Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Modelling Asymmetry in Stock Returns by a Threshold Autoregressive Conditional Heteroscedastic Model

Possible asymmetric behaviour of stock prices during bear and bull markets are studied by using a threshold type non-linear time series model with conditional heteroscedastic variance. Using Hong Kong data it is demonstrated that the return series could have a conditional mean structure which depends on the rise and fall of the market on a previous day. The findings also shed some light on why it could be difficult to reject the efficient market hypothesis. The threshold model with conditional changing variance is also of interest in other financial applications.
Diagnostic Value of a PCR-Based Technique for Prosthetic Joint Infection

Prosthetic joint infection (PJI) is a catastrophic complication for patients with arthroplasty. Culture is the most commonly used method to identify PJI. However, it may not be accurate enough because of contamination and false-negative results (1). A PCR-based technique has been developed and provides great value for PJI diagnosis. Thus, we read with great interest the study by Qu et al. (2) evaluating the diagnostic value of PCR-based diagnosis for PJI. In their study, 14 studies with 1,480 patients were finally included. However, according to the inclusion criteria, the study by Moojen et al. (3) should not be included. In this study, patients undergoing various orthopedic surgeries, including osteosynthesis, were included. Besides, two similar studies (4, 5) by Kobayashi et al. were performed during the same period. However, the authors included the study with a relatively smaller sample size (4) rather than the study with a larger sample size (5), resulting in the data loss of some patients. We then searched the databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar) from their establishment to March 2014. Reference lists and citations were also checked for additional studies. Studies on the diagnostic value of a PCR-based technique were selected. Finally, 21 studies (5–25) with 2,619 patients met the inclusion criteria (2) and were included. True-positive, false-negative, false-positive, and true-negative values in all studies were extracted. The statistical analysis was performed with Meta-DiSc (version 1.4). The pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio (PLR), negative likelihood ratio (NLR), diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), and area under the curve (AUC) were 0.79 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.76 to 0.82), 0.86 (95% CI, 0.84 to 0.87), 8.22 (95% CI, 4.66 to 15.16), 0.25 (95% CI, 0.18 to
ON VECTOR BOUNDARY VALUE PROBLEMS WITHOUT GROWTH RESTICTIONS

Herein, we consider the existence of solutions to second-order systems of twopoint boundary value problems (BVPs). The methods used involve the topological transversality approach of Granas et. al. combined with a Bernstein-Nagumo condition from Gaines and Mawhin. The new results allow the treatment of systems of BVPs without growth restrictions in the third variable. The new results also are applicable to systems of BVPs that may have singularities in the right-hand side at the end-points of the interval of existence. Some examples are presented to illustrate the theory.
Laparostomy in patients with severe secondary peritonitis.

BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of laparostomy with the Bogota bag for the management of patients with severe secondary peritonitis and the risk factors for survival. METHODS Thirty-seven patients (22 males, 15 females; mean age 63.5; range 44 to 83 years) with secondary peritonitis were treated by laparostomy and temporary closure with Bogota bag. APACHE II scores and Mannheim Peritonitis Index (MPI) were used to calculate the disease severity. The outcomes and effectiveness of APACHE II and MPI values were analyzed retrospectively. RESULTS The mortality rate was 43.2%. Significant differences were noted between survivors and non-survivors according to initial APACHE II and MPI scores and the number of operations. The non-survivors had higher APACHE II (r=0.81, p=0.001) and MPI (r=0.39, p=0.02) scores. The patients who survived were re-operated 1.6 times and those who died were re-operated 4.7 times. In five patients, laparostomy was closed primarily, while in the others, the wound was left open to heal secondarily. CONCLUSION Patients with higher APACHE II and MPI scores and number of operations had higher rates of mortality due to their major risk factors. Temporary abdominal closure using the Bogota bag in patients with secondary peritonitis is an inexpensive-simple method, permitting evaluation of underlying viscera and recognition of infection.
Achieving the physical limits of the bounded-storage model

