cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Early Childhood Education in Japan and the United States: A Comparison of Regular Education (Kindergarten and Daycare Programs) and Special Education Programs∗

The researcher spent two months in Japan in 1994 to conduct the study. The purpose of the study was (1) to observe, videotape and describe the types of programs involved in early childhood education in Japan; kindergartens, daycare centers and special education programs for children ages 0‐6, (2) to interview teachers and parents involved in early childhood programs both regular education and special education regarding curriculum and parent involvement in Japan, (3) to interview professors, principals regarding early childhood education regular and special in terms of curriculum, parent involvement and teacher training. ∗This research was funded in part by the Committee on Organized Research and a sabbatical grant from Northeastern Illinois University.
Self-sorting in a swarm of heterogeneous agents

Sorting of heterogeneous units is a self-organized behavior which is seen in many biological systems. One of the best examples of such systems is a system of biological cells of heterogeneous types that has the ability to self-organize into specific formations, form different types of organs and, ultimately, develop into a living organism. Earlier research in this area has indicated that such self-sorting behaviors in biological cells and tissues are made possible because of difference in the adhesivity between different types of cells or tissues. Inspired by this differential adhesivity model, this paper presents a decentralized approach based on differential artificial potential to achieve the self sorting behavior in a swarm of heterogeneous robotic agents. The method is based on the proposition that agents of different types experience different magnitude of potential while they are interacting with agents of different types. An analysis of the system with the proposed approach in Lyapunov sense is carried out for stability. Extensive simulation studies and numerical analysis suggest that the proposed method would always lead a population of heterogeneous agents closer to the sorted or segregated configuration.
Active Classification based on Value of Classifier

Modern classification tasks usually involve many class labels and can be informed by a broad range of features. Many of these tasks are tackled by constructing a set of classifiers, which are then applied at test time and then pieced together in a fixed procedure determined in advance or at training time. We present an active classification process at the test time, where each classifier in a large ensemble is viewed as a potential observation that might inform our classification process. Observations are then selected dynamically based on previous observations, using a value-theoretic computation that balances an estimate of the expected classification gain from each observation as well as its computational cost. The expected classification gain is computed using a probabilistic model that uses the outcome from previous observations. This active classification process is applied at test time for each individual test instance, resulting in an efficient instance-specific decision path. We demonstrate the benefit of the active scheme on various real-world datasets, and show that it can achieve comparable or even higher classification accuracy at a fraction of the computational costs of traditional methods.
Motivating operatives for suicide missions and conventional terrorist attacks

We investigate the problem of motivating terrorist operatives for suicide missions and conventional terrorist attacks when operatives have either self-interested or social preferences that are not observable by the terrorist organization. We characterize the screening mechanism for selecting operatives according to their social preferences and determine under what conditions a terrorist group will prefer to utilize suicide versus conventional tactics. For example, when operatives are intrinsically motivated and likely to be represented in the pool of potential recruits, a terrorist organization will be more likely to employ suicide attacks as its sole tactic of choice.
The war next door: Peace journalism in US local and distant newspapers’ coverage of Mexico:

This study explores the relationship between proximity to a conflict and the tendency to use peace journalism rather than war journalism modes of reporting. In the context of the current drug war o...
Effects of total-body digital photography on cancer worry in patients with atypical mole syndrome.

Importance Cancer worry about developing melanoma in at-risk patients may affect one’s quality of life and adherence to screening. Little is known about melanoma-related worry in patients with atypical mole syndrome (AMS). Objectives To quantify levels and elucidate predictors of worry related to developing melanoma in patients with AMS and to determine whether total-body digital photography (TBDP) in pigmented lesion clinics (PLCs) reduces worry. Design, Setting, and Participants In this pretest-posttest study, patients with AMS from PLCs at 2 academic medical centers were recruited from June 1, 2005, through October 31, 2008, to answer questions about cancer worry before and after undergoing TBDP. Questionnaires used included the new melanoma and recurrent melanoma Revised Impact of Event Scale (RIES), the Melanoma Worry Scale (MWS), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and the Life Orientation Test. Interventions All patients underwent TBDP. Main Outcomes and Measures Changes in the MWS and new melanoma RIES scores. Results A total of 138 patients completed baseline questionnaires; 108 patients (78.3%) completed questionnaires after TBDP. Baseline levels of worry were low and reduced further after TBDP. In patients with a personal history of melanoma, worry was reduced on all scales. In patients without a personal history of melanoma, only the new melanoma RIES score was significantly decreased. Predictors of baseline MWS scores include female sex, personal history of melanoma, and higher Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale scores, adjusted for demographics, family history of melanoma, and Life Orientation Test scores. Adjusted predictors of the baseline new melanoma RIES score were similar but also included lower educational level and did not include sex. Conclusions and Relevance Patients with AMS have low levels of melanoma-related worry, which is similar to data from other populations at high risk of cancers. We found that TBDP is a clinically useful tool that can be used in PLCs to help decrease worry about developing melanoma in at-risk patients.
The role of 5a-reduction in steroid hormone physiology

