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Exploring the Synergy of Executive Functions and Sensory Processing in Shaping Occupational Participation
Get PDFThis study adds to the available literature on the relationship between executive functions (EF) and sensory processing (SP), and their combined effect on occupational participation (OP) in children aged 5-12 years. Understanding the nature of this relationship holds the key to identifying factors shaping a child\u27s ability to engage effectively in daily life activities. The research team hypothesized that children with stronger EF and more efficient SP will demonstrate higher levels of OP, while those with challenges in either or both domains may experience limitations to effectively engage in daily activities. Participants consisted of parents of 26 children aged 5 to 12, initially recruited from after-school programs, community-based recreational activities, and local clinics in the Bay Area. However, the final data set included responses from only 6 participants. Recruitment strategies included word of mouth, flyers, social media outreach, and email invitations. Efforts were made to ensure the sample was diverse, considering characteristics such as age, sex, race, and living status. Data collection tools included the following three evidence-based measures: Sensory Processing Measures-2nd edition (SPM-2), Behavioral Executive Function Inventory-2nd edition (BRIEF-2), and Participation and Environment Measure Children and Youth (PEM-CY). A series of bi-variate correlation were conducted in SPSS, International Business Machines Corporation (IBM) (Version 26) to understand the relationships between EF, SP and OP. A strong positive correlation was found between SP and EF: (r =.90, p r = -0.90, p = .1), indicating that poorer the sensory processing, the lower the school participation. Correlations between SP and PEMCY Community participation showed a weak negative correlation (r = -0.03), while PEMCY Home participation was positively associated (r =.42), however, these correlations are not statistically significant. There were moderate negative associations between EF and participation in school (r = -0.50), and community (r = -0.58), indicating lower EF was associated with less participation in these settings. A marginal positive association was observed between EF and participation at home (r =.20). These correlations were also not statistically significant. This study demonstrates how SP, EF and OP are interconnected and influence children\u27s involvement in everyday activities across various settings. Future research should aim to include larger and more representative samples to ensure reliable findings. Using standardized tools to measure EF and SP, examining how certain EF skills influence school participation, and offering bilingual resources can make future studies clearer and more inclusive
The Impact of Roe v. Wade Overturning on Women’s Access to Medical Abortions: Exploring Alternative Care Models
Get PDFThis study explores the impact of educational interventions on California based Nurse Practitioners. And their willingness to provide telehealth abortion services in states with restrictions. By using a mixed methods approach it assesses how increased knowledge may help influence providers attitudes, adding to improved reproductive healthcare access. The study addresses the critical issue of reduced abortion access which stems from recent policy changes, which have left patients in certain regions with limited options. The literature shows that telemedicine and mail-order services hold promise for improving access. This research proposal explores the impact of educational interventions on California-based Nurse Practitioners’ willingness to offer telehealth abortion services to patients in states with restrictive abortion laws. Using a mixed-methods approach, this research investigates how increased knowledge of telemedicine and mail-order abortion pill protocols may influence provider attitudes and practices. There are still gaps in understanding providers\u27 readiness to fully adopt these models. Approximately 200 licensed Nurse Practitioners in California will complete a pre- and post-intervention survey to assess their knowledge and attitudes prior to intervention. Follow-up interviews will then be provided for qualitative insights into perceived barriers and ethical considerations. Findings from this study could contribute to improved reproductive healthcare access by informing practitioners on training and guiding policy on telemedicine abortion services in restrictive states
From Static Prediction to Mindful Machines: A Paradigm Shift in Distributed AI Systems
No full textA special class of complex adaptive systems—biological and social—thrive not by passively accumulating patterns, but by engineering coherence, i.e., the deliberate alignment of prior knowledge, real-time updates, and teleonomic purposes. By contrast, today’s AI stacks—Large Language Models (LLMs) wrapped in agentic toolchains—remain rooted in a Turing-paradigm architecture: statistical world models (opaque weights) bolted onto brittle, imperative workflows. They excel at pattern completion, but they externalize governance, memory, and purpose, thereby accumulating coherence debt—a structural fragility manifested as hallucinations, shallow and siloed memory, ad hoc guardrails, and costly human oversight. The shortcoming of current AI relative to human-like intelligence is therefore less about raw performance or scaling, and more about an architectural limitation: knowledge is treated as an after-the-fact annotation on computation, rather than as an organizing substrate that shapes computation. This paper introduces Mindful Machines, a computational paradigm that operationalizes coherence as an architectural property rather than an emergent afterthought. A Mindful Machine is specified by a Digital Genome (encoding purposes, constraints, and knowledge structures) and orchestrated by an Autopoietic and Meta-Cognitive Operating System (AMOS) that runs a continuous Discover–Reflect–Apply–Share (D-R-A-S) loop. Instead of a static model embedded in a one-shot ML pipeline or deep learning neural network, the architecture separates (1) a structural knowledge layer (Digital Genome and knowledge graphs), (2) an autopoietic control plane (health checks, rollback, and self-repair), and (3) meta-cognitive governance (critique-then-commit gates, audit trails, and policy enforcement). We validate this approach on the classic Credit Default Prediction problem by comparing a traditional, static Logistic Regression pipeline (monolithic training, fixed features, external scripting for deployment) with a distributed Mindful Machine implementation whose components can reconfigure logic, update rules, and migrate workloads at runtime. The Mindful Machine not only matches the predictive task, but also achieves autopoiesis (self-healing services and live schema evolution), explainability (causal, event-driven audit trails), and dynamic adaptation (real-time logic and threshold switching driven by knowledge constraints), thereby reducing the coherence debt that characterizes contemporary ML- and LLM-centric AI architectures. The case study demonstrates “a hybrid, runtime-switchable combination of machine learning and rule-based simulation, orchestrated by AMOS under knowledge and policy constraints”
Investigating impacts of the mycothiazole chemotype as a chemical probe for the study of mitochondrial function and aging.
