Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Agent-Based Techniques For National Infrastructure Simulation

Modern society is dependent upon its networks of infrastructure. These networks have grown in size and complexity to become interdependent, creating within them hidden vulnerabilities. The critical nature of these infrastructures has led to the establishment of the National Infrastructure Simulation and Analysis Center (NISAC) by the United States Government. The goal of NISAC is to provide the simulation capability to understand infrastructure interdependencies, detect vulnerabilities, and provide infrastructure planning and crises response assistance. This thesis examines recent techniques for simulation and analyzes their suitability for the national infrastructure simulation problem. Variable and agent-based simulation models are described and compared. The bottom-up approach of the agent-based model is found to be more suitable than the top-down approach of the variable-based model. Supercomputer and distributed, or grid computing solutions are explored. Both are found to be valid solutions and have complimentary strengths. Software architectures for implementation such as the traditional object-oriented approach and the web service model are examined. Solutions to meet NISAC objectives using the agent-based simulation model implemented with web services and a combination of hardware configurations are proposed. Thesis Supervisor: John R. Williams Title: Associate Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering
Molecular systematics of flyingfishes (Teleostei: Exocoetidae): evolution in the epipelagic zone

The flyingfish family Exocoetidae is a diverse group of marine fishes that are widespread and abundant in tropical and subtropical seas. Flyingfishes are epipelagic specialists that are easily distinguished by their enlarged fins, which are used for gliding leaps over the surface of the water. Although phylogenetic hypotheses have been proposed for flyingfish genera based on morphology, no comprehensive molecular studies have been performed. In the present study, we describe a species-level molecular phylogeny for the family Exocoetidae, based on data from the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene (1137 bp) and the nuclear RAG2 gene (882 bp). We find strong support for previous morphology-based phylogenetic hypotheses, as well as the monophyly of most currently accepted flyingfish genera. However, the most diverse genus Cheilopogon is not monophyletic. Using our novel flyingfish topology, we examine previously proposed hypotheses for the origin and evolution of gliding. The results support the progressive transition from two-wing to four-wing gliding. We also use phylogenetic approaches to test the macroecological effects of two life history characters (e.g. egg buoyancy and habitat) on species range size in flyingfishes. © 2010 The Linnean Society of London, Biological Journal of the Linnean Society, 2011, 102, 161–174.
5GINFIRE: Enabling an NFV Based Experimentation of Vertical Industries in the 5G Context

5G aims to provide a wireless access network that supports the requirements of different vertical markets such as automotive and smart cities. 5G oriented services use the Internet of Things (IoT) and will use the network programmability by integrating Software-defined Networking (NFV) and Network Function Virtualization (NFV). This context presents several multi-facet challenges to experiment with these services. 5GINFIRE is a 5G oriented experimental facility where different actors of the 5G ecosystem can experimentally contribute to 5G development and deployment. This work presents the 5GGINFIRE ecosystem, highlights some of its capabilities and some 5G ongoing experiments.
Automobility in transition?: A socio-technical analysis of sustainable transport

Private cars have become the dominant mode of passenger road transport in developed countries. This book examines the past evolution towards car-based forms of transport: problems associated with it, the success of past and current efforts to deal with problems of pollution, congestion, safety and degradation of public spaces and amenities, and also new developments, visions and strategies.
Investigation of some Heavy Metals in Citrullus vulgaris, Cucumis sativus and Soils obtained from Gardens being Irrigated with Wastewater in Maiduguri, Nigeria

