cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Reducing sphere decoder complexity by elliptical tree pruning

We propose a computationally efficient detection algorithm with near ML performance for space-time communications systems. Our algorithm is based on pruning (excluding) branches from the search tree arising in the sphere decoding (SD) algorithm. The choice of the branches to be pruned relies on intuitive geometrical reasoning which is in turn based on a simplified channel model designed to capture the effect of badly conditioned channel realizations. The remaining search tree after pruning can be processed by the conventional SD algorithm with strongly reduced complexity as against scanning the complete tree. Simulation results show that despite the pruning near ML results can be obtained.
Homeostasis-Stimulated Proliferation Drives Naive T Cells to Differentiate Directly into Memory T Cells

The developmental requirements for immunological memory, a central feature of adaptive immune responses, is largely obscure. We show that as naive CD8 T cells undergo homeostasis-driven proliferation in lymphopenic mice in the absence of overt antigenic stimulation, they progressively acquire phenotypic and functional characteristics of antigen-induced memory CD8 T cells. Thus, the homeostasis-induced memory CD8 T cells express typical memory cell markers, lyse target cells directly in vitro and in vivo, respond to lower doses of antigen than naive cells, and secrete interferon γ faster upon restimulation. Like antigen-induced memory T cell differentiation, the homeostasis-driven process requires T cell proliferation and, initially, the presence of appropriate restricting major histocompatibility complexes, but it differs by occurring without effector cell formation and without requiring interleukin 2 or costimulation via CD28. These findings define repetitive cell division plus T cell receptor ligation as the basic requirements for naive to memory T cell differentiation.
A 5.8 GHz fully integrated low power low phase noise CMOS LC VCO for WLAN applications

A fully integrated low power and low phase noise 5.8 GHz VCO is designed and fabricated in standard 0.24 /spl mu/m single-poly, 5-metal digital CMOS process. The VCO-core draws 2 mA of current from a 2.5 V supply. Measured phase noise at 1 MHz offset from the center frequency is -112 dBc/Hz. It has a tuning range of 810 MHz with low phase noise performance throughout the tuning range. It meets the requirements for IEEE802.11a WLAN standard. Low power and low phase noise have been achieved simultaneously by the use of np complementary cross-coupled topology. The novel orientation of the inductor pair used in the design minimizes the effect of any unwanted common-mode magnetic coupling that may arise from other on-chip inductors in an integrated environment.
On Testing a Trend in Means in Oneway Layout

A test for a trend in means in oneway layout is discussed with particular emphasis on sample size determination. The proposed method amounts to formulating a linear contrast among sample means and testing it for significance. The resulting test statistic is reduced to a test by Barlow et al. (1972) When sample sizes are equal and to the Armitage-Kendall correlation test for a trend in proportions when the response variable is dichotomous. The problem of sample size determination is discussed and illustrated with numerical examples.
Radiation Exposure Considerations When Employing Microwave-Excited Spectroscopic Sources

Studies are described which demonstrate the presence of microwave radiation levels exceeding the present national safety standards in the vicinity of several common microwave-excited source configurations. Since the various pathological effects of microwave energy are not fully understood, shielding considerations and on-site radiation surveys are recommended.
“Sacred Moments”: Social anxiety in a larger perspective

A treatment protocol was developed and piloted to examine whether perception of the sacred dimensions of their lives can be enhanced for people with social anxiety, and if so, whether that has therapeutic benefit. A 10-session manualized group treatment was developed to increase perception of sacredness in various domains of daily life. The treatment is described, as are preliminary results from two pilot groups. The small sample size limits quantitative analysis, but qualitative follow-up interviews, single-case analysis, and case material indicate decreased anxiety over time. Enhanced sense of sacredness appeared useful in broadening attentional focus, interrupting dysfunctional thought patterns, and generating behaviors incompatible with social anxiety. Focusing on sacredness instead of symptoms allowed participants to form supportive interpersonal relationships within the group, providing a corrective experience of social interaction. Although health professionals rarely discuss religion and spiritual...
Potential redistribution of tree species habitat under five climate change scenarios in the eastern US

