Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The challenges of monitoring national climate policy: learning lessons from the EU

ABSTRACT One of the most central and novel features of the new climate governance architecture emerging from the 2015 Paris Agreement is the transparency framework committing countries to provide, inter alia, regular progress reports on national pledges to address climate change. Many countries will rely on public policies to turn their pledges into action. This article focuses on the EU’s experience with monitoring national climate policies in order to understand the challenges that are likely to arise as the Paris Agreement is implemented around the world. To do so, the research employs – for the first time – comparative empirical data submitted by states to the EU’s monitoring system. Our findings reveal how the EU’s predominantly technical interpretation of four international reporting quality criteria – an approach borrowed from reporting on GHG fluxes – has constrained knowledge production and stymied debate on the performance of individual climate policies. Key obstacles to more in-depth reporting include not only political concerns over reporting burdens and costs, but also struggles over who determines the nature of climate policy monitoring, the perceived usefulness of reporting information, and the political control that policy knowledge inevitably generates. Given the post-Paris drive to achieve greater transparency, the EU’s experience offers a sobering reminder of the political and technical challenges associated with climate policy monitoring, challenges that are likely to bedevil the Paris Agreement for decades to come. Policy relevance The 2009 Copenhagen summit ushered in a more bottom-up system of international climate governance. Such systems typically depend on strong monitoring approaches to assess past performance and estimate future national contributions over time. This article shows why decision makers at multiple governance levels should pay serious attention to empirical data on the experiences and challenges that have emerged around monitoring in the EU, a self-proclaimed climate leader. The analysis highlights key political and administrative challenges that policy makers will likely encounter in implementing climate policy monitoring and ensuring transparency in the spirit of the Paris Agreement.
Reconceptualising Children’s Agency as Continuum and Interdependence

Although the idea that children are social actors is well-recognised within childhood studies, the structural contexts shaping child agency and the everyday practices that manifest in children’s social relationships with other generations are not fully elucidated. This article identifies and discusses multiple and often contradictory concepts of agency as well as a framework for re-conceptualizing it as a continuum, and as interdependent. The central argument I make is that there is a need to go beyond the recognition that children are social actors to reveal the contexts and relational processes within which their everyday agency unfolds. It is also vital to ask what kind of agency children have, how they come by and exercise it, and how their agency relates them to their families, communities, and others. The article draws on research and ongoing debates on the life worlds of children in diverse African contexts in order to critically demonstrate how their agency is intersected by experience, societal expectations, gender, geography, stage of childhood, and social maturity. In so doing, the contextualized discussions and reflections have implications to rethink childhood and child agency elsewhere.
Expression and self-assembly of recombinant capsid protein from the antigenically distinct Hawaii human calicivirus

The Norwalk and Hawaii viruses are antigenically distinct members of the family Caliciviridae and are considered to be important etiologic agents of epidemic gastroenteritis, with most studies focusing on the role of Norwalk virus. To further investigate the importance of Hawaii virus, Hawaii virus-like particles (VLPs) were produced by expression of its capsid protein in the baculovirus system and these VLPs were used as the antigen in an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay that was efficient in the detection of a serologic response to Hawaii virus. The ready availability of Hawaii VLPs should enable larger-scale epidemiological studies to further elucidate the importance of this agent.
Jmy regulates oligodendrocyte differentiation via modulation of actin cytoskeleton dynamics

During central nervous system development, oligodendrocytes form structurally and functionally distinct actin‐rich protrusions that contact and wrap around axons to assemble myelin sheaths. Establishment of axonal contact is a limiting step in myelination that relies on the oligodendrocyte's ability to locally coordinate cytoskeletal rearrangements with myelin production, under the control of a transcriptional differentiation program. The molecules that provide fine‐tuning of actin dynamics during oligodendrocyte differentiation and axon ensheathment remain largely unidentified. We performed transcriptomics analysis of soma and protrusion fractions from rat brain oligodendrocyte progenitors and found a subcellular enrichment of mRNAs in newly‐formed protrusions. Approximately 30% of protrusion‐enriched transcripts encode proteins related to cytoskeleton dynamics, including the junction mediating and regulatory protein Jmy, a multifunctional regulator of actin polymerization. Here, we show that expression of Jmy is upregulated during myelination and is required for the assembly of actin filaments and protrusion formation during oligodendrocyte differentiation. Quantitative morphodynamics analysis of live oligodendrocytes showed that differentiation is driven by a stereotypical actin network‐dependent “cellular shaping” program. Disruption of actin dynamics via knockdown of Jmy leads to a program fail resulting in oligodendrocytes that do not acquire an arborized morphology and are less efficient in contacting neurites and forming myelin wraps in co‐cultures with neurons. Our findings provide new mechanistic insight into the relationship between cell shape dynamics and differentiation in development.
Latitudinal Gradients of Galactic Cosmic Rays during the 2007 Solar Minimum

