cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Applying general induction methods to the card game eleusis

Research was undertaken with the goal of applying general universally-applicable induction methods to complex real-world problems. The goal was only partially met. The chosen domain—the card game Eleusis—was still somewhat artificial, and the universally-applicable induction methods were found to be lacking in important ways. However, the resulting Eleusis program does show that by using knowledge-based data interpretation and rule evaluation techniques and model-fitting induction techniques, general induction methods can be used to solve complex problems.
Breakthrough Stroke During Rivaroxaban Therapy in a Patient with Non-Valvular Atrial Fibrillation

Abstract Abstract 4370 Introduction. Rivaroxaban is the first orally active direct factor Xa inhibitor FDA approved for anticoagulation in non-valvular atrial fibrillation. Rivaroxaban has several remarkable aspects-it has less incidence of fatal bleeding and intracranial hemorrhage compared to Warfarin, excellent pharmacodynamic profile as an oral agent (high bioavailability (80–100%) and short half-life (7 to 11 hours), and it is reversible- which highlights Rivaroxaban as a promising future anticoagulant. However, 1.71% of Rivaroxaban arm in ROCKET-AF (New Eng J Med 2011;365:883-91) trial developed breakthrough stroke or systemic embolism while on therapeutic dose. We present the first report of breakthrough stroke in a patient with non-valvular atrial fibrillation anticoagulated with Rivaroxaban. Case presentation. A 52-year-old Caucasian male with non-valvular atrial fibrillation presented with aphasia, right-sided weakness and right facial droop. The patient was newly started on Rivaroxaban for two weeks followed by successful elective cardioversion a day prior to admission. One hour prior to admission, the patient was found with global aphasia, right hemianopsia and hemiparesis consistent with left MCA stroke. Ischemic CVA was confirmed with non-contrast CT. The patient underwent emergent cerebral angiogram and successful mechanical thrombolysis (Solitaire) of left MCA embolus. A week later, neurologic condition improved to hemiparetic and independent gait with residual dysarthria and right facial droop. Given his breakthrough embolic event, the choice of anticoaulgation was changed to Dabigatran. Conclusion. We have demonstrated the first case of breakthrough stroke while on therapeutic dose of Rivaroxaban in a patient with non-valvular atrial fibrillation. In a subset of patients with ischemic stroke while on therapeutic doses of oral anticoagulants, mechanical thrombolysis is crucial and intravenous thrombolytics should be avoided to minimize risk of intracranial hemorrhage. The effectiveness of alternative anticoagulation after failing Rivaroxaban needs to determined with further studies. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Formation of the ferruginous smectite SWa-1 by alteration of soil clays

Clay minerals found in and near the surface of Mars contain unique information about the geochemical environment in the martian near-surface in the ancient past. To interpret this information, it is necessary to fully understand the environments in which different clay minerals form. Studies of terrestrial analog materials and environments are a useful way to address such questions, and some terrestrial materials are also important standards for remote sensing and in situ chemical and mineralogical analyses. This study presents new information on the formation environment of an unusual standard clay, the Clay Minerals Society source clay SWa-1 ferruginous smectite of Grant County. The SWa-1 collection locality is in the Columbia River Basalts (CRB), at the contact between a paleosol and a capping basalt flow. Features at the contact indicate the paleosol soil was wet when the capping flow was emplaced, that lava-sediment mixing occurred, and that both the soil and the capping lava were hydrothermally altered. The soil was hydrothermally enriched in Fe, Mn, and Si. The SWa-1 sample was collected from within the altered zone, suggesting it formed through alteration of paleosol clays by addition of Fe. Similar environments are widespread in the CRB, particularly at the plateau margins, suggesting that altered clays may occur frequently at lava-sediment contacts. Such environments are likely to occur wherever basalt flows are emplaced under warm, wet conditions promoting weathering—such as Mars >3.5 Ga before the present, when clay minerals were forming at its surface. This information has important implications for the use of clay compositions to inform clay formation environments on Mars.
Analysis of zero voltage switching requirements and passive auxiliary circuit design for DC-DC series resonant converters with constant input current

Constant current distribution systems such as under-sea power distribution systems use power converters with a constant input current as a source of input power. This paper analyzes minimum requirements for passive zero-voltage-switching (ZVS) components of dc-dc series resonant converters (SRCs) in dc distribution systems. A steady state analysis of the technique shows that the input voltage varies with the output power of the converter when using a constant input current source. Thus, ZVS requirements deviate from traditional solutions as commonly used for SRCs with a constant input voltage. Design guidelines for selecting the ZVS assisting inductor are presented to achieve ZVS for all active switches over a wide load range without significantly increasing the overall conduction losses. The approach is validated using experimental results for a 400 kHz 450 W SRC with 1 A constant input current and 0.33 A output current.
The Role of Values in Preservice Teachers' Decision to Teach

