cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Neutron Capture Therapy (NCT) Enhancement of Fast Neutron Radiotherapy at the University of Washington

Fast neutrons in the energy range of several MeV to several tens of MeV are a form of high linear energy transfer (LET) radiation. Their depth-dose properties are comparable (or perhaps slightly inferior) to those of megavoltage photon irradiation and one depends upon their advantageous radiobiological properties to more effectively sterilize certain classes of tumors.1 The first patient was treated with fast neutrons by Stone and coworkers2 in 1938 using an early cyclotron at the Crocker Radiation Laboratory (now the Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory). Between then and 1943 a total of 240 patients were treated using low-energy beams by today’s standards. Almost all of these patients had very advanced tumors and some had received prior radiotherapy using the orthovoltage beams of that era. There were few long term survivors and those patients that did survive had severe radiation sequellae. Interest in this form of cancer treatment waned until the 1950s when radiation biologists learned to grow mammalian cells in culture and achieved a better understanding of the radiobiological properties of fast neutrons. A subsequent review of Stone’s initial work showed that the appropriate relative biological effectiveness (RBE) factors corresponding to Stone’s treatment regimens were substantially larger than had been determined from early animal experiments which resulted in excessive doses being given to these early patients.
Entertaining Crisis in the Atlantic Imperium 1770-1790

Entertaining Crisis in the Atlantic Imperium 1770-1790 Daniel O'Quinn Johns Hopkins University Press, 2011 978-0-9018-9931-7 On the face of it, this book seems an odd choice for review in a journal...
Toward a theory of marketing control: Environmental context, control types, and consequences.

Historically, marketing control research has involved either the development of output-oriented financial controls or the analysis of how financial controls affect performance. This work on marketi...
Test-Taking Speed Predictors and Implications

Students often feel time pressure when taking tests, and students with disabilities are sometimes given extended time testing accommodations, but little research has been done on the factors that affect students’ test-taking speed. In the present study, 253 students at two colleges completed measures of processing speed, reading fluency, and self-reports of their reading and test-taking skills, as well as a standardized paper-and-pencil reading comprehension task. The time taken to complete the reading comprehension task was not significantly related to students’ accuracy on the task, but it was predicted by students’ reading fluency and by their self-reports of problems with timed reading/test-taking. Students’ processing speed did not significantly predict comprehension task completion time or accuracy when reading fluency and self-reports were held constant. We discuss the implications of these and other results for making determinations about extended time testing accommodations, as well as for future...
Uinta Basin: Elevated Ozone Creates Opportunities, Not Adversaries

This paper examines rural ozone pollution in the Uinta Basin. The pollution issue is complex — scientific uncertainty compounds with jurisdictional issues under the Clean Air Act. A large number of conservation, government, and economic stakeholders take interest in the region’s air quality and there are no easy answers. This paper seeks to stimulate discussion in hopes of fostering a collaborative approach to solving the problem. It includes both a conflict assessment and proposes a process design for moving forward through cooperation.
Fuzzy Rule-Based Vulnerability Assessment Framework for Web Applications

This paper addresses the problem of assessing risk in web application due to implementation level vulnerabilities. In particular, the authors address the common research challenge of finding enough historical data to compute the probability of vulnerabilities and exploitations. They develop a Fuzzy Logic based System FLS1 to compute the risk uniformly and to address the diversity of risks. The authors propose a set of crisp metrics that are used to define fuzzy sets. They also develop a set of rule-bases to assess the risk level. The proposed FLS can be a useful tool to aid application developers and industry practitioners to assess the risk and plan ahead for employing necessary mitigation approaches. The authors evaluate their proposed approach using three real-world web applications implemented in PHP, and apply it to four types of common vulnerabilities. The initial results indicate that the proposed FLS approach can effectively discover high risk applications.
Combined use of isoproterenol and propranolol in cardiogenic shock.

Nine patients with cardiogenic shock or low cardiac output following open heart surgery were treated with isoproterenol and propranolol. Isoproterenol alone was effective in increasing cardiac output in both groups. In 4 01 9 patients, isoproterenol plus propranolol caused an increased stroke volume with reduction in heart rate, while cardiac output remained elevated. Within 30 to 75 minutes cardiac output and stroke volume returned to near base-Une values. In these patients, the antagonistic action of propranolol was seen sooner in its effect on rate than on force of contraction. Since the separation of inotropic and chronotropic effects was transient and unpredictable, it is concluded that combined isoproterenol and propranolol therapy offers no advantage in the treatment of cardiogenic shock.
Review: drug-eluting stents for coronary artery disease do not reduce mortality more than bare-metal stents.

