cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Role of Risk in Explaining Differences in Profitability

This study examined the role of risk in explaining cross-sectional differences in the profitability of business units. Applying suggestions of financial theory, we disaggregated risk into two components-systematic and unsystematic-that are thought to have different effects on return. Drawing on the PIMS data base, we found each component of risk to have a substantial, significant, and different impact on return on investment (ROI). The research and strategy implications of the roles of risk are discussed. The two key factors in any investment decision are return and risk. Under the assumption that investors are risk-averse and seek to minimize the risk for any level of expected return, intuition suggests that additional return must compensate investors for assuming additional risk. Scholars in finance and other disciplines have devoted a great deal of work to refining and formalizing this intuition. This same logic applies in the context of strategy, as Wensley (1981), Bettis and Mahajan (1985), and others have observed. A strategic investment decision should explicitly consider risk-decision makers should demand a higher return for an investment involving high risk. Yet, in typical practice, strategic investment decisions are adjusted for risk ad hoc, if at all. Firms typically set relatively high hurdle rates in making go/no go investment decisions and apply these rates to all investments, regardless of their riskiness (Hayes & Gavin, 1982). Further, historical evaluation of existing strategies, whether it concerns evaluating present management or attempting to place values on businesses to be divested or acquired, focuses almost exclusively on return and rarely attempts to quantify risk. These failures to account for risk adequately will unquestionably lead to inappropriate decisions. All else being equal, if firms judge business performance only in terms of return, regardless of risk, they will place more resources than warranted in risky strategies, forgo profitable opportunities, and apply misguided performance evaluations. Further, if researchers do not control for risk in studies assessing the effects of strategic factors on We would like to thank the Strategic Planning Institute for providing access to the data used in this study.
Coupling of the Perturbed C–N–P Cycles in Industrial Time

Coupling of the C–N–P biogeochemical cycles is effected by the dependence of the land and aquatic primary producers on the availability of N and P. In general, the Redfield ratios C:P and N:P in the reservoirs supplying nutrients for primary production on land, in the oceanic coastal zone, and in the surface ocean differ from these ratios in the land phytomass and aquatic plankton. When N:P in the source is higher than in primary producers, this results in a potential accumulation of some excess nitrogen in soil water and coastal water, and increased denitrification flux to the atmosphere. The oceanic coastal zone plays an important role in the coupled C–N–P cycles and their dynamics because of its intermediate position between the land and oceanic reservoirs. These coupled cycles were analyzed for the last 300 years of exposure to four human-generated forcings (fossil fuel emissions, land use change, chemical fertilization of land, and sewage discharge to the coastal zone) and global temperature rise. In the period from 1700 to 2000, there has been a net loss of C, N, and P primarily from the land phytomass and soil humus, despite the rise in atmospheric CO2, increased recycling of nutrients from humus, chemical fertilization, and re-growth of forests on previously disturbed land. The main mechanisms responsible for the net loss were increased riverine transport to the coastal zone of dissolved and particulate materials and, for N, increased denitrification on land. The oceanic coastal zone gained N and P, resulting in their accumulation in the organic pool of living biomass and dissolved and reactive particulates, as well as in their accumulation in coastal sediments from land-derived and in situ produced organic matter. Pronounced shifts in the rates and directions of change in some of the major land reservoirs occurred near the mid-1900s. Denitrification removes N from the pool available for primary production. It is the strongest on land, accounting for 73–83% of N removal from land by the combined mechanisms of denitrification and riverine export.
Confirmation of progression on poliomyelitis-free in Shanghai in year 2004

[Objective] To evaluate the current situation of sustaining polio-free and stabilize the achievement of polio-free in Shanghai. [Methods] The latest data reported by AFP surveillance system and routine immunization reporting system of the whole city was analyzed with EPI info software. [Results] In 2004,21 acute flaccid paralysis(AFP) cases were reported in Shanghai.The reported incidence of non-polio AFP cases was 1.04 per 100,000 children under 15 years of age,the collection rate of adequate stool specimens was 90.48%,and other surveillant indexes all reached the standards of WHO and Ministry of Health.Two rounds of OPV coverages were both above 83%.The unreported rate of AFP cases was 1.19%.The polio pathogeny surveillance was conducted continuously and none wild polioviruses was isolated. [Conclusion] In order to sustain polio-free status,it is necessary to keep the sensitive AFP surveillance system,and keep high quality routine and supplementary immunization activities.
Study on the improvement of drinking water and changing trends in prevalence of water-borne infectious disease in the Fifth Division of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps

Objective To analyze the quality of drinking water and the changing trends in prevalence of water-borne infectious diseases in the Fifth Division of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps between 1991 to 2013.Methods The basic information on drinking water was collected through questionnaires.The drinking water was tested against drinking water standards GB5750-85 and GB / T5750-2006 and evaluated according to drinking water health standard GB / T 5749-2006.Results In 2013,92.22% of the drinking water quality reached the grade I standard,and 99.66% of the residents benefited from the water improvement.The incidence of waterborne intestinal infectious diseases dropped to 44.12 / 100 000.The drinking water quality improved year after year(χ2= 241.58,P = 0.00).There was an inverse correlation between the percentage of the population benefiting from water improvement and the incidence of waterborne intestinal infectious diseases(r =-0.9578,P 0.01).Conclusion Through water improvement projects,the quality of drinking water was improved and the prevalence of waterborne infectious diseases was controlled effectively.
Block of intercellular communication: interaction of intracellular H+ and Ca2+

The influence of elevated intracellular levels of H+ and Ca2+ on intercellular communication between cultured neonatal rat myocardial cells was examined by quantifying the percent of primary neighboring cells to which intracellularly injected Lucifer yellow had spread within 10 s of injection. Partial acidosis was induced by incubation in and then removal of NH4Cl. Intracellular Ca2+ was raised through the use of treatments that are standard in studies of heart muscle: reduction of the Na+ gradient, addition of caffeine, and combinations of these interventions. Under control conditions and during application of NH4Cl, cells exhibited spontaneous electrical and contractile activity and were well coupled (dye detectable in 100% of primary neighbors). Sustained intracellular acidosis without simultaneous elevation of intracellular Ca2+ (NH4Cl exposure followed by zero Na+, zero Ca2+) reduced the incidence of dye transfer to 90%. Elevation of intracellular Ca2+ (exposure to zero Na+, Ca2+-containing solution, with or without 10 mM caffeine) had no effect on coupling. These same interventions, when employed together, reduced the incidence of dye coupling to 18%. The results are consistent with a synergism of action of Ca2+ and H+ in the regulation of junctional permeability.
PRMT5 Methyltransferase Activity Is Required to Sustain Adult Hematopoiesis

Abstract Epigenetic regulators have been shown to play critical roles in normal hematopoiesis, and their activity is frequently altered in hematopoietic cancers. Protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5) is the major type II PRMTs, catalyzing the symmetric di-methylation of arginine residues in histones (H2A, H3 and H4) and non-histone proteins. PRMT5 is over-expressed in several cancers, including acute leukemia and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. To define the role of PRMT5 in normal adult hematopoiesis, we generated PRMT5 conditional knockout mice using Mx1-cre. The induced deletion of both alleles of PRMT5 leads to severe pancytopenia and bone marrow aplasia with subsequent lethality in two weeks. First, loss of PRMT5 triggers the impaired proliferation and rapid disappearance of progenitor cells. At the same time, PRMT5 deficient HSCs show increased cell cycling and a transient HSC accumulation, which is rapidly followed by stem cell exhaustion. Mechanistically, we show that deletion of PRMT5 severely impairs cytokine signaling. It also up-regulates p53 protein level and the expression of p53 target genes. These effects likely account for the critical role of PRMT5 in HSPCs. We have conducted many additional experiments to show that these effects of PRMT5 deletion on hematopoiesis are cell autonomous; and also that the methyltransferase activity of PRMT5 is required to sustain normal hematopoiesis. Thus, we identify PRMT5 as a critical regulator of normal hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell biology. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Lydia Maria Child

Child’s published letter reviewed the causes of the split within the antislavery movement and asserted her own moderate but firm position on women’s rights.
Acrolein Can Cause Cardiovascular Disease: A Review

Acrolein is a highly reactive unsaturated aldehyde that is formed during the burning of gasoline and diesel fuels, cigarettes, woods and plastics. In addition, acrolein is generated during the cooking or frying of food with fats or oils. Acrolein is also used in the synthesis of many organic chemicals and as a biocide in agricultural and industrial water supply systems. The total emissions of acrolein in the United States from all sources are estimated to be 62,660 tons/year. Acrolein is classified by the Environmental Protection Agency as a high-priority air and water toxicant. Acrolein can exert toxic effects following inhalation, ingestion, and dermal exposures that are dose dependent. Cardiovascular tissues are particularly sensitive to the toxic effects of acrolein based primarily on in vitro and in vivo studies. Acrolein can generate free oxygen radical stress in the heart, decrease endothelial nitric oxide synthase phosphorylation and nitric oxide formation, form cytoplasmic and nuclear protein adducts with myocyte and vascular endothelial cell proteins and cause vasospasm. In this manner, chronic exposure to acrolein can cause myocyte dysfunction, myocyte necrosis and apoptosis and ultimately lead to cardiomyopathy and cardiac failure. Epidemiological studies of acrolein exposure and toxicity should be developed and treatment strategies devised that prevent or significantly limit acrolein cardiovascular toxicity.
Elimination of Plasmon Losses and Enhanced Light Extraction of Top-Emitting Organic Light-Emitting Devices Using a Reflective Subelectrode Grid

We demonstrate high-efficiency light extraction for top-emitting organic light-emitting devices (OLEDs) comprising a transparent conductive oxide on the surface of a nondiffractive, reflecting metal-coated scattering grid located beneath the organic active region. The grid scatters light trapped in waveguide modes without changing the device electrical properties or causing significant plasmonic losses. This results in an increase in external quantum efficiency for green phosphorescent organic light-emitting devices from 20 ± 1% to 30 ± 2%, for structures without and with the reflecting grid. Adding a low refractive index capping layer reduces the spectral angular dependence characteristic of top-emitting OLEDs. The improvement in light extraction by substrate modification allows for optimization of the optical design without necessitating changes in the design or structure of the OLEDs themselves.
Mid-Treatment Sleep Duration Predicts Clinically Significant Knee Osteoarthritis Pain reduction at 6 months: Effects From a Behavioral Sleep Medicine Clinical Trial.