Global climate change could have profound effects on the Earth’s biota, including large redistributions of tree species and forest types. We used DISTRIB, a deterministic regression tree analysis model, to examine environmental drivers related to current forest-species distributions and then model potential suitable habitat under five climate change scenarios associated with a doubling of atmospheric CO2. Potential shifts in suitable habitat for 76 common tree species in the eastern US were evaluated based on more than 100,000 plots and 33 environmental variables related to climate, soils, land use, and elevation. Regression tree analysis was used to devise prediction rules from current species‐environment relationships. These rules were used to replicate the current distribution and predict the potential suitable habitat for more than 2100 counties east of the 100th meridian. The calculation of an importance value-weighted area score, averaged across the five climate scenarios, allowed comparison among species for their overall potential to be affected by climate change. When this score was averaged across all five climate scenarios, 34 tree species were projected to expand by at least 10%, while 31 species could decrease by at least 10%. Several species (Populus tremuloides, P. grandidentata, Acer saccharum, Betula papyrifera, Thuja occidentalis) could have their suitable habitat extirpated from US. Depending on the scenario, the optimum latitude of suitable habitat moved north more than 20 km for 38‐47 species, including 8‐27 species more than 200 km or into Canada. Although the five scenarios were in general agreement with respect to the overall tendencies in potential future suitable habitat, significant variations occurred in the amount of potential movement in many of the species. The five scenarios were ranked for their severity on potential tree habitat changes. Actual species redistributions, within the suitable habitat modeled here, will be controlled by migration rates through fragmented landscapes, as well as human manipulations. # 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
Anticoagulation and the Heart

Cardiovascular disease is associated with a heightened risk of thrombosis that can manifest as acute myocardial infarction, cardiac death, and stroke. Similarly, valvular heart disease (which alters blood-flow dynamics) and the insertion of prosthetic materials (which stimulates localized thrombosis on foreign surfaces) are associated with platelet aggregation and thrombin-mediated bioamplification of the coagulation cascade. Physiologic principles and pathobiologic mechanisms determine the preferred means either to prevent or attenuate both thrombosis and subsequent cardiovascular events. Anticoagulant therapy in hospital- and outpatient-based settings has appropriately assumed a central role in the prevention and treatment of thrombotic disorders of the cardiovascular system. Carefully-designed clinical trials will establish safe and effective antithrombotic therapies for wide-scale implementation.
Frameless Cyberknife radiosurgery for metastatic and primary brain tumors

11527 Background: Cyberknife delivers image-guided stereotactic radiation to intracranial and extracranial skull base tumors without a frame. This frameless feature makes Cyberknife a completely no...
Abstract 235: Association Between Abnormal Ankle-Brachial Index and Accelerometer-Derived Sedentary and Exercise Time in the Asymptomatic General Population

Objectives: Sedentary behavior is a distinct adverse health risk factor that is independent of physical activity. The association between sedentary behavior, exercise activity and ankle-brachial index (ABI) is not well understood. Methods: We analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2003-2004. Participants were included if they had ABI testing and at least one day of accelerometer data with exclusion of participants with self-reported anatomical or functional impairments to ambulation. Accelerometer counts reflect the intensity of activity in 1-minute intervals up to seven days for all participants. We used previously established exercise intensity-threshold criteria to quantify moderate-vigorous physical activity time. Sedentary time was defined as <100 counts/minute. We defined abnormal ABI as a value <1.0 (to include borderline values) in either foot. We performed multi-variable adjusted logistic regression analyses with sedentary time and exercise time as the independent variables and abnormal ABI as the dependent variable, adjusting for important risk factors and confounders. In a sensitivity analysis, we restricted the definition of abnormal ABI to <0.95. Results: We included 1,443 asymptomatic participants (mean age 61 years, 49% female, 55% current/prior smokers). The mean daily sedentary and exercise times in the study population were 454 ± 144 and 17.7 ± 20.3 minutes, respectively. 23.0% had an abnormal ABI (8.7% with ABI <0.9). In the final multivariable model, sedentary time was associated with increased odds of abnormal ABI (p=0.018) while exercise time was associated with reduced odds of abnormal ABI (p=0.003), independent of traditional risk factors and confounders (Figure, continuous variables per 1 standard deviation). Restricting the analysis to abnormal ABI<0.95, sedentary time and exercise time remained significant (p=0.024 and p=0.018, respectively). Conclusions: Sedentary time is associated with abnormal ABI values independent of exercise activity and other potential confounders in asymptomatic patients in the general population. Prospective studies are warranted to further evaluate the potential etiologic role of activity profiles on the development of peripheral arterial disease. ![][1] [1]: /embed/graphic-1.gif
Emotion expression, avoidance and psychological health during reintegration A dyadic analysis of actor and partner associations within a sample of military couples

We evaluated the extent to which military service members’ and their significant others’ coping strategies (i.e., individual use of emotion expression and avoidance) were independently associated with their own—and each other’s—psychological health during reintegration using an actor–partner interdependence model. We simultaneously evaluated actor associations (e.g., associations between service members’ own coping and psychological health) and partner associations (e.g., associations between service members’ coping and their significant others’ psychological health) with a sample of 175 National Guard couples who recently experienced deployment. We further evaluated (1) whether there were interactive associations among partners’ coping strategies and (2) whether service members’ level of combat exposure moderated any of these associations. Results indicated that, for both service members and significant others, psychological health was positively associated with one’s own emotion expression and negativel...
Fluid Management, Volume Overload, and Gastrointestinal Tolerance in the Perioperative Period