Secure two-party cryptography is possible if the adversary's quantum storage device suffers imperfections. For example, security can be achieved if the adversary can store strictly less then half of the qubits transmitted during the protocol. This special case is known as the bounded-storage model, and it has long been an open question whether security can still be achieved if the adversary's storage were any larger. Here, we answer this question positively and demonstrate a two-party protocol which is secure as long as the adversary cannot store even a small fraction of the transmitted pulses. We also show that security can be extended to a larger class of noisy quantum memories.
Emergence Percentage and Speed of Rootstocks for Citriculture in South of Brazil

The fact that Brazilian citriculture has focused on few rootstocks poses several phytosanitary risks to the culture and has made genetic improvement programs develop hybrid genotypes to be used as novel alternatives. This study aimed at evaluating the behavior of 42 different rootstocks regarding their emergence percentage and speed in weather conditions experienced in the extreme south of Brazil. Seeds of hybrids developed by the Citrus Genetic Improvement Program (PMG Citros) at the Embrapa Mandioca e Fruticultura (PMG Citros) and cultivars from other citrus growing regions were sown in conical tubes filled with commercial substrate in May 2017. A thoroughly randomized design with 4 replicates, each composed of 45 sampling units, was employed. Emergence percentage and emergence speed of every genotype were evaluated and the ones with the highest emergence percentage of seedlings and the ones with the most precocious emergence were identified. All genotypes completed seedling emergence 98 days after sowing. Seeds of Trifoliata, TSKC × CTSW-041 and TSKC × CTSW-025 had the highest values of seedling emergence whereas the highest emergence speed indexes were exhibited by genotypes Trifoliata and lemon tree ‘Cravo’.
Treatment with infliximab or azathioprine negatively impact the efficacy of hepatitis B vaccine in inflammatory bowel disease patients

Immunization against hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is recommended in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), particularly in those under immunosuppressive therapy. Limited data are available about IBD patient's response to HBV vaccination. We assessed the response rate to HBV vaccination in IBD patients and evaluated the impact of different factors on the efficacy of HBV vaccination.
Alpha-actinin-3 (ACTN3) R577X polymorphism influences knee extensor peak power response to strength training in older men and women.

BACKGROUND The alpha-actinin-3 (ACTN3) R577X polymorphism has been associated with muscle power performance in cross-sectional studies. METHODS We examined baseline knee extensor concentric peak power (PP) and PP change with approximately 10 weeks of unilateral knee extensor strength training (ST) using air-powered resistance machines in 71 older men (65 [standard deviation = 8] years) and 86 older women (64 [standard deviation = 9] years). RESULTS At baseline in women, the XX genotype group had an absolute (same resistance) PP that was higher than the RR (p =.005) and RX genotype groups (p =.02). The women XX group also had a relative (70% of one-repetition maximum [1-RM]) PP that was higher than that in the RR (p =.002) and RX groups (p =.008). No differences in baseline absolute or relative PP were observed between ACTN3 genotype groups in men. In men, absolute PP change with ST in the RR (n = 16) group approached a significantly higher value than in the XX group (n = 9; p =.07). In women, relative PP change with ST in the RR group (n = 16) was higher than in the XX group (n = 17; p =.02). CONCLUSIONS The results indicate that the ACTN3 R577X polymorphism influences the response of quadriceps muscle power to ST in older adults.
Time trends in socio-economic inequalities in stunting prevalence: analyses of repeated national surveys

