cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Address entry while driving: speech recognition versus a touch-screen keyboard

A driving simulator experiment was conducted to determine the effects of entering addresses into a navigation system during driving. Participants drove on roads of varying visual demand while entering addresses. Three address entry methods were explored: word-based speech recognition, character-based speech recognition, and typing on a touch-screen keyboard. For each method, vehicle control and task measures, glance timing, and subjective ratings were examined. During driving, word-based speech recognition yielded the shortest total task time (15.3 s), followed by character-based speech recognition (41.0 s) and touch-screen keyboard (86.0 s). The standard deviation of lateral position when performing keyboard entry (0.21 m) was 60% higher than that for all other address entry methods (0.13 m). Degradation of vehicle control associated with address entry using a touch screen suggests that the use of speech recognition is favorable. Speech recognition systems with visual feedback, however, even with excellent accuracy, are not without performance consequences. Applications of this research include the design of in-vehicle navigation systems as well as other systems requiring significant driver input, such as E-mail, the Internet, and text messaging.
A comparison of the SNAP II™ and BIS XP™ indices during sevoflurane and nitrous oxide anaesthesia at 1 and 1.5 MAC and at awakening

Background Monitoring level of consciousness during anaesthesia, with the ability to predict the intentional or unintentional return to consciousness, is desirable. The purpose of this study was to compare two processed electroencephalographic depth of anaesthesia monitors (SNAP II™ and BIS XP™) during sevoflurane and sevoflurane/nitrous oxide anaesthesia. Methods In total, 42 subjects received an interscalene block, followed by general anaesthesia with sevoflurane or sevoflurane/nitrous oxide. The indices were recorded at baseline, at 1.5 and 1.0 minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) equivalents, and during emergence. Results The SNAP and BIS indices decreased from baseline at 1.5 and 1.0 MAC equivalents, but there was no difference within groups between subjects who received nitrous oxide and those who did not. The SNAP index returned to baseline by 1 min before awakening and was higher than baseline at eye opening, but the BIS index remained below baseline at awakening. There was a bias of −1 (95% CI: −3 to 1) between the SNAP and BIS at baseline; this increased to 21 (95% CI: 19–23) during maintenance of anaesthesia and was 6 (95% CI: 4–8) at awakening. Conclusions The SNAP index tracks loss of consciousness and emergence from sevoflurane and sevoflurane/nitrous oxide anaesthesia. There is significant bias between the SNAP and BIS indices and therefore, the indices are not interchangeable. The SNAP index returns to baseline before awakening, whereas the BIS index remains below baseline at awakening, suggesting that the SNAP index may be more sensitive to unintentional awareness.
Phasing tools for the klystrons at the SLC

Computer-based tools have been developed to aid in the phasing of the klystron RF sources at the SLC (Stanford Linear Collider). Each klystron, and by necessity each sector of klystrons, must be phased correctly to control emittance growth and to preserve the energy and energy spread of the beam. Phasing is accomplished using the beam as the primary reference. This insures that both the total energy gain and the energy gain profile of the linac correspond to the current operational requirements, and also insures that there are no errors in the quadrupole focusing lattice. Changes in hardware can result in different phase values for maximum energy gain; hunting for the sources of these changes continues. Results and operational experience are presented. >
Periodic orbits and chaos around two black holes

We calculate orbits of photons and particles in the relativistic problem of two extreme Reissner-Nordstrom black holes (fixed). In the case of photons there are three types of non-periodic orbits, namely orbits falling into the black holes M 1 and M 2 (types I and II), and orbits escaping to infinity (III). The various types of orbits are separated by orbits asymptotic to the three main types of (unstable) periodic orbits: ( a ) around M 1 , ( b ) around M 2 and ( c ) around both M 1 and M 2 . Between two non-periodic orbits of two different types there are orbits of the third type. The initial conditions of the three types of orbits form three Cantor sets, and this fact is a manifestation of chaos. The role of higher-order periodic orbits is explained. In the case of particles the situation is similar in the parabolic and hyperbolic cases. However, in the elliptic case the orbits are contained inside a curve of zero velocity, and there are no escaping orbits. Instead we have orbits trapped around stable periodic orbits (IV) and stochastic orbits not falling on the black holes M 1 and M 2 (V). The stable periodic orbits become unstable by period doubling, and infinite period doublings lead to chaos. The newtonian limit is an integrable problem (essentially the same as the classical problem of two fixed centres). The periodic orbits of type ( c ) are topologically similar to the corresponding relativistic orbits, but they differ considerably numerically. We prove that in the newtonian case there are no satellite orbits around M 1 or M 2 (of type ( a ) or ( b )). The post-newtonian case is non-integrable. In this case there are in general orbits of all three types ( a ), ( b ) and ( c ).
Real-time constrained linear discriminant analysis to target detection and classification in hyperspectral imagery

