Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Why Firms Diversify: An Empirical Examination

There is substantial evidence to suggest that the market placed a lower value on diversified firms than on specialized firms during the 1980s, yet many firms diversified anyway. This article addresses why firms diversify in the first place. We use the Compustat Industry Segment database in order to identify and analyze a sample of firms that begin the study period as single-segment entities and then subsequently choose to diversify. We find evidence to support two of three possible agency cost hypotheses. Not all reported segment changes represent true economic events. Moreover, analysis of the differences between true economic diversifiers and firms whose segment change represents a nonsubstantive reporting change suggests that inadvertent inclusion of the latter in diversification studies may bias results, especially with respect to firm liquidity and q.
Gender Classification Using Interlaced Derivative Patterns

Automated gender recognition has become an interesting and challenging research problem in recent years with its potential applications in security industry and human-computer interaction systems. In this paper we present a novel feature representation, namely Interlaced Derivative Patterns (IDP), which is a derivative-based technique to extract discriminative facial features for gender classification. The proposed technique operates on a neighborhood around a pixel and concatenates the extracted regional feature distributions to form a feature vector. The experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the IDP method for gender classification, showing that the proposed approach achieves 29.6% relative error reduction compared to Local Binary Patterns (LBP), while it performs over four times faster than Local Derivative Patterns (LDP).
Another Way to Sum a Series: Generating Functions, Euler, and the Dilog Function

Abstract It is tempting to try to reprove Euler's famous result that using power series methods of the sort taught in calculus 2. This leads to , the evaluation of which presents an obstacle. With two key identities the obstacle is overcome, proving the desired result. And who discovered the requisite identities? Euler! Whether he knew of this proof remains to be discovered.
Controllability of Second Order Leader-Follower Systems

Abstract In this paper we study formation control of a network of communicating mobile agents with double integrator dynamics. All agents run a consensus algorithm, several leader agents are further subject to an external input. We put this problem in a control theoretical framework and show that the controllability of the entire system via external control input depends only on the controllability of the follower system through the leaders. We then show necessary and sufficient conditions for the follower system to be controllable and relate the obtained conditions to the existing results on topological properties of the follower communication graph.
Cubic subfields of exceptional simple Jordan algebras

Let E/k be a cubic field extension and J a simple exceptional Jordan algebra of degree 3 over k. Then E is a reducing field of J if and only if E is isomorphic to a (maximal) subfield of some isotope of J. If k has characteristic not 2 or 3 and contains the third roots of unity then every simple exceptional Jordan division algebra of degree 3 over k contains a cyclic cubic subfield.
Predictors of Infections following Cranioplasty: A Retrospective Review of a Large Single Center Study

Introduction. The variables that predispose to postcranioplasty infections are poorly described in the literature. We formulated a multivariate model that predicts the risk of infection in patients undergoing cranioplasty. Method. Retrospective review of all patients who underwent cranioplasty following craniectomy from January, 2000, to December, 2011. Tested predictors were age, sex, diabetic status, hypertensive status, reason for craniectomy, urgency status of craniectomy, location of cranioplasty, reoperation for hematoma, hydrocephalus postcranioplasty, and material type. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed. Results. Three hundred forty-eight patients met the study criteria. Infection rate was 26.43% (92/348). Of these cases with infection, 56.52% (52/92) were superficial (supragaleal), 43.48% (40/92) were deep (subgaleal), and 31.52% (29/92) were present in both the supragaleal and subgaleal spaces. The predominant pathogen was coagulase-negative staphylococcus (30.43%) followed by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (22.83%) and methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (15.22%). Approximately 15.22% of all cultures were polymicrobial. Multivariate analysis revealed convex craniectomy, hemorrhagic stroke, and hydrocephalus to be associated with an increased risk of infection (OR = 14.41; P < 0.05, OR = 4.33; P < 0.05, OR = 1.90; P = 0.054, resp.). Conclusion. Many of the risk factors for infection after cranioplasty are modifiable. Recognition and prevention of the risk factors would help decrease the infection's rate.
A Prospective Randomized Study of Brain Tissue Oxygen Pressure-Guided Management in Moderate and Severe Traumatic Brain Injury Patients

