cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Party Dominance in 18 Countries: The Role of Party Dominance in the Transmission of Political Ideology

Abstract. Using OLS regression with World Values Survey data across 18 OECD countries, this article makes two major arguments. Firstly, if a dominant party is ideologically congruent with an individual, its dominance enhances the effect of party ideology on individual ideology. If incongruent, greater dominance only inhibits this effect. Secondly, if individuals find the dominant party ideologically congruent, as their political awareness increases, the effect of that party's ideology rises monotonically. If incongruent, the effect of party ideology first rises and then falls back. Therefore, party dominance leads ultimately to increasing ideological polarization between the dominant party's supporters and opponents. Resume. Cet article vise a presenter deux arguments importants en appliquant la “ regression OLS ” aux donnees du “ World Values Survey ” sur 18 pays de l'OCDE. En premier lieu, s'il y a congruence entre l'ideologie d'un parti dominant et celle de l'individu, la dominance du parti renforce l'effet d'ideologie de parti sur l'ideologie de l'individu. S'il n'y a pas congruence d'ideologies, une dominance plus marquee du parti ne fait qu'entraver davantage cet effet. En second lieu, si les individus trouvent l'ideologie du parti dominant conforme a la leur, au fur et a mesure qu'augmente leur conscience politique, l'effet de l'ideologie de ce parti augmente de facon uniforme. Si l'ideologie du parti dominant n'est pas conforme a la leur, l'effet d'ideologie de parti commence par grandir pour ensuite retomber. Ainsi, la predominance de parti mene finalement a une polarisation ideologique croissante entre les partisans du parti dominant et ses opposants.
Intelligent coordination of multiple systems with neural networks

Many control applications require cooperation of two or more independently designed, separately located, but mutually affecting, subsystems. In addition to the good behavior of each subsystem, effective coordination of these subsystems is very important to achieve the desired overall system peformance. However, such coordination is very difficult to accomplish due mainly to the lack of precise system models and/or dynamic parameters as well as the lack of efficient tools for system analysis, design, and real-time computation of optimal solution. In this paper, we propose a new multiple-system coordinator which combines the techniques of intelligent control and neural networks, and forms the high-level coordinator in a hierarchical structure. The basic idea is to estimate the effects of the control commands to subsystems using a predictor and modify these commands using a knowledge-based coordinator so as to achieve tie desired performance. The predictor is designed for multiple-input, multiple-output systems using neural networks. The knowledge-based coordinator is responsible for knowledge acquisition and representation, inference process, and the overall system stability. Because the internal structure and parameters of the low level are not affected by using the proposed method, some commercially-designed servo controller for single systems can be coordinated to perform more sophisticated tasks for multiple systems than originally intended.
Penalized multivariate Whittle likelihood for power spectrum estimation

Nonparametric estimation procedures that can flexibly account for varying levels of smoothness among different functional parameters, such as penalized likelihoods, have been developed in a variety of settings. However, geometric constraints on power spectra have limited the development of such methods when estimating the power spectrum of a vector-valued time series. This article introduces a penalized likelihood approach to nonparametric multivariate spectral analysis through the minimization of a penalized Whittle negative loglikelihood. This likelihood is derived from the large-sample distribution of the periodogram and includes a penalty function that forms a measure of regularity on multivariate power spectra. The approach allows for varying levels of smoothness among spectral components while accounting for the positive definiteness of spectral matrices and the Hermitian and periodic structures of power spectra as functions of frequency. The consistency of the proposed estimator is derived and its empirical performance is demonstrated in a simulation study and in an analysis of indoor air quality. Copyright 2013, Oxford University Press.
Gene Patenting and Public Policy

This article discusses a variety of public policy issues relating to gene patenting. Public policy issues discussed include privacy and cloning, some of the economic considerations of obtaining gene patents, the legal environment of gene patenting, and the legalities and special problems that result when attempting to determine what the law should be in this area. Finally, the author reviews the objections that have been raised regarding the legal patenting of genes and examines some moral issues.
NMR studies of alkali C60 superconductors

The authors report13C,87Rb,39K, and133Cs nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) measurements of lineshapes, Knight shifts, and spin-lattice relaxation rates in the normal and superconducting states of M3C60, where M3 = Rb3, K3, Rb2K, RbK2, Rb2Cs, and RbCs2. Measurements are used as a guide to a new ammonia solvent synthesis technique. Temperature dependence of the superconducting state electron spin susceptibility is found to follow BCS weak coupling predictions. The issue of the Hebel-Slichter coherence peak is addressed.
Searching Visual Displays: The Role of Attention

