Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Monolithic optoelectronic switch based on the integration of a GaAs/AlGaAs heterojunction bipolar transistor and a GaAs vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser

We describe the design and the first experimental demonstration of a monolithic integrated optoelectronic switch combining a GaAs/AlGaAs heterojunction bipolar transistor (HBT) with a vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL). The switch has high current gain (500-700), low power dissipation (27 and 55 mW DC at optical output levels of 0.4 and 1.2 mW, respectively), and a high optical-to-electrical conversion efficiency (150 W/A) under DC bias conditions, thus providing a high-performance electrical-to-optical interface for high-speed optical interconnections. <<ETX>>
Bioabsorbable Versus Metal Screw in the Fixation of Tibial Tubercle Transfer: A Cadaveric Biomechanical Study

Background: In tibial tubercle transfer (TTT) procedures, the osteotomized and transferred tibial tubercle is usually fixed into the host bone using metal screws. Purpose: To compare the strength of fixation provided by a single bioabsorbable screw versus a metal screw for TTT. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: Twenty-two pairs of human cadaveric tibiae were used to compare the fixation strength of a single 4.5-mm bicortical bioabsorbable or metal screw for TTT. In our 2-phase biomechanical testing protocol, the specimens were first subjected to a cyclic-loading test (1500 loading cycles between 50 and 300 N at 0.5 Hz frequency), after which they were loaded to failure (single-cycle load-to-failure test). To control for possible differences in bone quality, volumetric bone mineral density was determined using peripheral quantitative computed tomography. Results: No significant displacement differences were observed between the 2 groups for the cyclic-loading test. In the subsequent single-cycle load-to-failure test, the mean yield load was 566 ± 234 N in the bioabsorbable screw group and 984 ± 630 N in the metal screw group (P = .002). The failure mode of bioabsorbable screws was breakage and/or bending, and that of metal screws was bending and/or pull-out. Bone density was similar in the 2 groups. Conclusion: A metal screw seems to provide greater fixation strength than a biodegradable screw in the TTT of a human cadaveric knee. However, considering the maximum quadriceps pull in vivo, the strength of fixation provided by a biodegradable screw seems clinically sufficient. Clinical Relevance: Bioabsorbable screws, particularly if used in duplicate, could provide a viable option for metal screws in TTT fixation.
Foreign Direct Investments Induced Innovation? A Case Study − Macedonia

Abstract This paper, while analysing innovation in Southeast Europe, and in particular the case study of Macedonia, focuses on the basic ties between foreign direct investments and innovation. Foreign direct investment is usually defined as dominant or controlling ownership of a company in one country (the host country), by an entity based in another country. The concept of industry-government- university relationships interprets the change from a dominating industry-government duo in the ‘industrial society’ to a growing triadic relationship between industry-government-university in the ‘knowledge society’. From the beginning of the transition process, foreign direct investments have been a priority, an essential pillar that moves the society forward towards a developed market economy. In addition, as the influx of capital increases it inevitably brings with it increased innovation. Hence we examine the possibility that these two indicators have a positive and upward ascent and facilitate the development of the economy.
Chinese Travel Behavior in Response to Disastrous Events: The Case of the Japan Earthquake

ABSTRACT In a bid to identify Chinese travelers that can be relied upon in the event of a significant disaster this paper examines the travel behavior of the Chinese tourism market following the 2011 Japan earthquake. The post-disaster travel behavior of 535 Chinese travelers who had existing plans to travel to Japan at the time of the earthquake is explored to reveal the characteristics of Chinese travelers who would still travel under such circumstances. This paper also identifies the characteristics and concerns of those who canceled their travel indefinitely. Relationships are explored between travel decision and variables such as past travel experience, trip purpose, image perception and demographic background in order to identify dependable tourist markets that can be relied on in the wake of a disaster. Practical implications for destination marketers reliant on this market and seeking to encourage visitation post-disaster are provided.
Expression of proteasome subunit isoforms during spermatogenesis in Drosophila melanogaster

