Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Biases in Macroeconomic Forecasts: Irrationality or Asymmetric Loss?

Survey data on expectations frequently find evidence that forecasts are biased, rejecting the joint hypothesis of rational expectations and symmetric loss. While the literature has attempted to explain this bias through forecasters' strategic behavior, we propose a simpler explanation based on asymmetric loss. We establish that existing rationality tests are not robust to even small deviations from symmetry and hence have little ability to tell whether the forecaster is irrational or the loss function is asymmetric. We propose new and more general methods for testing forecast rationality jointly with flexible families of loss functions that embed quadratic loss as a special case. An empirical application to survey data on forecasts of nominal output growth shows strong evidence against rationality and symmetric loss. There is considerably weaker evidence against rationality once asymmetric loss is permitted
Coupling-based Criteria for Integration Testing

Integration testing is an important part of the testing process, but few integration testing techniques have been systematically studied or defined. The goal of this research is to develop practical, effective, formalizable, automatable techniques for testing of connections between components during software integration. This paper presents an integration testing technique that is based on couplings between software components. This technique can be used to support integration testing of software components, and satisfies part of the USA’s Federal Aviation Authority’s requirements for structural coverage analysis of software. The coupling-based testing technique is described, and the coverage criteria for three types of couplings are defined. Techniques and algorithms for developing coverage analysers to measure the extent to which a test set satisfies the criteria are presented, and results from a comparative case study are presented.  1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A plea for a more physiological ICSI

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) can be considered the most ‘revolutionary’ in vitro insemination technique because it has efficiently allowed the treatment of male factor infertility. Although ICSI has been successfully and safely applied worldwide for almost 20 years, currently, we have no real knowledge regarding the hypothetical long‐term side effects on ICSI adults, given the increased likelihood of spermatozoa with defective nuclear content fertilising the oocytes. The aim of this review article is to investigate the most recent advances of performing ICSI in the safest possible manner, thus, minimising the theoretical hazards of this procedure. To allow for substantiated recommendation which male gametes to choose for physiological ICSI an updated search was performed in Medline and Embase, from 1996 to June 2011. Recent technical advances allow operators to more or less simulate physiological conditions in the laboratory, reducing potential damage to the gametes. It seems possible to prevent fertilisation by DNA‐damaged and chromosomal‐unbalanced spermatozoa by selecting ICSI sperm by motility and/or maturation markers such as hyaluronic acid or other zona pellucida receptors. Furthermore, novel non‐invasive imaging techniques can be valid tools for helping in the morphological selection of ICSI spermatozoa.
The impact of hepatitis C virus infection on survival in dialysis patients: meta‐analysis of observational studies

Summary. The impact of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection on mortality of patients receiving regular dialysis remains unclear. The assessment of the natural history of HCV in dialysis population is difficult because of the low progression of HCV‐related liver disease over time and the reduced life expectancy in patients with end‐stage renal disease. The aim of the study was to conduct a systematic review of the published medical literature concerning the impact of HCV infection on the survival of patients undergoing maintenance dialysis. The relative risk of mortality was regarded as the most reliable outcome end‐point. Study‐specific relative risks were weighted by the inverse of their variance to obtain fixed‐ and random‐effects pooled estimates for mortality with HCV across the published studies. We identified seven studies involving 11 589 unique patients on maintenance dialysis; two (29%) were case–control studies. Pooling of study results demonstrated that presence of anti‐HCV antibody was an independent and significant risk factor for death in patients on maintenance dialysis. The summary estimate for adjusted relative risk (aRR) (all‐cause mortality) was 1.34 with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 1.13–1.59. Heterogeneity statistics, Ri = 0.48 (P‐value by Q‐test = 0.13). In a sensitivity analysis including only (n = 5) cohort studies, the pooled aRR was 1.38 (95% CI, 1.20–1.59); heterogeneity statistics Ri = 0.46. As a cause of death, hepatocellular carcinoma and liver cirrhosis were significantly more frequent among anti‐HCV‐positive than ‐negative dialysis patients. Our meta‐analysis indicates that anti‐HCV‐positive patients on dialysis have an increased risk of mortality compared with HCV‐negative patients. The excess risk of death in HCV‐positive patients may be at least partially attributed to chronic liver disease with its attendant complications.
The authors reply.

