SHAREOK Repository
Not a member yet
49261 research outputs found
Sort by
Industrial Society and Its Future for percussion quartet and electronics
No full textIndustrial Society and Its Future is an electroacoustic composition for percussion quartet and electronics. The piece centers around the worldview and actions of Theodore Kaczynski, an American man who mailed dozens of hand-made bombs, killing three and injuring 23 others. These bombings were an act of revenge against “the industrial-technological system”, as well as a means to gain leverage towards the publication of his manifesto, from which my composition gets its name. The work has an acoustic component and several electronic components. The acoustic component is a percussion quartet to be performed live. The primarily electronic component is percussion samples I recorded myself. Other electronic components used are voice-over of quotes from the titular text rendered using AI, recordings of my own voice, and randomly generated MIDI sounds. These sounds are processed to varying degrees, most to the point of unrecognizability. After mixing and balancing my sounds, I rendered my results as waveform files to be triggered at specific times in performance using a Max/MSP patch. These components combine to create a dystopian, oppressive soundscape, exploring the ways Kaczynski’s ideas, worldview, and actions can be expressed through music. The work is not a critique, but rather an exploration of Kaczynski’s ideas in the wake of modern developments of technology, such as the reorganization of society prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic as well as the advancement of artificial intelligence. Said technological developments have contributed to a resurgence of interest in Kaczynski’s beliefs, and this piece contributes to the ongoing conversation about the tenuousness of the global technological order
Examining Lake-Effect Changes Across the Great Lakes Utilizing Dynamically Downscaled Climate Simulations
No full textThe Laurentian Great Lakes are home to unique mesoscale lake-effect snow bands that often form in the boreal cold season under specific conditions and are notorious for extreme whiteout conditions, high snowfall accumulations, and localized impacts to travel and economics across the region. The electrification of lake-effect snow bands via locally intense convection can produce thundersnow, creating potential hazards for infrastructure and those outside. These events develop under temperature, wind speed and shear, and instability conditions, which are expected to change in a warming climate. Thus, it is important to understand how climate change could impact lake-effect precipitation. General circulation models (GCMs), which are the primary tools used to study climate change and its impacts on weather systems, are currently too coarse to resolve mesoscale processes, such as lake-effect precipitation, which has posed a challenge for prior studies. Downscaling of these GCM simulations is needed to more accurately resolve the relevant process. This study examines new data from a high-resolution dynamically downscaled GCM over the contiguous United States. These new data provide a resolution sufficient to explicitly resolve convective processes, such as those pertinent for lake-effect precipitation, and can be used to quantify spatial and temporal changes in lake-effect snow processes. Two 15-year periods of data are examined, consisting of historical (1990-2005) and end-of-century (2085-2100) conditions under the Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) 8.5 climate scenario. It is found that snowfall from lake-effect snow events is expected to retain their intensity or even increase in intensity over certain parts of the region. The most intense lake-effect snowfalls are expected to become even more intense, especially off portions of Lake Superior and Lake Huron. This increase in intensity is due to increasing lake surface air temperatures and therefore lower-level instability for lake-effect bands to utilize, although the temperatures remain cold enough for precipitation to remain as snow. Owing to the increase in temperature, lake-effect snowfall occurrences are also more constrained to the core winter season and are expected to decrease by the end of the century. Likewise, continuous snowfall events are expected to produce more snowfall on average while becoming less common and slightly longer in duration. With increased low-level instability lake-effect snow bands are expected to become deeper and contain stronger updrafts, perhaps increasing the number of lake-effect electrification and thundersnow occurrences in a warming world
PARAMETERIZING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN EEG AND EMG DURING PRESCRIBED MOVEMENT
Get PDFUnderstanding the relationship between electrical activity within the cerebral cortex of the brain and muscular output is essential for advancing neuroprosthetic design and neuromotor rehabilitation. This thesis establishes and parameterizes the relationship between electroencephalography (EEG) and electromyography (EMG) signals during the prescribed contraction of the forearm and hand muscles in squeezing motions. First, it was confirmed that a reduction in alpha-band activity at the C3 EEG electrode corresponds to increased signal power in the flexor carpi radialis EMG electrode, upporting the hypothesis of cortical-motor coupling. Second, autoregressive (AR) models were constructed to characterize the spectral and stochastic properties of both EEG and EMG signals, achieving spectral flatness values of 0.91 and 0.96 inthe EEG and EMG models, respectively. Finally, a novel transfer function is proposed that defines the EEG-to-EMG system - yielding EMG-like output with a normalized spectral error of approximately 0.37 - and two methods of transfer function order selection are compared. These findings demonstrate the utility of system identification techniques in mapping cortical activity to muscular response, contributing to the development of interpretable and straightforward EEG-EMG models. Further, it may help to facilitate real-time control in brain-computer interfaces and related assistive technologies