In this study, we sought to identify and characterize all the proteasome genes of Drosophila melanogaster. Earlier work led to the identification of two genes encoding α4‐type 20S proteasome subunit isoforms that are expressed exclusively in the male germline. Here we extend these results and show that six of the 20S proteasome subunits, and four of the 19S regulatory cap subunits, have gene duplications encoding male‐specific isoforms. More detailed analyses of two of these male‐specific subunits (Prosα3T and Prosα6T), using GFP‐tagged reporter transgenes, revealed that they are predominantly localized to the nucleus at later stages of spermatogenesis and are present there in mature, motile sperm. These results suggest a possible role of a ‘spermatogenesis‐specific’ proteasome in sperm differentiation and/or function.
Reaction network generation for naphtha hydroprocessing

A reaction network for acid-catalyzed hydrocarbon hydroprocessing in the C2 to C12 range has been generated, as part of a larger work to model a naphtha hydrocraking unit at the elementary step level. The structure of the feedstock molecules is stored as Boolean matrixes, facilitating their mathematical manipulation according to the rules of each elementary reaction step during the reaction network generation. Detailed algorithms and examples are shown for every elementary reaction step. Acyclic and cyclic species are considered, up to two fused aromatic, olefinic or naphthenic rings. Besides conventional elementary reactions, algorithms for aromatic isomerization methyl and ethyl migration and dealkylation were developed. It must be highlighted that the complexity of the reaction network should be weighed against the available chromatographic data resolution. Therefore, mathematical restrictions might be added to the generated structures, such as maximum number of ramifications or maximum molecule size within a group of isomers. A sensitivity analysis of these restrictions was carried out, to determine their impact on the dimension of the generated reaction network.
Polymorphisms of genes encoding components of the sympathetic nervous system but not the renin–angiotensin system as risk factors for orthostatic hypotension

Objective The genetic background of orthostatic hypotension, an important risk factor for future cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, was investigated. Design and methods The study subjects comprised 415 community-dwelling individuals, who were free from any cardiovascular complications, aged 50 years or older (mean age 70.5 ± 9 years). Basal systolic blood pressure (SBP) was measured twice in supine posture after resting for more than 10 min. The orthostatic change in SBP was determined at 1 min and 3 min after standing up. The maximum change in SBP after standing was determined. Orthostatic hypotension was defined as a decline in SBP greater than 20 mmHg. The polymorphisms of genes encoding components of the renin–angiotensin system and sympathetic nervous system, which play pivotal roles in postural change in blood pressure regulation, were determined. Results There were no significant associations between the maximum change in SBP, the prevalence of orthostatic hypotension and gene polymorphisms of angiotensin-converting enzyme I/D, angiotensinogen M235T and angiotensin II type 1 receptor A1166C. On the contrary, polymorphism of the Gs protein α-subunit (GNAS1) T131C was significantly associated with the maximum change in SBP after standing [1.9 ± 16 versus −3.6 ± 16 mmHg (TT + TC versus CC), P = 0.008]. The prevalence of orthostatic hypotension was significantly different among GNAS1 genotypes (chi squared = 10.12, P = 0.011) and G-protein β3 subunit (GNB3) genotypes (chi squared = 6.12, P = 0.020). Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that both GNAS1 CC genotype [odds ratio (OR) = 2.79, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.35–5.79, P = 0.006] and GNB3 C allele (OR = 1.78, 95% CI 1.06–3.00, P = 0.030) were independent risks for orthostatic hypotension. Conclusions These findings indicate that genes encoding sympathetic nervous components could be involved in the predisposition for orthostatic hypotension.
Government as usual: politics and law as structural couples governing counter-terrorism in Australia

