mathematics series includes three levels of performance. These are "functional" levels. That is, a child can function on level 1 without ever moving to level 2 and leave elementary school on that level. Some contemporary elementary authors do a commendable job of making it clear to the teacher that these are functional levels and that the child should be permitted to operate on a level commensurate with his ability. In some programs it is not so obvious. But in most programs the three levels are identifiable; and a teacher who is aware of them can guide each pupil to the level where he is able to function with success.
The Role of Ion Channels in Hypoxic Pulmonary Vasoconstriction

Hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction (HPV) is an important mechanism by which localized flow of blood in small resistance pulmonary arteries is matched to alveolar ventilation. This chapter discusses the role of several potassium and calcium channels in HPV, both in enhancing calcium influx into smooth muscle cells (SMCs) and in stimulating the release of calcium from the sarcoplasmic reticulum, thus increasing cytosolic calcium. The increase in calcium sensitivity caused by hypoxia is reviewed in Chapter 19. Particular attention is paid to the activity of the L-type calcium channels which increase calcium influx as a result of membrane depolarization and also increase calcium influx at any given membrane potential in response to hypoxia. In addition, activation of the L-type calcium channel may, in the absence of any calcium influx, cause calcium release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum. Many of these mechanisms have been reported to be involved in both HPV and in normoxic contraction of the ductus arteriosus.
Matrix Perturbation of Vibrational Isotope Effects

Intermolecular potential energy functions associated with the solvation of small molecules affect their chemical reactivity and other properties of general importance. Matrix-isolation sampling can provide prototype solvation conditions for some molecules, and spectroscopic studies can yield matrix-induced vibrational frequency shifts and other resolved data for heavy atom isotopomers. In this discussion vibrational isotope effects for small matrix-isolated molecules [e.g. HCOOH and (LiF)1,2,3,4] are considered with respect to their behavior in different matrices [e.g. Rg, N2, CO, CO2]. A goal for this type of research is an evaluation of the use of the matrix perturbation of isotope effects as a tool for characterizing matrix trapping sites and for exposing important anharmonicities in the vibrational PEF of the solute molecule.
Group composition and intelligent dialogue tutors for impacting students' academic self-efficacy

In this paper, we explore using an intelligent dialogue tutor to influence student academic self-efficacy, as well as its interaction with group self-efficacy composition in a dyadic learning environment. We find providing additional tutor prompts encouraging students to participate in discussion may have unexpected negative effects on self-efficacy, especially on students with low self-efficacy scores who have partners with low self-efficacy scores.
Spontaneous rib fractures in a black woman with familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia.

Background: Familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia (FHH) is a rare but important consideration in the differential diagnosis of hypercalcemia. FHH results from an autosomal dominantly inherited inactivating mutation of the calcium sensing receptor (CaSR) gene and is typically associated with a benign clinical course and normal bone mineral density. Case Report: We describe the unusual case of a 57-year old African American woman with spontaneous rib fractures who was found to have FHH due to a novel set of polymorphisms of the CaSR gene. She also had hypertension, esophageal reflux disease treated with proton pump inhibitors, osteopenia by DEXA scanning, and a prior left ankle fracture in the absence of significant trauma. There was no suggestive family history and her only sibling had a normal serum calcium. The patient was evaluated extensively for potential causes of osteoporotic fractures. Conclusions: It is imperative to screen for FHH using 24-hour urinary calcium and creatinine excretion in subjects with hypercalcemia irrespective of ethnicity and a history of non-traumatic rib fractures. This approach may prevent unnecessary neck exploration for parathyroidectomy which is unwarranted in FHH.
Biopharmaceutics and Veterinary Drug Delivery