Can a Global Climate Model Reproduce a Tornado Outbreak Atmospheric Pattern? Methodology and a Case Study
Get PDFFinancial support was provided by the University of Oklahoma Libraries' Open Access Fund.Tornado outbreaks can cause substantial damage, injuries, and fatalities, highlighting the need to understand their characteristics for assessing present and future risks. However, global climate models (GCMs) lack the resolution to explicitly simulate tornado outbreaks. As an alternative, researchers examine large-scale atmospheric ingredients that approximate tornado-conducive environments. Building on this approach, we tested whether patterns of covariability between WMAXSHEAR and 500-hPa geopotential height anomalies, previously identified in ERA5 reanalysis, could approximate major U.S. May tornado outbreaks in a GCM. We developed a proxy-based methodology by systematically testing pairs of thresholds for both variables to identify the combination that best reproduced the leading pattern selected for analysis. These thresholds were then applied to simulations from the high-resolution MPI-ESM1.2-HR model to assess its ability to reproduce the original pattern. Results show that the model closely mirrored the observed tornado outbreak pattern, as indicated by a low normalized root mean square error, high spatial correlation, and similar distributions. This study demonstrates a replicable approach for approximating tornado outbreak patterns, applied here to the leading pattern, within a GCM, providing a foundation for future research on how such environments might evolve in a warming climate.Ye
Synthetic Nanoparticle Cytokine (SyNK) for Systemic Dosing and Immunotherapy
No full textCytokines are potent proteins responsible for cell signaling and regulation of the immune system. The use of cytokines to modulate macrophage phenotype is a promising therapeutic strategy for immune-mediated diseases; however, translation of recombinant cytokines as drug products is limited by cytokines’ severe systemic side effects and nonspecific biodistribution. While immense pre-clinical effort has been invested in the development of cytokine therapies, the limited number of FDA-approved recombinant cytokine products include either the free protein or its PEGylated variant. No approved products leverage biomaterial-based drug carriers to overcome the biodistribution and toxicity limitations of the recombinant cytokine molecule. While PEGylation improves the pharmacokinetics of intravenously administered cytokine products through extended circulation half-life, it does not provide spatial or temporal control over the cytokine’s activity. Hydrogel nanoparticles (i.e., nanogels, NGs) are a promising platform to address this unmet need to precisely modulate the immune response in target tissues. Through the rational design of nanogel physicochemical and functional properties, NGs can enhance the biodistribution and stability of cytokines while minimizing off-target effects.The overarching goal of this dissertation was to develop a safe and modular platform for the delivery of immunomodulatory cytokines using NGs. We developed a synthetic poly(acrylamide-co-methacrylic acid) nanogel - based cytokine delivery system (called “Synthetic Nanoparticle cytoKine, or SyNK) designed to restrict cytokines’ systemic release under circulatory conditions while preserving bioactivity upon co-localization with, or uptake by, target immune cells. The project had three objectives: (1) characterize the biocompatibility and cellular uptake of the NG in vitro; (2) assess the pharmacokinetics and biodistribution of the NG in vivo; and (3) evaluate molecular mechanisms through which SyNK modulates macrophage phenotype in diverse immunological environments. SyNK showed significant biocompatibility with cultured macrophages and circulating immune cells, with minimal cytotoxicity and immune activation. Macrophages internalized SyNK primarily though clathrin-mediated endocytosis, while interestingly, fibroblasts and circulating whole blood-derived immune cells showed negligible uptake. These observations suggested a degree of selectivity that could facilitate macrophage-based cytokine delivery in vivo. Pharmacokinetic studies revealed that systemically administered SyNK was cleared in less than 1 hour from the circulation and accumulated primarily in the kidneys, liver, and small intestine. Within the liver, cellular distribution studies confirmed uptake primarily by endothelial cells and resident macrophages. Despite accumulation, safety studies did not reveal any toxicity to these organs. Once safety was established, SyNK was synthesized by conjugating either IFNγ, IL4, or IL10 to the nanogel, which effectively eliminated the diffusion-mediated release of free cytokine to aqueous surroundings. Macrophages treated with SyNK exhibited phenotypic changes consistent with free protein, but at a lower potency, indicating that NG-cytokine conjugation influenced bioactivity. Furthermore, the immunomodulatory effects of IL4 and IL10 were dependent on the surrounding immune microenvironment and the intrinsic properties of the NG, suggesting that the platform can provide context-dependent immune modulation. This dissertation establishes the foundation for a tunable and biocompatible delivery platform that can improve the application of cytokines for macrophage immunotherapy. Future research efforts should (1) optimize the conjugation strategy of SyNK to maximize bioactivity, (2) assess the biodistribution and activity of SyNK in relevant disease models, and (3) evaluate its therapeutic potential of SyNK, relative to freely soluble recombinant cytokines, to treat local or systemic inflammatory conditions