Study objectives To determine the relative influence of sleep continuity (sleep efficiency, sleep onset latency, total sleep time [TST], and wake after sleep onset) on clinical pain outcomes within a trial of cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) for patients with comorbid knee osteoarthritis and insomnia. Methods Secondary analyses were performed on data from 74 patients with comorbid insomnia and knee osteoarthritis who completed a randomized clinical trial of 8-session multicomponent CBT-I versus an active behavioral desensitization control condition (BD), including a 6-month follow-up assessment. Data used herein include daily diaries of sleep parameters, actigraphy data, and self-report questionnaires administered at specific time points. Results Patients who reported at least 30% improvement in self-reported pain from baseline to 6-month follow-up were considered responders (N = 31). Pain responders and nonresponders did not differ significantly at baseline across any sleep continuity measures. At mid-treatment, only TST predicted pain response via t tests and logistic regression, whereas other measures of sleep continuity were nonsignificant. Recursive partitioning analyses identified a minimum cut-point of 382 min of TST achieved at mid-treatment in order to best predict pain improvements 6-month posttreatment. Actigraphy results followed the same pattern as daily diary-based results. Conclusions Clinically significant pain reductions in response to both CBT-I and BD were optimally predicted by achieving approximately 6.5 hr sleep duration by mid-treatment. Thus, tailoring interventions to increase TST early in treatment may be an effective strategy to promote long-term pain reductions. More comprehensive research on components of behavioral sleep medicine treatments that contribute to pain response is warranted.
Labor Unions, Political Representation, and Economic Inequality

Decades of research across several disciplines have produced substantial evidence that labor unions, on balance, reduce economic disparities. But unions are complicated, multifaceted organizations straddling markets and politics. Much of their equality-promoting influence occurs through their ability to reduce class-based inequity in politics and public policy. Declining unionization across much of the developed world is eroding workers’ bargaining power. Reduced economic leverage puts pressure on union solidarity and weakens labor-based political movements. Important research design problems and significant heterogeneity across unions, regions, countries, and time imply a continued need for more work.
Average Treatment Effect of School-Wide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports on School-Level Academic Achievement in Florida:

The relationship between school-wide positive behavioral interventions and supports (SWPBIS) and school-level academic achievement has not been established. Most experimental research has found lit...
Visualizing Self-Tracked Mobile Sensor and Self-Reflection Data to Help Sleep Clinicians Infer Patterns

We present results from a design study of two novel visualization methods for self-tracked sleep data. These methods combine multivariate time series data and ordinal self-reflection data to help sleep clinicians analyze factors related to sleep quality such as noise and movement and make recommendations to improve sleep quality. We conducted an iterative design process, driven by our collaborator's domain specific goals in analyzing self-tracked sleep data. The final visualizations feature a unique spiral clock radial design and interactive controls for ordinal data. We ran a survey with three sleep clinicians to assess the effectiveness of each visualization type. In our user study a sleep clinician also performed a mock in-patient session, which demonstrated their effectiveness in a clinical setting. The new visualizations prove more effective in achieving the domain specific goals of sleep clinicians in comparison to previous efforts from similar work.
Sensitivity of inorganic aerosol radiative effects to U.S. emissions

Between 2005 and 2012, US emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and sulfur dioxide (SO2) decreased by 42% and 62%, respectively. These species, as well as ammonia (NH3), are precursors of inorganic fine aerosols, which scatter incoming shortwave radiation and thus affect climate. Scaling aerosol concentrations to emissions, as might be done for near-term climate projections, neglects nonlinear chemical interactions. To estimate the magnitude of these nonlinearities, we conduct a suite of simulations with a chemical transport model and an off-line radiative transfer model. We find that the direct radiative effect (DRE) over the North American domain decreases by 59 and 160 mW m−2 in winter and summer, respectively, between 2005 and 2012. The sensitivities of DRE to NOx and SO2 emissions increase, by 11% and 21% in summer, while sensitivity to NH3 emissions decreases. The wintertime sensitivity of DRE to NOx emissions is small in 2005 but is 5 times as large in 2012. Scaling radiative effects from 2005 to 2012 based on 2005 sensitivities overestimates the magnitude of the DRE of 7% and 6% of the US-attributable DRE in January and July, respectively. The difference between the changes in DRE and the changes in sensitivity suggests that scaling to SO2 emissions alone has so far been an accurate approximation but it may not be in the near future. These values represent the level of accuracy that can be expected in adjusting aerosol radiative effects in climate models without chemistry.
High-level Enactive and Embodied Cognition in Expert Sport Performance

