Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
CLASH-VLT: The stellar mass function and stellar mass density profile of the z=0.44 cluster of galaxies MACS J1206.2-0847

Context. The study of the galaxy stellar mass function (SMF) in relation to the galaxy environment and the stellar mass density profile, rho(r), is a powerful tool to constrain models of galaxy evolution. Aims. We determine the SMF of the z=0.44 cluster of galaxies MACS J1206.2-0847 separately for passive and star-forming (SF) galaxies, in different regions of the cluster, from the center out to approximately 2 virial radii. We also determine rho(r) to compare it to the number density and total mass density profiles. Methods. We use the dataset from the CLASH-VLT survey. Stellar masses are obtained by SED fitting on 5-band photometric data obtained at the Subaru telescope. We identify 1363 cluster members down to a stellar mass of 10^9.5 Msolar. Results. The whole cluster SMF is well fitted by a double Schechter function. The SMFs of cluster SF and passive galaxies are statistically different. The SMF of the SF cluster galaxies does not depend on the environment. The SMF of the passive population has a significantly smaller slope (in absolute value) in the innermost (<0.50 Mpc), highest density cluster region, than in more external, lower density regions. The number ratio of giant/subgiant galaxies is maximum in this innermost region and minimum in the adjacent region, but then gently increases again toward the cluster outskirts. This is also reflected in a decreasing radial trend of the average stellar mass per cluster galaxy. On the other hand, the stellar mass fraction, i.e., the ratio of stellar to total cluster mass, does not show any significant radial trend. Conclusions. Our results appear consistent with a scenario in which SF galaxies evolve into passive galaxies due to density-dependent environmental processes, and eventually get destroyed very near the cluster center to become part of a diffuse intracluster medium.
Structural Change in the External Balances Response to Macroeconomic Policies: Perspective from a Two‐Sector New Open Economy Macroeconomic Model

The response of the Japanese trade balance against expansionary macroeconomic policy shocks changed from positive to negative in the 1990s. With consideration of intratemporal (between tradable and nontradable goods) and intertemporal elasticity of substitutions, we investigate this cause using two‐sector new open economy macroeconomics (NOEM). Empirical methods, considering structural change, were applied and show that before the break, intratemporal elasticity of substitution dominates, but subsequently the relation inverted and intertemporal elasticity became predominant and hence, the theoretical response of trade balance changed. Finally, we verify this theoretical implication empirically by impulse response analysis of structural vector auto regression.
Oaxaca , México

The aim of this study was to determine the recreational use value of three coral reefs in the Bays of Huatulco (Bahías de Huatulco), Oaxaca, Mexico. In total, 263 domestic tourists were interviewed, and their socioeconomic pro le and perception of the coral reef they visited were determined. Using the contingent valuation method, a willingness to pay $ 48.4 for conservation activities was determined, as well as a net annual bene t from the reef of $18 243 629.40. The results of the study show the high economic potential of the reef ecosystems in Huatulco, which should guide public policy strategies for the conservation and sustainable management of the resource.
X-ray observations of the Compton-thick Seyfert 2 galaxy, NGC 5643

We present results from a ~55 ks long XMM-Newton observation of the obscured AGN, NGC 5643, performed in July 2009. A previous, shorter (about 10 ks) XMM-Newton observation in February 2003 had left two major issues open, the nature of the hard X-ray emission (Compton-thin vs Compton-thick) and of the soft X-ray excess (photoionized vs collisionally ionized matter). The new observation shows that the source is Compton-thick and that the dominant contribution to the soft X-ray emission is by photoionized matter (even if it is still unclear whether collisionally ionized matter may contribute as well). We also studied three bright X-ray sources that are in the field of NGC 5643. The ULX NGC 5643 X-1 was confirmed to be very luminous, even if more than a factor 2 fainter than in 2003. We then provided the first high quality spectrum of the cluster of galaxies Abell 3602. The last source, CXOJ143244.5-442020, is likely an unobscured AGN, possibly belonging to Abell 3602.
Evidence for unusual superconducting correlations coexisting with stripe order in La 1.875 Ba 0.125 CuO 4

We present new x-ray and neutron-scattering measurements of stripe order in ${\text{La}}_{1.875}{\text{Ba}}_{0.125}{\text{CuO}}_{4}$, along with low-field susceptibility, thermal conductivity, and specific-heat data. We compare these with previously reported results for resistivity and thermopower. Temperature-dependent features indicating transitions (or crossovers) are correlated among the various experimental quantities. Taking into account recent spectroscopic studies, we argue that the most likely interpretation of the complete collection of results is that an unusual form of two-dimensional superconducting correlations appears together with the onset of spin-stripe order. Recent theoretical proposals for a sinusoidally modulated superconducting state compatible with stripe order provide an intriguing explanation of our results and motivate further experimental tests. We also discuss evidence for one-dimensional pairing correlations that appear together with the charge order. With regard to the overall phenomenology, we consider the degree to which similar behavior may have been observed in other cuprates and describe possible connections to various puzzling phenomena in cuprate superconductors.
SPECTROPHOTOMETRIC, HPTLC AND GC-MS STUDIES ON SELECTED SPICE EXTRACTS