metal levels ranged from 0.06 ± 0.01 µgg -1 Cd to 50.36 ± 0.96 µgg -1 Cr. In the Gongulon area, the results ranged from 0.14 ± 0.06 µgg -1 Cd to 53.75 ± 3.70 µgg -1 Cr. The metal levels in the soils ranged from 0.56 ± 0.05 µgg -1 Cd to 60.20 ± 0.70 µgg -1 Fe. There were significant differences (p < 0.05) between the levels of the metals in the vegetables obtained from the sample areas and those of the controls which were not irrigated with wastewater. The differences in the levels of the metals in vegetables obtained from the sample areas and controls could be attributed to the use of wastewater in irrigating the soils, excessive usage of fertilizers and of course, the environmental factors in the areas. The levels of some of the heavy metals were lower than the established critical limits causing toxicity in plants and were lower than the FAO/WHO maximum limits (ML) of heavy metals in vegetables. However, the levels of highly toxic heavy metals like Cd, Pb and Cr were above the reported permissible limits. Consumption of these as food may constitute possible health hazards to the consumers at the time of the study.
THE EFFECT OF SOIL WATER RETENTION CURVE HYSTERESIS ON THE STRENGTH OF UNSATURATED SOILS

A modification of an existing soil water retention curve (SWRC) equation is presented in this paper which takes into consideration the effects of the soil capillarity (parameter a) and air entry value (so). The reformulated equation then was incorporated into the research version of the LimitState:GEO software to perform two parametric studies on the bearing capacity of a strip footing placed on the surface and total passive earth pressure for a frictional wall of 1 m height. The parametric analyses were to study the effect of SWRC hysteresis on the strength of unsaturated soils through parameter a and air entry value (so). The numerical bearing capacity and the passive earth pressure results were compared with the experimental data and the derived Rankine equations which take into account the effect of capillary rise, respectively. The numerical results showed that the effect of SWRC hysteresis has significant influence on the strength for both parametric studies.
Persistence of the Complementary Relation between Earnings and Private Information

This paper examines whether, for some firms, the complementary relation between earnings information and private information is persistent. First, consistent with earnings information being a complement to the private information held by some investors, we show that more precise earnings are associated with a larger increase in information asymmetry at the time of the earnings announcement. Second, consistent with the complementary nature of earnings leading to persistent differences in information asymmetry for some firms, we find more precise earnings are associated with higher levels of information asymmetry over the subsequent year. As a result, for these firms, we show that when equity markets are imperfect, earnings information reduces expected returns by reducing market risk, but increases expected returns incremental to market risk by increasing information asymmetry.
Role of the dorsal attention network in distracter suppression based on features

ABSTRACT Selective attention allows us to prioritize the processing of relevant information and filter out irrelevant information. Human functional neuroimaging and lesion-based studies have highlighted the fronto-parietal dorsal attention network (DAN) as an important network in this process. In this study, we investigated the role of the DAN in distracter suppression by dynamically modifying the priority of visual information (target > high priority distracter > low priority distracter) based on features only. To this end, we collected fMRI data in 24 healthy subjects, who performed a feature-based variant of the sustained attention to response task. Participants had to select one or attend two stream(s) of overlapping digits that differed in color and respond to each digit in the task-relevant stream(s) except to a single non-target digit. Results showed higher DAN activity when a target was co-presented with a high versus low priority distracter. Furthermore, higher DAN activity was observed when selectively attending one (target + high/low priority distracter) versus simultaneously attending two (target + target) stream(s) of digits. In conclusion, our study highlights the contribution of the DAN in the feature-based suppression of task-irrelevant information.
Optical conductivity of a quantum gas

We measure the conductivity of neutral fermions in a cubic optical lattice. A uniform force is applied at a single frequency by periodic displacement of the trapping potential, and the current response is observed though the global displacement of atoms. In the linear response regime, the steady-state ratio between current and force gives the ac conductivity. The tensor properties of the conductivity reveal temporal and spatial symmetries of the sample. Similarly to "optical" conductivity commonly measured in materials with optical reflectivity, exact sum rules relate dynamical measurements to thermodynamic properties. We explore the effect of lattice depth, temperature, interaction strength, and atom number on conductivity. Using a relaxation-time approximation, we extract the transport time of current. Our work enables a direct comparison between cold-atom experiments and conductivity studies of materials.
Global structure and long-term variations of zonal mean temperature observed by TIMED/SABER

