cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Social justice: a concept analysis

buettner-schmidt k. & lobo m.l. (2011) Social justice: a concept analysis. Journal of Advanced Nursing 68(4), 948–958. Abstract Aim. This article is a report of an analysis of the concept of social justice. Background. Nursing’s involvement in social justice has waned in the recent past. A resurgence of interest in nurses’ roles about social justice requires a clear understanding of the concept. Data sources. Literature for this concept analysis included English language articles from CINAHL, PubMed, and broad multidisciplinary literature databases, within and outside of health-related literature, for the years 1968–2010. Two books and appropriate websites were also reviewed. The reference lists of the identified sources were reviewed for additional sources. Review methods. The authors used Wilsonian methods of concept analysis as a guide. Results. An efficient, synthesized definition of social justice was developed, based on the identification of its attributes, antecedents and consequences that provides clarification of the concept. Social justice was defined as full participation in society and the balancing of benefits and burdens by all citizens, resulting in equitable living and a just ordering of society. Its attributes included: (1) fairness; (2) equity in the distribution of power, resources, and processes that affect the sufficiency of the social determinants of health; (3) just institutions, systems, structures, policies, and processes; (4) equity in human development, rights, and sustainability; and (5) sufficiency of well-being. Conclusion. Nurses can have an important influence on the health of people globally by reinvesting in social justice. Implications for research, education, practice and policy, such as development of a social justice framework and educational competencies are presented.
Isospectral membranes: a connection between shape and density

A connection is established via conformal maps between vibrating membranes that are isospectral with respect to shape and those that are isospectral with respect to density. In particular, inhomogeneous circular membranes are constructed that are isospectral to polygonal membranes of uniform density via the Schwarz–Christoffel mapping. Although some corners of the polygons lead to singularities in the constructed densities, the densities are shown to be integrable.
SmartStep 2.0 - A completely wireless, versatile insole monitoring system

Insole based wearable sensors are becoming popular in applications such as gait and physical activity monitoring, energy expenditure estimation, in providing biofeedback, fall risk and others. In the existing systems, the insole needs to be taken out of the shoe to recharge the battery, which is not a convenient task. The existing systems are application specific and can be used for a limited purpose. However, the desired system functionality for the shoe based wearable systems depends on factors such as the targeted age group of the individuals and laboratory set up vs free living conditions. We attempt to fill these gaps in this work, as we present the recent advancements in SmartStep monitors - SmartStep 2.0, making it a completely wireless, versatile gait data acquisition device. We discuss the implementation of the seamless wireless charging feature to resolve the battery charging problems, along with the implementation of the base station for charging purposes. In making the SmartStep 2.0 a versatile insole monitor, we discuss the implementation of the Wireless Firmware Upgrade (WFD) feature, which allows the same insole system to be used in different application scenarios. Two example application scenarios for wireless gait data acquisition are discussed, along with the power consumption figures in different modes. Results suggest that the SmartStep 2.0 can potentially be used in the ambulatory monitoring of physical activity and gait in laboratory as well as in free living conditions.
Prospective study of γ' fibrinogen and incident venous thromboembolism: The Longitudinal Investigation of Thromboembolism Etiology (LITE).

Abstract Introduction Epidemiological studies generally have not found plasma total fibrinogen to be a risk factor for venous thromboembolism (VTE), but several have reported associations between variants in the fibrinogen gamma gene ( FGG ) and VTE. A case-control study in whites suggested plasma γ ′ fibrinogen concentration may be associated inversely with VTE, but this was not replicated in African Americans. Objective To examine the prospective association between γ ′ fibrinogen concentrations and occurrence of VTE. Methods We used the Longitudinal Investigation of Thromboembolism Etiology (LITE), involving two pooled population-based cohorts in the United States including 16,234 participants. The cohorts comprised white and African American men and women, aged 50 years and older at study onset in the early 1990s. We identified VTEs during follow-up and documented they met standardized diagnostic criteria. Results During two decades of follow-up, neither γ ′ fibrinogen nor total fibrinogen nor their ratio was associated with VTE overall (n = 521 VTEs), in subgroups defined by race, or in other subgroups. In both race groups, the minor allele of FGG rs2066865 was associated with lower γ ′ fibrinogen concentrations, but this allele was not associated with VTE. Conclusions A lower plasma concentration of γ ′ fibrinogen in healthy adults does not appear to increase VTE risk.
The management of the impalpable testis by surgery alone.

