Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Uniqueness of multiangular measurements. I. An indicator of subpixel surface heterogeneity from MISR

The recent availability of quasi-simultaneous multispectral and multidirectional measurements from space, as provided by the Multi-angle Imaging SpectroRadiometer (MISR) on board the Terra platform, offers new and unique opportunities to document the anisotropy of land surfaces at critical solar wavelengths. This paper presents simple physical principles supporting the interpretation of the anisotropy of spectral radiances exiting terrestrial surfaces in terms of a signature of surface heterogeneity. The shape of the anisotropy function is represented with two model parameter values which may be mapped and interpreted in their own right. The value of one of these parameters also permits identifying geophysical conditions where the surface heterogeneity becomes significant and where three-dimensional (3D) radiation transfer effects have to be explicitly accounted for. This paper documents these findings on the basis of results from a number of 3D radiation transfer model simulations. The latter are used to perform an extensive sensitivity study which includes issues related to the scale of investigation. A preliminary validation of these results, conducted with a dataset collected by the AirMISR instrument over the Konza prairie, is also discussed.
Seasonal patterns of viral and bacterial infections among children hospitalized with community-acquired pneumonia in a tropical region

Abstract Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a common cause of morbidity among children. Evidence on seasonality, especially on the frequency of viral and bacterial causative agents is scarce; such information may be useful in an era of changing climate conditions worldwide. To analyze the frequency of distinct infections, meteorological indicators and seasons in children hospitalized for CAP in Salvador, Brazil, nasopharyngeal aspirate and blood were collected from 184 patients aged <5 y over a 21-month period. Fourteen microbes were investigated and 144 (78%) cases had the aetiology established. Significant differences were found in air temperature between spring and summer (p = 0.02) or winter (p < 0.001), summer and fall (p = 0.007) or winter (p < 0.001), fall and winter (p = 0.002), and on precipitation between spring and fall (p = 0.01). Correlations were found between: overall viral infections and relative humidity (p = 0.006; r = 0.6) or precipitation (p = 0.03; r = 0.5), parainfluenza and precipitation (p = 0.02; r = −0.5), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and air temperature (p = 0.048; r = −0.4) or precipitation (p = 0.045; r = 0.4), adenovirus and precipitation (p = 0.02; r = 0.5), pneumococcus and air temperature (p = 0.04; r = −0.4), and Chlamydia trachomatis and relative humidity (p = 0.02; r = −0.5). The frequency of parainfluenza infection was highest during spring (32.1%; p = 0.005) and that of RSV infection was highest in the fall (36.4%; p < 0.001). Correlations at regular strength were found between several microbes and meteorological indicators. Parainfluenza and RSV presented marked seasonal patterns.
Distracted decision makers: ship noise and predation risk change shell choice in hermit crabs

Human-induced rapid environmental change such as noise pollution alters the ability of animals to integrate information cues. Many studies focus on how noise impacts single sensory channels but in reality animals rely on multimodal sources of information. In this study, we investigated the effect of anthropogenic noise and the visual presence of a predator on tactile information gathering during gastropod shell assessment in the European hermit crab Pagurus bernhardus. For hermit crabs, empty gastropod shells are a crucial resource affecting growth, reproduction, and survival. We measured shell assessment behavior and manipulated 1) the shell size (50% or 80% of the optimal), 2) sound condition (ship or ambient), and 3) visual predator cue (absence/presence). Overall we found that crabs were less likely to accept an optimal shell in the presence of ship noise, suggesting that exposure to ship noise disrupted the information gathering ability of the crabs. We also found a significant interaction between noise, predator presence, and shell size on the mean duration for the final decision to accept or reject the optimal shell. Hermit crabs in 50% shells took less time for their final decision when exposed to both ship noise and predator cue while crabs in 80% shells showed shorter decision time only when the predator cue was absent. Our results indicate that anthropogenic noise can interact with predation threat and resource quality to change resource acquisition, suggesting that noise pollution can disrupt behavior in a nonadditive way, by disrupting information use across multiple sensory channels.
Exchange Rates and Macro News in Emerging Markets