A role for 5α-reduction in androgen physiology was first established with the recognition that dihydrotestosterone, the 5α-reduced metabolite of testosterone, is formed in many androgen target tissues, binds to the androgen receptor with greater affinity than testosterone, and plays an essential role in virilization of the urogenital sinus and urogenital tubercle during male development. Two 5α-reductases perform this reaction, and both isoenzymes utilize NADPH as cofactor and have broad specificity for steroids containing a Δ4, 3-keto configuration. 5α-Reduction, which is essentially irreversible, flattens the steroid molecule because of altered relation of the A and B rings, and stabilizes the hormone–receptor complex. Studies involving in vitro reporter gene assays and intact mice in which both isoenzymes are disrupted, indicate that the fundamental effect of dihydrotestosterone formation is to amplify hormonal signals that can be mediated by testosterone at higher concentrations. 5α-Reduction also plays a role in the action of other steroid hormones, including the plant growth hormone, brassinolide, the boar pheromones, androstanol and androstenol, progesterone (in some species), and, possibly, aldosterone and cortisol. The fact that the reaction is important in plants and animals implies a fundamental role in steroid hormone action.
Grassroots Professional Development: How Teachers Use Twitter

In an exploratory study, we used survey, interviews and content analysis techniques to understand how educators appropriate Twitter and other social media in their practice. We report on teachers' use of Twitter, structural features of their on and offline professional networks, and the institutional policies that shape their appropriation of social media for professional use. Most importantly, our analysis suggests teachers on Twitter tend to be eager adopters of technologies and well positioned to broker information as bridges between members of their local communities of practice and other networks of educators. Based on these findings, we discuss teachers on Twitter as participants in grassroots professional development efforts and the potential for them to be powerful fomenters and enactors of reform in educational communities. Introduction: Social Media in Teachers' Professional Lives The role of social media in organizing social reform efforts has become an enticing area of inquiry. In 2011, revolutions in the Middle East, rioting and civil disobedience in London, and the Occupy Wall Street movement all inspired researchers, policy makers, and citizens to scrutinize how social media can support and suppress collective action. These dramatic events compel us to critically examine the role of technologies in social systems, but upheaval is not the only context in which social media play a role in enabling people to spread ideas, find like-minded peers, and mobilize for social change. It makes sense to examine how social media are used in relatively stable social systems by people who see everyday opportunities to effect positive change: for example, teachers. In an exploratory study, we used survey, interviews and content analysis techniques to understand how teachers are using Twitter in their practice. We wanted to understand how everyday technologies might become "educational technologies" in the hands of innovative teachers. Interviews, surveys and content analysis of tweets suggested that, as a professional development tool, Twitter is a forum for teachers to not only talk about their classroom practice and share practical information and news, but also to find like-minded educators and give voice to their ideological commitments. Teachers we spoke to described themselves as early adopters and technology evangelists who used Twitter as a way of importing new ideas into their local communities of practice from distant peers. We argue that this "bridging" activity not only helps teachers generate social capital that can help them succeed in their careers, but that it is the kind of social substrate that is necessary for education reform efforts to take root as like-minded individuals strengthen one another's ability to effect change. Social scientists have observed that collective action is reliant on people's ability to generate support networks that help them accomplish common goals (Granovetter 1973; Putnam 2000). Our findings suggest that teachers on Twitter are doing just that.
Relations Between Attenuation and Phase in Feedback Amplifier Design

This chapter contains sections titled: References Introduction Relations Between Attenuation and Phase in Physical Networks Overall Feedback Loop Characteristics Maximum Obtainable Feedback Relative Importance of Tubes and Circuit in Limiting Feedback Amplifiers of Other Types Example
APPLICATION OF A SURFACE-RENEWAL MODEL TO PERMEATE-FLUX DATA FOR CONSTANTPRESSURE CROSS-FLOW MICROFILTRATION WITH DEAN VORTICES

Abstract - The introduction of flow instabilities into a microfiltration process can dramatically change several elements such as the surface-renewal rate, permeate flux, specific cake resistance, and cake buildup on the membrane in a positive way. A recently developed surface-renewal model for constant-pressure, cross-flow microfiltration (Hasan et al ., 2013) is applied to the permeate-flux data reported by Mallubhotla and Belfort (1997), one set of which included flow instabilities (Dean vortices) while the other set did not. The surface-renewal model has two forms ─ the complete model and an approximate model. For the complete model, the introduction of vortices leads to a 53% increase in the surface- renewal rate, which increases the limiting (i.e., steady-state) permeate flux by 30%, decreases the specific cake resistance by 14.5% and decreases the limiting cake mass by 15.5% compared to operation without vortices. For the approximate model, a 50% increase in the value of surface renewal rate is shown due to vortices, which increases the limiting permeate flux by 30%, decreases the specific cake resistance by 10.5% and decreases the limiting cake mass by 13.7%. The cake-filtration version of the critical-flux model of microfiltration (Field
School Psychologists and the Assessment of Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Students