e320 www.ccmjournal. org August 2015 • Volume 43 • Number 8 inclusion in the resuscitation bundle of the SSC guidelines since the year 2002. However, both ARISE and ProCESS failed to replicate these results in a multicenter, aleatorized setting. We believe that this is explained at least in part because of the change in attitude toward early aggressive treatment of sepsis that has resulted in improved prognosis. Control groups on modern trials are a mirror on which the institution of early recognition and treatment reflects, and a mortality of 20% compared with the historical 30– 50% should be considered a normal in clinical practice. Patients in both ARISE and ProCESS trials received around 2,500 mL of fluid before aleatorization, and in the ARISE trial, the mean difference among arms in fluid administration, while statistically significant, was barely 220 mL (1,964 ± 1,415 vs 1,713 ± 1,401 mL), making obvious that both groups benefited from adequate resuscitation. The same case could be made for other aggressive interventions such as the use of a central venous catheter that in ARISE was used on 62% of control patients. The value of EGDT and SSC has been its ability to spread consciousness on the importance of early intervention. Results of recent trials should not be nihilistically interpreted as a failure of the resuscitation bundle but as an invitation to find new monitoring and therapeutic goals. The goal of shock therapy remains to achieve a state of hemodynamics that allows a balance between oxygen supply and demand on basis of a correct preload, vascular tone, and cardiac function. We believe it is obliged to change current recommendations on the SSC guidelines. The resuscitation bundle should abandon the endorsement of the rigid algorithm advocated by the EGDT while keeping emphasis on timely fluid administration and source control. More information is becoming available on preload and fluid-response monitoring techniques (pressure pulse variation, systolic volume variation), myocardial function evaluation through echocardiography (less invasive and prone to complications than pulmonary artery catheterization) and regional, and microcirculation (5). New therapeutic strategies that benefit from these advances are needed, especially in the subset of patients who do not respond to the initial resuscitation, representing the main therapeutic challenge. The authors have disclosed that they do not have any potential conflicts of interest.
A Peer-Delivered Educational Intervention to Improve Nursing Student Cyberprofessionalism

Previous research documents online unprofessionalism among nursing students. The current study assessed the effects of a peer-facilitated social media education session on changes in attitudes and knowledge among recently admitted prelicensure nursing students. Uncertain or incorrect attitudes and knowledge showed significant improvements after the session. Such interventions may enhance cyberprofessionalism in future student cohorts and warrant further exploration.
Therapeutic effects of vitamin E supplementation in 4 dogs with poor semen quality and low superoxide dismutase activity in seminal plasma

Four dogs with poor semen quality, low seminal plasma superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and low blood plasma testosterone (T) levels were orally administered one vitamin E tablet containing 50 mg α-tocopheryl acetate per dog daily for 4 weeks. The mean values of semen quality were temporarily improved after the start of vitamin E treatment and the values of 4, and 5 weeks after that were significantly different from those before the treatment (P<0.05–0.001). The mean blood plasma T and seminal plasma SOD activity values slightly increased in the 4 dogs after the treatment. The results of the present study indicate that poor semen quality in dogs with low seminal plasma SOD can be improved by vitamin E treatment.
ATP-dependent G-quadruplex unfolding by Bloom helicase exhibits low processivity