Previous research suggests that (a) target localization tasks, (b) apprehension of spatial relations among stimuli, (c) critical features shared between target and non-target stimuli, and (d) mirror-image symmetry between target and non-targets each place demands on attention, resulting in poor search performance caused by capacity limitations. But, are these performance deficits actually caused by capacity limitations? Perhaps they are caused by early, pre-attentive visual processing or by noisy decision making instead of capacity limitations. If so, this has implications for the design of “user-friendly” displays to facilitate search performance. To address these questions, we controlled sensory effects and systematically varied the complexity and number of stimuli as well as whether non-targets were mirror-images of the target. Comparisons of data to theoretical predictions showed that capacity limitations occurred only when the target shared critical features with complex non-target stimuli, so that o...
Corn Earworm and Fall Armyworm Occurrence and Control on Sweet Corn Ears in South Florida

Studies of populations in field over five-year period, 1967–72, showed Heliothis zea (Boddie) to be the principal insect pest on the ears of sweet corn in south Florida. Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) also was regularly present, and in certain seasons it was the dominant species. Evaluations of chemical and biological insecticides for control of these insects were made fall spring 1917-72 as a continuation of work previously reported. Among several insecticides tested, Dipel® ( Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner) + corn oil, leptophos, methomyl, monocrotophos, and acephate gave 95 percent or higher injury-free sweet corn ears when applied at 2- to 3-day intervals against predominantly S. frugiperda . Malathion also was effective but at high application rate.
Superconducting properties of Y–Ba–Cu–O Compounds

Superconducting properties of Y–Ba–Cu–O compounds have been studied by resistivity, current-voltage characteristics, ac susceptibility, x-ray diffraction, and reverse ac Josephson effect measurements. The results are described in terms of granular superconductivity with the Josephson coupling depending upon composition and annealing conditions. In several mixed phase compounds, the presence of Josephson coupled grains have been detected at 240 K by the reverse ac Josephson effect.
Capillary Gas Chromatography in the Determination of Dicyclopentadiene in the Air

[Objective] To explore the application of capillary gas chromatography in the determination of dicyclopentadiene in the Air. [Methods] Capillary gas chromatography was applied to collect samples with active charcoal tubes and separate with capillary columns. [Results] The effect of dicyclopentadiene separation using 30 m FFAP capillary column was proved to be better than using the current packed column; the methodological indexes like the precision and detection limit all accorded with the requirement in the "Criteria for the Toxic Substance Surveillance in the Air of the Workplaces". [Conclusion]This method is applicable for the determination of dicyclopentadiene in the air of the workplaces.
Gallstone formation in obese women treated by a low-calorie diet

This study assessed the incidence of gallstone formation in 47 obese women who consumed a low-calorie diet (LCD) for the first 16 weeks of a 26-week weight loss program. The LCD consisted of four daily servings of a liquid diet combined with an evening meal of a pre-packaged dinner entree and provided approximately 925 kcal/d. Six of the 47 patients (12.8%) displayed gallstones at week 17, as determined by sonography. Five patients were asymptomatic when followed for up to 48 weeks. The sixth, however, reported severe abdominal pain 30 weeks after beginning treatment and required a cholecystectomy. Patients who developed gallstones, as compared with those who did not, had significantly higher baseline triglyceride and total cholesterol levels and had a significantly greater rate of weight loss. Results of this study indicate that an increased risk of gallstones is not limited to very-low-calorie diets and that the incidence of this complication should be assessed in persons who consume popular over-the-counter meal replacement plans.
Extruding Loops to Make Loopy Globules

Each human cell contains over two meters worth of DNA, and this DNA is not only packed in the nucleus, but also organized in three dimensions (3D) as an addressable memory. Furthermore, it is becoming clear that 3D organization is actively used in biological world to realize and control a variety of functions and feedback loops. The advent of chromosome conformation capture, 3C, and subsequent family of 4C, 5C, and Hi-C methods, mostly due to Dekker and coworkers (1,2), revolutionized the field.
Torsional Abnormalities in Children's Lower Extremities

SUMMARY Rotational problems of the lower extremities represent a very common referral group in a pediatric orthopedic practice. With careful physical examination, an accurate diagnosis can actually be made without complex roentgenographic measurements. A clear understanding of the pathology and a discussion of its natural history is important in helping families to understand the problem and to care for children with these conditions. Treatment in the majority of cases is conservative; surgery is only rarely indicated.
Enhancing the performance of GepFETs using novel BF + implantation