In this paper, we present a constrained linear discriminant analysis (CLDA) approach to hyperspectral image detection and classification as well as its real-time implementation. The basic idea of CLDA is to design an optimal transformation matrix which can maximize the ratio of inter-class distance to intra-class distance while imposing the constraint that different class centers after transformation are along different directions such that different classes can be better separated. The solution turns out to be a constrained version of orthogonal subspace projection (OSP) implemented with a data whitening process. The CLDA approach can be applied to solve both detection and classification problems. In particular, by introducing color for display the classification is achieved with a single classified image where a pre-assigned color is used to display a specified class. The real-time implementation is also developed to meet the requirement of on-line image analysis when the immediate data assessment is critical. The experiments using HYDICE data demonstrate the strength of CLDA approach in discriminating the targets with subtle spectral difference.
Dark Regions of No-Reflow on Late Gadolinium Enhancement Magnetic Resonance Imaging Result in Scar Formation After Atrial Fibrillation Ablation

Objectives The aim of this study was to assess acute ablation injuries seen on late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) immediately post-ablation (IPA) and the association with permanent scar 3 months post-ablation (3moPA). Background Success rates for atrial fibrillation catheter ablation vary significantly, in part because of limited information about the location, extent, and permanence of ablation injury at the time of procedure. Although the amount of scar on LGE MRI months after ablation correlates with procedure outcomes, early imaging predictors of scar remain elusive. Methods Thirty-seven patients presenting for atrial fibrillation ablation underwent high-resolution MRI with a 3-dimensional LGE sequence before ablation, IPA, and 3moPA using a 3-T scanner. The acute left atrial wall injuries on IPA scans were categorized as hyperenhancing (HE) or nonenhancing (NE) and compared with scar 3moPA. Results Heterogeneous injuries with HE and NE regions were identified in all patients. Dark NE regions in the left atrial wall on LGE MRI demonstrate findings similar to the “no-reflow” phenomenon. Although the left atrial wall showed similar amounts of HE, NE, and normal tissue IPA (37.7 ± 13%, 34.3 ± 14%, and 28.0 ± 11%, respectively; p = NS), registration of IPA injuries with 3moPA scarring demonstrated that 59.0 ± 19% of scar resulted from NE tissue, 30.6 ± 15% from HE tissue, and 10.4 ± 5% from tissue identified as normal. Paired t -test comparisons were all statistically significant among NE, HE, and normal tissue types (p Conclusions Radiofrequency ablation results in heterogeneous injury on LGE MRI with both HE and NE wall lesions. The NE lesions demonstrate no-reflow characteristics and reveal a better predictor of final scar at 3 months. Scar correlates with procedure outcomes, further highlighting the importance of early scar prediction.
Pulse timing and optical interface between a neodymium: yttrium aluminum garnet laser and a Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometer.

Laser desprption/ionization combined with pulsed (time-of-flight or Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance) mass spectrometric detection is a powerful technique for analysis of involatile compounds and mixtures. Such experiments were originally conducted with pulsed CO2 lasers. Although a pulsed CO2 laser can be operated in single-shot mode, Nd: YAG lasers perform best with multiple flashes for warm-up before the final Q-switch output light pulse, thus creating the need to synchronize the desired final laser-output pulse with the event sequence for mass spectrometric analysis. In this paper, we describe a new and simple interface (both optical and electronic components) between a Continuum (formerly Quantel) Model YG 660A Nd: YAG laser and an Extrel FTMS-2000 mass spectrometer. The optics are modified from a prior pulsed CO2 laser interface from Extrel. Synchronization betweem th Nd: YAG laser and the mass spectrometer event sequence is achieved by means of a simple timing circuit that uses an inexpensive pulsing device and is triggered by pulses generated directly from the Extrel 1280 data system and cell controller, in contrast to the only prior published method that required an auxiliary microcomputer. The present interface method is highly flexible, and makes possible complex sequence events involving laser pulses for e.g.: desorption/ionization of solids; photoionization of gaseous neutrals; and photodissociation and photodetachment of gaseous ions.
Opportunities for optics in integrated circuits applications

Optics potentially addresses two key problems in electronic chips and systems: interconnects and timing. Short optical pulses (e.g., picoseconds or shorter) offer particularly precise timing. Results are shown for optical and electrical four-phase clocking, with <1 ps rms jitter for the optical case.
Dietary Selenium Requirements Based on Glutathione Peroxidase-1 Activity and mRNA Levels and Other Se-Dependent Parameters Are Not Increased by Pregnancy and Lactation in Rats

The hierarchy of selenium (Se) requirements for growing rats ranges from 10 wk, bred, and killed on d 1, 12, and 18 of pregnancy and d 7 and 18 of lactation; Se response curves were determined for 10 parameters including liver glutathione peroxidase (GPX). Growth, and mRNA levels for selenoprotein P, 5'-deiodinase, and GPX4 were not decreased by Se deficiency. GPX4 activity required 0.05 microg Se/g diet for maximum activity, similar to growing rats. Dietary Se requirements for plasma GPX3 activity decreased 33% in pregnancy, but returned during lactation to the requirement of growing rats. The Se requirement for GPX1 activity decreased 25% in pregnancy but not in lactation. GPX1 mRNA required 0.05 microg Se/g diet for maximum levels in both pregnancy and lactation, similar to growing rats. Clearly, Se requirements do not increase during pregnancy and lactation relative to Se requirements in growing rats. Unexpectedly, Se-adequate levels of GPX1 mRNA and activity declined to <40 and 50%, respectively, of nonpregnant Se-adequate levels during pregnancy and lactation, illustrating the need to fully understand biomarkers at all stages of the life cycle.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Intra-Abdominal Abscesses