Biopharmaceutics operates at the interface of pharmaceutics and physi­ology. This chapter discusses observations and studies that emphasize the similarities and differences in species and routes of administration while providing references for notable reviews. The quintessential requirement of drug dissolution is discussed for immediate release formulations, and the use of biodegradable microspheres is reviewed for controlled release injectable formulations. From nasal and ocular to transdermal and oral, examples of formulations for veterinary practice are presented. If the formulation and the biopharmaceutics results in a well-absorbed drug product in one species, would it will behave similarly in other species? We can predict this when we have a sound understanding of the sometimes specie-specific physiology, and pharmaceutical knowledge of the formulation. With numerous routes of administration and preclinical studies already public knowledge, we may be on the brink of the golden age of veterinary pharmaceuticals.
On the Channel Estimation of Multi-Cell Massive FD-MIMO Systems

While massive multiple-input multiple-output system (MIMO) promises to provide substantial increase in spectral efficiency-per- cell, due to high dimensionality, estimating its channel is considered as one of the major challenges towards extracting all the benefits of such large antenna systems. In this paper, based on parametric channel modeling, we present a direction of arrival (DoA) estimation method for multi-cell multi-user 3D massive-MIMO/Full Dimension (FD-MIMO) orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) system using estimation of signal parameter via rotational invariance technique (ESPRIT). Furthermore, we analytically characterize the performance of ESPRIT-based DoA estimation in multiuser scenario, and investigate how pilot contamination, intra-cell, and inter-cell interference affect DoA estimation performance.
Clinical Considerations Regarding the Use of Obesity Pharmacotherapy in Adolescents with Obesity

A growing number of youth suffer from obesity and in particular severe obesity for which intensive lifestyle intervention does not adequately reduce excess adiposity. A treatment gap exists wherein effective treatment options for an adolescent with severe obesity include intensive lifestyle modification or metabolic and bariatric surgery while the application of obesity pharmacotherapy remains largely underutilized. These youth often present with numerous obesity-related comorbid diseases, including hypertension, dyslipidemia, prediabetes/type 2 diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, musculoskeletal problems, and psychosocial issues such as depression, anxiety, and social stigmatization. Current pediatric obesity treatment algorithms for pediatric primary care providers focus primarily on intensive lifestyle intervention with escalation of treatment intensity through four stages of intervention. Although a recent surge in the number of Food and Drug Administration-approved medications for obesity treatment has emerged in adults, pharmacotherapy options for youth remain limited. Recognizing treatment and knowledge gaps related to pharmacological agents and the urgent need for more effective treatment strategies in this population, discussed here are the efficacy, safety, and clinical application of obesity pharmacotherapy in youth with obesity based on current literature. Legal ramifications, informed consent regulations, and appropriate off-label use of these medications in pediatrics are included, focusing on prescribing practices and prescriber limits.
Risk Factors for Cerebral Desaturation Events During Shoulder Surgery in the Beach Chair Position.

Purpose The goals of this study were 2-fold: (1) to determine the risk factors for cerebral desaturation events (CDEs) after implementation of a comprehensive surgical and anesthetic protocol consisting of patient risk stratification, maintenance of normotensive anesthesia, and patient positioning in a staged fashion, and (2) to assess for subclinical neurologic decline associated with intraoperative ischemic events through cognitive testing. Methods One hundred patients undergoing shoulder surgery in the beach chair position were stratified for risk of CDE based on Framingham stroke criteria, body mass index (BMI), and history of cerebrovascular accidents. Cerebral oxygen saturation was monitored with near-infrared spectroscopy. As per a standardized protocol, mean arterial pressure was maintained between 70 and 90 mm Hg. The head was raised in 2 stages separated by 3 minutes. CDE were defined as >20% drop from baseline or Results The CDE rate was 4% overall and 4.3% in patients undergoing general anesthesia. Forty-five patients were in the higher risk category, and all CDEs occurred in that group. Patients with a Framingham score ≥ 10 or BMI ≥ 35 who underwent general anesthesia had an increased risk of CDE (P = .04). No significant change was noted in Mini-Mental State Examination scores between pre- and postoperative visits. No correlation was shown between CDE and history of diabetes, smoking, cardiovascular disease, or left ventricular hypertrophy. Conclusions Our observed CDE rate was lower than previously reported rates, likely because of risk stratification, staged positioning, and normotensive anesthesia. Framingham score ≥ 10 and BMI ≥ 35 are risk factors for CDE in the beach chair position. Level of Evidence Level II, prospective observational study with >80% follow-up.
AN ASSESSMENT OF THE UNITED NATIONS SCALE OF ASSESSMENTS, 1946-1994