With the highest bulk hole mobility among the commonly used semiconductors, Ge is particularly promising as the enabler of high mobility channel for pFETs in future CMOS technology nodes. So far, ion-implanted B is typically used for the formation of S/D extensions or highly doped drains (HDD) in short channel Ge pFETs [1-3]. Although B is found to diffuse extremely slowly in Ge after annealing [4], facilitating the formation of ultra shallow junction, there are two drawbacks for implanting B+ in Ge. First, as shown in Fig. 1, in the low energy regime, the percentage of implanted B+ lost in Ge is >3X higher than in Si, partially negating the expected lower resistance in Ge for the same implant dose. Second, the activation of implanted B in crystalline Ge is reported to be much lower compared to that in a-Ge, which requires an additional pre-amorphization implantation (PAI) step [5]. It is worth noting that for Si pFETs, BF 2 + is usually favored for the formation of shallow S/D due to its higher ionization rate and heavier mass compared to B+, but in Ge, the understanding of diffusion and activation of B in the presence of F is still lacking. In this work, a comprehensive study of activation, diffusion as well as defect formation for B+, BF+, and BF 2 + implants in Ge is reported. For the first time, high performance Ge pFETs are fabricated using BF+ implant for S/D junctions, demonstrating a higher ON current as compared to pFETs using B+ and BF 2 + implants.
TARGET FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE AND TAKEOVER PRICING

In a large sample of U.S. takeovers, we find that acquisitions of targets with greater financial independence are associated with higher takeover premiums and lower acquirer announcement returns. This empirical result is most consistent with targets' deriving bargaining power from their financial independence. Raising external funds is costly. Targets that do not depend on external funds do not need new external capital and have no reason to acquiesce potential takeover premium to acquirers that can provide capital. Therefore, more financially independent targets should be in stronger bargaining positions vis-a-vis potential acquirers, leading to the effect on takeover pricing that we observe.
Genetics Underlying an Individualized Approach to Adult Spinal Disorders.

Adult spinal disorders are a significant cause of morbidity across the world and carry significant health and economic burdens. Genetic predispositions are increasingly considered for these conditions and are becoming understood. Advances in molecular technologies since the mid-1990s have made possible genetic characterizations of these diseases in many populations, and recent findings have provided insight into the underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms. These studies have made clear the genetic heterogeneity producing clinical phenotypes and suggest that individualized treatments are possible in the future. We review the genetics of cervical spondylotic myelopathy, ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament, and adult lumbar scoliotic deformity, highlighting recent genetic discoveries and the potential for personalized future therapeutics for these patients.
Underlying Motivations of Volunteering Across Life Stages: A Study of Volunteers in Nonprofit Organizations in Nevada:

Volunteering is beneficial not only for individuals' well-being but also for society's well-being; yet only a fraction of U.S. citizens regularly engage in volunteer activities. This study examined how underlying motivations are associated with interest in volunteering for individuals in three major life phases: early, middle, and later adulthood. Data were collected from 1,046 adults who volunteered through nonprofit organizations in Nevada (USA). Exploratory factor analysis revealed that community service, career advancement, and well-being were common underlying motivations for individuals across life stages. However, generativity among the later adulthood group, and social networking among the early and middle adulthood groups were unique motivations for volunteering. Regression analysis showed that the community service motivation was significantly associated with individuals' interest in volunteering among all life stages. Simultaneously, generativity for the later adulthood group, and career advancement for the early adulthood group were unique motivations linked to their actual interest in volunteering.
NASA Past, Present, and Future: The Use of Commercial Off The Shelf (COTS) Electronics in Space

NASA has a long history of using commercial grade electronics in space. In this presentation we will provide a brief history of NASA's trends and approaches to commercial grade electronics focusing on processing and memory systems. This will include providing summary information on the space hazards to electronics as well as NASA mission trade space. We will also discuss developing recommendations for risk management approaches to Electrical, Electronic and Electromechanical (EEE) parts usage in space. Two examples will be provided focusing on a near-earth Polar-orbiting spacecraft as well as a mission to Mars. The final portion will discuss emerging trends impacting usage.
Preliminary Results from the Air Mass Transformation Experiment (AMTEX)

The field phases of AMTEX, a GARP subprogram on air-sea interaction implemented by Japan, were conducted over the East China Sea in the environs of Okinawa, Japan, during the last two weeks of February in 1974 and 1975. Investigators from Australia, Canada, and the United States also participated in this experiment. The weather was generally very favorable for this study of air mass transformation processes in 1975 because of an extensive cold air outbreak during most of the experimental period. A basic synoptic data set was obtained from 6 h soundings from an array of aerological stations centered at Okinawa. In addition, satellite, hourly surface and surface marine, oceanographic, boundary layer, radiation, radar, cloud physics, and aircraft data were obtained and have been or will be available in published data reports or on magnetic tape. Preliminary results from 1974 and 1975 reported at the Fourth AMTEX Study Conference and joint United States–Japan Cooperative Science Program Seminar, “Air Mass Tra...
Accessibility evaluation for multimedia content

Practices supporting Web accessibility are spread out all over the world. However, the accessibility of multimedia content and rich Internet applications has been little discussed. These types of content are using a lot of visual cues and developing new techniques to make their visual interfaces richer. Therefore, it is generally believed that they are not accessible for people with visually disabilities. However, since there is neither objective data nor tools to measure the accessibility of such content, as a first step to tackle these new accessibility issues we focused on the Flash content. A survey was conducted using five metrics based on the problems faced by screen reader users. We developed a survey tool to assess their severity. Our results showed a complete lack of alternative texts from the developers in the sampled pages. Also, more than half of tested pages were hidden to screen reader users. We conclude that most of existing Flash content is not accessible and there is an emerging need to encourage the use of practices that make Flash content accessible.
Stochastic simulations of nanoparticle internalization through transferrin receptor dependent clathrin-mediated endocytosis

