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We demonstrate an optofluidic device which utilizes the optical scattering and gradient forces for particle trapping in microchannels featuring 300 nm thick membranes. On-chip waveguides are used to direct light into microfluidic trapping channels. Radiation pressure is used to push particles into a protrusion cavity, isolating the particles from liquid flow. Two different designs are presented: the first exclusively uses the optical scattering force for particle manipulation, and the second uses both scattering and gradient forces. Trapping performance is modeled for both cases. The first design, referred to as the orthogonal force design, is shown to have a 80% capture efficiency under typical operating conditions. The second design, referred to as the gradient force design, is shown to have 98% efficiency under the same conditions.

We demonstrate a method for fabricating and utilizing an optofluidic particle manipulator on a silicon chip that features a 300 nm thick silicon dioxide membrane as part of a microfluidic channel. The fabrication method is based on etching silicon channels and converting the walls to silicon dioxide through thermal oxidation. Channels are encapsulated by a sacrificial polymer which fills the length of the fluid channel by way of spontaneous capillary action. The sacrificial material is then used as a mold for the formation of a nanoscale, solid-state, silicon dioxide membrane. The hollow channel is primarily used for fluid and particle transport but is capable of transmitting light over short distances and utilizes radiation pressure for particle trapping applications. The optofluidic platform features solid-core ridge waveguides which can direct light on and off of the silicon chip and intersect liquid channels. Optical loss values are characterized for liquid and solid-core structures and at interfaces. Estimates are provided for the optical power needed to trap particles of various sizes.

Understanding factors that influence the efficacy of functional communication training has both practical and conceptual benefits. The current study extended research in this area by exploring data from 95 consecutive applications of functional communication training with extinction across two independent clinics. We selected candidate predictor variables based on conceptual analysis, conducted preliminary exploratory analyses, and then selectively applied quantitative methods that are used in precision medicine to examine their accuracy and predictive utility. Treatment outcomes were better when challenging behavior was maintained by a single function than they were when it was maintained by multiple functions; however, these differences were most apparent among cases with an escape function. We also analyzed within‐session responding to explore the potential influence of unprogrammed establishing operations on decrements in treatment efficacy. Our within‐session measure only distinguished responders from nonresponders when escape was one of the multiple functions. Additional research is needed to validate these findings with an independent sample and to address a number of clinical conceptual issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several studies have examined the efficacy of behavior analytic coaching strategies in sports to increase performance fluency. Rock climbing is a multifaceted sport requiring mastery of several complex behavior chains in order to successfully navigate climbing surfaces. To date, most investigations have focused on the physiological aspects of rock climbing, as opposed to training specific rock-climbing movements. In this replication and extension, researchers used a multiple baseline design across skills to examine an expert video modeling plus video and verbal feedback training package on foundational rock-climbing skills of novice adult climbers. Results demonstrated that all participants showed an increase in accurate performance for all three skills that were targeted in the intervention.

There are a growing number of publications supporting behavior-analytic strategies to increase compliance with medical procedures. However, little research has been conducted on the application of applied behavior analysis to teach compliance with and completion of the setup required for an overnight sleep study (polysomnography). The client in this report presented with autism, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, strokes, and severe destructive behavior (i.e., aggression, property destruction, self-injury). These conditions combined with a poor sleep/wake schedule and gasping during the night necessitated a sleep study. The caregiver referred their child to behavioral outpatient services due to medical noncompliance and severe destructive interfering behaviors with similar procedures (e.g., failed electroencephalogram [EEG]). We evaluated the effects of differential reinforcement without extinction and stimulus fading on compliance and reduction of destructive behavior with a 25-step sleep study procedure. Our approach successfully taught tolerance of the procedure and reduced destructive behavior. The client completed the scheduled sleep study and received a diagnosis of mild obstructive sleep apnea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The notion of 'sacred space' has received attention from various scholars in the field of religious studies, as well as other academic disciplines. However, twentieth century contributions are specifically relevant to the study at hand. Moreover, it seems only natural to begin an analysis of 'sacred space' by describing what is meant by the word 'sacred' in its territorial connection with 'space.' Therefore, specific understandings of 'the sacred' will be explored, such as those developed by French sociologist Emile Durkheim and French historian of religion Mircea Eliade. Following this, the modern construct 'cyberspace' will be explored, as the reader is led into the main topic under investigation: the existence of sacred space in cyberspace, with a special emphasis on the cyber-social network MySpace. This part of the investigation will explore the various correlations that exist between these understandings of 'sacred space' and those found in MySpace, arguing that the latter qualifies as being analogous to the former by the way in which it functions for its users., 1

The mediation of religious narratives through sacred texts is intimately bound to the power relations involved in their transmission and maintenance. Those who possess such mediated messages and control their access and interpretation have historically held privileged positions of authority, especially when those positions are not easily contested. The 2010 film The Book of Eli uniquely engages these elements by placing the alleged last copy of the King James Version of the Christian Bible at the forefront of a clash between different individuals in a post-nuclear wasteland. This paper, drawing on Max Weber's notion of "charisma," and scholars addressing religion, power, and violence, examines the role of authority and the shifting power relations revolving around the possession and use of this sacred text throughout the film. In doing so, it seeks to carry associated implications and critiques outside of the film and into the contemporary world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]