Congratulations! Listed below are the papers selected for the JYE journal. We wish you the best and much success in all your future endeavors and continued explorations.
Abstract: Taiwan's family structure has undergone significant transformation over the past few decades, influenced by modernization, evolving social norms, and economic changes. Traditionally, Taiwan followed a Confucian family model, with multi-generational extended families being the norm. However, since the 1980s, Taiwan has shifted toward a Westernized nuclear family structure, consisting of two parents and their children, driven by economic modernization. This transition has led to more diverse and, at times, fragile family structures, notably an increase in single-parent households, particularly those led by women.
The rise in single-parent households, especially single-mother families, reflects Taiwan’s changing social values, including increased divorce rates. Unfortunately, Taiwanese society continues to stigmatize single mothers, rooted in Confucian ideals that prioritize families often consisting of male-dominated leadership in which single mothers are seen as part of "broken family units." The persistence of Confucian family values in Taiwan continues to influence societal and governmental attitudes toward single-parent households. Single mothers, in particular, often find themselves excluded from welfare programs designed for traditional two-parent families, further deepening their marginalization. These women not only face social stigma but also substantial challenges like financial hardship and inadequate government support. Such social marginalization significantly affects both the mothers and their children, who are at a heightened risk of economic disadvantage, emotional insecurity, and social isolation. The financial strain on these households often limits children's educational opportunities and emotional well-being.
While single-father households have historically been more financially stable, recent changes in the labor market have made them increasingly vulnerable. Uneducated single fathers now face significant challenges in securing stable employment, which has led to more significant economic hardship. Additionally, single fathers tend to be less involved in their children’s lives, further exacerbating emotional and developmental difficulties for their children. Hence, notwithstanding some gender differences ingrained in the culture, pressure to conform to traditional Taiwanese family structures, combined with inadequate governmental support, makes it difficult for single parents and their children to escape the obstacles of financial hardship, socioeconomic stigma, and educational setbacks.
References
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Cheng, Y, A. (2016). More education, fewer divorces? Shifting education differentials of divorce in Taiwan from 1975 to 2010. Demographic Research, Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research, Rostock, Germany, vol. 34(33), pp. 927-942.
Cheng, Y. A., & Wu, F. F. (2016). Going It Alone and Adrift: The Socioeconomic Profile and Parental Involvement of Single-Father and Single-Mother Families in Post-Industrial Taiwan. Journal of Population Research, vol. 33(2), pp. 147–72. http://www.jstor.org/stable/43919994.
Hong, Rei-Mei (2011) The lived experience of being a sole mother in Taiwan. PhD thesis, Queensland University of Technology.
Hsiao, V., Chen, S., & Withers, M. (2019). Understanding perspectives and lived experiences of at-risk Taiwanese teenage boys through photovoice. *Journal of Global Health Science*, 1(2), e40. https://doi.org/10.35500/jghs.2019.1.e40
Hsueh, J., Cai, L., & Keng, C. (2020). Single-parent families in Taiwan. The Institute for Family Studies. https://ifstudies.org/blog/single-parent-families-in-taiwan-
Lai, H. J. (2022). Social stigma and management strategies of unmarried single mothers in Taiwan. Asia Pacific Journal of Social Work and Development, 32:1, 38–49. https://doi.org/10.1080/02185385.2021.1934098
Lee, Ming-shan. (2021). On the Margins of the Nuclear Family: Single-Parenthood Stigma in Taiwan. Taiwaninsight.org.https://taiwaninsight.org/2021/01/25/on-the-margins-of-the-nuclear-family-single-parenthood-stigma-in-taiwan/
Lee, Ming-Yu (2001) What is the impact of a Confucian welfare regime upon lone mothers in Taiwan? PhD thesis, University of Nottingham.
Yang, Li-Ling. (2008, Sept.). The Life Stories of Motherhood Among Divorced Women in Taiwan. Journal of Nursing Research 16(3):p 220-230. | DOI: 10.1097/01.JNR.0000387309.19493.b0
Abstract: Castration-resistant prostate cancer (CPRC) is the lethal stage of prostate cancer that persists after androgen deprivation therapy. There are four epigenetic subtypes of CRPC including stem cell-like (SCL) which is AR-low/independent and lacks therapeutic options. CRPC-SCL is driven by FOSL1, a transcription factor critical to the survival of this disease subtype. Here, I uncovered that ERK inhibition using small molecules leads to suppression of FOSL1 and decreased viability in CRPC-SCL models. These data suggest that targeting the MAPK-ERK signaling pathway serves as a potential therapeutic strategy for stem cell-like prostate cancer.
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Abstract: Gender-based price discrimination, or “The Pink Tax,” is an economic bias that sees one gender charged a different price for the same goods or services. This "tax" is commonly levied on feminine-marketed products. Thus, “female” goods targeting are comparatively more expensive than those marketed to males. Previous research has confirmed the presence of gender-based price discrimination; this study expands this work by examining whether girls’ knowledge of these price disparities differs by high school type (single-sex or coeducational). Additionally, it evaluates the extent to which internalized sexism and/or relative masculinity vs. femininity contribute to adolescent girls’ knowledge.
147 participants chose between a series of binary product choices (masculine-advertised or feminine-advertised). They also completed 1) The Traditional Masculinity-Femininity (TMF) scale and 2) a self-designed Internalized Sexism Scale. These instruments evaluated subjects’ attitudes towards masculinity/femininity and gender roles. Additionally, participants were asked to define gender-based price discrimination in a free-response question. Both quantitative and qualitative coding and statistical analyses were undertaken. Adolescent girls' masculinity/femininity index was strongly correlated with tendency to choose feminine-advertised products. Those who most accurately defined gender-based discrimination reported significantly lower levels of internalized sexism. Unexpectedly, no significant differences between girls attending a single-sex school and those enrolled in a coeducational institution were found for any dependent variable. This suggests a societal-level problem beyond the reach of school environment.
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Abstract: Suicide is a widely increasing issue across the United States, particularly in adolescents due to the hormonal change that occur at their age (1). However, most research centered around suicide have focused on the adult population. This brings in an important issue of how suicide interacts with adolescents. The YRBS data set was used to gather data on adolescent suicidal behavior and their health risk behaviors. There were three questions in the survey that had suicidal information, and the user input for these questions, each participant was categorized into 1 of 6 increasing categories of suicidal ideation. Chi-square tests of independence were used to select risk factors from the data set to add into the final regression model. A separate model was created for location, and odds ratios from the model showed that every borough sampled in New York City were 18 times less likely to have higher levels of suicidal ideation compared to other locations sampled. For the health-risk behaviors, once again odds ratios were calculated from the coefficients of the ordinal regression model. The risk factors with strong positive associations with suicidal ideation were forced sexual intercourse, followed by bullying and cyber bullying. On the other hand, risk factors with strong negative associations were getting 8 hours of sleep, eating breakfast everyday, and staying physically active everyday. The implications of the findings give future researchers clear questions to investigate to battle suicide in a largely neglected population.
References
Manceaux, Pauline, et al. “Hormonal and Developmental Influences on Adolescent Suicide: A Systematic Review.” Psychiatria Danubina, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 27 Sept. 2015, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26417784/.
Cash, Scottye J, and Jeffrey A Bridge. “Epidemiology of Youth Suicide and Suicidal Behavior.” Current Opinion in Pediatrics, vol. 21, no. 5, 2009, pp. 613–619, doi:10.1097/mop.0b013e32833063e1.
Harmer, Bonnie, et al. “Suicidal Ideation.” National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 24 Apr. 2023, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33351435/.
Millner, Alexander J., et al. “Describing and Measuring the Pathway to Suicide Attempts: A Preliminary Study.” Suicide and Life-Threatening Behavior, vol. 47, no. 3, 2016, pp. 353–369, doi:10.1111/sltb.12284.
Tariq, Naveen, and Vikas Gupta. “High Risk Behaviors.” National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 11 July 2022, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32809591/.
Center of Disease Control and Prevention. “YRBSS Overview.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 27 Apr. 2023, www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/data/yrbs/overview.htm.
Mendelsohn, Colin. “Smoking and Depression--a Review.” Australian Family Physician, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 4 May 2012, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22558621/.
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Center for Disease Control and Prevention. “Stats of the State - Suicide Mortality.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 15 Feb. 2023, www.cdc.gov/nchs/pressroom/sosmap/suicide-mortality/suicide.htm.
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Dir, Allyson L., et al. “Depressive Symptoms Following Recent Sexual Assault: The Role of Drug and Alcohol Use, Acute Stress, and Assault Characteristics.” Journal of Interpersonal Violence, vol. 36, no. 11–12, 24 June 2018, pp. 5900–5913, doi:10.1177/0886260518803605.
Selkie, Ellen M., et al. “Cyberbullying, Depression, and Problem Alcohol Use in Female College Students: A Multisite Study.” Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking, vol. 18, no. 2, 1 Feb. 2015, pp. 79–86, doi:10.1089/cyber.2014.0371.
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López-Sobaler, Ana M.a, et al. “Importancia Del Desayuno En La Mejora Nutricional y Sanitaria de La Población.” Nutrición Hospitalaria, vol. 35, no. 6, 2018, doi:10.20960/nh.2278.
Abstract: In modern digital communication, analyzing signals and reducing noise is essential in producing precise and audible sound files, accurately rendering images, or any process in which continuous analog input data needs to be digitized and mathematically manipulated. A prime example is a speech, in which even slight amounts of noise can lead from anywhere to slightly distorted to completely unintelligible sounds. Because human ears are relatively more sensitive to higher-frequency sounds than lower-frequency sounds, we are vulnerable to these unwanted noises, mainly consisting of high-frequency sounds compared to main sound sources such as voice. Thus, to emphasize and enhance the original signal, numerous systems have been designed to diminish noise and amplify the intended signal using filters (which serve to suppress certain characteristics of a signal. These noise-removing systems can be further improved by implementing proper algorithms and mathematical windowing functions to increase effectiveness. In this paper, we employ combinations of a Low Pass Filter (LPF) and various windows to find the best-fit LPF window combination to achieve the highest noise reduction efficiency. We implicated various filter designs at simple trigonometric functions and varying samples to substantiate and illustrate the noise-removing efficiency of nine unique selected filter designs. To collect data, we used MATLAB to analyze the audio files and execute the Fast Fourier Transform onto the original continuous analog voice.
Keywords: Noise reduction, Acoustics, Algorithm, MatLab, Fast Fourier Transform), Low Pass Filter
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Abstract: The prevalence of wildfires in the Western United States has had devastating effects, and due to climate change, these fires are becoming more and more common. One effective way to address this issue is through appropriately and adequately distributing fire fighting stations in high-risk areas. In this research, geospatial analysis was used to locate the fire stations most overworked in terms of the area they are responsible for, the density of housing units in that area, and the risk of a fire in the area. In order to do this, archived data on the locations of fire stations and the fire risk at various locations in Idaho was used. The risk data was calculated in previous research. A Voronoi Diagram was generated around each fire station to define the area of responsibility for each station. A Voronoi Diagram was also created around the risk locations. Overlapping these polygons allowed for the calculation of the risk that each fire station is responsible for. By multiplying the risk across the cell by the area of the cell the most overworked stations in Idaho were revealed. The results showed two especially high-risk stations, one in Southeast Boise and one in Mountain Home. Respectively, their risks are 4835% and 4340% of the average station risk. The construction of additional fire stations in these areas could work to reduce this risk, but further research is needed here.
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Abstract: Green roofs (GRs) are typically used to retain stormwater and are increasingly being used to produce food by growing edible vegetation, such as Mad Hatter Peppers (Capsicum baccatum). However, there have been conflicting studies on whether GRs can feasibly produce Capsicum baccatum in GRs compared to in-ground production. To test this, water retention was compared among small-scale models of three different vegetation types: two Sedum setups, two Capsicum baccatum setups, and one bare setup. The models used water storage compartments and moisture retention fabric to increase water retention and to reduce the need for irrigation. There was not a statistically significant difference in water retention between the different vegetation types, and the Capsicum baccatum wilted by the end of the study, so it did not produce food. These results indicate that Sedum should be used in future GRs because they can provide many benefits other than water retention, whereas Capsicum baccatum may not be healthy enough to provide other benefits.
References
Manceaux, Pauline, et al. “Hormonal and Developmental Influences on Adolescent Suicide: A Systematic Review.” Psychiatria Danubina, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 27 Sept. 2015, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26417784/.
Cash, Scottye J, and Jeffrey A Bridge. “Epidemiology of Youth Suicide and Suicidal Behavior.” Current Opinion in Pediatrics, vol. 21, no. 5, 2009, pp. 613–619, doi:10.1097/mop.0b013e32833063e1.
Harmer, Bonnie, et al. “Suicidal Ideation.” National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 24 Apr. 2023, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33351435/.
Millner, Alexander J., et al. “Describing and Measuring the Pathway to Suicide Attempts: A Preliminary Study.” Suicide and Life-Threatening Behavior, vol. 47, no. 3, 2016, pp. 353–369, doi:10.1111/sltb.12284.
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Abstract: Increasing evidence suggests that Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by SARS-CoV-2 has affected the global population, but a group often overlooked is the adolescent population. Facing milder symptoms of COVID-19 as compared to their older counterparts, adolescents are not the prime focus of COVID research. This study measured the impacts of COVID on teenage neural processing and speech perception.
The current study compared the neural response to speech sounds in high-schoolers with and without a history of contracting COVID. event-related potential paradigm was used, and the electro-encephalogram (EEG) waves were time-locked to each speech stimulus. The mismatch negativity responses ( the difference between the standard and deviant sounds) were compared between the two participant groups. The two English vowels /ɪ/ and /ɛ/ were used in a nine-equal-step continuum as stimuli.
