Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
COVID-19 and Sub-Saharan Africa Firms: Impact and Coping Strategies

Abstract Drawing on a representative survey of firms in 38 countries, eight of which are in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), this paper documents the impact of COVID-19 and firms’ coping strategies in SSA, benchmarking with other regions. The paper shows that the impact of the pandemic is more pronounced in Sub-Saharan Africa compared with other regions. This disproportionate impact is not explained by differences in sectoral composition and other firm characteristics, but likely by the level of development. This underscores the important economic and structural contexts that predate the pandemic in understanding the differential impact. Contrary to expectations, the findings show that businesses in Sub-Saharan Africa are more likely to adjust their operations or products and services to adapt to the shock than those in other regions. However, firms in the region lag in leveraging digital technologies, remote working, and e-commerce, compared with those in other regions.
Estimation non paramétrique en tomographie quantique homodyne

En optique quantique, la reconstruction de l'etat quantique (fonction de Wigner ou matrice de densite infini-dimensionnelle) d'un faisceau de lumiere correspond en statistique a un probleme inverse tres mal pose. Premierement, nous proposons des estimateurs de la matrice de densite bases sur les fonctions pattern et des estimateurs a noyau de la fonction de Wigner. Nous faisons l'hypothese que la matrice de densite inconnue appartient a une classe non parametrique definie en accord avec les exemples etudies par les physiciens. Nous en deduisons pour la fonction de Wigner associee a cette matrice des proprietes de decroissance rapide et de regularite. Deuxiemement, nous estimons une fonctionnelle quadratique de la fonction de Wigner par une U-statistique d'ordre deux sur une classe plus large. Cette fonctionnelle peut etre vue comme une indication sur la purete de l'etat quantique considere. Nous en deduisons un estimateur adaptatif aux parametres de regularite de la fonction de Wigner. La derniere partie de ce manuscrit est consacree au probleme de test d'adequation a la matrice de densite. Cette procedure est construite a partir d'un estimateur de type projection sur les fonctions \textit{pattern}. Nous etudions les bornes superieures de type minimax de toutes ces procedures. Les procedures d'estimation de la matrice de densite et de test d'adequation a une matrice de densite sont implementees et leurs performances numeriques sont etudiees.
Distributed Control of Nonlinear Systems With Unknown Time-Varying Control Coefficients: A Novel Nussbaum Function Approach

In this article, distributed control of uncertain multiagent systems (MAS) with completely unknown nonlinearities, unknown time-varying control coefficients, and multiple unknown control directions is investigated. First, a new theorem with a series of novel Nussbaum functions are presented, which solve the outstanding problem in control of nonlinear systems with unknown time-varying control coefficients and unknown signs. Second, global consensus of MAS with unknown time-varying control coefficients and unknown system nonlinearities under directed graph is first achieved, and the transient tracking performance is also guaranteed. Third, a novel filter is proposed for each agent which does not require a prior knowledge of time derivative of leader. Finally, simulation results show the effectiveness of the proposed control schemes.
Spleen and Liver Stiffness Evaluation by ARFI Imaging: A Reliable Tool for a Short-Term Monitoring of Portal Hypertension?

Background Assessment of hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) is the most reliable, though invasive method for evaluation of portal hypertension. Non-invasive, elastography-based techniques are well established in diagnosis, but not in monitoring of portal hypertension. The aim of our prospective study was to determine the value of acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) elastography technique of the liver and spleen in diagnosis and monitoring of portal hypertension. Methods We prospectively assessed portal hypertension by HVPG and corresponding elastography of the liver and spleen in 31 patients with liver cirrhosis and an indication for primary prophylaxis by non-cardio selective beta-blockers. Investigations were performed at baseline and a follow-up visit after 6-8 weeks. To address the known large variability of values for spleen elastography, well-defined corresponding areas in the spleen were used for baseline and follow-up elastography. Sensitivity, specificity, and AUC-ROC values for both spleen and liver elastography monitoring of portal hypertension were calculated. Results Liver but not spleen elastography significantly correlated with HVPG results and was suitable for initial evaluation of portal hypertension. However, changes in HVPG results did not show any correlation with alterations of ARFI values from baseline to follow-up visits both for liver and spleen elastography. Spleen stiffness results were not homogeneous across the whole organ differing significantly between the upper, hilar, and bottom placed investigation areas. Conclusions In this prospective study ARFI-based assessment of liver elastography showed itself suitable for initial assessment but not for monitoring of portal hypertension. Spleen elastography was not appropriate for both, evaluation and monitoring of portal hypertension. A possible explanation for this new data that are in some contrast to previously published results is the degree of portal hypertension in our study, a comparatively short follow-up period, and well-defined investigation areas for spleen elastography in repetitive ARFI investigations. This trial is registered with NCT03315767.
Neuroendocrine Tumors: A Comprehensive Review on Nutritional Approaches