Despite recent advances in the diagnosis and management of intra-abdominal abscesses, these infections still cause substantial morbidity and mortality. Low pH, large bacterial inocula, poor perfusion, the presence of hemoglobin, and large amounts of fibrin (which impedes antibiotic penetration) make the abscess a cloistered environment that is penetrated poorly by many antimicrobial therapies. Therefore, management of these infections requires prompt recognition, early localization, and effective drainage, as well as appropriate antimicrobial use. Although various imaging techniques, such as ultrasonography, gallium scans, and indium-labeled white-blood-cell scans, can be used for the diagnosis and localization of intra-abdominal abscesses, computer-assisted tomography is the most useful study. Once the diagnosis is made and the abscess is localized, treatment should begin promptly. Percutaneous or open surgical drainage should be used. Broad-spectrum antibiotics should be given until culture and sensitivity data are obtained. Once these data are obtained, a therapy with appropriate coverage that is likely to work in the abscess environment should be chosen. Percutaneous drainage is inappropriate for abscesses in the posterior subphrenic space or in the porta hepatis, for those among loops of small bowel, for suspected echinococcal cysts, and for abscesses containing necrotic or neoplastic tissues. Finally, surgeons need to be cognizant of risk factors, such as advanced age, obesity, complex abscesses, and high Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II or APACHE III scores, which correlate with poor outcomes for these patients.
Optical Metrology - Some Personal Reflections

Three of several major themes of modern optical metrology are reviewed briefly: effective use of the system operatinq curve, clever use of references or standards, and spectral and temporal measurement of spatial effects. Despite the exciting progress observed a major non-scientific problem is noted: the widespread failure of most academic institutions to treat and teach optical metrology as a coherent discipline. Some reasons for that failure are suggested.
New York State Public Health System Response to Hurricane Sandy: An Analysis of Survey Feedback.

OBJECTIVE: The objective was to provide a broad spectrum of New York State and local public health staff the opportunity to contribute anonymous feedback on their own and their agencies' preparedness and response to Hurricane Sandy, perceived challenges, and recommendations for preparedness improvement. METHODS: In 2015, 2 years after Hurricane Sandy, public health staff who worked on Hurricane Sandy response were identified and were provided a link to the anonymous survey. Quantitative analyses were used for survey ratings and qualitative content analyses were used for open-ended questions. RESULTS: Surveys were completed by 129 local health department (LHD) staff in 3 counties heavily impacted by Sandy (Nassau, Suffolk, and Westchester) and 69 staff in the New York State Department of Health who supported the LHDs. Staff agreed that their Hurricane Sandy responsibilities were clearly defined and that they had access to adequate information to perform their jobs. Challenges were reported in the operational, communication, service interruptions, and staff categories, with LHD staff also reporting challenges with shelters. CONCLUSIONS: New York local and state public health staff indicated that they were prepared for Hurricane Sandy. However, their feedback identified specific challenges and recommendations that can be addressed to implement improved preparedness and response strategies. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2016;page 1 of 9). Language: en
Dual-targeting of tissue factor and CD105 for PET Imaging of Pancreatic Cancer

51 Objectives Pancreatic adenocarcinoma is a highly aggressive malignant disease, currently treated with limited success and dismal outcomes. Early detection and treatment offer the potential to reduce cancer morbidity and mortality. Developing noninvasive imaging probes with high specificity for targeting malignant lesions is essential to improve diagnostic accuracy and early therapeutic intervention for pancreatic cancer Methods Herein, we created a bispecific heterodimer by conjugated an anti-tissue factor (TF) Fab with an anti-CD105 Fab via the biorthogonal “click” reaction between tetrazine (Tz) and trans-cyclooctene (TCO). The heterodimers were separated by gel filtration on a HiPrep 16/60 Sephacryl S-100 HR and purity was evaluated by 10% SDS-PAGE gel. Human pancreatic cancer cells (BXPC-3), which express high levels of both TF and CD105, was used to evaluate the binding affinity and bispecificity of the heterodimer. Flow cytometry and competitive binding assays were performed to determine and compare the binding affinities of heterodimer. After labeled with 64Cu, PET imaging and biodistribution studies were performed in nude mice bearing BXPC-3 xenografted tumors. Immunofluorescence staining of resected BXPC-3 tumor sections was carried out to correlate PET-tracer uptake with in situ TF/CD105 expression. Results Flow cytometry and competitive binding assay demonstrated enhanced binding affinity and specificity of the heterodimer with dual targeting of TF and CD105. Positron emission tomography of mice bearing BXPC-3 (TF/CD105+/+) tumors with 64Cu-labelled heterodimer uncovered significantly enhanced tumor uptake (28.8 ± 3.2 %ID/g; n = 4) and tumor-to-background ratio (tumor/muscle ratio of 75.2 ± 9.4 at 30 h p.i.; n = 4) compared to each of their monospecific Fab tracers. In agreement with its TF/CD105 bivalent property, 64Cu-NOTA-heterodimer staining showed a stronger fluorescent signal that was distributed in both BXPC-3 cells and tumor-associated vasculature in the tissue. This demonstrated dual TF and CD105 targeting provides a synergistic improvement on both affinity and specificity of 64Cu-NOTA-heterodimer. Furthermore, 64Cu-NOTA-heterodimer enabled sensitive detection of orthotopic pancreatic tumor lesions with the uptake of 17.1 ± 4.9 %ID/g at 30 h p.i and tumor/muscle ratio of 72.3 ± 46.7. Overall, small animal PET/CT using 64Cu-NOTA-heterodimer enabled highly specific and sensitive detection of aggressive BXPC-3 pancreatic tumors. Conclusions The study provided the initial evidence to confirm the benefit of simultaneous targeting of TF and CD105 for potential imaging and therapy of pancreatic cancer, which implicates combined TF and antiangiogenic inhibition therapies may effectively tackle current therapeutic limitations
Integrating cognitive and sociocultural aspects of reading in Turkish.