Overall, adolescents without a history of COVID showed larger standard and deviant responses at all three brain regions and across both standard and deviant conditions, except deviant conditions at the dominant hemisphere. Taken together, these findings suggest that contracting COVID may have long-term effects on the brains of adolescents. Future studies may examine the longer-term effect of COVID on the developing brain, given that participants of this study who had COVID were tested within 6 months of recovery.
References
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Recognition Correlate With Self-Reported Listening Effort and Fatigue. Ear and hearing, 39(3),
470–474. https://doi.org/10.1097/AUD.0000000000000515
Bishop, N. A., Lu, T., & Yankner, B. A. (2010). Neural mechanisms of ageing and cognitive
decline. Nature, 464(7288), 529–535. https://doi.org/10.1038/nature08983
Briscoe, J., Bishop, D. V., & Norbury, C. F. (2001). Phonological processing, language, and
literacy: a comparison of children with mild-to-moderate sensorineural hearing loss and those
with specific language impairment. Journal of child psychology and psychiatry, and allied
disciplines, 42(3), 329–340.
Carod-Artal F. J. (2021). Post-COVID-19 syndrome: epidemiology, diagnostic criteria and
pathogenic mechanisms involved. Síndrome post-COVID-19: epidemiología, criterios
diagnósticos y mecanismos patogénicos implicados. Revista de neurologia, 72(11), 384–396.
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Ceban, F., Ling, S., Lui, L. M. W., Lee, Y., Gill, H., Teopiz, K. M., Rodrigues, N. B.,
Subramaniapillai, M., Di Vincenzo, J. D., Cao, B., Lin, K., Mansur, R. B., Ho, R. C., Rosenblat,
J. D., Miskowiak, K. W., Vinberg, M., Maletic, V., & McIntyre, R. S. (2022). Fatigue and
cognitive impairment in Post-COVID-19 Syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
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negativity shows that 3-6-year-old children can learn to discriminate non-native speech sounds
within two months. Neuroscience letters, 325(3), 187–190.
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Abstract: In modern digital communication, analyzing signals and reducing noise is essential in producing precise and audible sound files, accurately rendering images, or any process in which continuous analog input data needs to be digitized and mathematically manipulated. A prime example is a speech, in which even slight amounts of noise can lead from anywhere to slightly distorted to completely unintelligible sounds. Because human ears are relatively more sensitive to higher-frequency sounds than lower-frequency sounds, we are vulnerable to these unwanted noises, mainly consisting of high-frequency sounds compared to main sound sources such as voice. Thus, to emphasize and enhance the original signal, numerous systems have been designed to diminish noise and amplify the intended signal using filters (which serve to suppress certain characteristics of a signal. These noise-removing systems can be further improved by implementing proper algorithms and mathematical windowing functions to increase effectiveness. In this paper, we employ combinations of a Low Pass Filter (LPF) and various windows to find the best-fit LPF window combination to achieve the highest noise reduction efficiency. We implicated various filter designs at simple trigonometric functions and varying samples to substantiate and illustrate the noise-removing efficiency of nine unique selected filter designs. To collect data, we used MATLAB to analyze the audio files and execute the Fast Fourier Transform onto the original continuous analog voice.
Keywords: Noise reduction, Acoustics, Algorithm, MatLab, Fast Fourier Transform), Low Pass Filter
References
[1] Bhagat, R. and Kaur, R. (2013) Improved Audio Filtering Using Extended High Pass Filters.
[2] Singla, Er.M. and Singh, Mr.H. (2015) Frequency Based Audio Noise Reduction Using Butter Worth, Chebyshev & Elliptical Filters. International Journal on Recent and Innovation Trends in Computing and Communication.
http://www.ijritcc.org/download/browse/Volume_3_Issues/October_15
_Volume_3_Issue_10/1446450414_02-11-2015.pdf
[3] Singh, M. and Garg, Er.N.K. (2014) Audio Noise Reduction Using Butter Worth Filter.
http://www.ijcotjournal.org/volume-6/number-1/IJCOT-V6P305.pdf
[4] Gavel, A., LalSahu, H., Sharma, G. and Rahi, P.K. (2015) Design of Lowpass Fir Filter Using Rectangular and Hamming Window Techniques.
http://ijiset.com/vol3/v3s8/IJISET_V3_I8_33.pdf
[5] Shenoi, B.A. (2006) Introduction to Digital Signal Processing and Filter Design. 1st Edition, John Wiley & Sons, Canada.
Abstract: The study of epigenetics is an essential area of cancer, neurodegenerative disease, and addiction research. Epigenetic disorder involves various mechanisms such as DNA methylation, histone modification, and RNA regulation, which activate or repress gene expression. The exposure of a cell to Benzo(a)pyrene BaP is significantly associated with methylation levels at CpGs. Polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) result in altered methylation status and deregulation of the biotin homeostasis pathway, which causes carcinogenesis. Presented research has focused on the stereochemical and thermodynamical aspects of BaP and its derivatives, which are the developmental and reproductive carcinogens that are epigenetic modifiers. BPDE was shown to bind to DNA, which resulted in the methylated DNA formation and alteration of DNA methyltransferase (DNMT). In this paper, open-source molecular editing programs such as Avogadro and Gaussian with an auto-optimization feature that can calculate the theoretical values of a molecule’s physicochemical properties are used to model the compounds. The program enables us to build virtually any biochemical compounds and will find the thermodynamic stability or safety of the nanoparticles can be assessed by optimal Enthalpy(kJ/mol), and the activity of the compounds is determined by the values of Dipole Moment(DM, Debye) and Electrostatic potential maps(EPMs). Density-functional theory (DFT), which is one of the most popular computational methods, is used in computational quantum mechanical modeling to study electronic structure.
Keywords – Methylated DNA, epigene, DNA methyltransferase(DNMT), molecular editing programs, physicochemical properties
References
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2. Farmer, P. "Biomarkers of exposure and effect for environmental carcinogens, and their applicability to human molecular epidemiological studies". Public Health Applications of Human Biomonitoring. U.S. EPA. Retrieved 22 June 2011.
3. Marnett LJ (March 1999). "Lipid peroxidation-DNA damage by malondialdehyde". Mutat. Res. 424 (1–2): 83–95. doi:10.1016/s0027-5107(99)00010-x. PMID 10064852.
4. Aykan NF (2015). "Red Meat and Colorectal Cancer". Oncol Rev. 9 (1): 288. doi:10.4081/oncol.2015.288. PMC 4698595. PMID 26779313.
5. Wolk A (2017). "Potential health hazards of eating red meat". J. Intern. Med. 281 (2): 106–122. doi:10.1111/joim.12543. PMID 27597529.
6. Hemeryck LY, Van Hecke T, Vossen E, De Smet S, Vanhaecke L (2017). "DNA adductomics to study the genotoxic effects of red meat consumption with and without added animal fat in rats". Food Chem. 230: 378–387. doi:10.1016/j.foodchem.2017.02.129. PMID 28407925.
7. Kastan MB (April 2008). "DNA damage responses: mechanisms and roles in human disease: 2007 G.H.A. Clowes Memorial Award Lecture". Molecular Cancer Research. 6 (4): 517–24. doi:10.1158/1541-7786.MCR-08-0020. PMID 18403632.
Abstract:
A Novel Approach Using Designed Algorithms for Long-term Injuries Caused by Fall
1
Abstract –According to the CDC, 3 million people are treated yearly for fall related injuries. Fall has become a major public health problem and the second leading cause of unintentional deaths. Epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, visual impairment, and neuropathy are just a few of the illnesses that can increase the risk of falling. The purpose of this experiment was to use a fall detection algorithm to create a protective mechanism. An algorithm was developed with the use of Arduino and tri-axial accelerometers and gyro sensors. After calibrating the sensors accurately and coding in the Arduino IDE, the accelerometers were placed on a CPR manikin to model the fall of a person. After recording the slant height of the manikin during its fall, the data illustrated that the tilt of 67.01 degrees and the coordinates of (7.78, -4.08, and 8.79) is when the gear must be triggered. Through the aggregation of data, the ideal location to place the sensors was identified. Using this data, an appropriate airbag mechanism was designed. This is particularly helpful in cases where the elderly have a fall. The expansion of this project to a global scale can save millions of lives and prevent injuries from other accidental falls.
Keywords: Epilepsy, Algorithm, Seizures, Fall, Tonic-Clonic
References
Verma, Santosh K, et al. “Falls and Fall-Related Injuries among Community-Dwelling Adults in the United States.” PloS One, Public Library of Science, 15 Mar. 2016, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4792421
“Bone Fractures.” Bone Fractures - Better Health Channel, https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/bone-fractures.
NHS Choices, NHS, https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/epilepsy/symptoms/#:~:text=A%20tonic%2Dclonic%20seizure%2C%20previously,may%20fall%20to%20the%20floor.
“Tonic-Clonic (Grand Mal) Seizures.” Johns Hopkins Medicine, https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/epilepsy/tonic-clonic-grand-mal-seizures.
“Preventing Epilepsy.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 30 Sept. 2020, https://www.cdc.gov/epilepsy/preventing-epilepsy.htm#:~:text=Use%20safety%20belts%2C%20child%20passenger,of%20brain%20injuries%20from%20falls.
Abstract: Pharmaceuticals are very important due to their role in helping humans in many ways. People tend to flush these pharmaceuticals once they expire. Once flushed, it ends up in water ecosystems, which affects both the water and the different organisms that inhabit those environments. One organism that pharmaceuticals can affect is Chlorophyta, or better known as Green algae. Cetirizine and Loratadine, or more commonly referred to as Zyrtec and Claritin, are medicines used for allergy purposes that will be used for this study.
In this research study, numerous items were used. These items consisted of the Chlorophyta plant, the two pharmaceuticals (in serum form), a hood fume, pipettes, graduated cylinders, a beaker, test tubes, 1 1000mL wheaton bottle, 5 125mL wheaton bottles, water, and 5 250mL erlenmeyer flasks.
Concentrations (10%, 1%, .1%, .01%, 0%) of the pharmaceuticals were made by measuring 90mL of water and 10mL of each pharmaceutical. The Zyrtec concentrations were poured into 125mL wheaton bottles, while the Claritin concentrations were poured into 250 ml erlenmeyer flasks. 5mL of Chlorophyta was then pipetted into 45 test tubes to later have the concentration percents pipetted into them. Data was collected by using a spectrophotometer daily.
As a result, it is unclear whether the hypothesis was supported or not. For future research, it is recommended to use different pharmaceuticals, try a different type of algae, see what specific ingredients cause the medicine to affect the algae, etc.
Keywords: Chlorophyta, Cetirizine, Loratadine, Pharmaceuticals, Concentrations
References
Abstract: With the COVID-19 pandemic and other global conflicts taking over the media, the rapid dissemination of misinformation online has drawn attention to the problem of fake news. Fake news can have detrimental effects, as demonstrated by the impact of the online anti-masking advocacy in exacerbating the COVID-19 pandemic. Various solutions have been proposed regarding the detection of fake news, with one of the most promising being deep learning. This study aims to advance current deep learning solutions in the field of fake news detection with the development of a CNN-RNN (convolutional neural network-recurrent neural network) with a complementary URL classifier. In constructing the fake news classifier, datasets were run through pre-processing techniques before being used for training. The model was subsequently tested on three datasets, spanning different areas of news: ISOT (general news), ReCOVery (COVID-19 news), and FA-KES (Syrian war news). A user interface additionally facilitated public access to the fake news classifier. After training the model on the ISOT and ReCOVery datasets, the model was able to achieve overall testing accuracies of 0.9898 (ISOT), 0.8466 (ReCOVery), and 0.5441 (FA-KES). Overall, this study broadens the options with which fake news can be identified.
Keywords – CNN-RNN (convolutional neural network-recurrent neural network), deep learning, fake news, ISOT, FA-KES, ReCOVery, UI (user interface)
References
Ahmed H, Traore I, Saad S. “Detecting opinion spams and fake news using text classification”, Journal of Security and Privacy, Volume 1, Issue 1, Wiley, January/February 2018.
Ahmed H, Traore I, Saad S. (2017) “Detection of Online Fake News Using N-Gram Analysis and Machine Learning Techniques. In: Traore I., Woungang I., Awad A. (eds) Intelligent, Secure, and Dependable Systems in Distributed and Cloud Environments. ISDDC 2017. Lecture Notes in Computer Science, vol 10618. Springer, Cham (pp. 127- 138).
BBC. (2020, May 24). Coronavirus: Which health claims are circulating online? BBC News.
Buchanan, T., & Benson, V. (2019). Spreading disinformation on Facebook: do trust in message source, risk propensity, or personality affect the organic reach of “fake news”?. Social media+ society, 5(4), 2056305119888654.
Desai, S., Mooney, H., & Oehrli, J. A. (2020). Research guides:“fake news,” lies and propaganda: how to sort fact from fiction: what is “fake news”. Michigan University.
Elhadad, M. K., Li, K. F., & Gebali, F. (2019, November). A novel approach for selecting hybrid features from online news textual metadata for fake news detection. In International Conference on P2P, Parallel, Grid, Cloud and Internet Computing (pp. 914-925). Springer, Cham.
Gottfried, J. (2020). Around three-in-ten Americans are very confident they could fact-check news about COVID-19. Pew Research Center.
Jain, A. K., & Gupta, B. B. (2018). PHISH-SAFE: URL features-based phishing detection system using machine learning. In Cyber Security (pp. 467-474). Springer, Singapore.
Mazzeo, V., Rapisarda, A., & Giuffrida, G. (2021). Detection of Fake News on COVID-19 on Web Search Engines. Frontiers in Physics, 9.