Objectives: The present work was carried out with a view to analyze the major phytochemical compounds of Indian spices, cumin ( Cuminum cyminum L.), fenugreek ( Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) and fennel ( Foeniculum vulgare Mill.). Methods: Hydro-alcoholic (30% ethanol in water, v/v) extracts were prepared from selected spices and analyzed for extract yield, loss on drying (LOD), pH and phytochemical compounds such as total alkaloids, phenols, flavonoids and tannins were quantified by spectrometric methods. High performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) and gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometer (GC-MS) techniques were employed to reveal the phytochemicals of selected spice extracts. Results: Hydro-alcoholic extracts from selected spices revealed the pH to be 5.36-5.62, loss on drying (12.54–15.41%) and extract yield (8.62–29.19%). Among the investigated samples, higher levels of alkaloids (2.032%) and tannins (0.809%) were found in fenugreek while fennel exhibited highest content of total phenolics (3.39%) and flavanoids (2.621%). The hydro-alcoholic extracts were subjected to HPTLC analysis and the results suggested the presence of three different major phytochemical compounds in cumin and fenugreek, whereas fennel extract displayed only one major peak. Cumin, fenugreek and fennel extracts showed relatively similar spots with Rf values of 0.51, 0.62, 0.90 and 0.97, which indicates the presence of four similar type of flavonoids in each extract. Presence of some volatile compounds in extracts was identified by GC-MS analysis. Conclusion: Due to the presence of various phytochemical constituents and favorable extract yield, LOD and pH, the presently investigated spice extracts could be used in drug formulations.
The value of (bounded) memory in a changing world

This paper explores the value of memory in decision making in dynamic environments. We examine the decision problem faced by an agent with bounded memory who receives a sequence of signals from a partially observable Markov decision process. We characterize environments in which the optimal memory consists of only two states. In addition, we show that the marginal value of additional memory states need not be positive and may even be negative in the absence of free disposal.
Area and individual differences in personal crime victimization incidence

This article examines how personal crime differences between areas and between individuals are predicted by area and population heterogeneity and their synergies. It draws on lifestyle/routine activities and social disorganization theories to model the number of personal victimization incidents over individuals including routine activities and area characteristics, respectively, as well as their (cross-cluster) interactions. The methodology employs multilevel or hierarchical negative binomial regression with extra binomial variation using data from the British Crime Survey and the UK Census. Personal crime rates differ substantially across areas, reflecting to a large degree the clustering of individuals with measured vulnerability factors in the same areas. Most factors suggested by theory and previous research are conducive to frequent personal victimization except the following new results. Pensioners living alone in densely populated areas face disproportionally high numbers of personal crimes. Frequent club and pub visits are associated with more personal crimes only for males and adults living with young children, respectively. Ethnic minority individuals experience fewer personal crimes than whites. The findings suggest integrating social disorganization and lifestyle theories and prioritizing resources to the most vulnerable, rather than all, residents of poor and densely populated areas to prevent personal crimes.
Markups and Welfare Costs of Business Cycles in Turkey

type="main"> The paper, using a simple theory-based measure of the variations in aggregate economic efficiency in a New Keynessian structure, analyses the nature of the business fluctuations and estimates their welfare costs in Turkey during the period 1998–2009. The measure contains two components: a price markup and a wage markup. It seems that the latter mainly drives the fluctuations in Turkey. The paper also shows that inefficient fluctuations in the allocation of resources do generate moderate welfare costs on average. However, the aggregate efficiency costs increase much more during deep recessions.
Effects of Nacl Stress on Seed Germination Attributes of Periwinkle (Catharanthus Roseus L.) and Corn Poppy (Papaver Rhoeas L.) Plants

Abstract The present research was conducted to evaluate the effects of salinized water with NaCl on seed germination of Periwinkle and Corn Poppy. Treatments were: A) H2O- distilled water (control); B) sodium chloride solutions (5, 10, 20, 40 and 80 mM). Application of the highest NaCl concentration (80mM) significantly reduced germination percentage and mean germination time of both species, although increased the day of 50% germination. Increment of salinity concentration was led to the reduction of radicle length in Periwinkle. The seedling fresh weight and water content and radicle length of Corn Poppy were decreased in both levels of 20 and 80 mM, and seedling dry weight was unaffected by treatments. It is concluded that both species are tolerant to NaCl salinity up to 80 mM during germination stage.
Do Wholesale Financiers Discipline Risky Banks ? Evidence from the Financial Crisis of 2008