Source Citation Nordmann AJ, Briel M, Bucher HC.Mortality in randomized controlled trials comparing drug-eluting vs. bare metal stents in coronary artery disease: a meta-analysis.Eur Heart J. 2006;...
Modeling of Small‐sized ELMs in Detached Divertor Plasmas

Self-consistent modeling of edge plasma transport and deuterium wall inventory including multiple transient events was performed with the multi-physics 2-D transport code UEDGE-MB-W. In agreement with experimental data trends on DIII-D, the modeling results show that relatively small-sized and frequent type-I Edge Localized Mode (ELM) events, which are typical for high-power H-mode discharges with strong deuterium gas-puff fueling on this tokamak, are not “burning through” the formed detached plasma in the inner and, with further increase in fueling, in the outer divertor. In the latter case, the divertors are filled by sub-eV, high-density, strongly-recombining and highly impurity contaminated plasma. Time-dependent experimental data supporting the view that volumetric plasma recombination is enhanced during small-sized ELMs penetrating into the detached plasma are discussed and the confirmatory results from UEDGE-MB-W modeling are presented. (© 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Profiles of Neuropsychological Functioning in Children and Adolescents with Spina Bifida: Associations with Biopsychosocial Predictors and Functional Outcomes

Objectives: The current study examined neuropsychological performance among children with spina bifida (SB) to determine biological and functional correlates of distinct “profiles” of cognitive functioning. Methods: A total of 95 children with SB myelomeningocele (ages, 8–15 years) completed a neuropsychological assessment battery. Hierarchical and non-hierarchical cluster analyses were used to identify and confirm a cluster solution. Hypothesized predictors of cluster membership included lesion level, number of shunt surgeries, history of seizures, age, ethnicity, socio-economic status, and family stress. Outcomes included independence, academic success, expectations for the future, and quality of life. Results: Ward’s cluster method indicated a three-cluster solution, and was replicated with two other cluster analytic methods. The following labels were applied to the clusters: “average to low average” (n=39), “extremely low to borderline” (n=27), and “broadly average with verbal strength” (n=29). Socio-econimc status, lesion level, and seizure history significantly predicted group membership. Cluster membership significantly predicted independence, academic success, parent expectations for the future, and child reported physical quality of life. Conclusions: Findings from this study suggest qualitatively different cognitive profiles exist among children with SB, and the relevance of neuropsychological functioning for day-to-day adaptive functioning and quality of life. Clinical implications and future research are discussed. (JINS, 2016, 22, 804–815)
Static and Dynamic Photo-Induced Index of Refraction Changes

This article deals upon three aspects of the interaction of light with matter. First of all, we consider exploitation of photo-induced chemical and structural changes for fabrication of integrated optical circuits and realization of phase matching in second harmonic generation. The systematic generation of spatial variations in index of refraction, which we demonstrate, can be a crucial factor in the development of nonlinear optical devices for commercial application. We then examine development of dynamic second order optical nonlinearities and the exploitation of these for frequency generation, electro-optic modulation, and beam steering. Our particular focus in this article is the stabilization of poling-induced order and second order nonlinear optical activity. The final discussion focuses upon third order optical nonlinearities. This area of research is less advanced and attention is directed toward definition of mechanisms of optical nonlinearity and upon identifying research avenues for significantly improving optical nonlinearities for device applications such as sensor protection, dynamic holography, and optical computing.
Instructional Dissent as a Conservation of Resources for Emotionally Exhausted Students

Since its inception, scholars have examined teacher behaviors and student characteristics that contribute to instructional dissent. The model tested in the current study includes student emotional exhaustion, anger, emotion work, and emotional support as contributors to expressive, vengeful, and rhetorical dissent at the end of the semester. Participants were 196 university students who reported on their general levels of emotional exhaustion before completing measures of anger, emotion work, emotional support, and instructional dissent in a specific class. From a conservation of resources theoretical perspective, results indicate that emotionally exhausted students dissent to restore emotional resources or to protect from additional resource drain.
Cutaneous Adenocystic Carcinoma

Adenocystic carcinoma is a malignant tumor, which arises from the major and accessory salivary glands. Cutaneous involvement may result from direct infiltration from salivary glands. Cutaneous adenocystic carcinoma (CACC) remote site of the salivary glands is very rare.
Textile product information in advertisements: Mademoiselle magazine 1942–1977

ABSTRACTThe purpose of this research was to investigate communication of textile innovation during the twentieth century with the premise that marketing strategy was a possible reason for including such information in fashion magazine advertisements. Content analysis determined the extent to which textile product information was incorporated in advertisements, identified peak periods of inclusion, and pinpointed decline of usage. Mademoiselle issues from 1942 to 1977 were reviewed and revealed inclusion of more textile than apparel product information, emphasis on fabrics following World War II, and focus on fibres and cooperative advertising during the 1950s and 1960s. It was concluded that the advertising of new textile innovations aligns with the first phase (knowledge) of innovation diffusion and was essential to promote widespread adoption of these fibres. Future research could examine mail-order retailer catalogs from retailers to provide evidence of product information communicated to consumers dur...
Association Between Gender Confirmation Treatments and Perceived Gender Congruence, Body Image Satisfaction, and Mental Health in a Cohort of Transgender Individuals.

