Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Macroeconomic Announcements and Risk Premia in the Treasury Bond Market

The bond risk premia associated with important macroeconomic variables are examined in this paper. The main question is whether a risk premium is earned by risk-averse agents investing in Government bonds exposed to macroeconomic news. The news measures are based on macroeconomic announcements and market consensus forecasts covering more than twenty-…ve years of data (1983-2008) and more than twenty types of announcements. Procyclical variables are found to carry a statistically signi…cant price of risk. This result is con…rmed by examining both cross-sectional regressions and the expected returns of maximum-correlation portfolios mimicking the macroeconomic variables. This result is also robust con
A 19Gb/s serial link receiver with both 4-tap FFE and 5-tap DFE functions in 45nm SOI CMOS

To overcome the limited bandwidth of chip-to-chip and backplane communication channels at multi-Gb/s data-rates, high-speed I/O transceivers employ a combination of DFE in the RX and FFE in the TX, since these equalizers complement each other to provide an effective equalization solution. Using RX-side FFE instead of TX-side FFE can bring important advantages to the transceiver: it obviates any back-channel for coefficient adaptation and improves RX interoperability with different TXs. RX-FFE is also preferable to simple peaking amplifiers, since it enables greater flexibility in setting the pre-cursor and post-cursor coefficients. However, traditional RX-FFEs with analog delay lines are not area efficient and do not support a wide range of data-rates. This paper describes design techniques that enable the realization of a RX with 4-tap FFE and 5-tap DFE, having area and power efficiency comparable to DFE-only RXs.
Verbal Reports of Pain without Noxious Stimulation

It was hypothesized that allowing Ss to observe a confederate model reporting a constant, nonaversive electric shock as progressively more noxious would elicit reports of pain to this same shock from Ss themselves. Two groups of 10 Ss received nonincremental shocks, with one group observing a model rate the shocks as progressively more painful. Ss concurrently rated shock intensity on a scale varying from undetectable to painful. Ss paired with a progressively less tolerant model matched this behavior. The findings were discussed in the context of vicarious learning theory and social influences on expressions of pain.
Development of a research registry for primary care community-based research.

A research registry can be of invaluable assistance to physicians and researchers by providing an available panel of patient information that could assist in understanding the patients they are serving, utilization of health care services, and the design and implementation of research studies to improve patient care. We have designed, implemented, and managed such a research registry for our Center for Primary Care Community-Based Research. A registry has been defined as a file of documents containing uniform information about individual persons, collected in a systematic and comprehensive way, in order to serve a predetermined purpose.1 Registry data systems are powerful tools used by researchers in a variety of health-related fields. The application of these systems in epidemiologic, clinical, and health services research are many. They are utilized to estimate disease prevalence and incidence, to estimate health care resource utilization and clinical outcomes, and to track changes in these parameters over time.2 Registries may also serve as data sources for conducting comparisons of health care utilization and outcomes across different categories of patients, for example according to ethnicity, sex, age, or geographic location. Additionally, registries may serve as sampling frames for selecting patients who fulfil specific study eligibility criteria,2 and for use in prevention research. There are many disease-specific research registries that are well known, including cancer, influenza vaccinations and HIV.2 Several others have been developed including cleft lip,3 trauma,4 pediatric neurologic disorders,5 vascular surgery6 and spinal cord dysfunction.7 Despite the growing utilization of disease-specific registries in the United States, and their greater use in Canada and Europe, there is a paucity of research/experience with community-based primary care registries. Such registries may provide invaluable clinical, epidemiologic, utilization, prevention, and outcomes data that would help to improve the quality of life and clinical outcomes for patients as well as provide mechanisms for investigating ways to eliminate the disparities in health care among underserved populations. We have developed a research registry that is not disease-specific, but that encompasses the collective patient population who has consented to be contacted for possible inclusion in any applicable medical research studies. The research registry for the Center for Primary Care Community-Based Research was developed for the purpose of:
Inorganic Polyphosphate in Mammalian Cells and Tissues (*)

Inorganic polyphosphate (polyP), a linear polymer of hundreds of orthophosphate (Pi) residues linked by high-energy, phosphoanhydride bonds, has been identified and measured in a variety of mammalian cell lines and tissues by unambiguous enzyme methods. Subpicomole amounts of polyP (0.5 pmol/100 μg of protein) were determined by its conversion to ATP by Escherichia coli polyphosphate kinase and, alternatively, to Pi by Saccharomyces cerevisiae exopolyphosphatase. Levels of 25 to 120 μM (in terms of Pi residues), in chains 50 to 800 residues long, were found in rodent tissues (brain, heart, kidneys, liver, and lungs) and in subcellular fractions (nuclei, mitochondria, plasma membranes, and microsomes). PolyP in brain was predominantly near 800 residues and found at similar levels pre- and postnatally. Conversion of Pi into polyP by cell lines of fibroblasts, T-cells, kidney, and adrenal cells attained levels in excess of 10 pmol per mg of cell protein per h. Synthesis of polyP from Pi in the medium bypasses intracellular Pi and ATP pools suggesting the direct involvement of membrane component(s). In confluent PC12 (adrenal pheochromocytoma) cells, polyP turnover was virtually complete in an hour, whereas in fibroblasts there was little turnover in four hours. The ubiquity of polyP and variations in its size, location, and metabolism are indicative of a multiplicity of functions for this polymer in mammalian systems.
Social inequalities in childcare quality and their effects on children's development at school entry: findings from the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children

