Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Analytical model for nanowire and nanotube transistors covering both dissipative and ballistic transport

We present an analytical model for silicon nanowire and carbon nanotube transistors that allows us to seamless cover the whole range of transport regimes from drift-diffusion to ballistic, taking into account the one-dimensional electron or hole gas in the channel. We propose an analytical description of the transition from drift-diffusion to ballistic transport based on the Buttiker approach to dissipative transport. We start from the derivation of an analytical expression for ballistic nanowire transistors and show that a generic transistor with finite scattering length can be described as a chain of elementary ballistic transistors. Then, we are able to compact the behavior of an arbitrary ballistic chain in a simple analytical model, suitable for circuit simulators. In the derivation of the model, we find a relation between the mobility and the mean free path that has deep consequences on the understanding of transport in nanoscale devices.
Design and testing of a high pressure gas target for fast neutron resonance radiography

A high pressure deuterium gas target has been designed to provide high-flux fast neutrons using the D(d,n)3He reaction for use as a neutron source. The deuterium gas cell holds 4 atm D2 gas at 298 K and is projected to tolerate a beam current of ~50 muA of 3.0 MeV deuterons for 8 hours of continuous use. The high-pressure gas cell is designed to provide a fast neutron flux on the order of 105 n/cm2-s at one meter. Measurements of gamma ray production from deuterium impingement have shown tungsten to generate the fewest gamma rays; the primary components of the gas target have been constructed out of tungsten to decrease the number of gamma rays. To accommodate the high gas pressure, thin foil tungsten windows have been structurally reinforced with a tungsten support allowing for more than 60% beam transmission while greatly increasing the structural reliability of the thin windows. Extensive simulation and experimental testing have demonstrated the heating tolerances of the gas target thin windows and have shown that the peak temperature of the thin foils does not exceed 600degC, while the edges of the foil do not exceed 100degC, well within the limits of the foil windows and the gas sealing structures
The links between Equity, Governance, Education and Peacebuilding in Kenya

Kenya has experienced recurrent intergroup conflicts primarily over political power and resources the nature of which have left it vulnerable to outbreaks of violence during elections. Security is also threatened by attacks from violent groups such as Al Shabaab, recruiting both externally and within Kenya’s borders. Education is both affected by and has a potential role in responding to these threats through addressing historically-embedded tensions and marginalization along ethnic and religious lines and reversing uneven development across regions.This research, involving two country case studies in Kenya and South Sudan, explores the relationship between education sector management, inequity, conflict and peacebuilding. Funded and commissioned by UNICEF’s Eastern and Southern Regional Office (ESARO) as part of their global Peacebuilding Education and Advocacy (PBEA) programme, the research in Kenya was led by Ulster University with support from colleagues in the University of Glasgow, Universitat de Barcelona, Strathmore Governance Centre, Nairobi, and the University of Nairobi.
Design of fully printable planar chipless RFID transponder with 35-bit data capacity

A fully printable, passive and planar chipless RFID transponder is presented. The chipless tag encodes data into the spectral signature using a multiresonator. Both amplitude and phase components of the spectral signature are used for data encoding. The tag comprises of a microstrip multiresonating circuit with 35 spiral resonators and two cross-polarized transmitting and receiving circular UWB monopol antennas. The chipless tag has potentials for low cost item tagging such as banknotes and secured documents.
Silencing of Cyclooxygenase-2 Inhibits Metastasis and Delays Tumor Onset of Poorly Differentiated Metastatic Breast Cancer Cells

Cyclooxygenases (COX) are rate-limiting enzymes involved in the conversion of PLA2-mobilized arachidonic acid into prostaglandins and thromboxanes. COX-2 is a key mediator of inflammation during both physiologic and pathologic responses to endogenous stimuli and infectious agents. Its overexpression has been detected in different cancers, including that of the breast. Using RNA interference, we have reduced the expression of COX-2 in the highly malignant breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231 below detectable levels in response to interleukin-1β or 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate treatment. Microarray analysis showed that COX-2 silencing resulted in the loss of mRNA expression of several oncogenic markers, such as matrix metalloproteinase-1, chemokine (C-X-C motif) receptor 4, and interleukin-11, which have been correlated with poor disease outcome, and in the up-regulation of antimetastatic transcripts, such as thrombospondin-1 and Epstein-Barr-Induced 3. Cells lacking COX-2 were less able to invade reconstituted extracellular matrix than parental cells in vitro. Consistent with these changes, loss of COX-2 resulted in the abolition or the significant delay of tumor onset when the cells were injected in the mammary fat pad of severe combined immunodeficient mice. Finally, silencing of COX-2 resulted in the inhibition of metastasis to the lungs of severe combined immunodeficient mice after intravenous injection. These data show that silencing of COX-2 abolishes the metastatic potential of MDA-MB-231 cells in vivo. (Mol Cancer Res 2007;5(5):435–42)
Fever in hospitalized HIV-infected patients in Western French Guiana: first think histoplasmosis