Nasir, J. A., Khan, O. S., & Varlamis, I. (2021). Fake news detection: A hybrid CNN-RNN based deep learning approach. International Journal of Information Management Data Insights, 1(1), 100007.
Newberry, C. (2022, February 28). How the Facebook algorithm works in 2022. Hootsuite.
Saleh, H., Alharbi, A., & Alsamhi, S. H. (2021). OPCNN-FAKE: Optimized convolutional neural network for fake news detection. IEEE Access, 9, 129471-129489.
Salem, F. K. A., Al Feel, R., Elbassuoni, S., Jaber, M., & Farah, M. (2019, July). Fa-kes: A fake news dataset around the syrian war. In Proceedings of the International AAAI Conference on Web and Social Media (Vol. 13, pp. 573-582).
Sample, C., Jensen, M. J., Scott, K., McAlaney, J., Fitchpatrick, S., Brockinton, A., ... & Ormrod, A. (2020). Interdisciplinary lessons learned while researching fake news. Frontiers in Psychology, 2947.
Snopes media bias rating. AllSides. (2021, August 18).
Abstract: African Americans are often viewed as a monolithic group in the United States because Black people generally have been subjected to the same racism and prejudice throughout American society. While African Americans have had many similar experiences in the United States, their opinions on the current political, social, and economic worldview may differ based on ethnic groups. The author chose to closely examine the extent to which family history and decade of one's arrival (or one's family's arrival) to the United States, and the region from which one (or one's family) originated, might influence the current political, social and economic worldview of adolescent and adult Americans who self-identify as Black. In order to study the effects of these variables, I administered surveys to 146 African American adults in suburban New York City. The online survey consisted of four parts. These parts included views on economic success, law enforcement, current events, specifically the Black Lives Matter Movement, and Black representation in American society. Ultimately the study found statistically significant differences between region/decade of arrival and societal world views. There were also gender gaps.
Keywords: African-American, representation, BLM, Afro-Caribbean, African, economic success
References
Abstract: Pneumonia, a fatal lung disease, is caused by infection of Streptococcus pneumoniae; it is detected by chest x-rays that reveal inflammation of the alveoli. However, the efficiency by which it is diagnosed can be improved through the use of artificial intelligence. Convolutional neural networks (CNNs), a form of artificial intelligence, have recently demonstrated enhanced accuracy when classifying images. This study used CNNs to analyze chest x-rays and predict the probability the patient has pneumonia. Furthermore, a comprehensive investigation was conducted, examining the function of various components of the CNN, in the context of pneumonia x-rays. This study was able to achieve significantly high performance, making it viable for clinical implementation. Furthermore, the architecture of the proposed model is applicable to various other diseases, and can thus be used to optimize the disease diagnosis industry.
Keywords: artificial intelligence, disease diagnosis, pneumonia, convolutional neural networks, machine learning
References
Abstract: The focus of this project is the study of catalysts for the conversion of methane to methanol as a new energy source. The methanol economy may prove to solve the problems that other energy sources create. Transition metals are treasured for their ability to assist with catalyzing reactions, including those which are used in new energy sources such as methanol based. In the past, transition metals have been used for the conversion of methane to methanol. Their catalytic efficiencies of Titanium oxides are modeled and explained based on the compound’s electron structure and how the catalytic efficiency could be improved even more by forcing the catalyst to react with methane in different ways (which are much easier to study computationally than experimentally, due to economic reasons). Catalytic oxidation reactions are crucial for chemical synthesis in pharmaceutical and petrochemicals industries. Prior research results have been controversial regarding the efficiencies of each catalyst. However, the contradictory results are due to inconsistencies of the theoretical and computational models which I reconcile in my model.
References
[1]Wes, Hickman. "Peak Oil and Public Health: Political Common Ground?" ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 08 Aug. 2011. Web. 13 June 2013.
[2] Olah, George A., Alain Goeppert, and G. K. Surya. Prakash.Beyond Oil and Gas: The Methanol Economy. Weinheim [an Der Bergstrasse, Germany: Wiley-VCH, 2006. Print.
[3] Kulik, Heather J., and Nicola Marzari. "Electronic Structure and Reactivity of Transition Metal Complexes."Standford.edu. Department of Education, 2010. Web. <http://www.stanford.edu/~hkulik/www/Publications_files/05c14.pdf>.
[4] Božović, Andrea, Stefan Feil, Gregory K. Koyanagi, Albert A. Viggiano, Xinhao Zhang, Maria Schlangen, Helmut Schwarz, and Diethard K. Bohme. "Conversion of Methane to Methanol: Nickel, Palladium, and Platinum (d9) Cations as Catalysts for the Oxidation of Methane by Ozone at Room Temperature."Chemistry - A European Journal16.38 (2010): 11605-1610. Print.
[5] Periana, R. A., D. J. Taube, S. Gamble, H. Taube, T. Satoh, and H. Fujii. "ChemInform Abstract: Platinum Catalysts for the High-Yield Oxidation of Methane to a Methanol Derivative."ChemInform29.29 (1998): No. Print.
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Abstract: This paper attempts to answer the conundrum of whether the meaning of life is subjective by analyzing Søren Kierkegaard’s arguments in his work Stages of Life’s Way, and discusses various interpretations of life’s meaningfulness by analyzing the different viewpoints of philosophers— Daan Evers, Richard Taylor, and Susan Wolf. The first part of the paper analyzes Søren Kierkegaard’s three stages of life: aesthetic, ethical, and religious. The paper then analyzes the notion that the meaning of life is personal and there may be endless subjective ways in which one can live a meaningful life via Richard Taylor’s evaluation of Sisyphus’s life in both standard form analysis and its analysis diagrams and Susan Wolf’s remarks on subjectivity and objectivity. We also explore Daan Evers’s claim that the meaning of life requires the existence of objective values. In addition to the Standard Form Analysis, Diagrams for the Logics are also introduced and shown. When considering that the meaning of life is subjective (that meaningfulness comes from within), one must observe the opposite view: that meaningfulness comes from objective values existing outside of the individual. Therefore, we examine two hypothetical versions of Sisyphus, one where he rolls the stone up a hill and builds a beautiful temple, and the other where he rolls the stone for no apparent reason but enjoys doing it. While some philosophers use the second hypothetical claim to discredit subjectivism, arguing that a positive attitude is not enough to project meaning onto one’s existence, subjectivists perceive life from their own individuality—that each belief is unique. The paper concludes that everyone views life subjectively, even if they hold objective values.
References
Evers, D. 2017. “Meaning in Life and the Metaphysics of Value,” De Ethica. A Journal of Philosophical, Theological and Applied Ethics, Vol. 4:3, 27-44.
Taylor, R. 2000. “The Meaning of Life,” in Ethics: History, Theory, and Contemporary Issues, Cahn, Markie, (Eds.). New York, Oxford: Oxford University Press, 948-953.
“Chapter 2: An Expression of Gratitude to Lessing.” Kierkegaard's Concluding Unscientific Postscript, by Søren Kierkegaard et al., Princeton University Press, 1974, pp.63–86.
“Chapter 2: Selections from 'Either/Or' and 'Fear and Trembling'.” Kierkegaard's Concluding Unscientific Postscript, by Søren Kierkegaard et al., Princeton University Press, 1974, pp. 30–63.
Hudecki, Dennis. “Kierkegaard's Concept of Self.” Philosophy 2553F: Forerunners of Existentialism. Hudecki, Dennis. “Kierkegaard's Concluding Unscientific Postscript.” Philosophy 2553F: Forerunners of Existentialism.
Hudecki, Dennis. “Some Key Concepts in Fear and Trembling.” Philosophy 2553F: Forerunners of Existentialism.
Abstract: The responses to the COVID-19 pandemic have varied significantly across different political systems. Numerous factors may be attributable to the differing rates of infection rates across various countries such as availability of universal healthcare and reliance on public transportation. In fact, the political system of a particular country may determine how that country has addressed the pandemic and thereby affect that country’s infection rates. This paper will compare the political systems, pandemic responses and infection rates of countries. First, each country’s political systems will be briefly described. Next, the two countries’ respective infection rates and pandemic responses will be compared.
As part of my analysis, I will examine how the US political system may have resulted in more effective or less effective pandemic strategies. Finally, drawing from the strategies used by other countries, two specific suggestions for improving the U.S.’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic will be considered. In a vast country like the US, the best way to mitigate the crisis is to handle it region-by-region due to the vast disparity in economy and population state-by-state rather than governmental intervention. Compared to other countries, the United States is more decentralized and naturally, states have gotten more power regarding laws and quarantines during this crisis (Dziobek, 2010). That being said, although the countries of the world have indeed done much to quarantine the crisis, states must keep control of individual laws (Dziobek, 2010). Specifically, states like California, Florida, Texas, New York and Georgia have the worst second wave of cases in the country. Since the virus is affecting states in different ways than ever imagined, state governments should be moderating the virus based on their situation rather than national lockdowns like in other countries. With five states accounting for more than 40% of all COVID-19 cases, this solution shows much promise for specifically this country.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Geographic Differences in COVID-19 Cases, Deaths, and Incidence — United States, February 12–April 7, 2020. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/69/wr/mm6915e4.htm#:~:text=Community%20transmission%20of%20COVID%2D,of%20COVID%2D19.
Cirillo, P., Taleb, N.N. Tail risk of contagious diseases. Nat. Phys. 16, 606–613 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41567-020-0921-x.
Ding, Lei, and Alvaro Sanchez. “COVID-19 and the Philadelphia Fed.” Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia, Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia, Apr. 2020, philadelphiafed.org/covid-19/covid-19-equity-in-recovery/what-small-businesses-will-be-impacted.
Dziobek, Claudia, et al. “Measuring Fiscal Decentralization – Exploring the IMF’s Databases.” International Monetary Fund, International Monetary Fund, www.imf.org/external/pubs/ft/wp/2011/wp11126.pdf.
Eckfeldt, Bruce. “Key Questions to Guide Your Post-Pandemic Plan.” Inc.com, Mansueto Ventures, 25 Apr. 2020, www.inc.com/bruce-eckfeldt/key-questions-to-guide-your-post-pandemic-plan.html.
Fox, Michelle. “How These Small Businesses Are Surviving during the Coronavirus Pandemic.” CNBC, CNBC, 9 Aug. 2020, www.cnbc.com/2020/08/08/coronavirus-how-these-small-businesses-are-surviving-the-pandemic.html.
Jiang, I. (2020). Here's the difference between an 'essential' business and a 'nonessential' business as more than 30 states have imposed restrictions. Business Insider. Retrieved from https://www.businessinsider.com/what-is-a-nonessential-business-essential-business-coronavirus-2020-3
Lexis Nexus. (2020). Economic Risk—What Is It and How to Effectively Manage It. Retrieved from https://www.lexisnexis.com/en-us/products/entity-insight/economic-risk.page#:~:text=%E2%80%B9%20%E2%80%BA,that%20may%20adversely%20affect%20profits.
Maxouris, Christina. “US Tops 5 Million Covid-19 Cases, with Five States Making up More than 40% of Tally.” CNN, Cable News Network, 9 Aug. 2020, www.cnn.com/2020/08/09/health/us-coronavirus-sunday/index.html.
Abstract: The visually manipulative characteristics of VR technology can have many different usages. A prominent one is the usage of VR in the medical field, more specifically, surgery training. Osso VR, a virtual reality surgery training platform, is making its way into residency programs of American medical schools, including the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine and Harvard Medical School. (Fink) The usage of VR is especially effective in surgery training, as an accurate digital simulation of real surgery environments can be created, and surgeons do not have to feel the same pressure and stressful circumstances of a real surgery.
These technologies all have a commonality: they are manipulating human perception. These technologies all evoke synesthetic experiences across multiple modalities, which means that a visual experience from VR, AR, or 4D cinema can trigger another sensory experience, such as the sense of hearing or touch. These experiences are all possible thanks to the technology that manipulates human perception, and one would not be able to have such experiences in normal daily life.
References
Chislock, M.F.; Doster, E.; Zitomer, R.A.; Wilson, A.E. (2013)."Eutrophication: Causes, Consequences, and Controls in Aquatic Ecosystems". Nature Education Knowledge. 4 (4): 10. Retrieved 10 March 2018.Cycleback, David Rudd. 2003. “Eye/Brain Physiology and Human Perception of External Reality.” A Look at How Humans Think and See.
Danieau, Fabien, et al. 2014. Toward Haptic Cinematography: Enhancing Movie Experience with Haptic E ects based on Cinematographic Camera Motions. IEEE MultiMedia, Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers: 1-14.
Fink, Charlie. 2018. “Osso VR Surgical Training Makes Push Into Med Schools.” Forbes,
Hill, Joe. “3D Pavement Art.” Joe Hill Art.
Howard, Ian P., and Brian J. Rogers. 1995. Binocular Vision and Stereopsis. Oxford University Press, Inc.
Krevelen, D.W.F van, and R. Poelman. 2010. A Survey of Augmented Reality Technologies, Applications and Limitations. Delft University of Technology.
Garciá-Valle, Gonzalo, et al. 2017. Evaluation of Presence in Virtual Environments: Haptic Vest and User’s Haptic Skills. Smith, V., Tilman, G., & Nekola, J. (1999). Eutrophication: Impacts of excess nutrient inputs on freshwater, marine, and terrestrial ecosystems. Environmental Pollution,100( 1-3), 179-196. doi:10.1016/s0269-7491(99)00091-3 12
Manjoo, Farhad. 2008. “A Look at Disney and Pixar’s 3-D Movie Technology.” Salon.