Abstract Background Receptor dependent clathrin-mediated endocytosis (CME) is one of the most important endocytic pathways for the internalization of bioparticles into cells. During CME, the ligand-receptor interactions, development of clathrin-coated pit (CCP) and membrane evolution all act together to drive the internalization of bioparticles. In this work, we develop a stochastic computational model to investigate the CME based on the Metropolis Monte Carlo simulations. Methods The model is based on the combination of a stochastic particle binding model with a membrane model. The energetic costs of membrane bending, CCP formation and ligand-receptor interactions are systematically linked together. Results We implement our model to investigate the effects of particle size, ligand density and membrane stiffness on the overall process of CME from the drug delivery perspectives. Consistent with some experiments, our results show that the intermediate particle size and ligand density favor the particle internalization. Moreover, our results show that it is easier for a particle to enter a cell with softer membrane. Conclusions The model presented here is able to provide mechanistic insights into CME and can be readily modified to include other important factors, such as actins. The predictions from the model will aid in the therapeutic design of intracellular/transcellular drug delivery and antiviral interventions.
Augmentation of Services with Semantic Meta-Information in the Physical Web

With greater automation of everyday tasks in the near future, an increased number of cyber physical systems will provide services at dedicated locations. One technology that is well-suited for such applications is the Physical Web, where Bluetooth beacons advertise location-based services to nearby mobile devices. Augmenting the Physical Web with Semantic Web concepts yields service advertisements, in the form of RDF graphs, that can be understood by machines. The potential exists for multiple beacons from different publishers to be at the same location and provide related datasets to offer a richer and more customizable service. However, the existing work considers each beacon to represent a distinct service, impeding the development of such applications. Our approach to address this challenge uses RDF graph merging coupled with inference rules provided by the beacon publisher or user. The inference rules allow for flexible and complete merging, while increasing the mobile device's ability to understand services. We illustrate how with this richer functionality, the Physical Web can be tailored to specialized circumstances. We provide a motivating example in which two distinct parties want to provide cooperative services associated with a single cyber physical system.
Cultural Identification, Acculturation, and Academic Experience Abroad: A Case of a Joint Faculty-Led Short-Term Study Abroad Program

The number of students expanding their academic programs to include learning experiences abroad has been steadily increasing over the past two decades. This study investigates the cultural identification of short-term study abroad participants and its influence on their acculturation process. By means of a widely used acculturation scale, it was found that there were statistically significant effects of cultural experiences on cultural identification, specifically decreases in cultural identification scores. Implications from this study suggest a deeper understanding of students’ ethnic identifications can be helpful in developing study abroad programs that promote the goals of student awareness, cultural sensitivity, and global competence.
Tell Me Before You Stream Me: Managing Information Disclosure in Video Game Live Streaming

Live streaming is a new media format that simultaneously records and broadcasts in real time, in multiple channels including video, audio, and text. A new application area of live streaming is in the video game community, where players stream their gameplay. Since most of the streamed games are team-based, one's live streaming may involve other players' gameplay and disclosure. In the present paper, we aim to understand the attitudes and strategies of players who have been streamed by others in video game live streaming. From an interview study with 20 World of Warcraft (WoW) players, we found that participants had concerns about being streamed due to different factors, and adopted individual and collaborative strategies to cope with their concerns. We discuss privacy challenges in live streaming and present design implications for live streaming tools to improve privacy management.
The window is wide: flexible timing for vitrified-warmed embryo transfer in natural cycles.

Abstract Research question What is the optimal timing for transfer in natural cycle vitrified–warmed embryo transfers (NC-VET)? Design This retrospective cohort study uses data from a large university-affiliated IVF clinic. The study included 341 NC-VET cycles with autologous oocytes and non-preimplantation genetic testing, vitrified embryos from January 2013 to September 2017. Each cycle was classified by timing of embryo transfer in relation to LH surge ≥20 IU/l. Group 1: LH ≥20 IU/l one day and blastocyst was transferred 6 days later; Group 2: LH ≥20 IU/l two consecutive days and blastocyst was transferred 6 days after the initial surge; Group 3: LH ≥20 IU/l two consecutive days and blastocyst was transferred 7 days after the initial surge. The primary outcome was ongoing pregnancy rate (OPR). The secondary objective was to compare OPR in relation to serum oestradiol dynamics and progesterone concentration (according to threshold 1.0 ng/ml) 6 days prior to embryo transfer. Results OPR were similar for all three groups (66.8%, 65.0%, 62.9% for Groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively). When stratified according to oestradiol and progesterone, no significant differences were noted in OPR. Conclusions The results suggest that the timing of blastocyst transfer in a natural cycle after LH surge is flexible within 24 h. Outcomes are equally good with day of embryo transfer 6 or 7 days after LH surge date. Oestradiol dynamics and progesterone concentration 6 days prior to NC-VET did not have a significant impact on OPR.
A Data-Centric Cognitive Gateway with Distributed MIMO for Future Smart Homes