Abstract Background Transgender individuals sometimes seek gender confirmation treatments (GCT), including hormone therapy (HT) and/or surgical change of the chest and genitalia (“top” and “bottom” gender confirmation surgeries). These treatments may ameliorate distress resulting from the incongruence between one's physical appearance and gender identity. Aim The aim was to examine the degree to which individuals' body-gender congruence, body image satisfaction, depression, and anxiety differed by GCT groups in cohorts of transmasculine (TM) and transfeminine (TF) individuals. Methods The Study of Transition, Outcomes, and Gender is a cohort study of transgender individuals recruited from 3 health plans located in Georgia, Northern California, and Southern California; cohort members were recruited to complete a survey between 2015–2017. Participants were asked about: history of GCT; body-gender congruence; body image satisfaction; depression; and anxiety. Participants were categorized as having received: (1) no GCT to date; (2) HT only; (3) top surgery; (4) partial bottom surgery; and (5) definitive bottom surgery. Outcomes Outcomes of interest included body-gender congruence, body image satisfaction, depression, and anxiety. Results Of the 2,136 individuals invited to participate, 697 subjects (33%) completed the survey, including 347 TM and 350 TF individuals. The proportion of participants with low body-gender congruence scores was significantly higher in the “no treatment” group (prevalence ratio [PR] = 3.96, 95% CI 2.72–5.75) compared to the definitive bottom surgery group. The PR for depression comparing participants who reported no treatment relative to those who had definitive surgery was 1.94 (95% CI 1.42–2.66); the corresponding PR for anxiety was 4.33 (95% CI 1.83–10.54). Clinical Translation Withholding or delaying GCT until depression or anxiety have been treated may not be the optimal treatment course given the benefits of reduced levels of distress after undergoing these interventions. Conclusions Strengths include the well-defined sampling frame, which allowed correcting for non-response, a sample with approximately equal numbers of TF and TM participants, and the ability to combine data on HT and gender confirmation surgeries. Limitations include the cross-sectional design and the fact that participants may not be representative of the transgender population in the United States. Body-gender congruence and body image satisfaction were higher, and depression and anxiety were lower among individuals who had more extensive GCT compared to those who received less treatment or no treatment at all. Owen-Smith AA, Gerth J, Sineath RC, et al. Association Between Gender Confirmation Treatments and Perceived Gender Congruence, Body Image Satisfaction and Mental Health in a Cohort Of Transgender Individuals. J Sex Med 2018;15:591–600.
Foxp3(+) regulatory T cells in tuberculosis.

The immune response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) must be tightly regulated to mount a sufficient response to limit bacterial growth and dissemination while avoiding excessive inflammation that could damage host tissues. A wide variety of cell types, cell surface molecules, and cytokines are likely to contribute to this regulation, but recent studies have revealed that a subset of CD4 T cells expressing the transcription factor Foxp3, called regulatory T (reg) cells, play a critical role [1, 2, 3]. Although the first reports of T reg cells in tuberculosis (TB) occurred only recently (i.e., 2006) [4, 5], we have already gained many insights into their activity during TB. While it is likely that T reg cells do play some beneficial roles by preventing inflammation-mediated damage to host tissues during TB, this aspect of their function has not been well studied to date. What is clear, however, is that during the initial T cell response to Mtb infection, Mtb induces the expansions of T reg cells that delay the onset of adaptive immunity, suggesting that Mtb has hijacked T reg cell-mediated immune suppression to allow it to replicate unabated in the lung until T cells finally arrive [6]. In this chapter, we will first provide an overview of the delayed T cell response to Mtb and a brief introduction to regulatory T cells. We will then review what is known about T reg cells from observations in human populations, discuss mechanistic insights revealed in the mouse model, and speculate about the relevance of this understanding for future efforts to prevent and treat TB.
The Sun Goes Around the Earth

Since the mass of pupils are never going to become scientific specialists, it is much more important that they should get some insight what scientific method means than they should copy at long range and second hand the results that scientific men have reached. Students will not go so far, perhaps, in the ‘ground covered,’ but they will be sure and intelligent as far as they do go. And it is safe to say that the few who do go on to be scientific experts will have a better preparation than if they had been swamped by a large mass of purely technical and symbolically stated information. In fact, those that do become successful [in] science are those who by their own power manage to avoid the pitfalls of a traditional scholastic introduction into it.2
17 A Postgenomic Overview of the Myxobacteria

Currently, Myxococcus xanthus is the only species of myxobacteria to mature into the postgenomic phase, and therefore, this chapter focuses on this organism. The chapter begins with a discussion with genomic screens using transposable elements, continues with the paralogous analysis of gene families, and concludes with whole-genome yeast two-hybrid (Y2H) assays. Availability of the M. xanthus genome sequence makes the paralogous characterization of gene families possible. Both of the findings presented in the chapter are significant because they represent how the application of a genome sequence can aid in the identification of genes involved in specific processes such as development and vegetative growth. All of the postgenomics methods presented in the chapter focus on using the genome sequence to facilitate the characterization of genes using experimental techniques. One of the ultimate goals of myxobacterial genomics is to determine the complete set of genetic networks that contribute to the complex life cycle of the myxobacteria. Making sense of these data will require the concerted effort of the whole community of those involved in myxobacterial research to pool resources and share data. Exploratory work using microarrays is currently under way in an effort to identify the temporal expression of genes under a host of different environmental conditions. This work has thus far yielded insight into the number of genes associated with transcriptional activators (TAs) under vegetative conditions.
Shakespeare: The Authorship Question, A Bayesian Approach