Background Higher quality childcare in the years before school may help narrow developmental gaps between the richest and poorest children in our societies, but specific evidence is limited and inconsistent. We address this issue by examining whether higher quality childcare is associated with better developmental outcomes at school entry for children from lower than higher income families. Methods The sample from the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children included children attending childcare from 2 to 3 years (n=980–1187, depending on outcome). Childcare quality was measured using carers assessment of their relationship with the child. Children's receptive vocabulary was directly assessed in the child's home, and behavioural difficulties were measured by teachers and parents at 4–5 years. We assessed additive and multiplicative income-related effect measure modification of the quality of carer–child relationship on developmental outcomes. Results After adjusting for confounding, there was some evidence of effect measure modification on the additive and multiplicative scales of childcare quality by income. Children experiencing higher quality relationships and lower income had almost the same risk of poorer receptive vocabulary as children in higher quality relationships and higher incomes (relative excess risk due to interaction=0.18; 95% CI −0.20 to 0.52), ratio of relative risks=1.11 (1.04 to 1.17)). These patterns were similar for teacher-reported and parent-reported behavioural difficulties. Conclusions The effects of higher quality childcare, in terms of quality relationships with carers, on children's cognitive and behavioural development at school entry were stronger among children from lower income families. This provides some evidence that higher quality relationships in childcare may be especially important in helping reduce developmental gaps for children from lower income families.
A Novel Approach to Verify Graph Schema-Based Software Systems

Graph Grammars have recently become more and more popular as a general formal modeling language. Behavioral modeling of dynamic systems and model to model transformations are a few well-known examples in which graphs have proven their usefulness in software engineering. A special type of graph transformation systems is layered graphs. Layered graphs are a suitable formalism for modeling hierarchical systems. However, most of the research so far concentrated on graph transformation systems as a modeling means, without considering the need for suitable analysis tools. In this paper we concentrate on how to analyze these models. We will describe our approach to show how one can verify the designed graph transformation systems. To verify graph transformation systems we use a novel approach: using Bogor model checker to verify graph transformation systems. The AGG-like graph transformation systems are translated to BIR — the input language of Bogor — and Bogor verifies that model against some properties defined by combining LTL and special purpose graph rules. Supporting schema-based and layered graphs characterize our approach among existing solutions for verification of graph transformation systems.
Is myo‐inositol a measure of glial swelling after stroke? a magnetic resonance study

To determine whether the hypothesis that the phenomenon of persistent cytotoxic edema in the subacute stage of ischemic stroke is in fact associated with the glial population. This is done by assessing the evolution of both the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and the glial‐specific marker myo‐inositol (Ins) in a group of patients, and by comparing the results with the total cellular density by means of the creatine (Cre) level.
A Study on Optimal Face Ratio for Recognition Using Part-Based Feature Extractor

This paper aims to investigate the optimal face ratio for recognition. Face data are normalized to several ratios, which are 25%, 50% (equivalent to right and left face), and 75% of the full-face. The advantages of using different face ratios are these face data reduce the amount of computational power and storage requirements significantly. For fair comparison, various part-based linear subspace feature extractors, namely Non-negative matrix factorization (NMF), Local NMF (LNMF) and Spatially Confined NMF (SFNMF) are used to estimate the optimal face ratio. Our results show that 75% faces are good enough to produce demonstrably recognition accuracy.
Robotic invasion of operation theatre and associated anaesthetic issues: A review

A Robotic device is a powered, computer controlled manipulator with artificial sensing that can be reprogrammed to move and position tools to carry out a wide range of tasks. Robots and Telemanipulators were first developed by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) for use in space exploration. Today’s medical robotic systems were the brainchild of the United States Department of Defence’s desire to decrease war casualties with the development of ‘telerobotic surgery’. The ‘master-slave’ telemanipulator concept was developed for medical use in the early 1990s where the surgeon’s (master) manual movements were transmitted to end-effector (slave) instruments at a remote site. Since then, the field of surgical robotics has undergone massive transformation and the future is even brighter. As expected, any new technique brings with it risks and the possibility of technical difficulties. The person who bears the brunt of complications or benefit from a new invention is the ‘Patient’. Anaesthesiologists as always must do their part to be the patient’s ‘best man’ in the perioperative period. We should be prepared for screening and selection of patients in a different perspective keeping in mind the steep learning curves of surgeons, long surgical hours, extreme patient positioning and other previously unknown anaesthetic challenges brought about by the surgical robot. In this article we have tried to track the development of surgical robots and consider the unique anaesthetic issues related to robot assisted surgeries.
Rekomendacje giełdowe jako źródło wiedzy dla inwestora indywidualnego