Gateways play very important roles in smart homes. With gateways that can effectively separate applications and physical devices, the smart home architecture can be simplified. In the future, when more and more wireless devices are deployed in smart homes, gateways are facing critical challenges to accommodate the variety and heterogeneity of devices while maintaining enough simplicity, full interoperability, high energy and spectrum efficiency, and uncompromised system security. In this article, we first study the-state-of-the-art techniques and solutions for smart home infrastructure and present both their advantages and disadvantages. Then we propose a data-centric cognitive gateway, which is simple, efficient, and secure for smart homes. In addition, we investigate the trade-off among deployment cost, routine maintenance overhead, and system security. Our experiments verify the efficiency of our proposed solutions.
Alice's Adventures in the Markovian World.

This paper proposes an algorithm Alice having no access to the physics law of the environment, which is actually linear with stochastic noise, and learns to make decisions directly online without a training phase or a stable policy as initial input. Neither estimating the system parameters nor the value functions online, the proposed algorithm generalizes one of the most fundamental online learning algorithms Follow-the-Leader into a linear Gauss-Markov process setting, with a regularization term similar to the momentum method in the gradient descent algorithm, and a feasible online constraint inspired by Lyapunov's Second Theorem. The proposed algorithm is considered as a mirror optimization to the model predictive control. Only knowing the state-action alignment relationship, with the ability to observe every state exactly, a no-regret proof of the algorithm without state noise is given. The analysis of the general linear system with stochastic noise is shown with a sufficient condition for the no-regret proof. The simulations compare the performance of Alice with another recent work and verify the great flexibility of Alice.
A Mechanical Brain Damage Framework Used to Model Abnormal Brain Tau Protein Accumulations of National Football League Players

A mechanics-based brain damage framework is used to model the abnormal accumulation of hyperphosphorylated p-tau associated with chronic traumatic encephalopathy within the brains of deceased National Football League (NFL) players studied at Boston University and to provide a framework for understanding the damage mechanisms. p-tau damage is formulated as the multiplicative decomposition of three independently evolving damage internal state variables (ISVs): nucleation related to number density, growth related to the average area, and coalescence related to the nearest neighbor distance. The ISVs evolve under different rates for three well known mechanical boundary conditions, which in themselves introduce three different rates making a total of nine scenarios, that we postulate are related to brain damage progression: (1) monotonic overloads, (2) cyclic fatigue which corresponds to repetitive impacts, and (3) creep which is correlated to damage accumulation over time. Different NFL player positions are described to capture the different types of damage progression. Skill position players, such as quarterbacks, are expected to exhibit a greater p-tau protein accumulation during low cycle fatigue (higher amplitude impacts with a lesser number), and linemen who exhibit a greater p-tau protein accumulation during high cycle fatigue (lower amplitude impacts with a greater number of impacts). This mechanics-based damage framework presents a foundation for developing a multiscale model for traumatic brain injury that combines mechanics with biology.
The priorities of neurologists for exercise promotion in comprehensive multiple sclerosis care

Abstract Background Fewer than 20% of persons with multiple sclerosis (MS) engage in sufficient amounts of exercise for experiencing health and wellness benefits. Neurologists have a powerful and influential relationship among patients, highlighting the potential for the patient-provider interaction to be a gateway for promoting exercise behavior. Neurologists, however, are under-supported and under-resourced for promoting exercise in comprehensive MS care. The purpose of this study was to determine the priorities of neurologists for exercise promotion among patients in comprehensive MS care and, where possible, provide suggestions for how each priority may be addressed in practice. Methods Priority areas were identified through deductive content analysis of 20 semi-structured interviews with practicing neurologists. Results Seven priority areas were identified regarding promotion of exercise among patients in comprehensive MS care. These included 1). How do I fit exercise promotion into a patient's appointment? 2). What resources should I give my patients about exercise? 3). What are the benefits of exercise for people with MS? 4). What training can I do to be better informed about exercise? 5). What are the prescriptions/guidelines for exercise among persons with MS? 6). What kind of services can I rely on to support me in promoting and supporting exercise behavior? 7). How do I negotiate reimbursement and insurance restrictions when I promote exercise? Conclusions This research sets an agenda regarding approaches for exercise promotion among patients with MS through interactions with neurologists in comprehensive care settings.
Morning Bright Light Treatment for Chronic Low Back Pain: Potential Impact on the Volatility of Pain, Mood, Function, and Sleep.