This following is an extensive review of the practice of fluid administration in various medical and surgical disease states and the resilience of the intestinal track compared with other organ systems in maintaining preserved function in a fluid-overloaded state. Recent evidence supports a more conservative and even goal-directed fluid treatment strategy in cardiac, pulmonary, and septic medical conditions. However, the evidence is not as strong in favoring a restrictive versus a more liberal fluid strategy in several surgical specialties including general surgery and colorectal surgery. Despite the negative consequences of excessive fluid administration on the cardiopulmonary and gastrointestinal systems, enteral nutrition changes gene expression and increases intestinal aquaporin channels in edematous small bowel allowing tolerance.
A Study of a Cognitive Training Program: Trainer Styles and Group Development

Two groups of managers involved in a cognitive-oriented training program were studied. The structured or directive style was found to be more effective in achieving group cohesiveness, minimizing p...
Postfledging dispersal, habitat use, and home-range size of juvenile wood Thrushes

Although the availability of suitable postfledging habitat potentially is piv- otal to juvenile Neotropical migratory birds, data on dispersal, habitat use, and home-range size are limited. We used radio telemetry to study the postfledging ecology of juvenile Wood Thrushes (Hylocichla mustelina) in the Ozark Mountains of southern Missouri. Natal home ranges were in mature oak-hickory forest, and natal home-range size ranged from 2.6 to 24.8 ha. Juveniles dispersed independently from their natal home ranges to post-dispersal ranges, with a mean dispersal direction of 185.2 + SD of 77.20 and a mean distance of 2.08 ? 1.48 km. Habitats used after dispersal differed from natal habitats and included early succes- sional oak-hickory and pine forests, mid-successional pine forest, mature riparian forest, and forest/field edges. These habitats were characterized by a dense understory and thick ground cover. Post-dispersal home-range size averaged 1.53 ha. Our data suggest that in large tracts of mature deciduous forest, a mosaic of early and mid-successional forest stands, along with mature riparian forest, will accommodate both the breeding and post-dispersal habitat requirements of Wood Thrushes and other Neotropical migratory birds. Received 21
Challenges in determining how child work affects child health

Credible findings from well-crafted research studies are essential in assessing the impact of child work on children's health. Researchers, however, encounter significant challenges in defining the relevant group of workers for a study and identifying an appropriate comparison group. This article describes some of those challenges and explains how choices about study and comparison groups can lead to biased research results. When selecting study groups, researchers should be aware that the impact of work on health may depend on the type and intensity of the work, and on the context in which it occurs. They should avoid drawing conclusions about the health effects of particular work situations from studies of very heterogeneous groups of workers and should not overgeneralize from studies of more homogenous groups. When choosing comparison groups, researchers should select children whose health outcomes are likely to be comparable to the outcomes working children would experience if they did not work. In particular, researchers should attempt to find children who are similar to the workers of interest on relevant non-work characteristics, including socioeconomic status and levels of parental education. In addition, they should consider the extent to which healthier children are more likely to select into the labor force as a result of decisions by parents or employers, or due to their own greater fitness. Ideally, studies of the health effects of child work should use multiple comparison groups, including children who work in relatively safe, non-strenuous occupations.
O’Connorian Models of Development: How States Literally Build Economic Growth

Chapter 1 made a strong argument that the state policies that create employment and reduce poverty in the Third World are often the same policies that create employment and reduce poverty in the wealthy nations. This is in contrast to models of “late development” where the role of the state is to compensate for some kind of handicaps that peripheral and semi-peripheral economies face when dealing with adverse market and political pressures from the core. This is not to say that these adverse pressures do not exist. Nor is it maintained that compensatory strategies do not work. There is a distinguished pedigree of outstanding analysis in development sociology and economics ranging from Alexander Gershenkron (1962), to Peter Evans (1979) to Dani Rodrik (2007) who have established without a doubt that there are unique developmental strategies that apply to poor nations and to specific poor nations … and that these distinctive strategies can be very effective.
Exploratory Factor Analysis of the Trauma and Attachment Belief Scale Among Partners of Service Members

The Trauma and Attachment Belief Scale (TABS; Pearlman, 2003) was developed to evaluate levels of cognitive schema disruption in 5 areas (safety, trust, intimacy, control, and esteem) identified by constructivist self-development theory as being sensitive to the effects of trauma. Although the TABS
Histories of Perceived Job Insecurity and Psychological Distress Among Older U.S. Adults

Changes in the labor market and employment contracts over the past several decades and a recent global recession have increased the salience of perceived job insecurity as a risk factor for poor me...
Redundancy of einselected information in quantum Darwinism: The irrelevance of irrelevant environment bits