Never have so many argued so much about so little money as in the United Nations. – Stoessinger (1964, p. 3)
Beam Theory for Asymptotic Analysis of Aperiodic and Inhomogeneous Structures

Aircraft preliminary design and optimization relies on the dynamic response of complex structures such as wings. This analysis cannot leverage high-fidelity analysis that typically involves computa...
Small RNAs in the Maillot Jaune: Transcriptional Analysis of the Plant Cell Cycle.

The cell cycle is a tightly coordinated dance with the ultimate goal of dividing one cell into two. Eukaryotic cells tend to divide in the same general pattern, broadly reduced to four phases: cells increase organelle content in the G1 phase, DNA replication occurs in S phase, cells grow in size and
Psychology Confronts 9/11: Explanations, Shortcomings, and Challenges

September 11th, 2001 can arguably be described as a day that changed America. Americans responded with a mix of anger, intolerance and compassion. The first objective of this paper is to provide an overview of how academic psychology explained the American response to the attacks. Sacred-value theory and terror management theory are useful in explaining how people respond when their cultural and moral worldviews are threatened. Intergroup emotion theory is useful in explaining how negative emotions can be generated and directed toward out-groups. The second objective is to review how psychology explained the perpetrators motivations. An ecological systems model is used to organize terrorism research. Most psychological research focuses on individual internal processes on small group dynamics. Due to limited methodological choices, psychology has been somewhat ill equipped to explain terrorist motivations. The third objective is to assess the national security role that academic psychology has played since 9/11. In modern times psychology has always played a consulting role in national security issues. After 9/11 psychology stepped up its role, especially in the controversial “enhanced interrogations.” The chapter concludes by reviewing psychology’s attempt to seek solutions to terrorism.
Innovations in economic education: Promising practices for teachers and students, K-16

Economic integration in the K-16 space is one facet of the American education system that depicts inadequacy yet potential. Mary Beth Henning alongside several educational specialists and economists illustrate how economics can be taught in a multidisciplinary manner through the mandated disciplines, such as math, reading, and history. The authors of this book demonstrate the need for students to develop an economic way of thinking through three majors themes focusing on: interdisciplinary integration of economics, blended learning, and economic educator preparation. I would highly recommend this book to K-16 educators looking to integrate economics into core academic subjects through age-appropriate and relevant examples intending to promote economic ways of thinking among students.
Lessons Learned from the Development of an Affordable Open-Source Based Humanoid Socially Assistive Robot

Affordable elderly care has become a motivator for the development of low-cost and efficient healthcare related technologies. Among those technologies, multiple Socially Assistive Robotics (SAR) devices have been implemented as a possible solution on elderly care tasks. More robotic applications have also been implemented in order to monitoring human vitals and motion for those in need. A team of undergraduate students developed a SAR with the express intent to assist those in need of personal care. The Personal Assistance Humanoid Robot (PAR) combined not only the socially assistive capabilities of a SAR, but it also seeks to expand its capabilities into assisting with vitals and motion monitoring. The development of the PAR was crafted from functional open-source technologies. The student team was able to emulate and enhance existing platforms in a cost effective and simplified way, using fundamental academic and hands-on engineering principles. This document describes the process towards the development of an initial prototype PAR platform. It also documents structural and subsystem integration difficulties encountered through the assembly and implementation process. The scope of the prototype included the robot upper body with dynamic limbs, object recognition, object tracking, human gesture emulation, color and depth perception, auditory sensing, and pre-programmed verbal responses for social interaction.
Health Benefits of Spirituality

The past several decades have produced a surge of research on the physical and mental health benefits of religiousness and spirituality. This chapter summarizes the results of the research studies and focuses on clinicians’ integration of religiousness and spirituality into practice with patients. The chapter begins with defining religiousness and spirituality, as these definitions have been varied across studies. Next, the evidence for physical and mental health benefits will be summarized. Particular attention will be given to the most common chronic illnesses. Further, theoretical explanations for these relationships will be presented. The majority of the chapter will provide examples of religiousness and spirituality and offer guidelines for clinicians. Also, challenges that may come from the clinician’s own beliefs will be described and the importance of cultural competency will be included. While much of the research highlights positive relationships between health and spirituality, this chapter will also bring awareness to the negative relationships that have been identified. Lastly, barriers to integrating religiousness and spirituality will be addressed.
On the Performance of Direct Shaping Codes.