AbstractWe evaluated 68 prepubertal boys with 84 impalpable testes who were operated upon without using any other diagnostic maneuvers. Of the testes 18 (22%) were absent (anorchism or ‘vanished’) and 38 (45%) could be placed in a scrotal position with standard orchiopexy. A staged, Fowler-Stephens or microvascular procedure was required for 28 testes (33%), involving orchiectomy in 2 cases, and succeeded in a scrotal position for another 24 testes. In 1 boy 2 testes were fixed outside the inguinal canal. Reexamination after 3 to 9 years showed that 42 of 55 operated testes (76%) were in scrotal position without atrophy, 10 had atrophied and 3 were removed at the second stage operation. We conclude that an exclusive surgical approach has the advantage of providing diagnosis and therapy, and, therefore, it is an effective method.
Effects of Visual Angle on Reading

The accuracy and speed of proofreading was unaffected by a wide range of visual angle (at least 16–36 deg). Text on most computer displays and on 8–1/2 × 11 in. paper subtend visual angles within this range—even with typical variations in reading distance.
Maternal serum interleukin-6 levels predict impending funisitis in preterm premature rupture of membranes after completion of antibiotics.

Objective: To determine if maternal serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels remain predictive of funisitis after completion of antibiotic administration in preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM). Methods: A secondary analysis of a prospective cohort study. Daily blood samples obtained from PPROM subjects were analyzed for IL-6 by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Subjects (N = 39) delivered >7days post admission and were divided into those with and without funisitis. Data were analyzed using Mann–Whitney U test. Results: Maternal serum IL-6 levels obtained 24–48 hours and 48–72 hours before delivery are elevated in PPROM subjects with funisitis compared to those without funisitis (6.3 vs. 2.7 pg/ml, P < 0.03; 6.1 vs. 1.7 pg/ml, P < 0.02). Receiver operator characteristic curve revealed an IL-6 level of 1.98 pg/ml had sensitivity of 86.7%, specificity of 46.7%, positive predictive value of 61.9% and negative predictive value of 77.8%. Conclusion: This data suggests that maternal serum IL-6 levels contin...
313 UP-REGULATION OF ALKALINE PHOSPHATASE IN THE AORTA MAY CONTRIBUTE TO VESSEL CALCIFICATION IN UREMIC RATS.

We have previously shown that pyrophosphate (PPi) is an important endogenous inhibitor of medial vascular calcification. Calcification can be induced in intact vessels in culture only after removal of PPi. This suggests that a deficiency of PPi, due either to decreased production or increased degradation, could explain vascular calcification in renal failure. Pyrophosphate can be hydrolyzed by inorganic pyrophosphatase or alkaline phosphatase (alk p).We therefore examined the effect of uremia on PPi degradation. Alk p induces calcification in culture and could also play a pathogenetic role in vessel calcification in vivo. We investigated effects of uremia in vivo. We also investigated influence of uremic plasma, parathyroid hormone, and calcitriol, as well as [Ca] and [PO4] on the PPi degradation and alkaline phosphatase activity in rat aortas in culture. Aortic rings from control and uremic rats were cultured in DMEM containing 1.8 mM Ca and 0.9 mM PO4. Uremia was produced by an adenine diet for 4 weeks and controls were pair-fed normal rat chow. Alk p activity in intact vessels was measured as hydrolysis of p-nitrophenylphosphate (p-NP) and the rate of PPi hydrolysis was measured using 32 PPi. The rate of p-NP hydrolysis by intact aorta in culture was pH dependent in a manner consistent with alk p. PPi hydrolysis was 60% greater and alk p activity 100% greater in uremic rats vs normal rats. Similar results were obtained when normal aortas cultured with uremic serum. PTH, calcitriol, and high [PO4] or high [Ca] up-regulated alk p 2- to 3-fold in aortas from normal rats. These results indicate that humoral circulatory factors may up-regulate vascular alk p activity in vessels in uremia and could promote calcification by increasing pyrophosphate hydrolysis. PTH, calcitriol, [Ca], and [PO4] also up-regulate alk p and could contribute to calcification.
RCB: a simple and practical framework for real-time collaborative browsing

Existing co-browsing solutions must use either a specific collaborative platform, a modified Web server, or a dedicated proxy to coordinate the browsing activities between Web users. In addition, these solutions usually require co-browsing participants to install special software on their computers. These requirements heavily impede the wide use of collaborative browsing over the Internet. In this paper, we propose a simple and practical framework for Real-time Collaborative Browsing (RCB). This RCB framework is a pure browser-based solution. It leverages the power of Ajax (Asynchronous JavaScript and XML) techniques and the end-user extensibility of modernWeb browsers to support co-browsing. RCB enables real-time collaboration among Web users without the involvement of any third-party platforms, servers, or proxies. It allows users to perform fine-grained high quality co-browsing on arbitrary websites and webpages. We implemented the RCB framework in the Firefox Web browser and evaluated its performance and usability. Our evaluation results demonstrate that the proposed RCB is simple, practical, helpful and easy to use.
Chimeric Glutamate Receptor Subunits Reveal the Transmembrane Domain Is Sufficient for NMDA Receptor Pore Properties but Some Positive Allosteric Modulators Require Additional Domains.