ABSTRACTThe current study explored the values preservice teachers use as motivation for pursuing a teaching career. Preservice teachers (N = 97) from a large Northeastern urban university were chosen to complete a survey measuring personal utility value, social utility value, and epistemic value. Data analysis was conducted using exploratory factor analysis, correlations, multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA), and multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA). Results indicated moderate and significant correlations among subscales; a two-group MANOVA demonstrated that females were rated higher on the subscale desire to work with children/adolescents and Secondary Education participants rated highest on social contribution; and a MANCOVA using sex as the covariate demonstrated that participants pursuing Early Childhood Education were rated higher on the personal utility value main scale and the time for family and job transferability subscales.
A cyber risk scoring system for medical devices

Abstract The increased connectivity of medical devices expedites patient treatment and provides lifesaving capabilities, but the lack of emphasis on device security has led to several cyber security breaches. Most medical professionals do not have adequate expertise in information technology or cyber security, yet they are responsible for assessing which medical devices provide the best balance of risk and probability of success. This paper proposes a cyber risk scoring system that considers a physician’s worst-case assessment of the potential of a medical device to impact a patient. The scoring system also relies on a security questionnaire based on the STRIDE model that helps generate a risk score for the medical device. Three test scenarios involving medical devices are used to demonstrate the application and utility of the risk scoring system.
Critical Size for Bulk-to-Discrete Transition in 2D Aliphatic Layers: Abrupt Size Effect Observed via Calorimetry and Solid-State 13C NMR

Anomalous changes of physical properties are observed in an abrupt bulk-to-discrete transition in layered silver alkanethiolate (AgSCn, n = 1–16). A critical chain length of ncr = 7 marks the sharp boundary between the bulk (uniform, n ≥ 7) and discrete (individualistic, n ≤ 6) forms of AgSCn. Solid-state 13C NMR analysis reveals that none of the carbons share identical chemical environment in the discrete range, making each AgSCn with n = 2–6 uniquely different material, even though the crystal structure is preserved throughout. Extraordinary changes of thermodynamic properties appearing at this bulk-to-discrete transition include ∼500% increases of melting enthalpy (ΔHm), ∼50 °C increases of melting point (Tm), and an atypical transition between size-dependent Tm depression and Tm enhancement. We develop a new comprehensive Gibbs–Thomson model with piecewise excess free energy (ΔGexcess) to predict the nature of the abrupt size effect melting. A new 3D spatial model is constructed to divide the aliphati...
Human brain imaging of nicotinic acetylcholine α4β2* receptors using [18F]Nifene: Selectivity, functional activity, toxicity, aging effects, gender effects, and extrathalamic pathways

Nicotinic acetylcholinergic receptors (nAChR's) have been implicated in several brain disorders, including addiction, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and schizophrenia. Here we report in vitro selectivity and functional properties, toxicity in rats, in vivo evaluation in humans, and comparison across species of [18F]Nifene, a fast acting PET imaging agent for α4β2* nAChRs. Nifene had subnanomolar affinities for hα2β2 (0.34 nM), hα3β2 (0.80 nM) and hα4β2 (0.83 nM) nAChR but weaker (27 to 219 nM) for hβ4 nAChR subtypes and 169 nM for hα7 nAChR. In functional assays, Nifene (100 μM) exhibited 14% agonist and >50% antagonist characteristics. In 14-day acute toxicity in rats, the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and the no observed adverse effect level (NOAEL) were estimated to exceed 40 μg/kg/day (278 μg/m2/day). In human PET studies, [18F]Nifene (185 MBq; 15% than males. No significant aging effect was observed in [18F]Nifene binding over 5 decades. In all species (mice, rats, monkeys and humans) thalamus showed highest [18F]Nifene binding with reference region ratios >2 compared to extrathalamic regions. Our findings suggest that [18F]Nifene PET may be used to study α4β2* nAChRs in various CNS disorders and for translational research. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
National Self-Critique Prompted by Immersion in (An)Other Culture: Goldsworthy Lowes Dickinson, Xu Zhimo, and Pearl Buck

"Three writers connected across the Atlantic and Pacific produced cogent critiques of their native countries in part as a result of their immersion in other cultures, which provided them with critical distance from which to observe domestic mores and policies.... All three writers were nonconformists in their own countries who identified acutely with overseas people and places. Dickinson was gay at a time when homosexuality was outlawed in England; Xu launched the first modern divorce in China; and Buck was subject to a witch hunt in 1933.... when alarming nationalist ideologies are on the rise in Asia, Europe, and the Americas, it might behoove us to revisit three generously open-minded writers whose sympathy and empathy for the “other” allowed them to become staunch critics of the ideologies of their own countries: Britain, China, and the United States, respectively."
The Biochemistry of Plant Sterols