In this work, we study a recently proposed direct shaping code for flash memory. This rate-1 code is designed to reduce the wear for SLC (one bit per cell) flash by minimizing the average fraction of programmed cells when storing structured data. Then we describe an adaptation of this algorithm that provides data shaping for MLC (two bits per cell) flash memory. It makes use of a page-dependent cost model and is designed to be compatible with the standard procedure of row-by-row, page-based, wordline programming. We also give experimental results demonstrating the performance of MLC data shaping codes when applied to English and Chinese language text. We then study the potential error propagation properties of direct shaping codes when used in a noisy flash device. In particular, we model the error propagation as a biased random walk in a multidimensional space. We prove an upper bound on the error propagation probability and propose an algorithm that can numerically approach a lower bound. Finally, we study the asymptotic performance of direct shaping codes. We prove that the SLC direct shaping code is suboptimal in the sense that it can only achieve the minimum average cost for a rate-1 code under certain conditions on the source distribution.
A Relationship-Centered and Culturally Informed Approach to Studying Misinformation on COVID-19

The panic and anxiety that accompanies a global pandemic is only exacerbated by the spread of misinformation. For COVID-19, in many parts of the world, such misinformation is circulating through gl...
Overview: recent development and applications of reduction and lackadaisicalness techniques for spatial search quantum walk in the near term

The adjacency matrices of graphs provide the foundation for constructing the Hamiltonians of Continuous-Time Quantum Walks (CTQWs). Various classes of graphs have been identified to be highly reducible and the reduced Hamiltonian preserves the dynamics of the original system. This makes the CTQW implementation feasible in the near term for search problems of large size. Highly reducible Hamiltonians are desirable because existing quantum devices are of limited size in terms of the number of qubits. In this work, we review the recent developments of dimensionality reduction and coupling factor value finding techniques. The CTQWs based on a reduced Hamiltonian can search optimally when the correctly calculated coupling factor is used. We list identified highly reducible graphs and include their optimality proofs when correct coupling factors are used. In addition, we discuss the recent developments on Lackadaisical Quantum Walkers (LQW) (a type of coin-based discrete-time quantum walk) for one- and two-dimensional spatial search. The optimal lower upper bound remains open in one- and two-dimensional Discrete-Time Quantum Walk.
The Hoover Library Collection at Its Centenary: History, Themes, Access, and Challenges

For more than eighty years, the collection of the Hoover Institution Library grew as part of an ambitious endeavor to preserve literature, materials, and fugitive documents on wars, revolutions, an...
Loss of muscle mass during cancer therapy is associated with poor oncologic outcomes in epithelial ovarian cancer

