Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Equity Trading in the 21st Century

The US equity market has changed dramatically in recent years. Increasing automation and the entry of new trading platforms have resulted in intense competition among trading platforms.Despite these changes, traders still face the same challenges as before. They seek to minimize the total cost of trading, including commissions, bid/ask spreads, and market impact. New technologies allow traders to implement traditional strategies more effectively. For example, dark pools and indications of interest are just an updated form of tactics that NYSE (New York Stock Exchange) floor traders used to search for counterparties while minimizing the exposure of their clients' trading interest to prevent front running.Virtually every measurable dimension of US equity market quality has improved. Execution speeds and retail commissions have fallen. Bid-ask spreads have fallen and remain low, although they spiked upward along with volatility during the recent financial crisis. Market depth has increased. Studies of institutional transactions costs find US costs among the lowest in the world. Unlike during the Crash of 1987, the US equity market mechanism handled the increase in trading volume and volatility without disruption. However, our markets lack a market-wide risk management system that would deal with computer-generated chaos in real time, and our regulators should address this. "Make or take" pricing, the charging of access fees to market orders that "take" liquidity and paying rebates to limit orders that "make" liquidity, causes distortions that should be corrected. Such charges are not reflected in the quotations used for the measurement of best execution. Direct access by nonbrokers to trading platforms requires appropriate risk management. Front running orders in correlated securities should be banned.
String Noninclusion Optimization Problems

For every string inclusion relation there are two optimization problems: find a longest string included in every string of a given finite language, and find a shortest string including every string of a given finite language. As an example, the two well-known pairs of problems, the longest common substring (or subsequence) problem and the shortest common superstring (or supersequence) problem, are interpretations of these two problems. In this paper we consider a class of opposite problems connected with string noninclusion relations: find a shortest string included in no string of a given finite language and find a longest string including no string of a given finite language. The predicate "string $\alpha$ is not included in string $\beta$" is interpreted as either "$\alpha$ is not a substring of $\beta$" or "$\alpha$ is not a subsequence of $\beta$". The main purpose is to determine the complexity status of the string noninclusion optimization problems. Using graph approaches we present polynomial-time algorithms for the first interpretation and NP-hardness proofs for the second. We also discuss restricted versions of the problems, correlations between the string inclusion and noninclusion problems, and generalized problems which are the string inclusion problems for one language and the string noninclusion problems for another. In applications the string inclusion problems are used to find a similarity between any structures which can be represented by strings. Respectively, the noninclusion problems can be used to find a nonsimilarity. Such problems occur in computational molecular biology, data compression, pattern recognition, and flexible manufacturing. The above generalized problems arise naturally in all of these applied areas. Apart from this practical reason, we hope that studying the string noninclusion problems will yield deeper understanding of the string inclusion problems.
Mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation alterations in heart failure, ischaemic heart disease and diabetic cardiomyopathy

Heart disease is a leading cause of death worldwide. In many forms of heart disease, including heart failure, ischaemic heart disease and diabetic cardiomyopathies, changes in cardiac mitochondrial energy metabolism contribute to contractile dysfunction and to a decrease in cardiac efficiency. Specific metabolic changes include a relative increase in cardiac fatty acid oxidation rates and an uncoupling of glycolysis from glucose oxidation. In heart failure, overall mitochondrial oxidative metabolism can be impaired while, in ischaemic heart disease, energy production is impaired due to a limitation of oxygen supply. In both of these conditions, residual mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation dominates over mitochondrial glucose oxidation. In diabetes, the ratio of cardiac fatty acid oxidation to glucose oxidation also increases, although primarily due to an increase in fatty acid oxidation and an inhibition of glucose oxidation. Recent evidence suggests that therapeutically regulating cardiac energy metabolism by reducing fatty acid oxidation and/or increasing glucose oxidation can improve cardiac function of the ischaemic heart, the failing heart and in diabetic cardiomyopathies. In this article, we review the cardiac mitochondrial energy metabolic changes that occur in these forms of heart disease, what role alterations in mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation have in contributing to cardiac dysfunction and the potential for targeting fatty acid oxidation to treat these forms of heart disease.
Think Locally, Act Locally: Building a Robust Entrepreneurial Ecosystem