Publisher Summary Plants are a diverse group of organisms that differ from animals by not possessing a nervous system. They can be grouped into two great categories: those with and those without photosynthetic capacity. The photosynthetic group is comprised by four subgroups: the autotrophic bacteria; the algae, including the phytoflagellates, which resemble protozoa; the bryophytes; and the tracheophytes. The non-photosynthetic group includes the heterotrophic bacteria, mycoplasmas, protozoa, slime molds, fungi, and the sponges. The steroidal structure is composed of two different units. They are the tetracyclic “nucleus” in which all the carbon atoms are in rings and three types of non-annular carbon atoms. The isolation and identification of a particular compound falls into the general realm of structural elucidation, which can become complicated, especially for an unusual sterol. However, for the common dominant structures, advances in chromatography and spectroscopy allow a simple procedure.
Coordinative Alignment To Achieve Ordered Guest Molecules in a Versatile Molecular Crystalline Sponge

A Mn2+-based metal–organic framework (coordination porous framework-5, CPF-5) can serve as a crystalline sponge for single crystal X-ray structural characterization of a variety of compounds using a combination of coordinative alignment and second coordination sphere interactions (e.g., hydrogen bonding). This technique requires only a conventional X-ray source to obtain high quality crystallographic data.
Tribute to a River: For a Poetry That Has Both Roots and Wings

For the Tujia poet Mai Mang, rivers connect us to the past and present, traversing borders and revealing a fundamental life-giving force running through his being. This talk, translated by the auth...
Interleukin-17A Promotes Parietal Cell Atrophy by Inducing Apoptosis.

Background & Aims Atrophic gastritis caused by chronic inflammation in the gastric mucosa leads to the loss of gastric glandular cells, including acid-secreting parietal cells. Parietal cell atrophy in a setting of chronic inflammation induces spasmolytic polypeptide expressing metaplasia, a critical step in gastric carcinogenesis. However, the mechanisms by which inflammation causes parietal cell atrophy and spasmolytic polypeptide expressing metaplasia are not well defined. We investigated the role of interleukin-17A (IL-17A) in causing parietal cell atrophy. Methods A mouse model of autoimmune atrophic gastritis was used to examine IL-17A production during early and late stages of disease. Organoids derived from corpus glands were used to determine the direct effects of IL-17A on gastric epithelial cells. Immunofluorescent staining was used to examine IL-17A receptors and the direct effect of signaling on parietal cells. Mice were infected with an IL-17A-producing adenovirus to determine the effects of IL-17A on parietal cells in vivo. Finally, IL-17A neutralizing antibodies were administered to mice with active atrophic gastritis to evaluate the effects on parietal cell atrophy and metaplasia. Results Increased IL-17A correlated with disease severity in mice with chronic atrophic gastritis. IL-17A caused caspase-dependent gastric organoid degeneration, which could not be rescued with a necroptosis inhibitor. Parietal cells expressed IL-17A receptors and IL-17A treatment induced apoptosis in parietal cells. Overexpressing IL-17A in vivo induced caspase-3 activation and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase–mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate nick-end labeling staining in parietal cells. Finally, IL-17A neutralizing antibody decreased parietal cell atrophy and metaplasia in mice with chronic atrophic gastritis. Conclusions These data identify IL-17A as a cytokine that promotes parietal cell apoptosis during atrophic gastritis, a precursor lesion for gastric cancer.
Posterolateral cervical transpedicular corpectomy for the surgical management of metastatic tumor

Management of metastatic spinal disease in the upper cervical spine can be particularly challenging. Depending on the level of the lesion and the patient’s anatomy, multiple anterior approaches have been described for resection of the cancer, followed by posterior fixation and instrumentation. Although a single-stage posterolateral approach is now well established for thoracic pathology, less is known about the applicability of these principles when applied as an approach to the cervical spine. The authors present here a case using a posterolateral transpedicular approach for corpectomy and graft placement for circumferential reconstruction as a treatment of metastatic disease in the cervical spine to illustrate the feasibility of this technique, especially in the setting where the patient’s anatomy or pathology may impede an anterior or combined circumferential approach.
Amorphous Metal Thin Films for Thermal Inkjet Printing

Due to the lack of grain boundaries, an amorphous metal thin film (AMTF) provides advantageous mechanical properties and enhanced chemical stability, which may enable its use as a thinner cavitation plate for thermal inkjet (TIJ) printing. A thinner cavitation plate leads to improved thermal performance. However, if an AMTF is to be used as a cavitation plate, it must remain amorphous during TIJ operation. In this paper, we fabricate TIJ resistors using a thermally stable (crystallization temperature >1000 °C) Ta30W30Si40 AMTF and stress the material in an open-pool test bed. This tests the stability of the thin film properties after being exposed to a TIJ-like environment. We find that the Ta30W30Si40 AMTF retains its amorphous structure after testing to >107 pulses in the simulated TIJ environment. This suggests that Ta30W30Si40 AMTF is a promising candidate material for TIJ cavitation plate applications. [2017-0236]
Effectiveness of continuous versus single injection femoral nerve block for total knee arthroplasty: A double blinded, randomized trial