Using US commercial bank data from 2002 to 2012, this paper investigates whether wholesale financiers discipline banks by withdrawing funds from risky ones or charging them higher interest rates. We focus on the impact of individual bank risks and market-common risks on the supply of wholesale funding. We find that market disciplinary behavior varies across the types of investors and types of risks. Both shortand long-term wholesale financiers disciplined risky banks during the precrisis period. However, neither of them was sensitive to bank risk during the crisis, when the US government implemented extensive rescue programs. The lack of market discipline continued in the post-crisis period, although the Dodd–Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act was enacted in 2010. These results are robust even after controlling for the effect of the Troubled Asset Relief Program, for the quantitative easing policy, and for credit demands of bank borrowers. JEL classification: G21, G28
A BIFURCATION ANALYSIS OF SPACE STRUCTURES BY USING 3 D BEAM-COLUMN ELEMENT CONSIDERING FINITE DEFORMATIONS AND BOWING EFFECT

The present paper describes the space frame element and the fundamental strategies in computational elastic bifurcation theory of geometrically nonlinear, single load parameter conservative elastic spatial structures. A method for large deformation (rotation) analysis of space frame is based on an Eulerian formulation, which takes into consideration the effects of large joint rotations with finite deformation(rotation). The local member force-deformation relationships are based on the beam-column approach, and the change in member chord lengths caused by axial strain and flexural bowing are taken into account. And the derived geometric stiffness matrix is asymmetric because of the fact that finite rotations are not commutative under addition. To detect the singular point such as bifurcation point, an iterative pin-pointing algorithm is proposed. And the path switching mode for bifurcation path is based on the non-negative eigen-value and its corresponding eigen-vector. Some numerical examples for bifurcation analysis for a plane frame, plane circular arch and space dome structures are described.
Vine vigor, yield and grape quality assessment by airborne remote sensing over three years: analysis of unexpected relationships in cv. Tempranillo.

The prediction of grape composition is becoming more important due to the need of reducing the current levels of alcohol and pH of the wines, a problem that is exacerbated by climate change. This work presents a 3-year study of the spatial variability of grape composition in a rainfed Tempranillo vineyard located in Rioja (Spain). It is based on the acquisition of multispectral imagery at veraison (start of the ripening process); and zoning based on NDVI, to assess its performance for zonal management. The results reveal a high spatial variability within the plot, with a stable pattern over the years, even with very different climate conditions. NDVI was a good predictor of vegetative growth variables. However, the prediction of grape composition was more complex. Unexpectedly, anthocyanins were found to be higher in the highest vigor zone, which is probably related to the effects of climate change. This unexpected relationship is particularly discussed in the article.
The role of endoscopic ultrasound in Crohn's perianal fistulas

37 INTRODUCTION Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory condition of the gastrointestinal tract. One of the more common manifestations of Crohn’s disease is perianal Crohn’s disease which includes perianal fistulas and abscesses. Based on population based studies, the lifetime risk of developing a fistula in a patient with Crohn’s disease is between 21%–23% (1,2). Significant morbidity can result from fistulizing Crohn’s disease, including scarring, abscesses, and even proctectomy in 10%-18% of cases (3–5). Several studies have shown that failure to correctly diagnose occult abscesses or fistulas can lead to recurrent disease, sphincter injury with risk of fecal incontinence, conversion of a simple fistula into a complex fistula, and further surgery (6–11). Once the fistulizing process becomes complex, chances for healing are greatly reduced (7). Therefore, it is imperative to correctly diagnose abscess and fistula anatomy in the early course of the disease, before starting treatment. An imaging modality such as endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) should be able to accurately assess the perianal process and guide medical and surgical therapy. PRESENTATION AND TREATMENT Patients with perianal Crohn’s disease will typically present with rectal pain, purulence or bloody discharge, or perianal swelling with associated erythema (Figure 1). Inspection and palpation of these areas is then done to further delineate the pathology present. However, because perianal Crohn’s disease leads to pain, induration and scarring, digital rectal exam (DRE), even by experienced colorectal surgeons, is very inaccurate (as low as 62% in one prospective study) (12). Therefore, it is useful to fully assess the perianal process with an imaging modality such as EUS and MRI prior to treatment. In fact, a recent retrospective series reported improved outcome for the patients with Crohn’s perianal fistulas when EUS was used to guide combination medical and surgical therapy (13). Frequently an exam under anesthesia may be required secondary to patient pain. Ideally this is done after the EUS so that the surgeon can use the ultrasound findings as a virtual roadmap. Surgical management can include procedures such as incision and drainage, fistulotomy, and the placement of non-cutting setons. Medical therapy typically involves agents such as antibiotics (ciprofloxacin or metronidazole), immunomodulators (azathioprine or 6-mercaptopurine), and infliximab. The best outcome for treatment of perianal fistulas in Crohn’s disease is achieved when surgical and medical management is combined (14–16). The Role of Endoscopic Ultrasound in Crohn’s Perianal Fistulas INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE: A PRACTICAL APPROACH, SERIES #20
Chapter 3 Chitosan from Marine Crustaceans : Production , Characterization and Applications