In recent years, school psychologists have increasingly recognized the importance of using valid and reliable methods to assess culturally and linguistically diverse (CLD) students for special education eligibility. However, little is known about their assessment practices or preparation in this area. To address these questions, a Web-based survey was developed and sent to practicing school psychologists. This article presents the survey results (n = 140) and implications for the effective assessment of CLD children and adolescents. Participants reported conducting comprehensive assessments to determine eligibility for special education among CLD students. Over half of the respondents reported using interpreters to assist with assessment; however, only a small percentage felt their interpreters were “well” or “very well” trained. The majority of the participants reportedly received training on assessing CLD students at the graduate school level; a practice that holds promise for the increased preparation of future practitioners. The results also highlight a continued need for training in selecting appropriate assessment instruments. Recommendations for graduate trainers and practicing school psychologists are provided.
Characterization of density fluctuations during the search for an I-mode regime on the DIII-D tokamak

United States. Department of Energy. Office of Fusion Energy Sciences (Award DE-FG02- 94ER54235)
A Learning Outcomes Index of Achievement in Academic Internships

Undergraduate students in economics can attain multiple learning outcomes by completing an internship course as part of their major department's curriculum. The LOT Index is a measure that utilizes primary trait analysis to assess student interns' attainment of seventeen learning outcomes, as delineated in a national survey of representatives from both the academic community and corporate arena (Bikson and Law 1994). Learning outcomes tracked in the analysis include computer skills, research skills, ten cognitive-social-personal skills, and the successful application of classroom-acquired knowledge of concepts in the economics major. Assessment results indicate that economics majors attain half, on average, of the potential learning outcomes during the internship course, and a consistently strong result is that the majority of students enhance their knowledge of economics by applying coursework in real world career settings. Also, almost all students increase their computer skills, and half develop research skills. Improvement in verbal communication and presentation skills is one of the most frequently occurring learning outcomes, while writing skills and cross-cultural skills are identified as outcomes that students need to be encouraged to develop more. The observation has been made that disagreement may occur between faculty members and economics students regarding the usefulness and desirability of learning outcomes measures (McCoy et al. 1994). Advisors routinely encounter students who value employment-enhancing outcomes, while professors tend to value those outcomes tied to existing curricula. However, identifying and assessing multiple learning outcomes valued by an academic department can effectively reconcile this discrepancy.
Analysis of fast-ion D α data from the National Spherical Torus Experiment

Measured fast-ion (FIDA) data from an extensive NSTX database are compared to 'classical' predictions that neglect transport by instabilities. Even in the absence of appreciable MHD, in many cases, the profile peaks at smaller major radius and the profile is broader than the predictions. Abrupt large-amplitude MHD events flatten the FIDA profile, as do most toroidal Alfven eigenmode (TAE) avalanche events. Generally, the onset of a long-lived mode also flattens the FIDA profile.
Association between Bemisia tabaci density and reduced growth, yellowing, and stem blanching of lettuce and kai choy

Colonization by high densities of sweetpotato whitefly, Bemisia tabaci, B-biotype, reduced growth of lettuce (Lactuca sativa) and kai choy (Brassica campestris). A 41% reduction in the weight of lettuce plants resulted when they were colonized by 200 adult whiteflies and their offspring for 3 wk. The weight of kai choy plants was reduced 14 and 21% when they were colonized by 100 and 200 adult whiteflies and their offspring, respectively, for 3 wk. In contrast, colonization by 10, 50, and 100 whiteflies and their nymphs per lettuce plant, or 10 and 50 whiteflies plus their nymphs per kai choy plant, did not reduce growth significantly
Efficacy of Cork Granulates as a Top Coat Substrate Component for Seed Germination as Compared to Vermiculite

A top coat is a lightweight substrate component used in seed germination. The seeds are typically placed on a substrate such as peat and then the seeds are covered with a layer of the top coating substrate. The top coat serves to maintain adequate moisture around the seeds and to exclude light. Vermiculite and cork granulates (1 mm) were used as top coat substrates for seed germination to determine if cork granulates could be successfully used as an alternative to vermiculite. The cork granulates had a bulk density of 0.16 g cm, which was higher than that of vermiculite that had a bulk density of 0.12 g cm. Cork granulates had an air-filled pore space of 22.7% (v/v), which was higher than vermiculite which was 13.2%. The water-holding capacity of vermiculite was 63.4% (v/v), which was higher than that of cork granulates that was 35.1%. Seeds of ‘Rutgers Select’ tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), ‘Dazzler Lilac Splash’ impatiens (Impatiens walleriana), ‘Orbital Cardinal Red’ geranium (Pelargonium ·hortorum), ‘Better Belle’ pepper (Capsicum annuum), and ‘Cooler Grape’ vinca (Catharanthus roseus) were placed on top of peat and covered with a 4-mm top coating of either vermiculite or cork granulates. For tomato, impatiens, and vinca, days to germination were similar between seeds germinated using vermiculite and granulated cork as a top coat. Days to germination of geranium and pepper were significantly different with geranium and pepper seeds coated with cork granulates germinating 0.7 and 1.5 days earlier than those coated with vermiculite. For tomato, impatiens, and geranium, the number of seeds germinating per plug tray was similar between the top coats. Number of seeds germinating per tray for pepper and vinca were significantly different. Pepper had an average of 2.8 more seeds germinating per tray, and vinca had an average of 2.4 more seeds germinating per tray if seeds were germinated using granulated cork vs. vermiculite. For all species, dry shoot and dry root weights were similar for seedlings germinated using cork and vermiculite top coats.
Placing second: Empathic unsettlement as a vehicle of consubstantiality at the Silent Gesture statue of Tommie Smith and John Carlos:

In this article, I explore the material rhetorics of place from the perspective of transferential space. Specifically, I examine the Silent Gesture statue of Tommie Smith and John Carlos at San Jose State University. Drawing on Alison Landsberg’s concept of transferential space and Dominick LaCapra’s concept of empathic unsettlement, I argue that the statue explores the limits of identification in such a way that illuminates new possibilities for the rhetoricity of transferential space. Specifically, I argue that the statue’s invitation to physically and metaphorically ‘Take a Stand’ with Smith and Carlos facilitates noteworthy tensions of civic identity and, in turn, fosters mnemonic practices of consubstantiality with the disenfranchised for its visitors.
Lipophilic Cationic Cyanines Are Potent Complex I Inhibitors and Specific in Vitro Dopaminergic Toxins with Mechanistic Similarities to Both Rotenone and MPP(.).

We have recently reported that simple lipophilic cationic cyanines are specific and potent dopaminergic toxins with a mechanism of toxicity similar to that of the Parkinsonian toxin MPP+. In the present study, a group of fluorescent lipophilic cyanines have been used to further exploit the structure–activity relationship of the specific dopaminergic toxicity of cyanines. Here, we report that all cyanines tested were highly toxic to dopaminergic MN9D cells with IC50s in the range of 60–100 nM and not toxic to non-neuronal HepG2 cells parallel to that previously reported for 2,2′- and 4,4′-cyanines. All cyanines nonspecifically accumulate in the mitochondria of both MN9D and HepG2 cells at high concentrations, inhibit the mitochondrial complex I with the inhibition potencies similar to the potent complex I inhibitor, rotenone. They increase the reactive oxygen species (ROS) production specifically in dopaminergic cells causing apoptotic cell death. These and other findings suggest that the complex I inhibit...
“Arthur Schnitzler und ich”: Das Vermächtnis der Clara Katharina Pollaczek

(1966). “Arthur Schnitzler und ich”: Das Vermachtnis der Clara Katharina Pollaczek. The Germanic Review: Literature, Culture, Theory: Vol. 41, No. 2, pp. 120-135.
Chirp-free direct modulation of 550nm emission in Er3+-Doped Fluoroindate glass by nonlinear feedback control

Abstract We propose a direct modulation method with nonlinear feedback controller which can produce chirp-free modulation of the output pulse without bulky external modulators. This work reports the design of the controller which, via a feedback loop, varies and controls the pump rate in real time by automatically adjusting the pump power to precisely modulate the emission of 550 n m in E r 3 + -doped Fluoroindate glass under 1.48 μ m pumping. In this interdisciplinary paper, well established theoretical tools from nonlinear control theory are applied to the dynamical system of the laser material in order to produce the desired output of the laser. The controller is simulated in MATLAB Simulink and the simulation results show that our technique yields precise modulation of the output intensity without frequency chirping. Results on both theoretical analysis of the control methodology and simulation are presented.
Trilobites from the Redwall Limestone (Mississippian) of Arizona

ABSTRACT Trilobites from the Lower Mississippian (late Tournaisian) Redwall Limestone of Arizona are rare. Four identifiable specimens were recovered and studied. These specimens, in conjunction with recorded stratigraphic distributions of lost Redwall trilobites, allows for the assemblage of a range chart. Identifiable trilobite species include: Aprathia sp., Phillipsia peroccidens (Hall and Whitfield, 1877), Cummingella? sp., and Cummingella sp. The Redwall trilobites in this small collection exhibit a much closer taxonomic affinity to the late Tournaisian forms known from Europe than they do to species from strata of similar age in the eastern, central, and southern United States. This suggests that during the late Tournaisian the inferred geographic barrier known as the Transcontinental Arch prominently separated the Redwall depositional location from that of the central and eastern United States. This barrier appears to have contributed to the endemism of trilobites of the eastern United States.
Older Adult Falls: Effective Approaches to Prevention.

Purpose The issue of older adult falls combines a problem with high incidence and high injury susceptibility with an increasing population at risk. A firm understanding of both fall risk factors and effective strategies is required to reduce risk and prevent these injuries.
Subjective social status, life course SES, and BMI in young adulthood.