Abstract Background Effective analgesia following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is important for maximizing patient satisfaction, early participation in physical therapy and reducing the hospital stay. This trial compared continuous catheter femoral nerve block (cFNB) to single injection femoral nerve block (sFNB) in terms of analgesia, opioid consumption, and participation in physical therapy and associated side effects. Methods This randomized, double blinded trial was conducted in a non-university hospital setting, without major changes to anesthesia or surgical clinical pathways. A total of 85 patients scheduled for primary TKA were randomized to receive either cFNB (n = 44) or sFNB (n = 41). All patients had FNB with 0.5% ropivacaine bolus followed by subarachnoid block for surgery. Postoperatively, 0.2% ropivacaine infusion was commenced in cFNB group and a sham catheter was taped to the skin in sFNB group. All patients received a structured multimodal analgesia regimen throughout hospital stay. The primary outcomes were peak resting visual analogue scale (VAS) scores and morphine consumption at 48 h postoperatively. Results VAS scores (Mean difference 0.25, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) − 0.56 to 1.06; [P = 0.196]) and morphine consumption (Mean difference 0.95 mg, 95% CI − 9.99 to 11.89; [P = 0.863]) were not significantly different among patients who received cFNB versus sFNB at 48 h. There was no difference in hospital stay (P = 0.517) or long-term functional recovery between the two groups (P = 0.385). Conclusions sFNB block provides equal pain relief compared with cFNB, after TKA with no significant difference in opioid consumption, hospital stay, physical therapy outcomes or associated side effects.
On-board Adaptive Informative Sampling for AUVs: a Feasibility Study

Autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) can be used for sampling our lakes and oceans to measure temperature, Chlorophyll abundance, or other physical properties of the water. A commonly proposed method for collecting informative data in robotics is informative sampling or informative path planning. In informative sampling, information-theoretic metrics are used on top of a created model to decide where to deploy sensors or robots. If a model of the environment is already available, this can be done off-line. Alternatively a model can be learned and optimized for on-line, in adaptive informative sampling (AIS). In this paper we report on field trials where we assess the feasibility of running AIS on board a commercial-off-the-shelf AUV. We propose a method of quantifying AIS field performance by using bathymetric data. We show that it is possible to create a Gaussian Process model on board a small commercial-off-the-shelf AUV, and to use this model to determine waypoints for sampling. Our field results show similar performance curves between full and half duration runs, resulting in good models of bathymetry and Chlorophyll fields.
Increase Adherence to Psychotropic Medication Through Motivational Adherence Therapy: A Quality Improvement Project.

Background: Non-adherence to psychiatric mediations is a nationwide problem for people diagnosed with severe mental illness (SMI). National non-adherence rates for psychotropic medications are esti...
Formation of a Delocalized Iridium Benzylidene with Azaquinone Methide Character via Alkoxycarbene Cleavage

Lewis base directed α,α-dehydrogenation of 2-(methoxymethyl)aniline gives a cationic iridium(III) alkoxycarbene. This alkoxycarbene is found to be subject to pyridine-promoted C–O bond cleavage in the formation of a delocalized iridium benzylidene. X-ray diffraction and DFT calculations support a structural distortion away from a classic benzylidene structure stemming from azaquinone methide character. Treatment of the iridium azaquinone methide with ethylene results in formal ethylene insertion into the vinylic C–H bond, demonstrating an unusual mechanism for net C–C bond formation via benzylic C–O cleavage.
Socrates on Punishment and the Law:Apology 25c5-26b2

In his interrogation of Meletus in Plato’s version of Socrates’ defense speech, Socrates offers an interesting argument that promises to provide important evidence for his views about crime and punishment—if only we can understand how the argument is supposed to work. It is our project in this paper to do that. We argue that there are two main problems with the argument: one is that it is not obvious how to make the argument valid; the other is that the argument seems to rely on a distinction that Socrates himself rejects ––a distinction between voluntary and involuntary wrongdoing. Earlier discussions of the argument require Socrates to be using a premise here that he regards as false. In this paper, we argue that Socrates actually regards the critical premise as true, and thus we end up providing a significantly new interpretation of Socrates’ view that all wrongdoing is involuntary. We claim, that even this position (which most scholars regard as unproblematically attributed to the Platonic Socrates) must accommodate the idea (contained in the critical premise of the Apology argument) that some people really do voluntary harm to others.
Diffeomorphic directly manipulated free-form deformation image registration via vector field flows

Motivated by previous work [16] and recent diffeomorphic image registration developments in which the characteristic velocity field is represented by spatiotemporal B-splines [3], we present a diffeomorphic B-spline-based image registration algorithm combining and extending these techniques. The advancements of the proposed framework over previous work include a preconditioned gradient descent algorithm and potential weighting of the metric gradient permitting, among other things, enforcement of stationary boundary conditions. In addition to theoretical and practical discussions of our contribution, we also describe its parallelized implementation as open source in the Insight Toolkit and perform an evaluation on publicly available brain data.
Genetic dissection of neural circuits and behavior in Mus musculus