Bayesian probability theory can be helpful in organizing the multiple evaluations required in analyzing complex problems that involve the comparison of several hypotheses on the basis of several datasets. The problem of deciding the authorship of the Shakespeare literary material falls under this heading. We here discuss just one aspect of this major problem: whether or not the available evidence indicates that ''William Shakspere,'' of Stratford-upon- Avon, was a writer. We consider twenty-four known writers who lived in England at the same time as Shakspere. For each of these writers, and for Shakspere, we follow Price in considering whether or not there exists evidence in each of ten categories relevant to the literary profession. We find that there is evidence conforming to at least three categories for each comparison author, but none for Shakspere. We evaluate the probability, based on this information, that Shakspere was a writer similar to the twenty-four comparison writers. According to this analysis of Price's data, we find that there is only one chance in 100,000 that Shakspere was a writer. These considerations support the heretical view that Shakspere was not the author of the Shakespeare material. It is generally - but not universally - assumed that the plays and poems asso- ciated with the name ''Shakespeare'' were written by a man who was born and raised, and died and was buried, in Stratford-upon-Avon in the county of Warwickshire in the West Country of England, ninety miles northwest of London. For recent accounts of the orthodox ''Stratfordian'' position, and for references to supporting material, one may refer for instance to Bryson (2007) and Honan (1998). The available records refer to the ''Stratford'' person variously as ''Shackespere,'' ''Shackspeare,'' ''Shackspere,'' ''Shagspere,'' ''Shakespere,'' ''Shakespre,'' ''Shakspare,'' ''Shakspeare,'' ''Shaxper,'' ''Shaxpere,'' and ''Shexpere,'' as well as ''Shakespeare.'' It is convenient to follow Price (2001) in referring to the man from Stratford as ''Shakspere,'' reserving the name ''Shakespeare'' for
Semiconductor Optoelectronic Devices

Elemental and compound semiconductors electronic properties of semiconductors optical processes in semiconductors junction theory light-emitting diodes lasers - operating principles lasers - structures and properties photodetectors special detection schemes solar cells opto-electronic modulation and switching devices opto-electronic integrated circuits.
On the Validation of a One-Dimensional Biomass Pyrolysis Model Using Uncertainty Quantification

Predictive modeling tools have the potential to accelerate the development and deployment of biomass thermochemical conversion. Considerable progress has been made in the modeling of biomass pyrolysis at the particle level, where chemical kinetics and transport processes are coupled. However, rigorous validation of the corresponding models is challenging because of the considerable uncertainty in the values of several biomass properties. Toward this end, we use the principles of uncertainty quantification (UQ) for a rigorous analysis of the validity of a commonly used one-dimensional wood pyrolysis model. Uncertainty in the modeling parameters of the transport processes is propagated to the simulation results of the pyrolysis model. The model predictions are compared with several detailed experimental measurements for pyrolysis of wood particles. The results show that the uncertainty in the model predictions account for some of the discrepancies with the experimental measurements, especially for the parti...
Celiac Plexus Block and Neurolysis: A Review

Pain is often associated with chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer. Often times opioids are used to treat pain; however, the use of opioids is frequently difficult. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided celiac plexus block and celiac plexus nuerolysis are safe and effective modalities used to alleviate pain. Celiac plexus block is a transient interruption of the plexus by local anesthetic, while celiac plexus neurolysis is prolonged interruption of the transmission of pain from the celiac plexus using chemical ablation. Celiac plexus block is generally performed in the unilateral position, while celiac plexus neurolysis is performed in the unilateral or bilateral position.
Re-Regulating Loncheras, Food Trucks, and their Clientele: Navigating Bureaucracy and Enforcement in New Orleans

After Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans, newly arrived loncheras , or taco trucks, provided an invaluable and overlooked service, feeding cleanup crews and reconstruction workers. Yet despite the important role these Latinx food vendors continue to fill and their growing popularity among the non-Latinx community, these entrepreneurs face challenges in accessing political and cultural legitimacy. Situating the experiences of lonchera vendors within the larger political economy of U.S. immigration legislation and food truck policy demonstrates how national trends, instead of local realities, are used to shape policies that impact these food vendors. This article uses an ethnographic framework based in New Orleans to argue that the regulation of loncheras maps onto the criminalization of immigrant communities through an emphasis on licensing and documentation. Juxtaposing the case studies of two mobile food vendors, Mateo and Magda—both undocumented—allows for a critical analysis of the ways immigrants navigate bureaucratic systems to make ends meet.
Myocarditis in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy After Changing Steroids