Streszczenie W artykule przedstawiono wyniki badań jakości wydawanych rekomendacji giełdowych przez instytucje finansowe dotyczących spółek notowanych na WGPW. Porównano prognozowane przez te instytucje zmiany kursów akcji z odnotowanymi w rzeczywistości oraz oceniono możliwość wykorzystania publikowanych, darmowych rekomendacji przy podejmowaniu decyzji inwestycyjnych przez inwestora indywidualnego.
Analysis of Optimization Methods in Multisteerable Filter Design

This Thesis is protected by copyright and/or related rights. It has been brought to you by ScholarWorks@UNO with permission from the rights-holder(s). You are free to use this Thesis in any way that is permitted by the copyright and related rights legislation that applies to your use. For other uses you need to obtain permission from the rightsholder(s) directly, unless additional rights are indicated by a Creative Commons license in the record and/or on the work itself.
A microstrip array operating in a fracton mode [fractal geometry]

A high-directivity microstrip array using multilevel elements based on a fractal geometry is theoretically compared with one using circular patches. Within the same electrical area, the same directivity can be obtained. However, the number of elements for the fractal-based array is 2.84 times less, reducing the complexity of the feeding network and overall array.
Precise angle estimation using geometry features for bin picking

In the recent automation process, the manufacturing automation innovation is being done by using vision technology that can make instant judgement. In this paper, a method of vision based angle estimation is presented. The central moment is calculated and the rotation angle is estimated by the angle with the principal axis. There is also a method of estimating the precision rotation angle using the angle between matching points of SIFT descriptors. We propose a rotation angle estimation method that is invariant to object posture. We used affine transformation for the preprocessing of the image for the invariance to object posture. To estimate the accuracy of the rotation angle, we used blobs which are features in the object area. We conducted the angle estimation accuracy and repeatability tests under the experimental environment which has been constructed in our lab. We obtain less than 0.154 angle estimation accuracy.
Alternatively Spliced Products of the Human Kinesin Light Chain 1 (KNS2) Gene

Conventional kinesin is a microtubule‐based molecular motor involved in the transport of membranous and non‐membranous cargoes. The kinesin holoenzyme exists as a heterotetramer, consisting of two heavy chain and two light chain subunits. It is thought that one function of the light chains is to interact with the cargo. Alternative splicing of kinesin light chain pre‐mRNA has been observed in lower organisms, although evidence for alternative splicing of the human gene has not been reported. We have identified 19 variants of the human KNS2 gene (KLC1) that are generated by alternative splicing of downstream exons, but calculate that KNS2 has the potential to produce 285 919 spliceforms. Corresponding spliceforms of the mouse KLC1 gene were also identified. The alternative exons are all located 3′ of exon 12 and the novel spliceforms produce both alternative carboxy termini and alternative 3′ untranslated regions. The observation of multiple light chain isoforms is consistent with their proposed role in specific cargo attachment.
Study of light propagation in photonic and plasmonic crystals through fourier image spectroscopy

Photonic crystals and plasmonic structures have become a key subject in the future of optical communications and optical computing. Therefore, the study of their optical properties has become challenging in the last few years since they present micro or nanometric dimensions which makes it difficult their proper optical characterization. In this talk I will show that making use of Fourier image spectroscopy with NA objectives one can obtain full information on the near and far field scattering/emission patterns of this structures. I will also show examples of photonic and plasmonic crystals where we obtained experimental measurements of the photonics bands using this technique.
Vascular territorial segmentation and volumetric blood flow measurement using dynamic contrast enhanced magnetic resonance angiography of the brain