This paper uses a VAR-GARCH(1,1) model to analyse mean and volatility spillovers between macro news (in the form of newspaper headlines) and the exchange rates vis-a-vis both the US dollar and the euro of the currencies of a group of emerging countries including the Czech Republic, Hungary, Indonesia, Korea, Mexico, Poland, South Africa, Thailand and Turkey over the period 02/1/2003-23/9/2014. The results suggest limited dynamic linkages between the first moments compared to the second moments, causality-in-variance being found in a number of cases. The conditional correlations also provide evidence of co-movement. Finally, the recent global financial crisis appears to have had a significant impact.
Predicting postoperative hydrocephalus in 227 patients with skull base meningioma.

OBJECT Some patients develop communicating hydrocephalus after meningioma surgery, and this can develop into a serious clinical condition. However, this has rarely been addressed in the literature. Therefore, the authors sought to determine predictive patient variables for the occurrence of postoperative hydrocephalus following skull base meningioma surgery. METHODS For this purpose, the authors retrospectively analyzed all patients who underwent resection of intracranial meningiomas between 1998 and 2009 at the Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Zurich, Switzerland. Of 594 patients with meningioma, 227 (38%) had a lesion located at the skull base, and thus were included for analysis. The following patient variables were examined: demographic data (age and sex); tumor number (solitary vs multiple); tumor side and localization within the skull base region (anterior, medial, posterior); infiltration of the cavernous sinus; compression of the optic channel/optic nerve; tumor volume; preoperative embolization (yes/no); duration of surgery; Simpson grade of resection; histopathological features (WHO grade); number of surgeries (single vs multiple); preoperative embolization; duration of hospital stay; tumor recurrence; use of an artificial dural substitute; postoperative infection rate; and clinical outcome (Glasgow Outcome Scale score at discharge and at 3 months, and vital status at last follow-up). Hierarchical clustering, factor analysis, and stepwise regression models revealed a ranking list for the top predictive variables for the occurrence of postoperative hydrocephalus. RESULTS A total of 35 patients (5.9%) of the cohort of 594 developed communicating postoperative hydrocephalus, with no patient manifesting obstructive hydrocephalus. Of these 35 patients, 18 had a meningioma located at the skull base (18 [7.9%] of 227), in contrast to 17 patients with meningiomas in other locations (17 [4.6%] of 367). The following patient variables correlated with the occurrence of hydrocephalus, as defined by factor analysis: age, duration of surgery, duration of hospital stay, tumor volume, postoperative infection, and preoperative embolization. A stepwise regression analysis of the latter variables identified 2 variables as significantly predictive: age (p = 0.0012) and duration of surgery (p = 0.0013). CONCLUSIONS In this study, the incidence of communicating postoperative hydrocephalus was almost twice as high in patients with skull base lesions as in patients with meningiomas in other locations. Patient age, duration of surgery, duration of hospital stay, tumor volume, postoperative infection, and preoperative embolization were associated with the occurrence of hydrocephalus. In the statistical prediction model, patient age and duration of surgery were the most significant predictors of postoperative hydrocephalus after skull base meningioma surgery.
Equity retention and social network theory in equity crowdfunding

This paper makes two contributions to research on the new entrepreneurial finance context of equity crowdfunding. First, we compare its regulation around the world and discuss how this impacts the development of markets. Second, we investigate the signaling role played toward external investors by equity retention and social capital. Using a sample of 271 projects listed on the UK platforms Crowdcube and Seedrs in the period 2011–2014, we find that campaigns launched by entrepreneurs (1) who sold smaller fraction of their companies at listing and (2) had more social capital had higher probabilities of success. Our results combine findings in classical entrepreneurial finance settings, like venture capital and IPOs, with evidence from other, non-equity crowdfunding markets.
Biologically Closed Electrical Circuits in Venus Flytrap[OA]