One of the major challenges in the field of neurobiology is to elucidate the molecular machinery that underlies the formation and storage of memories. For many decades, genetic studies in the fruit fly (Drosophila melanogaster) have provided insight into the role of specific genes underlying memory storage. Although these pioneering studies were groundbreaking, a transition to a mammalian system more closely resembling the human brain is critical for the translation of basic research findings into therapeutic strategies in humans. Because the mouse (Mus musculus) shares the complex genomic and neuroanatomical organization of mammals and there is a wealth of molecular tools that are available to manipulate gene function in mice, the mouse has become the primary model for research into the genetic basis of mammalian memory. Another major advantage of mouse research is the ability to examine in vivo electrophysiological processes, such as synaptic plasticity and neuronal firing patterns during behavior (e.g., the analysis of place cell activity). The focus on mouse models for memory research has led to the development of sophisticated behavioral protocols capable of exploring the role of particular genes in distinct phases of learning and memory formation, which is one of the major accomplishments of the past decade. In this chapter, we will give an overview of several state of the art genetic approaches to study gene function in the mouse brain in a spatially and temporally restricted fashion.
Measuring hypertension control: NCQA and beyond

Using tools developed by NCQA, Rand, and other institutions, health plans and providers can take an aggressive stance toward managing hypertension. This effort has led to gains in blood pressure control in some populations, greater recognition of the importance of controlling hypertension, and increased attention to processes that promote higher-quality health care.
A NONLINEAR VOLTERRA EQUATION IN VISCOELASTICITY

ABSTRACT A one-dimensional nonlinear model for the homogeneous extension of an elastico-viscous rod whose ends are free of traction is developed and analyzed. This model equation, which is a quasilinear hyperbolic integro-differential equation of Volterra type, is based on the assumption that the stress is a particular nonlinear functional of the strain involving two assigned constitutive relations, and an assigned stress-strain relaxation function. Shock solutions are known to occur for this model in the special case in which the stress-strain relaxation function is identically constant. But, by combining energy methods with frequency-domain techniques for nonlinear Volterra equations, it has been shown by Dafermos and Nohel (MRC Tech. Sum. Report #2095) that the nonlinear integro-differential equation which describes the motion has a unique, smooth solution for all time provided the given data (history of motion and external body force) are sufficiently smooth and “small.” The decay properties of the solution and of its derivatives have also been analyzed. The hypotheses for this theory include all currently used constitutive and stress-strain relaxation functions. Various modifications and extensions of this model, including problems in two and three spatial dimensions and other open problems, are being studied.
The Impact of System Interactions on Motivation and Performance in a Game-Based Learning Environment

The current study examined how students’ frequency of interactions with game-based features impacted their system performance (i.e., total trophies won and achievement levels earned) and attitudes toward the game-based system, iSTART-ME. This study (n=40) was a part of a larger study (n=124) conducted with high school students. Results indicate that students’ interactions with game-based features were positively related to both their system performance and their posttest attitudes toward the system. These findings provide further support showing that the integration of game-based features has positive effects on students within educational learning environments.
Insect Viruses: Nonoccluded

The unassigned nonoccluded insect viruses represent a group of viruses that have similar physical and biological properties. The three main viruses in this group are the only known sexually transmitted insect virus Hz-2V, the closely related, persistent virus Hz-1V, and the oryctes virus (Or-V1), which has been used successfully to control the rhinoceros beetle in Southeast Asia and the Pacific. These three viruses have very interesting biology and pathology yet their molecular biology remains very much understudied. The close connection that has evolved between these viruses and their insect hosts has resulted in replication and transmission cycles which include a persistent and/or latent association between the virus and the host. This close virus–host association has resulted in exploitation of Or-V1 as a very successful biological control agent and may eventually provide utility for delivering genetic information to insects.
Formaldehyde emissions from seams and cut edges of laminate flooring: Implications for emission testing protocols and exposure estimation

Abstract Concern about high formaldehyde emission from specific models of laminate flooring (LF) products has recently drawn wide public attention in the U.S. This raises questions about how to best test emissions of LF products and how to make appropriate model assumptions when conducting relevant lifetime exposure and risk assessments. This paper presents a preliminary study focused on these questions. Formaldehyde emissions were measured in 20-L environmental chambers for 6 months for two LF products made with low- and high-emitting composite wood core. Tests were conducted for specimens with and without exposed seams (“click-joints” at the sides and ends of each flooring plank) and perimeter cut edges. Results demonstrate that exposed seams and cut edges can contribute significantly to overall emissions, especially for the product with a high-emitting core, and this effect could last long after flooring installation. Testing with no exposed seams and perimeter cut edges might allow a finished flooring product with a high-emitting core and high emissions after installation to meet low-emitting labelling criteria inappropriately.
Sea-Level Rise Vulnerability Assessment of Bicycle and Trail Networks