NMDA receptors are ligand-gated ion channels that underlie transmission at excitatory synapses and play an important role in regulating synaptic strength and stability. Functional NMDA receptors require two copies of the GluN1 subunit coassembled with GluN2 (and/or GluN3) subunits into a heteromeric tetramer. A diverse array of allosteric modulators can upregulate or downregulate NMDA receptor activity. These modulators include both synthetic compounds and endogenous modulators, such as cis- unsaturated fatty acids, 24(S)-hydroxycholesterol, and various neurosteroids. To evaluate the structural requirements for the formation and allosteric modulation of NMDA receptor pores, we have replaced portions of the rat GluN1, GluN2A, and GluN2B subunits with homologous segments from the rat GluK2 kainate receptor subunit. Our results with these chimeric constructs show that the NMDA receptor transmembrane domain is sufficient to account for most pore properties, but that regulation by some allosteric modulators requires additional cytoplasmic or extracellular domains. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Glutamate receptors mediate excitatory synaptic transmission by forming cation channels through the membrane that open upon glutamate binding. Although many compounds have been identified that regulate glutamate receptor activity, in most cases the detailed mechanisms that underlie modulation are poorly understood. To identify what parts of the receptor are essential for pore formation and sensitivity to allosteric modulators, we generated chimeric subunits that combined segments from NMDA and kainate receptors, subtypes with distinct pharmacological profiles. Surprisingly, our results identify separate domain requirements for allosteric potentiation of NMDA receptor pores by pregnenolone sulfate, 24(S)-hydroxycholesterol, and docosahexaenoic acid, three endogenous modulators derived from membrane constituents. Understanding where and how these compounds act on NMDA receptors should aid in designing better therapeutic agents.
Radiation effects in GaN devices and materials(Conference Presentation)

Gallium Nitride (GaN) is a wide-bandgap semiconductor having excellent radiation properties. GaN crystal is ionic-covalent with significant iconicity resulting in stronger molecular bond strength, which in in turn leads to excellent radiation hardness. Further, GaN has ultrafast carrier relaxation time. GaN transistors are promising for high-frequency applications due to their large bandgap (3.9eV) and higher breakdown field (<5MV/cm). These exceptional characteristics make GaN suitable to operate in high radiation flux environment such as fusion plasma facilities, for ultrafast detection. The expected detector temporal response is faster than 0.01-1 ns. We have been systematically testing neutron radiation effects in GaN devices and materials at Los Alamos Neutron Science Center (LANSCE) with ever increased neutron fluence levels, and at National Ignition Facility (NIF) high foot, high yield shots. In 2013 LANSCE run cycle, we tested GaN UV LED devices at 3.1E11 neutrons/cm^2. In 2015-2016 LANSCE run cycles, we have been operating three neutron beam lines with fluence level 1.2E11, 1.5E13, and 1E15 neutrons/cm^2. The irradiated samples include GaN UV LEDs, GaN HEMTs, and GaN substrates. In the experiments up to 2015 run cycle, we have characterized electrical and optical performances of GaN device before and after neutron irradiation, including the device IV curve measurements monitored at over the three months neutron irradiation time, and device IV curve measurements before and after NIF high yield shot irradiation. We observed no substantial degradation. These experiments firmly established GaN devices as the radiation hard platform of the next generation fusion plasma diagnostic instruments.
The Phenomenology of the Open Body

Richard Rolle’s phenomenology explores the mystical event as enacted on the body of the hermit. In the act of narrating his experience, Rolle relates the preparation of the body for mystical experience by emphasizing its queer possibilities. By placing the body beyond normative sense structures, the body opens itself to the queer possibilities of experiencing the divine. Rolle orients the senses to the experience of fire, sweetness, and song as a way to unpack the queer touch of God on the eremitic body.
Hemodynamic Considerations in the Polytrauma Patient with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Traumatic brain injury in the setting of polytrauma is associated with high morbidity and mortality. In particular, anemia, shock, hypoxia, and impaired cerebral autoregulation contribute to secondary brain injury. Treatment is focused on preservation of cerebral perfusion pressure with crystalloids and vasopressors while avoiding colloid solutions; and packed red blood cell transfusion for anemia. Raised intracranial pressure should be managed in a stepwise fashion. However, considerable knowledge gaps exist, and newer methods of monitoring brain injury, such as pressure reactivity index, partial pressure of brain oxygen, and microdialysis offer the potential for individualized patient care.
Insights into transgenerational epigenetics from studies of ciliates

Epigenetics, a term with many meanings, can be broadly defined as the study of dynamic states of the genome. Ciliates, a clade of unicellular eukaryotes, can teach us about the intersection of epigenetics and evolution due to the advantages of working with cultivable ciliate lineages, plus their tendency to express extreme phenotypes such as heritable doublet morphology. Moreover, ciliates provide a powerful model for studying epigenetics given the presence of dimorphic nuclei - a somatic macronucleus and germline micronucleus - within each cell. Here, we exemplify the power of studying ciliates to learn about epigenetic phenomena. We highlight "classical" examples from morphology and physiology including cortical inheritance, mating type determination, and serotype expression. In addition, we detail molecular studies of epigenetic phenomena, including: DNA elimination; alternative processing and unscrambling; and copy number determination. Based on the implications of these studies, we discuss epigenetics as a possible functional mechanism for rapid speciation in ciliates.
Enhancing School Counselor Research and Practice in Data-Based Assessment Through Single-Case Research Design