The objective, classical world emerges from the underlying quantum substrate via the proliferation of redundant copies of selected information into the environment, which acts as a communication channel, transmitting that information to observers. These copies are independently accessible, allowing many observers to reach consensus about the state of a quantum system via its imprints in the environment. Quantum Darwinism recognizes that the redundancy of information is thus central to the emergence of objective reality in the quantum world. However, in addition to the ``quantum system of interest,'' there are many other systems ``of no interest'' in the Universe that can imprint information on the common environment. There is therefore a danger that the information of interest will be diluted with irrelevant bits, suppressing the redundancy responsible for objectivity. We show that mixing of the relevant (the ``wheat'') and irrelevant (the ``chaff'') bits of information makes little quantitative difference to the redundancy of the information of interest. Thus, we demonstrate that it does not matter whether one separates the wheat (relevant information) from the (irrelevant) chaff: The large redundancy of the relevant information survives dilution, providing evidence of the objective, effectively classical world.
The Use of GPS Disciplined Oscillators as Primary Frequency Standards for Calibration and Metrology Laboratories

An increasing number of calibration and metrology laboratories now employ a Global Positioning System disciplined oscillator (GPSDO) as their primary standard for frequency. GPSDOs have the advanta...
Abstract 243: Diet and exercise-induced weight maintenance, alone and in combination with a whole tumor cell vaccine, delays mammary tumor growth and reduces MDSC accumulation

Obesity and physical inactivity increase breast cancer risk, while the prevention of weight gain by diet and exercise can be protective. Numerous biological mechanism(s) have been proposed to explain the beneficial effects of weight maintenance; however few studies have examined the immune response to energy balance. We have previously shown that diet and exercise-induced weight maintenance (WM) achieved via a 10% restriction in calories and access to voluntary running wheels in combination with a whole tumor cell vaccine (VAX) significantly reduced mammary tumor growth and metastases in the 4T1 mammary tumor model. This WM-induced reduction in tumor growth occurred concurrently with an elevation in tumor specific IFN-γ production and a reduction in the number of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs). However, because tumor size is positively correlated with immune suppression, the goal of the current study was to investigate if mice in the WM+VAX intervention had enhanced anti-tumor immune responses and/or fewer MDSCs controlling for tumor size. Female BALB/c mice were randomized into weight gain (WG) and WM groups (n=8/group) and had access to voluntary running wheels or standard cages, respectively. WG mice were fed ad libitum while WM mice were energy-restricted by 10% to maintain a stable body weight. After 8 weeks on the intervention, all mice were orthotopically injected with 5x104 4T1.2 cells into the fourth mammary fat pad and continued on their intervention. Once injected, both WG and WM mice were further randomized into vaccination (VAX) and vehicle control (VEH) groups (n=4/gr) and administered 1x106 irradiated 4T1.2 cells (VAX) or HBSS (VEH) at day 7 post-tumor implantation. Primary tumor growth was quantified, and mice were sacrificed when tumor volume reached 0.1-0.2 cm3. WM mice weighed significantly less than WG mice over the course of the study (p Citation Format: Yitong Xu, William J. Turbitt, Andrea M. Mastro, Connie J. Rogers. Diet and exercise-induced weight maintenance, alone and in combination with a whole tumor cell vaccine, delays mammary tumor growth and reduces MDSC accumulation [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2017; 2017 Apr 1-5; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 243. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2017-243
Infectious disease prediction with kernel conditional density estimation

Creating statistical models that generate accurate predictions of infectious disease incidence is a challenging problem whose solution could benefit public health decision makers. We develop a new approach to this problem using kernel conditional density estimation (KCDE) and copulas. We obtain predictive distributions for incidence in individual weeks using KCDE and tie those distributions together into joint distributions using copulas. This strategy enables us to create predictions for the timing of and incidence in the peak week of the season. Our implementation of KCDE incorporates 2 novel kernel components: a periodic component that captures seasonality in disease incidence and a component that allows for a full parameterization of the bandwidth matrix with discrete variables. We demonstrate via simulation that a fully parameterized bandwidth matrix can be beneficial for estimating conditional densities. We apply the method to predicting dengue fever and influenza and compare to a seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average model and HHH4, a previously published extension to the generalized linear model framework developed for infectious disease incidence. The KCDE outperforms the baseline methods for predictions of dengue incidence in individual weeks. The KCDE also offers more consistent performance than the baseline models for predictions of incidence in the peak week and is comparable to the baseline models on the other prediction targets. Using the periodic kernel function led to better predictions of incidence. Our approach and extensions of it could yield improved predictions for public health decision makers, particularly in diseases with heterogeneous seasonal dynamics such as dengue fever.
Generalized Input Impedance Modeling of TL-Network-Based HFDPS for Validating Frequency-Dependent Criteria for Power-Signal Integrity