Abstract Objective Much is known about national trends in child undernutrition, but there is little information on how socio-economic inequalities are evolving over time. We aimed to assess socio-economic inequalities in stunting prevalence over time. Design We selected nationally representative surveys carried out since the mid-1990s for which information was available on asset indices and on child anthropometry. We identified twenty-five countries that had at least two surveys over an interval of 10 years or more, totalling eighty-seven surveys. Stunting prevalence was calculated according to wealth quintiles. Absolute and relative inequalities were calculated and time trends were obtained by regression. Setting Nationally representative household surveys from twenty-five low- and middle-income countries. Subjects Children <5 years of age. Results National prevalence declined significantly in twenty-two of the twenty-five countries. In eighteen out of twenty-five countries, relative reductions were higher among the rich than among the poor. Overall, there was no indication that inequalities improved. Striking examples are Nepal, with a 17·0 percentage points decline in stunting per decade, but where inequalities increased sharply; and Brazil, where stunting fell by 6·7 percentage points and inequalities were all but eliminated. Conclusions Global progress in reducing stunting has not been accompanied by improved equity, but countries varied markedly in how successful they were in reducing prevalence among the poorest children. It is important to document how some countries were able to reduce inequalities, so that these lessons can be used to foster global progress, particularly in light of the increased importance of within-country inequalities in the post-2015 agenda.
Cricoid pressure: a simple, yet effective biofeedback trainer

Background and objective: Only regular training of anaesthetic personnel ensures safe and reliable application of cricoid pressure during rapid sequence induction of anaesthesia. Previously described training devices are either complicated, too expensive and usually unavailable, or they are very simple and do not correctly simulate the process of applying cricoid force. We designed and tested a cricoid pressure trainer with real-time display of applied force. The device is easy to assemble at relatively little cost with material widely available. It allows effective biofeedback training of the force required during the Sellick manoeuvre and can be used for routine staff assessment. Methods: Thirty-six anaesthesia assistants were assessed for their correct application of cricoid pressure. Previous training in, and knowledge of, applying cricoid pressure was first evaluated by a questionnaire. We designed a model for testing the application of cricoid force. Pre-training cricoid forces were obtained by asking the subjects to apply 'awake' (10 N = 1.020 kg) and 'asleep' (30 N = 3.060 kg) cricoid pressure on our model while blinded to the actual pressure produced. The volunteer was then trained to apply correct pressure employing real-time biofeedback. Post-training values were later determined with the subject again blinded to the actual applied pressure. Results: Post-training performance showed significant improvement in the application of the correct cricoid force (P < 0.0005). Only 8% (3/36) of subjects applied incorrect 'awake' cricoid pressure after training vs. 56% (20/36) before training. All participants applied correct 'asleep' cricoid pressure after training vs. 72% (26/36) failing before training. Conclusions: Our biofeedback cricoid pressure trainer is effective in the assessment and training of correct cricoid pressure application by anaesthetic personnel.
Atrial Natriuretic Peptide During Different Pacing Modes in a Comparison with Hemodynamic Changes

The study investigates the response of atrial nafriuretic peptide (ANP) to different cardiac pacing modes in comparison with hemodynamic changes. Ten patients underwent Swan‐Ganz catheterization during pacemaker implant. Atrioventricular and ventricular pacing were performed consecutively at three pacing rate levels (80, 100, and 110 ppm). Blood samples were taken from the pulmonary artery for ANP determination, both basally and at the end of each pacing period, Concomitantly, mean pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) and mean pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) were measured. Cardiac output (CO) was determined by thermodilution both basally and during the 110 ppm steps. During atrioventricular pacing, whereas no significant changes were observed for ANP, PCWP and PAP, CO increased significantly (P < 0,0005), At the beginning of ventricular pacing hemodynamic parameters and ANP levels were comparable with those of baseline conditions. During subsequent ventricular pacing PCWP and ANP increased significantly at the 110 ppm rate step (P < 0.05). PAP did not change significantly, whereas CO decreased in all cases (P < 0.01). A positive correlation was observed between ANP and PCWP during ventricular (P < 0.001), but not atrioventricular pacing. The results, while confining the hemodynamic advantages of atrioventricular pacing, point to a major stimulation of ANP secretion during ventricular pacing. This fact, together with the observed drop in CO and the correlation between ANP and PCWP, suggest that the increase of ANP in ventricular pacing may be the expression of a compensatory mechanism to the hemodynamic disadvantages of atrioventricular asynchrony.
Seasonal changes in abomasal worms (Ostertagia spp.) in white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) at Long Point, Ontario.