Objectives Most treatment outcome studies for people with chronic low back pain (CLBP) have based analyses on and reported only the mean levels of these factors. However, high levels of pain, mood, function, and sleep volatility may represent unique factors contributing to diminished quality of life. Our goal was to determine whether bright light treatment affected both mean levels of pain, mood, function, and sleep and reduced volatility in these outcomes. Methods US military veterans with CLBP (N = 22) underwent an open trial with a seven-day baseline, followed by 13 days of a one-hour morning bright light treatment self-administered at their home and a 30-day follow-up. Participants completed daily diary measures at 12 Pm and 6 Pm every day during the three study epochs. Results Using location scale modeling, results suggested that, in addition to being associated with changes in mean levels of pain intensity, pain interference, negative affect, and sleep quality, bright light treatment was also related to reductions in the volatility of pain intensity and negative affect, reductions that were largely maintained during follow-up. Conclusions Changes in mean levels and volatility were independent factors, suggesting that bright light treatment was related to participants experiencing fewer "pain flares." These findings underscore the potential importance of volatility as a future treatment target.
Efficacy of a Primary Care-Based Intervention to Promote Parent-Teen Communication and Well-Being: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Objective To evaluate the impact of a primary care-based, parent-directed intervention on changes in parent-teen communication, parental beliefs about adolescents, parent and adolescent well-being, adolescent distress, and adolescent positive affect from baseline to 2-month follow-up. Study design In this randomized controlled trial, 120 adolescents (13-15 years of age) scheduled for well visits and their parents were randomized to the strength intervention or control group. The intervention included a booklet highlighting 3 key messages about adolescence, instructions to have a discussion with their teen about each other's strengths, and clinician endorsement. Outcomes were assessed before the well visit and 2 months later. Results Adolescents were 61% female and 65% black. Parents were primarily female (97%); 72% had a 4-year degree or higher. The intervention had a positive impact on adolescent-reported open communication among adolescents with baseline low open communication scores (B = 3.55; P = .005; 95% CI, 1.07-6.03). Adolescents in the intervention group reported a decrease in distress (−1.54 vs 3.78; P = .05; partial eta squared [η2] = 0.038) and increase in positive affect (1.30 vs −3.64; P = .05; η2 = 0.04) compared with control group adolescents. The intervention did not affect parent-reported communication, parental beliefs, or adolescent well-being. Control parents demonstrated a marginal increase in well-being, whereas intervention parents did not (0.82 vs −0.18; P = .07; η2 = 0.029). Conclusions This study highlights the potential impact of primary care-based, universal, low-intensity interventions targeting parents of adolescents on parent-teen communication and important adolescent health outcomes. Trial registration Clinicaltrials.gov : NCT03496155 .
Water Towers of the West

This chapter will emphasize that hydrology and the cryosphere are important both globally and regionally in the Western Mountains. I describe ocean-atmosphere coupling and orographic precipitation, and introduce the idea of snow-dominated systems, which include some of the West’s mountains. The idea that snow and glaciers are capacitors provides a metaphor for explaining what happens to the mountain cryosphere under a warming climate. Mountains with perennial snow and abundant glaciers respond differently from those with seasonal snow and isolated glaciers. In the context of climate change, I discuss extreme events (also discussed in Chapter 8), and the difference between drought and “climate-change” drought, bringing in a paleoclimatic perspective. The important concept of water-balance deficit is introduced here, and used in later chapters.
Applications of artificial intelligence for disaster management

Natural hazards have the potential to cause catastrophic damage and significant socioeconomic loss. The actual damage and loss observed in the recent decades has shown an increasing trend. As a result, disaster managers need to take a growing responsibility to proactively protect their communities by developing efficient management strategies. A number of research studies apply artificial intelligence (AI) techniques to process disaster-related data for supporting informed disaster management. This study provides an overview of current applications of AI in disaster management during its four phases: mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. It presents example applications of different AI techniques and their benefits for supporting disaster management at different phases, as well as some practical AI-based decision support tools. We find that the majority of AI applications focus on the disaster response phase. This study also identifies challenges to inspire the professional community to advance AI techniques for addressing them in future research.
Abstract 2776: Real-time measurement of temperature and tissue damage during laser photothermal ablation