Get PDFSmall molecule inhibitors of the mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC) hold significant promise to provide valuable insights to the field of mitochondrial research and aging biology. In this study, we investigated two molecules: mycothiazole (MTZ) - from the marine sponge C. mycofijiensis and its more stable semisynthetic analog 8-O-acetylmycothiazole (8-OAc) as potent and selective chemical probes based on their high efficiency to inhibit ETC complex I function. Similar to rotenone (Rote), MTZ, a newly employed ETC complex I inhibitor, exhibited higher cytotoxicity against cancer cell lines compared to certain non-cancer cell lines. Interestingly, 8-OAc demonstrated greater selectivity for cancer cells when compared to both MTZ and Rote, which has promising potential for anticancer therapeutic development. Furthermore, in vivo experiments with these small molecules utilizing a C. elegans model demonstrate their unexplored potential to investigate aging studies. We observed that both molecules have the ability to induce a mitochondria-specific unfolded protein response (UP
Effects of Comprehensive Sex Education on Unplanned Pregnancy Rates and STI Occurrences among Chinese American Adolescents
Get PDFSexually transmitted diseases/infections (STIs) and unplanned pregnancies is a continuing health concern among adolescents. They are more likely to engage in risky behaviors that increase the likelihood for STIs and unplanned pregnancies which emphasizes the need for comprehensive sex education (CSE). This research proposal strives to determine if CSE is an effective tool in reducing cases of STIs and unplanned pregnancies, specifically in Chinese American adolescents. The literature review identified CSE successfully decreasing STIs and unplanned pregnancies in youths. However, limited research correlates the relationship between CSE and Chinese American adolescents. In addition, few studies take cultural influences into account when analyzing this demograph’s sexual practices and behaviors, thus showing a lack of diversity in sex education. To assess the effectiveness of CSE, a convenience sample of 100 adolescents will participate in completing an initial 20 question survey, followed by an sex education course, and then a post-test of the same 20 question survey. Results should show improvement in test scores after the intervention. Data will be analyzed through p-value to indicate statistical significance. In addition, descriptive statistics such as mean, mode, and median will be utilized to compare pre-intervention and post-intervention test scores.
Keywords: comprehensive sex education, STIs, unplanned pregnancies, Chinese American adolescents, Asian American adolescents, sexual behaviors and attitude
Enhancing School Culture through Positive Behavioral Intervention Supports (PBIS) Training and Implementation: Insights from Teacher and Administrator Educators
Get PDFPositive Behavioral Intervention and Supports (PBIS) is a comprehensive approach to fostering a positive school environment by supporting social behavior throughout the school community. The goal of PBIS is to enhance both educational and social achievements for all students. Research has indicated that successful implementation of school-wide practices requires initiation that includes administrative engagement, creation of a leadership team, and alignment with the school’s vision and mission (Cook & Odom, 2013). Administrator support and ongoing professional development were crucial for the success of positive behavior interventions. School-wide PBIS, described by Angus and Nelson (2019), was a proactive approach to teaching expected behaviors. In addition, both PBIS and Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) aim to nurture a positive school environment. PBIS provides structured support for reinforcing positive behavior, seamlessly integrating with classroom management.
This qualitative study examined PBIS\u27s impact on schools from the perspectives of teachers and administrators, aiming to understand perceptions of PBIS implementation and training. Using qualitative data from interviews with five educators at a Northern California school serving students with autism spectrum disorder, the study focused on PBIS approaches, perceptions, and training methods. The study highlighted the importance of valuing input from educators and administrators, aiming to identify professional development needs for effective PBIS implementation and to explore how training influenced program success and school culture
Exploring the Role of Mitochondrial Fission Factor (MFF) in Murine Reproduction
No full textAge-related decline in ovarian follicles and oocyte quantity and quality is a pivotal factor contributing to female infertility, yet the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Mitochondrial fission factor (MFF), a critical regulator of mitochondrial division, has emerged as a key player in this context. Previous studies, including our own, have unveiled an age-related decline in MFF protein levels in multiple organs across species, suggesting its potential involvement in reproductive aging. Concurrently, Pumilio RNA binding family member 2 (PUM2) has emerged as a key player in modulating MFF protein production by interacting with its mRNA.
