Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
International Systems, Domestic Structures, and Risk

Why do some states embark on risky policies that appear certain to lead to disastrous outcomes while others seem more cautious as they interact with others in the international system? This is a central question that faces policymakers and one that has remained largely unexplored by scholars of international relations. This article argues that democratic peace theory speaks to the central factors that affect the risk preferences of states. Countries involved in Europe from 1816 to 1992 are analyzed to determine if levels of democracy and its constitutive elements affect risk-taking. Since critics argue that the strategic context affects the mechanisms underpinning explanations of the democratic peace, the effects of strategic variables on the relationships between regime type and risk-taking propensity are evaluated. Competing propositions are evaluated empirically using Bueno de Mesquita's indicator of risk with the EUGene dataset, which combines the Correlates of War and the Polity III data regarding regime type developed by Jaggers & Gurr. The results support the central hypothesis of the article - democracy is indeed associated with risk aversion regardless of the strategic context. However, the findings also suggest that states undergoing the transition to democracy from autocracy are more willing to take risks than are states with more stable forms of government. Further, the constitutive components of democracy have divergent effects on risk preferences.
LibN3L:A Lightweight Package for Neural NLP

We present a light-weight machine learning tool for NLP research. The package supports operations on both discrete and dense vectors, facilitating implementation of linear models as well as neural models. It provides several basic layers which mainly aims for single-layer linear and non-linear transformations. By using these layers, we can conveniently implement linear models and simple neural models. Besides, this package also integrates several complex layers by composing those basic layers, such as RNN, Attention Pooling, LSTM and gated RNN. Those complex layers can be used to implement deep neural models directly.
Attosecond band-gap dynamics in silicon

Electron transfer from valence to conduction band states in semiconductors is the basis of modern electronics. Here, attosecond extreme ultraviolet (XUV) spectroscopy is used to resolve this process in silicon in real time. Electrons injected into the conduction band by few-cycle laser pulses alter the silicon XUV absorption spectrum in sharp steps synchronized with the laser electric field oscillations. The observed ~450-attosecond step rise time provides an upper limit for the carrier-induced band-gap reduction and the electron-electron scattering time in the conduction band. This electronic response is separated from the subsequent band-gap modifications due to lattice motion, which occurs on a time scale of 60 ± 10 femtoseconds, characteristic of the fastest optical phonon. Quantum dynamical simulations interpret the carrier injection step as light-field–induced electron tunneling. Excited electrons in semiconducting silicon are tracked on a time scale faster than the lattice vibrations. [Also see Perspective by Spielmann] Watching electrons dart through silicon The ultimate speed limit in electronic circuitry is set by the motion of the electrons themselves. Schultze et al. applied attosecond spectroscopy to glimpse this motion in a sample of silicon, the semiconducting building block of modern integrated circuits (see the Perspective by Spielmann). The technique distinguished the electron dynamics—which proceed faster than a quadrillionth of a second after laser excitation—from the comparatively slower lattice motion of the silicon atomic nuclei. Science, this issue p. 1348; see also p. 1293
Variation Tolerance in a Multichannel Carbon-Nanotube Transistor for High-Speed Digital Circuits

This paper introduces the theory of a carbon-nanotube multichannel transistor and shows that, due to statistical averaging in such a structure, a lot of variations in growth and processing can be tolerated. A model of such a structure has been presented, and Monte Carlo simulations have been performed to identify which of the imperfections and sources of variation are more critical than others. We use this theoretical framework to study short and multichannel carbon-nanotube FET structures for high-performance VLSI.
Improved IP Multimedia Subsystem Authentication mechanism for 3G-WLAN networks

The provision of IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) introduces important advantages for users of 3G WLAN networks. However, a multi pass authentication procedure needs to be performed before accessing the IMS, resulting in added overhead and quality of service (QoS) degradation, which deters service providers from adopting the IMS model. The problem is further compounded when the user moves from one Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) domain into another, requiring that the authentication procedure be constantly repeated. To mitigate this problem, we present a lightweight, robust, and architecture-compatible IMS authentication protocol that implements a one-pass IMS procedure by promoting efficient key re-use for a mobile user. We derive an analytical model of our proposed scheme, and conduct numerical analysis that reveal a user authentication delay decrease of more than 50 percent.
THE DEVELOPMENT OF AN EXPERIMENTAL CONSCIENTIOUSNESS MEASUREMENT INSTRUMENT WITHIN THE SAPI PROJECT