AbstractTransportation infrastructure continues to be at risk to climate change impacts including sea-level rise (SLR) inundation. Past studies have primarily focused on motorized facilities; howev...
The Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Frequent Exacerbator Phenotype Is Associated with Decreased Upper Airway Microbiota α Diversity

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a heterogeneous disease. COPD frequent exacerbators (FEs) suffer increased morbidity and mortality compared with infrequent exacerbators (IEs). Exace...
SECURITY OF THE HUMAN PERSONS AND NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT: A LEGAL PERSPECTIVE

Apart from insecurity posed by Boko Haram and other terrorists, there are other different concepts of insecurities that exist side by side in social policy such as material, social, economic, financial, psychological, housing, and personal autonomy. Insecurity is closely related or allied to poverty, Wresinki postulated and defined - lack of basic security - “as the absence of one of more factors that enable individuals and families to assume basic responsibilities and to enjoy fundamental human rights… chronic poverty results, when the lack of basic security simultaneously affects several aspects of the people’s lives, when it is prolonged, and when it seriously compromises people’s chances of regaining their rights and resuming of their responsibilities in the foreseeable future. [1] ” The root of insecurity is lack of resources, which means that each part of a person’s social life is compromised by the limitations that this places on each person’s capacity. The lack of resources is indirect poverty. Poor people are likely to be insecure, and his potentials are limited. Secondly, rights and responsibility are central to a place in society, and a place in the society is necessary for security. All over the world, even in the freest societies there exist laws, rules and regulations and a system of enforcement backed by sanctions for the protection of human persons in the overall interest of every citizen and the society at large. As it concerns, lives and properties, the nation will be impacted negatively and national development will suffer a decline as nobody will want to remain in a country where life, properties and investment will not be secure. Therefore this paper will not only examine security of human persons in Nigeria vis a vis other developed nations, the impact of insecurity of human persons on the country’s investment portfolio but will also consider the legal regime put in place by the various tiers of government in their bid to ensure security for every person living or doing business in Nigeria against the backdrop of increasing terrorist activities in the country. Therefore security of Human persons in Nigeria will be examined through the eye of terrorist activities which have left hundreds or thousands homeless and displaced, and its impact on national development. [1] Wresinski, Report of the Economic and Social Council of France 1987, cited in Duff, 1995, p.35.
The Mean Speed Theorem

On the third day of Galileo’s Dialogues, we find Salviati, Sagredo and Simplicio trying to understand the motion of falling bodies. They have already accepted the assertion that, in a vacuum, falling bodies undergo uniform acceleration. That is: they acquire equal increments of speed during equal increments of time. In the reading selection that follows, the implications of this assertion are drawn out in detail. This is done through a number of propositions relating the distance, speed and time of descent of falling bodies. These proposition invoke a mathematical concept called the “mean speed theorem,” which was articulated almost three centuries earlier by the so-called Oxford Calculators associated with Merton College. What, exactly, does this principle assert? And how is it used by Galileo to determine the distance covered by a body falling from rest?
On mathematicians’ disagreements on what constitutes a proof

We report the results of a study in which we asked 94 mathematicians to evaluate whether five arguments qualified as proofs. We found that mathematicians disagreed as to whether a visual argument a...
Ultrafast laser-generated structural modifications in an Er-doped heavy metal oxide glass

We investigated the effects of femtosecond, multi-pulse laser exposure on the structural changes in an Er3+-doped and heavy-metal co-doped, SiO2-based oxide glass. We analyzed microstructural alterations in the glass network and we monitored the formation of defects resulting from variable laser exposure conditions. To elucidate the subtle differences in glass network reorganization, generated by two laser irradiation wavelengths, we used Raman spectroscopy. We demonstrate how to decouple the very weak luminescence signals of laser-generated optically-active defects from the dominating emission of Er3+. We discuss the relationship between the initial and the irradiation-modified glass microstructure, including bond breaking, the formation of optically active defects and defect-assisted densification build-up in the glass network.
Reducing leakage current during periodic poling of ion-sliced x-cut MgO doped lithium niobate thin films

Ion-sliced lithium niobate thin films offer high optical confinement over their bulk counter parts, enabling compact and efficient nonlinear optics. Quasi-phase matching by periodic poling of thin film lithium niobate remains challenging, however, due to large leakage currents, especially in magnesium oxide doped lithium niobate, which is used in bulk to reduce photorefractive damage. Here we present fabrication and poling details of 700 nm thick x-cut magnesium oxide doped lithium niobate thin films using electric field poling. We introduce a silicon dioxide insulation layer under co-planar electrodes to reduce leakage current. Rounded tips are utilized to encourage nucleation at the center of the electrodes. Uniform domains with 7.5 µm period and 50% duty cycle are achieved. The poling characteristics are compared to bulk lithium niobate, with and without the silicon dioxide insulation layer. The domains are characterized by piezoresponse force microscopy, hydrofluoric etching, and waveguide second harmonic generation at 1550 nm wavelength in a thin film lithium niobate waveguide loaded with a silicon nitride strip.
Molecular Mechanism of Nef-Mediated Inhibition of T Cell Migration in Response to SDF-1α.