This report analyzes behavioral patterns of entrepreneurs who participate in 1 Million Cups® (1MC) Kansas City, a Kauffman Labs for Enterprise Creation program designed to engage, educate, and connect entrepreneurs. We published our first paper about 1MC in March 2013, which presented results of an initial survey among 1MC participants to identify their demographic characteristics, information about whether they were a founder or co-founder of a startup, and their attendance patterns at 1MC. This second paper is based primarily on another round of surveys we conducted in May 2013 and January 2014. This time, we deepen our analysis particularly on local networking activities, such as entrepreneurs’ connections to other local programs and information collection via Twitter activities.Key findings include:• Entrepreneurs follow local entrepreneurs. While the most popular Twitter accounts in the United States belong to celebrities, entrepreneurs are studious by primarily following entrepreneurship-focused accounts, such as those by other entrepreneurs, entrepreneurial programs, and individuals affiliated with local entrepreneurship support organizations. • Entrepreneurship is a local phenomenon. The most influential Twitter feeds among the entrepreneurs surveyed are primarily local. • Local network thickens over time. The network of 1MC participants gets considerably more connected over the eight months of our analysis. • Different programs reach different entrepreneurs. While the attendance of 1MC in Kansas City — more than 250 weekly — is by no means small, we observe heterogeneity within the local entrepreneurial ecosystem. We found a considerable overlap between 1MC and Startup Weekend attendees, as well as a strong connection between Kauffman FastTrac® and KCSourceLink® participants/users; however, there is little overlap between 1MC and FastTrac, and no evidence of a single “catch-all” program. One interpretation of these results is that different types of entrepreneurs use different types of programs to meet their needs. • Entrepreneurial demand is high for peer-based learning and networking. The fast growth experienced by the 1MC program, from Kansas City to the soon-to-be thirty-five other cities across the country, suggests that there is a demand from entrepreneurs for opportunities to learn from and connect with their local peers.Implications:• Think local. Policymakers, entrepreneurship supporters, and entrepreneurs themselves should keep in mind the locally structured nature of entrepreneurial networks. Thus, it will be most effective to communicate with entrepreneurs within a local sphere. • One size does not fit all. A single popular entrepreneurship program does not necessarily reach many types of entrepreneurs, and entrepreneurs seek out and build a diverse array of networks. When creating or promoting new entrepreneurship programs, policymakers and entrepreneurship-supporters should consider what types of entrepreneurs are already served by current existing programs and what types of entrepreneurs still are underserved.
Add a topic feature to learning to rank model

Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA), is heavily cited in the machine learning literature, but its feasibility and effectiveness in information retrieval is mostly unknown. Learning to rank is useful for document retrieval, it uses feature vector to rank, but there is no feature about document topic. Our paper combines LDA and learning to rank, adds a topic feature into the feature vector of learning to rank algorithm. And the experiment results show that the topic feature has improved the rank result effectively.
MEOSAR Cost Escalation Risk

Abstract : On 10 February 2014, Senior Cost Analyst, Peter Iburg, CMA, of Directorate of Costing Services, (D Cost S), requested DRDC CORAs assistance with determining the cost escalation risk for the Medium Earth Orbit Search and Rescue (MEOSAR) project. Following a project meeting on 12 February 2014, Mr. Iburg provided us with subject matter expert(s) (SME) cost escalation data on 21 February 2014 in the form of three point estimates (low-expected-high) with confidence levels on 62 MEOSAR budget line items. Mr. Iburg asked that we determine the median and 85th percentile on the total cost of the project, the cost of the definition phase, and the cost of the implementation phase, using SME inputs.
Critical Points and Traveling Wave in Locomotion: Experimental Evidence and Some Theoretical Considerations