Importance Cardiac dysfunction is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). This case highlights the importance of steroids in treating cardiac complications of DMD and the dangers of discontinuing or switching between steroid classes. Objective To recognize the presentation of acute myocardial inflammation, or dystrophinitis, in DMD, which presents as myocarditis and to treat the myocardial inflammation and dilated cardiomyopathy associated with DMD through guideline-directed medical therapy, steroids, and serial surveillance for cardiac dysfunction. Design, Setting, and Participant A case report of an 18-year-old patient with DMD and with steroid withdrawal–induced myocarditis followed up for 3 years to observe for cardiac function recovery and the natural history of cardiomyopathy in DMD, who was hospitalized in the cardiac care unit and followed up between November 3, 2016, and March 27, 2017. Exposures Switching from deflazacort to underdosed prednisone for 7 days. Main Outcomes and Measures Increased myocardial inflammation, edema, and fibrosis after stopping deflazacort abruptly. Results An 18-year-old male patient with DMD presented to the emergency department with acute-onset chest pain. Ischemic changes were present on electrocardiogram, and elevated cardiac enzymes were detected. Depressed cardiac function and potential evidence of inflammation were seen on cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging, characterized by elevated T2 values and late gadolinium enhancement. These findings were all consistent with acute myocarditis but without a viral prodrome. Several days prior to presentation, the patient’s deflazacort was abruptly discontinued and converted to an equivalent dose of prednisone. After restarting deflazacort, his symptoms improved, and subsequent CMR showed resolution of myocardial edema and improved left ventricular function. Conclusions and Relevance This case highlights adverse effects associated with changing between corticosteroid classes in DMD cardiomyopathy and also demonstrates the utility of CMR in detecting myocardial inflammation and monitoring response to treatment.
Increased incidence of surgical site infection with a body mass index ≥ 35 kg/m2 following abdominal wall reconstruction with open component separation.

To quantify the impact of body mass index (BMI) on surgical site infection (SSI) following abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR) using component separation techniques and attempt to identify obesity-related targets, such as BMI, that can be potentially used to guide preoperative patient optimization. Though AWR has established perioperative outcomes for hernia repair, the applicability in the obese population is not well established. The 2005–2013 ACS-NSQIP participant use file was reviewed to compare SSI, severe, and overall morbidity in non-emergent AWR patients based on BMI. Multivariable logistic regression was used to control for patient demographics and comorbidities. Odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals were reported. We identified 4488 patients. The average BMI was 32.76 ± 7.70 kg/m2. The majority of cases (76.8%) had wound classified as clean. The SSI rate significantly increased at a BMI of ≥ 35 kg/m2 compared to 40. After controlling for differences in baseline characteristics and wound classification, BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2 was independently associated with SSI (OR 1.47, 1.21–1.78), minor complications (OR 1.65, 1.41–1.94), major complications (OR 1.91, 1.60–2.27), re-operation (OR 1.59, 1.23–2.05), and hospital re-admission (OR 1.93, 1.23–3.02). There is a significant increase in SSI and other perioperative complications in patients with a BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2 undergoing AWR. Higher BMI is also independently associated with higher resource utilization in this patient population. Severely obese patients in need of AWR may benefit from a structured preoperative weight loss intervention.
Clinical Interventions to Reduce Suicidal Behaviors in Hispanic Adolescents: A Scoping Review:

Purpose:A significant portion of adolescents who engage in suicidal behaviors are of Hispanic origin, yet little is known regarding interventions to reduce suicidal behaviors among Hispanic adolesc...
Interplay between Solubility Limit, Structure, and Optical Properties of Tungsten-Doped Ga2O3 Compounds Synthesized by a Two-Step Calcination Process.

This work unfolds the fundamental mechanisms and demonstrates the tunable optical properties derived via chemical composition tailoring in tungsten (W)-doped gallium oxide (Ga2O3) compounds. On the basis of the detailed investigation, the solubility limits of tungsten (W6+) ion and associated effects on the crystal structure, morphology, and optical properties of W-doped Ga2O3 (Ga2–2xWxO3, 0.00 ≤ x ≤ 0.25, GWO) compounds are reported. GWO materials were synthesized via a conventional solid-state reaction route, where a two-step calcination is adopted to produce materials with a high structural and chemical quality. X-ray diffraction analyses of sintered GWO compounds reveal the formation of a solid solution of GWO compounds at lower concentrations W (x ≤ 0.10), while unreacted WO3 secondary phase formation occurs at higher concentrations (x>0.10). Insolubility of W at higher concentrations (x ≥ 0.15) is attributed to the difference in formation enthalpies of respective oxides, i.e., Ga2O3 and WO3. GWO com...
Surface functionalization of Pt nanoparticles with metal chlorides for bifunctional CO oxidation