Summers, Nick. 2016. “Ikea Made a Kitchen Showroom in VR.” Engadget.
Verrier, Richard. 2009. “3-D Technology Firm RealD Has Starring Role at Movie Theaters.” Los Angeles Times.
Abstract: Deep convolutional neural networks - the state-of-the-art technique in artificial intelligence for computer vision - achieve notable success rates at simple classification tasks, but are fundamentally lacking when it comes to representation.
These neural networks encode fuzzy textural patterns into vast matrices of numbers which lack the semantically structured nature of human representations (e.g. "a table is a flat horizontal surface supported by an arrangement of identical legs").
This paper takes multiple important steps towards filling in these gaps. I first propose a series of tractable milestone problems set in the abstract two dimensional ShapeWorld, thus isolating the challenge of object compositionality. Then I demonstrate the effectiveness of a new compositional representation approach based on identifying structure among the primitive elements comprising an image and representing this structure through an augmented primitive element tree and coincidence list. My approach outperforms state-of-the-art benchmark algorithms in speed and structural representation in my object representation milestone tasks, while yielding comparable classification accuracy. Finally, I present a mathematical framework for a probabilistic programming approach that can learn highly structured generative stochastic representations of compositional objects from just a handful of examples.
Keywords – Deep convolutional neural networks, state-of-the-art benchmark algorithms, two dimensional ShapeWorld, compositional objects
References
[1] A. Krizhevsky, I. Sutskever, and G. E. Hinton. Imagenet classification with deep convolutional neural networks. In F. Pereira, C. J. C. Burges, L. Bottou, and K. Q. Weinberger, editors, Advances in Neural Information Processing Systems 25, pages 1097–1105. Curran Associates, Inc., 2012.
[2] H. Wang, B. Gao, J. Bian, F. Tian, and T. Liu. Solving verbal comprehension questions in IQ test by knowledge-powered word embedding. CoRR, abs/1505.07909, 2015.
[3] J. Johnson, B. Hariharan, L. van der Maaten, L. Fei-Fei, C. L. Zitnick, and R. B. Girshick. CLEVR: A diagnostic dataset for compositional language and elementary visual reasoning. CoRR, abs/1612.06890, 2016.
[4] Y. Lecun, L. Bottou, Y. Bengio, and P. Haffner. Gradient-based learning applied to document recognition. Proceedings of the IEEE, 86(11), 1998.
[5] B. Lake, R. Salakhutdinov, J. Gross, and J. Tenenbaum. One shot learning of simple visual concepts. Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the Cognitive Science Society, 33, 2011.
[6] Image of a leopard-print sofa. https://rocknrollnerd.github.io/ml/2015/05/27/leopard-sofa.html.
Abstract: The Union for Reform Judaism’s North American Federation for Temple Youth (URJ NFTY) is a nonprofit organization serving North American Reform Jewish teens. The URJ and NFTY hold strong values tied to Jewish history that are utilized to discuss and advocate for political and social issues, and to mediate teens' relationships to Judaism. URJ NFTY offers teens year-round opportunities to convene, learn, and grow together while forging lasting relationships.
Over the past 10 years, NFTY and its related programming (particularly URJ owned
summer camps) have experienced a significant decrease in participation, causing a gradual decrease in revenue. As a result, the URJ made difficult decisions, including the closure of the URJ Kutz Camp, one of their oldest standing summer programs. Recent trend brought additional financial instability to the organization, causing employment terminations throughout the URJ and across all nineteen NFTY regions. With fewer leaders to guide teens and NFTY/camp alumni, it has become difficult for NFTY to recruit and train its next generation of leaders to advocate against injustice and to preserve the Jewish spirit.
Keywords: URJ, NFTY, URJ Kutz Camp, Judaism, North American Federation
References:
1. Arquilevich, Ruben. “With Joy, Gratitude & Love, an Update on Summer 2021.” Union for Reform Judaism, 4 Feb. 2021, urj.org/blog/joy-gratitude-love-update-summer-2021.
2. CampaignWire. “Rising Stars: 18 Members of America's Next Political Generation.”
Medium, The Campaigner, 23 Feb. 2016, medium.com/campaigner-2016/rising-stars-18-members-of-america-s-next-political-gene
3. ration-de18ab114afa#.raebue8kl. No. 14: Jeremy Cronig
4. Jacobs, Rick. “Beyond 2020: Upcoming Changes at the URJ.” Union for Reform Judaism, 1 Oct. 2020, urj.org/blog/beyond-2020-upcoming-changes-urj.
5. Jacobs, Rick. “Financials: 2019 URJ Annual Report.” URJ Annual Report, www.2019annualreport.urj.org/financials.
6. Jacobs, Rick. “Financials: URJ 2015 Annual Report.” Flipbook, media.urj.org/flipbook/index.html?page=24.
7. Jacobs, Rick. “Financials: URJ 2017 Annual Report.” Flipbook, media.urj.org/flipbook2017/index.html?page=39.
8. Jacobs, Rick. “Financials: URJ 2018 Annual Report.” URJ Annual Report, www.2018annualreport.urj.org/financials.
9. Jacobs, Rick. “Reform Jewish Movement Leadership Statement: ‘We Must All Expect
More from the President of the United States.’” Union for Reform Judaism, 3 Sept. 2019 urj.org/press-room/reform-jewish-movement-leadership-statement-we-must-all-expect-
more-president-united.
10. “Joe Biden's Plan to End Gun Violence: Joe Biden for President.” Joe Biden for President: Official Campaign Website, 12 Oct. 2020, joebiden.com/gunsafety/.
11. Levy, Maya. “Reimagining the Future of NFTY.” NFTY, 11 June 2020, nfty.org/future/
Abstract: Renewable, green energy is an important field of research amidst the 21st century energy crisis. Many of the researches around the world had been consistently looking for new energy sources, but not as much as on the efficient storage of energy produced from these eco-friendly sources. This research considers how to increase the capacitance through inserting various types of dielectrics to use them as a substantial tool for sustainable development.
The research focuses on calculating the capacitances of batteries with diverse dielectrics, differing the combinations and geometrical structure of capacitors in order to figure out the capacitances of batteries that can store more energy with better efficiency. Mathematical, physical and computational analysis were employed to figure out the capacitances and stored energy. MATLAB computer programming was used to calculate potential charge distribution within capacitors, the change in the capacitance and electric field of plate capacitors.
Using mathematical calculations, general expressions for computing the relationship between capacitance and insulation material characteristics, such as dielectric constant, plate dimensions, for n-number of plate capacitors were found. Also the relationship between capacitance, dielectric constant, capacitor dimensions for a thin-walled hollow cylinder was studied. In this work, we showed the influence of the multi-plate capacitor system taking into account the geometrical and types of combinations of the conducting plates.
Keywords: Green energy, capacitance, dielectric constant, conducting plates
References:
William D. Greason (1992). Electrostatic discharge in electronics. Research Studies Press. p. 48. ISBN 978-0-86380-136-5. Retrieved 4 December 2011.
Tipler, Paul; Mosca, Gene (2004). Physics for Scientists and Engineers (5th ed.). Macmillan. p. 752. ISBN 978-0-7167-0810-0
Massarini, A.; Kazimierczuk, M.K. (1997). "Self capacitance of inductors". IEEE Transactions on Power Electronics. 12 (4): 671–676. Bibcode:1997ITPE...12..671M. CiteSeerX 10.1.1.205.7356. doi:10.1109/63.602562: example of the use of the term 'self capacitance'.
Jackson, John David (1999). Classical Electrodynamic (3rd ed.). John Wiley & Sons. p. 43. ISBN 978-0-471-30932-1.
Maxwell, James (1873). "3". A treatise on electricity and magnetism. 1. Clarendon Press. p. 88ff.
"Capacitance : Charge as a Function of Voltage". Av8n.com. Retrieved 20 September 2010.
Fundamentals of Electronics. Volume 1b — Basic Electricity — Alternating Current. Bureau of Naval Personnel. 1965. p. 197.
Binns; Lawrenson (1973). Analysis and computation of electric and magnetic field problems. Pergamon Press. ISBN 978-0-08-016638-4.
Rawlins, A. D. (1985). "Note on the Capacitance of Two Closely Separated Spheres". IMA Journal of Applied Mathematics. 34 (1): 119–120. doi:10.1093/imamat/34.1.119.
Vainshtein, L. A. (1962). "Static boundary problems for a hollow cylinder of finite length. III Approximate formulas". Zh. Tekh. Fiz. 32: 1165–1173.
Abstract: In the modern age of politics, political candidates use Twitter to express their ideas and connect with voters. In 2018, Twitter was used by nearly every candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives throughout their political campaign. To analyze the language used on Twitter, we used Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count (LIWC) to analyze a text file (for each candidate) of all tweets from July 1, 2018 to November 6, 2018 to produce a descriptive output of language use in the months preceding the midterm elections. Consistent with past studies, it was predicted that candidates would use words characterized by negative affect on Twitter in order to connect with voters on an emotional level and to gain votes. In-depth analysis relating linguistic variables to vote count provided insight into how politicians used language on Twitter to improve their popularity. As theorized, candidates who used more words consisting of negative emotion obtained a greater number of votes than that of their counterparts. These findings provided support for the hypothesis that words of negative affect are deemed more impactful than neutral or positive words in politics, and that such language is highly correlated, regardless of party affiliation, with vote count. These findings provide a greater understanding of linguistics in the modern age of politics and provide insight into how increasingly prevalent social media platforms are factoring into politics.
Keywords: Political candidates, natural language, vote count, midterm election
References:
[1] Burgess, Jean, and Cornelius Puschmann. Twitter and Society. Edited by Katrin Weller, Axel Bruns, and Merja Mahrt. New York: Peter Lang, 2014.
[2] Kahn, J. H., Tobin, R. M., Massey, A. E., & Anderson, J. A. (2007). Measuring Emotional Expression with the Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count. The American Journal of Psychology,120(2), 263. doi:10.2307/20445398
[3] Larsson, A. O., & Moe, H. (2012). Studying Political Microblogging: Twitter Users in the 2010 Swedish Election Campaign. SAGE Journals,14(5), 729-747. doi:10.1177/1461444811422894
[4] Lau, R. R. (1982). Negativity in Political Perception. Political Behavior, 4(4), 353–377. doi: 10.1007/bf00986969
[5] Marres, N., & Weltevrede, E. (2013). Scraping The Social? Issues in real-time social research. Journal of Cultural Economy,6(3), 313-335. doi:10.1080/17530350.2013.772070
Abstract: Oxidation of the cells in the human organ causes tumor but information on the subcellular localization of oxidative molecules has not been known in detail. It is highly desirable to find the properties of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and oxidative reactions in biomembranes in human cells on a nano-scaled level for the proper mechanism of carcinogenesis.
In this project, hydrated Fullerenes(C60/C40-HyFn) and functionalized Carbon Nanotubes(CNTs) molecules were thermodynamically studied. Fullerenes and CNTs are considered as potential targeted nano-scaled compounds in the treatment of tumor cells to determine whether the molecules stabilize or destabilize the molecules. The Auto Optimize Tool in the computational software was used for each Carbon Nanotubes(CNTs) and hydrated Fullerene derivatives modeled in this project to determine its optimization energy. The Universal Force Field (UFF) option was selected for all the molecules modeled.
Keywords – Nanotubes(CNTs), Hydrated Fullerenes(C60/C40-HyFn), Auto Optimize Tool, Carcinogenesis
References
[1] http://www.chem.ucalgary.ca/courses/350/Carey5th/Ch07/ch7-0.html
[2] http://research.cm.utexas.edu/nbauld/teach/stereo.html
[3] Hider, R. C., Roy, S., Ma, Y. M., Kong, X. L., & Preston, J. (2011). The potential application of iron chelators for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Metallomics, 3(3), 239–249. doi: 10.1039/c0mt00087f
[4] Dusek, P., Schneider, S. A., & Aaseth, J. (2016). Iron chelation in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology, 38, 81–92. doi: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2016.03.010
[5] http://www.nanotechproject.org/cpi/products/radical-sponge-r-fullerene/
[6] http://www.nanomedjournal.com/article/S1549-9634(10)00300-X/fulltext
[7] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4z8Q0aUKuUU
[8] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6jCJXhusI2M
[9] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OX3nL_LoWJs
[10] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3542060/
[11] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hom11_tbQ-Q
[12] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ZEtS5qLOHs
[13] https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2011/jm/c0jm02020f#!divAbstract
Abstract: This project applies a new theory in the field of intergroup conflict known as "Gateway group theory," which posits that to decrease conflict between two groups, a third group with specific characteristics that appeal to both sides needs to be identified, enabling them to act as a medium. This group is known as a "Gateway group." With the background of the bitter digital divide and echo chambers plaguing the United States’ current political discourse, this paper sought to find the Gateway group between polar Democrats and Republicans on Twitter.
This project data mined and examined the shared “likes” of these two populations using originally developed code and definitional parameters. Then, the study analyzed the profiles of the authors of these liked Tweets to compile an aggregated Gateway group profile that can be used to find Gateway group individuals on Twitter who have the ability to decrease conflict between Democrats and Republicans. The study found that Gateway group members exist. They are a group of Moderate Democrats. Every post that was liked by both a Democrat and Republican was also tagged and analyzed for similarities in content. It was found that 55% of all posts referenced “Trump” and 92% of those votes had a negative sentiment. Additional similarities in content were found, for example a keen interest in elections and certain Democratic candidates. This project develops an effective methodology that can be applied to any conflict on Twitter to find the Gateway group for that conflict to decrease polarity between polar groups.