Summary In Western French Guiana, there was a dramatic increase in HIV prevalence between 1990 and 2000. The present study describes the causes of fever among HIV patients hospitalized in the medical ward of the only hospital in the western part of French Guiana. A retrospective descriptive study was conducted between 1 January 2008 and 30 June 2010 in the department of medicine of Saint Laurent du Maroni Hospital. The main characteristics of 67 patients having presented with fever in the first 48 hours of hospitalization were described. Among patients with CD4 <200/mm3 the main febrile opportunistic infection was disseminated histoplasmosis (41.1%). Among patients with CD4 counts <50/mm3 and fever without focal points 85.7% had disseminated histoplasmosis. Three patients died and all had disseminated histoplasmosis. Disseminated histoplasmosis is the most common febrile opportunistic infection in western French Guiana. Primary prophylaxis with itraconazole among immunocompromised patients seems warranted.
Three essays on productivity and risk, marketing decisions, and changes in well-being over time

This dissertation is composed of three essays; the first two examine the decisionmaking of potato producing households in Bolivia and the third examines well-being changes among Zimbabwe households. The first essay entitled “The role of risk mitigation in production efficiency: A case study of potato cultivation in the Bolivian Andes” estimates the costs of self-managing environmental risk through activity and environmental diversification. Risk management has the potential to reduce income variability but at the cost of increasing production inefficiency, which we measure employing a stochastic production frontier. Among variables capturing environmental diversification, discontinuity between fields has the most detrimental effect on production efficiency. Activity diversification, measured by the ratio of potato to total crop revenue, has a stronger impact on inefficiency and yield losses than any of the environmental diversification variables. The second essay entitled “Determinants of market participation decisions and marketing choices in Bolivia” examines three decisions related to potato market participation: market entry, volume sold, and market choice. The first two are analyzed using a Heckman selection model. Results indicate that isolation, measured by population density and distance to markets, negatively impacts market entry. The most important determinant of quantity sold is land holding. Market choices are judged according to second-order stochastic dominance (SOSD). Market choices meeting the SOSD criterion
Clinical Outcomes Associated With a Collaborative Pharmacist-Endocrinologist Diabetes Intense Medical Management “Tune Up” Clinic in Complex Patients

Background: No previous studies exist examining the impact of a short-term pharmacist-endocrinologist collaborative practice model on glycemic control in complex patients. Objective: Evaluate outcomes associated with a PharmD-Endocrinologist Diabetes Intense Medical Management (DIMM) “tune up” clinic for complex patients. Methods: A retrospective cohort study of 99 patients referred to DIMM clinic versus a comparator group of 56 primary care provider (PCP) patients meeting the same criteria (adult type 2 diabetes patients, glycosylated hemoglobin [A1C] ≥ 8%, follow-up visit within 6 months) in a Veterans Affairs Medical Center. DIMM clinic used a short-term model that coupled personalized clinical care with real-time, patient-specific diabetes education during two to four 60-minute visits over 6 months. PCP patients received usual care. Primary outcome was mean A1C change after 6 months. Secondary measures included fasting blood glucose, lipids, blood pressure, weight, body mass index, and percentage of patients meeting goals. Results: Patients in each group had an average of 8 and were taking 12 to 14 medications daily. Mean A1C (%) improvement in DIMM group was significantly greater at 6 months (−2.4 [SD = 2.1] vs −0.8 [SD = 1.7]; P < 0.001), than PCP group. Percentage meeting A1C goal levels (<7%, <8%, and <9%) was significantly greater at 3 and 6 months compared with baseline in the DIMM group (P < 0.001) versus (only <8%) at 3 and 6 months compared with baseline in PCP group. Conclusions: The DIMM clinic “tune up” model demonstrates a successful collaborative practice which helped complex diabetes patients achieve glycemic control in a 6-month period.
Male homosexuality: nature or culture?