Abstract Mental representation has long been central to standard accounts of action and cognition generally, and in the context of sport. We argue for an enactive and embodied account that rejects the idea that representation is necessary for cognition, and posit instead that cognition arises, or is enacted, in certain types of interactions between organisms and their environment. More specifically, we argue that enactive theories explain some kinds of high-level cognition, those that underlie some of the best performances in sport and similar practices (dance, martial arts), better than representational accounts. Flow and mushin (mindfully fluid awareness) are explained enactively to this end. This results in a mutually beneficial analysis where enactivism offers theoretical and practical advantages as an explanation of high performance in sports, while the latter validates enactivism.
Teaching UX design

UX Design (or User Experience design) is becoming the industry standard method of ensuring that applications provide good experiences for their intended audiences. According to Stuart MacDougall, "While some buzzwords and online trends will come and go, the art of user experience may evolve; but with an increase in online content, expansion of websites and increasing expectations of your users, it will only become more important" [1].
Candida auris: An emerging multidrug-resistant pathogen.

Abstract Candida auris is an emerging multidrug-resistant pathogen that can be difficult to identify using traditional biochemical methods. C. auris is capable of causing invasive fungal infections, particularly among hospitalized patients with significant medical comorbidities. Echinocandins are the empiric drugs of choice for C. auris , although not all isolates are susceptible and resistance may develop on therapy. Nosocomial C. auris outbreaks have been reported in a number of countries and aggressive infection control measures are paramount to stopping transmission.
Acute management of high-energy lisfranc injuries: A simple approach.

Abstract Introduction The aims of this study were to (1) describe the use of the K-wire for the initial management of high-energy Lisfranc dislocations or fracture dislocations, (2) to evaluate whether this standalone technique allowed for adequate reduction of these injuries, (3) to evaluate whether reductions were maintained until definitive fixation was performed, (4) and to determine if it contributed to any increase in complications prior to or after definitive fixation. Patients and methods A retrospective review was performed on all patients who presented with tarsometatarsal injuries from January 2005 through June 2015. Dislocations of the tarso-metatarsal joints were classified as either Type A (total incongruity, homolateral complex), Type B (partial incongruity, homolateral incomplete) or Type C (divergent, total or partial displacement) patterns, with or without associated fractures. For the purposes of this paper, high-energy injuries were defined as patients presenting with either a Type A or Type C (total displacement) dislocations or fracture-dislocation patterns. A total of 176 patients presented with a tarsometatarsal injury. Eighteen patients with divergent or homolateral patterns underwent a staged approach. Fifteen patients were managed exclusively with K-wire fixation. Wound complications, infections or the unexpected need to return to surgery were recorded. Results All patients demonstrated an improved alignment using K-wires. There were no compartment syndromes, vascular insufficiency, complications to the skin associated with traction or manipulation, or pin site infections. At definitive fixation, no patient demonstrated a loss in the alignment that had been obtained at the index procedure or had an unexpected return to surgery. Discussion and conclusions This study demonstrates that high-energy Lisfranc injuries are uncommon and that K-wires are a simple and adequate technique that can be used for initial staged approach of these injuries. The use of 2.0 mm K-wires were sufficient to obtain and maintain the reduction until definitive fixation has been obtained, without producing any increase risk for complications.
Knowledge management and the entrepreneur: Insights from Ikujiro Nonaka's Dynamic Knowledge Creation model (SECI)

Abstract A key goal of knowledge management (KM) is to foster innovation through the creation of new knowledge. Surprisingly, there is little research on KM in the context of entrepreneurship, a domain where innovation is considered essential. This paper extends established theories and frameworks for KM to the understudied context of KM in small and medium entrepreneurial firms, particularly young startups. Translating KM frameworks, such as the widely studied SECI model, into the entrepreneurial domain could eventually help startups in their quest for sustainability and growth. The SECI model is an aspirational process with which to build new knowledge, including the explicit knowledge assets that startups commonly lack. However, an aspiration is only useful if the subject knows where he or she stands in relation to it. This study focuses on understanding whether entrepreneurial activities embed into, and can further enable, the “virtuous” knowledge-creation cycle. The secondary objective of this paper is to acknowledge Ikujiro Nonaka's contribution to western and eastern KM theories, and extend his seminal theories into other domains, such as small and medium enterprises. This work pilots the use of a content analysis technique largely used in psychology to analyze the connection between entrepreneurship and KM. With this method, the study highlights how the four phases of the SECI model apply to startup firms in a business incubator in the United States. It provides insights into the knowledge-creation process of entrepreneurs, and suggests how entrepreneurs can improve startup survival through greater awareness and use of KM in their business planning and operational activities.
Topographic Analysis of the Distal Femoral Condyle Articular Cartilage Surface: Adequacy of the Graft from Opposite Condyles of the Same or Different Size for the Osteochondral Allograft Transplantation:

ObjectiveTo analyze the topography of the opposite condyle to treat focal femoral condyle articular defects with an osteochondral allograft (OCA).DesignThree groups were created: Group 1, same cond...
Low-loss silicon nitride integrated optical beamforming network for wideband communication

Integrated optical beamforming networks (OBFNs) are critical for photonics-assisted wideband microwave phased array antennas. Here, a 1x4 integrated OBFN based on low loss silicon nitride waveguide technology was demonstrated for millimeter wave (mmW) communications. Three cascaded optical ring resonators serve as tunable true time delays (TTDs) for each channel, which overcomes the beam squint issue associated with wideband communication. The tuning of rings was carefully calibrated using the lossless ring delay response theoretical model, and experiments were performed verifying the tuning accuracy. Theoretical simulations were performed to optimize the delay response of the OBFN using a genetic algorithm, which revealed tradeoffs among the delay response flatness, absolute delay value, and TTD bandwidth. Two topologies of the OBFN were theoretically and experimentally compared. A lookup table of the optimized ring parameters was generated, based on which single-delay channels with dynamic tuning ranges of 208.7 ps and 172.4 ps for TTD bandwidths of 6.3 GHz and 8.7 GHz were achieved, which correspond to phase shifts of 37.5π and 31π for a 90-GHz signal, respectively. Moreover, all four channels were tuned to a delay distribution with a differential delay around 4.2 ps, which is equivalent to a 49° beamsteering angle for a 90 GHz half-wavelength dipole antenna array. Using heterodyne upconversion and a single delay path, a 41 GHz mmW signal with 3-Gbps NRZ OOK data modulation was generated and delayed. Future work will focus on higher frequencies into the W-band and on beamsteering experiments.
Chapter 17 – Applications of Thermodynamics to Nonelectrolyte Solutions

Solutions are involved in many chemical processes that require mathematical tools for a comfortable working, and thermodynamics provides many of these tools. Thermodynamic properties, such as the chemical potential, partial molar properties, fugacities, and activities, provide the keys to unlock the description of mixtures. Solutions are usually classified as “nonelectrolyte” or “electrolyte,” depending upon whether one or more of the components dissociates in the mixture. The two types of solutions are often treated differently. In electrolyte solutions, properties such as the activity coefficients and the osmotic coefficients are emphasized, with the selection of dilute solution standard state for the solute. With nonelectrolyte solutions, Raoult's law standard state is selected for both components. This chapter focuses on nonelectrolyte mixtures and uses changes in the thermodynamic properties with mixing to help understand the nature of the interactions that occur in a mixture.
Spintronics of nanostructured manganese germanium (MnGe) dilute magnetic semiconductor

Abstract: With the apparent limit of scaling on CMOS microelectronics fast approaching, spintronics has received enormous attention as it promises next-generation nanometric magnetoelectronic devices; particularly, the electric field control of the ferromagnetic transition in dilute magnetic semiconductor (DMS) systems offers magnetoelectronic devices a potential for low power consumption and low variability. Special attention has been given to technologically important group IV semiconductor based magnetic materials, with a prominent position for MnGe. Since the first claim of the realization of a MnGe DMS, tremendous efforts have been concentrated on enhancing the Curie temperature and on interpreting the observed ferromagnetism in terms of DMS theories. In this chapter, we will first review the current theoretical understanding on ferromagnetism in MnGe DMS, pointing out the possible physics models underlying the complicated ferromagnetic behavior of MnGe. Then we carry out detailed analysis of MnGe thin films grown by molecular beam epitaxy. We show that with zero- and one-dimensional quantum structures, superior magnetic properties of MnGe compared with bulk films can be obtained. More importantly, with MnGe nanostructures, such as quantum dots, we demonstrate a field-controlled ferromagnetism up to 100 K. The controllability of ferromagnetism in this material system presents a major step towards Ge based spintronic devices working at ambient temperatures.
What Are 3′ UTRs Doing?

3' untranslated regions (3' UTRs) of messenger RNAs (mRNAs) are best known to regulate mRNA-based processes, such as mRNA localization, mRNA stability, and translation. In addition, 3' UTRs can establish 3' UTR-mediated protein-protein interactions (PPIs), and thus can transmit genetic information encoded in 3' UTRs to proteins. This function has been shown to regulate diverse protein features, including protein complex formation or posttranslational modifications, but is also expected to alter protein conformations. Therefore, 3' UTR-mediated information transfer can regulate protein features that are not encoded in the amino acid sequence. This review summarizes both 3' UTR functions-the regulation of mRNA and protein-based processes-and highlights how each 3' UTR function was discovered with a focus on experimental approaches used and the concepts that were learned. This review also discusses novel approaches to study 3' UTR functions in the future by taking advantage of recent advances in technology.
RTP-Assisted Ex-Situ Analysis of (Ag,Cu)(In,Ga)Se 2 Formation using Selenization