Adjusting the transmission-line (TL) length or using active compensation is pursued in high-frequency-distributed power systems (HFDPSs) as a possible remedy for addressing the TL effects. Although adjusting the TL length is primarily limited to printed-circuit-board (PCB) level implementations, active compensation yields higher expense and complexity. To mitigate TL effects under periodic condition, generalized input impedance modeling of a TL-network-based HFDPS feeding linear load(s) is provided. Using this generalized model, a frequency-dependent criterion for maintaining power-signal integrity is outlined for scenario centric single-/multiple-input single-/multiple-output HFDPS topologies. Selection of such a transmission frequency is important for designing a HFDPS to avoid deterioration of voltage and current, rupturing the TL insulation, and increased losses owing to the TL effect. Validations of the frequency-dependent criteria have been carried out using simulation and experiments in time and frequency domains.
Chemical Similarity Enrichment Analysis (ChemRICH) as alternative to biochemical pathway mapping for metabolomic datasets

Metabolomics answers a fundamental question in biology: How does metabolism respond to genetic, environmental or phenotypic perturbations? Combining several metabolomics assays can yield datasets for more than 800 structurally identified metabolites. However, biological interpretations of metabolic regulation in these datasets are hindered by inherent limits of pathway enrichment statistics. We have developed ChemRICH, a statistical enrichment approach that is based on chemical similarity rather than sparse biochemical knowledge annotations. ChemRICH utilizes structure similarity and chemical ontologies to map all known metabolites and name metabolic modules. Unlike pathway mapping, this strategy yields study-specific, non-overlapping sets of all identified metabolites. Subsequent enrichment statistics is superior to pathway enrichments because ChemRICH sets have a self-contained size where p-values do not rely on the size of a background database. We demonstrate ChemRICH's efficiency on a public metabolomics data set discerning the development of type 1 diabetes in a non-obese diabetic mouse model. ChemRICH is available at www.chemrich.fiehnlab.ucdavis.edu.
Conflicts of Interest of Public Speakers at Meetings of the Anesthetic and Analgesic Drug Products Advisory Committee.

This data review investigates the characteristics and conflicts of interest of public speakers at Anesthetic and Analgesic Drug Products Advisory Committee meetings.
Current Account and Fiscal Policy Adjustment in the EMS

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the current account and fiscal policy adjustment in the EMS. During the 1980s, the surplus countries such as Germany have compensated for the deficits from countries such as Italy. The future integrated economic system of Europe would have a current account surplus vis a vis the rest of the world. A different discount rate can clearly alter savings decisions, and therefore the aggregate current account surplus of the European community. As long as countries remain culturally and socially distinct, current account imbalances across European countries can remain politically sensitive even within an economically unified Europe. Financially unified markets enforce fiscal discipline because governments that wish to borrow must face international markets. Overall, the future unification of financial markets in Europe raises a number of issues ranging from the financing of current account balances to the implications for fiscal austerity.
Fluorination of MXene by Elemental F2 as Electrode Material for Lithium-Ion Batteries

The transformation of MXene sheets into TiOF2 2D sheets with superior electrochemical performance was developed. MXene synthesized from Ti3 AlC2 was fluorinated for 3, 6, and 24 h, respectively, by means of a direct fluorination process. Exposure of MXene powder to elemental fluorine for 3 h induced the formation of CF2 groups and TiF3 on the surface, which have beneficial effects on the electrochemical performance. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy suggested that after fluorinating the MXene sample for 6 h Ti2+ and Ti3+ were not present on the surface but only Ti4+ , indicating the formation of TiOF2 . XRD indicated that TiOF2 was present after fluorinating for 3 h, and after 24 h the MXene had transformed to TiOF2 with minor impurities remaining, maintaining its 2D layer morphology. The 24 h fluorinated sample with its TiOF2 phase showed superior capacity that increased with cycle number. It also had a better rate capability than non-2D-layered TiOF2 , indicating the advantage of the 2D-layered morphology derived from the parent MXene phase.
Bromate Oxidation of Ammonium Salts: In Situ Acid Formation for Reservoir Stimulation.

A redox chemistry approach has been employed to synthesize an assortment of acids in the subterranean environment for the purpose of enhancing productivity from hydrocarbon-bearing rock formations....
Bioactive stability of microalgal protein hydrolysates under food processing and storage conditions

The stability of antioxidant protein hydrolysates from Spirulina sp. LEB 18 was evaluated under food processing conditions and after in vitro digestion. Protein hydrolysates with degrees of hydrolysis of 50.6% and 60% were obtained after 90 and 120 min of reaction, respectively, with Protemax 580 L. The results indicated that the antioxidant activity of protein hydrolysates was maintained following application of heat treatment (− 18 °C, 63 °C, and 100 °C). Moreover, the ability of protein hydrolysates to inhibit the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical was increased by nearly 25% upon exposure to acidified media (pH 4 and pH 6). In general terms, the protein hydrolysates were bioavailable after digestion with pepsin and pancreatin. This study supports the incorporation of bioactive peptides from microalgae into functional foods by demonstrating the maintenance of their biological activities in the face of food processing conditions and gastrointestinal digestion.
Supported Decision-Making