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the sixth most common cancer and tumor resection is feasible in only 25±30% of these patients. Thermal ablation therapies using lasers, radiofrequency waves and microwaves are considered as an alternative treatment for unresectable tumors. Our goal was to develop optical fiber-based laser ablation while monitoring the changes in temperature and tissue properties in real-time. A portable diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) system consisting of a DRS probe with self-calibration and fiber optic temperature sensor was made. Tissue mimicking phantoms using human hemoglobin powders and polystyrene particles with fixed total number of scatterers were used to calibrate the system. In vivo studies were performed in 8 rats orthotopically implanted with HCC. Temperature sensor was inserted in the center of the tumor via hypodermic needle and DRS fiber was overlaid on the temperature sensor. Ablation was performed by a fiber optic diffuser connected to an 808nm laser using different power settings in pulse mode. The tissue temperature and optical properties were continuously monitored until both plateaued using a custom LabVIEW program. Rats were immediately euthanized, and the ablated liver tissues were collected for histological analysis. The DRS showed average errors of 6.31% and 4.74% in measuring the absorption (μa) and reduced scattering coefficients (μs) of the phantoms respectively. Tumor bearing liver tissues showed a decreasing trend in both μa and μs irrespective of the laser power (1W-2.5W) and the temperatures recorded (50°C to 88°C) in different animals. Histological analysis showed discrete zones of tissue damage from treated regions with hemorrhage in the outer most zone. Changes in optical properties of the ablated tumors with temperatures and histological changes needs further correlation by performing more in vivo studies. Citation Format: Faraneh Fathi, Dilip R. Maddirela, Venkateswara Rao Gogineni, Sarah B. White, Bing Yu. Real-time measurement of temperature and tissue damage during laser photothermal ablation [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research 2020; 2020 Apr 27-28 and Jun 22-24. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(16 Suppl):Abstract nr 2776.
Percutaneous brachial access associated with increased incidence of complications compared with open exposure for peripheral vascular interventions in a contemporary series.

Abstract Objective Although percutaneous brachial access has been used more often for peripheral vascular interventions (PVIs), previous studies have suggested that open brachial artery exposure for access is associated with fewer complications than percutaneous access. The present study sought to determine the incidence of complications for each access method and identify the predictors of access site complications after brachial access. Methods The Vascular Quality Initiative national database was queried for all patients who had undergone PVI with brachial artery access from 2016 to 2019. Procedures with simultaneous thrombolysis or open procedures were excluded. The primary outcome was any perioperative brachial artery access complications. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify any associated predictors. Results A total of 1400 procedures had been performed for 1242 patients; 189 procedures (13.5%) had used an open exposure. The mean patient age was 67.3 ± 9.5 years, and 55.7% of the procedures were on men. No significant demographic differences were found between the open and percutaneous groups. Open exposure procedures were more likely to have used sheaths >5F (79.4% vs 59.0%; P Conclusions Open exposure might be advantageous compared with percutaneous access for preventing complications after brachial access. However, the difference in complications was driven by hematomas that were managed nonoperatively. Operative complications were more common in the percutaneous group, although this did not reach statistical significance. Percutaneous access should be used cautiously in women, patients with a history of congestive heart failure, those without diabetes, and interventions in which larger sheaths are required.
Intensive Care Unit Admission, Mechanical Ventilation, and Mortality Among Patients With Type 1 Diabetes Hospitalized for COVID-19 in the U.S.

OBJECTIVE To assess whether risk of severe outcomes among patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) hospitalized for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) differs from that of patients without diabetes or with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Using the Premier Healthcare Database Special COVID-19 Release records of patients discharged after COVID-19 hospitalization from U.S. hospitals from March to November 2020 (N = 269,674 after exclusion), we estimated risk differences (RD) and risk ratios (RR) of intensive care unit admission or invasive mechanical ventilation (ICU/MV) and of death among patients with T1DM compared with patients without diabetes or with T2DM. Logistic models were adjusted for age, sex, and race or ethnicity. Models adjusted for additional demographic and clinical characteristics were used to examine whether other factors account for the associations between T1DM and severe COVID-19 outcomes. RESULTS Compared with patients without diabetes, T1DM was associated with a 21% higher absolute risk of ICU/MV (RD 0.21, 95% CI 0.19–0.24; RR 1.49, 95% CI 1.43–1.56) and a 5% higher absolute risk of mortality (RD 0.05, 95% CI 0.03–0.07; RR 1.40, 95% CI 1.24–1.57), with adjustment for age, sex, and race or ethnicity. Compared with T2DM, T1DM was associated with a 9% higher absolute risk of ICU/MV (RD 0.09, 95% CI 0.07–0.12; RR 1.17, 95% CI 1.12–1.22), but no difference in mortality (RD 0.00, 95% CI −0.02 to 0.02; RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.89–1.13). After adjustment for diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) occurring before or at COVID-19 diagnosis, patients with T1DM no longer had increased risk of ICU/MV (RD 0.01, 95% CI −0.01 to 0.03) and had lower mortality (RD −0.03, 95% CI −0.05 to −0.01) in comparisons with patients with T2DM. CONCLUSIONS Patients with T1DM hospitalized for COVID-19 are at higher risk for severe outcomes than those without diabetes. Higher risk of ICU/MV in patients with T1DM than in patients with T2DM was largely accounted for by the presence of DKA. These findings might further guide recommendations related to diabetes management and the prevention of COVID-19.
Vitamin C for Sepsis and Septic Shock.