Keywords: Gateway group theory, Democrat and Republican, political discourse, Twitter
References:
Bessi, A. (2016). Personality traits and echo chambers on facebook. Computers in Human Behavior,65, 319-324. doi:10.1016/j.chb.2016.08.016
Demszky, D., Garg, N., Voigt, R., Zou, J., Shapiro, J., Gentzkow, M., & Jurafsky, D. (2019).
Gaertner, S. L., & Dovidio, J. F. (2012). The Common Ingroup Identity Model. Handbook of Theories of Social Psychology,2, 439-457. ttp://dx.doi.org/10.4135/9781446249222.n48
Gaertner, S. S., Dovidio, J. F., Anastasio, P. A., Bachman, B. A., & Rust, M. C. (1993). The Common Ingroup Identity Model: Recategorization and the Reduction of Intergroup Bias.
European Review of Social Psychology,4(1), 1-26. doi:https://doi.org/10.1080/14792779343000004. Goyal, S. (2005). Strong and Weak Links. Journal of the European Economic Association,
3(2/3), 608-616. Retrieved from http://www.jstor.org/stable/40005003.
Hornsey, M. J., & Hogg, M. A. (2000). Subgroup Relations: A Comparison of Mutual Intergroup Differentiation and Common Ingroup Identity Models of Prejudice Reduction. Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin,26(2), 242-256. doi:10.1177/0146167200264010
Pettigrew, T. F., Tropp, L. R., Wagner, U., & Christ, O. (2011). Recent advances in intergroup contact theory. International Journal of Intercultural Relations,(35), 271-280.
Zollo, F., Novak, P. K., Vicario, M. D., Bessi, A., Mozetič, I., Scala, A., . . . Quattrociocchi, W. (2015). Emotional Dynamics in the Age of Misinformation. Plos One,10(9). doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0138740
Abstract: Gifted children are people who are capable of high performance in cognitive, educational, scientific, creative and artistic fields compared to their peers. But there are also gifted children who have problems with cognitive, educational, social, emotional and behavioral development. They are called twice-exceptional children. Regarding these children, who have high talents and abilities while at the same time having disabilities, is an important issue for education professionals. The present study mainly aims to compare the executive functions profile of twice exceptional children with gifted ones.To this end, 30 twice-exceptional gifted children and 30 gifted children were selected from among elementary school students in district 3 of Isfahan, Iran. Then, the two groups administered The Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, Fourth Edition (WISC®-IV) for assessment of the Tower Test (NEPSY) to evaluate executive functions. The research results showed that the profile and average executive function of the twice-exceptional children were lower than those of gifted children in the Tower test (NEPSY). Therefore, it is suggested to consider executive functions (planning, organization, time management, problem solving, etc.) in identifying and educating these children.
Keywords: Gifted children, twice-exceptional children, executive function
References:
[1] Dawson,P & Guara,R .(2018). Executive Skills in Children and Adolescents Third Edition: A practical Guide to Assessment and Intervention.
[2] Guilford Press Major, J. (2017). A Change Plan for Underachieving Gifted Children (Doctoral dissertation). Retrieved from https://digital commons.nl.edu/diss/252. Pfeiffer, S. I. (2015).
[3] Gifted students with a coexisting disability: The twice exceptional. Estudos de Psicologia (Campinas), 32 (4), 717-727.
[4] Sterenberg,R.J & Javin,L & Grigorenko,E.L. (2011) Exploration in Giftedness . Cambridge University Press
Abstract: There have been numerous different kinds of data such as stock prices and interest rates observed and gathered in the past. The sequential nature of these data require us to account for the dynamic nature using special statistical skill and techniques. Time series analysis provide the appropriate methods necessary in order to analyze sequential data.
It may be problematic to picture the essential, underlying trend of the data if the time series has a lot of noise. To distinguish the signal and the noise from each other, various linear and nonlinear smoothers must be applied.
This paper collected a century’s worth of P/E ratio data and used the static distribution to map out the overall trend of the P/E ratio in terms of its return period. Also, the data was plotted in Matlab, and multiple fitting models were tested out to see which one fit the data the best. The P/E ratio was chosen due to its significance in the evaluation of stocks’ values, and the static distribution due to its ability to incorporate rapidly fluctuating data into statistical analysis.
Keywords – Multiple fitting models, P/E ratio, statistical analysis, lnear and nonlinear smoothers
References
[1] Peres, D. J.; Cancelliere, A. (2016-10-01). "Estimating return period of landslide triggering by Monte Carlo simulation". Journal of Hydrology. Flash floods, hydro-geomorphic response and risk management. 541: 256–271.
[2] Anonymous (2014-11-07). "Flood Estimation Handbook". UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology. Retrieved 2019-12-21.
[3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gumbel_distribution
[4] ASCE, Task Committee on Hydrology Handbook of Management Group D of (1996). Hydrology Handbook | Books. doi:10.1061/9780784401385. ISBN 978-0-7844-0138-5. doi:10.1016/j.jhydrol.2016.03.036.
Abstract: In our modern world, the concept of multiculturalism is not only prevalent but also encouraged. To have people from a diversity of backgrounds coexisting in one single area was an unfathomable concept nearly a century ago. Multiculturalism at its root refers to an amalgamation of different cultures and a single bounded territory; the inhabitants are protected by right to practice and enact on their views—regardless of whether they are in line with those of the majority. Everyone makes up a part of the whole. This paper discussed the effects of political and geographical isolation and cultural diversity in different eras and countries, as well as the details of successful heterogenous makeup of America together with the changes in the population of the United States and the impact of multiculturalism on the economy. The “ethnic minority” and mixed-race population is increasing every year in America, along with the increase in bilingual populations. Finally, this research states the reasons why diversity makes us smarter and more effective: racially diverse groups share information better, diversity enhances creativity, different points of views leads to broader thinking, having different points of views gives you new platforms and tactics of analyzing/solving a problem, and diversity encourages you to push the boundaries and reconsider your perception.
Keywords – Multiculturalism, cultural diversity, political and geographical aspects, and economic growth
Introduction: The United States, in particular, is a paradigm of a multicultural nation. Home to millions of immigrants, the US serves as a beacon of potential. Since the second half of the twentieth century, multiculturalism has quickly risen among various nations. Naturally, debates have also arisen regarding the productivity of such a concept; some believe there are various negatives to the rise of multiculturalism. But, research has revealed that diversity and co-existence can actually give rise to many positive events within a nation. According to Vincent Parillo, the diverse, heterogeneous makeup of the US is steadfast and integral to the nation. As a nation’s strength lies in its citizens and inhabitants, the US serves as a model for the true power of the people. The diversity of the US constitutes a large part of the American identity; from inception to modern times immigrants have contributed largely to the country’s evolution.
Some counter that diversity is a product of economic development rather than a contributor, that multicultural populations are attracted to certain locations because of affluence or gained economic success. An important new study by economists Quamrul Ashraf of Williams College and Oded Galor of Brown University, "Cultural Diversity, Geographical Isolation and the Origin of the Wealth of Nations," was recently released by the National Bureau of Economic Research. The paper carefully follows the role of geographic isolation, proximity, and cultural exchange in regard to economic development—spanning from pre-industrial times to the modern era. The study shows that "the interplay between cultural assimilation and cultural diffusion have played a significant role in giving rise to differential patterns of economic development across the globe." Diversity in fact gives way to economic growth whereas homogeneity enacts the opposite effect.
During the formative years of the United States’ industrialization, immigrants contributed greatly to the workforce. They helped create transportation systems, cities, and labor unions. Similarly, immigrants now also strengthen American economy. The United States is influential on the world stage due to the immigrants who have devoted themselves to advancement and the potential to be greater. They have brought billions of dollars with them — boosting the nation’s economy via business, consumerism, and labor.
References
[1] Clayton-Pedersen and Musil, 2008
[2]https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/life-bilingual/201809/the-amazing-rise-bilingualism-in-the-united-states
[3] “Prosperity 2050.” Center for American Progress, 2011
[4] “Current Population Survey, 1968 through 2015”, Annual Social and Economic Supplements, U.S. Census Bureau, 2015
[5]“Multiculturalism: America's Competitive Advantage.” The Atlantic, Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, 2016, www.theatlantic.com/sponsored/morgan-stanley-wealth-management-2016/multiculturalism-americas-competitive-advantage/1007/.
[6] https://www.nielsen.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2019/04/the-multicultural-edge-rising-super-consumers-march-2015.pdf
Abstract: This study is designed to detect the expression levels of heat shock protein 72 in the forebrain, midbrain, hindbrain, and ventricles of T. scripta, when subjected to anoxia and warm and cold temperatures for various periods of time. Previous studies have shown that HSP72 is induced early in anoxia, increasing for 8 hours but then falling to normoxic levels by 12 hours of anoxia showing that HSP72 may play a key role in the initial transition to the anoxic state (Milton and Prentice 2007). This study examined the brain in sections, rather than the previous whole brain.
Keywords – Neuroprotection, temperature, oxygen stress, turtles, and Trachemys scripta
Introduction: The freshwater turtle, Trachemys scripta, has a unique ability to survive without oxygen for prolonged periods of time. Unlike a vast majority of vertebrates that die after a few minutes of being deprived of molecular oxygen (anoxia), anoxia- tolerant vertebrates can survive from hours to weeks (Stecyk et al., 2007). Anoxia followed by reoxygenation produces a rapid transient increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) that destroys cells and its contents (Hashimoto et al. 2003). The mammalian brain is susceptible to ROS; however T. scripta may employ protective mechanisms to survive anoxia, thus preventing ROS damage. Not only is brain function protected, but heart function is, too. One protective mechanism is the over expression of heat shock proteins (HSPs). HSPs are overexpressed when cells are stressed, acting as a molecular chaperone. The brains and hearts of T. scripta were exposed to anoxia at 21°C, normoxia at 5°C, and anoxia at 5°C, with normoxia at 21°C as the control group. Exposure times ranged from 1.5 hours to 2 weeks. Each sample, weighing at least 200mg, was homogenized and the proteins were extracted. Protein assays were performed on the extracts to determine the respective concentrations. Western blots were done to detect the presence of heat shock protein 72. Results are expressed as ±SD.
References
[1] Hashimoto, T., Yonetani, M., Nakamura, H. 2003. Selective brain hypothermia protects against hypoxic- ischemic injury in newborn rats by reducing hydroxyl radical production. Kobe J. Med. Sci. 49(4), 83-91.
[2] Milton, S.L., Prentice, H.M. 2007. Beyond anoxia: The physiology of the metabolic downregulation and recovery in the anoxia- tolerant turtle. Comp. Biochem. Physiol. A 147, 277- 290.
Stecyk, J.A.W., Stensløkken, K.-O., Nilsson, G.E., Farrell, A.P. 2007.
[3] Adenosine does not save the heart of anoxia- tolerant vertebrates
during prolonged oxygen deprivation. Comp. Biochem. Physiol. A
147, 961- 973.
Abstract – Thyroglobulin is a protein located in the thyroid and controls hormone production. These hormones work to modulate behavior, central nervous system function, and energy metabolism in vertebrates (Holzer et al., 2016). In addition, it is a dimeric glycoprotein with a molecular mass of 660 kDa. Specifically, bovine thyroglobulin is heavily decorated with alpha-gal and can be used to diagnose the red meat allergy (Apostolovic et al., 2017). For these reasons, the structure of bovine thyroglobulin is crucial to find and can lead to new information about the relationship between alpha-gal and the IgE antibodies.
Keywords – bovine thyroglobulin, alpha-gal, IgE antibodies
Introduction: Alpha-gal, an oligosaccharide, is a major blood group substance in mammals such as cattle and pigs. Studies strongly suggest that bites from the Lone Star Tick Amblyomma americanum infect the human host with the carbohydrate alpha-gal (Commins & Platts-Mills, 2013). After some time, when beef or another red meat is consumed, an immune response is initiated by the IgE antibodies, that results in an immediate allergic reaction characterized by symptoms of anaphylaxis (Sim et al., 2017). Currently, the structure of bovine thyroglobulin is unresolved. The aim of this research was to determine the molecular structure of bovine thyroglobulin using Macromolecular crystallography (MX) and Small Angle X-ray Scattering (SAXS). With MX, the aim was to test whether lysozyme is a nucleation inducing reagent of thyroglobulin, and with SAXS, the aims were to obtain a low-resolution image of the structure of bovine thyroglobulin and discover the bead model of bovine thyroglobulin. It was hypothesized that lysozyme will aid in the crystallization in thyroglobulin and that the bead model will be a complex globular structure containing alpha and beta helices, factoring inflexibility.
References
Apostolovic, D., Krstic, M., Mihailovic, J., Starkhammar, M., Velickovic, T. C., Hamsten, C., & van Hage, M. (2017). Peptidomics of an in vitro digested α-Gal carrying protein revealed IgE-reactive peptides. Scientific reports, 7(1), 5201.
Benkert, P., Biasini, M., Schwede, T. Toward the estimation of the absolute quality of individual protein structure models. Bioinformatics 27, 343-350 (2011).
Bertoni, M., Kiefer, F., Biasini, M., Bordoli, L., Schwede, T. Modeling protein quaternary structure of homo- and hetero-oligomers beyond binary interactions by homology. Scientific Reports 7 (2017).