Three species of nematodes were recovered from the abomasa of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) collected at Long Point, Ontario, from September 1972 to August 1973. Ostertagia odocoilei was recovered from 45 deer (96%), O. mossi from 31 (66%), and O. dikmansi from 30 (64%). Abundance of adult stages of all three species was greatest in summer and least in winter. O. odocoilei was the most abundant species, especially during winter. Females were more abundant than males at all times of the year, particularly during winter.Numerous inhibited early fourth-stage larvae were recovered during winter and early spring, while few were found in July and August. The decrease in numbers of inhibited larvae in spring was coincident with a corresponding increase in abundance of adult worms. This is the first indication of the existence of inhibition (previously reported in domesticated animals) in species of Ostertagia parasitizing deer. Inhibition was not related to host age, indicating that the phenomenon i.
INTRODUCING “ACTIVE LISTENING” TO INSTANT MESSAGING AND E-MAIL: BENEFITS AND LIMITATIONS

In today’s information society it is critical to use computer-mediated communication effectively. This article explores whether the highly recognized face-to-face communication concept “active listening” can also be applied to online settings. Demanding verbal and nonverbal skills, this way of communication improves mutual understanding by using techniques like paraphrasing. For instance, it avoids misunderstandings and in conflicts people tend to be more willing to explain in detail, which increases chances to find a joint solution. The presented study investigates whether “active listening” is effective in written online communication, which is a novel asset. Focusing on instant messaging and e-mail, we examined both settings’ capacities and differences. Qualitative analysis based on a unique data set including log files and written user reflections on online “active listening” activities, reveals that “active listening” is possible in online communication, although a face-to -face setting is preferred due to a number of constraints imposed by online media. Results show that, while there are limitations to expressing empathy in online settings, the latter offer valuable opportunities that face-to-face conversations tend to lack. For instance, it appears that online media leave control with a communicator by allowing to completely verbalize thoughts before responding. Our results provide preliminary support
Exercise training for chronic heart failure (ExTraMATCH II): individual participant data meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

Prof Rod Taylor (Chief Investigator) University of Exeter Medical School and University of Glasgow, UK Dr Sarah Walker University of Exeter Medical School, UK Dr Oriana Ciani University of Exeter Medical School, UK and Centre for Research on Health and Social Care Management, Bocconi University, Milan, Italy Dr Fiona C Warren University of Exeter Medical School, UK Professor Neil A Smart University of New England, Australia Professor Massimo Piepoli –Guglielmo da Saliceto Hospital, Italy Associate Professor Constantinos H Davos – Academy of Athens, Greece
Multi-channel Low-noise receiver and transmitter for 76-81 GHz automotive radar systems in 65 nm CMOS

This paper presents the design and characteristics of a receiver and a transmitter in 65-nm CMOS technology for automotive radar systems covering dual radar bands of 76 GHz and 79 GHz. The receiver has a 4-channel fully differential configuration for DBF systems. A unit receiver achieves a single-side band noise figure of 12 dB at an IF range from 1 to 200 kHz using a low 1/f-noise double-balanced resistive mixer and a low-noise differential amplifier. Using an on-chip multi-channel DAC, the receiver maintains a constant conversion gain with varying temperature by means of the fine control of gate bias voltages. The transmitter has a 2-channel configuration for multi-transmitting mode and includes a frequency PLL synthesizer. The transmitter achieves a phase noise of -84 dBc/Hz at a 100 kHz offset using an XOR-type phase detector and a 49-MHz reference. Due to the wider frequency circuit operation of frequency dividers and a VCO, the frequency synthesizer in the transmitter achieves a 76-81 GHz frequency range operation. We demonstrate 5-GHz band width FMCW and 10-μs fast-FM signal generation using the transmitter.
Adequacy Checking of Personal Software Development Effort Estimation Models Based upon Fuzzy Logic: A Replicated Experiment