This chapter provides an overview of supported decision-making and its emergence in the disability field. The focus is on how supported decision-making aligns with strengths-based, social-ecological models of disability and how it provides an alternative to other-directed decision-making models, such as guardianship. We highlight theory and legal directions as well as directions for actualizing supported decision-making in practice including how assessment can be used to plan for the supports needed for decision making as well as the ways in which systems of supports can be created that enable people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to self-determine the supports they need for decision making. We highlight the roles of people with disabilities as well as those of supporters, including family members, adult service providers, educators, legal professionals, and healthcare professionals, and end with a case example of supported decision-making and how it impacts the lives of people with disabilities.
More Vulnerable? The Life Story Approach Highlights Older People's' Potential for Strength During the Pandemic.

OBJECTIVES: Older adults have repeatedly been referred to as more physically vulnerable during the COVID -19 pandemic. The pandemic, however, is not only about becoming physically ill. It has many psychosocial aspects: people are exposed to myriad life challenges. The life story approach does not ignore physical status but also emphasizes psychosocial strengths. It highlights that older people are likely to have developed resilience through experiencing life challenges and living across history. METHODS: We used the narrative method to review research on three strengths: tendency toward life reflection, adaptive use of personal memory, and temporal focus encouraging generativity. RESULTS: For each, we (i) present evidence that this strength manifests in the second half of life, and (ii) identify how it may specifically be applied in dealing with the challenges of the pandemic. In considering their life stories, the picture that emerges is one of older adults as having the potential to show considerable psychosocial strength despite the adversities of the pandemic. DISCUSSION: We conclude that during this period of sweeping change in the lives of individuals of all ages, our older citizens may act as valuable societal anchors.
Heat Transport in a Spin-Boson Model at Low Temperatures: A Multilayer Multiconfiguration Time-Dependent Hartree Study

Extending our previous work, quantum dynamic simulations are performed to study low temperature heat transport in a spin-boson model where a two-level subsystem is coupled to two independent harmonic baths. Multilayer multiconfiguration time-dependent Hartree theory is used to numerically evaluate the thermal flux, for which the bath is represented by hundreds to thousands of modes. The simulation results are compared with the approximate Redfield theory approach, and the physics is analyzed versus different physical parameters.
Systemic characteristics of biomarkers and differential metabolites of raw and ripened pu-erh teas by chemical methods combined with a UPLC-QQQ-MS-based metabolomic approach

Abstract Pu-erh tea is one of the most popular beverages in China and Southeast Asia, however, influences from fermentation and storage on its chemical profile and quality are unclear. Thus, bioactivities and metabolomes of raw (17-raw) and ripened teas (17-rip through 06-rip) were assessed using chemical methods and a UPLC-QQQ-MS-based metabolomic approach. Results evidence that chemical components and antioxidant activities of 17-rip through 06-rip were similar but lower than those of 17-raw. Subsequently, 842 metabolites were identified from 17-raw, 17-rip and 06-rip, of which 20 and 19 metabolites were biomarkers for discerning 17-rip from 17-raw and 06-rip, respectively. Between 17-raw and 17-rip, 536 differential metabolites were identified, and 17-rip contained higher levels of gallic acid, acetyl amino acids, purine alkaloids, pyrimidine alkaloids and non-glycoside flavonoids and lower levels of sour compounds, quinic acid derivatives, amino acids, flavonoids glycosides, and flavan-3-ols; all of them were found to be positively but gallic acid and acetyl amino acids negatively correlated with two tested bioactivities. Between 17-rip and 06-rip, 175 differential metabolites were identified, among which alkaloids positively correlated to the two bioactivities. Overall, this study identified biomarkers distinguishing teas with different fermentation processes and storage times and different metabolites affecting their tastes and bioactivities.
EMC Modeling and Conducted EMI Analysis for a Pulsed Power Generator System Including an AC–DC–DC Power Supply

High-voltage (HV) pulsed power generators are very important in plasma generation in corona discharge reactors. With the advent of new fast switches technologies such as silicon carbide (SiC) and gallium nitride (GaN), electromagnetic interference (EMI) noise in such systems are very challenging. In this article, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) modeling and conducted EMI analysis for a pulse generator including an ac–dc–dc power supply are developed. Moreover, the common mode (CM) EMI noise propagation through the system is discussed and the noise sources and effect of each component on the noise flowing are analyzed. The ac–dc–dc power supply role is also investigated and since there is an isolation stage in the system, the effect of high-frequency (HF) transformers that provide a flowing path for noise is also studied. In addition, the CM impedance of different parts of the system as well as the noise voltage are discussed by regarding different values for parasitic parameters of the system. As the system noise level could not meet IEC61800-3 standard, EMI attenuation techniques were applied to the system. By using balance technique and adding filtering inductor as a decoupling inductance, the EMI noise is reduced. Furthermore, an EMI filter optimized and designed for the power supply system that could reduce the EMI noise level. However, by using some EMI reduction techniques that are explained in this article, the size of the required EMI filter is reduced. In this article, EMC modeling, conducted EMI analysis, and EMI reduction techniques led to higher performance and efficiency and lower size of EMI filter that reduced the overall size of the system.
Economic and political inclusion in human development conditional income transfer programmes in Latin America