Background Sepsis remains a leading cause of death in the critically ill. The combination of thiamine, vitamin C, and hydrocortisone has recently emerged as a potential adjunctive therapy and supportive care for patients with sepsis and septic shock. Areas of uncertainty Several randomized and observational controlled trials evaluated the role of vitamin C in sepsis and septic shock. However, there are variabilities in the findings of these studies that led to a substantial global debate on incorporating vitamin C therapy in clinical practice. Data sources A PubMed and Embase English language literature search through April 2021 was performed using the following terms: ascorbic acid, vitamin C, corticosteroid, hydrocortisone, thiamine, HAT, sepsis, and shock. Citations, including controlled trials, observational studies, review articles, guidelines, and consensus statements, were reviewed. The risk of bias for each clinical study was systematically evaluated. Relevant clinical data focusing on efficacy, safety, and special considerations regarding the use of vitamin C with and without thiamine and hydrocortisone in sepsis and septic shock were narratively summarized. Results The most commonly used vitamin C dosing in sepsis and septic shock is 1.5 g every 6 hours with and without thiamine and hydrocortisone. Current literature is limited because of heterogeneity in vitamin C regimen used, initiation time, and duration of treatment. This limitation led to variability in outcomes evaluated. Vitamin C decreases proinflammatory mediators and slows the progression of endothelial injury in severe sepsis. There is an inconsistency between randomized controlled trials and observational controlled trials regarding mortality, resolution in organ failure, hospital and intensive care unit length of stay findings with the use of vitamin C in septic shock. Vitamin C seems to be safe in comparison with placebo. Conclusions Future studies with consistent end points, initiation time with an emphasis on early initiation, and standard vitamin C dosing regimen are needed to determine the overall benefit of vitamin C in sepsis.
OTEH-11. Single Cell RNA Sequencing to identify cellular heterogeneity with in Pituitary Adenomas

Pituitary adenomas (PA) are one of the most common primary brain tumors and comprise approximately 15% of brain neoplasms. Most PA are histologically benign, but can cause significant morbidity. Previous studies utilized whole genome and exome sequencing to identify a few somatic variants, but no recurrent mutations were observed. Further studies are warranted to identify driver mutations occurring at low frequencies. We used single-cell RNA sequencing (10X Genomics) to investigate cellular heterogeneity in 12 non-functioning pituitary adenomas. Our analysis identified discrete clusters of cells associated with specific functional pathways. One of these clusters corresponded to cells expressing genes related to metabolic pathways, primarily lipid metabolism. Another cluster consistent amongst the three patients comprised cells involved in antigen presentation and processing. In addition, the copy number variation analysis highlighted distinct chromosomal alterations within our samples. Interestingly, we were able to identify clonal variations within each tumor based on chromosomal aberrations. For example, in our first patient we observed a gain of chromosome 19 and loss of chromosome 2. Our analysis showed three different clonal populations within this tumor. All three populations harbored the loss of chromosome 2, one population exhibited gain of chromosome 19, while a third population exhibited loss of chromosome 19. These early results indicate the loss of chromosome 2 as an early event in tumorigenesis and gain/loss of chromosome 19 as late events. We are currently in a process of identifying somatic variations within these tumors by variant calling. Currently we are expanding our analysis to 20 non-functional PA. Mapping the single-cell gene expression profiles with mutational phylogeny will reveal the differences in clonal evolution within the tumor subtypes. This study will help us define the molecular fingerprint of pituitary adenomas and provide insights which could be utilized in the clinic for better management of these tumors.
Preferred flavors and tobacco use patterns in adult dual users of cigarettes and ENDS.

Abstract Objectives This study examined how adult dual users of cigarettes and electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS) flavor preference varied by demographics, tobacco history, motives, and expectancies for ENDS, and how ENDS flavor preference was associated with changes in cigarette and ENDS use over 12 months. Methods Data come from the baseline and 12-month waves of an observational study of adult dual cigarette and ENDS users (N = 406). Flavor preferences were grouped into 4 categories: tobacco (12.6%), menthol/mint (34.7%), sweet (44.8%), and other (7.9%). Results Users of sweet-flavored ENDS were significantly younger than those who used tobacco- or menthol flavors. Black dual users were significantly more likely than other racial groups to use menthol and less likely to use sweet flavors. Dual users who preferred sweet flavors smoked cigarettes on fewer days than those who preferred tobacco and menthol flavors, were less cigarette dependent, more strongly endorsed boredom reduction expectancies and motives related to taste and sensory experience and were more likely to stop smoking by 12 months. Conclusions Dual users of cigarettes and ENDS who preferred sweet flavored ENDS differed in demographics, tobacco history, motives, expectancies, and smoking changes. Findings have implications for interventions and regulations.