Abstract Incorporation of a metal oxide or hydroxide species into Pt-based electrocatalysts has been shown to lower the overpotential required to oxidatively remove carbon monoxide from the catalyst surface, a reaction that is critical to preventing catalyst poisoning and deactivation in fuel cell devices. In this work, we report a general synthetic method toward Pt-metal oxide composite nanoparticles via the adsorption of metal halide ligands onto 1–2 nm colloidal Pt nanoparticles. Pt-metal oxide composite nanoparticles spanning across the first-row transition metals and post-transition metals are synthesized and characterized with transmission electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray scattering. CO stripping and steady-state CO oxidation experiments reveal that Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, and In oxides are capable of participating in the catalysis as a bifunctional partner and reduce the overpotential required for CO electrooxidation by ∼200 mV relative to pure Pt.
Policy-Based Function-Centric Computation Offloading for Real-Time Drone Video Analytics

Computer vision applications are increasingly used on mobile Internet-of-Things (IoT) devices such as drones. They provide real-time support in disaster/incident response or crowd protest management scenarios by e.g., counting human/vehicles, or recognizing faces/objects. However, deployment of such applications for real-time video analytics at geo-distributed areas presents new challenges in processing intensive media-rich data to meet users’ Quality of Experience (QoE) expectations, due to limited computing power on the devices. In this paper, we present a novel policy-based decision computation offloading scheme that not only facilitates trade-offs in performance vs. cost, but also aids in offloading decision to either an Edge, Cloud or Function-Centric Computing resource architecture for real-time video analytics. To evaluate our offloading scheme, we decompose an existing computer vision pipeline for object/motion detection and object classification into a chain of container-based micro-service functions that communicate via a RESTful API. We evaluate the performance of our scheme on a realistic geo-distributed edge/core cloud testbed using different policies and computing architectures. Results show how our scheme utilizes state-of-the-art computation offloading techniques to Pareto-optimally trade-off performance (i.e., frames-per-second) vs. cost factors (using Amazon Web Services Lambda pricing) during real-time drone video analytics, and thus fosters effective environmental situational awareness.
Kill switch: The evolution of road rage in an increasingly AI car culture

Abstract Peoples' roles with cars will evolve from driver to passenger as consumers turn increasingly to autonomous vehicles (AVs), technology that will become common in new automobiles in the next few years. For AVs to gain rapid acceptance and adoption across a broad consumer market, understanding how users will respond to the technology and their experience as nondriving passengers becomes important to examine. This chapter frames a discussion about understanding what might cause negatively stressful experiences that lead to aggressive behaviors by users in an autonomous car environment where artificial intelligence is in some or all control of the vehicle. Adopting a view based in territoriality and via the lens of attachment theory, this work is an exploration of the emerging design concepts for autonomous cars as an extension of the home, living, or workspace, and the related idea of these spaces then being perceived by users as primary territory weighted with emotional attachment, and what happens when our territorial borders are invaded or our territorial defenses are piqued.
Gas storage in coal

Abstract The gas storage mechanisms in coal differ significantly from conventional gas reservoirs. Coal is both the reservoir rock and the source rock. While much of the gas generated during coalification migrated out of the coal seam, significant quantities remain in coal that can be produced from a seam by understanding and evaluating the unique properties of coal. Unlike conventional gas reservoirs where the gases exist in a free state in the pores of the reservoir rock, the vast majority of the gases in the coal are stored by adsorption. To estimate the gas resources in coal, both the gas content and sorption capacity of the coal must be determined. The gas content of coal defines the amount of gas in the coal at initial reservoir pressure and temperature. The sorption capacity defines the upper limit gas concentration (i.e., maximum adsorptive capacity) as a function of pressure. The sorption capacity is typically represented by sorption isotherm. Both the gas content and sorption isotherm must be measured from recovered coal samples (cores). Desorption isotherm and gas content are also necessary for simulating recovery of methane to develop economic gas production strategies and production forecasting from coalbed methane wells.
Chapter 139 – Hypertensive Encephalopathy

Hypertensive encephalopathy is characterized by acute hypertension leading to a clinical syndrome with characteristic radiological findings. The clinical findings include encephalopathy, seizures, headache, visual disturbances, and focal neurological deficits. It is now commonly recognized that hypertensive encephalopathy represents one of the etiologies of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES). It is critical to recognize this syndrome early since this allows for rapid treatment and a good overall prognosis. The underlying pathophysiology leading to PRES is incompletely understood. Fortunately, the treatment of hypertensive encephalopathy is relatively straightforward and most patients make a complete recovery.
Series LC Resonance-Pulse Based Zero-Current-Switching Current-Fed Half-Bridge DC-DC Converter

This paper proposes a novel zero-current switching (ZCS) current-fed half-bridge DC-DC converter for high voltage gain applications. The proposed converter enables soft-commutation at device turn-off by utilizing resonance between transformer leakage inductance and a series capacitor placed on the primary side of the high frequency transformer. Existing current-fed converters experience turn-off voltage spikes and uses several methods to achieve soft switching which further increases circulating current and limit soft commutation at light-loads. To address these limitations, series LC resonance pulse structure has been proposed where variable frequency control with variable duty is employed to achieve ZCS operation over wide range of load and input variations. Operation of the proposed converter is presented and validated with simulation and experimental results for 500W laboratory prototype.
O24 Small Swaps, Big Changes: Sodium Reduction in School and Community Meals