The addition of Ag to Cu-Ga-In precursors for reaction to form (AgCu)(InGa)Se2 (ACIGS) has shown benefits including improved adhesion, greater process tolerance and potential for improved device performance. In this study, metal precursors were sputtered with Ag/(Ag+Cu) ≈ 0.25, 0.75, 1.00 and Ga/(Ga+In)≈ 0.25. Chemical pathways of formation of the ACIGS were studied by rapid thermal processing assisted ex-situ time-progressive experiments at 450°C under 5% Ar/H 2 Se atmosphere. The reaction time was varied from 2–45 min. Composition and structure were characterized by energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS), x-ray fluorescence (XRF), x-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy. Reaction pathways analysis for low Ag/(Ag+Cu) ≈ 25% indicate that multiple stable intermetallic phases were formed during the reaction including k-(Cu,Ga) 2 (Ag,In), $\zeta$ -(Ag,Cu)3(In,Ga) and CU 9 (In,Ga) 4 ; and the reaction to form ACIGS was complete after 10 min. However XRD analysis showed that Ag tends to stay in the stable $\zeta$ -(Ag,Cu) 3 (In,Ga) phase during the reaction at higher Ag/(Ag+Cu) ≈ 75% and 100% and this causes the longer reaction time and the non-uniformity. With Ag ratio =100%, the reaction was completed with formation of Ag(In,Ga)Se 2 and AgIn 5 Se 8 within 20 min.
Testing the Readability of Online Content on Autism Spectrum Disorders

The incidence of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in children has been increasing steadily in the USA. The material that is available online is not always reader-friendly and may leave readers unclear on their questions. Considering the prevalence of ASD in the USA and the general population’s limited reading abilities, the purpose of this study was to discern the degree to which articles posted online are readable at the recommended grade level. A search was conducted with the key words “Autism Spectrum Disorder.” The first 100 websites that met this criterion were included in the analyses. Along with the readability tests, the websites’ extensions were recorded. The URLs were input into an automatic readability score generator. Several readability tests were performed: Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level (FKGL), Gunning Fog Index (GFI), Coleman-Liau Index (CLI), Simple Measure of Gobbledygook (SMOG) Grade Level, and Flesch-Kincaid Reading Ease (FRE). Group 1 (websites with extensions .org, .gov, .edu) had better readability scores compared to Group 2 (.com, .net, or other: .ca, .int, .uk, .us) for six of the nine tests, suggesting that websites with URL extensions .org, .gov, and .edu are easier to read compared to others (.com, .net, etc.). Overall, the results indicated that the readability level of the information online on ASD is substantially higher than recommended. Simpler writing would permit a larger part of the general population to access useful information, thereby increasing the potential to help with early identification of young children with ASD and help families.
Thinking Beyond Imitation: Mixed-style Pottery in Ancient Western Sicily

This study explores the manufacture, use, and archaeological classification of ceramic commensal vessels from western Sicily dating from the late Iron Age and Archaic periods (approximately 900-600 BC), addressing the stylistic transformation of pottery manufactured by indigenous Sicilians following social contact, interaction, and entanglement with foreigners. Potters blended various styles of form and decoration to manufacture ceramic vessels which continue to challenge theoretical frameworks that attempt to classify and interpret them. Previous studies have utilized models of material imitation and emulation, yet have seldom explored the social significance of their production and use. More recent studies break from these predecessors, applying post-colonial perspectives to evaluate critically and contextualize these products of social entanglement. Unfortunately, many of these interpretations fail to distinguish between material and behavioral classifications, inadequately employing theories of social behavior to characterize material culture. Here, the distinction between material and behavioral classification is emphasized, differentiating between physical styles and the social behaviors associated with the production, use, and discard of objects. The concept of mixed-style artifacts is presented as an alternative to previous classificatory models, distinguishing and parsing between material and behavioral classifications to contextualize and understand these artifacts. Using this approach, mixed-style Sicilian pottery can be classified more objectively, divorcing such classifications from subjective biases. Consequently, such pottery appears to be a product of local potters who, operating as communities of practice, incorporated elements of foreign style alongside indigenous ones, creating a material manifestation of the social middle ground. In this way, the mixedstyle concept varies from strict imitation as it more accurately accounts for the selective incorporation of particular styles to synthesize something new, albeit familiar.
Safety and feasibility of skin-to-skin care for surgical infants: A quality improvement project