Reading comprehension is affected by both decoding-related and language-related factors. In Turkish, with decoding developing quickly, the impact of language-related factors appear earlier and affect reading comprehension strongly. These linguistic proficiencies are affected by socioeconomic status (SES). Reanalysis of data from 120 children in Grades 2,3 and 4, yielded a significant correlation between SES level and the reading comprehension level of a student. SES was a significant factor on all measures (e,g, decoding, comprehension, vocabulary). In regression analyses, listening comprehension was a strong predictor of reading comprehension. There was a marginal predictive effect of SES on listening comprehension (along with memory and speed of conceptual access). These results illustrate the integrated impact of cognitive and sociocultural variables on comprehension.
The immature platelet fraction: creating neonatal reference intervals and using these to categorize neonatal thrombocytopenias

The immature platelet fraction (IPF) is a laboratory measurement analogous to the reticulocyte count, but reflecting the thrombopoietic state. Similar to a reticulocyte count, it can be expressed as a percent (IPF%=percent of platelets that are immature) or as an absolute number per μl blood; the immature platelet count (IPC=IPF% × platelets per μl of blood). Using a retrospective analysis of de-identified data from non-thrombocytopenic neonates, we created reference intervals for IPF% and IPC. We then tested the value of these measurements for categorizing thrombocytopenic neonates. New charts display reference intervals for IPF% and IPC on the day of birth according to gestational age, and during the first 90 days after birth. Neonates with hyporegenerative varieties of thrombocytopenias (syndromes, small for gestational age, birth asphyxia) had lower IPF% and IPC than did neonates with consumptive thrombocytopenias (immune-mediated, infection, disseminated intravascular coagulation, necrotizing enterocolitis; both P<0.0001). The new reference interval charts can be used to recognize abnormal IPFs. The IPF parameters can help clarify the kinetic mechanism responsible for thrombocytopenias in neonates.
Some Trends in the Mechanical Characterization of Polymers

Because of the complex molecular mechanisms involved in the deformation of polymers, the variables of time and temperature assume much greater importance than they do in metals. An adequate description of the mechanical behavior of a polymer for engineering purposes must therefore include the effects of both these variables. Dynamic experiments, which have been used with such success by the physicist in the analysis of the structure of polymers, now hold out the promise of becoming a useful tool for the engineer. The results of such experiments may be expressed in terms of curves of storage and loss moduli as functions of time (frequency) and temperature, and a number of interesting ways have been proposed in which the engineer can use these curves. Studies are underway, both in Europe and America, aimed at reducing experimental difficulties and setting up standard test procedures. At the same time progress is also being made in the improvement of the more conventional types of tests.
Mild, Selective Sulfoxidation with Molybdenum(VI) cis-Dioxo Catalysts.

Three molybdenum(VI) cis-dioxo catalysts (8–10) were synthesized with the goal of developing stable and selective oxidation catalysts for sulfoxidation. Their reactivities were investigated with a variety of substrates. We have demonstrated the usefulness of these catalysts for the chemoselective sulfoxidation of sulfides in the presence of reactive moieties, which has important applications for total synthesis processes. Notably, these catalysts are able to oxidize compounds analogous to sulfur mustard and can be used as an alternative to sodium periodate or meta-chloroperoxybenzoic acid (m-CPBA) for the oxidation of various organic sulfides without sacrificing total conversion. As the catalysts are tolerant of water and hydrogen peroxide, they allow for the design of completely green oxidation reactions, particularly for sulfur-containing amino acids.
Chronic β-Cell Depolarization Impairs β-Cell Identity by Disrupting a Network of Ca 2+ -Regulated Genes.

