Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Day of the week effects on returns, price volatilties, and traded volume in foreign currency futures

Day-of-the-week effects are documented in five foreign currency futures, the German mark, the Swiss franc, the British pound, the Canadian dollar, and the Japanese yen. Patterns on price volatility and traded volume are detected which are distinct from the pattern on mean returns. In particular, the overnight return from Tuesday's closing to Wednesday's opening is significantly higher than overnight returns in other weekdays while trading returns are the same over different weekdays. On the other hand, there is evidence that the trading volatility of futures prices is lower on Mondays than the other weekdays, and traded volume appears to be highest on Tuesdays and lowest on Fridays.
Empirical and modeling evidence of regional atmospheric transport of current‐use pesticides

Water samples from 30 lakes in Canada and the northeastern United States were analyzed for the occurrence of 27 current‐use pesticides (CUPs). Eleven CUPs were frequently detected in lakes receiving agricultural inputs as well as in remote lakes hundreds of kilometers from known application areas. These included the triazine herbicide atrazine and its desethylated degradation product; the herbicides alachlor, metolachlor, and dacthal; the organophosphate insecticides chlorpyrifos, diazinon, and disulfoton; the organochlorine insecticides α‐endosulfan and lindane; and the fungicides chlorothalonil and flutriafol. For six of the pesticides, empirical half‐distances on the order of 560 to 1,820 km were estimated from the water‐concentration gradient with latitude. For most of the pesticides, a suite of assessment models failed to predict such atmospheric long‐range transport behavior, unless the effect of periods of lower hydroxyl radical concentrations and dry weather were taken into account. Observations and model results suggest that under the conditions prevailing in south‐central Canada (relatively high latitude, low precipitation rates), many CUPs will be able to undergo regional‐scale atmospheric transport and reach lakes outside areas of agricultural application. When assessing the potential of fairly reactive and water‐soluble substances to undergo long‐range transport, it is imperative to account for periods of no precipitation, to assure that degradation rate constants are correct, and to apply oxidant concentrations that are valid for the region and time period of interest.
Strength and wear resistance of a dental glass-ionomer cement with a novel nanofilled resin coating.

PURPOSE To evaluate the influence of different resin coating protocols on the fracture strength and wear resistance of a commercial glass-ionomer cement (GIC). METHODS A new restorative concept [Equia (GC Europe)] has been introduced as a system application consisting of a condensable GIC (Fuji IX GP Extra) and a novel nanofilled resin coating material (G-Coat Plus). Four-point fracture strength (FS, 2 x 2 x 25 mm, 14-day storage, distilled water, 37 degrees C) were produced and measured from three experimental protocols: no coating GIC (Group 1), GIC coating before water contamination (Group 2), GIC coating after water contamination (Group 3). The strength data were analyzed using Weibull statistics. Three-body wear resistance (Group 1 vs. Group 2) was measured after each 10,000 wear cycles up to a total of 200,000 cycles using the ACTA method. GIC microstructure and interfaces between GIC and coating materials were investigated under SEM and CLSM. RESULTS The highest FS of 26.1 MPa and the most homogenous behavior (m = 7.7) has been observed in Group 2. The coated and uncoated GIC showed similar wear resistance until 90,000 cycles. After 200,000 wear cycles, the coated version showed significantly higher wear rate (ANOVA, P< 0.05). The coating protocol has been shown to determine the GIC fracture strength. Coating after water contamination and air drying is leading to surface crack formation thus significantly reducing the FS. The resin coating showed a proper sealing of GIC surface porosities and cracks. In terms of wear, the coating did not improve the wear resistance of the underlying cement as similar or higher wear rates have been measured for Group 1 versus Group 2.
Analysis of biological prognostic factors using tissue microarrays in neuroblastic tumors