Abstract Background Skin-to-skin care (SSC) for infants improves physiologic stability, pain perception, brain development, parental bonding, and overall survival. Using quality improvement (QI) methodology, this project aimed to increase SSC for surgical infants in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Methods A multidisciplinary working group composed of key NICU stakeholders instituted a needs assessment querying perceptions and concerns about SSC. Based on survey results, multiple system level interventions were implemented. Data for surgical infants receiving SSC during hospitalization were tracked over time using the electronic health record. Results Overall, 315 infants requiring a surgical consult were admitted to the NICU in the first 12 months of the project. After six months, SSC rates in this group increased from 51% to 60.5% (p Conclusions Using QI methodology and multidisciplinary engagement, SSC was integrated safely into the routine care of surgical infants in the NICU. Level of evidence Level V.
Frequency comb-based multidimensional coherent spectroscopy

We present a novel approach to multidimensional coherent spectroscopy that utilizes optical frequency combs. This approach enables the measurement of a multidimensional coherent spectrum rapidly and with unprecedented frequency resolution. To demonstrate the improvements in resolution and data acquisition speed we apply this method to Doppler broadened Rb atoms whose energy level splittings are of the order of hundreds of MHz and measure a rephasing 2D spectrum. We also show how this method can probe and give insight about extremely weak dipole-dipole interactions in an atomic vapor. This novel method has the potential to become a field deployable device for chemical sensing applications.
P-63 OACC one year on

Background The Outcome Assessment Complexity Collaborative (OACC) is a validated suite of outcome measures that is aimed to measure, demonstrate and improve patients’ and caregivers’ outcomes. Following the initial phase of its implementation at Saint Francis Hospice utilising Kotter (2007) eight step model of change, the established Steering Group continues to sustain and institute change, with a focus on providing effective leadership to oversee the embedding and anchoring of the measures within all clinical services. Aim To embed and anchor the OACC Suite of Outcome Measures within all clinical services at Saint Francis Hospice. Method The project lead from each service provides support and any problems identified are reported to and addressed by the Steering Group. Compliance has been monitored through audit. Relevant policies, standards of practice and assessment documentation have been reviewed and revised. Training is incorporated within the clinical induction programme for new staff. Constant feedback from clinical staff and updates on IT reporting developments continue to be sought, recorded and brought to the Steering Group. Results Some challenges have been identified relating to IT reporting, one measure has required review to ensure it fits and supports the demand of the workload within a team and compliance with the timing of the use of the measures is also under review for another individual team. All clinical teams are incorporating the use of OACC within their practice and this is leading to a transformational change in both the delivery of service for individual teams and for the organisation as a whole. Conclusion By displaying effective leadership, supporting review and development of processes and reinforcing change, OACC is being successfully used at Saint Francis Hospice and is playing a crucial role in further improving the quality, efficiency and availability of palliative care for our service users.
The Balance between Open and Robotic Training among Graduating Urology Residents—Does Surgical Technique Need Monitoring?

Purpose:A minimum number of index procedures is required for graduation. Without thresholds for surgical technique, it is unclear if robotic and open learning is balanced. We assessed the distribut...
The Blessings of Multiple Causes: Rejoinder

We thank all the discussants for taking the time and energy to build on this work; and we thank the editors for putting together an engaging and thought-provoking collection of discussions. After r...
Assessment of Microvascular Function in Children and Adolescents with Diabetes and Obesity.

Background: Endothelial dysfunction (ED) is a marker of vascular damage. Glycated hemoglobin (A1C) predicts vascular complications. The EndoPAT (peripheral arterial tonometry) device calculates the reactive hyperemic index (RHI), a measure of endothelial function. The greater the vasodilation, the higher the RHI. We hypothesized that children with poorly-controlled diabetes mellitus (DM) and non-diabetes mellitus (NDM) obese children have ED. Methods: A cross-sectional study using the EndoPAT device was performed on children with poorly-controlled DM and NDM children. ANOVA, t-test, Mann-Whitney U test, multiple linear regression and Spearman correlation were used. Results: Of 58 children that completed the study (aged 13.1 ± 3.42 years), 33 with type 1 diabetes (T1DM), 8 with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and 17 were NDM obese children. Eighty-five percent were African-American, 60% were female and 79% entered puberty. The RHI of children with DM (1.42 ± 0.48) versus NDM obese group (1.40 ± 0.34) was not different (P = 0.86) regardless of the type of DM or body mass index. In the DM group, for every 1% increase in latest A1C, the RHI decreased by 0.097 (P = 0.01) after adjusting for age, gender, and type of DM. The RHI of DM patients with latest A1C of < 10% (1.70 ± 0.58) versus those with A1C ≥10% (1.21 ± 0.19) was statistically different (P = 0.02). In the total study population, males had significantly lower RHI (1.28 ± 0.36) when compared to females (1.51 ± 0.46), P = 0.04 but this difference disappeared when considering pubertal status and type of diabetes. Conclusions: Our data showed that patients with poorly-controlled DM as reflected by latest A1C of ≥ 10% had worse endothelial function as reflected by lower RHI score.
The Impact of Rent from Unequal Exchange on Shaikh’s Classical-Keynesian Political Economic Analysis: The Example of Facebook:

In this paper, Shaikh’s 1949–2011 classical Phillips curve (CPC) is replicated and extended to 2016. This updated CPC does not follow the pattern anticipated by Shaikh for the years 2012 to 2016. T...
MannequinChallenge: Learning the Depths of Moving People by Watching Frozen People

We present a method for predicting dense depth in scenarios where both a monocular camera and people in the scene are freely moving (right). Existing methods for recovering depth for dynamic, non-rigid objects from monocular video impose strong assumptions on the objects’ motion and may only recover sparse depth. In this paper, we take a data-driven approach and learn human depth priors from a new source of data: thousands of Internet videos of people imitating mannequins, i.e., freezing in diverse, natural poses, while a hand-held camera tours the scene (left). Because people are stationary, geometric constraints hold, thus training data can be generated using multi-view stereo reconstruction. At inference time, our method uses motion parallax cues from the static areas of the scenes to guide the depth prediction. We evaluate our method on real-world sequences of complex human actions captured by a moving hand-held camera, show improvement over state-of-the-art monocular depth prediction methods, and demonstrate various 3D effects produced using our predicted depth.
The Role of Cardiovascular Imaging and Serum Biomarkers in Identifying Cardiotoxicity Related to Cancer Therapeutics

Innovations and discoveries in cancer therapeutics have improved survival rates in patients with various types of malignancies. At the same time, physicians are identifying an increased number of patients with treatment-related cardiotoxicity. It is imperative that physicians recognize early treatment-related adverse effects to determine the safest therapeutic options for patients with cancer. This manuscript evaluates the role of cardiovascular imaging and biomarkers in identifying cardiotoxicity trigged by various chemotherapeutic agents and summarizes expert consensus statements regarding cardiotoxicity monitoring.
Effects of emulsion types, application rates, and crumb rubber on the laboratory performance of chip seal

Abstract Chip sealing is a commonly used pavement maintenance method that aims to delay pavement deterioration by reducing water infiltration and restoring skid resistance. Loss of aggregate and bleeding are considered the major failure mechanisms in chip seal, and therefore, are the main design criteria for this treatment method. The objective of this study was to evaluate the laboratory performance of chip seals prepared with different types of asphalt emulsions, application rates, and aggregate blends. A newly introduced crumb rubber modified asphalt emulsion was evaluated that allows chip seal installation at the same temperature of a standard emulsion. Types of emulsion included a crumb-rubber modified asphalt emulsion (CRS-2TR), an asphalt rubber (AC20-TR), a polymer-modified emulsion (CRS-2P), and a conventional unmodified emulsion (CRS-2). Application rates were selected based on the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LaDOTD) and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) specifications as well as from the chip seal design method recommended in NCHRP Report 680. A 90-10 aggregate blend of lightweight aggregate (LWA) and rubber aggregate (RA) was also investigated. The loss of aggregate was measured using two laboratory performance tests: the sweep test (ASTM D 7000) and the Pennsylvania Aggregate Retention Test (PART). The strength of adhesion of the four emulsions was also evaluated using the Bitumen Bond Strength (BBS) test. While asphalt rubber was the best performer in terms of aggregate loss, CRS-2P and CRS-2TR performed similarly followed by the conventional emulsion. Results of the BBS test showed a similar rank for the bond strength of the emulsions. It was also observed that the loss of aggregates in chip seal decreased with the increase in application rate. However, incorporation of rubber as aggregate in chip sealing increased the loss of aggregate in the specimens indicating poor adhesion between the emulsions and the rubber aggregate.
The Automatic Influence of Advocacy on Lawyers and Novices

It has long been known that advocating for a cause can alter the advocate’s beliefs. Yet a guiding assumption of many advocates is that the biasing effect of advocacy is controllable. Lawyers, for instance, are taught that they can retain unbiased beliefs while advocating for their clients and that they must do so to secure just outcomes. Across ten experiments (six preregistered; N = 3,104) we show that the biasing effect of advocacy is not controllable but automatic. Merely incentivizing people to advocate altered a range of beliefs about character, guilt and punishment. This bias appeared even in beliefs that are highly stable, when people were financially incentivized to form true beliefs and among professional lawyers, who are trained to prevent advocacy from biasing their judgements. When a person assumes the role of advocate, can they keep their personal beliefs separate from their role? This paper suggests not: merely accepting the role of advocate shifts people’s beliefs into alignment with their cause.
Training Neural Networks Using the Property of Negative Feedback to Inverse a Function.

With high forward gain, a negative feedback system has the ability to perform the inverse of a linear or non linear function that is in the feedback path. This property of negative feedback systems has been widely used in analog circuits to construct precise closed-loop functions. This paper describes how the property of a negative feedback system to perform inverse of a function can be used for training neural networks. This method does not require that the cost or activation functions be differentiable. Hence, it is able to learn a class of non-differentiable functions as well where a gradient descent-based method fails. We also show that gradient descent emerges as a special case of the proposed method. We have applied this method to the MNIST dataset and obtained results that shows the method is viable for neural network training. This method, to the best of our knowledge, is novel in machine learning.