We used mice lacking Abcc8 , a key component of the β-cell K ATP -channel, to analyze the effects of a sustained elevation in the intracellular Ca 2+ concentration ([Ca 2+ ] i ) on β-cell identity and gene expression. Lineage tracing analysis revealed the conversion of β-cells lacking Abcc8 into pancreatic polypeptide cells but not to α- or δ-cells. RNA-sequencing analysis of FACS-purified Abcc8 −/− β-cells confirmed an increase in Ppy gene expression and revealed altered expression of more than 4,200 genes, many of which are involved in Ca 2+ signaling, the maintenance of β-cell identity, and cell adhesion. The expression of S100a6 and S100a4 , two highly upregulated genes, is closely correlated with membrane depolarization, suggesting their use as markers for an increase in [Ca 2+ ] i . Moreover, a bioinformatics analysis predicts that many of the dysregulated genes are regulated by common transcription factors, one of which, Ascl1 , was confirmed to be directly controlled by Ca 2+ influx in β-cells. Interestingly, among the upregulated genes is Aldh1a3 , a putative marker of β-cell dedifferentiation, and other genes associated with β-cell failure. Taken together, our results suggest that chronically elevated β-cell [Ca 2+ ] i in Abcc8 −/− islets contributes to the alteration of β-cell identity, islet cell numbers and morphology, and gene expression by disrupting a network of Ca 2+ -regulated genes.
Computational modeling and validation of human nasal airflow under various breathing conditions

The human nose serves vital physiological functions, including warming, filtration, humidification, and olfaction. These functions are based on transport phenomena that depend on nasal airflow patterns and turbulence. Accurate prediction of these airflow properties requires careful selection of computational fluid dynamics models and rigorous validation. The validation studies in the past have been limited by poor representations of the complex nasal geometry, lack of detailed airflow comparisons, and restricted ranges of flow rate. The objective of this study is to validate various numerical methods based on an anatomically accurate nasal model against published experimentally measured data under breathing flow rates from 180 to 1100ml/s. The numerical results of velocity profiles and turbulence intensities were obtained using the laminar model, four widely used Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) turbulence models (i.e., k-e, standard k-ω, Shear Stress Transport k-ω, and Reynolds Stress Model), large eddy simulation (LES) model, and direct numerical simulation (DNS). It was found that, despite certain irregularity in the flow field, the laminar model achieved good agreement with experimental results under restful breathing condition (180ml/s) and performed better than the RANS models. As the breathing flow rate increased, the RANS models achieved more accurate predictions but still performed worse than LES and DNS. As expected, LES and DNS can provide accurate predictions of the nasal airflow under all flow conditions but have an approximately 100-fold higher computational cost. Among all the RANS models tested, the standard k-ω model agrees most closely with the experimental values in terms of velocity profile and turbulence intensity.
Characterization of an active metasurface using terahertz ellipsometry

Switchable metasurfaces fabricated on a doped epi-layer have become an important platform for developing techniques to control terahertz (THz) radiation, as a DC bias can modulate the transmission characteristics of the metasurface. To model and understand this performance in new device configurations accurately, a quantitative understanding of the bias-dependent surface characteristics is required. We perform THz variable angle spectroscopic ellipsometry on a switchable metasurface as a function of DC bias. By comparing these data with numerical simulations, we extract a model for the response of the metasurface at any bias value. Using this model, we predict a giant bias-induced phase modulation in a guided wave configuration. These predictions are in qualitative agreement with our measurements, offering a route to efficient modulation of THz signals.
Household Immigration Status Had Differential Impact On Medicaid Enrollment In Expansion And Nonexpansion States.

Recent research has shown that concern about the apprehension and deportation of undocumented immigrants can affect how members of their households who are eligible for public benefits choose to participate in public programs. The extent to which this “chilling effect” broadly affects adults’ Medicaid enrollment nationally remains unclear, in part because of the difficulty of isolating undocumented immigrants in survey data. In this study we identified households that likely included undocumented immigrants and then examined whether gains in health care coverage due to the expansion of Medicaid eligibility under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) were dampened for eligible people living in households with mixed immigration status. We found no significant differences in coverage gains for people in mixed- relative to non-mixed-status households in expansion states. Coverage gains were significantly lower, however, for people in mixed-status households relative to those in non-mixed-status households in nonexpan...
Fetal malformations following progesterone therapy during pregnancy: a preliminary report

This report presents the outcome of pregnancies of 93 women who conceived while taking progesterone (P) suppositories ( n = 42) or P in oil intramuscularly ( n = 51). The dosage and duration of treatment varied according to the indication. The total dose (in milligrams) increased with the duration of treatment and ranged from 75 to 13,500 mg. Two of 75 term pregnancies (2.6%) were noted to have congenital anomalies. Both women had been treated with P in oil. No patient treated with P suppositories gave birth to a malformed infant. An increased spontaneous abortion rate (28.6%) was noted among women treated with P suppositories. The authors recommend that a national registry be created to document fetal outcome after P therapy.
Transfer of Polarized Radiation in a Magnetoactive Plasma

This chapter discusses the propagation of electromagnetic waves in an electrically neutral medium of charged and neutral particles interacting with each other and interacting with an external magnetic field. The chapter describes a propagation effect capable of converting linear polarization of a wave in thermal plasma into circular polarization. The effect is referred to as Faraday pulsation because of its analogy to Faraday rotation and because of the changes in ellipticity of the polarization ellipse as the wave propagates. Synchrotron radiation emitted by high-energy electrons in plasma with a uniform magnetic field will not undergo Faraday pulsation from that plasma, as its plane of polarization is normal to the magnetic field and as the radiation is emitted mainly at higher harmonics of electron gyrofrequency. If there is enough of thermal and low-energy relativistic electrons in a source, the elliptically polarized modes of propagation of electromagnetic Faraday pulsation takes place only to the extent permitted by the deviation from circularity of the propagation modes, which is a function of relativistic and cold electron densities.
Abstract 1629: Adrenal-Targeted GRK2 Gene Deletion Ameliorates Sympathetic Overstimulation and Improves Function of the Failing Heart