Charnelle Janse van Rensburg and Prof. Deon Meiring (Stellenbosch University) THE DEVELOPMENT OF AN EXPERIMENTAL CONSCIENTIOUSNESS MEASUREMENT INSTRUMENT WITHIN THE SAPI PROJECT In psychology literature Conscientiousness forms part of a model that describes personality. Conscientiousness is defined by characteristics such as hard-working, determined, dutiful and perseverance. Conscientiousness is also a strong indicator of work performance and is often used for psychometric assessments during selection. However, in South Africa psychometric assessment, and especially personality testing, has been scrutinised to ensure that it is fair and unbiased in a multicultural society. This study focussed on the development of a Conscientiousness questionnaire based on a South African model of conscientiousness, which forms one factor of the South African Personality Inventory (SAPI) nine cluster model. The study aimed to investigate whether this conscientiousness questionnaire measures conscientiousness in South Africa. The study formed part of the second phase of the SAPI project (quantitative phase). An experimental conscientiousness instrument consisting of 255 items was administered to a sample of South African Police Service (SAPS) police reservists (N = 1051). Following various analyses 88 of the 255 items were removed. The facets also increased to 26. Cronbach alpha coefficient scores showed acceptable levels of reliability for 21 of the 26 facets. Factor analysis indicated that one factor should be retained. 19 facets loaded on this factor. The findings thus confirm the underlying dimensionality of the conscientiousness cluster. However, the findings also indicate that some facets may have to be re-defined.
Love or the “Lecherous Professor”: Consensual Sexual Relationships Between Professors and Students

We conducted telephone interviews with twenty-five professors and students, or former students, who have been involved in consensual sexual relationships. We examined the extent to which respondents' experiences are consistent with “lecherous professor” stereotypes. We also assessed differences in the perceptions and experiences of professors and students, and how these may be influenced by gender, race/ethnicity, sexual orientation, and undergraduate or graduate student status. Finally, we evaluated whether the experiences and perceptions of respondents suggest that these relationships should be controlled by institutional policies. We found little support for the “lecherous professor” stereotype based on our respondents' experiences. Two-thirds of the relationships were initiated by a student or were mutually initiated by student and professor. All students said they entered freely into these relationships. For many of our respondents, issues related to race/ethnicity, sexuality, and age brought greater challenges to the relationship than did the professor/student status difference. We found that negative reactions from others tended to be most extreme for those who crossed multiple status boundaries. Students, in particular, cited the power difference between professors and students as the greatest detriment in these relationships, although both students and professors tended to refer to power issues in abstract rather than personal terms. Although most students and professors said they would enter into such a relationship again, most advised others against doing so. Nearly all respondents thought consensual relationships were inappropriate in supervisory situations, and they supported institutional policies that prohibit them in such circumstances.
Venous opthalmodynamometry: a noninvasive method for assessment of intracranial pressure.

OBJECT The goal of this study was to examine the potential use of ophthalmodynamometry in the noninvasive assessment of intracranial pressure (ICP). Under normal conditions, pressure within the central retinal vein is equal to or greater than ICP, because the central retinal vein basses through the optic nerve before it drains into the cavernous sinus. The optic nerve sheath is the place where ICP affects retinal venous pressure. Suction ophthalmodynamometry is an established method of investigation in ophthalmology to determine the pressure of the central retinal artery. Although observations of papilledema and lack of venous pulsations are commonly used to provide a vague assessment of ICP, ophthalmodynamometry may be used to determine the pressure of the central retinal vein. This venous pressure has never been compared with ICP. METHODS In this study the pressure of the central retinal vein was recorded in 22 patients who underwent continuous simultaneous registration of ICP for various reasons, mainly for suspected hydrocephalus. A comparison of the two pressures was made. The results indicated a highly significant linear correlation between central retinal vein pressure and ICP. These results are of great practical value because up-to-date reliable ICP monitoring has only been possible by using invasive means, by placing a probe extradurally or subdurally into the brain parenchyma or a ventricle. CONCLUSIONS Ophthalmodynamometry can be relevant for momentary assessment and is not suitable for continuous monitoring. However, this technique can easily be repeated and may be used whenever increased ICP is suspected in a patient suffering from hydrocephalus, brain tumors, or head injury.
Liposome-Encapsulated ISMN: A Novel Nitric Oxide-Based Therapeutic Agent against Staphylococcus aureus Biofilms