Objectives: Sarcopenia, a loss of muscle mass and function, is a risk factor for decreased survival in advanced epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). Little is known about the effect of primary treatment for EOC on sarcopenia and how this relates to patient outcomes. Our aim was to determine the change in sarcopenia measures over the course of primary EOC treatment and if changes are associated with overall survival. Methods: We utilized an institutional EOC surgical database to identify patients diagnosed with stage IIIC or IV EOC who received primary debulking surgery (PDS) and adjuvant chemotherapy at our institution. Patients were included if they had pre and post-treatment computerized tomography (CT) scans available. Patient CT scans were analyzed for body composition, including skeletal muscle area and skeletal muscle index (SMI, skeletal muscle area normalized for patient height). Sarcopenia was defined as a SMI Results: We identified 116 patients who underwent PDS followed by adjuvant chemotherapy from 2006-2016 at a large volume single institution. Most patients (73%) had 6 cycles of adjuvant platinum-based chemotherapy. A post-treatment CT scan was obtained at a median of 25 days following the last day of treatment. Overall, there was a decrease in the mean skeletal muscle area and skeletal muscle index, with a percent change of 2.6% from pre- to post-treatment CT scans. Almost half of patients (54/116; 47%) were sarcopenic at some point during their treatment. Of the 116 patients, 62 (53%) were never sarcopenic, 5 (4%) were initially sarcopenic but not at the time of post-treatment scan, 28 (24%) were sarcopenic on both CT scans, and 21 (18%) were only sarcopenic at the time of post-treatment CT scan.The 21 patients who became sarcopenic during the course of treatment were more likely to have an American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status score more than 2 (62% vs 43%), preoperative albumin Conclusions: We observed that sarcopenia changes during the course of treatment among EOC patients who underwent curative intent PDS and adjuvant chemotherapy. Patients who develop sarcopenia following treatment appear to be at increased risk for poor oncologic outcomes. The cause of sarcopenia in EOC is unclear, and may reflect worse tumor biology or other patient specific factors.
Pluralism, Eliminativism, and the Definition of Art

Traditional monist theories of art fail to account for the diversity of objects that intuitively strike many as belonging to the category art. Some today argue that the solution to this problem requires the adoption of some version of pluralism to account for the diversity of art. We examine one recent attempt, which holds that the correct account of art must recognize the plurality of concepts of art. However, we criticize this account of concept pluralism as being unable to offer an explanation of why some concept is an art concept. Instead, many of the disagreements over the definition of art could be reconciled by recognizing that works of art can be valued in a plurality of ways. By recognizing a plurality of values for art, we claim further that the definition of art becomes a non-issue.
Development of laminated planks from southern pine lumber

To improve the performance and utilization of low grade pine lumber, southern pine (SP) laminated planks (184 mm × 320 mm × 4.29 m) were fabricated and evaluated for construction mats application. The laminated planks were made from No. 3 grade SP lumber and face-laminated with waterproof polyurethane adhesive. Modulus of rupture (MOR, 33.1 MPa), characteristic design value of fiber bending stress (Fb, 12.6 MPa), and modulus of elasticity (MOE, 7040 MPa) were obtained from four-point static bending tests. The comparison results demonstrated that the product of this research has applicability as a member stock for construction mats application.
Book Review: Seeking the Church: An Introduction to Ecclesiology

Seeking the Church: An Introduction to Ecclesiology. By Stephen Pickard. London: SCM Press, 2012. vii + 255 pp. $45.00 (paper).In Seeking the Church Stephen Pickard not only describes the nature of the church for our time; he maps a pathway for its recovery. A bishop in the Anglican Province of Australia and former head of its leading school of theology, Pickard is uniquely qualified both to review the field of ecclesiology and to offer a helpful contribution for its flourishing.Pickard leads with his hope to restore the church's vitality and original identity as ecclesia, literally "the called-out ones." Insofar as we live as the "pilgrim people of God" (p. 79), always moving toward the kingdom, always moving into deeper relationship with others, with creation, and with the Triune God, we are truly the church. Thankfully, the attraction to God and to each other-what Pickard calls "the desire for human companionship"-is part of our DNA as those made imago Dei (p. 1). Even if we become twisted and turned in on ourselves, the inexorable, magnetic power and beauty of God draws us to untwist and stretch upward and outward, like vines growing toward sunlight.Things fall apart, Pickard observes, when the church turns from that dynamic, relational path back to a "solid, steady-state" existence. From there, Christian community becomes a rigid and brittle thing, and "the mystical communion becomes a closed therapeutic community," marked by ecclesiocentrism, preoccupied with its own internal life (p. 42). That is a shame, Pickard insists with echoes of William Temple, because "the doctrine of the Church ought to have an osmotic and dynamic feel about it, always orientated beyond its own Ufe" (p. 30).This is not to say that church order is unimportant; Pickard is, after all, speaking as a professor and bishop. He assumes the doctrine of the church must be grounded in the life of the actual church, not in some theoretical, Platonic ideal. However, he knows the havoc wreaked when the church either makes its internal life into a golden idol and its leaders into analogues to Christ or, forgetting its dependence on God, elevates human power and spins out in anxious overfunctioning. Either way, the church loses its tether to God and to creation, and ultimately risks losing its own life.What is the solution? Pickard suggests a "humbler and more open ecclesiology" that presents the church "as a sign and anticipation of the coming kingdom." As a sign, it is truly a creature of Christ and the Spirit, and it makes available a unique and concentrated experience of the holy, what Pickard calls "intensity. …
Differentiation of hand posture to object shape in children with unilateral spastic cerebral palsy.