The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of PbtO2-guided therapy with traditional intracranial pressure- (ICP-) guided treatment on the management of cerebral variables, therapeutic interventions, survival rates, and neurological outcomes of moderate and severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients. From 2009 to 2010, TBI patients with a Glasgow coma scale <12 were recruited from 6 collaborative hospitals in northern Taiwan, excluding patients with severe systemic injuries, fixed and dilated pupils, and other major diseases. In total, 23 patients were treated with PbtO2-guided management (PbtO2 > 20 mmHg), and 27 patients were treated with ICP-guided therapy (ICP < 20 mmHg and CPP > 60 mmHg) in the neurosurgical intensive care unit (NICU); demographic characteristics were similar across groups. The survival rate in the PbtO2-guided group was also significantly increased at 3 and 6 months after injury. Moreover, there was a significant correlation between the PbtO2 signal and Glasgow outcome scale-extended in patients from 1 to 6 months after injury. This finding demonstrates that therapy directed by PbtO2 monitoring is valuable for the treatment of patients with moderate and severe TBI and that increasing PaO2 to 150 mmHg may be efficacious for preventing cerebral hypoxic events after brain trauma.
Exchange Rate, Expected Profit and Capital Stock Adjustment: Japanese Experience

This paper empirically investigates the impact of exchange rate shocks on capital stock adjustment in the Japanese industry. An intertemporal optimization model is developed, in which an individual corporation in an open economy adjusts its capital stock according to Tobin's q. By explicitly considering the marginal q, the transmission mechanism from real exchange rate shocks to investment dynamics is examined based on the Vector Autoregressive model. Empirical evidence suggests that the depreciation of the Japanese yen increases the expected profitability of the firm and stimulates investment, especially in the machinery sector.
Long-term Saving in Thailand: Are we saving enough and what are the risks?

This paper seeks to gain a better understanding of the saving process in Thailand, given its important implications on the future path of the current account, capital stock accumulation, and growth. As the current account may continue to register a deficit in the next couple of years, there will be more and more questions from policymakers on how to lessen the pressure on the current account by increasing the level of domestic saving. This paper will seek to understand the dynamics of savings at both the macro and micro levels. Using current cross-sectional data, we find pockets of under-savers at the household level, particularly households with low income and low education. We find that the fall in household savings to GDP has been due to the rise in household consumption propensity across all cohorts. We also analyze the implications of demographic trends on household savings in the medium-term. At the macro level, we find that the household savings rate partly depends on the real interest rate. Furthermore, we find that the present saving rate is not adequate for maintaining both growth and current account stability. We conclude with a discussion of the policy implications. Given the increased need for saving at the macroeconomic level and the potential for households to save more, policymakers should design savings schemes focusing on households. In particular, we address how government agencies may promote more long-term saving? Among which groups? And what are the appropriate policy tools? Given the multifaceted nature of savings, an enlightened savings policy should serve to promote both macroeconomic stability and household sector welfare. Indeed, as the pressure on the current account increases in the coming years, policymakers will find that the two goals are not necessarily contradictory. Aggregate saving can be increased through targeting household saving without impinging on household welfare.
Pharmacogenomics of Adrenergic Receptors; from Hypertension to Heart Failure

Cardiovascular medicine is a leading area of pharmacogenomics (PGx). A number of PGx studies have linked genetic polymorphisms to patients' response to the drugs in the pharmacotherapy against cardiovascular diseases. Among them, PGx of adrenoceptors is one of the most important fields, because adrenergic networks play important roles in car- diovascular systems. The excess of adrenergic stimuli result in cardiovascular disorders, such as hypertension and heart failure (HF). One of the aims of PGx studies of adrenoreceptors is the personalization of β-blocker therapy. In this review, we have described biological and clinical impacts on genetic variants of adrenoreceptors, some of which have showed clear association with the reduction in heart rate and blood pressure in response to β-blockers. Beyond anti-hypertension therapy, PGx of adrenoreceptors would contribute to the individualization of pharmacotherapy against HF.
Effect of Haptic Material and Number of Intraocular Lens on Anterior Capsule Contraction after Cataract Surgery

Purpose To evaluate changes over time of the anterior capsule opening size after phacoemulsification, based on haptic number and composition of three acrylic intraocular lenses (IOLs). Methods Fifty-five patients (70 eyes) were included. All underwent phacoemulsification followed by implantation of either an acrylic IOL with two-haptic (one-piece, 26 eyes; three-piece, 22 eyes), or four-haptic (one-piece, 22 eyes). The area of the anterior capsule opening size was measured one week postoperatively (baseline) and at three months. Results There was a significant reduction in the area of the anterior capsule opening from one week as compared to three months postoperatively in all groups (p < 0.001). However, there was no significant difference in the reduction in the anterior capsule opening between the IOLs (p = 0.36). Conclusions The number and material of the haptic of the three acrylic IOLs did not influence the degree of anterior capsule opening shrinkage.
Constant mean curvature surfaces and integrable equations