The Venus flytrap (Dionaea muscipula Ellis) is a marvel of plant electrical, mechanical, and biochemical engineering. The rapid closure of the Venus flytrap upper leaf in about 0.1 s is one of the fastest movements in the plant kingdom. We found earlier that the electrical stimulus between a midrib and a lobe closes the Venus flytrap upper leaf without mechanical stimulation of trigger hairs. The Venus flytrap can accumulate small subthreshold charges and, when the threshold value is reached, the trap closes. Here, we investigated the electrical properties of the upper leaf of the Venus flytrap and proposed the equivalent electrical circuit in agreement with the experimental data.
On coding without restrictions for the AWGN channel

Many coded modulation constructions, such as lattice codes, are visualized as restricted subsets of an infinite constellation (IC) of points in the n-dimensional Euclidean space. The author regards an IC as a code without restrictions employed for the AWGN channel. For an IC the concept of coding rate is meaningless and the author uses, instead of coding rate, the normalized logarithmic density (NLD). The maximum value C/sub /spl infin// such that, for any NLD less than C/sub /spl infin//, it is possible to construct an PC with arbitrarily small decoding error probability, is called the generalized capacity of the AWGN channel without restrictions. The author derives exponential upper and lower bounds for the decoding error probability of an IC, expressed in terms of the NLD. The upper bound is obtained by means of a random coding method and it is very similar to the usual random coding bound for the AWGN channel. The exponents of these upper and lower bounds coincide for high values of the NLD, thereby enabling derivation of the generalized capacity of the AWGN channel without restrictions. It is also shown that the exponent of the random coding bound can be attained by linear ICs (lattices), implying that lattices play the same role with respect to the AWGN channel as linear-codes do with respect to a discrete symmetric channel. >
A Photo Elicitation Study on Chronically Ill Adolescents’ Identity Constructions During Transition

Adolescence is an important phase of life with increasing independence and identity development, and a vulnerable period of life for chronically ill adolescents with a high occurrence of insufficient treatment adherence. We conducted four photo elicitation focus group interviews with 14 adolescents (12-20 years) with juvenile idiopathic arthritis to investigate identity constructions during transition. Using a discourse analysis approach, six identity types were identified distributed on normal and marginal identities, which were lived either at home (home arena) or outside home with peers (out arena). Most participants positioned themselves as normal in the out arena and as ill in the home arena. Few participants positioned themselves as ill in an out arena, and they described how peers perceived this as a marginal and skewed behavior. This study contributes to a better understanding of why it can be extremely difficult to live with a chronic illness during adolescence.
Microbial risk assessment with special focus on antibiotic residues in mastitic buffalo milk

Fifty buffaloes(healthy and mastitic udders) were milked aseptically from separate regions of Kaliobia governorate . California mastitis test (CMT) and bacteriological examination were achieved . Upon susceptibility testing (12) antibiotics were used to explain different susceptibility patterns of the isolated bacteria The objective of this study was the detection of oxytetracycline, sulphadimidine, penicillin G and ampicillin residues in raw buffalo’s milk. 45 samples of raw milk ( 13 for oxytetracycline ,11 for sulphadimidine , 11 for penicillin G and 10 for ampicillin) were collected from private farms in Banha at Kaliobia Governorate. The period of exiperiment was JanuaryMarch 2015 and the sample was analyzed with high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method . Out of the samples examined for oxytetracycline 30.76% ( 4 /13) were found to contain oxytetracycline residues and 54.5% (6/11) were found to contain sulfonamide residue . The amount of oxytetracycline in positive milk samples were found 452 ng/ml, 560 ng/ml, 1475 ng/ml and 2833 ng/ml which are much higher than WHO and FD recommended level. While, sulphadimidine residue was detected in the range of 3-22 ng/ml in 2 samples and 28 44 ng/ml in 4 samples which were lower than WHO and FD recommended level. Penicillin G and ampicillin residues did not found in the examined milk samples. This study indicates the presence of oxytetracycline residues more than allowed amount. Regulatory authorities should ensure proper withdrawal period before milking the animals and definite supervisions are necessary on application of these drugs.
The middle class and the future of London