Node-Solution Microenvironment Governs the Selectivity of Thioanisole Oxidation within Catalytic Zr-Based Metal–Organic FrameworkClick to copy article link
Get PDFFinancial support was provided by the University of Oklahoma Libraries' Open Access Fund.Lewis acidic metal oxides, including zirconia (ZrO2), are catalytically active toward oxidative reactions in the presence of sacrificial oxidants like t-butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP). The structural ambiguity and heterogeneity of the ZrO2 surface impose challenges to chemists in understanding the reaction mechanism down to atomic-level precision. The inorganic, Zr-oxo nodes of many crystalline metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) structurally mimic ZrO2. Herein, we report three novel findings: (A) Zr-based MOF, Zr-MOF-808 is catalytically competent in activating TBHP to induce oxygen atom transfer (OAT) reactions to a model substrate, thioanisole, at room temperature, (B) its reaction mechanism can be derived with greater structural precision owing to the crystallinity of the MOF, and (C) the node-binding agent and other reaction conditions significantly impact the selectivity between the singly oxidized methyl phenyl sulfoxide vs the doubly oxidized sulfone. These findings suggest that both the activity and selectivity of OAT reactions within Zr-MOF-808 are governed by the chemistry occurring at the interface of the node and the surrounding reaction medium. Implications of these findings in OAT reactions and other MOF/metal oxide-catalyzed relevant catalysis are discussed.Ye
Hope and General Self-Efficacy: Comparing Two Similar Constructs and Measurement Scales
Get PDFAbstract This study examines the similarities and differences between the constructs of hope and general self-efficacy by analyzing the measurement scales of Schwarzer and Jerusalem’s General Perceived Self-Efficacy Scale (1995), and Snyder's Adult Hope Trait Scale (1991). The study was designed to determine if the measurement scales were distinct and whether hope scores explain variance beyond generalized self-efficacy scores when correlated with Diener's Flourishing Scale (2010) in measuring well-being. The study was administered to employees (n=267) of human service, non-profit organizations in an urban city of the Southern U.S. plains. The results of an exploratory factor analysis established that factors related to hope and general self-efficacy are separate and distinct measures, with some correlations and shared variance. After confirming these distinct constructs, a hierarchical multiple regression analysis established that hope explained variance beyond general self-efficacy when correlated with Diener's Flourishing Scale. There is evidence suggesting that hope may also have a mediating effect on the relationship between general self-efficacy and well-being. Lastly, as separate concepts have been established, the utility of hope may be a more useful variable for researchers in studies related to well-being.Keywords: Hope, General Self-Efficacy, Self-Efficacy, Exploratory Factor Analysis, Common Factor Analysis, Hierarchical Multiple Regression, Flourishing, Well-Bein
Performance Psychology and Musician Wellness: Foundations for Sustainable Practice Habits
Get PDFThe purpose of this dissertation is to provide a model for musicians to build sustainable and effective practice habits through the understanding of educational psychology, wellness, and deliberate practice. This research stemmed from the idea of “how do I practice?” Practicing is more than execution of woodshedding and is a combination of psychological elements, wellness, and habit formation. I define “musicians” broadly as a category of lifelong learners who are continuing and aspiring to improve their performance skills, whether a student, professional, or hobbyist. I explore the origins of performance psychology and its relevance to music, writing for musicians of all skill levels. Examining concepts such as educational psychology, metacognition, and neuroplasticity shows that understanding how the brain functions can enhance musical growth. I examine how performance psychology can assist musicians in boosting confidence, managing anxiety, and overcoming perfectionism to improve their performance. I focus on the influence of self-esteem on musicians' cognitive and emotional states in this document, which can lead to detrimental thought patterns and reduced motivation. Practicing present-moment awareness promotes mental health, decreases performance anxiety, and encourages a mindset grounded in positive self-reflection. These principles play a crucial role in developing effective practice routines, leading to successful performances and increased self-worth. Consistent and structured music practice enhances technical skills and elevates overall performance quality. By integrating concepts from psychology, wellness, and deliberate practice techniques, musicians can cultivate sustainable practice habits that improve focus, prevent burnout, and promote long-term growth