Received 14 February 2007; revised 9 August 2007; accepted 17 September 2007; published 25 December 2007. [1] In this paper, we present a method of extracting zonal mean temperature and tides from TIMED/SABER satellite and discuss the features of the zonal mean temperature. The global temperature structure is presented, and the mean variations at each latitude and altitude are decomposed into semiannual (SAO), annual (AO), and quasi-biennial (QBO) components. The SAO is strong in the tropical upper stratosphere, mesosphere, and lower thermosphere. The SAO phase (measured by the time of the maximum) is at the equinox at 85 km and at solstice at 75 km. The amplitude is large compared to the annual mean temperature structure, which leads to a mesospheric inversion layer (MIL) in the zonal mean temperature around the equator at equinox. The AO is most evident at middle latitudes and displays a clear hemispheric asymmetry at solstices. The QBO in temperature is strongest in the tropical lower stratosphere; its period there is 26.6 months. There are also weak QBO signals near the mesopause and throughout the middle atmosphere at midlatitudes. The analysis of longer-term variations of the zonal mean temperature, probably affected by the solar cycle but also containing any other trends, indicates that in most regions, the zonal mean temperature decreases during the period of 5 years and is positively correlated with the solar radiation. These results use version 1.06 of the SABER temperature data, which have some known biases in the vicinity of the mesopause.
Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) for rapid detection of L. monocytogenes in meat

There is a continued need to develop improved rapid methods for detection of foodborne pathogens. Rapid and sensitive methods for enumeration of Listeria monocytogenes are important for microbiological food safety testing purpose. The aim of this project was to evaluate a commercial loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) based system with bioluminescence, named as 3M™ Molecular Detection Assay (MDA), was validated for the detection of L. monocytogenes in food products with a standard GOST 32031-2012 method as reference. The results of this study revealed that a commercial LAMP-based method performed equally effective compared with method, showing from 94% to 100% specificity and sensitivity, respectively. The LAMP-based method was shown to be rapid and reliable detection technique for L. monocytogenes present at low numbers (10 CFU.g-1) on raw meat and meat products and can be applicable in meat industry. Thus, compared with the microbiological method based GOST 32031-2012, the LAMP assay is a relatively rapid and highly sensitive method for detecting L. monocytogenes and will facilitate the surveillance for contamination of L. monocytogenes in food. The 3M MDS result and culture-based detection (GOST 32031-2012) did not differ significantly (p >0.05) regarding the number of positive samples.
Correlation between extent of sinus surgery, radiographic disease, and postoperative outcomes.

BACKGROUND The extent of endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) required for optimal outcomes in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is undefined. We evaluated whether concordance between the extent of surgery and degree of radiographic disease influences postoperative outcomes. METHODS 247 CRS patients who underwent ESS were retrospectively assigned a concordance score reflecting the similarity between the extent of surgery and degree of radiographic disease. 0 points were assigned when sinusotomy was performed on a diseased sinus, or no sinusotomy was performed on a nondiseased sinus; plus 1 for sinusotomy on a nondiseased sinus; and -1 for a diseased sinus left unopened. The total possible score ranged from minus 10 to plus 10. Patients were divided into 5 subgroups according to variance from complete concordance. SNOT-22 scores and revision rates were compared at 6 and 24 months. RESULTS All five subgroups had similar preoperative SNOT-22 scores and improved at 6 months postoperatively. At 6 months postoperatively, the most conservatively operated and most extensively operated subgroups each achieved equivalent improvements in SNOT-22 as the completely concordant subgroup. At 24 months, the most extensively operated subgroup had a 12.5-point smaller improvement in SNOT-22 scores compared to the completely concordant subgroup. Multivariate analysis showed no association between concordance score and revision rate. CONCLUSIONS Symptom improvement and revision rates after ESS do not appear to correlate with the degree of concordance between extent of surgery and radiographic disease. More extensive surgery than indicated by CT confers neither greater symptomatic improvement nor long-term detriment.
TREATMENT IN POSTTRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER

This paper follows the preclinical work on the effects of stress on neurobiological and neuroendocrine systems and provides a comprehensive working model for understanding the pathophysiology of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Studies of the neurobiology of PTSD in clinical populations are reviewed. Specific brain areas that play an important role in a variety of types of memory are also preferentially affected by stress, including hippocampus, amygdala, medial prefrontal cortex, and cingulate. This review indicates the involvement of these brain systems in the stress response, and in learning and memory. Affected systems in the neural circuitry of PTSD are reviewed (hypothalamicpituitary-adrenal axis (HPA-axis), catecholaminergic and serotonergic systems, endogenous benzodiazepines, neuropeptides, hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis (HPT-axis), and neuro-immunological alterations) as well as changes found with structural and functional neuroimaging methods. Converging evidence has emphasized the role of early-life trauma in the development of PTSD and other trauma-related disorders. Current and new targets for systems that play a role in the neural circuitry of PTSD are discussed. This material provides a basis for understanding the psychopathology of stress-related disorders, in particular PTSD. Depression and Anxiety 16:14–38, 2002. & 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
AN ASSESSMENT OF THE INFLUENCE OF POPLAR CLONES HYBRID 275 AND ROBUSTA ON SOIL COVER BASED ON THE CHARACTERISTICS OF THEIR PLANT LITTER FALL

The aim of the study was to compare the effect of poplar clones Hybrid 275 and Robusta on soil cover, based on their litter fall. In 2000-2002 studies on plant litter fall and leaf decomposition were conducted at two 17-year-old poplar plantations in the Wierzbiczany forest district (Northern Poland). Both clones produced similar amounts of litter fall per tree of about 11 kg/year. Leaves were the main component of the litter fall (about 80% of total mass). Plant litter fall at the poplar plantations was rich in nutrients, lacking only phosphorus. Litter fall of the analysed poplar clones decomposed rapidly. Leaves of Hybrid 275 decomposed slightly faster than those of Robusta. Leaves of Robusta decomposed more slowly because of their lower content of nitrogen, higher content of lignin and their morphology - harder and waxier. Over the 20 month period more than 70% of the mass of Hybrid 275 leaves and 50% of the Robusta leaves decomposed. The absolute accumulation of nitrogen was observed in the decomposing leaves, along with a narrowing of the C/N ratio and a more rapid decrease in potassium content than the loss of mass. Based on the properties of litter fall, we can conclude that both poplar clones would have a favourable effect on soil cover.
Mobile Recruiting and Video Enhanced Job Advertisements: A Case Study Analysis within a German Job Portal

The proliferation of smartphones has increased significantly in recent years. Due to the availability of higher data rates, video content is increasingly being accessed via these devices. Due to changes in media usage behaviour, companies are currently faced with the challenge of adapting their recruitment activities to enable access via mobile devices and increasingly to integrate multimedia and dynamic content. In view of the above, this study examines user reactions to the enhancement of job ads with video content using a case study in a German job portal. The results of this study are promising and suggest that the integration of mobile video may be appropriate to increase interest in job advertisements. In addition, initial findings for the design and integration of such recruiting videos can be derived. The limits of panel surveys, however, also became apparent and more extensive research will be required in order to be able to make general recommendations. Keywords-Mobile Recruiting; Mobile Video; Job Advertisements; Video Enhanced Job Advertisements; Case Study.
Recent Advances Related to Special Physical Education and Sport

This article synthesizes advances related to special physical education and sport from 1975 to the present. Generic advances are presented within the categories of legislation, sport programs and activities, testing and assessment, certification, and instructional and curricular materials. Subsequently, additional advances particularly relevant to individuals with orthopedic, educational, auditory, or visual handicapping conditions are presented.
Supply chain management practices and their impact on performance among humanitarian organizations in Kenya