Simple Summary Neuroendocrine neoplasms and their main subtype neuroendocrine tumors have an increasing incidence worldwide, associated with a high survival and prevalence rate. Both the tumor itself and systemic therapy can have an impact on patients’ nutrition. Conversely, preliminary data suggest that malnutrition has a negative impact on the development and prognosis of neuroendocrine tumors, as does obesity. The aim of this review is to condense the latest evidence on the role of the most widely used dietary patterns, the Mediterranean diet, the ketogenic diet and intermittent fasting, in the context of neuroendocrine tumors. Nutritional plans are an integral part of the multidisciplinary treatment team of patients with neuroendocrine tumors because they improve the patient’s quality of life. The nutritional approach must be tailored, based on nutritional needs and nutritionally manageable signs and/or symptoms related to drug treatment. Abstract Neuroendocrine neoplasms are a heterogeneous group of neoplasms with increasing incidence, high prevalence, and survival worldwide. About 90% of cases are well differentiated forms, the so-called neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), with slow proliferation rates and prolonged survival but frequent development of liver metastases and endocrine syndromes. Both the tumor itself and systemic therapy may have an impact on patient nutrition. Malnutrition has a negative impact on outcome in patients with NETs, as well as obesity. In addition, obesity and metabolic syndrome have been shown to be risk factors for both the development and prognosis of NET. Therefore, dietary assessment based on body composition and lifestyle modifications should be an integral part of the treatment of NET patients. Nutrition plans, properly formulated by a dietician, are an integral part of the multidisciplinary treatment team for patients with NETs because they allow an improvement in quality of life, providing a tailored approach based on nutritional needs and nutritional manageable signs and/or symptoms related to pharmacological treatment. The aim of this review is to condense the latest evidence on the role of the most used dietary models, the Mediterranean diet, the ketogenic diet, and intermittent fasting, in the context of NETs, while considering the clinical and molecular mechanisms by which these dietary models act.
A Retrospective Cohort Analysis of Limb Salvage Surgery Using Mega Prosthesis in Bone Tumours at a Tertiary Care Centre in Eastern India

Background The method known as "limb salvage surgery" (LSS) aids in the removal of extremity tumours, and reconstruction is completed with satisfactory oncologic, functional, and cosmetic outcomes. Oncologic clearance is given first priority, followed by functional outcomes. Worldwide, the trend has already shifted away from amputations and toward limb salvage surgery for eligible patients due to efficient chemotherapy regimens, improved imaging techniques, precise administration of enhanced radiation, better reconstructive choices, and developments in bio-engineering. The purpose of the present study was to determine the clinicopathological characteristics, surgical techniques, functional outcome, and prognostic factors of limb salvage surgery performed using mega prosthesis in primary malignant or benign resectable tumours. Methods Our retrospective cohort study was carried out over a period of two years and included 28 patients who received care for bone tumours. The data gathered comprised the demographic profile, clinical characteristics, histological characteristics, treatments given, functional results, and survival. LSS was performed on all patients by orthopaedics oncologists trained in the surgical oncology department. Following surgery, during the first two years, patients were examined at every three-month interval, then every six months until the fifth year, and then once a year after that. The Kaplan-Meier method was utilized to determine the median follow-up and recurrence-free survival (RFS). Results In our study, the mean age of study subjects was 30.0±10.9 years. Almost all of the subjects included in the study had lower limb bone tumours (96.4%). The most common site for the tumour was the distal femur (57.1%) followed by the proximal femur (32.2%). The most common type of benign tumour was giant cell tumour (GCT) (53.6%), including recurrences of giant cell tumour (GCT), and among malignant tumours, osteosarcoma was the most common (25.0%). The mean surgical resection of bone in limb salvage surgery was 125.2±24.2 mm. The most common post-operative complication was leg length discrepancy (LLD) among 25.0% of subjects, which was managed by shoe raise. The overall mean musculoskeletal tumour society (MTSS) score after LSS was 25.0±4.3. Using the Kaplan-Meier method analysis, we found that relapse-free survival was 83.7% among enrolled subjects at a median follow-up period of 80 months. Conclusion It can be difficult to surgically treat patients who have malignant bone tumours. In limb-sparing surgery for bone tumours, the modular segmental-replacement system prosthesis that we preferred produced satisfactory results in terms of tumour control and limb function. To get good long-term results, the case selection must be appropriate.
Experiential Characteristics among Individuals with Tinnitus Seeking Online Psychological Interventions: A Cluster Analysis