AbstractSchool counselors are increasingly called upon to implement evidence-based practice interventions and demonstrate their outcomes. Pre-/posttest designs are helpful in assessing intervention efficacy but do not provide progress monitoring as interventions unfold. This article describes ways to enhance school counselor skills in data-based assessment using single-case research design (SCRD), an underutilized design by school counselors that has demonstrated success to inform intervention in related fields. Examples of SCRD are provided, including application to professional practice and research. Implications of employing SCRD in school counseling practice as a research design that enhances data-based decision-making are also explored.
The Effect of Telehealth Interventions on Quality of Life of Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Abstract Introduction: In 2016, ∼1.7 million new cases of cancer were diagnosed. Cancer patients can have physical, functional, and psychosocial issues when dealing with cancer treatment. Telehealth has been effectively introduced to help deliver treatment to patients suffering from chronic disease; however, there is little consensus on its effectiveness in administering sociobehavioral cancer treatments. Thus, this study determines the benefits of telehealth-based interventions providing emotional and symptom support in improving quality of life (QOL) among cancer patients. Methods: Two researchers conducted comprehensive searches on PubMed, SCOPUS, Medline, PsycINFO, ERIC, Psychology and Behavioral Collection, and Medline Complete. Key search terms included telehealth or telemedicine and QOL and cancer. Articles were included if they assessed a telehealth-delivered intervention for adult cancer patients and provided a QOL assessment. Data were extracted to calculate mean effect sizes for QOL measures on...
Better Teaming Through Visual Cues: How Projecting Imagery in a Workspace Can Improve Human-Robot Collaboration

In this article, we present a communication paradigm using a context-aware mixed-reality approach for instructing human workers when collaborating with robots. The main objective is to utilize the physical work environment as a canvas to communicate task-related instructions and robot intentions in the form of visual cues. A vision-based object-tracking algorithm is used to precisely determine the pose and state of physical objects in and around the workspace. A projection-mapping technique is employed to overlay visual cues on the tracked objects and the workspace. Simultaneous tracking and projection onto objects enable the system to provide just-in-time instructions for carrying out a procedural task.
Sequential versus simultaneous assignment systems and two applications

We study assignment systems where objects are assigned to agents sequentially. Student placement to exam and mainstream schools in the USA and centralized teacher appointment in Turkey are two of many examples. Despite their prevalence in practice, research on sequential systems has been rather limited. We analyze the properties of the systems in use in these places and show that they do not satisfy desirable fairness, welfare, and incentive criteria. It turns out such shortcomings are inherent in more general sequential assignment systems as well. We then analyze preference revelation games associated with various sequential systems including those comprising of combinations of well-known mechanisms.
CHANGES IN ANTINOCICEPTION AFTER EXPOSURE OF ANIMALS DURING EARLY DEVELOPMENT TO CHRONIC STRESS AND CHRONIC ADMINISTRATION OF NARCOTIC ANALGESICS

Chronic stress, produced simply by the daily subcutaneous injection of immature mice with saline, produced an increase in the sensitivity of these mice, when tested at maturity, to morphine-analgesia (MA). In addition, chronic exposure to narcotic antagonists during development, using the same injection schedule, increased the latency of response to a painful stimulus.
Development of a Monte Carlo Mars-Gram model for 2001 Mars Odyssey aerobraking simulations

Atmospheric density data taken during the Mars Global Surveyor aerobraking mission (1997-1999) showed significant variability over the altitude ranges (100-140 km) of interest for aerobraking. This paper presents the method by which Mars Global Surveyor data were used to determine the statistical distribution of mean density and the amplitude and phase of stationary atmospheric waves as a function of latitude. The combination of mean density and waves produced a good fit to the observed data. Using this information, a model was developed to implement the variations into Monte Carlo simulations for future missions to Mars, specifically the Mars Odyssey aerobraking mission (October, 2001-January, 2002). An example of Monte Carlo results for the Mars Odyssey aerobraking mission is shown.
The Sentient Map and Its Application to the Macro University E-Learning Environment

The sentient map is a new paradigm for visual information retrieval. It enables the user to view data as maps, so that gestures, more specifically c-gestures, can be used for the interaction between the user and the multimedia information system. Different c-gestures are then dynamically transformed into spatial/temporal queries, or σ-queries, for multimedia information sources and databases. An e-learning environment called the Macro University serves as a test bed to evaluate this approach.
Hardware-in-the-loop simulation at the U.S. Army Missile Command

This paper describes Hardware-In-The-Loop simulation as practiced at the U.S. Army Missile Command Advanced Simulation Center (ASC) located at Redstone Arsenal, Alabama. An overview of several of the simulators operated at the ASC is followed by a discussion of the role of simulation in the missile system development process. The paper concludes with a summary of the Verification and Validation methodology employed for a typical hardware-in- the-loop simulation.
An LCA methodology to assess location-specific environmental externalities of integrated energy systems