Ulysses, launched in 1990 October in the maximum phase of solar cycle 22, completed its third out-of-ecliptic orbit in 2008 February. This provides a unique opportunity to study the propagation of cosmic rays over a wide range of heliographic latitudes during different levels of solar activity and different polarities in the inner heliosphere. Comparison of the first and second fast latitude scans from 1994 to 1995 and from 2000 to 2001 confirmed the expectation of positive latitudinal gradients at solar minimum versus an isotropic Galactic cosmic ray distribution at solar maximum. During the second scan in mid-2000, the solar magnetic field reversed its global polarity. From 2007 to 2008, Ulysses made its third fast latitude scan during the declining phase of solar cycle 23. Therefore, the solar activity is comparable in 2007-2008 to that from 1994 to 1995, but the magnetic polarity is opposite. Thus, one would expect to compare positive with negative latitudinal gradients during these two periods for protons and electrons, respectively. In contrast, our analysis of data from the Kiel Electron Telescope aboard Ulysses results in no significant latitudinal gradients for protons. However, the electrons show, as expected, a positive latitudinal gradient of ~0.2% per degree. Although our result is surprising, the nearly isotropic distribution of protons in 2007-2008 is consistent with an isotropic distribution of electrons from 1994 to 1995.
The relationship between happiness and the desire for hospitality mediated by tourist self-image and destination image

This research is justified by the need to broaden the theory about consumer behavior in tourism and the importance of improving commercial practices. The main objective of this study is to analyze the relationship between the search for happiness in the tourist experience and the desire for local hospitality, mediated by the congruence between the tourist's self-image and the destination image. A survey yielded 221 completed questionnaires. We took a quantitative approach to data analysis using multiple linear regression technique, and the results indicate a significant and positive relationship between the search for happiness in the tourist experience and the desire for local hospitality, mediated by the congruence of tourists self-image (how they see themselves) and tourist destination image. The originality of this study is to identify the self-image of the tourist and tourist destination as factors mediating the perception of local hospitality.
Targeting Fat Talk Frequency: Changes Associated with Participation in the Body Project

The Body Project is an evidence-based eating disorder prevention program. The program targets fat talk, the self-deprecating communication about one’s dissatisfaction with one’s weight and shape. Fat talk, family fat talk, and concern about one’s weight are all correlated with body image disturbances and contribute to eating disorder development, especially in adolescent girls. Despite this, there is a gap in the research that evaluates the extent to which the Body Project intervention impacts fat talk frequency. In the current study, we predicted that fat talk frequency, family fat talk frequency, and weight concern would all significantly decrease from baseline to post-intervention among high school-aged girls who participated in the peer-led Body Project. Results were consistent with the hypotheses, demonstrating that the Body Project is associated with decreases in fat talk and weight concern among participants, and in participant perceptions of their families. This suggests the possible evidence of social diffusion among this intervention, as the decrease in fat talk frequency reached beyond the participants of the Body Project. Future studies should aim to investigate which aspects of the Body Project are most effective at decreasing fat talk frequency, the extent to which changes in fat talk mediate improvements in disordered eating risk, and the extent to which decreases extend in school communication beyond participants involved in the Body Project (i.e. other members of student body).
Mammography Self-Efficacy Scale and Breast Cancer Fear Scale: Psychometric Testing of the Turkish Versions

Background: Self-efficacy for mammography and breast cancer fear are important determinants to mammography use. No tools to measure these beliefs of Turkish women have been validated. Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess the psychometric characteristics of the Turkish versions of the Mammography Self-Efficacy Scale (MSS-T) and the Champion Breast Cancer Fear Scale (CBCFS-T). Methods: Mammography Self-Efficacy Scale and Champion Breast Cancer Fear Scale were translated to Turkish language, validated by an expert panel, back translated, and tested. Cronbach &agr; coefficients and item-total correlations were measured to evaluate the reliability of the scales. Exploratory factor analysis was used to estimate construct validity of the scales. Independent t tests, &khgr;2 tests, and logistic regression analyses were used to test theoretical relationships. Results: Factor analysis yielded 1 factor for MSS-T and 2 factors for CBCFS-T with eigenvalues greater than 1. Internal consistency values presented acceptable Cronbach &agr; levels of . 90 for MSS-T and . 90 for CBCFS-T, and test-retest reliability correlations were 0.56 for MSS-T and 0.60 for CBCFS-T. Conclusions: The MSS-T and CBCFS-T demonstrated acceptable preliminary values of reliability and validity. Further psychometric testing is recommended with women living in different regions of Turkey. Implications for Practice: The scales can offer insights to nurses and other healthcare professionals about mammography self-efficacy beliefs, emotional needs, and concerns of Turkish women related to breast cancer fear. The scales may be useful as process measures to assess the efficacy of interventions designed to alter self-efficacy and fear and subsequently improve the mammography rates.
On the parabolic kernel of the Schr 6 dinger operator