This article explores the dynamic relationship between law and politics by focusing on Australia's recent legislative responses to terrorism. We resist the temptation to criticise counter-terrorism actions taken since 9/11 that show incompetence, violations of civil liberties or discriminatory power-wielding to justify recommending changes. Instead, this article argues that although Australia's legislative response to terrorism with its 50 or more new laws appears coincidental, exceptional and inflated, the response typically reveals politics’ and law's ambiguous, contingent and complex evolution. We explore how law and politics as social systems evolve following ‘irritations’ or catalysts from their environments, which are managed via structural coupling processes. In complex ways, amendments to these systems’ communications on counter-terrorism paradoxically contribute to more laws, more governing and oversight, more fear and anxiety, and more opportunities for an abuse of power that commentators strive to delimit. Identifying communications, that is, society's self-descriptions via form or differences enables us to shift attention in the counter-terrorism debates from the vagaries of politicians’ talk, positions, actions and outcomes to how problems unfold and systems evolve.
Examining the prevalence of non-criteria anti-phospholipid antibodies in patients with anti-phospholipid syndrome: a systematic review.

OBJECTIVE To systematically review and establish the prevalence of antibody positivity in assays not currently included in the APS classification criteria to detect antibodies directed against other phospholipids (PLs), PL binding proteins, coagulation factors and a mechanistic test for resistance of Annexin A5 (AnxA5) anticoagulant activity in APS and control populations. METHODS We searched PubMed and EMBASE using the key words APS, antiphospholipid antibodies, non-criteria, new assays, IgA anticardiolipin antibodies, lupus anticoagulant, anti-Domain I, IgA anti-β2-glycoprotein I antibodies, antiphosphatidylserine, anti-phosphatidylethanolamine, anti-phosphatidic acid, antiprothrombin, antiphosphatidylserine-prothtombin, anti-vimentin/cardiolipin complex and Annexin A5 resistance. Studies that met inclusion criteria to describe prevalence of non-criteria aPLs in APS patients (n > 10), disease and healthy control subjects were systematically examined. RESULTS We selected 16 retrospective studies of 1404 APS patients, 1839 disease control and 797 healthy controls. The highest prevalence of non-criteria aPLs in the largest number of patients with APS was found in IgA anti-β2GPI studies (129/229, 56.3%), AnxA5R (87/163, 53.4%) and IgG anti-Domain I (241/548, 44.0%). CONCLUSION Our finding of a significantly high prevalence of all non-criteria aPLs studied in patients with APS compared with controls was tempered by wide variation in sample size, retrospective collection, assay methodology and different determination of positivity. Therefore, prospective studies of sufficient size and appropriate methodology are required to evaluate the significance of these assays and their utility in the management of patients with APS.
Epitope mapping of B-cell determinants on the 15-kilodalton lipoprotein of Treponema pallidum (Tpp15) with synthetic peptides

The antigenicity of the 15-kDa lipoprotein of Treponema pallidum (Tpp15 or TpN15) was comprehensively evaluated in epitope-scanning studies with overlapping deca- and octapeptides and polygonal rabbit and human infant immunoglobulins (Igs) and antisera. This approach enabled us to identify potentially important regions and to determine the optimal dilutions of Igs or antisera for use in further studies. IgM and IgG from both species were capable of recognizing multiple, continuous epitopes. A total of 13 peptides, principally clustered in the central regions of the protein, were recognized by all syphilitic sera and Ig fractions. On the basis of window analyses, frequency profiles, and alanine substitution studies, five heptapeptides were selected for mimetic studies. Two of these five immunodominant, continuous epitopes initially appeared to be species specific; however, antisera elicited against mimetics of all five epitopes were polyspecific, recognizing similar motifs on several other treponemal proteins, including those of avirulent organisms. The only mimetic which yielded positive reactions with infant IgM and syphilitic sera in the absence of cross-reactions with rabbit antisera to avirulent treponemes was the variant of the VMYASSG motif. These findings are relevant to the development of simple, inexpensive assays for the serodiagnosis of active syphilis.
Towards a More Competitive PPP Procurement Market: A Game-Theoretical Analysis