Biosis. (2013). PRIMUS (WINDOWS ONLY). Retrieved from http://www.bioisis.net/tutorial/4 http://iramis.cea.fr/Phocea/Vie_des_labos/Ast/ast_sstechnique.php?id_ast=1065
Bruno Di Jeso, Peter Arvan; Thyroglobulin From Molecular and Cellular Biology to Clinical Endocrinology, Endocrine Reviews, Volume 37, Issue 1, 1 February 2016, Pages 2–36, https://doi.org/10.1210/er.2015-1090
Commins, S. P., & Platts-Mills, T. E. (2013). Delayed anaphylaxis to red meat in patients with IgE specific for galactose alpha-1,3-galactose (alpha-gal). Current Allergy And Asthma Reports, 13(1), 72-77. doi:10.1007/s11882-012-0315-y
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Gentile, F., Salvatore, G., & Salvatore, G. (1995). Molecular heterogeneity of covalently-linked bovine thyroglobulin dimers. Rendiconti Lincei, 6(2), 165. Holzer, G., Lorin, T., Gillet, B., Hughes, S., Tohme, M., Laudet, V., & ... Deleage, G. (n.d). Thyroglobulin Represents a Novel Molecular Architecture of Vertebrates. Journal Of Biological Chemistry, 291(32), 16553-+.
Jakoby, W. B., Labaw, L., Edelhoch, H., Pastan, I., & Rall, J. E. (1966). Thyroglobulin: Evidence for Crystallization and Association. Science, 153(3744), 1671-1672. doi:10.1126/science.153.3744.1671
Leszczyszyn, O., Hydrodynamic Radius. (2018, December 11). Retrieved from https://www.materials-talks.com/blog/2012/11/15/size-matters-rh-versus-rg/
Abstract: This paper addresses the problem of addiction in society. We focus on the United States specifically and limit our model to the following drugs: nicotine, marijuana, prescription drugs, alcohol. The problem is to create a model that can accurately predict the spread of nicotine. This is followed by the creation of a model that can be applied to different drugs with inputs depending on an individual's income, education level, and race.
From the information above, we conclude that the most dangerous substances are: Tobacco, Opioid-based Unprescribed Painkillers, and Alcohol, while the least dangerous is marijuana. This is deduced from a combination of its health impacts, explicit and implicit costs of using. While marijuana is the least dangerous according to our model, it still possesses significant dangers to productivity, safety, and cognitive function.
Our models functioned on several assumptions. We assumed that nationwide trends are directly applicable to all individual populations, which may not be the case. A study can be conducted to provide evidence of drug usage in specific areas across the country in order to pinpoint our data. The spread of nicotine abuse as well as the abuse of other drugs is on the rise throughout the country. This is especially alarming in the younger generation as model 2 suggests. The amount of high school seniors predicted to be using these substances indicates a societal issue that needs to be addressed in order to prevent damage to today's youth and lower these numbers for later generations. The impact of these drugs, while varied between them, signifies how abuse can quickly lead to poverty and strain on the economy that must support them.
Keywords: Addictive substances, Opioid-based Unprescribed Painkillers, Computer Modeling
Introduction: The model developed for part 1 details how the predicted growth of nicotine usage is anticipated to level off in the future as it currently is following a pattern of logistic growth. We use information provided to graph the function from 2011 to 2018. According to the data from the table, we create a logistic function (Figure 2) y = (15.1173)/(1+1111.39e^(-2.15689x)) by calculator. In order to minimize the number for y, we use 1 for 2011, 2 for 2012, 3 for 2013, and so on. Then, we plug 29 as the corresponding number for 2029 to x to find the percentage of high school students who vape for the next 10 years, which is 15.1173 percent. This number may not be correct because there is a rising number of events created dedicate to educate students to stop/prevent them from vaping.
An alteration in this model that could more accurately depict the expansion of vaping could include increased education about its dangers which would slow its growth. As seen in Figure 1, the model closely follows the data found on the high school vaping data provided in the question. The data would follow a line of best fit calculated with a logistic regression formula because the percent of users must reach a limit as it cannot exceed 100%. Figure 3 demonstrates the age demographics of the United States which we use to determine how the percentage of growth translates into sheer numbers in terms of age. For example, if 15% of individuals use nicotine for a given year, we can multiply this by the number of individuals in their age groups and get how many people use nicotine.
References
Abstract: In 2003, Hon Lik, a Chinese pharmacist and inventor, created what would become the first commercially successful e-cigarette. Hon Lik’s invention quickly swept across the continent, gaining popularity and ultimately being introduced to the European market in April 2006. From Europe, it was a quick hop across the pond to the United States. This new, “safe” form of smoking quickly spread throughout the states. This wave quickly formed a new, highly profitable industry. With such a rapid rise to popularity, governing bodies such as the Food and Drug Administration and Federal Trade Commission have not yet regulated this industry effectively. Although, steps are being taken to do so, the damage has been done. The vaping industry has successfully targeted the youth population, creating high rates of teen and adolescent addiction. Similar to the vaping epidemic plaguing the United States, in 2011, there were approximately 20.6 million people in the United States over the age of 12 with an addiction ranging from alcohol to inhalants and hallucinogens. This number has only grown in recent years. This is why it is paramount to be able to model and predict which communities are most at risk and assess the true cost of addiction. Through complex mathematical modelling and analysis, the ability to assess the prevalence and impact of alcohol, nicotine, marijuana, and nonprescription drugs is available today.
Keywords: Substance abuse, nonfinancial and financial impacts, alcohol, marijuana, and tobacco.
Introduction: While the United States is currently experiencing an opioid epidemic with over 72,000 people dying each year from overdoses, there have also been increases in the use of other drugs such as nicotine, marijuana, and alcohol throughout the country. This is especially concerning due to an increasing proportion of the demographic is middle schoolers and high schoolers. Moreover, this is the first time in the history of the United States that the leading cause of death is opioid overdose (it surpassed vehicle crashes). It is important to understand the factors that lead individuals to use these substances so that the spread can be effectively combatted.
This section addresses the problem of addiction in society. We focus on the United States specifically and limit our model to the following drugs: nicotine, marijuana, prescription drugs, alcohol.
The problem is to create a model that can accurately predict the spread of nicotine. This is followed by the creation of a model that can be applied to different drugs with inputs depending on an individual's income, education level, and race. These factors were chosen because we determined them to be the most significant factors in terms of influencing people to do drugs. We would have also liked to include calculations involving environmental factors such as family use and ease of access but due to time and calculating restraints, we omitted these variables.
Because of the advancement in technology, people try to find an alternative for smoking cigarettes. They found this alternative in vaping. As a result, cigarette sales are reaching an all-time low (as shown in the graph below). Overall, this indicates that the growth of vaping will more than replace the decreasing usage of cigarettes.
Our models functioned on several assumptions. We assumed that nationwide trends are directly applicable to all individual populations, which may not be the case. A study can be conducted to provide evidence of drug usage in specific areas across the country in order to pinpoint our data.
The spread of nicotine abuse as well as the abuse of other drugs is on the rise throughout the country. This is especially alarming in the younger generation as model 2 suggests. The amount of high school seniors predicted to be using these substances indicates a societal issue that needs to be addressed in order to prevent damage to today's youth and lower these numbers for later generations. The impact of these drugs, while varied between them, signifies how abuse can quickly lead to poverty and strain on the economy that must support them.
References
Abstract: Assessment of both water quality and quantity pose a great challenge to those studying the effects of anthropogenic activities on bodies of water. Eutrophication created by the increased concentration of nutrients including nitrates and phosphates has been known to contribute to the development of both toxic algal blooms, which serve as limiting factors in the ecosystems of the water, rendering it useless for consumption.1,2 Another common development is the buildup of suspended sediments (SS/TSS), contributing to the anoxic conditions characterizing environmental hypoxia.3 Because current methods for the assessment of the presence of such issues rely upon tedious and costly methods, a timely and cost-efficient method is desirable for application to the practice.4 This research relies upon analysis of the inherent optical properties of chlorophyll and sedimentation present within the bodies of water in question, achieved through analysis of the reflectance values of the red and blue bands from Landsat satellite images of five bodies of water. 5 The analysis, performed using Geographic Information System ArcMap, allows for determination of the values that attest to changes in surface area, turbidity, and eutrophication. The trends in the data hold consistency with the natural occurrences surrounding the bodies of water associated with the three parameters outlined above, supporting usage of remote sensing for qualitative and quantitative analysis of water.
Introduction: Lakes are popular hosts of environmental problems as a result of anthropogenic activities. For the majority of these lakes, causes of these problems often involve sediment loading or nutrient enrichment, also known as eutrophication.1 Eutrophication is also the cause of algal bloom in water. Both eutrophication and algal bloom are a natural phenomenon, but human activities may accelerate them, which can cause harm in terrestrial ecosystems. In fact, eutrophication and harmful algal blooms are the leading source of impairment of water quality in many lakes around the world.2 Specifically, human-derived sources due to industrialization, urbanization, or agricultural wastes due to the amount of excess nutrient that these sources then load onto their local freshwater bodies. Anthropogenic activities change the amount of Nitrogen and Phosphate - both of which are nutrients essential to algal growth - present in water. For instance, sewage, agricultural, and household discharges often contain large quantities of P minerals.3 Harmful algal blooms may cause anoxic conditions, which is the depletion of oxygen in water. Such conditions are especially dominated by cyanobacteria, which is a blue alga that produces cyanotoxins and makes lake water toxic, causing wildlife deaths and seafood poisoning in humans.4
Traditional methods to measure water quality parameters like algal blooms involves field surveying techniques while measuring suspended solids involves the filtration technique.Unlike the other methods, studies show that satellite remote sensing is more cost-effective, economic, and ideal for acquiring spatial data from lakes with large surface areas7 like the ones that will be investigated. For the purpose of this study, there are two other water quality parameters measured, besides the quantity factor with surface area. One is the chlorophyll, which will indicate the severity of algal bloom, and the other is total suspended solids, as a measure of water turbidity. The Inherent Optical Property (IOP) - which refers to absorption and scattering properties of underwater contents - of chlorophyll and suspended solids were used to determine algal and sediment presence. And because of the optical properties of chlorophyll and suspended solids in water, one can use commercially available optical instruments to measure their respective concentrations.7 This can be applied to satellite data because of the way in which satellite sensors collects the intensity of light reflected. And since satellites measure reflectance values in different intervals of the electromagnetic spectrum, the focus will be placed on reflectance values on certain intervals - also known as band values - in this paper. In summary, a lower reflectance value of blue band correlates to a higher concentration of sediments. As a lower reflectance value of the red band would suggest a higher presence of chlorophyll.
In this study, two lakes across the world are analyzed, and each is chosen for the significance of their impact on local livelihood. The five lakes investigated are Lake Kasumigaura of Japan and Lake Maggiore of Europe.
References
[1] Smith, V., Tilman, G., & Nekola, J. (1999). Eutrophication: Impacts of excess nutrient inputs on freshwater, marine, and terrestrial ecosystems. Environmental Pollution,100( 1-3), 179-196. doi:10.1016/s0269-7491(99)00091-3 12
[2] Chislock, M.F.; Doster, E.; Zitomer, R.A.; Wilson, A.E. (2013)."Eutrophication: Causes, Consequences, and Controls in Aquatic Ecosystems". Nature Education Knowledge. 4 (4): 10. Retrieved 10 March 2018.
[3] Anderson, D. M., Glibert, P. M., & Burkholder, J. M. (2002). “Harmful algal blooms and eutrophication: Nutrient sources, composition, and consequences.” Estuaries,25(4), 704-726. doi:10.1007/bf02804901
Abstract: Racism is one of the important social problems in the United States that must be addressed. Racism and its consequences are well highlighted in popular culture, including movies and shows, to further emphasize the effect of racism. This paper will discuss institutional racism and how it is demonstrated in the context of the judicial and prison system through an analysis of a show called Orange is the New Black. From analyzing one of the characters, Poussey, and her death, this research will discuss different ways racism could be manifested and the different forms of racism in an institution. This paper will also discuss the extreme outcome of racism in our society – death.
Introduction: Racism, quite literally, kills. In the United States, racism is ubiquitous and stems from the legacy of race-based slavery. One area where racism is particularly salient is in the criminal justice system. Despite the constitutional promise of equal protection under the law, racist policies such as the War on Drugs have led to laws that disproportionately affect Black people such as severe penalties for drug use and possession, mandatory minimums, life sentences, and three strikes laws [1]. These policies are examples of institutional racism. Institutional racism is racism embedded in political and social structures, resulting in disadvantages for minorities based on socially assigned race [2]. On the other hand, personally mediated racism describes the prejudice and discrimination that occurs between people of different races [2]. Importantly, personally mediated racism upholds the social norms that prevent institutional racism from being eradicated. In the Netflix series Orange is the New Black, the death of a Poussey Washington, a young Black female inmate, demonstrates how personally mediated and institutional racism work together to allow her death to happen while simultaneously protecting the white correctional officers from being held responsible.
References
Abstract: Ring theory is most widely known as a branch of pure mathematics under the field of abstract algebra. Some of the uses of Ring Theory in the modern world involve cryptography, computer vision, and image segmentation. As of now, finite cyclic rings have been incorporated into performing image segmentations for the Mean Shift Iterative Algorithm. This paper analyzes the Mean Shift Iterative Algorithm and devises an improved algorithm and stopping criterion using finite cyclic rings and matrices in Ring Theory that perform high-quality image segmentations for images that can be used in computer vision and possibly the segmentation(s) of grayscale (d = 1), colored (d = 3), and multispectral (d ≥ 3) images.
Keywords: ring theory, Mean Shift, and Iterative Algorithm
Introduction: Based on the concepts of Group Theory and the field of abstract algebra, Ring Theory is a concept where a “ring” is a set of elements with two binary factors: addition and multiplication. To subtract within a ring would essentially mean to add an element to its additive inverse. Likewise, to divide would mean to multiply an element by its multiplicative inverse. A ring also satisfies the following axioms:
An example of a ring includes the set of real polynomials. Within this ring, you can freely add, subtract, and multiply one polynomial, essentially an element within the ring, to get another polynomial - another element. The additive identity is presented as zero. Since zero is a constant polynomial, it is also considered to be an element in the ring of real polynomials. The multiplicative identity is presented as one. Since multiplication is always commutative among all polynomials, the ring of real polynomials is deduced as a commutative ring with an identity element.
