Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Constraining the Milky Way halo shape using thin streams

Tidal streams are a powerful probe of the Milky Way (MW) potential shape. In this paper, we introduce a simple test particle method to fit stream data, using a Markov Chain Monte Carlo technique to marginalise over uncertainties in the progenitor's orbit and the Milky Way halo shape parameters. Applying it to mock data of thin streams in the MW halo, we show that, even for very cold streams, stream-orbit offsets - not modelled in our simple method - introduce systematic biases in the recovered shape parameters. For the streams that we consider, and our particular choice of potential parameterisation, these errors are of order ~20% on the halo flattening parameters. However, larger systematic errors can arise for more general streams and potentials; such offsets need to be correctly modelled in order to obtain an unbiased recovery of the underlying potential. Assessing which of the known Milky Way streams are most constraining, we find NGC 5466 and Pal 5 are the most promising candidates. These form an interesting pair as their orbital planes are both approximately perpendicular to each other and to the disc, giving optimal constraints on the MW halo shape. We show that - while with current data their constraints on potential parameters are poor - good radial velocity data along the Pal 5 stream will provide constraints on qz - the flattening perpendicular to the disc. Furthermore, as discussed in a companion paper, NGC 5466 can provide rather strong constraints on the MW halo shape parameters, if the tentative evidence for a departure from the smooth orbit towards its western edge is confirmed.
The Crowding-Out Effect of Real Estate Markets on Corporate Innovation: Evidence from China

Real estate bubbles can increase collateral value, thus relaxing financial constraints, which might spur innovation. However, they might also crowd out R&D expenditures, thus stifling corporate innovation. This paper shows that real estate prices negatively affect both corporate R&D and patents in China, suggesting a strong crowding out effect. We further provide suggestive evidence that managerial myopia might partly account for the crowding out effect. Our study illustrates the innovation cost of a booming real estate market.
Parameters of bacterial killing and regrowth kinetics and antimicrobial effect examined in terms of area under the concentration-time curve relationships: action of ciprofloxacin against Escherichia coli in an in vitro dynamic model

Although many parameters have been described to quantitate the killing and regrowth of bacteria, substantial shortcomings are inherent in most of them, such as low sensitivity to pharmacokinetic determinants of the antimicrobial effect, an inability to predict a total effect, insufficient robustness, and uncertain interrelations between the parameters that prevent an ultimate determination of the effect. To examine different parameters, the kinetics of killing and regrowth of Escherichia coli (MIC, 0.013 microg/ml) were studied in vitro by simulating a series of ciprofloxacin monoexponential pharmacokinetic profiles. Initial ciprofloxacin concentrations varied from 0.02 to 19.2 microg/ml, whereas the half-life of 4 h was the same in all experiments. The following parameters were calculated and estimated: the time to reduce the initial inoculum (N0) 10-, 100-, and 1,000-fold (T90%, T99%, and T99.9%, respectively), the rate constant of bacterial elimination (k(elb)), the nadir level (Nmin) in the viable count (N)-versus-time (t) curve, the time to reach Nmin (t(min)), the numbers of bacteria that survived (Ntau) by the end of the observation period (tau), the area under the bacterial killing and regrowth curve (log N(A)-t curve) from the zero point (time zero) to tau (AUBC), the area above this curve (AAC), the area between the control growth curve (log N(C)-t curve) and the bacterial killing and regrowth curve (log N(A)-t curve) from the zero point to tau (ABBC) or to the time point when log N(A) reaches the maximal values observed in the log N(C)-t curve (I(E); intensity of the effect), and the time shift between the control growth and regrowth curves (T(E); duration of the effect). Being highly sensitive to the AUC, I(E), and T(E) showed the most regular AUC relationships: the effect expressed by I(E) or T(E) increased systematically when the AUC or initial concentration of ciprofloxacin rose. Other parameters, especially T90%, T99%, T99.9%, t(min), and log N0 - log Nmin = delta log Nmin, related to the AUC less regularly and were poorly sensitive to the AUC. T(E) proved to be the best predictor and t(min) proved to be the worst predictor of the total antimicrobial effect reflected by I(E). Distinct feedback relationships between the effect determination and the experimental design were demonstrated. It was shown that unjustified shortening of the observation period, i.e., cutting off the log N(A)-t curves, may lead to the degeneration of the AUC-response relationships, as expressed by log N0 - log Ntau = delta log Ntau, AUBC, AAC, or ABBC, to a point where it gives rise to the false idea of an AUC- or concentration-independent effect. Thus, use of I(E) and T(E) provides the most unbiased, robust, and comprehensive means of determining the antimicrobial effect.
DETERMINING THE EFFECTS OF COST LEADESRHIP AND MARKET ORIENTATION STRATEGIES ON SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRICE PERFORMANCE