Chronic heart failure (HF) is characterized by sympathetic overactivity reflected by enhanced circulating catecholamines (CAs), which contribute to increased morbidity and mortality. We recently reported that adrenal G-protein coupled receptor kinase-2 (GRK2) is up-regulated in chronic HF, leading to enhanced CA release via desensitization/downregulation of the chromaffin cell a 2 -adrenergic receptors (a 2 ARs) that normally inhibit CA secretion. We also showed that adrenal GRK2 inhibition via adenoviral-mediated in vivo gene therapy acutely decreases circulating CAs and improves cardiac inotropic reserve and function ( Lymperopoulos, A. et al., Nat. Med.13 : 315–323, 2007). In the present study, we hypothesized that adrenal-targeted GRK2 gene deletion might be beneficial in chronic HF by means of normalizing sympathetic activity. Methods: To specifically delete GRK2 only in the chromaffin cells of the adrenal gland, we utilized the Cre/loxP technology, crossing PNMT-Cre mice, which express Cre recombinase under the gene promoter of phenylethanolamine N-methyl transferase (PNMT), a chromaffin cell-specific enzyme. We crossed these mice with floxGRK2 +/+ mice, which have the GRK2 gene flanked by loxP sites, thus targeted for deletion by Cre. At 2 months of age, offspring underwent surgical myocardial infarction (MI) to induce HF, and 4 weeks later, cardiac function, adrenal physiology and CA levels were assessed. Results: Genetic screening and western blotting in adrenal extracts confirmed a significant (54 ± 10 % vs. control, non-crossed floxGRK2 +/+ ) reduction of adrenal GRK2 protein levels in PNMTCre/floxGRK2 mice. Adrenal weight-to-body weight ratio was also significantly lower at 4 weeks post-MI, indicating prevention of post-MI adrenal hypertrophy. Additionally, plasma circulating CAs were reduced, and, importantly, cardiac ejection fraction of PNMTCre/floxGRK2 mice was markedly higher than that of floxGRK2 +/+ mice at 4-weeks post-MI (39.6 ± 1.0%, n = 9, vs. 30.9 ± 1.6%, n = 11, respectively, p = 0.0005). Moreover, contractile function and βAR signaling significantly improved. Conclusions: Adrenal-targeted GRK2 gene knockout decreases circulating CAs, leading to improved cardiac inotropic/adrenergic reserve in post-MI HF. This research has received full or partial funding support from the American Heart Association, AHA Great Rivers Affiliate (Delaware, Kentucky, Ohio, Pennsylvania & West Virginia).
A Functional Theory of Dreaming

The emergence of feeling moments into consciousness and the use of expression dynamics to aid this emergence is the working level of functional therapy. At times it is both possible and desirable to think about each therapy session as “nothing but” a series of feeling moments. The therapist working at this level does nothing but follow the stream of feeling consciousness wherever it goes and uses expression dynamics to further the flow whenever it becomes narrowed, diverted, or affectively inconsistent. But this level of work is too molecular by itself to orient the therapist fully within a session or across sessions. It is necessary to move up a level to understand how feeling moments and expression dynamics are organized into molar personality characteristics that can be targeted for therapeutic intervention.
Lattice Models of High Velocity Dislocation Motion

The high velocity motion of a screw dislocation is critically affected by the discreteness of the medium. The motion is accompanied by the emission of sound waves following the defect as a wake. The dynamic Peierls stress s, required to maintain the dislocation in uniform motion is a structured function of velocity for v≤0.5c but increases monotonically from v≈0.5c up to a critical v≈0.9c. The external stress needed depends very strongly on the interatomic force law and can correspond to a strain as low as 10−5 for a straight screw dislocation with a piecewise linear force law. The interaction of the dislocation with phonons is strongly non-linear for phonons with phase velocity equal to the dislocation velocity. They can form a phonon-dislocation complex moving with no external stress.
Analysis of Fraunhofer diffraction patterns' entropy based on apertures shaped as national borders

Abstract How aesthetically pleasing is your country’s diffraction pattern? This work summarizes the calculated and experimental Fraunhofer diffraction patterns obtained from using apertures lithographically formed into shapes of national borders. Calculations are made based on the fast Fourier transform of the aperture images. The entropy of a diffraction pattern image, based on its two-dimensional gradient, for each of 113 nations has also been computed. Results suggest that most nations’ diffraction patterns fall under one of two prominent trends forming as a function of geographical area, with one trend being less entropic than the other.
Irrigation’s effect and applied selection on the fiber quality of Ethyl MethaneSulfonate (EMS) treated upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)