Background Staphylococcus aureus in its biofilm form has been associated with recalcitrant chronic rhinosinusitis with significant resistance to conventional therapies. This study aims to determine if liposomal-encapsulation of a precursor of the naturally occurring antimicrobial nitric oxide (NO) enhances its desired anti-biofilm effects against S. aureus, in the hope that improving its efficacy can provide an effective topical agent for future clinical use. Methodology S. aureus ATCC 25923 biofilms were grown in-vitro using the Minimum Biofilm Eradication Concentration (MBEC) device and exposed to 3 and 60 mg/mL of the NO donor isosorbide mononitrate (ISMN) encapsulated into different anionic liposomal formulations based on particle size (unilamellar ULV, multilamellar MLV) and lipid content (5 and 25 mM) at 24 h and 5 min exposure times. Biofilms were viewed using Live-Dead Baclight stain and confocal scanning laser microscopy and quantified using the software COMSTAT2. Results At 3 and 60 mg/mL, ISMN-ULV liposomes had comparable and significant anti-biofilm effects compared to untreated control at 24 h exposure (p = 0.012 and 0.02 respectively). ULV blanks also had significant anti-biofilm effects at both 24 h and 5 min exposure (p = 0.02 and 0.047 respectively). At 5 min exposure, 60 mg/mL ISMN-MLV liposomes appeared to have greater anti-biofilm effects compared to pure ISMN or ULV particles. Increasing liposomal lipid content improved the anti-biofilm efficacy of both MLV and ULVs at 5 min exposure. Conclusion Liposome-encapsulated “nitric oxide” is highly effective in eradicating S. aureus biofilms in-vitro, giving great promise for use in the clinical setting to treat this burdensome infection. Further studies however are needed to assess its safety and efficacy in-vivo before clinical translation is attempted.
The CDKN1B-RB1-E2F1 pathway protects mouse spermatogonial stem cells from genomic damage

Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) undergo self-renewal divisions to provide the foundation for spermatogenesis. Although Rb1 deficiency is reportedly essential for SSC self-renewal, its mechanism has remained unknown. Here we report that Rb1 is critical for cell cycle progression and protection of SSCs from DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs). Cultured SSCs depleted of Cdkn1b proliferated poorly and showed diminished expression of CDK4 and RB1, thereby leading to hypophosphorylation of RB1. Rb1 deficiency induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in cultured SSCs, which expressed markers for DNA DSBs. This DNA damage is caused by increased E2F1 activity, the depletion of which decreased DNA DSBs caused by Rb1 deficiency. Depletion of Cdkn1a and Bbc3, which were upregulated by Trp53, rescued Rb1-deficient cells from undergoing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. These results suggest that the CDKN1B-RB1-E2F1 pathway is essential for SSC self-renewal and protects SSCs against genomic damage.
Synthetic Fatty Acids Prevent Plasmid-Mediated Horizontal Gene Transfer

ABSTRACT Bacterial conjugation constitutes a major horizontal gene transfer mechanism for the dissemination of antibiotic resistance genes among human pathogens. Antibiotic resistance spread could be halted or diminished by molecules that interfere with the conjugation process. In this work, synthetic 2-alkynoic fatty acids were identified as a novel class of conjugation inhibitors. Their chemical properties were investigated by using the prototype 2-hexadecynoic acid and its derivatives. Essential features of effective inhibitors were the carboxylic group, an optimal long aliphatic chain of 16 carbon atoms, and one unsaturation. Chemical modification of these groups led to inactive or less-active derivatives. Conjugation inhibitors were found to act on the donor cell, affecting a wide number of pathogenic bacterial hosts, including Escherichia, Salmonella, Pseudomonas, and Acinetobacter spp. Conjugation inhibitors were active in inhibiting transfer of IncF, IncW, and IncH plasmids, moderately active against IncI, IncL/M, and IncX plasmids, and inactive against IncP and IncN plasmids. Importantly, the use of 2-hexadecynoic acid avoided the spread of a derepressed IncF plasmid into a recipient population, demonstrating the feasibility of abolishing the dissemination of antimicrobial resistances by blocking bacterial conjugation. IMPORTANCE Diseases caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria are taking an important toll with respect to human morbidity and mortality. The most relevant antibiotic resistance genes come to human pathogens carried by plasmids, mainly using conjugation as a transmission mechanism. Here, we identified and characterized a series of compounds that were active against several plasmid groups of clinical relevance, in a wide variety of bacterial hosts. These inhibitors might be used for fighting antibiotic-resistance dissemination by inhibiting conjugation. Potential inhibitors could be used in specific settings (e.g., farm, fish factory, or even clinical settings) to investigate their effect in the eradication of undesired resistances. Diseases caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria are taking an important toll with respect to human morbidity and mortality. The most relevant antibiotic resistance genes come to human pathogens carried by plasmids, mainly using conjugation as a transmission mechanism. Here, we identified and characterized a series of compounds that were active against several plasmid groups of clinical relevance, in a wide variety of bacterial hosts. These inhibitors might be used for fighting antibiotic-resistance dissemination by inhibiting conjugation. Potential inhibitors could be used in specific settings (e.g., farm, fish factory, or even clinical settings) to investigate their effect in the eradication of undesired resistances.
Valproate is an effective, well‐tolerated drug for treatment of status epilepticus/serial attacks in adults

Objective – Status epilepticus (SE) and serial attacks (SA) represent neurological emergencies, and mortality rate for SE/SA is high, ranging from 3% to 25%, depending on cause and co‐morbidity. As SE/SA become more refractory to treatment over time, rapid, appropriate treatment is extremely important. Here, we report a prospective registration of the effect of intravenous (IV) valproate (VPA) on SE/SA in a group of Norwegian patients.
HOO 2012: A Report on the Preposition and Determiner Error Correction Shared Task