Objective Use process and outcome evaluation techniques to evaluate a Sodium Reduction in Communities Program implemented with 58 schools, 17 early childhood education (ECE) centers, and 5 community meals programs across northwest Arkansas. Use of Theory or Research Increased sodium consumption is associated with increased risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease, and sodium reduction is associated with numerous health benefits. Community-based participatory research and behavioral economics approaches were used to develop tailored strategies to reduce sodium. Target Audience The target audience includes program staff, K-12 and ECE students and staff, low-income individuals accessing community meals, and managers of partner programs. Program Description A variety of sodium reduction strategies, including ingredient substitutions, meal/menu modifications, standardized purchasing lists, and behavioral economics were implemented across all sites to reduce the sodium content of meals. Evaluation Methods To evaluate program implementation, data were collected at baseline and annually thereafter. Evaluation data were collected via detailed menu information, production records, point-of-sale records, purchasing lists, and interviews with program staff. Each year, evaluation findings are used to improve program activities. Results The program now reaches more than 50,000 individuals per day. To date, 90 menu items have been affected by recipe modification across all sites. From Baseline to Year 3, the sodium content of entrees offered, entrees served, and meals served in schools decreased 13.5%, 4.7%, and 3.8%, respectively. Among ECEs and community meals, the sodium content of meals offered and meals served decreased 39.4% and 18.8%, respectively, from Baseline to Year 3. Conclusion Sodium reduction strategies in schools, ECEs, and community meals programs lead to a reduction in sodium served to students, staff, and clients. The program will continue to be expanded and enhanced using process and outcomes evaluation findings, ultimately leading to a reduction in sodium consumption and chronic disease incidence in northwest Arkansas. Funding Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
18F-FDG PET/CT improves the staging of patients with low grade non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma as compared to PET and CT alone

489 Objectives: The aim of the present study was to compare the accuracy of integrated F-18 FDG positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) to that of positron emission tomography (PET) and computed tomography (CT) alone for clinical staging of patients with low grade non-Hodgkin lymphoma (LGNHL). Methods: 47 patients (21 f, 26 m; age range 19 – 86 years) with LGNHL underwent initial staging (n=21) or restaging (n=26) with intravenous contrast enhanced FGD PET/CT. The most common histopathological type was follicular lymphoma. PET and CT images were interpreted independently and separately by an experienced radiologist (CT) and Nuclear Medicine physician (PET) blinded to any clinical information. PET/CT images were read in a joint session by both readers. Focally increased FDG above normal physiological background activity was considered abnormal. CT lesions were classified as positive by conventional anatomical and lymph node size criteria. Lymph nodes were considered positive by PET/CT if they exhibited increased FDG uptake or abnormal size regardless of FDG uptake. Extra-nodal lesions were considered abnormal on PET/CT if they demonstrated increased FDG uptake above normal background activity or pathological features, regardless of FDG uptake. Based upon image interpretation, a stage was assigned using the Ann Arbor classification. Histopathological findings, correlative imaging studies, and clinical follow up served as the standard of reference. Results: Compared to CT, PET/CT correctly upstaged 3 patients (6%). CT missed disease in several lymph nodes and in an adrenal gland. PET/CT identified the correct stage in an additional 11 patients (23%) compared to PET alone. PET/CT correctly upstaged 8 patients (assigned a wrong stage on PET because of lack of abnormal FDG uptake in pathological appearing structures on CT) and correctly downstaged 3 patients (physiological uptake in the thyroid falsely interpreted as a cervical lymph node, increased activity in an inguinal lymph node falsely placed into bone and a bone lesion with increased FDG uptake clearly identified as Paget’s disease on CT). Overall PET/CT arrived at the correct stage in 37 (79%), PET in 30 (64%) and CT in 34 (72%) patients. Conclusions: PET/CT improves staging of LGNHL and would have led to clinically important changes in staging of patients compared to both PET and CT.
Virtual Family-Centered Rounds in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial.

Abstract Objectives To measure the feasibility, reach, and potential impact of a virtual family-centered rounds (FCR) intervention in the neonatal intensive care unit. Methods We conducted a randomized controlled pilot trial with a 2:1 intervention-to-control arm allocation ratio. Caregivers of intervention arm neonates were invited to participate in virtual FCR plus standard of care. We specified 5 feasibility objectives. We profiled intervention usage by neonatal and maternal characteristics. Exploratory outcomes included FCR caregiver attendance, length of stay, breast milk feeding at discharge, caregiver experience, and medical errors. We performed descriptive analyses to calculate proportions, means, and rates with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results We included 74 intervention and 36 control subjects. Three of the five feasibility objectives were met based on the point estimates. The recruitment and intervention uptake objectives were not achieved. Among intervention arm subjects, recruitment of a caregiver occurred for 47 (63.5%, 95% CI 51.5%–74.4%) neonates. Caregiver use of the intervention occurred for 36 (48.6%, 95% CI 36.8%–60.6%) neonates in the intervention arm. Feasibility objectives assessing technical issues, burden, and data collection were achieved. Among the attempted virtual encounters, 95.0% (95% CI 91.5%–97.3%) had no technical issues. The survey response rate was 87.5% (95% CI 78.2%–93.8%). Intervention arm neonates had 3.36 (95% CI 2.66%–4.23) times the FCR caregiver attendance rate of subjects in the control arm. Conclusions A randomized trial to compare virtual FCR to standard of care in neonatal subjects is feasible and has potential to improve patient and caregiver outcomes.
Effects of Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Initiation on Oxygenation and Pulmonary Opacities.