Producing rainfed cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) with high fiber quality has been challenging in the Texas High Plains because of extended periods of insufficient rainfall during sensitive boll developmental stages. Genetic variation created by Ethyl MethaneSulfonate (EMS) mutagen has successfully improved fiber quality of cotton. However, little is known about the effect of water deficit environments on fiber quality. Three EMS treated populations were advanced from the first to the fourth generation (M1 to M4) as bulk harvested populations. In 2014, single-plant divergent selection was applied based on perceived morphological and agronomic differences seen during and at the end of the season. Analyses from these selections in 2014–2016 showed significant (P < 0.05) improvement between and within populations for fiber traits (micronaire, length, strength, uniformity, and elongation) when compared with the original non-treated EMS source; some selections were found to have excellent fiber quality under diverse irrigation-regimes. Some of these selections are being considered for germplasm release and could be useful for improving the fiber quality of cotton under water limited conditions, thereby helping to ensure the long-term survival of the cotton industry on the Texas High Plains.
Associations of Erythrocyte Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids with Inflammation and Quality of Life in Post-Menopausal Women with Obesity Completing a Pilot Dietary Intervention

Study objectives were to determine if erythrocyte omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) increased in women participating in a dietary intervention that reduced inflammation and body weight and examine PUFA associations with markers of inflammation and quality of life (QOL). An experimental pre-post test, single group design was used. Fifteen post-menopausal women with obesity were enrolled in a 12-week pilot intervention focusing on lowering added sugars and increasing fiber and fish rich in n-3 PUFAs. Measurements included fasting blood samples, anthropometric, lifestyle and dietary data collected at baseline, end of intervention (Week 12) and follow-up (Week 24). Primary outcomes were change in erythrocyte PUFAs and associations between erythrocyte PUFAs, QOL (Short Form 12), and inflammatory markers (interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α-receptor 2, and high sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP)). Fourteen women completed all intervention visits. Mean erythrocyte docosahexaenoic acid and arachidonic acid (AA) increased at Week 12 and Week 24 (p < 0.001 for both), while eicosapentaenoic acid increased at Week 24 (p < 0.01). After adjustment for percent weight change, week 12 QOL related to physical function was significantly associated with erythrocyte linoleic acid (p < 0.05) and trended toward significant association with EPA (p = 0.051); week 24 CRP was directly associated with erythrocyte AA (p < 0.05). Erythrocyte n-3 PUFAs were not associated with inflammation.
How to Create and Use State-Level Policy Data Sets in Education Research:

As state governments seek to improve the performance of institutions of K–12 and higher education, they often adopt educational policies that have similar names but different characteristics across...
Meditations from the Anthropocene

In Surfacing, Kathleen Jamie—one of Scotland9s leading poets and an exquisite prose writer—tracks travel observations and reflects on the passage of time. Terry Tempest Williams9s Erosion is inspired by Utah9s burnished buttes and canyons, where erosion creates vistas of unexpected beauty. Although they work with very different sensibilities—Jamie as a writer of poetic restraint and Williams one of rhetorical insistence— these two authors are among the most accomplished environmental writers working today. We need both voices as we face the challenges before us.
Generalizability of Left Ventricular Assist Device Clinical Trial Findings: An Analysis of the INTERMACS Database

Purpose Clinical trials assessing durable LVAD therapy have demonstrated survival benefits that have increased adoption. However, highly selected trial populations may not reflect the real-world setting. We assessed the generalizability of LVAD clinical trial findings by comparing mortality between LVAD recipients meeting current trial eligibility criteria to those ineligible. Methods Patients undergoing LVAD implantation between 2012-2017 were identified in INTERMACS (n=15,077). MOMENTUM 3 (Multicenter Study of MagLev Technology in Patients Undergoing Mechanical Circulatory Therapy with HeartMate 3) trial inclusion/exclusion criteria were mapped to INTERMACS variables to categorize patients as trial eligible or ineligible and by number of exclusion criteria present: 0, 1, 2, and ≥3. Kaplan-Meier analyses were used to compare cumulative mortality by trial eligibility and number of exclusion criteria. Multivariable Cox models were used to report risk-adjusted mortality with hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results A total of 6728 (44.6%) LVAD recipients were trial ineligible, of which 4331 (28.7%) had 1 exclusion, 1517 (10.1%) had 2, and 880 (5.8%) had ≥3. Mortality for trial ineligible recipients (1-year: 26±1%; 3-year: 44±2%) was higher than for trial eligible recipients (1-year: 16±1%; 3-year: 37±1%; p Conclusion Nearly half of real-world LVAD recipients do not meet current clinical trial criteria, and these trial ineligible recipients demonstrated higher mortality. Providers should incorporate trial criteria when assessing LVAD candidate outcomes.
Mobile-assisted cognitive-behavioral social skills training in older adults with schizophrenia