Objective: This study was designed to gain insights regarding patterns of social representations (values, ideas, beliefs) of tinnitus and their relation to demographic and clinical factors. Method: A cross-sectional survey design was used including 399 adults seeking help and reporting interest in internet-based cognitive behavior therapy for tinnitus. Data were collected using a free association task and analysis used qualitative (content analysis) and quantitative (cluster analysis and chi-square analysis) using the Iramuteq software. Results: The social representations identified the negative impact of tinnitus and included the way it sounded (descriptions of the way tinnitus sounds (18%), annoyance (13.5%), and persistence (8%)). Four clusters were identified representing four levels of tinnitus severity, namely debilitating tinnitus (24%), distressing tinnitus (10%), annoying tinnitus (46%), and accepting tinnitus (20%). Cluster identity was associated with demographic and clinical variables. Discussion: The identified clusters represented tinnitus severity experience in four stages, ranging from debilitating tinnitus to acceptance of tinnitus. These findings are important for clinical practice where tinnitus descriptions can indicate the stage of the tinnitus experience and which intervention pathway may be most appropriate.
Use of crowdfunding in Chile: an exploratory approach

: The FinTech industry includes crowdfunding companies, which consist of collaborative financing platforms. The potential use of crowdfunding among Chilean undergraduate students is empirically analyzed. An ordered probit model is used to test the determinants of the probability that a student will use a crowdfunding platform in the future. Also, a qualitative analysis containing arguments by which students would or would not use crowdfunding in the future is presented. The results indicate that trust in financial institutions and prior crowdfunding knowledge have a positive and significant effect on the probability of using these platforms. This paper constitutes one of the first to explore the growing crowdfunding market in Chile from the demand perspective.
How Neighborhood Characteristics Influence Neighborhood Crimes: A Bayesian Hierarchical Spatial Analysis

Urban crimes are a severe threat to livable and sustainable urban environments. Many studies have investigated the patterns, causes, and strategies for curbing the occurrence of urban crimes. It is found that neighborhood socioeconomic status, physical environment, and ethnic composition all might play a role in the occurrence of urban crimes. Inspired by the recent interest in exploring urban crime patterns with spatial data analysis techniques and the development of Bayesian hierarchical analytical approaches, we attempt to explore the inherently intricate relationships between urban assaultive violent crimes and the neighborhood socioeconomic status, physical environment, and ethnic composition in Paterson, NJ, using census data of the American Community Survey, alcohol and tobacco sales outlet data, and abandoned property listing data from 2013. Analyses are set at the census block group level. Urban crime data are obtained from the Paterson Police Department. Instead of examining relationships at a global level with both non-spatial and spatial analyses, we examine in depth the potential locally varying relationships at the local level through a Bayesian hierarchical spatially varying coefficient model. At both the global and local analysis levels, it is found that median household income is decisively negatively related to urban crime occurrence. Percentage of African Americans and Hispanics, number of tobacco sales outlets, and number of abandoned properties are all positively related with urban crimes. At the local level of analysis, however, the different factors have varying influence on crime occurrence throughout the city of Paterson, with median household income having the broadest influence across the city. The practice of applying a Bayesian hierarchical spatial analysis framework to understand urban crime occurrence and urban neighborhood characteristics enables urban planners, stakeholders, and public safety officials to engage in more active and targeted crime-reduction strategies.
Hepatotoxicity of Graded Doses of Ethanol Extract of Dialium guineense Stem Bark in Wistar Rats

Aim: To investigate the hepatotoxicity of graded doses of ethanol extract of Dialium guineense stem bark in Wistar rats. Materials and Methods: Adult male Wistar rats (n = 35), which weighed between 160 and 180 g (mean weight = 170 ± 10 g) were assigned to seven (7) groups (5 rats per group). Group I rats served as control, while those in groups II - VII received graded doses of extract (200 - 5000 mg/kg body weight, bwt) for 28 days. Liver function tests (LFTs) were carried out. Results: There were no significant differences in the activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) among the groups (p > 0.05). While there were no significant differences in the activities of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and gamma glutamyltransferase (GGT) in groups II – V (p > 0.05), they were however, significantly increased in groups VI and VII, when compared with control group (p < 0.05). Similarly, there were no significant increases in the concentrations of albumin, total protein, globulins, bilirubin and malondialdehyde (MDA) in plasma of rats treated with graded doses of ethanol extract, relative to the control group (p > 0.05). In all instances, the basal activities and concentrations of the measured indices of liver function were not significantly different from the values after treatment (p > 0.05). Conclusion: The graded doses of ethanol extract of D. guineense stem bark did not elicit any deleterious effects on liver function indices.
Low-dimensional techniques for active control of high-speed jet aeroacoustics