Due to the extensive timeframes and the transfer of risk towards the preferred special purpose vehicle, there is more value at stake in public-private partnership projects in relation to traditional public procurement projects. The contractual complexity and the high bidding cost are open sesames for inexperienced contractors to refrain from the opportunity. Governments are currently seeking for mechanisms to increase competition, like reimbursing losing bidders for their research efforts. This study encompasses the bidding framework in a game-theoretical fashion while taking discrepancies in the bidders’ experience levels into account. A contractor’s strategy is composed of the pre-tender investment willingness and the targeted mark-up. Approximation algorithms to derive the Nash equilibrium are proposed. Furthermore, it is investigated how governmental policies may modify the bidding equilibrium. The theoretical findings are triangulated by a qualitative discussion with practitioners from the PPP field. The dynamics reveal the importance of the controllable and uncontrollable project risk that could result in a reluctance for the inexperienced player and a constriction of the market. This occurrence of an oligopolistic situation might be overcome through the introduction of government compensation policies despite the fact that these could come at a fair price.
Age-Related Changes in Female Mosquito Carbon Dioxide Detection

Abstract Mosquitoes rely on carbon dioxide (CO2) as a primary component in host-seeking behavior. CO2 is detected by specialized receptor neurons in basiconic sensilla located on the maxillary palps of the mosquito. The sensitivity and specificity of these sensors can be studied using single-cell electrophysiological methods. Such electrophysiological data reveal that certain aspects of the sensitivity of these sensors change during the maturation of adult female Aedes aegypti (L.) (Diptera: Culicidae). Although the mean threshold of response is similar between the ages examined, the overall sensitivity and temporal pattern of discharge of the neurons vary with age. Older females, which are likely to engage in host-seeking behavior, are more responsive to CO2 than very young females that are unlikely to seek hosts. Male mosquitoes did not show a similar pronounced pattern of sensitivity. The implications of such differences are discussed with respect to behavior.
Does she have a say? The impact of livestock transfer and associated training on women's empowerment: Evidence from Zambia

This study assesses the impact of livestock transfer and associated training on women’s empowerment in Zambia. Women’s empowerment is measured with women’s ‘decision making power’ on different farm household activities and resources. Using a two-period panel data from a field experiment in the Copperbelt Province, first, we demonstrate empirically that women’s empowerment serves as a key driver of economic wellbeing; it has positive effects on consumption expenditures and dietary diversity. We then use the difference-in-difference method with household level fixed effects and find a significant positive impact of the intervention on both women and men’s empowerment measures. While men and women from ‘treated’ households made most household decisions jointly, the intervention had larger impact on women’s decision making power. We demonstrate that the improvement in men and women’s decision making power largely comes from expansion in joint decisions. In particular, the intervention helped increase the proportion of joint decisions by 16% in all household activities considered and by 21% in decision spheres related to the transferred assets. The finding is consistent with the prediction of the Nash bargaining model because transferring economic resources to women members leads to pareto optimality in resource allocation only through co-operation between men and women.
Differences in CD4 dependence for infectivity of laboratory-adapted and primary patient isolates of human immunodeficiency virus type 1

CD4 is known to be an important receptor for human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection of T lymphocytes and macrophages. However, the limiting steps in CD4-dependent HIV-1 infections in vivo and in vitro are poorly understood. To address this issue, we produced a panel of HeLa-CD4 cell clones that express widely different amounts of CD4 and quantitatively analyzed their infection by laboratory-adapted and primary patient HIV-1 isolates. For all HIV-1 isolates, adsorption from the medium onto HeLa-CD4 cells was inefficient and appeared to be limiting for infection in the conditions of our assays. Adsorption of HIV-1 onto CD4-positive peripheral blood mononuclear cells was also inefficient. Moreover, there was a striking difference between laboratory-adapted and primary T-cell-tropic HIV-1 isolates in the infectivity titers detected on different HeLa-CD4 cells. Laboratory-adapted HIV-1 isolates infected all HeLa-CD4 cell clones with equal efficiencies regardless of the levels of CD4, whereas primary HIV-1 isolates infected these clones in direct proportion to cellular CD4 expression. Our interpretation is that for laboratory-adapted isolates, a barrier step that preceeds CD4 encounter was limiting and the subsequent CD4-dependent virus capture process was highly efficient, even at very low cell surface concentrations. In contrast, for primary HIV-1 isolates, the CD4-dependent steps appeared to be much less efficient. We conclude that primary isolates of HIV-1 infect inefficiently following contact with surfaces of CD4-positive cells, and we propose that this confers a selective disadvantage during passage in rapidly dividing leukemia cell lines. Conversely, in vivo selective pressure appears to favor HIV-1 strains that require large amounts of CD4 for infection.
Method for Selecting Populations of Rat Articular Chondrocytes That Exhibit Distinct Growth and Metabolic Characteristics, and Their Responses to Growth Factors, PMA and Vitamin D3