Abstract Human development conditional transfer programmes have been adopted by a majority of countries in Latin America to address the intergenerational persistence of poverty. Typically, programmes provide regular and reliable transfers in cash to households in poverty, with transfers conditional on children attending school and on household members attending health clinics. Rigorous impact evaluations have established that, on the whole, programmes reach their explicit objectives, especially as regards nutrition, childrens schooling and improved health care utilisation. It is too early to say whether human development programmes will be successful in reducing the intergenerational persistence of poverty in the region. To certain degree, this will depend on whether they contribute to the economic and political inclusion of groups in poverty and extreme poverty. To the extent that improvements in childrens schooling and health state cannot guarantee a successful inclusion in the labour market, or that transfers reinforce longstanding clientelistic practices in the region; the fuller economic and political inclusion of these groups might not materialise. The paper aims to throw light on these issues by assessing existing knowledge on the longer term effects of participation in human development transfer programmes leads on productive capacity, employment and political participation. It finds a mixed picture.
Race, Neighborhoods, and Sentencing: How Social Conditions and Neighborhood Types Affect Incarceration Disparities

Crime rates and criminal justice responses to them are unevenly distributed across communities in the United States. When court officials review a new case, they consider whether the alleged offend...
Modeling the Relationship Between Food and Civil Conflict

We built a system of systems model to better understand the relationship between the agricultural sector, other economic factors, and changes in the expected value of conflict. Our model integrates multiple factors, including food production, food trade, population, and civil conflict, and determines their interdependencies based on shared inputs or outputs. We find that severe food price shocks, precipitated by multiple breadbasket failures, can severely impact a country’s GDP and its ability to purchase and consume a sufficient amount of food, resulting in an increase in civil conflict and related casualties. A sharp population increase, as potentially caused by an immigration surge, was found to have a similar impact, though not as strong.
Flow visualization using plaster of Paris

The pattern of motion close to the surface of a plaster of Paris model immersed in a water stream is made visible by the marks caused when bubbles of entrapped gas or pits on the surface excite a local additional turbulence which leads to differential solution of the plaster. This technique of flow visualization is illustrated by reference to motions in a constricted channel, about a cylinder mounted on a flat plate, and over a skewed negative step. This technique finds application in experimental studies of sedimentary structures.
PAI-A Predictors of Treatment Response in a DBT-A-Informed Intervention for Adolescent Boys

Evidence-based assessment (EBA) involves using empirically validated psychological assessment measures to inform case conceptualization and treatment planning. EBA can improve clinical care by providing information relevant for treatment targets and expectations and can clarify how specific client characteristics may be associated with treatment outcomes. Research on EBA practices in relation to particularly challenging clinical problems (e.g., borderline personality disorder) can be especially useful for practitioners. The current study examines Personality Assessment Inventory-Adolescent (PAI-A) predictors of treatment completion, therapeutic alliance, and symptom change in a sample of 44 adolescent boys (Mage = 16.70, SD = 0.56; 75.0% White) in a residential boot camp program for at-risk youths. Participants completed Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Adolescents-informed skills training groups. PAI-A scales related to somatic complaints, depression, antisocial traits, aggression, borderline traits, problematic alcohol use, and interpersonal dominance, as well as an index measuring overall clinical severity, distinguished adolescents who completed the intervention from those who discontinued the intervention. Adolescents with more borderline personality features reported more modest improvements in emotion dysregulation. Additionally, interpersonal warmth was positively related to therapeutic alliance suggesting that client interpersonal style is an important contributor to client-rated therapeutic alliance.
Transition Research: Approaches to Measurement and Outcomes

Transition from pediatric to adult care for adolescents and young adults with and without chronic illness has been a growing area of research for many years. However, most research has focused on single disease experiences with limited outcomes and most often at a one institution. This review will describe common qualitative and quantitative research outcomes used in transition research and outline an agenda for future research utilizing the quadruple aim framework, including improved patient experiences, better health outcomes, lower cost of care, and improved provider experience.
Quantitative microbial risk assessment of human norovirus infection in environmental service workers due to healthcare-associated fomites.