Various helicases and single stranded DNA (ssDNA) binding proteins unfold G-quadruplex (GQ) structures. However, the underlying mechanisms of this activity have only recently come to focus. We report kinetic studies on Bloom (BLM) helicase and human telomeric GQ interactions using single-molecule Förster resonance energy transfer (smFRET). Using partial duplex DNA (pdDNA) constructs with different 5′ ssDNA overhangs, we show that BLM localizes in the vicinity of ssDNA/double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) junction and reels in the ssDNA overhang in an ATP-dependent manner. A comparison of DNA constructs with or without GQ in the overhang shows that GQ unfolding is achieved in 50–70% of reeling attempts under physiological salt and pH conditions. The unsuccessful attempts often result in dissociation of BLM from DNA which slows down the overall BLM activity. BLM-mediated GQ unfolding is typically followed by refolding of the GQ, a pattern that is repeated several times before BLM dissociates from DNA. BLM is significantly less processive compared to the highly efficient GQ destabilizer Pif1 that can repeat GQ unfolding activity hundreds of times before dissociating from DNA. Despite the variations in processivity, our studies point to possible common patterns used by different helicases in minimizing the duration of stable GQ formation.
Reduced Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate, a Pentose Phosphate Pathway Product, Might Be a Novel Drug Candidate for Ischemic Stroke

Background and Purpose— Our previous study has defined a role of TP53-induced glycolysis and apoptosis regulator in neuroprotection against ischemic injury through increasing the flow of pentose phosphate pathway. We hypothesized that the pentose phosphate pathway product nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) could be a novel drug for treatment of ischemic stroke. Methods— The NADPH was given before, at the onset, or after stroke onset with single or repeated intravenous (mice and rats) or intraperitoneal injections (monkey). The short- and long-term therapeutic effects of NADPH were evaluated in male adult ICR mice (total=614) with transient middle cerebral artery occlusion, in male adult Sprague–Dawley rats (total=114) with permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion, and in male adult rhesus monkey (total=12) with thrombotic middle cerebral artery occlusion. Results— Administration of NADPH led to a dramatic increase in the levels of ATP and reduced form of glutathione, whereas it decreased the levels of reactive oxygen species. NADPH significantly reduced infarct volume, improved poststroke survival, and recovery of neurological functions in mouse and rat models of stroke. Robust neuroprotection of a single dose of NADPH was seen when it was administered within 5 hours after reperfusion; however, repeat administration of NADPH twice a day for 7 days starting 24 hours after the onset of stroke also offered therapeutic effects. Pretreatment with NADPH also significantly improved the outcome of stroke insult. Conclusions— Administration of exogenous NADPH significantly protected neurons against ischemia/reperfusion-induced injury in 2 rodent stroke models. Thus, NADPH might be a promising drug candidate for treatment of ischemic stroke.
Value Chain Analysis and Financial Viability of Agro-Processing Industries in Himachal Pradesh

The paper has studied the structure and extent of value addition in different agro-processing units in Himachal Pradesh. It has also examined the financial viability of agro-processing industries in the state. The break-even analysis has shown enough leverage for processing units to stay in the business even at low capacity utilization. The extent of value addition has been about 53 per cent in the processing sector. The maximum value addition has been observed in fruits/vegetable processing (133%), followed by bakery and confectionery units. The financial viability ratios computed from financial accounts have revealed high current ratio but lower quick ratio (acid test) in most of the processing industries, showing that many industries have substantial unsold inventories. However, financial ratios have been found more favourable in case of small units as compared to large units. A direct relationship has been found between size of the firm and number of its backward and forward linkages. An average processing industry has 85 backward linkages and 123 forward linkages. It is found that geographical concentration of the processing industries in the state is influenced more by demand rather than supply factors . The suggestions and recommendations emerging from the investigation include policy thrust and emphasis on developing industrial areas in raw material producing regions, thrust on small-scale industries for self-employment in micro enterprises in rural areas, promotion of supporting and subsidiary (intermediate) industries to diversify value addition activities, cost effective and adequate supply of raw material by strengthening direct linkages through suitable contract farming models, liberal credit policy to modernize processing units and encouraging formation of small industries consortia or associations for collective marketing and sales promotion.
A Longitudinal Examination of the Effects of Computer Self-efficacy Growth on Performance during Technology Training