Recently, our lab discovered MFF’s role in aging and found that MFF knockout (KO) mice showed an accelerated aging phenotype with a severely shortened lifespan. Additionally, MFF KO male and female mice are infertile compared to their age matched wild type (WT) littermates. Given these findings, in this study, we focused on investigating the role of MFF loss on female and male reproduction using a murine model. We have systematically studied both internal and external reproductive anatomy, along with the morphology and physiology of reproductive organs in MFF KO mice compared to wild type (WT) littermates. We also explored MFF protein expression levels across different estrous stages in mouse ovaries and analyzed luteinizing hormone (LH) gonadotropin levels in the plasma of MFF KO mice.
Our results revealed significant decreases in MFF protein levels in aged ovaries, while levels remained constant across estrous stages in young ovaries. Both male and female MFF KO mice exhibited markedly smaller reproductive organs compared to their wild type counterparts. Additionally, they manifested significant delays in puberty onset. Notably, female MFF KO mice lacked estrous cyclicity, a phenomenon correlated with reduced levels of LH in these animals. A histological analysis coupled with quantification confirmed that MFF KO female mice did not display any corpora lutea, corroborating our previous findings of anovulatory phenotype in MFF KO female mice. This research has significantly enhanced our comprehension of the roles played by MFF molecular pathway in mouse reproduction,particularly in female fertility and aging Moreover, it holds promise for contributing to the development of innovative therapeutic interventions aimed at treating infertility
Deciphering the Complex Networks of Aging Through a Glycation Lowering Tool and the Effects of Methylglyoxal (MGO) on Adipocytes
No full textAccumulation of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) is linked to increased glycation stress which is associated with age-related deficits that ultimately affect the quality of life and longevity. Methylglyoxal (MGO), a highly reactive α-dicarbonyl (α-DC) produced as a by-product of glycolysis, plays a role in increasing levels of AGEs. This occurs when MGO undergoes insufficient detoxification by the glyoxalase system which becomes impaired with aging and diseases. As MGO accumulates, AGEs production is induced and results in heightened glycation stress, leading to more risk factors for disease. Our lab previously screened generally regarded as safe (GRAS) compounds and identified a cocktail of 5 compounds (designated Gly-low) that ameliorate the harmful effects of MGO toxicity. Gly-low treatment in mice enhances MGO detoxification, reduces body weight, promotes glucose homeostasis, and extends lifespan. Concurrently, another FDA-approved drug called rapamycin— known to inhibit mTOR (mechanistic target of rapamycin), which is responsible for cell growth and metabolism— has been proven to extend lifespan and protects aging muscle. In this study, we further explored the independent effects of Gly-low and rapamycin and determined if there was a synergistic effect between Gly-low and rapamycin in mice through a longitudinal study. We performed experiments at different time points, ranging from 18 months old to adulthood, to evaluate body composition (lean mass, bone density, and fat), muscle performance (endurance, muscle coordination and strength), glucose homeostasis, and survival. We also further determined the effects of MGO and its effects on 3T3-L1 cells in vitro. We explored the alteration of gene expression MGO could cause on pre-adipocytes, specifically looking at: Inflammation, cell cycle regulatory genes, and determined if differentiation is also affected through MGO treatment
Eyes Wide Open: Stories of Grief, Loss, and Transformation through Narrative Medicine
No full textEyes Wide Open: Stories of Grief, Loss, and Transformation through Narrative Medicine is written by a seasoned oncology nurse who has been around death and dying her entire life. Themes of grief, loss, transformation, infertility, cancer, mother-daughter relationship, family, and being of service are examined with care and grace
Art Therapy Assessment and Sense of Safety
Get PDFThis study aimed to understand how artmaking experiences during assessment may influence the formation of the therapeutic alliance at the start of therapy. Rather than measuring therapeutic alliance directly, this study identified psychological safety as a vital component of the therapeutic relationship and an important topic of study via literature on attachment theory. Using a mixed-methods, repeated-measures design, this study compared artmaking experiences and feelings of psychological safety in response to two interventions––a Human Figure Drawing (HFD) assessment and an Expressive Therapies Continuum (ETC) assessment. Overall, qualitative data from semi-structured interviews and quantitative data from the Art-Based Intervention (ABI) questionnaire and an altered version of the Types of Positive Affect Scale (TPAS) showed that participants had a more positive artmaking experience and felt more psychologically safe during the ETC assessment compared to the HFD assessment. Aspects of the artmaking experience during the ETC assessment associated with safety were choice/freedom of expression and focus on the artmaking process, rather than the product. Some initial safety was also found in the direction given in the HFD instructions, but this seemed to be outweighed by negative experiences during artmaking, including feeling limited, self-critique, and concerns about expectations and judgement. The greater level of psychological safety experienced during the ETC assessment indicates that this type of art therapy assessment may be more beneficial in promoting the formation of the therapeutic alliance.
Keywords: art therapy, assessment, psychological safety, therapeutic allianc