Lymphocyte trafficking comprises an intricate multistep process, in which lymphocyte surface integrins, endothelial adhesion molecules, and chemokines produced in the local microenvironment play key roles. We previously reported that HIV-1 nef inhibits T cell chemotaxis in response to the physiological ligand SDF-1αwithout altering CXCR4 expression. Here, we explore the mechanism of this effect. HIV-1 nef significantly reduced the expression of LFA-1, inhibited the adhesion of nef-expressing Jurkat T cells to the HUVEC endothelium, and reduced their transendothelial migration. To gain further insight into how nef mediated these effects, substitution or deletion mutations were introduced into the nef gene, and transwell and transendothelial migration assays were performed. Deletion of the N-terminus proximal basic-rich domain did not change the nef-mediated inhibitory effects on T cell migration, whereas removal of the myristoylation site or the proline-rich amino acid sequence motif of Nef abolished these effects. Similarly, HIV-1 nef blocked the transendothelial migration of Jurkat T cells across the HUVEC monolayer. However, the observed inhibition of transendothelial migration conferred by the wild type nef expression was significantly but not completely reduced by introduction of mutations in the myristoylation site and proline-rich motif, indicating the involvement of other regions in the nef gene. Taken together, these results demonstrate that HIV-1 nef can impair the transendothelial migration of T cells in response to SDF-1αby disturbing different steps in the process, and that the myristoylation site and/or proline-rich motif are key to this effect. These data help to establish the molecular mechanisms of nef-mediated impairment of the T cell migratory response, an essential component of host defense, and provide the basis for targeted therapeutic interventions in patients with AIDS.
Coordinated Behavioral and Physiological Responses to a Social Signal Are Regulated by a Shared Neuronal Circuit

Successful reproduction in animals requires orchestration of behavior and physiological processes. Pheromones can induce both "releaser" (behavioral) and "priming" (physiological) effects [1] in vertebrates [2, 3] and invertebrates [4, 5]. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms underlying pheromone responses could reveal how reproduction-related behaviors and physiology are coordinated. Here, we describe a neuronal circuit that couples the reproductive system and behavior in adult Caenorhabditis elegans hermaphrodites. We found that the response of the oogenic germline to the male pheromone requires serotonin signal from NSM and HSN neurons that acts via the mod-1 receptor in AIY and RIF interneurons and is antagonized by pigment-dispersing factor (PDF). Surprisingly, the same neurons and pathways have been previously implicated in regulation of exploratory behavior in the absence of male-produced signals [6]. We demonstrate that male pheromone acts via this circuit in hermaphrodites to reduce exploration and decrease mating latency, thereby tuning multiple fitness-proximal processes. Our results demonstrate how a single circuit could coordinate behavioral and physiological responses to the environment, even those that unfold on different timescales. Our findings suggest the existence of a centralized regulatory mechanism that balances organismal resources between reproductive investment and somatic maintenance.
A Survey of Accelerator Architectures for Deep Neural Networks

Abstract Recently, due to the availability of big data and the rapid growth of computing power, artificial intelligence (AI) has regained tremendous attention and investment. Machine learning (ML) approaches have been successfully applied to solve many problems in academia and in industry. Although the explosion of big data applications is driving the development of ML, it also imposes severe challenges of data processing speed and scalability on conventional computer systems. Computing platforms that are dedicatedly designed for AI applications have been considered, ranging from a complement to von Neumann platforms to a “must-have” and stand-alone technical solution. These platforms, which belong to a larger category named “domain-specific computing,” focus on specific customization for AI. In this article, we focus on summarizing the recent advances in accelerator designs for deep neural networks (DNNs)—that is, DNN accelerators. We discuss various architectures that support DNN executions in terms of computing units, dataflow optimization, targeted network topologies, architectures on emerging technologies, and accelerators for emerging applications. We also provide our visions on the future trend of AI chip designs.
Implications of early failure of isolated endovascular tibial interventions