Chondrocytes were released from articular cartilage fragments of 6-week-old Wistar rats by a 2-hour treatment with bacterial collagenase. The cells from one animal were seeded in a 25-cm2 culture flask at a density of 105 cells/cm2. After 1 h, the flask was gently shaken and the medium, containing nonadherent cells, was transferred to a new flask. The attached cells were incubated with 5 ml of fresh medium. This procedure was repeated after 3, 24, 48 and 96 h. Resulting cell populations were then analyzed. The earlier cells attached, the more rapidly they proliferated, and the less collagen and proteoglycan (PG) they produced. The cells that attached after 24 h grew much more slowly, piled up in many areas, exhibited strong alkaline phosphatase activity and calcified extracellular matrix (ECM). Differences in deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and protein/PG synthesis were also observed when these cell populations were challenged with growth factors and 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA). Pretreatment of cells for 2 h with PMA strongly enhanced DNA and PG synthesis only in cultures containing insulin-like growth factor-1. Nonselected rat articular chondrocytes (AC) subcultured at least four times as monolayers still expressed mRNA specific for aggrecan and type II collagen, suggesting conservation of the chondrogenic phenotype. In conclusion, AC of young individuals seem to be heterogeneous with respect to their capacity to proliferate and synthesize ECM. By selecting and expanding in vitro the appropriate cell population, this method could be potentially useful for studies aimed at repairing damaged cartilage.
Attention and Para‐Attentional Processing. Event‐Related Brain Potentials as Tests of a Model

In 1972 when we began to analyze the vast amount of material from the laboratories of physiological psychologists, we had only a vague conceptualization of what a model of attention might look like. We began where everyone else had, with the view that everything had something to do with "arousal" but with Lacey's (1967) warning in mind that all of the dependent variables might not actually be measuring aspects of the same process. With this warning in mind, we were forced by the data to organize them into a three-systems mode. Since the first publication of this model in 1975, we have found increasing amounts of evidence to support and extend it. This evidence is briefly reviewed in the present paper in terms of the techniques employed in various types of investigation. Further, the current review of data has made it possible to specify the para-attentional substrate (the extrinsic lemniscal primary projection systems) upon which the three systems described in the earlier model operate. The earlier model was based on psychophysiological, neurobehavioral and neurochemical analyses while the current specification results from the results of recordings of event-related brain electrical responses. The conclusions derived from these results can be summarized as follows: First. It has become possible to distinguish controlled attention from the para-attentional pre- and post-attentive automatic processes upon which controls operate. Second. The pre- and post-attentive processes appear to be coordinate with activity in the extrinsic lemniscal primary sensory projection systems. Processing in these systems is reflected in the early components of event-related brain electrical potentials. These extrinsic systems are, however, not just throughputs for further processing. Rather, they are sensitive to the history of reinforcement which the subject has experienced. The concept of a limited channel capacity must, therefore, be modified to encompass this ability of organisms to improve, through practice, their competence to process a great deal of information in parallel. Competence, not capacity, limits central processing span. Third. A set of intrinsic extralemniscal processing systems has been identified to operate via a tecto-tegmental pathway to the reticular nucleus of the thalamus. The later components (N2P3, etc.) of event-related potentials have been shown to reflect processing in these systems and those that control them. Activity in these systems has been related to targeted conscious awareness. (ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)