Technology training in the classroom is critical in preparing students for upper level classes as well as professional careers, especially in fields such as technology. One of the key enablers to this process is computer self-efficacy (CSE), which has an extensive stream of empirical research. Despite this, one of the missing pieces is how CSE actually changes during training, and how such change is related to antecedents and performance outcomes. Measuring change requires repeated data gathering and the use of latent growth modeling, a relatively new statistical technique. This study examines CSE (specifically general CSE or GCSE) growth over time during training, and how this growth is influenced by anxiety and gender and influences performance, using a semester-long lab course covering three applications. The use of GCSE growth more accurately models how students actually learn in a technology classroom. It provides novel clarity in the interaction of gender, anxiety, GCSE, specific CSEs, and performance during training. The study finds that the relationship between anxiety and self-efficacy decreases over time during training, becoming non-significant; it clarifies the significant role gender plays in influencing GCSE at the start of and during training. It finds GCSE influences application performance only through specific CSEs.
Synoptic versus orographic control on stationary convective banding

Quasi‐stationary convective bands can cause large localised rainfall accumulations and are often anchored by topographic features. Here, the predictability of and mechanisms causing one such band are determined using ensembles of the Met Office Unified Model at convection‐permitting resolution (1.5 km grid length). The band was stationary over the UK for 3 h and produced rainfall accumulations of up to 34 mm. The amount and location of the predicted rainfall was highly variable despite only small differences between the large‐scale conditions of the ensemble members. Only three of 21 members of the control ensemble produced a stationary rain band; these three had the weakest upstream winds and hence lowest Froude number. Band formation was due to the superposition of two processes: lee‐side convergence resulting from flow around an upstream obstacle and thermally forced convergence resulting from elevated heating over the upstream terrain. Both mechanisms were enhanced when the Froude number was lower. By increasing the terrain height (thus reducing the Froude number), the band became more predictable.
The Preparation Period in Basketball: Training Load and Neuromuscular Adaptations.

PURPOSE To investigate the effect of the preparation period on neuromuscular characteristics of 12 professional (PRO) and 16 semiprofessional (SEMIPRO) basketball players and relationships between training-load indices and changes in neuromuscular physical performance. METHODS Before and after the preparation period, players underwent a countermovement jump (CMJ) test followed by a repeated change-of-direction (COD) test consisting of 4 levels with increasing intensities. The peripheral neuromuscular functions of the knee extensors (peak torque [PT]) were measured using electrical stimulations after each level (PT1, PT2, PT3, and PT4). Furthermore, PT Max (the highest value of PT) and PT Dec (PT decrement from PT Max to PT4) were calculated. RESULTS Trivial to small (effect size [ES] = -0.17 to 0.46) improvements were found in CMJ variables, regardless of competitive level. After the preparation period, peripheral fatigue induced by a COD test was similarly reduced in both PRO (PT Dec: from 27.8% [21.3%] to 11.4% [13.7%]; ES = -0.71; 90% confidence interval [CI], ±0.30) and SEMIPRO (PT Dec: from 26.1% [21.9%] to 10.2% [8.2%]; ES = -0.69; 90% CI, ±0.32). Moderate to large relationships were found between session rating of perceived exertion training load and changes in peak power output (PPO) measured during the CMJs (rs [90% confidence interval]: PPOabs, -.46 [±.26]; PPOrel, -.53 [±.23]) and in some PTs measured during the COD test (PT1, -.45 [±.26]; PT2, -.44 [±.26]; PT3, -.40 [±.27]; and PT Max, -.38 [±.28]). CONCLUSIONS The preparation period induced minimal changes in the CMJ, while the ability to sustain repeated COD efforts was improved. Reaching high session rating of perceived exertion training loads might partially and negatively affect the ability to produce strength and power.
Identification of Cell Surface Molecules Involved in Dystroglycan-Independent Lassa Virus Cell Entry