Introduction There is limited data on the impact of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) on pulmonary physiology and imaging in adult patients. The current study sought to evaluate the serial changes in oxygenation and pulmonary opacities after ECMO initiation. Methods Records of patients started on veno-venous, or veno-arterial ECMO were reviewed (n=33; mean (SD): age 50(16) years; Male: Female 20:13). Clinical and laboratory variables before and after ECMO, including daily PaO2 to FiO2 ratio (PFR), were recorded. Daily chest radiographs (CXR) were prospectively appraised in a blinded fashion and scored for the extent and severity of opacities using an objective scoring system. Results ECMO was associated with impaired oxygenation as reflected by the drop in median PFR from 101 (interquartile range, IQR: 63-151) at the initiation of ECMO to a post-ECMO trough of 74 (IQR: 56-98) on post-ECMO day 5. However, the difference was not statistically significant. The appraisal of daily CXR revealed progressively worsening opacities, as reflected by a significant increase in the opacity score (Wilk's Lambda statistic 7.59, p=0.001). During the post-ECMO period, a >10% increase in the opacity score was recorded in 93.9% of patients. There was a negative association between PFR and opacity scores, with an average one-unit decrease in the PFR corresponding to a +0.010 increase in the opacity score (95% confidence interval: 0.002 to 0.019, p-value=0.0162). The median opacity score on each day after ECMO initiation remained significantly higher than the pre-ECMO score. The most significant increase in the opacity score (9, IQR: -8 to 16) was noted on radiographs between pre-ECMO and forty-eight hours post-ECMO. The severity of deteriorating oxygenation or pulmonary opacities was not associated with hospital survival. Conclusions The use of ECMO is associated with an increase in bilateral opacities and a deterioration in oxygenation that starts early and peaks around 48 hours after ECMO initiation.
Transaxillary Stenting of LVAD Outflow Graft Obstruction.

Abstract An 82-year-old man with a HeartMate II left ventricular assist device presented with low-flow alarms and cardiogenic shock secondary to left ventricular assist device outflow graft obstruc...
On the Ability of Synthetic Aperture Radar to Measure Ocean Waves

The SEASAT satellite system, using an onboard 23-cm-wavelength synthetic aperture radar (SAR), collected approximately 25- to 40-m-resolution radar images of the ocean in 100-km-wide swaths ranging in length from about 300 to 3000 km. Here we report results from the 18 SEASAT SAR passes during the Joint Air-Sea Interaction (JASIN) experiment conducted off the west coast of Scotland in the summer of 1978. These many SAR images, when coupled with the intensive ship, buoy, and aircraft measurements of the JASIN experiment, provide a unique opportunity to assess the ability of satellite SAR to measure ocean surface phenomena, particularly surface wave fields. In this study we use only optically processed SAR images. Although gravity waves of length approximately 80 to 300 m are often seen in SAR imagery, they are not always seen. We find that SAR resolution and wave height are important criteria for determining wave visibility and suggest that wind velocity is also. Comparisons between SAR and buoy estimates of dominant wavelength and direction (including data from several other experiments) agree to within about ±14% and ± 10°, respectively. We use a focus sharpness algorithm to resolve the 180° directional ambiguity of SAR image directional estimates. Correlation of buoy measurements of significant wave height (H 1/3) with peak signal- to-noise ratio in Fourier transforms of SAR images (r = 0.7) suggests that H 1/3 can be estimated to an accuracy of about ± 1 m. However, a similar, but weaker, correlation exists between signal-to-noise and wave length, i.e., H 1/3 and wavelength are correlated in the JASIN data set. SAR image power spectra are in rough agreement with buoy measurements of omnidirectional ocean wave height spectra Ψ(K) and correspond less closely with ocean wave slope spectra Ψ(K) However, the dominant wavenumber (Kpeak.) in SAR spectra typically falls below the dominant wavenumber of corresponding buoy spectra. Further, the slope of SAR spectra for K K Peak is typically less steep than corresponding buoy spectra Ψ(K). These differences between SAR spectra and buoy measurements of form qualitative support for the imaging mechanisms developed by Alpers, Ross, and Rufenach. Analysis algorithms based on this theory, but including empirical modifications, should substantially improve estimates of Ψ (K,θ) using SAR images.