Today’s business environment need cost leadership, market orientation practices to strive and generate superior performance and competitive advantage in the modern unstable market place. This study empirically examines the effect of cost leadership and market orientation strategies on performance in the context of SMEs in Nigeria. Data were gathered through self-administrated questionnaires directed to owners/managers of SMEs. The findings indicated that SMEs in Nigeria practiced cost leadership and market orientation as their core marketing strategy. Specifically, market orientation is positively linked to organizational performance but surprisingly, cost leadership strategy is insignificant to SMEs performance. Few studies have investigated the practices and effects of cost leadership, market orientation on performance in the Nigerian setting. Therefore, this study provided new insights into the understanding of cost leadership, market orientation practices in the Nigerian SMEs. In addition, the significance of this study, potential limitations, and future directions were highlighted.
Regulation of the Lim‐1 gene is mediated through conserved FAST‐1/FoxH1 sites in the first intron

The Lim‐1 gene encodes a LIM‐homeodomain transcription factor that is highly conserved among vertebrates and is required for successful gastrulation and head formation. The expression of this gene in the mesoderm of the gastrula is known to require an activin/nodal signal. Earlier studies have shown that the Xenopus Lim‐1 (Xlim‐1) gene contains an activin response element (ARE) in its first intron, which cooperates with an activin‐unresponsive upstream promoter in the regulation of the gene. Here, we show that the Xlim‐1 ARE contains a cluster of FAST‐1/FoxH1 and Smad4 recognition sites; such sites have been shown to mediate activin/nodal responses in other genes. By using reporter constructs with mutated FAST‐1/FoxH1 sites and FAST‐1/FoxH1 protein chimeras, we show that the regulation of Xlim‐1 by activin depends on FAST‐1/FoxH1 function. Comparative studies on the zebrafish lim1 gene indicate the presence of FoxH1 sites in the first intron of this gene and provide evidence for the requirement for FoxH1 function in its regulation. These results illuminate the conserved nature of the transcriptional regulation of the Lim‐1 gene in different vertebrate animals. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A Study on Intention to Use e-Procurement Systems among Procurement Business Bidding Managers

South Korea’s e-Government is changing its e-Governance to strengthen information transparency and fairness, having passed through the preparation, diffusion, and maturation stages according to the direction and purpose of the government’s policies. Various services are being offered and are evolving towards a system where businesses can bid for public informatization in a way that makes public information open to citizens. This study examined the intentions of procurement business bidding managers that use the e-Procurement system for bidding. The study model combined the UTAUT and TTF models. A positive analysis was performed using the SMART PLS for statistical analysis and hypothesis testing. The results showed that, for procurement business users, performance expectance, social influence, and facilitating conditions but not effort expectance had a significant positive influence, perhaps because systems adopted through government policies are not in a form that can be used voluntarily (e.g., smartphones, tablet PCs, Internet banking) but instead have inherent characteristics that give users no options, regardless of their wishes. This study is significant in identifying the characteristics attributable to obligatory use, instead of voluntary use, for the achievement of organizational (company) goals.
THE ACUTE EFFECTS OF HEAVY‐LOAD SQUATS AND LOADED COUNTERMOVEMENT JUMPS ON SPRINT PERFORMANCE

The purpose of this investigation was to determine whether performing high force or explosive force movements prior to sprinting would improve running speed. Fifteen NCAA Division III football players performed a heavy-load squat (HS), loaded countermovement jump (LCMJ), or control (C) warm-up condition in a counterbalanced randomized order over the course of 3 weeks. The HS protocol consisted of 1 set of 3 repetitions at 90% of the subject's 1 repetition maximum (1RM). The LCMJ protocol was 1 set of 3 repetitions at 30% of the subject's 1RM. At 4 minutes post–warm-up, subjects completed a timed 40-m dash with time measured at 10, 30, and 40 m. The results of the study indicated that when preceded by a set of HS, subjects ran 0.87% faster (p ≤ 0.05) in the 40-m dash (5.35 ± 0.32 vs. 5.30 ± 0.34 seconds) in comparison to C. No significant differences were observed in the 10-m or 30-m split times between the 3 conditions. The data from this study suggest that an acute bout of low-volume heavy lifting with the lower body may improve 40-m sprint times, but that loaded countermovement jumps appear to have no significant effect.
Exercise-Related Leg Pain in Female Collegiate Athletes