OBJECTIVE Socioeconomic status (SES) is associated with many aspects of health and well-being, including body mass index (BMI). Most research in this area has focused on objective indicators of SES such as education and income, but recent work suggests that subjective social status (SSS) is also important. This study contributes to a growing body of research on SSS and BMI. METHOD Data from Waves I and IV the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (Add Health), a study of 14,780 individuals followed from adolescence to young adulthood, were analyzed. RESULTS Analyses showed that (a) SSS was inversely associated with BMI among young adults, (b) objective SES in both adulthood and early life explained about half of this relationship, (c) SSS appeared to offer a partial explanation for the association between SES (in both adulthood and early life) and BMI, (d) health behaviors, psychological characteristics, self-rated health, and perceived stress explained part of the relationship between SSS and BMI after controlling for SES and other covariates, and (e) SSS had a residual association with BMI that was not accounted for by any of the variables in the full model. CONCLUSIONS This work shows that SSS is important because it (a) has an independent association with BMI net of SES, which suggests that it captures unique aspects of social and economic conditions missed by objective indicators of SES and (b) may help link SES with BMI through perceptions of one's place in the status hierarchy of society. (PsycINFO Database Record
Multiparticulate Technologies for Fixed-Dose Combinations

Multiparticulates (MPs) offer a high degree of capability and flexibility for attaining pharmacokinetic (PK), pharmacodynamic (PD), or target product profile goals. Reasons to use MPs in fixed-dose combinations (FDCs) include the ability to (1) mix and match release profiles for enhanced PK or PD effects; (2) isolate chemically incompatible active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs); (3) lower costs or simplify handling and distribution of the FDC relative to two or more separate materials; and (4) maximize commercial opportunities by serving new indications or capturing market exclusivity through improved efficacy and compliance. The primary goals of this chapter are to (1) review the state of the art for MP usage in FDCs and (2) use case studies or hypothetical combinations to describe formulation efficacy improvements enabled through MP usage in FDCs.
Are complex game models empirically relevant

This essay on the empirical relevance of game theoretic models in International Relations is developed in three parts. First it reviews Allan and Dupont’s arguments for a tradeoff between model complexity and empirical robustness. Second, it re-conceptualizes model complexity and shifts the discussion of a tradeoff between between empirics and model complexity by considering the empirical relevance rather than the empirical robustness of a model. Finally it assesses the link between empirical relevance and complexity with reference to models in the crisis bargaining and the war and bargaining literatures.
A gênese e o desenvolvimento da empatia: fatores formativos implicados

Este artigo tem por objetivo apresentar resultados parciais de uma pesquisa de natureza qualitativa, em andamento, sobre a genese da empatia e sobre o modo como ocorre o seu desenvolvimento na infância. A metodologia utilizada compoe-se de revisao bibliografica e analise hermeneutica. Os dados da pesquisa permitiram compreender a empatia como a capacidade natural que um individuo tem de ser tocado pelo estado emocional alheio. Ademais, do estudo emergiram outros tres aspectos referentes a empatia. O primeiro, oriundo de uma aproximacao historico-conceitual, permite entender a empatia como uma competencia ja conhecida, primariamente denominada ‘simpatia’, e relacionada a experiencia estetica do ser humano. O segundo relaciona a genese da empatia a duas vertentes: uma vinculada aos estudos com criancas, que detectou a presenca da empatia em bebes, e outra que compreende a empatia em um contexto evolucionista, como uma caracteristica compartilhada com outros animais mamiferos. O terceiro aspecto aponta a possibilidade de formar a empatia e outros elementos da moralidade humana desde o nascimento. Dado que a empatia consiste em uma competencia fundamental a convivencia humana, presente desde o nascimento, e preciso e possivel promove-la pela via da formacao familiar e escolar.
Understanding the Essence of Successful Computing Education Projects through Analyzing NSF Proposals: (Abstract Only)

You develop the prototype for a new learning strategy, and want to test it in class or across institutions. You identify an NSF program that supports proposals for the idea, and then what? What goes through the minds of reviewers once a proposal is submitted? What prompts one proposal to be recommended for funding while another is declined? Close examination of the panel review process can inform proposal writing and ensure that reviewers will understand a PI's idea, identify its merit, and value a PI's vision of how the work will broaden participation in STEM education. This workshop steps through the NSF proposal review process from submission of proposal to award or decline, touching on elements of a good review, NSF intellectual merit and broader impact criteria, elements of a good proposal, assessment and evaluation, and volunteering to review proposals. Participants gain insight into writing a good review and improving one's own proposal writing. The interactive workshop leads participants through each topic by introducing related issues, engaging participants in group exercises designed to explore and share their understanding of the issues, and providing "expert" opinion on these issues. Examples include funded and non-funded projects and a Top Ten List of Do's and Don'ts. For further information see: https://people.cs.clemson.edu/~etkraem/UPCSEd/
Mer Receptor Tyrosine Kinase: Therapeutic Opportunities in Oncology, Virology, and Cardiovascular Indications