Neuroblastic tumors (NT) are pediatric neoplasms with a heterogeneous genetic profile. They present genotypic alterations of prognostic value, the study of which is mandatory in designing therapeutic management. Tissue microarrays (TMA) from paraffin material allow the analysis of a large number of cases with minimal costs. The main purpose of the present study is to analyze specific genetic markers of neuroblastic tumors included in TMAs and determine their prognostic value. We compare the results obtained by different molecular techniques at different substrates to evaluate the feasibility of these assays.
How do international norms matter? The impact of the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women in Italy

The role of the international norms in domestic politics is a central question in international relations. This article examines the major international treaty on the human rights of women, the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women, and its impact on Italian politics, specifically on domestic legislation, case law and civil society activism, and institutional structure. The research contributes to the general debate on international norms diffusion and implementation, and identifies the factors which enable states to comply with these norms.
Pharmacognostic standardization with various plant parts of Desmostachya bipinnata

Abstract Context: Desmostachya bipinnata (L.) Stapf [Gramineae (Poaceae)] has been traditionally used to treat various disorders such as asthma, kidney stone, diarrhea, wound healing, etc. Objective: The present study involves pharmacognostic, botanical, and preliminary phytochemical examination of various plant parts and powders of D. bipinnata. Materials and methods: Leaves, stem, roots, underground and aerial part powders were microscopically examined. Pharmacognostic standardization parameters were determined as per the WHO guidelines. Parameters, including extractive value in different solvents, ash values, and loss on drying, were determined. Preliminary phytochemical studies, fluorescence analysis, and chromatographic profiling were performed for the correct identification of this crude drug and some of its phytoconstituents. Results: Microscopical studies showed various characteristic features including, collateral vascular bundle, bundle sheath cells, and bulliform cells in leaf, conjoint, collateral and closed vascular bundles, and sclerenchymatous sheath in stem; and silica bodies in root. Phytochemical screening and chromatographic profile of aerial plant parts revealed the presence of alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, steroids, glycosides, and coumarins. Underground plants parts indicated the presence of glycosides, steroids, flavonoids, coumarins, and alkaloids. Discussion and conclusion: The results of the performed studies are helpful in correct identification, characterisation of D. bipinnata. Preliminary phytochemical studies and chromatographic profiling may be helpful in further isolation and purification of lead compounds from different extracts.
Nursing Roles in End-of-Life Decision Making in Critical Care Settings

This study used a grounded theory approach to formulate a conceptual framework of the nursing role in end-of-life decision making in a critical care setting. Fourteen nurses from an intensive care unit and cardio-respiratory care unit were interviewed. The core concept, Supporting the Journey, became evident in four major themes: Being There, A Voice to Speak Up, Enable Coming to Terms, and Helping to Let Go. Nurses described being present with patients and families to validate feelings and give emotional support. Nursing work, while bridging the journey between life and death, imparted strength and resilience and helped overcome barriers to ensure that patients received holistic care. The conceptual framework challenges nurses to be present with patients and families at the end of life, clarify and interpret information, and help families come to terms with end-of-life decisions and release their loved ones.
Data mining of coherent structures from turbulence tomographic TR-PIV signal database utilizing improved quadrant splitting method

In this paper, we calculated the spatial locally averaged velocity strains along the streamwise direction with four scales in the velocity vector field of turbulent boundary layer by utilizing the three-dimensional three-component database of time series of velocity field measured by tomographic time-resolved particle image velocimetry. We introduced an improved quadrant splitting method based on the spatial local-averaged velocity strains and a new conditional sampling phase average method as a data-mining criterion to detect and extract the inherent coherent structures from such turbulence signal database. Furthermore, we used the improved quadrant splitting method to obtain and investigate the spatial topologies of fluctuating velocity and fluctuating vorticity with four scales whose center was a strong second-quadrant event (Q2) or a fourth-quadrant event (Q4). Results illustrate that there is a better similarity of the multi-scale coherent structures in wall-normal direction than the one in other two dimensions.
Jaboticaba (Plinia peruviana) extract nanoemulsions: development, stability, and in vitro antioxidant activity