INTRODUCTION Debate continues on whether or not male homosexuality (MH) is a result of biological or cultural factors. The debate persists despite the fact that these two sides have different abilities to create a scientific environment to support their cause. Biological theorists produced evidence, however, that these are not always robust. On the other hand, social theorists, without direct evidence confirming their positions, criticize, with good argument, methods and results of the other side. The aim of this Controversy is to understand the reasons of both perspectives. METHODS Two scientists (R.B. and A.C.C.) with expertise in the area of biology of MH were asked to contribute their opinions. The nurture position is discussed by a third expert in sexology (J.B.). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Expert opinion supported by the critical review of the currently available literature. RESULT The role of the Controversy's editor (E.A.J.) is to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of both sides. The two experts of the biological issue answer with their data to the questions: “Is male homosexuality partly explainable by immunology? ” and “How is male homosexuality a Darwinian paradox? ”, respectively. Genetic and immunological factors, birth order, and fertility of relatives are largely discussed. Finally, the expert sustaining the idea that culture and experiences are important determining factors in sexual orientation used a psychosocial and holistic perspective to explain his position. CONCLUSIONS The JSM's readers should recognize that there are several biological factors in MH. However, these findings do not seem to be able to explain all cases of homosexuality. Some others may be due to particular environmental factors. The issue is complicated and multifactorial, suggesting that further research should be undertaken to produce the final answer to the question raised in this Controversy section.
Modelling the relationship between future energy intraday volatility and trading volume with wavelet

ABSTRACT Although the energy and stock markets are both characterized by volatility and liquidity, and there has been substantial research to explore the relationship between volatility and trading volume (TV) in stock markets, few researchers have investigated this relationship in energy markets. Moreover, studies that have explored this association within energy markets did not describe its nature or impetus. To redress this oversight, we investigate this relationship using intraday data from the oil and gas markets – the most liquid energy markets in the world. In this way, the current article extends the previous studies through the use of a frequency approach to propose an original analysis of the relationship between volume and volatility. More specifically, we employ a continuous wavelet transform to identify the lead–lag phase between volatility and volume. This framework supplants usual time series modelling, as it uses a measure of coherence for different frequencies and time-scales to capture further changes and time variation in the volume–volatility relationship. Our results provide supportive evidence for the well-known positive relationship between realized volatility and TV, thereby supporting the mixture distribution hypothesis. In particular, our results show that volume causes volatility only during ‘turbulent times’, while volatility causes volume during ‘good times’. Furthermore, there is no relationship between volume and volatility in the long term, due to the absence of noise traders and liquidity traders in the long run. These findings are helpful for investors and policymakers as they contribute to better forecast the TV and price volatility during turbulent and calm periods and over several investment horizons.
Immunoglobulin A Anti-tissue Transglutaminase Antibody Deposits in the Small Intestinal Mucosa of Children With No Villous Atrophy

Objectives: Anti-tissue transglutaminase (anti-TG2) immunoglobulin A (IgA) autoantibodies are detectable in the serum of most patients with untreated celiac disease (CD). Their deposits in the intestine of patients with CD with severe enteropathy are considered specific for this condition. The histological spectrum of CD includes cases with normal villous architecture. The aim of this study was to look for anti-TG2 IgA deposits in the intestine of children with normal villous architecture and to relate them with other markers of gluten sensitivity. Patients and Methods: A total of 57 children with normal duodenal villous architecture and markers of gluten sensitivity were considered. Of those, 39 showed positive serum anti-endomysium antibodies and/or high levels of anti-TG2 antibodies (group 1), and 18 were seronegative with only a greater density of γδ intraepithelial lymphocytes (group 2). Thirty-four children with no markers of gluten sensitivity and a normal mucosa represented the control group (group 3). The duodenal sections of all patients were investigated for deposited anti-TG2 IgA by double immunofluorescence. Human lymphocyte antigen molecular typing was performed. Results: In group 1 and in group 2, 33 of 39 children (85%) and 12 of 18 children (66%) showed subepithelial anti-TG2 IgA intestinal deposits, respectively. Only in 3 of 34 (8.8%) children with no markers of gluten sensitivity were anti-TG2 IgA deposits noted. Conclusions: A subgroup of children with no serum CD-associated autoantibodies, but greater density of γδ intraepithelial lymphocytes, shows a clear anti-TG2 IgA deposition in the duodenal mucosa. These children must be investigated further for possible gluten sensitivity.
PHYTOCHROME INTERACTING FACTORS mediate metabolic control of the circadian system in Arabidopsis.

The circadian (c. 24 h) system has a central role in regulating the timing and coordination of photosynthesis, and in turn photosynthesis and photosynthetic products which are controlled by the circadian clock feedback to affect the circadian oscillator that generates rhythms. However, little is known about the mechanism(s) by which this feedback occurs. One group of likely candidates for signal transduction to the circadian clock are the PHYTOCHROME INTERACTING FACTOR (PIF) family of transcription factors which have been shown to be involved in numerous signaling pathways in Arabidopsis. Yet despite evidence that some PIF genes are under circadian control and bind promoter motifs present in circadian genes, until now PIFs have not been shown to affect the circadian system. Using a range of techniques, we have examined how circadian rhythms are affected in higher order pif mutants and the mechanisms by which PIFs regulate signaling to the circadian clock. We show that PIFs mediate metabolic signals to the circadian oscillator and that sucrose directly affects PIF binding to the promoters of key circadian oscillator genes in vivo that may entrain the oscillator. Our results provide a basis for understanding the mechanism for metabolic signaling to the circadian system in Arabidopsis.
Water-stable organic transistors and their application in chemical and biological sensors