Abstract Mer is a member of the TAM (Tyro3, Axl, and Mer) receptor tyrosine kinase subfamily with growth arrest specific-6 as one of its endogenous ligands. Elevated Mer activation has been strongly associated with poor prognosis and enhanced survival signaling in many human cancers. The normal biological role of Mer in regulating ingestion of apoptotic material by macrophages and epithelial cells, and the latter stages of platelet aggregation, presents therapeutic opportunities beyond oncology for a Mer-directed tyrosine kinase inhibitor. The activity of highly potent small molecule Mer inhibitors in: (1) animal models of Mer driven tumors, (2) tumors lacking Mer but sensitive to a Mer antagonist's immune stimulatory effects, (3) acute models of coagulation, and (4) enveloped virus infections will be reviewed and discussed.
Blunt thoracic aortic injury.

Blunt thoracic aortic injury (BAI) is a rare but often fatal injury that occurs with severe polytrauma. Immediate diagnosis and treatment of BAI are essential for a successful outcome. We reviewed our experience with 20 patients with BAI treated at a Level I trauma center between 1995 and 2006. The mean Injury Severity Score was 38 ± 14 and 14 patients had an abnormal Glasgow Coma Score; associated injuries included abdomen in 13 patients, extremity in 12, and head in six. Chest x-ray (CXR) findings were suggestive of aortic injury in 15 patients, equivocal in three, and showed no evidence of aortic injury in two. Diagnosis was made by CT angiography (CTA) in 17 patients, transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) in two, and formal angiography in one. Sixteen patients underwent operative repair of BAI. Of these, eight also underwent laparotomy, six had operative repair of extremity fractures, and three had pelvic embolization. Five patients died, three of whom were treated nonoperatively, and length of hospitalization in survivors was 32 ± 20 days. BAI is rare and often associated with multiple life-threatening injuries complicating diagnosis and treatment. Our data support the aggressive use of CTA even when classic CXR findings are not present. When CT must be delayed for abdominal exploration, intraoperative TEE is useful.
Cytochrome Oxidase Inhibition In Alzheimer’s Disease

There is a compelling need to understand neuronal oxidative metabolism in Alzheimer’s brains in order to unequivocally diagnose and treat Alzheimer’s disease patients successfully. This disease may be affecting one of every three families in the US. Although rare familial types of Alzheimer’s disease follow Mendelian genetics, most cases appear after age 65 and have no clearly identifiable nuclear genetic defects. It is in this majority of late-onset, sporadic cases that defects in cytochrome oxidase activity have been linked to mitochondrial DNA mutations. Recent mounting evidence suggests that a cytochrome oxidase catalytic defect with mitochondrial DNA oxidative damage is a reliable marker of sporadic Alzheimer’s disease. With advancing age, chronic inhibition of cytochrome oxidase activity produces neuronal metabolic failure and memory dysfunction. Cytochrome oxidase inhibition leads to senile dementia and neurodegeneration in late-onset Alzheimer’s disease in a cascade of multiple intracellular events, initiated primarily by neuronal aerobic energy depletion, mitochondrial formation of reactive oxygen species and disruption of intracellular calcium homeostasis. Quantitative cytochemical methods for assessing cytochrome oxidase activity in individual cells are described in detail. Cytochemical findings are discussed in relationship to the selective vulnerability of metabolically active larger projection neurons in Alzheimer’s brains. Additional results are presented that suggest that muscle biopsy may be used as an early diagnostic aid in living subjects suspected of sporadic Alzheimer’s disease. The data support the hypothesis that sporadic Alzheimer’s disease is a systemic mitochondrial disease, characterized by cytochrome oxidase inhibition. Early in sporadic Alzheimer’s disease the inhibition of neuronal cytochrome oxidase activity is caused by a systemic cytochrome oxidase defect. The brain is proposed to be the most vulnerable organ to show primary oxidative pathogenesis as a result of systemic cytochrome oxidase inhibition. Possible treatments for neuronal oxidative stress in Alzheimer’s disease are proposed.
Translational Sepsis Research: Spanning the Divide.

Objective Our knowledge of the molecular mechanisms of sepsis has attained exponential growth. Yet, the pillars of its care remain antibiotics, fluid resuscitation, and physiologic support of failing organ systems. The inability to bring biologic breakthroughs to the bedside is not for lack of effort. Over 60 clinical trials of novel therapies, each heavily supported by the momentum of biologic data suggesting clinical utility, have been conducted and have failed to identify benefit. This mass of "negative" clinical data abut an equally towering mound of knowledge of sepsis biology, which collectively have led investigators to ask, "what happened?" Data sources Review of published scientific literature via MEDLINE searches using key terms related to the article topics. Study selection Original articles, review articles, and systematic reviews were considered. Data extraction Articles were selected for inclusion based upon author consensus. Data synthesis Here, we present a synthetic review of some of the challenges in translating experimental animal models of sepsis to the bedside. We commence with the concept that the heterogeneity in the kinetics of the sepsis response serves as an important, often underappreciated but surmountable, source of translational impedance. Upon this groundwork, we discuss distinctions between animal experimentation and clinical trial design in the elements for hypothesis testing: cohort selection, power and sample size, randomization and blinding, and timing of intervention. From this concept, we develop a contextual framework for advancing the paradigm of animal-based investigations to facilitate science that transitions from molecule to medicine. Conclusions A persistent divide exists between the laboratory and clinical research arenas, which may be addressable via systematic targeting of identified translational gaps.
A robotic multiple-shape-memory ionic polymer–metal composite (IPMC) actuator: modeling approach