Abstract Objective: The aim of this work is to develop and characterize nanoemulsions containing jaboticaba extract (Plinia peruviana) aiming pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications. Methods: Nanoemulsions were prepared by high-pressure homogenization method using different concentrations of components (oil, surfactant, and extract) and homogenization pressures, in order to optimize the preparation conditions. Both unloaded and extract-loaded nanoemulsions were characterized according to their size, polydispersity, zeta potential, pH, morphology, and physical stability. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents in free jaboticaba extract and jaboticaba-loaded nanoemulsions were determined spectrophotometrically, while ellagic acid content was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis. In vitro antioxidant activity was investigated by 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) methods. Results: Colloidal dispersions exhibited a mean particle size around 200 nm, with monodisperse size distribution (PdI <0.3), and spherical shape. Stability studies showed that nanoemulsions were stable over 120 d of storage at room temperature. Jaboticaba nanoemulsions showed significant concentrations of phenolics, flavonoids, and ellagic acid, with encapsulation efficiency values higher than 90%. Antioxidant properties of jaboticaba nanoemulsions were demonstrated by its remarkable ability to scavenge DPPH free radicals and to reduce ferric–tripyridyltriazine complex, which can be attributed to their phenolic and flavonoid contents. Conclusions: The results suggest that nanoemulsions containing jaboticaba extract can be considered a promising candidate as a new antioxidant agent.
BR55: A Lipopeptide-Based VEGFR2-Targeted Ultrasound Contrast Agent for Molecular Imaging of Angiogenesis

Objectives:BR55, an ultrasound contrast agent functionalized with a heterodimer peptide targeting the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2), was evaluated in vitro and in vivo, demonstrating its potential for specific tumor detection. Materials and Methods:The targeted contrast agent was prepared by incorporation of a biospecific lipopeptide into the microbubble membrane. Experiments were performed in vitro to demonstrate the binding capacities of BR55 microbubbles on immobilized receptor proteins and on various endothelial or transfected cells expressing VEGFR2. The performance of BR55 microbubbles was compared with that of streptavidin-conjugated microbubbles targeted to the same receptor by coupling them to a biotinylated antibody. The specificity of BR55 binding to human and mouse endothelial cells was determined in competition experiments with the free lipopeptide, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), or a VEGFR2-specific antibody. Molecular ultrasound imaging of VEGFR2 was performed in an orthotopic breast tumor model in rats using a nondestructive, contrast-specific imaging mode. Results:BR55 was shown to bind specifically to the immobilized recombinant VEGFR2 under flow (dynamic conditions). BR55 accumulation on the target over time was similar to that of microbubbles bearing a specific antibody. BR55 avidly bound to cells expressing VEGFR2, and the pattern of microbubble distribution was correlated with the pattern of receptor expression determined by immunocytochemistry. The binding of targeted microbubbles on cells was competed off by an excess of free lipopeptide, the natural ligand (VEGF) and by a VEGFR2-specific antibody (P < 0.001). Although selected for the human receptor, the VEGFR2-binding lipopeptide was also shown to recognize the rodent receptor. Tumor perfusion was assessed during the vascular phase of BR55, and then the malignant lesion was highlighted by specific accumulation of the targeted microbubbles on tumoral endothelium. The presence of VEGFR2 was confirmed by immunofluorescence staining of tumor cryosections. Conclusions:VEGFR2-targeted ultrasound contrast agents such as BR55 will likely prove useful in human for the early detection of tumors as well as for the assessment of response to specific treatments.
IDO induction in IFN-γ activated astroglia: A role in improving cell viability during oxidative stress