Table of contents w 0. Introduction . 153 w 1. Gradient estimates . 155 w 2. Harnack inequalities . 166 w 3. Upper bounds of fundamental solutions . 170 w 4. Lower bounds of fundamental solutions . 181 w 5. Heat equation and Green's kernel . 190 w 6. The Schr6dinger operator . 196 Appendix . 199 References . 200
Molecular epidemiology of β-thalassemia in Pakistan: Far reaching implications

BACKGROUND: β -Thalassaemia, an autosomal recessive hemoglobinopathy, is one of the commonest genetically transmitted disorders throughout the world. Collective measures including carrier identification, genetic counseling and prenatal diagnosis are required for preventing β-thalassemia. Aim: To achieve this objective, Identification of the spectrum of genetic mutations, especially for various ethnic backgrounds in Pakistan. Therefore, we designed a cross sectional prospective study to identify the frequency of various gene mutations in different ethnic groups of Pakistan. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Over a 5-year period, DNA from 648 blood samples {including specimens of chorionic villus sampling (CVS)} were analyzed for the twelve most common β-thalassemia mutations found in the Pakistani population by a Multiplex amplification refractory mutation system (ARMS). Each sample was analyzed for the mutation as well as the normal gene, appropriate with negative and positive controls, and reagent blanks. RESULTS: Out of 648 samples mutations were identified in 640 (98.75%) samples by multiplex ARMS. 8 common β-thalassemia mutations were identified in 8 different ethnic groups accounting for 93.9% of the β-thalasemia alleles. CONCLUSIONS: Based on the outcome of this study a cost effective proposal is formulated for detection of β-thalassemia mutations.
Document de Travail Working Paper 2013-31 Blaise Gnimassoun

This paper aims at studying current-account imbalances by paying a particular attention to exchange-rate misalignments. We rely on a nonlinear model linking the persistence of currentaccount imbalances to the deviation of the exchange rate to its equilibrium value. Estimating a panel smooth transition regression model on a sample of 22 industrialized countries, we show that persistence of current-account imbalances strongly depends on currency misalignments. More specifically, while there is no persistence in cases of currency undervaluation or weak overvaluation, persistence tends to augment for overvaluations higher than 11%. In addition, whereas disequilibria are persistent even for very low overvaluations in the euro area, persistence is observed only for overvaluations higher than 14% for non-eurozone members. JEL classification: F32, F31, C33.
Determination of the mental foramen position in dental radiographs in 18-30 year olds.

OBJECTIVES To determine the radiographic position and reliability of assessing mental foramen (MF) position in relation to premolar crowns in an 18- to 30-year-old UK-based population. METHODS Following ethical approval and a power calculation, the position of the MF was recorded in relation to premolar crowns and apices in 100 dental panoramic tomographs. Positions were assessed by three senior clinicians independently, then by consensus. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, χ(2) and Fleiss' and Cohen's kappa. RESULTS Reliability data showed only fair to moderate agreement on independent scoring. Substantial to almost perfect agreement was achieved by consensus, demonstrating the most common position for the MF to be between the first and second premolar teeth when using both premolar crowns (51%) and apices (76%) as reference points. There was a significant difference in the position of the foramen between the left and right sides (p < 0.05), with only 62% of cases showing symmetry. CONCLUSIONS The most common position for the MF is between the first and second premolar teeth; however, anatomical variation is seen. Use of pre-operative radiographs to relate the position of the MF to premolar crowns may not be reliable.
Impact of Trust on Local Residents’ Mega-Event Perceptions and Their Support

This study examines the influence of residents’ trust in government and organizing committee on their impact perceptions and support for a mega-event, namely, 2014 FIFA World Cup. Findings suggest significant relationships between impact perceptions and support. While trust in government is found to be a significant determinant of impact perceptions, findings indicate no significant relationship between trust in government and support, which suggest that the relationship is mediated by impact perceptions. While a positive relationship between trust in the organizing committee and positive impact perceptions is found, findings suggest no significant relationship between trust in the organizing committee and negative impact perceptions. Trust in the organizing committee is also found to have significant positive impact on support.
Pre-Service Elementary Teachers ’ Knowledge of Number Properties and Patterns in the Context of early Algebra

The purpose of this study was twofold: 1) investigate preservice teachers’ knowledge of the associative property for addition and multiplication and the distributive; 2) investigate preservice teachers’ knowledge of explicit and recursive representation of numerical pattern. In the Common-Core State Standard for Mathematics (CCSSM), fifth-grade students are expected to recognize the usefulness of number properties in simplifying and interpreting numerical expressions. In the CCSSM, fifth-grade students are also expected to learn to analyze patterns and relationships and to generate a numerical pattern given a rule. So, this study was conducted to examine preservice elementary teachers’ knowledge of the content they are eventually expected to teach.
A Challenge to Traditional Framing Research