This study proposes a method for territorial segmentation and volumetric flow rate (VFR) distribution measurement of cerebral territories based on time-resolved contrast enhanced magnetic-resonance-angiography (MRA). The method uses an iterative region-growing algorithm based on bolus-arrival-time with increased temporal resolution. Eight territories were segmented: (1) right and (2) left internal carotid arteries, including the middle cerebral artery (ICA+MCA), excluding the anterior cerebral arteries (ACA); (3) right and left ACA (R+L-ACA); (4) right and (5) left external carotid arteries (ECA); (6) right and (7) left posterior cerebral arteries (PCA); and (8) vertebrobasilar territory. VFR percentage, relative to the entire brain (rVFR), was measured based on territorial volume as a function of time. Mean rVFR values of fifteen healthy subjects were: ICA+MCA = 23 ± 2%, R + L-ACA = 17 ± 3%, ECA = 4 ± 2%, PCA = 12 ± 2%, and vertebrobasilar territory = 31 ± 4%. Excluding the ECA-rVFR, which is underestimated, these values are comparable to previously reported values. Six subjects were scanned twice, demonstrating comparable and even higher reproducibility than previously reported using phase-contrast, yet with faster scan time (∼1 min). This method was implemented in one patient with MCA occlusion and one with Moyamoya syndrome scanned before and after bypass surgery, demonstrating its clinical potential for quantitative assessment of the degree of occlusion and the effect of surgery.
[MALKS: specifications and development].

PURPOSE To describe the characteristics of a new artificial anterior chamber (MALKS, Loktal, São Paulo, Brazil). METHODS Characteristics analysis and description of a new artificial anterior chamber MALKS (Micro automated lamellar keratoplasty system). RESULTS MALKS is composed of eight parts: a) artificial chamber; b) cornea's fix ring; c) nut to join the cornea's fix ring; d) rail and adjuster of lamellar diameter; e) flatteners, to pre-determine lamellar diameter; f) infusion system, that allows the digital objective peroperative control of the intracameral pressure; g) automated microkeratome, and h) marker. CONCLUSION MALKS uses the same automated microkeratome developed for LASIK, can allow corneal lamella obtention with predetermined thickness and diameter, as well as the digital objective peroperative control of the intracameral pressure. This new artificial anterior chamber can be an important tool for superficial and endothelial keratoplasty.
Teacher Perceptions of Teacher Performance Pay and Performance Evaluation in Yunnan Province, China.

In China, teacher performance pay has been implemented for eight years, but teachers’ perceptions regarding its implementation have been examined seldomly. Exploring teachers’ perceptions is a path to hear teachers’ voices, inspect implementation practice, and evaluate impacts. This mixed-method study explored teachers’ perceptions toward performance pay in Panda School District of Kunming City, Yunnan Province, China through surveys, interviews, and artifacts. A total of 333 valid responses to the survey were collected and 14 teachers participated in follow-up semi-structured interviews. The quantitative results indicate low to moderate teacher support for performance pay. The qualitative themes generated through content analysis present teachers’ perceived merits and problems associated with the implementation of performance pay. A seven-factor model was extracted through principal component analysis drawn from the teacher perception survey, with 58.4% of the variance in perceptions explained. Significant differences in teachers’ perceptions toward performance pay and evaluation measures were found based on participating teacher and school characteristics. The findings suggest that local governments should increase funding in teacher performance pay if it is to be successful. Additionally, the specific guidance needs to be developed to regulate school-based performance pay programs that consider school contexts. Further, policymakers and school administrators should focus on the structure and associated evaluation indicators of performance pay. It is necessary for school leaders to improve leadership through professional development programs at the same time of implementing
Civic Service Worldwide: Social Development Goals and Partnerships

Civic service is a long-term, intensive form of volunteering. This article reports on a global assessment of civic service, which identified 210 programs in 57 countries. Program goals and administrative partnerships suggest that civic service is a social development intervention. For civic service to achieve its potential, research is recommended regarding server inclusivity, goal accomplishment, and the nature and effect of partnerships.
Is Greece Turning the Corner? A Theory-Based Assessment of Recent Greek Macro-Policy

We use a macro-theory framework of analysis to assess Greek macro-policy with emphasis on the period of the Greek debt crisis. The latter is mainly the result of misguided past internal policies deviating from the policy lessons of modern macroeconomics. The current policy, however, provides a credible platform for sustainable growth. Greece has entered the process of economic recovery but this is fragile and exposed to risks. We conclude that although a country’s currency is not per-se determining growth, supply-side reforms and institutional performance are; and for Greece both are better served within the EMU rather than outside.
Elastic network models and coarse-grained NMA

The realization that experimentally observed functional motions of proteins can be predicted by coarse-grained normal mode analysis (NMA) has renewed interest in applications to structural biology. Notable applications include the prediction of biologically relevant motions for proteins and supramolecular structures driven by their structure-encoded collective dynamics; the refinement of low-resolution structures including those determined by cryo-electron microscopy; and the identification of conserved dynamic patterns and mechanically key regions within protein families. Additionally, hybrid methods that couple atomic simulations with deformations derived from coarse-grained NMA are able to sample collective motions beyond the range of conventional molecular dynamics simulations. Such applications have provided great insight into the underlying principles linking protein structures to their dynamics, and their dynamics to their functions.