Abstract In the central nervous system (CNS), astrocytes play an integral role in the maintenance of neuronal viability and function. Inflammation within the CNS increases the concentration of oxidative metabolites and, therefore, the potential for NAD depletion through increased poly-(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) activity. However, the activity of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), the rate limiting enzyme for de novo NAD synthesis, is also markedly increased in astrocytes during inflammation. This study investigated the role of IDO induction in the maintenance of intracellular NAD and its relationship to improved cell viability under conditions of increased oxidative stress in the human astroglioma cell line, HTB-138. Treatment with the pro-inflammatory cytokine IFN-γ increased IDO activity in these cells. Intracellular NAD levels also increased significantly after treatment with IFN-γ in the presence of a PARP inhibitor. Pretreatment of astroglial cells with IFN-γ significantly moderated both the drop in intracellular NAD concentration and cell death following exposure to hydrogen peroxide. These results suggest that induction of IDO and subsequent de novo NAD synthesis may contribute to the maintenance of intracellular NAD levels and cell viability under conditions of increased oxidative stress.
Market Share Growth and Stock Returns

We find a negative relationship between market share growth and subsequent stock returns, three‐ and four‐factor alphas. We report the potential explanatory role of market share growth in explaining subsequent average monthly stock returns. High (Low) market share growth firms report good (poor) operating performance and positive (negative) SUEs in the quarter in which market share growth is measured and investors overact to that good (bad) news. However, high (low) market share growth firms experience decrease (increase) in operating performance and SUEs in the subsequent quarters resulting in corrections in investors’ expectations and subsequent lower (higher) stock returns.
H5N2 Avian Influenza Outbreak in Texas in 2004: the First Highly Pathogenic Strain in the United States in 20 Years?

ABSTRACT In early 2004, an H5N2 avian influenza virus (AIV) that met the molecular criteria for classification as a highly pathogenic AIV was isolated from chickens in the state of Texas in the United States. However, clinical manifestations in the affected flock were consistent with avian influenza caused by a low-pathogenicity AIV and the representative virus (A/chicken/Texas/298313/04 [TX/04]) was not virulent for experimentally inoculated chickens. The hemagglutinin (HA) gene of the TX/04 isolate was similar in sequence to A/chicken/Texas/167280-4/02 (TX/02), a low-pathogenicity AIV isolate recovered from chickens in Texas in 2002. However, the TX/04 isolate had one additional basic amino acid at the HA cleavage site, which could be attributed to a single point mutation. The TX/04 isolate was similar in sequence to TX/02 isolate in several internal genes (NP, M, and NS), but some genes (PA, PB1, and PB2) had sequence of a clearly different origin. The TX/04 isolate also had a stalk deletion in the NA gene, characteristic of a chicken-adapted AIV. By analyzing viruses constructed by in vitro mutagenesis followed by reverse genetics, we found that the pathogenicity of the TX/04 virus could be increased in vitro and in vivo by the insertion of an additional basic amino acid at the HA cleavage site and not by the loss of a glycosylation site near the cleavage site. Our study provides the genetic and biologic characteristics of the TX/04 isolate, which highlight the complexity of the polygenic nature of the virulence of influenza viruses.
Is a planned cesarean necessary in twin pregnancies?

Objective. Evaluation of elective cesarean section for twin delivery as a standard of care. Design. Historical cohort in a national database (2 597 twin pregnancies). Setting. France. Sample. Twins with first child in cephalic presentation. Methods. Decision analysis. Main Outcome Measures. All neonatal complications, i.e. death, whether intrapartum or in the delivery room or the immediate postpartum period, or neonatal transfer to intensive (or special) care, or trauma, of one or both twins. Results. When we focused on neonatal complications for either or both twins, the strategy of planned vaginal delivery was preferable; the weight of its decision tree branch was lower than that for planned cesarean (26.5 vs. 31.7). If only twin 2 was considered, vaginal delivery was also preferred (weight of vaginal delivery=27.6 vs. 32.7 for planned cesarean). As long as the morbidity and mortality of twin 1 or twin 2 or both during a cesarean for twin 2 in the case of planned vaginal delivery does not exceed 31.5%, all else being equal, vaginal delivery should be preferred to a planned cesarean for twin 1 and twin 2. The two‐variable sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of the results. Conclusions. The results of our study do not support a policy of planned cesarean delivery for twin pregnancies at and after 34 weeks of gestation. Level of evidence: II.
Is the relationship between external debt and human development non-linear? A PSTR approach for developing countries