This article examines framing research and the challenges posed to this model by al Jazeera. The study argues that traditional framing scholarship might not be applicable to analyzing al Jazeera and other satellite channels because it presumes the impact of political elites on the framing process, conceives of the media as hegemonic, is idiosyncratic to the American media and power arrangements, and does not account for new information communication technologies. Al Jazeera, on the other hand, is a satellite channel relatively autonomous from domestic media regulations and national power structures, originated in the continuously evolving media landscape and sociopolitical context of the Middle East, and has been considered a counter-hegemonic force in the Arab world that challenges its dominant social discourse and the existing political order.
TECHNOLOGICAL BREAKTHROUGHS IN SCREENING/BREEDING WHEAT VARIETIES FOR SALT TOLERANCE

Salinity is a major and increasing problem in irrigated areas world-wide and, although much effort has been put into the development of salt-tolerant wheat there has been little impact in farmers’ fields. It is argued that to a large extent this is due to a lack of consideration of waterlogging in programmes designed to breed for salinity tolerance. This paper describes recently-developed screening techniques for use in the development of salt-tolerant, and saltand waterlogging-tolerant, wheat genotypes and recent advances in breeding for tolerance, but is not intended to provide a comprehensive review of breeding and screening techniques. Developments in screening under controlled field conditions using sprinkler and drip irrigation systems are described and their benefits and drawbacks noted. The potential for the development of tolerant wheats through hybridisation with wild relatives which show enhanced tolerance, including the development of Tritypyrum, is discussed, and progress in this field noted. Rapid progress has been made in improving yields in through the use of farmer-participatory breeding and selection methods, and an outline scheme for such a programme is presented. A screening technique for testing for combined salinity and waterlogging tolerance is proposed. It is concluded that, although progress has been slow, the availability of the new techniques will lead to much more rapid progress in the future.
Exercise and Personal Income Level are Independently Associated with Health-Related Quality of Life in Patients with Newly Diagnosed Stable Angina

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is the most common clinical type of Cardiovascular Disease (CVD), which is the leading cause of morbidity and disability worldwide [1]. Because of considerable advances in the treatment and management of CAD in recent decades, the number of CAD patients in lowand middle-income countries continues to increase [2]. Moreover, some research has shown that patients with CAD exhibited poor Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQL) [3], which is an important indicator in evaluating patient-centered health outcomes, the impact of disease burden, and the effectiveness of treatment interventions. Nevertheless, evidence regarding factors associated with HRQL in CAD patients using outpatient services is lacking, particularly with respect to common factors in daily life.
Ocular complications after a sub-tenon injection of triamcinolone acetonide for uveitis.

BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to evaluate the complications of a sub-Tenon injection of triamcinolone acetonide in patients with uveitis. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed the records of uveitis cases treated from 1999 to 2003 in Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital. Thirty patients (45 eyes), who received a sub-Tenon injection of 0.5 ml of a triamcinolone acetonide suspension for uveitis control, were included, and 16 (26 eyes) of these patients underwent intraocular pressure (IOP) monitoring for over 3 months after the procedure. RESULTS The incidence of ocular penetration was 1.6% and of rapidly progressive cataracts was 13.3%. The incidence of ocular hypertension (>21 mmHg) was 76.9% (20/26). The ocular hypertension in most cases was controlled with topical medications, with recovery of normal IOP. Long-term topical antiglaucoma medication was given for 3 eyes, and another 3 eyes (11.5%) received a trabeculectomy performed by glaucoma specialists. The incidence of glaucoma during the follow-up period after treatment is 23.1% (6/26). CONCLUSIONS The 23.1% incidence of glaucoma in this study is higher than expected. Careful pretreatment evaluation and post-treatment monitoring of IOP are mandatory for patients with uveitis receiving a sub-Tenon injection of triamcinolone acetonide.
Efficient class-E power amplifier for variable load operation

In this paper, a GaN HEMT class-E power amplifier (PA) has been designed for efficiently operating under variable load resistance at the 750 MHz frequency band. The desired zero voltage switching (ZVS) of the device can be approximated for a wide range of resistive loads, by means of a simple inductive impedance inverter, derived from [1]. The load-pull contours, obtained from simulations, allowed the drain terminating network to be properly adjusted in order to maximize the output power control while at the same time minimizing losses. Once the amplifier was implemented, an efficiency over 76% has been measured at 9.6 dB power back-off, with a peak of 85% at 50 Ω. In addition, the efficiency stays as high as 75% for a 150 MHz frequency range.