Some rings are finite, meaning that the amount and type of elements may be limited. Some rings may not have the additive identity zero or the multiplicative identity one. Upon adding, subtracting, or multiplying two even numbers, the result is always another even number. The value of 1 does not fall within the set of even numbers. Therefore, the set of even integers does not have the multiplicative identity of one - and is only a commutative ring. Image segmentation is the practice of breaking a picture up into pixels and assigning each pixel a value based on a given class. The purpose of image segmentation is to partition images into more meaningful, easy to examine, sections. The segmentation of images is primarily applied to image editing/compression, as well as the recognition of certain objects or another relevant aspects of a taken image. The Mean Shift Iterative Algorithm uses finite cyclic rings to detect specific features of an image (i.e. eyes of a face, abnormalities in an MRI scan of a heart, tumors in a brain) and the probability of there being a specific part of an image. A finite cyclic ring is any ring where the elements derive from a single element (hence, they are limited in regards to what elements may be present within the ring and, when brought back within range of said ring, the elements repeat in a cycle).
A primary factor in determining the stopping criteria for a segmentation algorithm is the entropy, or number of consistent microscopic configurations, of an image. The number of consistent microscopic configurations is significant to constructing a stopping criterion for an algorithm for image segmentation because while images may interchangeably be weakly and strongly equivalents, images that are strongly equivalent are not weakly equivalent. Images are defined in a finite cyclic ring when the Mean Shift Iterative Algorithm is used for image segmentation. However, an established stopping criterion for the Mean Shift Iterative Algorithm has not been formulated thus far; instead, the entropy formula has been in place as the stopping criterion for Mean Shift for stability purposes.
Please email paper@jyem.org the summarized paper.
Abstract: The belief that increasing years of education guarantees economic success has yet to be proven true even if more schooling is associated with a higher income. Attaining an education is not the only factor that contributes to individual success because there are other critical factors, such as one’s cognitive skills, influence of families and peers, and proper health and nutrition. The quality of educational programs and the discrepancy in workers' skills and income levels become significantly noticeable when people fully integrate into the labor force.
Based on the current research on "quality education" and its effect on the economic growth of a country, this paper shows how the education reform is necessary. Instead of solely focusing on education attainment, more policies to improve education quality in developing countries is imperative. The quality of education should be measured by cognitive skills which have robust correlations with the GDP per capita growth as well as individual earning rates. Stronger accountability systems, local autonomy of schools, and incorporating choice and competition in schools are all effective policies that can improve the overall incentives in schools to improve the quality of education in developing countries.
Introduction: The belief that increasing years of education guarantees economic success has yet to be proven true even if more schooling is associated with a higher income [1]. Attaining an education is not the only factor that contributes to individual success because there are other critical factors, such as one’s cognitive skills, influence of families and peers, and proper health and nutrition. The quality of educational programs and the discrepancy in workers' skills and income levels become significantly noticeable when people fully integrate into the labor force [2].
UNESCO's “Education for All” initiative and the “Millennium Development Goals” have focused on raising the population’s schooling levels to increase education attainment[1]. However, this approach is flawed for mainly four reasons. First, many countries in the past that have expanded schooling opportunities have not seen improvements in their economy. Second, there are many differences between developed and developing countries, aside from schooling levels within their respective population. In addition, some developing countries may not have established, effective educational policies and programs. Lastly, even if effective programs and policies are in place, the approach in implementing these programs may be ineffective, and therefore may not result in the anticipated outcomes. [1] Research on the economic impact of schools tends to ignore these differences that exist between developing and developed countries, which can distort education and economic outcomes.
Therefore, rather than focusing on educational attainment and increased years of schooling, assessment of success should measure knowledge or cognitive skills especially in an international context [2].These quality differences are crucial and important in recognizing the reasons for discrepancies in education, skills, and individual earnings.
Educational quality is a driving factor in the individual earnings and overall economic growth of a country. [1] Currently, there is a lack of effective policies that can substantially increase cognitive skills, but evidence suggests that changing school policies and incentives can have a positive impact on the economic outcome. Overall, educational quality, which has significant effects on economic growth, is much worse in developing countries and cannot be solved with increase years of schooling alone. To effectively solve this problem, major institutional changes would be required.
Based on the current research on "quality education" and its effect on the economic growth of a country, education reform is necessary. Instead of solely focusing on education attainment, more policies to improve education quality in developing countries is imperative. The quality of education should be measured by cognitive skills which have robust correlations with the GDP per capita growth as well as individual earning rates. Stronger accountability systems, local autonomy of schools, and incorporating choice and competition in schools are all effective policies that can improve the overall incentives in schools to improve the quality of education in developing countries.
References
[1] https://www.brookings.edu/articles/unequal-opportunity-race-and-education/
[2] https://inequality.stanford.edu/sites/default/files/Pathways_SOTU_2017_education.pdf
[3] https://www.nap.edu/read/10256/chapter/6#71
[4] https://news.stanford.edu/2017/06/16/report-finds-significant-racial-ethnic-disparities/
[5] https://www.brookings.edu/research/race-gaps-in-sat-scores-highlight-inequality-and-hinder-upward-mobility/
[6] https://www.brookings.edu/research/the-importance-of-high-quality-general-education-for-students-in-special-education/
Please email paper@jyem.org the summarized paper.
Due to anthropogenic sources such as urbanization, and industrialized agriculture a substantial quantity of contaminants have been discharged into the Forge River’s ecosystem. Specifically in the past decades, the Forge River has been exposed to duck farms, effluent discharge, septic system leachate, stormwater runoff, loss of wetlands, over-development, and shoreline hardening (Suffolk County Government, 2016). Due to the high groundwater table in close proximity to the Forge River, the groundwater and septic contamination has consequently impacted the sediments present in the area (Brownawell,. Et al, 2009). Additionally, manufacturing, milling, and material transportation occured on the Forge River which can explain the result of previous analyses that demonstrated that sediment qualities are unsuitable for the Forge River (Swanson et al., 2010). To determine the concentrations of heavy metals all sediments samples were sifted using a 38 micron sized sieve to achieve a consistent particle size throughout the sediment samples. The SRX beamline was used to collect data at the NSLS II in Brookhaven National Laboratory, which was analyzed with PyXRF. Results of this study concluded that heavy metals such as As, Co, Cu, Fe, Ga, Mn, Ti, V, and Zn were present throughout the top and bottom sediments of the river and some were particularly concentrated at the mouth of the river. Overall, bottom sediments had higher relative counts of heavy metals. This may have been attributed to marine traffic and pollutants being present from before dredging occurred in 2006 to decrease harmful contaminants (Swanson et al., 2010), however a point source cannot be determined without a XANES analysis.
Abstract: Gender, labor and race historians have made a strong case for space as a social construct. A Foucauldian framework of analysis of space has allowed historians to reveal histories of the subaltern, which are otherwise often ignored. Interactions in space are social relations, as individuals relate to the space around them in response to other individuals and societal norms. Even so, the materiality of space cannot be understated, as the built space impacts how those interactions are produced and unfold. The consideration of the materiality of space as an additional layer to social space, make spatial history a more effective and illuminating methodological approach.
Introduction: lthough historian Leif Jerram has criticized historians for overusing imagined space, stating that space is the material physicality of location, gender, labour, and race, historians have used space as a social construct to successfully unearth otherwise hidden transcripts of power relations and resistance [1]. Rather than looking at ‘imagined space’ as in competition with ‘built space,’ a layered definition of space must be adopted. As Sewell has argued, space is imagined, experienced, and built [2]. Discursive imagined space can be defined as the ways in which individuals understand their environment, while experienced space is the ‘material interactions between people and their environment.’[2] Finally, the built environment can be defined as the physical structures that occupy spaces [2]. These overlapping layers must be examined through a social constructivist Foucauldian lens, as space is fundamentally interlinked with the production and reproduction of ‘economic, political, and cultural power,’ and the reaction of those in power and of the subaltern to that power [3]. This relationship of space with power means that ‘spatial relations are social relations’ [4]. The extent to which spatial theory has effectively been applied by labour, gender, and race relations historians must be examined to establish its use in the discipline of history.
References
[1] Jerram, Leif. “Space: A Useless Historical Category for Historical Analysis.” History and Theory 52 (2013) p. 400-419.
[2] Sewell in R. Percy, ‘Picket Lines and Parades: Labour and Urban Space in Early Twentieth-Century London and Chicago’, Urban History, 41/4 (2013), p. 457.
[3] Percy, Ruth. “Picket Lines and Parades: Labour and Urban Space in Early Twentieth-Century London and Chicago.” Urban History 41 (2014): 456-477.
[4] Lefebvre, Henri. “Space: Social Product and Use Value.” In State, Space, World: Selected Essays, edited by N. Brenner and S. Elden, translated by J. W. Freiberg, 185-195. Minneapolis: University of Minnesota Press, 2009.
[5] Herod, Andrew. “From a Geography of Labor to a Labor Geography: Labor’s Spatial Fix and the Geography of Capitalism.” Antipode 29 (1997): 1-31.
[6] Remus, Emily A. Remus, Tippling Ladies and the Making of Consumer Culture: Gender and Public Space in Fin-de-Siècle Chicago (2014).
[7] R. Kelley, “‘We are not what we seem’: Rethinking black working-class opposition in the Jim Crow South” (1993) p. 99.
[8] Kruse, Kevin M. “The Politics of Race and Public Space: Desegregation, Privatization, and the Tax Revolt in America.” Journal of Urban History 31 (2005): 610-633.
[9] Butler, J. 'Bodies in Alliance and the Politics of the Street' http://eipcp.net/transversal/1011/butler/en.
Abstract: In this paper, a model created to determine the likelihood of an individual to use a given substance takes into account the race, education level, and income of an individual. Initially environment was intended to be included in the model, but it was not able to effectively integrated into the model. For the three chosen factors, data was collected from various sources for how each one correlates with the use of nicotine, alcohol, marijuana, and un-prescribed opioids. The followings were assumed: First, race, income, and education levels are the only variables that affect substance abuse tendencies, and there is no correlation between the variables. Education is the most important factor, followed by income, and lastly race. The justification for this comes from our research. Second, it is assumed the high school used in the example model of Question 2 follows the demographic averages of the city of Los Angeles. Los Angeles was used because of its high socioeconomic diversity, ethnic diversity, and regional diversity within the city. Lastly, it is assumed that gender plays a negligible role in the probability of substance abuse, which has been confirmed by the National Institute of Health in many circumstances.
Introduction: Using the model to predict the amount of substance abuse in a senior class of 300 located in a high school in Los Angeles, California. The race distribution in Los Angeles is 47.7% latino, 27.8% white, 13.5% Asian, and 8.3% African American. We are assuming that this distribution holds true for the senior class. All of the students in the sample would fall under the “Some High School” education level. Roughly, the income distribution in Los Angeles for the brackets we chose is 40%, 8%, 12%, 10%, and 30%. To apply these statistics to the class of 300, each student is randomly assigned a race and income, and they all have the same education level. Race and income are not completely independent of each other, but for this model we assume there are no correlations.
To determine what drugs each kid would use, each individual would be subjected to a probability test from each of his demographic percentages. For example, all Asian students in the high school with an income range of $48,000-$60,000 would have a 22.35% chance of using nicotine (the weighted mean of the students’ race, education level, and income percentages). This number is calculated from the code we created that can be found in the appendix. This process would be completed for each unique combination of demographics, and then the number of students for each unique demographic would be multiplied by each unique percentage (more information about how we calculate can be found below). If there were 10 Asian kids with an income range of $48,000-$60,000 then the model predicts (.2235 x 10) that approximately 2 kids from that specific demographic would use nicotine. The sum of all of these different values from all of the unique demographics would give the total number of kids in the school using nicotine. The same process would then be redone using the data from the three other drugs.
References
[1] Truth Initiative. (2016, August 10). The economics of tobacco: What education and income tell us about smoking. Retrieved from https://truthinitiative.org/news/economics-tobacco- what-education-and-income-tell-us-about-smoking
[2] Lopez. “The Risks of Alcohol, Marijuana, and Other Drugs, Explained.” Vox.com, Vox Media, 25 Feb. 2015, www.vox.com/2015/2/25/8104917/drug-dangers-marijuana-alcohol.
[3] Department of Health & Human Services. “Smoking - the Financial Cost.” Better Health Channel, Department of Health & Human Services, 30 Nov. 2014, www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/smoking-the-financial-cost.
[4] Stewart, Ian. “Report: Americans Are Now More Likely To Die Of An Opioid Overdose Than On The Road.” NPR, NPR, 14 Jan. 2019, www.npr.org/2019/01/14/684695273/report-americans-are-now-more-likely-to-die-of-an-opioid-overdose-than-on-the-ro.
[5] “The E-Cig Quandary.” The Nutrition Source, 18 Aug. 2016, www.hsph.harvard.edu/magazine/magazine_article/the-e-cig-quandary/.
Please email paper@jyem.org the summarized paper.
Abstract: This paper analyzes the conceptual value of the Buddhist teachings of no-self and mindfulness for contemporary activism. First it explores how the doctrine of no-self promotes extended empathy, self-awareness, self-love, and self-care. Second, it explores how the doctrine of mindfulness both resolves some of the organization-related tensions between no-self and activism and provides additional tools for effective activism, as mindfulness promotes embodied care and right action.