This paper examines the relationship between external debt and human development for a panel data set of 95 developing countries observed during the period 2002 â€“ 2015. By performing a Panel Smooth Threshold Regression (PSTR) model developed by GonzA lez et al. (2005), estimation results show that this relationship is non-linear and characterized by the presence of an optimal threshold of external debt equals to 41.7775%. Below this debt threshold, external debt has a positive effect on human development. Any 1% increase in the external debt ratio induces an increase in the HDI of 0.02%. However, above the debt threshold, external debt becomes detrimental to human development since HDI decreases by 0.01% when external debt ratio increases by 1%. In a low external debt regime, countries are encouraged not to exceed this threshold to benefit from the leverage effect, and to modify the structure of imports while avoiding unnecessary ones. In a high external debt regime, countries are complelled to reduce their external debt ratio to reach the optimal threshold, avoid the waste of highly remunerated foreign resources and know how to allocate them to the most productive sectors, and control their demographic growth.
Understanding young children's perceptions of their experiences with new technology in the nursery setting : an exploratory ethnographic study

New technology is increasingly part of children’s lives. While a growing body of literature has explored various aspects of nursery-aged children’s exposure to ICT, children are seldom asked about their experiences. With this in mind, this study sought to explore children’s perceptions of their experiences of ICT. This exploration was underpinned by current trends in the new sociology of childhood studies and the principles of United Nations Conventions on the Rights of the Child, both of which aim at giving a greater status to children’s voice. The thesis reports on a series of ethnographic case studies of three privately run nurseries in the West Midlands, England. It involved fieldwork observations, field notes, and discussions with 65 children aged three and four years old. In carrying out conversations with children, the study made use of some participatory techniques (e.g., photography and drawing). Adopting a friendly adult role, I participated with the children in their daily activities collecting information about their ideas and thoughts with regards to their experiences with new technology. Related ethical issues were discussed, and negotiated in the field. Using their own words, the study captured children’s own perspectives on their encounters with whatever technologies were available in the nurseries. The findings showed that the children tended to perceive their ICT-based activities as play under certain circumstances. Significantly, they were more likely to view these activities as play when they owned their play, felt it was fair, had fun, and felt it accorded with their gendered identities. Conversely, when the children did not have influence on the activity, they often perceived it as boring and unfair. In addition, there was a tension between a preference to conduct their play with a friend(s) and a desire for personal ownership of the experiences. Recommendations for pedagogical practice, policy and future research are suggested.
Eastern European Young People's Political and Community Engagement in the UK

Here to Stay? is a research project which explores the lives of young people who arrived in the UK as migrant children from Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). It focuses on young people aged 12-18 who migrated after the EU enlargement in 2004 and have lived in the UK for at least 3 years. The project explores how migration and current immigration policies are impacting their lives, how satisfied they are with local services, the quality of their relationships, and what are their feelings of identity and belonging in the UK. The study is important because it presents the first analysis since the Brexit Referendum on how current plans for Britain to leave the European Union are impacting on young Eastern Europeans’ lives. We have gathered the opinions and experiences of over 1,100 young people on a range of issues, including Brexit, their participation in communities and access to services, their experiences of racism and exclusion, their relationships, well-being and plans for future now that the UK is planning to leave the EU. These Briefings aim to inform a wide range of audiences on the experiences of young Eastern Europeans living in contemporary Britain. The Briefings should also help local authorities and other organisations develop policies and improve services for young people, taking into account their needs and experiences.