The present study is focused on the development of an empirical low-order dynamical system (LODS) of a Mach 0.6 high-speed axisymmetric jet to be ultimately used for closed-loop flow control. An identification method is implemented to solve for the coefficients of the ordinary differential equation (ODE) describing the evolution of the flow. This ODE is derived from a Galerkin projection of the Navier-Stokes equations onto a basis of proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) eigenfunctions. An extensive database of the velocity and acceleration fields is therefore needed to be used as “training” data for the dynamical system. A dualtime particle image velocimetry (DT-PIV) experiment is designed and carried out to measure velocity and Eulerian acceleration in cross-flow planes from 3 to 10 jet diameters downstream. The setup comprises two stereoscopic PIV systems that sample velocity at two consecutive instants, the time separation being carefully chosen to resolve the scales of interest in the flow. POD is applied and the resulting low order dynamical system is exposed and its dynamics are validated against data previously measured in this flow. A preliminary experiment measuring and correlating the near-field to the far-field pressure is carried out to identify the most sound productive region in the jet, where the DT-PIV experiment focuses, and to give insight into the nature of the propagative sound sources. The results of this experiment lead to the understanding that the axisymmetric mode (azimuthal Fourier mode 0) of the near pressure field is the best propagator to the far-field, which can guide flow control strategies for noise reduction. With this result in mind, synthetic-jet based actuators are designed to be able to provide hydrodynamic perturbations at the nozzle exit to exploit the non-propagative nature of the higher azimuthal modes. The three main aspects of this work (dynamical system development, sound source identification and flow control device design) applied to the high-speed axisymmetric jet lay the preliminary grounds towards the implementation of practical closed-loop flow control for far-field noise reduction. LOW-DIMENSIONAL TECHNIQUES FOR ACTIVE CONTROL OF HIGH-SPEED JET AEROACOUSTICS By Jeremy Pinier M.S. ENSICA, Toulouse, France 2004 SUBMITTED IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY AT SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY SYRACUSE, NEW YORK, U.S.A. May. 2007 c © Copyright by Jeremy T. Pinier, 2007
The position of β Pictoris b position relative to the debris disk

Context. We detected in 2009 a giant, close-by planet orbiting β Pic, a young star surrounded by a disk that has been extensively studied for more than 20 years. We showed that if the planet were located on an inclined orbit, this could account for several peculiarities of the β Pictoris system. However, the available data did not permit us to measure the inclination of β Pic b with respect to the disk, and in particular to establish in which component of the disk – either the main, extended disk or the inner inclined component/disk – the planet was located. Comparison between the observed planet position and the disk orientation measured using previous imaging data was not an option because of potential biases in the measurements. Aims. Our aim is to measure precisely the planet location with respect to the dust disk using a single high-resolution image, and correcting for systematics or errors that degrade the precision of the disk and planet relative-position measurements. Methods. We gathered new NaCo data in the Ks band, with a set-up optimized to derive simultaneously the orientation(s) of the disk(s) and the planet projected position. Results. We show that the projected position of β Pic b is above the midplane of the main disk. With the current data and knowledge of the system, this implies that β Pic b cannot be located in the main disk. The data instead suggest that the planet is located in the inclined component.
The Influence of Probiotics Consumption on Management of Prediabetic State: A Systematic Review of Clinical Trials

Prediabetes consists of the intermediary stage between normal glucose regulation and overt diabetes mellitus and develops when blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough to confirm a type 2 diabetes mellitus diagnosis (T2DM). Recent evidence suggests that probiotics could be promising approaches to improve this state. In this study, we performed a systematic review to compile the results of clinical trials investigating the effects of pro-/pre-/synbiotics on prediabetes subjects from 2010 to 2020. The article search was carried out in Medline, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, The Cochrane Library, Clinical trials.gov, ProQuest, Open Grey, and Google Scholar. Search filters were developed using 2 parameters: “prestate diabetes” and “probiotics. ” Of the 418 studies that were screened, 15 original articles reached the inclusion criteria. Pooling data from these trials showed positive and significant effects of probiotics in the reduction of hyperglycemia, insulin concentration levels, lipid profile, and BMI (Body mass index). Administration of probiotics may provide beneficial and healthful effects in the clinical management of patients with prediabetes and metabolic syndrome. Different probiotics compositions have shown beneficial and noticeable effects on glucose homeostasis, lipid profiles, BMI, and inflammatory markers in subjects with prediabetes, metabolic syndrome, and healthy individuals and could be advantageous in recomposing the gut microbiota back into the normal state during the prediabetic state.