CONTENTS Introduction Chapter I. Compact surfaces of constant mean curvature 1. Differential equations of constant mean curvature surfaces 2. Sphere. Hopf theorem 3. Torus. Analytic formulation of the problem 4. Surfaces of higher genus Chapter II. Constant mean curvature tori 5. Doubly periodic solutions of the equation 6. The Baker-Akhiezer function. Analytic properties 7. The Baker-Akhiezer function. Explicit formulae 8. Reality 9. Formula for immersion 10. Periodicity conditions 11. Area 12. Wente tori 13. Singular spectral curves Chapter III. Constant mean curvature surfaces in S3 and H314. Equations of constant mean curvature surfaces in S3 and H3 15. Constant mean curvature spheres in S3 and H3 16. Constant mean curvature tori in S3 17. Minimal tori in S3 and Willmore tori 18. Constant mean curvature tori in H3 19. Minimal surfaces of higher genus in S3 Appendix. Painleve planes of constant mean curvature References
Persistent Hypoglycemia in Patient with Hodgkin's Disease

Hypoglycemia is a rare complication of Hodgkin's disease. Several explanations have been postulated but the exact pathophysiology is not well understood. We are presenting a case of newly diagnosed Stage IV Hodgkin's disease that developed persistent and recurrent hypoglycemia despite giving glucagon, repeated 50% dextrose, and D5 and D10 continuous infusion. Hypoglycemia workup showed the C-peptide level to be low. Patient was suspected of having hypoglycemia related to lymphoma and was given a trial of prednisone which resolved the hypoglycemic episodes and made the patient euglycemic for the rest of his hospital stay. The presence of a substance that mimicked the effects of insulin was highly suspected. Several case reports strengthen the hypothesis of an insulin-like growth factor or antibodies secreted by the cancer cells causing hypoglycemia in Hodgkin's disease but none of them have been confirmed. Further investigation is warranted to more clearly define the pathophysiology of persistent hypoglycemia in patients with Hodgkin's disease.
"Please Do Not Feed the Homeless:" The Role of Stereotyping and Media Framing on the Criminalization of Homelessness

Homelessness is a critical social and economic problem in the U.S., with approximately 3.5 million people experiencing homelessness in a given year (National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty [NLCHP], 2004). Over the past 25 years, many U.S. cities have adopted increasingly punitive policies (e.g., sleeping bans, restrictions on sharing food with homeless people) to address rising rates of homelessness and people living in public spaces (National Coalition for the Homeless [NCH], 2006). Media representations of homelessness play an important role in fostering support for anti-homeless ordinances (e.g., Kendall, 2005; Iyengar, 1990). This study examined media framing of homeless people and policies related to homelessness in five U.S. cities. Los Angeles, Atlanta, and Orlando were selected for analysis based on their ranking as three of the top "ten meanest cities" for homeless people in the report, Homes not Handcuffs: The Criminalization of Homelessness in U.S. Cities (NLCHP & NCH, 2009). Two progressive cities, Portland and Seattle, were chosen as contrasts to these "mean" cities. A content analysis of 402 newspaper articles and 184 editorials and op-eds from key periods surrounding the passage of restrictive homeless ordinances in each city was conducted. The overarching goals of the analysis were twofold: (1) to deconstruct the framing of homelessness in mainstream newspapers; and (2) to offer a social psychological analysis of relationships among stereotypes, attributions for homelessness, and the criminalization of homelessness. Findings indicate that homeless people were frequently described in terms of stigmatized characteristics (e.g., mentally ill) and behaviors (e.g., substance use, crime), while positive characterizations (e.g., hardworking) were rare. Moreover, policy discussions tended to focus on individual behaviors (e.g., panhandling, sleeping outdoors) rather than structural causes of homelessness (e.g., lack of affordable housing). Supporters of anti-homeless ordinances relied on stereotypes of homelessness and framed the issue as crime prevention and addressing public safety and health. Critics maintained that the policies violated civil liberties and emphasized the need for structural-level solutions. Implications for people experiencing homelessness and the consequences of restrictive homeless policies are discussed.
KENYA ’ S FERTILITY TRANSITION : HOW LOW WILL IT GO ?

The principal sources of information on the rapid fall in fertility in Kenya since 1980 are, first, the birth histories compiled in the Kenya Fertility Survey (KFS) of 1977-78 and the three Demographic and Health Surveys (KDHS) of 1989, 1993 and 1998, and, second, the data on children ever born and on births in the last twelve months obtained in the population censuses of 1969, 1979, 1989 and 1999.
New Insights about Treg and Th17 Cells in HIV Infection and Disease Progression

Treg and Th17 cell subsets are characterized by the expression of specific transcriptional factors and chemokine receptor as well as by secretion of specific cytokine and chemokines. These subsets are important to the differentiation, expansion, homing capacity, and recruitment of several different immune cell populations to the site of infection. Whereas Treg cells maintain self-tolerance and control the activation and expansion of autoreactive CD4+ T effector cells through an anti-inflammatory response, Th17 cells, in an exacerbated unregulated proinflammatory response, can promote autoimmunity. Despite such apparently opposite functions, Th17 and Treg cells share common characteristics, and their differentiation pathways are interconnected. Recent studies have revealed quite intricate relations between Treg and Th17 cells in HIV infection and progression to AIDS. Considering Treg cells, different subsets were already investigated in the context of HIV infection, indicating a fluctuation in the total number and frequency throughout the disease course. This review focuses on the recent findings regarding the role of regulatory T and Th17 cells in the context of HIV infection, highlighting the importance of the balance between these two subsets on disease progression.
Working during School and Academic Performance