The broad aim of the research is to investigate the social and economic consequences of the middleclass settlement of inner London in recent decades in order to assess whether there are variations between different areas. A subsidiary aim will be to investigate the relationships between the middle class and other social groups in these neighbourhoods and whether, if these differ, the quality of these relationships can be related to the area and the social composition of the groups involved. Have the middle class exacerbated social exclusion in the city as some claim (Smith 1996)?
Poly(trimethylene carbonate) as an elastic biodegradable film for human embryonic stem cell‐derived retinal pigment epithelial cells

Human embryonic stem cell‐derived retinal pigment epithelial (hESC‐RPE) cell therapies show tremendous potential for the treatment of retinal degenerative diseases. A tissue engineering approach, where cells are delivered to the subretinal space on a biodegradable carrier as a sheet, shows great promise for these RPE cell therapies. The aim of the present study was to assess whether a flexible, elastic and biodegradable poly(trimethylene carbonate) (PTMC) film promotes the formation of functional hESC‐RPE and performs better than often used biodegradable poly(d,l‐lactide) (PDLLA) film. Human ESC‐RPE maturation and functionality on PTMC films was assessed by cell proliferation assays, RPE‐specific gene and protein expression, phagocytic activity and growth factor secretion. It is demonstrated that the mechanical properties of PTMC films have close resemblance to those of the native Bruch's membrane and support the formation hESC‐RPE monolayer in serum‐free culture conditions with high degree of functionality. In contrast, use of PDLLA films did not lead to the formation of confluent monolayers of hESC‐RPE cells and had unsuitable mechanical properties for retinal application. In conclusion, the present study indicates that flexible and elastic biodegradable PTMC films show potential for retinal tissue engineering applications. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Microsurgical vasoepididymostomy with sperm cryopreservation for future assisted reproduction

Abstract Background Although obstructive azoospermia is treatable with microscopic seminal reconstruction, the number of patients who choose to undergo vasoepididymostomy is limited because of recent advances in assisted reproductive technology (ART). We attempted to define the outcome of surgical reconstruction in patients with suspected epididymal obstruction and no previous history of vasectomy.
Matrix remodeling in healing rabbit Achilles tendon

Biochemical, biomechanical and ultrastructural properties of the connective tissue matrix were investigated during the early remodeling phase of tissue repair in experimentally tenotomized and repaired rabbit Achilles tendons. Sterile surgical tenotomy was performed on the right Achilles tendons of 14 rabbits and allowed to heal for 15 days. The animals were euthanized and the Achilles tendons excised from both limbs. The left contralateral Achilles tendon of each rabbit was used as a control in the experiments. Prior to biochemical analysis, both intact and healing tendons were tested for their biomechanical integrity. The results revealed that the healing tendons had regained some of their physicochemical characteristics, but differed significantly from the intact left tendons. The healing tendons regained 48% tensile strength, 30% energy absorption, 20% tensile stress, and 14% Young’s modulus of elasticity of intact tendons. In contrast, biochemical analysis showed that the healing tendons had 80% of the collagen and 60% of the collagen crosslinks (hydroxypyridinium) of normal tendons. Sequential extraction of collagen from the tissues yielded more soluble collagen in the healing tendons than intact tendons, suggesting either an increase in collagen synthesis and/or enhanced resorption of mature collagen in healing tendons compared to intact tendons. Electron microscopic studies revealed remarkable differences in the ultrastructure between intact and healing tendons. These observations could explain, in part, the connective tissue response to healing during the early phases of tissue remodeling.
Assessing Global Potential Output Growth: April 2019