Abstract Background Endovascular tibial interventions for chronic limb-threatening ischemia are frequent, but the implications of early failure (≤30 days) of an isolated tibial intervention are still unclear. The aim of this study was to examine the patient-centered outcomes after early failure of isolated tibial artery intervention. Methods A database of patients undergoing lower extremity endovascular interventions between 2007 and 2017 was retrospectively queried. Patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia (Rutherford classes 4, 5, and 6) were selected, and failures within 30 days were identified. Lack of technical success at the time of the procedure was an exclusion. Intention-to-treat analysis by patient was performed. Patient-oriented outcomes of clinical efficacy (absence of recurrent symptoms, maintenance of ambulation, and absence of major amputation), amputation-free survival (survival without major amputation), and freedom from major adverse limb events (MALEs; above-ankle amputation of the index limb or major reintervention [new bypass graft, jump or interposition graft revision]) were evaluated. Results There were 1779 patients (58% male; average age, 65 years; 2898 vessels) who underwent tibial intervention for chronic limb-threatening ischemia; 284 procedures (16%) were early failures. In the early failure group, 124 cases (44%) were considered immediate ( 300 mm, and poor inframalleolar runoff were identified as independent anatomic predictors for early failure and increased MALEs. Early failure was predictive of poor long-term clinical efficacy (11% ± 9% vs 39% ± 8% at 5 years, mean ± standard error of the mean, early vs no early failure; P = .01) and amputation-free survival (16% ± 9% vs 47% ± 9% at 5 years, mean ± standard error of the mean, early vs no early failure; P = .02). Conclusions Both clinical and anatomic factors can predict early failure of endovascular therapy for isolated tibial disease. Early failure significantly increases 30-day major amputation and 30-day MALEs and is associated with poor long-term patient-centered outcomes.
7.6 Biological Effects of Wear Debris From Joint Arthroplasties

Wear of total joint replacements is inevitable with usage of the joint. Despite the development of more wear-resistant articulations, usage of the joint generates particulate and other types of wear debris. Upon generation, wear particles are normally processed by macrophages locally. Phagocytosis of particles activates macrophages and other cells to produce pro-inflammatory mediators. When the amount of wear debris generated is low, a state of homeostasis normally exists in the joint and surrounding tissues, and the localized biological reaction to wear debris is minimal. However, when the foreign body and chronic inflammatory reaction to wear debris and their byproducts is excessive and persistent, chronic inflammation can lead to periprosthetic bone loss (osteolysis). Osteolysis is a complex pathologic process with potentially significant adverse clinical implications. This article will review the basic science underlying the biological reactions to wear debris. The characteristics of wear particles and the cellular response to wear debris will be discussed.
Analytical Stress–Strain model for steel spirals-confined UHPC

Abstract Ultra-high performance fiber reinforced concrete (UHPFRC), which for short is commonly referred to as ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) is an advanced cementitious composite material with superior mechanical properties that could transform future structural design. This paper presents a new comprehensive analytical stress-strain model for confined UHPC with steel spirals, which could be readily implemented in analytical studies to enable and expand structural design of future UHPC axial members such as columns. The validity of several existing confinement models for normal strength, high strength, and fiber reinforced concrete was evaluated first for predicting the uniaxial compressive behavior of UHPC. The evaluation results indicated the need to develop a unique confinement model for UHPC, which was pursued in this study. The proposed model was calibrated and validated using material tests data from about 100 UHPC specimens with varied volumetric ratios of steel fibers and spirals. Thus, the model accounts for combined confinement effects of steel fibers and spirals on compression behavior of UHPC. The developed model was further evaluated using additional experimental data and was shown to adequately represent the uniaxial compressive behavior and full stress-strain curves of both unconfined and confined UHPC with transverse reinforcement.
Effects of Freshwater Salinization and Biotic Stressors on Amphibian Morphology

Organisms are commonly exposed to numerous stressors that induce behavioral, physiological, or morphological changes in some combination. At northern temperate latitudes, de-icing agents (primarily sodium chloride, NaCl) are a major stressor to species in freshwater ecosystems. Species-specific responses to road salt toxicity range from lethal to sublethal effects, but it remains unclear how these effects interact with biotic stressors. Morphology can be quite sensitive to environmental changes, yet we know little about how it is affected by road salt exposure. We exposed Wood Frog tadpoles (Rana sylvatica) to two road salt formulations (NaCl and a mixture of NaCl, MgCl2, and KCl), each at three concentrations (200, 600, and 1000 mg Cl–/L), crossed with three biotic stressor levels (predator cue, competition, and a no-stressor control). We then measured the impacts on relative morphology (snout–vent length, body width, forelimb length, forelimb width, hindlimb length, hindlimb width) of the emerging metamorphs. Salt concentration and biotic stressors both impacted relative morphology, but their effects did not interact. Exposure to road salts increased relative snout–vent length (SVL) and body width. In contrast, competition induced relatively shorter SVL and forelimb length while predator cues induced relatively longer hindlimbs and narrower forelimbs. This is the first discovery that road salts can induce changes in amphibian morphology and that these effects are independent of changes induced by biotic stressors. Future research should examine the effects on overwintering success and future fitness in amphibians as well as the impacts of salt on the morphology of other aquatic taxa that are being exposed to freshwater salinization.