Unique new data from a college with a mandatory work‐study program are used to examine the relationship between working during school and academic performance. Particular attention is paid to the importance of biases that are potentially present because the number of hours that are worked is endogenously chosen by the individual. The results suggest that, even if results appear reasonable, a researcher should be cautious when drawing policy conclusions about the relationship between hours worked and a particular outcome of interest unless he or she is confident that potential problems associated with the endogeneity of hours have been adequately addressed.
Risk preferences of Kwazulu-Natal commercial sugar cane farmers

A direct elicitation of utility approach is used to measure risk preferences of commercial sugar cane farmers in the Mzimkulu, Sezela and Eston sugarmill areas of KwaZulu-Natal. Arrow- Pratt absolute risk aversion coefficients are elicited, adjusted for both range and scale of the data, to allow both inter and intra study comparisons of risk preferences. Of 53 farmers surveyed, two refused to participate in lottery games for religious or moral reasons. Of the remainder 57.2 percent were risk averse, 29.6 percent risk neutral and 13.2 percent risk preferring. On average they were risk averse although risk preferences vary significantly amongst individuals. Regression analysis indicates that on average sugar cane farmers are averse to a possible loss in wealth relative to initial wealth and they exhibit increasing absolute risk aversion although at a decreasing rate with increasing gamble range.
Four Cases of Taenia saginata Infection with an Analysis of COX1 Gene

Human taeniases had been not uncommon in the Republic of Korea (=Korea) until the 1980s. The prevalence decreased and a national survey in 2004 revealed no Taenia egg positive cases. However, a subsequent national survey in 2012 showed 0.04% (10 cases) prevalence of Taenia spp. eggs suggesting its resurgence in Korea. We recently encountered 4 cases of Taenia saginata infection who had symptoms of taeniasis that included discharge of proglottids. We obtained several proglottids from each case. Because the morphological features of T. saginata are almost indistinguishable from those of Taenia asiatica, molecular analyses using the PCR-RFLP and DNA sequencing of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) were performed to identify the species. The PCR-RFLP patterns of all of the 4 specimens were consistent with T. saginata, and the cox1 gene sequence showed 99.8-100% identity with that of T. saginata reported previously from Korea, Japan, China, and Cambodia. All of the 4 patients had the history of travel abroad but its relation with contracting taeniasis was unclear. Our findings may suggest resurgence of T. saginata infection among people in Korea.
Protective effect of resveratrol on spermatozoa function in male infertility induced by excess weight and obesity

Male infertility is a complex, multifactorial and polygenic disease that contributes to ~50% cases of infertility. Previous studies have demonstrated that excess weight and obesity factors serve an important role in the development of male infertility. An increasing number of studies have reported that resveratrol may regulate the response of cells to specific stimuli that induce cell injury, as well as decrease germ cell apoptosis in mice or rats. In the present study, the semen quality and serum sex hormone levels were evaluated in 324 men, which included 73 underweight, 82 normal weight, 95 overweight and 74 obese men. All patients were referred to The Reproductive Medicine Center of Shanxi Women and Infants Hospital (Taiyuan, China) between January 2013 and January 2015. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of resveratrol treatment on the motility, plasma zinc concentration and acrosin activity of sperm from obese males. The sperm concentration, normal sperm morphology, semen volumes, DNA fragmentation rates and testosterone levels in men from the overweight and obese groups were markedly decreased when compared with men in the normal weight group. In addition, the progressive motility, seminal plasma zinc concentration and spermatozoa acrosin activity were notably decreased in the obese group compared with the normal weight group. However, estradiol levels were significantly increased in the overweight, obese and underweight groups compared with the normal weight group. Notably, semen samples from obese males with astenospermia treated with 0–100 µmol/l resveratrol for 30 min demonstrated varying degrees of improvement in sperm motility. When these semen samples were treated with 30 µmol/l resveratrol, sperm motility improved when compared to other doses of resveratrol. Therefore, 30 µmol/l resveratrol was selected for further experiments. Upon treatment of semen samples with resveratrol (30 µmol/l) for 30 min, the seminal plasma zinc concentration and spermatozoa acrosin activity increased significantly in the experimental group compared with the control group. These data suggest that male obesity negatively impacts on male reproductive potential, not only through altering hormone levels, but also by directly altering sperm function. In addition, resveratrol may have a therapeutic and protective effect against obesity-induced abnormalities in semen.