Abstract Psychosocial rehabilitation interventions are needed to improve functioning in people with schizophrenia, particularly for older adults. In multiple clinical trials, cognitive-behavioral social skills training (CBSST) has been found to improve community functioning in younger and older participants with schizophrenia. To reduce the burden and possibly strengthen CBSST, we developed a mobile-assisted CBSST intervention (MA-CBSST), in which therapist contact was reduced 50% and group sessions were supplemented by a mobile device that prompted at-home practice of CBSST skills. This study was a preliminary randomized clinical trial comparing: (1) the full CBSST program; (2) MA-CBSST and (3) a device contact (DC) control (only symptom and activity monitoring) in 57 older adults with schizophrenia (age > 45). Relative to DC-only, CBSST skill knowledge and self-reported functioning improved significantly more in the full CBSST program and full CBSST and MA-CBSST groups did not differ significantly, but improvements on these outcomes were only marginally significant for MA-CBSST relative to DC-only with smaller effect sizes. The results replicated multiple prior clinical trials showing improvement in functioning in schizophrenia in CBSST, but the effect of MA-CBSST on functioning was weaker than the full CBSST program.
Comparing Cortical Bone Trajectories for Pedicle Screw Insertion using Robotic Guidance and Three-Dimensional Computed Tomography Navigation.

Background Cortical bone trajectories (CBTs) for pedicle screw insertion can be used to stabilize the spine. Surgeons often rely on fluoroscopy or computed tomography (CT)-navigation technologies to guide screw placement. Robotic technology has potential to increase accuracy. We report our initial experience with robotic guidance for pedicle screw insertion utilizing CBTs in patients with degenerative disc disease. Methods A retrospective chart review was conducted using data for consecutive patients who underwent spinal stabilization using a posterior approach for CBTs. The newest robotic platform (Mazor X) was used in these cases. Accuracy was determined by applying the Ravi Scale: grade I (no breach or deviation), II (breach 4 mm). The results were compared with those for a historical cohort of patients who underwent CT navigation–guided pedicle screw insertion using CBTs. Results Twenty-two patients underwent robot-assisted pedicle screw placement using CBTs. A total of 92 screws were inserted across 24 spinal levels with grade I accuracy and without complications in the robotic group. Eighteen patients underwent CT-navigation for CBT pedicle screw insertion. A total of 74 screws were inserted across 19 levels, 69 of which were grade I accuracy and 5 were grade II accuracy. When comparing operative time (P = 0.97), fluoroscopy time (P = 0.8), and radiation dose (P = 0.4), no significant differences were observed between cohorts. Conclusions Robotic technology and CT-navigation technology for CBT pedicle screw insertion were safe and accurate.
Estimating harvest rate and the effects of hunting pressure on northern bobwhite survival

Harvest limits are an important component of wildlife management but evaluating whether realized harvest rates are close to established regulations is often not done in practice. Also, managers typically only partially control harvest rates via changes to metrics such as season length and hunting party size, but the relationships between these proxies and harvest rate are often unknown. We studied a population of northern bobwhite Colinus virginianus over a three-year period to estimate harvest, survival and relationships between harvest rate and proxies of hunting pressure. We captured and marked bobwhite with only bands (n = 479) or bands and radio-transmitters (n = 592). We monitored radio-marked individuals weekly until radio failure, lost signal or death. A comparison of annual survival rates indicated birds marked with only bands survived at similar rates (14.5%, 95% CI: 7.6, 21.4%) compared to those marked with both bands and radio-transmitters (10.6%, 95% CI: 7.9, 13.3%). A cumulative incidence function for cause-specific mortality produced an annual harvest rate estimate of 12.0% (95% CI: 8.6, 15.4%). However, this estimate was likely negatively biased in the presence of undocumented crippling loss. We also derived a 14.4% annual harvest rate using average observed levels of hunting pressure and a joint live–dead model that was not dependent on classification of mortality sources. We predicted annual harvest rates over a range of population sizes and hunting pressures to inform managers of possible thresholds to target. Hunting pressure was an important predictor of harvest rate. For instance, we estimated that adding approximately two more hunters per week would push seasonal harvest rates past the targeted harvest threshold, indicating managers should carefully regulate hunting pressure to avoid exceeding set harvest limits. Estimating relationships between weekly survival and hunting pressure can provide information to evaluate different management scenarios and help develop hunting regulations.
Shared Book Reading and Bilingual Decoding in Latinx Immigrant Homes.

Through in-home ethnographic observations of three multilingual immigrant families’ shared book reading, we identified recurring literacy practices in the home in which mothers, older siblings, and...
Executive Compensation and Corporate Acquisition Decisions

By examining how executive compensation structure determines corporate acquisition decisions, we document a strong positive relation between acquiring managers' equity-based compensation (EBC) and stock price performance around and following acquisition announcements. This relation is highly robust when we control for acquisition mode (mergers), means of payment, managerial ownership, and previous option grants. Compared to low EBC managers, high EBC managers pay lower acquisition premiums, acquire targets with higher growth opportunities, and make acquisitions engendering larger increases in firm risk. EBC significantly explains post-acquisition stock price performance even after controlling for acquisition mode, means of payment, and "glamour" versus "value" acquirers.
History of Social Work with Groups in Practice and Education

This chapter outlines a brief history of social work with groups including its place within the larger social work field and the landscapes of group work practice and education. Basic theory and concepts in social work with groups are presented including mutual aid, the centrality of relationships, and an introduction to the non-deliberative social work tradition. The presence of group work in social work practice has significantly increased due as research studies have piled up to support its efficacy. Nevertheless, at the same time, the presence of group work in social work education has steadily declined in the past several decades.