Abstract Quantification of location-specific environmental effects attributable to the operation and future growth planning of integrated energy systems (IES) is an important part of quantitative sustainability analysis. Toward this end, this paper presents a Life Cycle Assessment methodology which accounts for diurnal and seasonal changes in emission rates from different supply and demand-side energy systems due to variations in the regional power generation energy portfolio mix. The proposed methodology has been illustrated using end-use monitored data for a whole year operation of a university campus IES. The analysis revealed that the average external costs of purchased electricity, specific to the local power utility fuel mix, were about 1.93 ¢/kWh, with ±8% diurnal and ±5% seasonal variations, while externalities from solar photovoltaics were four times lower. Depending on the amount of recovered heat, the externalities associated with the cogeneration system ranged from 1.86 ¢/kWh (with cogeneration total efficiency of 71%) to 4.36 ¢/kWh if no heat is recovered. The novel contribution of the proposed methodology is the ability to evaluate in real-time the environmental externalities associated with demand-side IES which will facilitate real-time sustainable operation of such systems in terms of dynamic building load management and optimal control and operation.
Components of RF front-end modules

Driven by the original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) who make smartphones, the fourth generation (4G) and the fifth generation (5G) mobile technologies are changing the radio frequency (RF) front-end (RFFE) industry landscape. This chapter discusses the different components utilized in the design of modern RFFE transceiver modules, whether used to construct a simple or a highly integrated complex module. In particular, the Chapter discusses RF power modules, low-noise amplifiers, RF switches, phase shifters, RF filters, CMOS controllers, RF circulators and isolators, RF mixers, RF oscillators, microwave baluns, RF power limiters, and diversity antennas.
TSPO-targeted agents for PDT of aggressive tumors (Withdrawal Notice)

This paper, originally published on 7 August 2019, was withdrawn at the request of the authors on 12 August 2019.
Learning That Brings Joy in an African Language Class: The Power of Reflection and Service Learning

In the twenty-first century, learning must value diversity while developing skills that position students to succeed in the global market. Through a Service Learning (SL) model, third-level Swahili students and their teachers collaborated to offer six Swahili language and culture lessons to the elderly in one community center nearby their University Campus, to educate them about the relevance of such minority culture in America. The study shows that students remembered better what they learned, they felt like a big family and found joy and value in learning an African language. This study underscores the relevance of Service Learning for twenty-first-century learners and shows the value of using guided-reflection as a pedagogical practice in a foreign language class. Challenges and implications for teaching are discussed.
Waterproof, Omnidirectionally Stretchable Electronics with Multilayer Patterns Via Rapid, Photolithography-Free Fabrication

We report for the first time that stretchable electronics systems with complex geometric constructs and multiple layers of patterns can be fabricated rapidly without the need of photolithography steps. Instead, a desktop-size vinyl cutter and a CO2 laser cutter are used as patterning tools in our proposed process. To demonstrate the capacity of our method, we fabricate within 50 minutes per device a waterproof, omnidirectionally stretchable micro-supercapacitor patch with four stacked constituent layers, each with a different pattern. This soft, compliant patch can maintain full electrochemical performances after >16 hours of immersion in water, and/or various types of extreme folding and stretching deformations.
Perception of word-final devoicing in Polish

Researchers examining the phonetic characteristics of a number of neutralization rules have found that underlying contrasts that should be neutralized are phonetically preserved. In particular, earlier results from a production experiment suggested that the rule of word-final devoicing in Polish is not neutralizing. The present investigation extended this work by testing whether the acoustic measures identified in productions from the original study are functional in perception. Native Polish and English listeners identified Polish monosyllabic words using a two-alternative forced-choice procedure. Results for the Polish subjects revealed better than chance performance in identifying words from the minimal pairs examined in the production study, although the magnitude of these results was less than expected. Moreover, the results suggested a bias to choose the voiceless alternative. Data obtained from English speaking subjects revealed similar results, suggesting that poor identification performance and a bias to respond with the voiceless alternative is not a function of Polish listeners’ familiarity with the rules of the language. The combined results suggest that differences in measurements obtained in the production study are not the primary cue used to distinguish reliably these items in perception.
Predictive value of quick SOFA and revised Baux scores in burn patients