The multiple-shape-memory ionic polymer–metal composite (MSM-IPMC) actuator can demonstrate complex 3D deformation. The MSM-IPMC has two distinct characteristics, which are the electromechanical actuation effect and the thermal-mechanical shape memory effect. The bending, twisting, and oscillating motions of the actuator could be controlled simultaneously or separately by means of thermal-mechanical and electromechanical transduction. In this study, a theoretical model for the MSM-IPMC was developed and experimentally investigated. Based on previous studies on the electromechanical actuation effect of ionic polymer–metal composite (IPMC), a comprehensive physics-based model of MSM-IPMC which couples the actuation effect and the multiple shape memory effect was developed. To verify the model, an MSM-IPMC sample was prepared and used in experimental testing. The simulation results were shown to be in good agreement with the experimental results obtained. The multiple shape memory and recovery rate of three different polymers, namely the Nafion, Aquivion and GEFC of different ions, which are the hydrogen, lithium and sodium, were also tested. Based on the results, it is shown that all the polymers demonstrate the multiple shape memory effect with varying amounts of programmable shapes. The ion type was shown to have an influence on the broad glass transition range of the polymers, which in turn dictated the number of possible programmable shapes for each membrane. The current study is beneficial for the better understanding of the multiple shape memory effect of MSM-IPMC.
Real Time Operation of Smart Homes with PV and Battery Systems under Variable Electricity Rate Schedules and Transactive Power Flow

According to some utility schedules, the electricity rate is variable such that homes may be encouraged to buy and store power in a battery when it is inexpensive, and self-consume or sell to the grid during other times. Power arbitrage through a battery energy storage (BES), can help maintain consumer comfort and minimize residential electricity bills. This paper reports the calculated daily energy costs incurred by different types of homes for a given utility electricity rate schedule. The homes exchange power among each other behind a section of the distribution network. A free market system is formed and the electricity rate is a function of time, depending on the instantaneous supply and demand of power. A real time control for the BES based on its state of charge, residential power demand, and electricity rate is proposed. Relative savings in homes are achieved through rooftop solar photovoltaic systems, or BES, or both. It is shown that all types of houses benefit from the transactive power flow.
Symmetric Long-Reach 16-QAM Transmission using Lite Coherent Receiver for Next-Generation Optical Access Network

We propose and experimentally demonstrate a low-cost symmetric long-reach high-capacity access structure enabled by a lite coherent receiver. 50-Gb/s/λ 16-QAM transmission with 40.1-dB link-budget is achieved to surpass specifications in NG-PON2.
THE STEREOCHEMICAL COURSE OF SEVERAL ENZYME CATALYZED REACTIONS AT THE PHOSPHODIESTER LEVEL

Abstract A methodology is outlined for examining the stereochemical course at phosphorus of enzyme catalyzed reactions at the phosphodiester level utilizing phosphorothioates. Experiments with intestinal and venom phosphodiesterases that catalyze the formation of 5′-phosphonucleotides and poly-nucleotide phosphorylase that catalyzes the de novo polymerization of nucleotide diphosphates are reported. All of the reactions examined proceed with retention of configuration at phosphorus.
Anemia of Inflammation.

Anemia of Inflammation Anemia of inflammation is a common normocytic, normochromic anemia associated with systemic inflammation that increases the level of hepcidin and results in defective iron re...
A new method for extracting DNA from the grape berry surface, beginning in the vineyard.

Abstract Isolating DNA from microbes on the surface of a grape berry is a challenge due to their adhesion to the thick berry skin and cuticle, making studies of the grape microbiome challenging. We developed a field-to-lab DNA extraction procedure that starts in the vineyard, disrupts the grape berry surface while en route to the lab through agitation, and efficiently extracts microbial DNA from the surface of the grape. It is cost effective and utilizes commonly available laboratory chemicals with low toxicity (Table 1). This protocol allows researchers to extract DNA from the grape berry surface in the field, therefore undergoing minimal manipulation of those microbiomes before DNA extraction.
Alternate Fusion Concepts