Abstract Quantifying hand-shaping in children with unilateral spastic cerebral palsy (USCP) is the first step in understanding hand posture differentiation. To quantify this ability and determine how hand posture evolves during reach toward various object shapes in children with unilateral spastic cerebral palsy (USCP), 2 groups of children (10 typically developing, and 10 USCP, ages 6–13) were studied in a single-session cross-sectional study. Subjects grasped rectangular, concave, and convex objects with each hand. Metacarpal and proximal interphalangeal joint finger flexion and finger abduction angles were calculated. The extent to which hand posture reflects object shape was calculated using a “visuomotor efficiency (VME) index” (a score of 100 reflects perfect discrimination between objects). A mixed design ANOVA with repeated measures on time was used to compare the VME between groups. Children with USCP demonstrated a lower VME than controls in the affected hand, indicating less effective hand-shaping; p
Genetic Algorithms and Neural Networks

The integration of genetic algorithms with neural networks is a rapidly expanding area building on the explosion of interest in the two technologies individually. In the early 1990’s, the revolution in the research and application of neural networks was followed by a surge in activity for genetic algorithms. By 1994, several conferences and publications had been dedicated to genetic algorithms where they had formerly been an adjunct of neural network or expert systems forums.
Perpetual Contact: Mobile Communication, Private Talk, Public Performance

From the Publisher: Mobile phones affect every aspect of our personal and professional lives. They have transformed social practices and changed the way we do business, yet surprisingly little serious academic work has been done on them. This book studies the impact of the mobile phone on contemporary society from a social scientific perspective. Providing a comprehensive overview of mobile phones and social interaction, it comprises an introduction covering the key issues, a series of unique national studies and a final section examining specific issues.
Comparison of ductal stenting versus surgical shunts for palliation of patients with pulmonary atresia and intact ventricular septum

Objectives We sought to compare ductal stenting (DS) to systemic-pulmonary artery shunt (SPS) in a contemporary cohort of patients having pulmonary atresia with intact ventricular septum (PAIVS). Background Alternative palliative strategies (interventional versus surgical) are currently available for initial palliation of ductal dependent patients with various forms of congenital heart disease. There is little data available to guide strategy selection. Methods A retrospective review of patients with PAIVS at our institution from Jan 2006 to Dec 2013 was performed. Demographic, echocardiographic, procedural, and follow-up data were reviewed and analyzed. Results Twenty-nine patients were identified. Thirteen underwent DS and 16 underwent SPS. In the DS group, 6 had radiofrequency perforation of the pulmonary valve, and 12 underwent balloon pulmonary valvuloplasty (BPV) prior to DS. SPS was performed after perforation of the pulmonary valve in 1 patient and after BPV in 4 patients. Procedural success was 92.8% in the DS group versus 93.3% in the SPS group. In the DS group, one patient required emergency shunting due to intra-procedural ductal spasm. In the SPS group there was one procedure related death, and there were six significant procedure-related complications. Five patients required re-interventions prior to hospital discharge. The median length of hospital stay for the DS versus SPS group was 10 versus 23 days, respectively (P < 0.05). Post discharge, there were seven reinterventions in the DS group and two reinterventions in the SPS group. Conclusions DS may provide a safe and effective alternative to SPS in selected patients with PAIVS. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.