Abstract Several scoring systems, such as the Baux score, help predict outcomes in burn patients. The quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (qSOFA) score (composed of a respiratory rate of 22/min or greater, systolic blood pressure of 100 mmHg or less, and altered mental status) is a new bedside index proposed to help identify patients with suspected infection at risk of complications. We hypothesized that qSOFA scores would be associated with in-hospital mortality, ICU admission, and length of stay (LOS) in patients with burns. We performed a retrospective review of all burn patients admitted between January 2010–March 2017 at an academic, suburban, hospital with a regional burn center. qSOFA scores were calculated as 1 point each for GCS 2 was considered high risk. Revised Baux (rBaux) scores were calculated as age +%TBSA burned +17 (if inhalation injury). A rBaux score >140 was considered high risk. Univariate, multivariate and receiver operating characteristics analyses were performed to compare qSOFA and rBaux scores. There were 1039 burn admissions during the study period. Mean age was 30 ± 24 years, 66% were male. Mean TBSA was 10 ± 12%, mean injury severity score was 5 ± 8. Mean hospital LOS was 8 ± 24 days, 22 patients (2.1%) died. qSOFA scores were associated with mortality and ICU admission. Of all patients, 80 were high risk by qSOFA and 7 by Baux scores. ROC characteristics of qSOFA and Baux scores for predicting death were sensitivity 36% vs. 32%, specificity 94% vs. 100%, PPV 13% vs. 100%, and NPV 98% vs. 99% respectively. The AUC for qSOFA (0.68 [95% CI, 0.54–0.81]) was lower than for Baux (0.99 [95%CI, 0.99–1.00]). Youden’s index identified an optimal cutoff of 85 on the Baux score yielding sensitivity 100%, specificity 94%, PPV 27%, and NPV 100% for mortality. Our results indicate that while qSOFA scores were associated with outcomes, a rBaux score had greater predictive value. The optimal rBaux score for predicting all mortality and ICU admission was 85.
Flame Retardant Properties and Thermal Stability of Polylactic Acid Filled with Layered Double Hydroxide and Rice Husk Ash Silica

Polylactic acid (PLA) samples containing a layered double hydroxide modified with sodium dodecyl sulfate (PKL_DS), silica from rice husk ash (SiRHA) and a combination of the two nanofillers were prepared by both solvent casting and a more practical approach involving dry blending of constituents and their melting in a mixing tank followed by compression molding. The morphology of the nanocomposite films was investigated using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), and it was confirmed that the nanocomposite structures were intercalated. Additionally, SEM pictures of surfaces of nanocomposite films suggest that PKL_DS was well dispersed throughout the PLA matrix, and the films were essentially featureless except at the highest concentration examined. In the case of SiRHA, there was filler aggregation at low concentration, while holes and cavities were clearly visible at higher concentrations. The addition of PKL_DS to films containing SiRHA ameliorated these effects, and ultimately a dense structure was obtained. From TGA results, it was determined that only the addition of SiRHA significantly improved the thermal stability of PLA. The flammability performance of PLA nanocomposites was investigated using limiting oxygen index (LOI) and UL-94V type measurements. A maximum LOI value of 32.8% could be achieved for PLA nanocomposites containing 10 wt% PKL_DS and 5 wt% SiRHA. This was 78% higher than the LOI of neat PLA alone. Furthermore, PLA containing 10 wt% PKL_DS and 3–5 wt% SiRHA attained a V-0 rating on UL-94 type tests with anti-dripping behavior. It was found that there was synergism between PKL_DS and SiRHA, and this was very effective in improving the flame retardant performance of PLA. That this performance came about without having to completely exfoliate the nanofillers is a remarkably useful result.
Intellectual Property Research and Critical Theories

This chapter briefly summarizes the impact of critical theoretical methods on intellectual property (IP) scholarship. It speculates that the influence of critical legal theory on IP is greater than typically acknowledged or understood, and draws on scholarly examples at the juncture of critical and liberal theories to make this point. Note that the current SSRN version replaces the original draft dated July 24, 2018 and entitled IP and Critical Theories.
Modeling Cell Populations Measured By Flow Cytometry With Covariates Using Sparse Mixture of Regressions

The ocean is filled with microscopic microalgae called phytoplankton, which together are responsible for as much photosynthesis as all plants on land combined. Our ability to predict their response to the warming ocean relies on understanding how the dynamics of phytoplankton populations is influenced by changes in environmental conditions. One powerful technique to study the dynamics of phytoplankton is flow cytometry, which measures the optical properties of thousands of individual cells per second. Today, oceanographers are able to collect flow cytometry data in real-time onboard a moving ship, providing them with fine-scale resolution of the distribution of phytoplankton across thousands of kilometers. One of the current challenges is to understand how these small and large scale variations relate to environmental conditions, such as nutrient availability, temperature, light and ocean currents. In this paper, we propose a novel sparse mixture of multivariate regressions model to estimate the time-varying phytoplankton subpopulations while simultaneously identifying the specific environmental covariates that are predictive of the observed changes to these subpopulations. We demonstrate the usefulness and interpretability of the approach using both synthetic data and real observations collected on an oceanographic cruise conducted in the north-east Pacific in the spring of 2017.
Reconciling Theory and Context in Comparative Nonprofit Research

The article reviews a family of multilevel models that can be used to build general theories of the nonprofit sector that are still sensitive to variations in context. The comparative study of the ...
Properties of autobiographical memories are reliable and stable individual differences.