Existen dos fases principales en el uso de un modelo de estimacion: (1) se debe determinar si el modelo es adecuado para describir los datos observados (reales), eso es, la comprobacion de la adecuacion del modelo o verificacion del mismo; si este resultara adecuado, entonces (2) el modelo de estimacion se valida en su ambiente usando datos nuevos. Este articulo esta relacionado con la primera etapa. Se presenta una investigacion dirigida a la comparacion de Sistemas de Logica Difusa (SLD) personales. Estos SLD se derivan a partir de un experimento replicado con base en una muestra de diez desarrolladores, asi como en un proceso de desarrollo comun dentro de un entorno controlado. En seis de los diez casos, las pruebas de rango multiple de la Magnitud del Error Relativo (MER) por tecnica, muestran que la logica difusa es ligeramente mejor que la regresion simple. Estos resultados muestran que un SLD podria ser utilizado como alternativa para la estimacion del esfuerzo de desarrollo de software a nivel personal
Automatic Labeling of Sensor Data Based on Object Tracking and Recognition

The number of single-person households of seniors is increasing nowadays in many developed countries. In such kind of super-aging societies, solitary death is becoming a social problem. To solve the problem, we may use a smart home system to monitor the resident with cameras or voice recorders. But such devices have a big privacy issue. As an alternative solution, we are trying to develop a not-so-smart system. Specifically, the system considered in this study is a sparse array of infrared sensors. The sensor output is binary, and its state depends heavily on many factors (e.g., location, activity, and orientation of the subject). Thus, to define the "labels" of the data is not easy. In this paper, we study sensor data labeling based on video data. The rationale is that video data can help us to define/modify the labels both in real-time and afterward. Also in our sensor experiments, for the purpose to examine the infrared sensor recognize the activity strength for hand clapping motion as the first step. That is the reason, also we set the task to recognize the speed of hitting the hand by using the video data. So that during experiment a subject can move around and take some specified actions without having to stop frequently to mark the data.
Particle-Hole Symmetric Localization Problems in One and Two Dimensions

Particle-hole symmetric localization problems are studied in low dimensions with the emphasis on understanding the origin of the observed singularities in the low-energy density of states. Pure imaginary random hopping and bipartite random hopping problems are considered. In quasi-1D geometry, such systems generically exhibit localized behavior, and are also found to have power-law density of states with nonuniversal dynamical exponents. Griffiths-like mechanism is identified that generates the singularly many low-energy states. Distinct localized phases are separated by delocalized critical points, and at these points the density of states has strong Dyson singularity near the band center. Similar mechanism is argued to be operative in all particle-hole symmetric localized phases in any dimension. Higher-dimensional systems can also exhibit true metallic or critical delocalized phases, and one such system—the 2D bipartite random hopping problem—is studied in great detail. General such system is known to exhibit critical behavior and a density of states that diverges stronger than any integrable power-law. Crucial to understanding the origin of this behavior is a particular model—the random vector potential model—which is critical and has a power-law density of states with a continuously varying dynamical exponent. This model is shown to undergo a dynamical transition from a weak-disorder regime to a strongdisorder regime, with the dynamical exponent changing its behavior, and in the strong-disorder regime the low-energy states are identified with local extrema of the defining two-dimensional Gaussian surface. This dynamical transition is a counterpart of the static transition known to occur in this system, thus completing the available physical picture of the random vector potential model. In the general case, this “surface fluctuation” mechanism, combined with a well-known RG treatment of a vortex glass problem, leads to a proposal of the asymptotic behavior of the density of states ρ(E) ∼ E−1e−| lnE|2/3 different from previous predictions. Analytical and numerical arguments are given in support of this picture.