This note presents the updated estimates of potential output growth for the global economy through 2021. Global potential output is expected to grow by 3.3 per cent per year over the projection horizon. Two common themes are weighing on potential output growth across regions: trade disputes, which are reducing total factor productivity growth in the United States and China; and aging, which is having a negative impact on labour force participation in the United States, China, the euro area and Japan. While potential output growth is expected to remain fairly stable in the United States, there are offsetting dynamics across other regions. In emerging-market economies, potential growth is projected to strengthen, mainly due to a recovery of investment as well as structural reforms contributing to total factor productivity growth. Potential output is expected to slow in Japan, China and the euro area, as the effects on growth of population aging and declining labour inputs intensify in these regions over the next three years. A moderation in investment growth will also contribute to slower potential growth in China.
Option Pricing Under Time-Varying Risk-Aversion with Applications to Risk Forecasting

We present a two-factor option-pricing model, which parsimoniously captures the difference in volatility persistences under the historical and risk-neutral probabilities. The model generates an S-shaped pricing kernel that exhibits time-varying risk aversion. We apply our model for two purposes. First, we analyze the risk preference implied by S&P500 index options during 2001–2009 and find that risk-aversion level strongly increases during stressed market conditions. Second, we apply our model for Value-at-Risk (VaR) forecasts during the subprime crisis period and find that it outperforms several leading VaR models.
Measuring the Benefits of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to Consumers: Between De Minimis and Small?

Measuring the benefits to consumers from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac activities has received considerable attention, particularly in recent months. Recently, Federal Reserve Board Chairman Alan Greenspan commented in his U.S. Senate Banking Committee testimony on the Government Sponsored Enterprises that the benefits of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac as measured by the Jumbo-Conforming mortgage spread was "between de minimis and small. " The basis for Greenspan's comment is the seemingly small benefit to consumers in terms of the basis point spread (generally, 20 to 30 basis points). First, the estimates of the benefits may be too low if they fail to consider subsidies to commercial banks. Second, the dollar amount of the benefits to consumers ranges from $6.76 billion based on the Passmore et al (2005) study to quite large ($9.25 billion for the Cotterman and Pearce (1996) study. The adjusted Ambrose, LaCour-Little and Sanders (2004) spread generates benefits in the order of $7.89 billion.
Angiotensinogen and transforming growth factor β1: novel genes in the pathogenesis of Crohn’s disease

Background: Angiotensin peptides may act locally as cytokines in several organ systems with elevated mucosal levels present in Crohn’s disease. A variant in the angiotensinogen gene promoter results in increased peptide production, while transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1) codon 25 variants demonstrate variable peptide production, predisposing to fibrosis in several organs. Aims: Conduct an Australian-based analysis of the angiotensinogen-6 variant in two independent inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) cohorts, and examine the role of angiotensinogen-6 and TGFβ1 codon 25 variants in shaping Crohn’s disease phenotype. Methods: IBD Patients (Crohn’s disease = 347, ulcerative colitis = 147) and CD families (n = 148) from two cohorts, together with 185 healthy controls were genotyped for angiotensinogen-6. Genotype-phenotype analyses were performed for both angiotensinogen-6 and TGFβ1 codon 25. Results: Angiotensinogen-6 AA genotype was significantly associated with Crohn's disease (p = 0.007, OR = 2.38, CI = 1.32–4.32) in cohort 1, but not in the smaller cohort 2 (p = 0.19). The association remained significant when the two cohorts were combined (p = 0.008), and in a TDT family analysis (p = 0.03). TGF 1 codon 25 was associated with stricturing Crohn’s disease (p = 0.01, OR = 2.63, CI = 1.16–5.88) and a shorter time to intestinal resection (p = 0.06). Conclusions: The association of the angiotensinogen-6 variant with Crohn’s disease supports a potential role for angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor antagonists in disease treatment.