Abstract Autobiographical memory research typically focuses on individual memories with variability in individual participants' responses serving as error variance. Integrating individual-difference and experimental approaches demonstrated that properties of autobiographical memories are stable individual differences with stable patterns of correlations. In two sessions approximately one week apart, different cues were used to prompt seven autobiographical memories. Each memory was rated on 12 properties including visual imagery, emotional intensity, narrative coherence, reliving, and past rehearsals. In two studies with samples from different populations (Ns of 200 and 160), each property had a high reliability in both sessions (median α = .90), and the mean of each property averaged over seven memories correlated highly with itself over sessions (median r = .72). Multiple regressions predicting three properties from Session 1 with the remaining nine properties of Session 2 and exploratory factor analyses yielded solutions consistent with expectations from studies of individual memories. Moreover, the correlation matrices of the 12 properties across studies and sessions were extremely similar. Thus, separate sessions, cues, samples, and properties provided generalizable data about individual differences in autobiographical memory. Practical, theoretical, and methodological implications include that individual differences in memory affect: life stories and narrative structure internal to events, stable clinical syndromes and symptoms, experimental results previously attributed to the properties of individual memories, and the confidence people have in the accuracy of their autobiographical and episodic memories.
The Economic Implication of the EU-UA Data Privacy Relationship on its Bilateral Digital Trade Activities (preprint)

It is no longer news that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a negative impact on global economic activities. While countries continue to grapple with the seeming unending destruction of human lives caused by the pandemic, global economy continue to suffer due to the slow or lack of economic activities across the world. With restrictions imposed by countries across the globe, the pandemic has crippled traditional infrastructures deployed by countries in executing traditional cross-border bilateral trades. With the palpable fear of recession looming across the globe, coupled with the uncertainties around resumption of normal economic activities, economies of the world are learning to adapt to a “new normal” as economic activities and business relationships have transitioned online. This has contributed to the astronomical increase in internet activities by users; turning the world into a global marketplace. According to reports, worldwide digital population as of last quarter 2020 stood at 4.66 billion users . This represents almost more than half of the world’s population and a sharp increase from previous figure of 3.97 billion users. The increase in internet users has been attributed to the transition of most business activities, whether domestic or foreign, to the internet, as companies leveraged on technology and internet to provides goods and services across the globe. While the increase in internet users stimulated the global digital economy during the pandemic, it resulted to an increase the exposure of personal or business data of its users online. A situation which has exposed the inefficiencies in the data protection legal framework of some countries and, reinforced the advantage other countries have during bilateral digital trade as result of having a more robust data protection framework. This article examines the European Union (EU) and United States of America (US) data privacy relationship and the possible impact it may have on the bilateral digital trade relationship between both countries as global economy transition into digital economy. To unravel this issue, the author would examine the existing digital trade relationship between the EU and the USA and potential impact the provisions of the General Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”) may have on same even as global economies transition to digital trade as a tool to stimulate economic activities while avoiding the spread of COVID-19.
Profiles of Emotion Socialization Across Development and Longitudinal Associations with Youth Psychopathology

Although there is relative consensus in the literature regarding associations between certain emotion socialization (ES) strategies and youth behavioral health, there is very limited research from a person-centered perspective. To address this gap, the current study examined patterns of ES strategies in families and explored predictors and youth outcomes associated with those patterns. An economically-diverse sample of 229 predominately White mothers and fathers of youth aged 3–12 years was recruited online for a longitudinal study. Latent profile analysis was used to determine the optimal number of family clusters with similar ES profiles. Model fit supported a four-class model, which consisted of an Emotion Coaching profile, characterized by the lowest levels of putatively labeled unsupportive ES practices and the highest levels of putatively labeled supportive ES practices, a Moderate profile characterized by moderate levels of both unsupportive and supportive ES practices, a Limited Engagement profile characterized by low levels of both unsupportive and supportive ES practices, and an Emotion Dismissing profile characterized by the highest levels of unsupportive ES practices and the lowest levels of supportive ES practices. Cross-sectional and longitudinal differences were observed across the ES profiles with regard to demographic and parent emotional competence predictors and youth outcomes. The current study extends the literature on ES by providing evidence on how distinct ES profiles differentially predict youth behavioral health outcomes. Findings also underscore the importance of examining parent emotional competence as a catalyst for adaptive change in the family system.
Hypercontractivity on High Dimensional Expanders: a Local-to-Global Approach for Higher Moments