Background Exercise-related leg pain is a common complaint among athletes, but there is little evidence regarding risk factors for this condition in female collegiate athletes. Purpose To examine prospectively the effect of selected extrinsic and intrinsic factors on the development of exercise-related leg pain in female collegiate athletes. Study Design Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2. Methods Subjects were 76 female collegiate athletes participating in fall season sports, including cross-country running, field hockey, soccer, and volleyball. Athletes were seen for a preseason examination that included measures of height, weight, foot pronation, and calf muscle length as well as a questionnaire for disordered eating behaviors. Body mass index was calculated from height and weight (kg/m2). Those athletes who developed exercise-related leg pain during the season were seen for followup. All athletes who developed the condition and a matched group without such leg pain underwent bone mineral density and body composition testing. Statistical analyses of differences and relationships were conducted. Results Of the 76 athletes, 58 (76%) reported a history of exercise-related leg pain, and 20 (26%) reported occurrence of exercise-related leg pain during the season. A history of this condition was strongly associated with its occurrence during the season (odds ratio, 13.2). Exercise-related leg pain was most common among field hockey and cross-country athletes and least common among soccer players. There were no differences between athletes with and without such leg pain regarding age, muscle length, self-reported eating behaviors, body mass index, menstrual function, or bone mineral density. Athletes with exerciserelated leg pain had significantly (P < .05) greater navicular drop compared with those without. Conclusion Exercise-related leg pain was common among this group of female athletes. The results suggest that there are certain factors, including foot pronation, sport, and a history of this condition, that are associated with an increased risk of exerciserelated leg pain.
Genetic polymorphisms in chronic hyperplastic sinusitis with nasal polyposis

Although many proinflammatory cytokines have been identified in nasal polyp tissue, the initial trigger that causes this inflammation characterized by edema, lymphocytosis, and eosinophilia, is still unknown. The purpose of the present study is to identify the presence of genetic polymorphisms in proinflammatory, anti‐inflammatory, and chemokine genes that might contribute to genetic susceptibility to chronic hyperplastic sinusitis with nasal polyposis (CHSwNP).
Scleral buckling versus vitrectomy for primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment

Introduction Retinal detachment (RD) surgery is the most common retinal surgery performed. RD can be repaired either by scleral buckling (SB) or pars plana vitrectomy (PPV). Pneumoretinopexy, laser delimitation or observation can be done in selected cases. The decision to perform SB or vitrectomy depends on various factors, including age of the patient, duration and extent of RD, presence of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) changes, the number, location and size of retinal breaks and the lens status. Other factors which influence the decision are availability of operating room equipment or staff, various patient factors (especially expected compliance with positioning after surgery) and surgeon preference. Until about a decade ago, SB was the preferred procedure, but there is a general trend towards vitrectomy with the development of newer technology. There are several retrospective and prospective studies which compare SB and vitrectomy for primary RD. The anatomical and visual outcomes following retinal reattachment surgeries reported in the recent peer-reviewed literature will be discussed in this article.
The Effects of Consumers’ Perceived Privacy Control on Perceived Privacy Risk in Location-Based Services

The diffusion of advanced mobile technology has introduced new types of personal information or ‘location data’. These new data mean new opportunities for businesses, such as location-based services (LBS), but have resulted in new consumer anxieties regarding disclosure of personal information. This study examines the effects of the consumers’ perceived control over “time-andplace” information in location-aware services on their perceived privacy risk. A total of 270 respondents participated in this study. Conditions of perceived privacy control were operationalized over time-and-place information, in a 2x2 factorial design. Results indicate that the perceived control over time-and-place personal information is a significant predictor of perceived risk, and control assurances over time-and-place information enhances the perception of control, thus alleviating the perceived risk. In addition, the effect is much more significant when time and place were combined.
What is the effect of globalisation on the performance of the service sector of Ghana

The paper empirically examines the effect of globalisation on the service sector output in Ghana for the period 1961-2013 using annual time series data. The ordinary least square method of regression was employed after the unit root properties were examined. The findings of the study indicate negative effect of globalisation on the service sector output, suggesting that the Ghanaian economy has not benefited positively from globalisation. Policy makers should reconsider the use of globalisation as a policy tool in achieving growth in the service sector. The use of nonlinear models in future study is worth considering, as well as the use of other proxies of globalisation. Other regression estimation methods such as the Johansen method should be considered in future empirical studies to find out whether the current findings will be replicated.
Sell in May and Go Away Effect: Evidence from Developed, Emerging, and Frontier Markets

ii Acknowledgments iii List of Tables vi List of Figures vii CHAPTER I: INTRODUCTION 1 CHAPTER II: LITERATURE REVIEW 3 2.1. Efficient market hypothesis and market anomalies 3 2.2. Sell in May Effect 6 2.3. Developed markets 7 2.4. Emerging markets 10 2.5. Frontier markets 10 CHAPTER III: METHODOLOGY 15 3.1. Data 15 3.2. Variables 16 3.3. Regressions 17 CHAPTER IV: RESULT AND DISCUSSION 21 4.1. Developed markets 21 4.2. Emerging markets 22 4.3. Frontier markets 23
Treadmill Test to Detect Stress Induced Ischemic Heart Disease in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients Asymptomatic for CAD: A Hospital Based Cross-sectional Study in Rural Population of Central India