The development of low-cost, reliable sensors will rely on devices capable of converting an analyte binding event to an easily read electrical signal. Organic thin-film transistors (OTFTs) are ideal for inexpensive, single-use chemical or biological sensors because of their compatibility with flexible, large-area substrates, simple processing, and highly tunable active layer materials. We have fabricated low-operating voltage OTFTs with a cross-linked polymer gate dielectric, which display stable operation under aqueous conditions over >104 electrical cycles using the p-channel semiconductor 5,5′-bis-(7-dodecyl-9H-fluoren-2-yl)-2,2′-bithiophene (DDFTTF). OTFT sensors were demonstrated in aqueous solutions with concentrations as low as parts per billion for trinitrobenzene, methylphosphonic acid, cysteine, and glucose. This work demonstrates of reliable OTFT operation in aqueous media, hence opening new possibilities of chemical and biological sensing with OTFTs.
Vitamin d deficiency and its association with thyroid disease.

OBJECTIVES Vitamin D deficiency is a global health problem, its role as an immune modulator has been recently emphasized. The evidence is increasingly pointing towards vitamin D significant role in reducing the incidence of autoimmune diseases. However, at this time the research on its role in autoimmune and thyroid disease is not conclusive. We aimed to examine the relationship between hypothyroidism and vitamin D deficiency and to clarify the relation between serum calcium levels with hypothyroid disease. SUBJECTS AND METHODS Serum vitamin D (25-OH) levels were measured in 30 patients with hypothyroidism and 30 healthy subjects, utilizing the spectrophotometric method. Vitamin D deficiency was designated at levels lower than 20 ng/ml. Thyroid hormones (TSH, T3 and T4) and calcium levels were evaluated in all participants. RESULTS Serum 25(OH) vit D was significantly lower in hypothyroid patients than in controls (t=-11.128, P =0.000). Its level was insignificantly decreased in females than male patients (t=- 1.32, P >0.05). Moreover, serum calcium levels recorded a significant decrease in hypothyroid patients when compared to controls (t= -5.69, P = 0.000). CONCLUSION Our results indicated that patients with hypothyroidism suffered from hypovitaminosis D with hypocalcaemia that is significantly associated with the degree and severity of the hypothyroidism. That encourages the advisability of vit D supplementation and recommends the screening for Vitamin D deficiency and serum calcium levels for all hypothyroid patients.
Influence of dimensional incentives on voters’ turnout in 2014 and 2015 gubernatorial elections in Southwestern, Nigeria

Incentives in exchange for votes during elections have become a culture in Nigeria. Past studies emphasized on monetary incentives while no known studies have been carried out on the new dimension of incentives to influence voters' turnout adopted in 2014 and 2015 gubernatorial elections in Nigeria. This paper attempts to uncover what is behind people’s voting behaviour in gubernatorial elections (2014 and 2015) in Southwestern, Nigeria using questionnaire administered to 1266 respondents and 76 respondents were interviewed. Results showed that parties' candidates distributed customized goods (69.3%), credit cards and branded goods collected in kangaroo ceremonies and social media (58.2%) to entice voters. Financial aids were given to rural women prior and during elections by traditional institutions and security agents. The paper concludes that candidates and collaborators who used any forms of incentives to entice voters or influence the outcome of elections deserve prosecution. Key words : Incentives, Dimensional, Voters' turnout, Gubernatorial elections, Southwestern
Efficient Detection for Malicious and Random Errors in Additive Encrypted Computation

Although data confidentiality is the primary security objective in additive encrypted computation applications, such as the aggregation of encrypted votes in electronic elections, ensuring the trustworthiness of data is equally important. And yet, integrity protections are generally orthogonal to additive homomorphic encryption, which enables efficient encrypted computation, due to the inherent malleability of homomorphic ciphertexts. Since additive homomorphic schemes are founded on modular arithmetic, our framework extends residue numbering to support fast modular reductions and homomorphic syndromes for detecting random errors inside homomorphic ALUs and data memories. In addition, our methodology detects malicious modifications of memory data, using keyed syndromes and block cipher-based integrity trees, which allow preserving the homomorphism of ALU operations, while enforcing non-malleability of memory data. Compared to traditional memory integrity protections, our tree-based syndrome generation and updating is parallelizable for increased efficiency, while requiring a small Trusted Computing Base for secret key storage and block cipher operations. Our evaluation shows more than 99.999 percent detection rate for random ALUs errors, as well as 100 percent detection rate of single bit-flips and clustered multiple bit upsets, for a runtime overhead between 1.2 and 5.5 percent, and a small area penalty.