The main purpose of this paper was to propose a new philosophical approach to contemporary activism that would address its central problems on personal, interpersonal, and organizational levels.
Keywords: Buddhism, Zen, No-Self, Mindfulness, Activism
Introduction: It may seem counterintuitive to suggest that the Zen Buddhist doctrines of no-self and mindfulness might be effective tools for activism, considering that no-self completely undermines the Western conception of moral agency, and mindfulness promotes an awareness and acceptance of the present and detachment from desire for change. If activism is an organized effort to help others and ourselves in the face of injustice, can that really be achieved without a robust notion of the self and a powerful desire for change?
This paper argues that together, mindfulness and no-self can create a basis for better activism by addressing its central problems on personal, interpersonal, and organizational levels. First, it will be argued that the doctrine of no-self, far from limiting agency, promotes extended empathy, self-awareness, self-love, and self-care. Second, it will be argued that the doctrine of mindfulness both resolves some of the organization-related tensions between no-self and activism and provides additional tools for effective activism, as mindfulness promotes embodied care and right action. In this way, the incorporation of no-self and mindfulness into activism creates a comprehensive new approach to activism that is equipped to combat its main issues.
References
[1] Butnor, Ashby. 2014. “Dogen, Feminism, and the Embodied Practice of Care”. In Asian and Feminist Philosophies in Dialogue, ed. Jennifer McWeeny and Ashby Butnor.
[2] Kalmanson, Leah. “Buddhism and bell hooks: Liberatory Aesthetics and the Radical Subjectivity of No-Self.” Hypatia Vol. 27, No. 4 (2012): 810–827.
[3] Tanahashi Kazuaki, trans. 1985. Moon in a dewdrop: Writings of Zen master Dōgen. New York: North Point.
[4] Uebel, Michael, and Shorkey, Clayton. 2014. "Mindfulness and Engaged Buddhism: Implications for a Generalist Macro Social Work Practice". In Mindfulness and Acceptance in Social Work: Evidence-Based Interventions and Emerging Applications, ed. Matthew S. Boone: 215-234. Oakland, CA: New Harbinger Publications.
[5] Warren, Henry Clarke. 2005. “There is no ego”. Buddhism in Translations: 129-146. New York: Cosimo Classics.
Abstract : This study measured physiological signals, such as brain waves and blood pressures, of a group of students before and after they inhaled the essence of Hinoki Cypress (Chamaecyparis obtusa), containing terpenoid, the main ingredient of forest bath, which recently has been drawing attention due to its reported effectiveness. In addition to that, psychological tests, such as olfactory sensibility evaluation, as well as short-term memory, concentration, stress, and arousal tests, were likewise conducted in this study.
In summary, when the subjects inhaled the essence of cypress oil, their stresses were reduced and their memory and concentration improved under even working condition as well as under a stable condition. The fragrance, however, more effectively reduced the stress of the female subjects than that of the male subjects.
key words: Chamaecyparis obtusa, concentration, EEG, hinoki cypress, inhalation, , memory, phytoncide, stress
Introduction: The mental pressures and stresses of students brought about by academic demands made them weaken their memory and concentration, thereby depressing their learning faculties. As such, urgent measures must be taken to reduce the mental pressures and stresses of students. Fragrances transmitted to the hippocampus body and the hypophysis in the limbic system in the cerebrum influence the person's emotions, memory, and learning ability.
Thus, this study measured physiological signals, such as brain waves and blood pressures, of a group of students before and after they inhaled the essence of Hinoki Cypress (Chamaecyparis obtusa), containing terpenoid, the main ingredient of forest bath, which recently has been drawing attention due to its reported effectiveness. In addition to that, psychological tests, such as olfactory sensibility evaluation, as well as short-term memory, concentration, stress, and arousal tests, were likewise conducted in this study.
For the male subjects, the delta wave was reduced in the T5 and T3 zone, the beta wave was reduced, and the theta wave was increased in the TT2 zone after the inhalation of the fragrance. When the Corsi block tapping task (CBT) was carried out during the inhalation of the fragrance, the alpha wave was significantly increased in the TCP1, CP1, and PO1 zones, and the beta wave was significantly reduced in almost all zones. The psychophysiology was then stabilized.
Moreover, with the reduction of stress and systolic pressure, the increase of short-term memory, and the significant reduction of the error rate, the male subjects' sympathetic nervous systems were stabilized and their memory and concentration were improved by the fragrance's induction of emotions. For the female subjects, the alpha wave was increased in the P3 zone after the inhalation of the fragrance.
However, the alpha wave was significantly increased in the T3 and PO1 zones when the CBT was conducted during the inhalation of the fragrance whereas the beta wave was significantly reduced in the FP2, F4, T3, CZ, C4, TCP2, T5, and O1 zones. Furthermore, along with the reduction of stress and of the systolic pressure, and the improvement of short-term memory, the psychophysiology and the sympathetic nervous system were stabilized.
In summary, when the subjects inhaled the essence of cypress oil, their stresses were reduced and their memory and concentration improved under even working condition as well as under a stable condition. The fragrance, however, more effectively reduced the stress of the female subjects than that of the male subjects.
References
Please email paper@jyem.org the summarized paper.
Abstract: The acids and bases in the water cycle can settle on a bridge through condensation or evaporation. Acidic rain and basic rain are corrosive and have detrimental effects on building materials. Since the water cycle is continuous, acidic or basic rain would have a lasting effect on the strength of a bridge. Four bridges were created and three were suspended over hydrochloric acid, sodium hydroxide, and distilled water. For a week, each bridge was isolated under an aquarium tank. The fourth bridge was not tested with any liquid. The efficiency of each bridge was calculated by dividing the supported mass by the mass of the bridge. It was hypothesized that the bridges suspended above the hydrochloric acid and the sodium hydroxide would result in being less efficient than the bridge suspended over distilled water. The hypothesis was negated; The bridges suspended above the acid and base proved to be more efficient. The experiment is significant because the effects of acidic and basic rain should be considered when designing an effective bridge.
Introduction: A bridge’s structure must meet a set of requirements by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials [1]. There are several variables that affect the design of a bridge, such as the dimensions of the cross section and the positioning of cables. Precautions that are taken when bridges are engineered are the management of stress, properly locating cables, knowledge of capacity and limits of deflection and force eccentricity, and widths of cracks and fatigue [1]. The truss bridge is one of the oldest and most efficient types of bridge, with a geometric structure and can be made from metal, wood, or other materials [2]. The material used to make a truss is positioned further from the center- line of the bridge, strengthening the structure. A truss does not require much structural material, making it lighter than the other components of a bridge [2]. Bridges with trusses have limited bending potential due to the location of the truss and the central axis of the bridge [2]. There is more compression strain, rather than tension strain, found in wires, allowing to support more weight than a simple bridge [3].
Although bridges are built to tolerate rigorous conditions, there are still factors that reduce their strength. High levels of SO2 and NOx can be found in the urban environments with bridges. The acidity of these substances can damage a bridge’s structure [4], such as the corrosion and tarnishing of metals and electrical components, the discoloration of paints and organic coatings, the cracking or weakening of rubber or plastics, and the flaking of bricks [5]. The materials used to build a bridge can be negatively affected by acidic rain, which has a pH less than 5. Steel proves to be the strongest material because it can withstand acidic rain longer than the other two metals [6]. All of these factors weaken the strength of the bridge and deteriorate its structure.
Acids have a pH value less than 7, and bases have a pH value greater than 7. There are some strong bases such as sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, and barium hydroxide [7]. Strong bases behave like strong acids because they can be corrosive, while weaker bases are less reactive. A strong base, like sodium hydroxide, has a pH value of 13 [8]. Rain that is basic can have the same impact on bridges as acidic rain.
However, acidic rain is more likely to be found. The effects of acidic and basic rain are implemented through the water cycle. An experiment was conducted to test the effects of acidic and basic rain on bridge strength. It was hypothesized that the bridges suspended over the hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide would result in being less efficient than the bridge suspended over distilled water, because acids and bases have the ability to corrode bridge materials, therefore reducing its strength. The experiment is significant because the effects of acidic and basic rain may now be considered when attempting to design an effective bridge.
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Abstract: This research focuses on the conceptual characteristics of monophony, homophony, and polyphony in western music to identify the role of improvisation as well as its impact and change in Jazz piano. The main purpose is to set up the texture such as monophony, homophony, and polyphony in Jazz piano technique in order to identify the areas of change in improvisation.
This study limited its subject to jazz piano technique. In order to set up the texture, the instrumental characteristics and an example of jazz piano improvisation are presented. We further identified and analyzed the evolving nature of jazz piano technique improvisation within the textures into monophony, homophony and polyphony. From these procedures, we obtained the following results.
First, the conceptual characteristics of monophony, homophony, and polyphony, when combined with piano improvisation, results in an close relationship and has various inherent functions in the domain. Second, the general overview on the domain of improvisation as a piano technique reveals that there was a texture change. Third, this texture change was understood to be the result of the disintegration of the ensemble, resulting in the tendency of performers to consider the relationship between the harmony and melody. Lastly, the study on piano technique is important for establishing various playing techniques and ideas in the field of improvisation.
Jazz music has the symbolic authority that comes with improvisation and not from the traditional and conventional compositions. Therefore, the value of improvisation research is high. Although research on improvisation is progressing and developing, a multidimensional study and new approaches are needed. This study takes a new perspective of texture in order to identify the area of change in improvisation, and this information can be utilized as evidence and educational direction for new interpretation and approach.
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Abstract: The convergence of history and popular media is apparent in many forms. Music can protest ideologies and television can reflect social feelings of a generation. In the same way, movies have the power to propagate stereotypes and continue them on for generations to come. When the topic of Italian-Americans comes up, what often comes to mind is food, family and the darker, but just a prominent side of organized crime affiliation. Every notable Italian-American themed film seems to include this key formula. The formula itself can be examined in how it has evolved on screen, and to what extent that this representation matters in the public perception of a group of people. By exploring the history of Italian-Americans and the history of Italian-American representation together, insights can be drawn from the various levels of dynamic representation and the political ramifications of media. Part I of the paper will discuss some of the history of the film industry and the Italian-American representation.
Introduction: Film has the opportunity to reach various audiences and affect their perception of groups of people. In “Italian-Americans in Film: From Immigrants to Icons,” Carlos Cortés discusses the unintentional educational aspect that popular film has on the public’s opinion on ethnic groups. The text draws mostly on examples in film from the period that he is discussing at the time. He touches on the revisiting of The Godfather saga, with the new version including a note about how these films are “not representative of any ethnic group.” [1] This is discussed with a certain irony, as Cortés argues that it is clearly supposed to represent Italian-Americans. The comparison and connection of media and ethnic history is an interesting comparison because it shows the reciprocal relationship between media and historical events. Cortez explores media representation more closely raising questions on understudied or mis-studied parts of history because of their representation.
Abstract: The political sensitivity of the region in turn propagates the popularity of political interpretations for literature from Xinjiang. When reading Uyghur poetry from the likes of Tahir Hamut, Perhat Tursun, or Ghojimuhemmed Muhemmed, it is difficult to divorce ones thinking from the political reality that defines everything in Xinjiang. Literature gives a lens to culture and reality, and concerning Uyghur Misty/ Gungga/ Menglong poets there are interesting viewpoints on the political value and implications of their works. This paper will seek to outline how the political intentions of these gungga poets are interpreted. An ethno-religious reading of these authors will be called into question while an argument for a political community consciousness of issues will be put forth. This will be mostly done through an analysis of various gungga works in this paper.
Introduction: The political instability of the Uyghur situation within the People’s Republic of China is something that is front page news across the globe. The resource rich and vast territory of the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region is one that is crucial not only for the territorial integrity of the Chinese nation but a keystone for Chinese aspirations in the international field–especially with the New Silk Road initiative put forth by Xi Jinping in recent years. The wealth of this region is unevenly shared with dissatisfaction high among the Uyghurs of the region. The nationwide issues that spring forth from economic growth, modernization, and the control of the Communist Party are intensified in Xinjiang because of the volatile situation present. This results in the unwavering iron grip that the Chinese Communist Party exerts on the native populations of the province [1]. In the crusade to rid the region of “dangerous” elements, the Chinese Communist Party has recently sought to rid the province of “dangerous” people–the destruction of a people seems to be simply a means to an end for the pacification of Xinjiang under the Chinese Communist Party.
Abstract: This research is an attempt to interpret how the early Buddhist teachings portray Nibbana and how this portrayal might be understood as a fitting conclusion to the Buddha’s quest to overcome suffering. In particular, we have tried to shed light on what is meant by bhava-nirodha (cessation of existence), a common description of Nibbana, and how such a dictum might avoid annihilationist interpretations without, at the same time, leaning towards an eternalist interpretation, the two extremes the Buddha seeks to avoid. In the second section, we attempt to see how the Buddha instructed his disciples to abandon the arising of the self-perspective. We have relied heavily on Bhante Katukurunde Nanananda’s analysis of the sutta-pitika as seen in a number of his books and most notably, in his Nibbana: The Mind Stilled series.
Introduction: Nanananda, formely a Pali lecturer, came under the guidance of Bhante Matara Sri Nanarama and was invited by the latter to deliver the sermons on Nibbana which would comprise the Nibbana:
The Mind Stilled series [1]. Nanananda’s interpretation is notable, first, in its disagreement with the commentarial tradition’s understanding, and second, in its insistence of Nibbana being the cessation of existence while nevertheless avoiding an annihilationist point of view. The sermons also rely heavily on the early texts. For the most part, these sermons were met with much resistance for the very same reasons that they are notable (the commentarial tradition is held in very high esteem in Sri Lanka, where these sermons were delivered).