ABSTRACT Although O-mannosylated dystroglycan is a receptor for Lassa virus, a causative agent of Lassa fever, recent findings suggest the existence of an alternative receptor(s). Here we identified four molecules as receptors for Lassa virus: Axl and Tyro3, from the TAM family, and dendritic cell-specific intercellular adhesion molecule 3-grabbing nonintegrin (DC-SIGN) and liver and lymph node sinusoidal endothelial calcium-dependent lectin (LSECtin), from the C-type lectin family. These molecules enhanced the binding of Lassa virus to cells and mediated infection independently of dystroglycan. Axl- or Tyro3-mediated infection required intracellular signaling via the tyrosine kinase activity of Axl or Tyro3, whereas DC-SIGN- or LSECtin-mediated infection and binding were dependent on a specific carbohydrate and on ions. The identification of these four molecules as Lassa virus receptors advances our understanding of Lassa virus cell entry.
Multiple system atrophy.

Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a sporadic neurodegenerative disorder that usually manifests in the early fifties and progresses relentlessly with a mean survival of 9 years. Clinically, MSA is dominated by autonomic/urogenital failure which may be associated with either levodopa unresponsive parkinsonism in 80p.cent of cases (MSA-P subtype) or with cerebellar ataxia in 20p.cent of cases (MSA-C subtype). Pathologically, MSA is characterized by a neuronal multisystem degeneration and abnormal glial cytoplasmic inclusions containing alpha-synuclein aggregates. Pharmacological treatment of motor features is disappointing except for a transient L-Dopa response in a minority of MSA-P patients. In contrast, autonomic and urogenital features of MSA should be identified early on because they can be treated effectively in many instances. To improve the outcome of this devastating disorder which causes early severe and progressive disability more research into etiology, pathogenesis, early diagnosis and therapeutic management is necessary. Several research groups have been formed in Europe (EMSA-SG, NNIPPS) and USA (NAMSA-SG) to address these unmet needs.
Behavioral Lateralization in the Northern Bald Ibis (Geronticus eremita)

Laterality is a preference for employing one side of the body when engaging in a certain behaviors or mental processes. Evidence of laterality has been obtained in numerous species (for review see Rogers & Andrew 2002, Vallortigara & Rogers 2005), and it has been suggested that such side preferences may be related to various aspects of mental (e.g. van der Hoorn et al. 2010) and physical (e.g. Quaranta et al. 2006) health. Given this, understanding the lateral tendencies of a species could eventually come to aid conservation efforts. Here we present preliminary evidence of behavioral laterality in the critically endangered Northern Bald Ibis Geronticus eremita and discuss the need for additional work in this area.
Regulation of tonicity-dependent activation of NFAT5 by mitogen-activated protein kinases

Various tissues, most notably the kidney medulla, are normally exposed to a hypertonic environment. The transcription factor NFAT5 is essential for these tissues to survive and function properly by activating expression of the osmoprotective genes and genes that are unique for the functions of these tissues. Moreover, hypertonicity causes or is associated with certain diseases and disorders such as diabetes mellitus and inflammation. NFAT5 plays an important role in pathogenesis of these diseases and disorders. Hypertonicity activates NFAT5 through phosphorylation of signaling molecules or NFAT5 itself. More than a dozen of kinases have been identified. This mini-review will focus on mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), which include p38, ERK and JNK families, because they are the most studied kinases in regulation of NFAT5. p38alpha, ERK1/2 and some of their upstream kinases have been demonstrated to contribute to tonicity-dependent activation of NFAT5 by increasing its transactivating activity without significantly affecting its nuclear accumulation. However, many important questions remain. For example, hypotonicity, which inhibits NFAT5 activity, also activates p38 and ERK1/2, raising a question concerning how p38 and ERK1/2 relay the hypertonic signal to NFAT5. The present mini-review calls for attention to MAPKs isoforms, duration and strength of activation, cellular localization and interaction with specific scaffolds and other signaling molecules, when they are studied for their roles in regulation of NFAT5. Further, whether MAPKs regulate NFAT5 in the tissues remains to be addressed.