Hypercontractivity is one of the most powerful tools in Boolean function analysis. Originally studied over the discrete hypercube, recent years have seen increasing interest in extensions to settings like the $p$-biased cube, slice, or Grassmannian, where variants of hypercontractivity have found a number of breakthrough applications including the resolution of Khot's 2-2 Games Conjecture (Khot, Minzer, Safra FOCS 2018). In this work, we develop a new theory of hypercontractivity on high dimensional expanders (HDX), an important class of expanding complexes that has recently seen similarly impressive applications in both coding theory and approximate sampling. Our results lead to a new understanding of the structure of Boolean functions on HDX, including a tight analog of the KKL Theorem and a new characterization of non-expanding sets. Unlike previous settings satisfying hypercontractivity, HDX can be asymmetric, sparse, and very far from products, which makes the application of traditional proof techniques challenging. We handle these barriers with the introduction of two new tools of independent interest: a new explicit combinatorial Fourier basis for HDX that behaves well under restriction, and a new local-to-global method for analyzing higher moments. Interestingly, unlike analogous second moment methods that apply equally across all types of expanding complexes, our tools rely inherently on simplicial structure. This suggests a new distinction among high dimensional expanders based upon their behavior beyond the second moment.
Chapter 7 – Structure Prediction by Density Functional Theory Calculations

For most ligand-protected gold nanoclusters, we know their compositions but not their structures. To search for effective strategies to predict structures of Aun(SR)m nanoclusters becomes a main challenge. In this chapter, we discuss the recent progress in structure prediction of thiolated gold clusters. Most predictions are based on the density functional theory calculations, and the staple motif hypothesis is our main strategy. Moreover, besides the widely used thiolate ligands, the alkynyl ligands such as PhCC– emerge as a new type of ligands to protect the gold surfaces, leading to the so-called “organogold” nanoclusters. Organogold clusters form unique π staple motifs at the interfaces, somewhat different from their thiolate counterparts, and understanding the self-assembly mechanism and atomic structures of organogold nanoclusters will be a new research interest in the field of ligand-protected gold nanoclusters.
A nursery school for children with cerebral palsy; five-year follow-up study of thirteen children.

Obviously 13 cases is too small a number on which to base firm conclusions, particularly when we consider the different types of cerebral palsy, variations in degree, mental abilities, emotional status, economic background, social status and type of follow-up program. A few tentative conclusions could be made, realizing the above mentioned limitations: Intelligence is a major factor in determining the physical progress that can be anticipated in a child with cerebral palsy. Intelligence can be determined quite accurately in a child with cerebral palsy as young as 18 months of age. A cerebral palsy nursery school should have facilities for emotional guidance of children and parents. Lacking this, some children may fail to make the expected physical progress. Because consistent follow-up therapy and programming is very important, a skilled social service department can be very helpful. In general, parents and staff members felt that this cerebral palsy nursery school was very worthwhile when considered in retrospect 5 years later.
Adaptation in iron absorption: iron supplementation reduces nonheme-iron but not heme-iron absorption from food

Background: Results of cross-sectional studies suggest that in healthy people, iron absorption adapts to meet physiologic needs and stabilize iron stores, but this has not been adequately tested in longitudinal studies. Objective: We tested whether heme- and nonheme-iron absorption decrease in response to increased iron intake and whether iron stores reach a steady state. Design: In a randomized, placebo-controlled trial, heme- and nonheme-iron absorption by healthy men and women (n = 57) were measured before and after 12 wk of supplementation with 50 mg Fe/d as ferrous sulfate. Serum and fecal ferritin were measured during supplementation and for 6 mo thereafter. Results: Initially, both heme- and nonheme-iron absorption were inversely associated with serum ferritin concentration. Volunteers who took iron supplements, even those with serum ferritin <21 μg/L (n = 5), adapted to absorb less nonheme iron (3.2% at week 12 compared with 5.0% at week 0, P <0.001) but not less heme iron from a beef-based meal. Serum ferritin concentration was slightly but significantly higher after iron supplementation than after placebo (difference = 13 μg/L). This higher ferritin concentration persisted for ≥6 mo after supplementation, except in subjects with low iron stores, whose serum ferritin returned to baseline within 3 mo. Fecal ferritin excretion increased 2.5-fold (P < 0.05) during supplementation. Conclusions: Healthy individuals, even those with low iron stores, had reduced nonheme-iron absorption from food in response to iron supplementation. Despite this partial adaptation, iron stores were greater after iron supplementation than after placebo and this difference was sustained, except in individuals with the lowest iron stores.
Stark effect in the optical absorption in cubical quantum boxes

We have calculated the effect of a transverse electric field on the ground and the first few excited states of the electrons confined in a cubical quantum box and used these results to examine the effect of the electric field on the intersubband optical absorption in such quantum boxes. The electric field removes the degeneracies between several of the excited states in the box, which leads to peaks in the intersubband optical absorption of the box. The application of the electric field leads to a Stark shift of the electron energies, which is quadratic in the field at low fields but becomes almost linear in the field at high fields. The application of the electric field leads to a decrease in the energy levels. The electric field shifts the peaks in the optical absorption spectrum of the cubic box in a manner that depends upon the polarization of the optical field with respect to the applied electric field. We compare the results we obtain using the expansion of the wave functions in terms of the eigenstates of the particle in the box to the exact analytical results using Airy functions and find excellent agreement using only a few terms in the expansion. This has implications for results obtained using the expansion method when we do not have exact solutions with which to make a comparison.