Chitosan is a very useful marine polysaccharide that forms structural components in the exoskeleton of crustaceans. In this chapter, the production of chitosan (CH) and chitosan reticulated micro/nanoparticles (CHM) is described. Three case studies corresponding to different effective applications of chitosan are discussed: (i) the performance of CH to destabilize oil/water emulsion waste for water clarification. It was observed that as long as colloidal charge was maintained around zero, turbidity also showed low values and water clarification was achieved. However, when the applied doses were higher than the optimum, colloidal charge and turbidity both increased, showing emulsion restabilization. Emulsions treated with the optimum chitosan doses were clarified in very short periods; (ii) CH and CHM were used as effective antibacterial agents against three different pathogenic microorganisms that are problematic for aquaculture: Vibrio alginolyticus and parahaemolyticus, and Lactococcus garvieae and the minimum bactericidal concentrations were determined; and (iii) the removal of hexavalent chromium and the comparative performance of CH versus CHM. Results showed that at pH < 2, the adsorption capacity of CHM was higher because CH is unstable. Additionally, Cr(VI) was adsorbed on CH without further reduction; in contrast, Cr(VI) adsorbed on CHM was reduced to nontoxic Cr(III).
Allen, Elizabeth A. and Palmateer, Norah Elizabeth and Hutchinson, Sharon and Cameron, Sheila O. and Goldberg, David J. and Taylor, Avril (2012) Association between harm reduction intervention uptake and recent hepatitis C infection among people who inject drugs attending sites

Background: Prevalence of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) among people who inject drugs (PWID) in Scotland is high. The Scottish Government has invested significantly in harm reduction interventions with the goal of reducing HCV transmission among PWID. In evaluating the effectiveness of interventions, estimates of HCV incidence are essential. Methods: During 2008–2009, PWID were recruited from services providing sterile injecting equipment across mainland Scotland, completed an interviewer-administered questionnaire and provided a dried blood spot for anonymous anti-HCV and HCV-RNA testing. Recent infections were defined as anti-HCV negative and HCV-RNA positive. Logistic regression was undertaken to examine associations between recent HCV infection and self-reported uptake of methadone maintenance therapy (MMT) and injection equipment. Results: Fifty-four percent (1367/2555) of participants were anti-HCV positive. We detected 24 recent HCV infections, yielding incidence rate estimates ranging from 10.8 to 21.9 per 100 person-years. After adjustment for confounders, those with high needle/syringe coverage had reduced odds of recent infection (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 0.32, 95% CI 0.10–1.00, p = 0.050). In the Greater Glasgow & Clyde region only, we observed a reduced odds of recent infection among those currently receiving MMT, relative to those on MMT in the last six months but not currently (AOR 0.04, 95% CI 0.001–1.07, p = 0.055). The effect of combined uptake of MMT and high needle/syringe coverage was only significant in unadjusted analyses (OR 0.34, 95% CI 0.12–0.97, p = 0.043; AOR 0.48, 95% CI 0.16–1.48, p = 0.203). Conclusion: We report the first large-scale, national application of a novel method designed to determine incidence of HCV among PWID using a cross-sectional design. Subsequent sweeps of this survey will increase statistical power and allow us to gauge the impact of preventive interventions. © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Multiple States In Open Channel Flow

Steady flow regimes in a free surface flow approaching an obstacle are described and extensively discussed. Attention is focused on the phenomenon of hydraulic hysteresis, and a simple one-dimensional theory to predict its occurrence in a supercritical channel flow is proposed. It is shown that in many cases knowledge of the Froude number of the undisturbed approaching flow and of a geometric characteristic of the obstacle allows for a reliable prediction of the flow state. In the region of multiple regimes, however, the previous history of the flow must also be known. Three different obstacles in a rectangular channel are considered, namely a sill, a vertical sluice gate, and a circular cylinder, and the theoretical boundaries of the hysteresis region are specified for each obstacle. The experimental results show that the theoretical predictions are consistent with experiments in the case of obstacles that do not affect channel width (i.e. sills and gates). On the contrary, in the case of channel contraction, a further parameter, which the presented theory does not account for, was found to affect the behavior of the flow, namely the ratio of undisturbed flow depth to contraction width. Finally, in the case of a vertical sluice gate it was found that hysteresis develops in a subcritical undisturbed approaching flow as well.