A study was conducted to establish the supply chain management practices and their impact on performance among humanitarian organizations in Kenya. The study had three objectives to achieve: To establish supply chain management practices among humanitarian organizations in Kenya; to determine the relationship between supply chain practices and performance in humanitarian supply chain management and to identify the supply chain management challenges faced by humanitarian organizations in Kenya. The researcher adopted a descriptive research design. The population of the study included the I 28 humanitarian organizations operating in Kenya. A census was conducted and data was collected through questionnaires from 21 humanitarian organizations. The data was analyzed and presented in tables, graphs and charts. A regression analysis was also conducted to establish the relationship between supply chain management practices and humanitarian supply chain performance. The study findings indicated that maintaining good supplier relation, effective and efficient internal operations, continuous improvement, flexible production processes, use of technology to speed up humanitarian work, inter-organization integrations and simplicity in internal operations are among the practices prevalent among humanitarian organizations in Kenya. The main challenges include customs and habits in the relief area, Lack of financial resources, inability to anticipate disaster, bulky materials to be transported, demand and supply uncertainty.
Obesity is associated with worse long-term outcomes in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy patients with acute myocardial infarction

Background: Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is associated with poor prognosis. In our previous study, it has been reported that patients with acute myocardial infarction and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy exhibited worse long-term outcomes than those with acute myocardial infarction without hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and those with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy without acute myocardial infarction. In this article, we aimed to assess the impact of body mass index on the long-term outcomes of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy patients with acute myocardial infarction. Methods: Seventy-eight consecutive patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and acute myocardial infarction were included. Obesity was defined as body mass index ⩾28 kg/m2 adapted to Chinese. The long-term endpoints were major adverse cardiac events and secondary endpoints, which included re-hospitalization, recurrent angina, thrombosis, bleeding, heart failure, and arrhythmias. Results: There were no differences in observed in-hospital mortality or 5-year mortality between the two groups of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and acute myocardial infarction patients divided by body mass index. However, significantly increased incidence of re-percutaneous coronary intervention and stroke was observed in the obese group (re-percutaneous coronary intervention: 0.0% vs. 21.4%, p = 0.007; stroke: 5.6% vs. 28.6%, p = 0.042). The 5-year outcomes of major adverse cardiac events were inferior in the obese group (log-rank p = 0.020). Conclusion: Acute myocardial infarction and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy patients who were obese exhibited worse long-term outcomes than those without obesity.
Glutamine Deprivation Induces PD-L1 Expression via Activation of EGFR/ERK/c-Jun Signaling in Renal Cancer

The programmed death-ligand 1/programmed death-1 (PD-L1/PD-1) pathway plays a pivotal role in the immune escape of tumors. Many tumor cells show “glutamine dependence. ” However, the relationship between glutamine metabolism and PD-L1 expression has not been reported. In this study, changes in PD-L1 expression in renal carcinoma cells were evaluated during glutamine deprivation and recovery. Although PD-L1 expression differed in two renal cancer cell lines, both cell lines upregulated PD-L1 during glutamine deprivation, and the upregulated PD-L1 was restored to normal after glutamine recovery. Mechanistically, glutamine deprivation resulted in activation of EGFR signaling via ERKs 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) and c-Jun. In addition, treatment of renal cancer cells with EGF also induced PD-L1 expression and ERK1/2 phosphorylation. Finally, inhibitors of EGFR, ERK, and c-Jun all inhibited phosphorylation of c-Jun and downregulated PD-L1 expression induced by glutamine deprivation. Taken together, the data suggest that glutamine regulates the expression of PD-L1 through the EGFR/ERK/c-Jun pathway in renal cancer. Implications: This study reveals glutamine deprivation induces PD-L1 expression via activation of EGFR/ERK/c-Jun signaling in renal cancer and provides novel markers for the treatment of renal cancer.