ROC Analysis of Biomarker Combinations in Fragile X Syndrome-Specific Clinical Trials: Evaluating Treatment Efficacy via Exploratory Biomarkers
Get PDFFinancial support was provided by the University of Oklahoma Libraries' Open Access Fund.Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder caused by a trinucleotide repeat expansion on the 5’ untranslated region of the FMR1 gene. FXS is characterized by intellectual disability, anxiety, sensory hypersensitivity, and difficulties with executive function. A recent phase 2 placebo-controlled clinical trial assessing BPN14770, a first-in-class phosphodiesterase 4D allosteric inhibitor, in 30 adult males (age 18-41 years) with FXS demonstrated cognitive improvements on the NIH Toolbox Cognitive Battery in domains related to language and caregiver reports of improvement in both daily functioning and language. However, individual physiological measures from electroencephalography (EEG) demonstrated only marginal significance for trial efficacy. A secondary analysis of resting state EEG data collected as part of the phase 2 clinical trial evaluating BPN14770 was conducted using a machine learning classification algorithm to classify trial conditions (i.e., baseline, drug, placebo) via linear EEG variable combinations. The algorithm identified a composite of peak alpha frequencies (PAF) across multiple brain regions as a potential biomarker demonstrating BPN14770 efficacy. Increased PAF from baseline was associated with drug but not placebo. Given the relationship between PAF and cognitive function among typically developed adults and those with intellectual disability, as well as previously reported reductions in alpha frequency and power in FXS, PAF represents a potential physiological measure of BPN14770 efficacy.Ye
Quantify the spatio-temporal variability and changes of terrestrial gross primary production across the globe during 2000-2024
Get PDFGross Primary Production (GPP) is the largest carbon flux in terrestrial ecosystems and plays a critical role in the global carbon cycle, climate regulation, ecosystem integrity, biodiversity maintenance, and food security. The ability to continuously and accurately observe and simulate GPP is fundamental for improving our understanding of biogeochemical feedback, assessing ecosystem responses to environmental change, and informing land management and sustainability strategies. Currently, GPP is primarily derived from eddy covariance flux tower observations and remote sensing-driven model products. However, existing global GPP datasets show considerable disagreement in both magnitude and seasonal dynamics, underscoring the need to improve GPP modeling frameworks for more robust global estimates. Additionally, the impact of natural disturbances (e.g., wildfire) on GPP and its post-disturbance recovery patterns remains poorly understood due to a lack of systematic assessments. This dissertation presents the development, improvement, and application of the Vegetation Photosynthesis Model (VPM), a light use efficiency (LUE) model, as a tool for global GPP estimation. This dissertation addresses two central research questions: (1) Can the newly developed improved versions of the VPM model (v3.0 and v4.0) accurately simulate both the magnitude and seasonal variation of GPP across site and global scales (Chapters 2–5)? (2) How do wildfire disturbances alter ecosystem carbon uptake (GPP), and what are the environmental drivers of post-fire GPP recovery trajectories (Chapters 6–7)? Key findings show that VPM v3.0 can effectively capture observed GPP seasonality at four long-term deciduous broadleaf forest flux tower sites (2000–2020) and across 205 globally distributed sites (spanning 1658 site-years and 11 biomes), with high agreement to flux data (slope = 0.97, R2 = 0.78, RMSE = 1.46 g C m-2 day-1). The model-derived global GPP was estimated at 143 ± 4 Pg C yr-1, and its 8-day time-series product showed strong agreement with other benchmark GPP datasets (e.g., VPM v2.0, BEPS, MOD17, GOSIF, BESS, and FLUXCOM), with correlation coefficients ranging from 0.88 to 0.95. Further extending the model, I incorporated atmospheric CO2 effects into VPM to develop VPM v4.0, which produced a higher global GPP estimate of 155 ± 6 Pg C yr-1, aligning with recent global estimations (150-175 Pg C yr-1). The model also captured interannual GPP variability (1.18 Pg C yr-1) and long-term increasing trends (0.78 Pg C yr-2). Using the GPP dataset estimated by VPM v3.0, I investigated the impacts of fire in two contrasting fire-prone regions: Australia and high-latitude forests. In Australia, I found that ecosystems show strong and rapid post-fire GPP recovery, primarily driven by post-fire precipitation. As a result, interannual variations in continental-scale GPP were more influenced by climate and land-use change than by fire, due to effective compensatory recovery. In high-latitude forests, the first-year post-fire GPP recovery rate has declined since the early 2000s, mainly due to intensifying fire severity, increasing temperature, and vapor pressure deficit (VPD), and decreasing soil moisture. Overall, this dissertation highlights the importance of estimating long-term, high-accuracy GPP products and improves our understanding of ecosystem responses to disturbance through a refined modeling framework. The insights gained offer valuable contributions to carbon cycle research and provide actionable tools for evaluating biosphere–atmosphere feedback under ongoing global change