Incorrect usage of prepositions and determiners constitute the most common types of errors made by non-native speakers of English. It is not surprising, then, that there has been a significant amount of work directed towards the automated detection and correction of such errors. However, to date, the use of different data sets and different task definitions has made it difficult to compare work on the topic. This paper reports on the HOO 2012 shared task on error detection and correction in the use of prepositions and determiners, where systems developed by 14 teams from around the world were evaluated on the same previously unseen errorful text.
Risk factors for postoperative ileus

Purpose This study aimed to examine extended postoperative ileus and its risk factors in patients who have undergone abdominal surgery, and discuss the techniques of prevention and management thereof the light of related risk factors connected with our study. Methods This prospective study involved 103 patients who had undergone abdominal surgery. The effects of age, gender, diagnosis, surgical operation conducted, excessive small intestine manipulation, opioid analgesic usage time, and systemic inflammation on the time required for the restoration of intestinal motility were investigated. The parameters were investigated prospectively. Results Regarding the factors that affected the restoration of gastrointestinal motility, resection operation type, longer operation period, longer opioid analgesics use period, longer nasogastric catheter use period, and the presence of systemic inflammation were shown to retard bowel motility for 3 days or more. Conclusion Our study confirmed that unnecessary analgesics use in patients with pain tolerance with non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs, excessive small bowel manipulation, prolonged nasogastric catheter use have a direct negative effect on gastrointestinal motility. Considering that an exact treatment for postoperative ileus has not yet been established, and in light of the risk factors mentioned above, we regard that prevention of postoperative ileus is the most effective way of coping with intestinal dysmotility.
Someone to Look Up To

Despite a business environment that highlights the importance of executives’ ethical leadership, the individual antecedents of ethical leadership remain largely unknown. In this study, the authors propose that follower perceptions of ethical leadership depend on the executive leader’s cognitive moral development (CMD) and, more importantly, on the relationship between executive leader and follower CMD. In a sample of 143 leader–follower dyads, the authors find a direct positive relationship between leader CMD and perceptions of ethical leadership. Using polynomial regression, they find that ethical leadership is maximized when the leader’s CMD diverges from and is greater than the follower’s CMD. The authors explain these findings using a social learning theory framework. Leaders who are more advanced ethical reasoners relative to their followers are likely to stand out as salient ethical role models whose ethics-related communication and behavior attract followers’ attention. The authors discuss the research and practical implications of these findings.
Poised for Emerging Adulthood in Latin America: A Pleasure for the Privileged

ABSTRACT—The purpose of this article is to examine evidence regarding whether the period of the life course referred to as “emerging adulthood” exists, or is likely to develop, in Latin America. Central to this examination is recognition of differences in cultural practices and expectations related to adulthood across countries and differences in gender and socioeconomic factors (power, access to education, and degree of economic independence) within countries. Data from diverse sources suggest that some individuals in Latin America experience a period of emerging adulthood in which they are free to pursue different lifestyle options and delay marriage and parenthood. However, the data also suggest that these individuals are largely from wealthier families, urban areas, and more developed countries. For the many Latin American youth confronted with poverty, child marriage, and inadequate educational and occupational opportunities, emerging adulthood will probably unfold quite differently, if at all, even as they are increasingly exposed to new expectations about role exploration and self-development in their transition to adulthood.
The Sources and Maintenance of Professional Golfers' Self-Efficacy Beliefs

The purpose of this study was to explore the self-efficacy beliefs of male professional golfers (N = 12). Three themes emerged from the qualitative analysis of interview responses. First, enactive mastery experiences were the most powerful source of self-efficacy. Second, golfers maintained high self-efficacy over time by recalling prior success, strategically framing experiences, and enlisting supportive verbal persuasions from themselves and from others. Finally, self-efficacy influenced professional golfers’ thought patterns, outcome expectations, and emotional states. Findings support and refine the theoretical tenets of Bandura’s social cognitive theory.
Recent Applications of Liposomes in Ophthalmic Drug Delivery

Liposomal formulations were significantly explored over the last decade for the ophthalmic drug delivery applications. These formulations are mainly composed of phosphatidylcholine (PC) and other constituents such as cholesterol and lipid-conjugated hydrophilic polymers. Liposomes are biodegradable and biocompatible in nature. Current approaches for topical delivery of liposomes are focused on improving the corneal adhesion and permeation by incorporating various bioadhesive and penetration enhancing polymers. In the case of posterior segment disorders improvement in intravitreal half life and targeted drug delivery to the retina is achieved by liposomes. In this paper we have attempted to summarize the applications of liposomes in the field of ophthalmic drug delivery by citing numerous investigators over the last decade.