Summary Background Healthcare-associated norovirus outbreaks place a large burden on healthcare staff. Environmental service workers (ESWs), however, remain understudied despite high contact with potentially contaminated surfaces. Understanding the magnitude of the risk of norovirus infection in healthcare ESWs can protect workers and improve infection control. Aim This study simulated the risk of norovirus infection for unprotected ESWs after a single fomite contact, assuming no disinfection or protective equipment, in norovirus-positive patient rooms. In addition, the risk of secondary surface transmission from norovirus-exposed ESWs was simulated. Methods A quantitative microbial risk assessment employing two-dimensional Monte Carlo simulation with parameters extracted from the literature was used to estimate norovirus infection from multiple fomite contact scenarios defined by: norovirus source (patient vomit/diarrhoea), location (bathroom/patient room) and target outcome (ESW/secondary illness). Findings Unprotected ESWs have a maximum estimated risk of norovirus infection of 33% (1:3) for a single fomite contact in a room where a norovirus-positive patient had a diarrhoeal event. Patient vomit events lead to fomite contact risk estimates that are four orders of magnitude lower than those for diarrhoeal events. The estimated risk of secondary illness from touching a common surface is as high as 25% (1:4) after single fomite exposure following a diarrhoeal event. Conclusions A single fomite contact may lead to sizable risk of norovirus infection in ESWs if personal protective equipment and disinfection are not used appropriately. ESWs can also transfer virus to secondary surfaces, initiating further infections. Interventions are needed to reduce fomite transfer of norovirus, and protect patients and staff from nosocomial infections.
Clinical outcomes and cost of robotic ventral hernia repair: systematic review.

Background Robotic ventral hernia repair (VHR) has seen rapid adoption, but with limited data assessing clinical outcome or cost. This systematic review compared robotic VHR with laparoscopic and open approaches. Methods This systematic review was undertaken in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane databases were searched for articles with terms relating to 'robot-assisted', 'cost effectiveness', and 'ventral hernia' or 'incisional hernia' from 1 January 2010 to 10 November 2020. Intraoperative and postoperative outcomes, pain, recurrence, and cost data were extracted for narrative analysis. Results Of 25 studies that met the inclusion criteria, three were RCTs and 22 observational studies. Robotic VHR was associated with a longer duration of operation than open and laparoscopic repairs, but with fewer transfusions, shorter hospital stay, and lower complication rates than open repair. Robotic VHR was more expensive than laparoscopic repair, but not significantly different from open surgery in terms of cost. There were no significant differences in rates of intraoperative complication, conversion to open surgery, surgical-site infection, readmission, mortality, pain, or recurrence between the three approaches. Conclusion Robotic VHR was associated with a longer duration of operation, fewer transfusions, a shorter hospital stay, and fewer complications compared with open surgery. Robotic VHR had higher costs and a longer operating time than laparoscopic repair. Randomized or matched data with standardized reporting, long-term outcomes, and cost-effectiveness analyses are still required to weigh the clinical benefits against the cost of robotic VHR.
Fitness Landscapes for Effects of Shape on Chemotaxis and Other Behaviors of Bacteria

Data on the shapes of 218 genera of free-floating or free-swimming bacteria reveal groupings around spherical shapes and around rod-like shapes of axial ratio about 3. Motile genera are less likely to be spherical and have larger axial ratios than nonmotile genera. The effects of shape on seven possible components of biological fitness were determined, and actual fitness landscapes in phenotype space are presented. Ellipsoidal shapes were used as models, since their hydrodynamic drag coefficients can be rigorously calculated in the world of low Reynolds number, where bacteria live. Comparing various shapes of the same volume, and assuming that departures from spherical have a cost that varies with the minimum radius of curvature, led to the following conclusions. Spherical shapes have the largest random dispersal by Brownian motion. Increased surface area occurs in oblate ellipsoids (disk-like), which rarely occur. Elongation into prolate ellipsoids (rod-like) reduces sinking speed, and this may explain why some nonmotile genera are rod-like. Elongation also favors swimming efficiency (to a limited extent) and the ability to detect stimulus gradients by any of three mechanisms. By far the largest effect (several hundred-fold) is on temporal detection of stimulus gradients, and this explains why rod-like shapes and this mechanism of chemotaxis are common.
Female Police Officers' Job-Related Attitudes

Abstract Although there has been a growing interest recently in the role of women in policing, very few empirical studies have examined female officers' job-related attitudes from a cross-cultural perspective. Using interview and survey data collected from two Taiwanese and two American police departments, this research assesses Taiwanese and American female officers' attitudes toward co-workers, promotion, and citizens. The findings show that Taiwanese female officers are more likely than their American counterparts to have friends in work units but less willing to share information with co-workers. Taiwanese women police are also found to be more likely than American women police to consider promotion an important issue in their career. Taiwanese officers are more critical of citizens than American officers. Limitations of this study and implications for future research are discussed.