Background: Progressive Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) remains asymptomatic in many cases of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) and this makes diagnosis difficult. Routine screening of type 2 DM for silent ischemia with electrocardiography (ECG) remains controversial as majority of patients present with normal ECG. This study aims at using Treadmill Test (TMT) to determine the percentage of ischemic heart disease (IHD) in diabetic patients, having normal resting ECG and 2D Echo, in a rural set up of Central India. Moreover, the interest is to determine the risk factors for IHD in patients who underwent TMT. Materials and methods: One hundred sixty one type 2 DM patients in the age range 30-60 years with normal baseline ECG and resting Echo were screened by TMT. The data on demographics, biochemical tests and micro vascular complications was obtained for each patient to determine the possible risk factors of IHD in this study population. Results: Thirty four out of 161 patients (21.1%) were found positive for exercise induced ischemia. Of these, 27 underwent exercise stress echo immediately after TMT and the presence of RWMA was confirmed in 20 patients. Age, duration of DM and family history of IHD were identified as major covariates in the study. The parameters like HbA1C (glycosylated hemoglobin), total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG) and low density lipoprotein (LDL) showed marginal increase of odds in favor of TMT positive result after adjusting for covariates. Nephropathy and retinopathy were associated with silent ischemia in the study population exposed to TMT. Discussion: The study group belonged to lower socioeconomic group with mostly moderate to heavy working life style. Patients had normal resting echo, but when subjected to TMT, a significant proportion of cases were positive for silent ischemia, which otherwise would have been unnoticed. We believe that TMT remains the cornerstone for screening the population at risk in the rural sector where angiography is not readily available.
ECONOMETRIC MODELLING OF SHRIMP (Penaeusmonodon, fabricius) FARMING AT NANDIGRAM-IIBLOCK, PURBA MEDINIPUR DISTRICT (W.B.)

Aquaculture activities are the main livelihood for a large number of coastal populations. Various factors such as over uses of different chemicals, input of technical knowledge at the crisis time, quality control mechanism targeted to marketing strategy, sufficient supply of institutional credit and Government involvement in the export process, have caused the profit margin to a decline in 2012 with respect to previous years. An econometric modeling indicates and identifies the major factors. Assurance regarding an optimum output cannot be given even after taking the risk of huge investment. The export policy promotion and distinct quality measures are the major thrust area for the recent days. The requirement of Government’s effort s in implementing a proper planning and management oriented marketing strategies is necessary for the sustainability of the industry. The adoption of such measures can revive the shrimp industry, livelihood of the farmers, associated persons and make it a major contributor in earning foreign exchange.
An Empirical Investigation of Risk Sharing among Indonesian Households

This study investigates the formation of risk-sharing group in circumstances where households face barriers to insurance. We test alternative risk sharing models which include full risk sharing, borrowing-saving and private information about income and efforts. Using the Indonesia Family Life Survey (IFLS) dataset, this study provides evidence that the full risk-sharing hypothesis fails. There is some evidence that IFLS households smooth consumption using the credit market. No evidence is found in favor of risk sharing models with private information about effort and productivity. We then explore the possibility of Indonesian households forming stable informal risk sharing groups to mitigate idiosyncratic consumption risks. We find strong evidence of such endogenous group formation among IFLS households as a vehicle of informal risk sharing.
Phenotypic consequences of tubulin overproduction in Saccharomyces cerevisiae: differences between alpha-tubulin and beta-tubulin

Overexpression of alpha- and beta-tubulin genes in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, separately or together, leads to accumulation of large excesses of each of the polypeptides and arrest of cell division. However, other consequences of overexpression of these genes differ in several ways. As shown previously (D. Burke, P. Gasdaska, and L. Hartwell, Mol. Cell. Biol. 9:1049-1059, 1989), overexpression of beta-tubulin leads, at early times, to loss of microtubule structures and loss of viability. Eventually, the excess beta-tubulin forms abnormal structures. We show here that, in contrast, overexpression of alpha-tubulin led to none of these phenotypes and in fact could suppress each of the phenotypes associated with beta-tubulin accumulation. Truncated forms of beta-tubulin that were not competent to carry out microtubule functions also failed to elicit the beta-tubulin-specific phenotypes when overexpressed. The data support the hypothesis that beta-tubulin in excess over alpha-tubulin is uniquely toxic, perhaps because it interferes with normal microtubule assembly.
High‐Velocity Resistance Training Increases Skeletal Muscle Peak Power in Older Women

OBJECTIVES: Peak power declines more precipitously than strength with advancing age and is a reliable measure of impairment and a strong predictor of functional performance. We tested the hypothesis that a high‐velocity resistance‐training program (HI) would increase muscle power more than a traditional low‐velocity resistance‐training program (LO).