The most important long term environmental problem is how to supply the energy needs of expanding populations without the destructive side effects of global warming, water and air pollution and radioactivity. Controlled Thermonuclear Fusion involving D-T reactions in a Tokamak is the only long term program currently supported by US-DOE and by the international community. The US effort is very focused and is not expected to lead to a reactor in less than 30 years. Many problems remain involving stability, development of low activation materials, radio-activity, heat pollution, etc. If all of these problems were solved the reactor would not find any customers in today’s marketplace because of the size, complexity and cost of the system.1 Alternate concepts means the investigation of new ideas that might lead to a shorter development time and a reactor that would be competitive and environmentally acceptable now and 30 years hence.
Contained Rupture of Femoral Anastomotic Aneurysm

Contained rupture of right femoral anastomotic aneurysm presented as a pulsatile tender mass. An 8 mm Dacron was interposed between the remotely placed right limb of the graft following resection of anastomotic aneurysm. Proximal control was obtained using right lower quadrant extraperitoneal incision.
A Perspective on Organic Electrochemistry.

The author describes perspectives gained over many years of engagement in the field of organic electrochemistry. The manuscript will hopefully dispel a number of misconceptions and provide a framew...
Health and Wellness Coaching in Serving the Needs of Today’s Patients: A Primer for Healthcare Professionals

The past six decades have been marked by leaps and bounds in medical advances, while concurrently clinical outcomes and the quality of life continued to lag or decline. There is a need for more comprehensive approaches to delivering healthcare to patients that address illness and wellness within and outside healthcare settings. Mounting evidence shows that making sustainable changes in healthcare requires approaching patients'/individuals' care as a continuum-within and outside healthcare settings-while addressing their capacity (ie ability) and workload (ie demands) and incorporating their values and preferences. Health and Wellness Coaching (HWC) has been proposed as a solution to create partnerships to empower individuals to take ownership, leadership, and accountability of their well-being, using nondirective, empathic, and mindful conversations that employ motivational-interviewing and evidence-based approaches. Insufficient clarity exists among healthcare professionals in understanding the definition, roles, and types of HWC. This primer summarizes HWC concepts and history and compares HWC types and its potential role in promoting, supporting, and improving the well-being, clinical outcomes, and quality of life of the pertinent stakeholders. This primer also highlights current and potential areas of application of HWC within different subpopulations and healthcare-related settings.
SoRX: A Soft Pneumatic Hexapedal Robot to Traverse Rough, Steep, and Unstable Terrain

Soft robotics technology creates new ways for legged robots to interact with and adapt to their environment. In this paper we develop i) a new 2-degree-of-freedom soft pneumatic actuator, and ii) a novel soft robotic hexapedal robot called SoRX that leverages the new actuators. Simulation and physical testing confirm that the proposed actuator can generate cyclic foot trajectories that are appropriate for legged locomotion. Consistent with other hexapedal robots (and animals), SoRX employs an alternating tripod gait to propel itself forward. Experiments reveal that SoRX can reach forward speeds of up to 0.44 body lengths per second, or equivalently 101 mm/s. With a size of 230 mm length, 140 mm width and 100 mm height, and weight of 650 grams, SoRX is among the fastest tethered soft pneumatically-actuated legged robots to date. The motion capabilities of SoRX are evaluated through five experiments: running, step climbing, and traversing rough terrain, steep terrain, and unstable terrain. Experimental results show that SoRX is able to operate over challenging terrains in open-loop control and by following the same alternating tripod gait across all experimental cases.
Child-Caregiver Interactions During a Collaborative Motor Task in Children with Cerebral Palsy: A Descriptive Exploratory Study

Caregiver support is an important contextual factor in the daily functioning of children with cerebral palsy (CP), but few studies have examined child-caregiver interactions during collaborative motor tasks to identify characteristics of effective support that should be promoted in clinical interventions. The aims of this exploratory study were to (1) describe the interaction dynamics of children with CP and typically developing (TD) children with their respective caregivers during a collaborative motor task and (2) develop clinically relevant hypotheses regarding features of child-caregiver interactions that relate to effective caregiver support. Twelve child-caregiver dyads (6 including children with CP, 6 including TD children) participated. Each dyad attempted to construct the tallest tower structure in 10 min using marshmallows and raw spaghetti. Time-series of upper extremity positions were obtained through motion capture and used to examine child-caregiver movement coordination. Videos were coded for language structure and number of building materials used. Five TD dyads and one CP dyad successfully constructed a free-standing tower. During periods of increased tower breakage, TD dyads demonstrated increased movement coordination compared to CP dyads. Unsuccessful dyads (most of whom were CP dyads) demonstrated interaction dynamics characterized by the child leading in movement during periods of increased tower breakage. Overall, in TD dyads, caregivers used more interrogatives than imperatives, and children used more imperatives than interrogatives. This pattern was reversed for CP dyads. From these results we identified future hypotheses about aspects of interactions that may facilitate collaborative motor performance (and thus caregiver support) between children with CP and their caregivers.
The Impact of Growth Mindset Instruction on the Vocabulary Acquisition and Comprehension of First Grade Students

One potential contributor to student achievement that has garnered recent attention is students' mindset. A recent review of the literature on the effect of a growth mindset intervention on student...