The central pattern generator (CPG) architecture for rhythm generation remains partly elusive. We compare cat and frog locomotion results, where the component unrelated to pattern formation appears as a temporal grid, and traveling wave respectively. Frog spinal cord microstimulation with N-methyl-D-Aspartate (NMDA), a CPG activator, produced a limited set of force directions, sometimes tonic, but more often alternating between directions similar to the tonic forces. The tonic forces were topographically organized, and sites evoking rhythms with different force subsets were located close to the constituent tonic force regions. Thus CPGs consist of topographically organized modules. Modularity was also identified as a limited set of muscle synergies whose combinations reconstructed the EMGs. The cat CPG was investigated using proprioceptive inputs during fictive locomotion. Critical points identified both as abrupt transitions in the effect of phasic perturbations, and burst shape transitions, had biomechanical correlates in intact locomotion. During tonic proprioceptive perturbations, discrete shifts between these critical points explained the burst durations changes, and amplitude changes occurred at one of these points. Besides confirming CPG modularity, these results suggest a fixed temporal grid of anchoring points, to shift modules onsets and offsets. Frog locomotion, reconstructed with the NMDA synergies, showed a partially overlapping synergy activation sequence. Using the early synergy output evoked by NMDA at different spinal sites, revealed a rostrocaudal topographic organization, where each synergy is preferentially evoked from a few, albeit overlapping, cord regions. Comparing the locomotor synergy sequence with this topography suggests that a rostrocaudal traveling wave would activate the synergies in the proper sequence for locomotion. This output was reproduced in a two-layer model using this topography and a traveling wave. Together our results suggest two CPG components: modules, i.e., synergies; and temporal patterning, seen as a temporal grid in the cat, and a traveling wave in the frog. Animal and limb navigation have similarities. Research relating grid cells to the theta rhythm and on segmentation during navigation may relate to our temporal grid and traveling wave results. Winfree’s mathematical work, combining critical phases and a traveling wave, also appears important. We conclude suggesting tracing, and imaging experiments to investigate our CPG model.
Neisseria gonorrhoeae NspA Induces Specific Bactericidal and Opsonic Antibodies in Mice

ABSTRACT Neisseria gonorrhoeae surface protein A (NspA) is a highly conserved gonococcal antigen. To explore the potential of NspA in vaccine development against gonorrhea, BALB/c mice were immunized with pcNspA containing the NspA gene from N. gonorrhoeae strain WHO-A via intramuscular (i.m.) injection, intranasal (i.n.) immunization, or intravaginal (i.vag.) immunization. Following the last DNA immunization, mice were boosted with recombinant NspA (rNspA). Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) indicated that all immunized mice generated measurable NspA-specific IgG and IgA in serum and secretory IgA (sIgA) in vaginal wash fluids. The antisera had bactericidal and opsonic activities. These data demonstrated that NspA induced antibodies with antigonococcal activity.
Fouling-resistant surfaces of tropical sea stars

Abstract Qualitative evidence suggests sea stars are free of fouling organisms; however the presence of fouling-resistant surfaces of sea stars has not previously been documented. Field surveys were conducted in northern Queensland, Australia, during the wet and dry seasons and several tropical sea star species were examined for surface-associated micro- and macro-organisms. Mean bacterial abundances on seven sea star species were approximately 104 to 105 cells cm−2 during both seasons. There were no consistent trends in bacterial abundances with season, species and aboral positions on sea star arms. No common generalist fouling organisms, such as algae, barnacles, serpulid polychaetes, bryozoans and ascidians, were found on any specimens of 12 sea star species. However, low numbers of parasitic and commensal macro-organisms were found on six sea star species. The gastropods Parvioris fulvescens, Asterolamia hians, Thyca (Granulithyca) nardoafrianti and Thyca crystallina were found exclusively on the sea stars Archaster typicus, Astropecten indicus, Nardoa pauciforis and Linckia laevigata, respectively. The shrimp Periclimenes soror was only found on Acanthaster planci, and the polychaete Ophiodromus sp. on A. typicus. The copepods Stellicola illgi and Paramolgus sp. were only found on L. laevigata and Echinaster luzonicus, respectively. As no common generalist fouling organisms were discovered, sea stars offer an excellent model to investigate the mechanisms driving fouling-resistant surfaces and the selective settlement of specialist invertebrates.
Successful Management of Ultrasound-Guided Combined Spinal-EpiduralAnesthesia for Cesarean Section in a Patient with Achondroplasia

Anesthetic management of the pregnant achondroplastic patient for cesarean section poses significant challenges for anesthetists when coupled with anesthetic risks encountered during the third trimester of pregnancy. We report the case of a 25-year-old, 107 cm in height, and 37-week woman with achondroplasia who underwent neuraxial anesthesia for an elective cesarean section. Due to lumbar hyperlordosis and tissue edema, spinous processes could not be palpated and ultrasound probe was used to identify the vertebral interspace and also, the distance to the ligamentum flavum was measured. Accompanied by combined spinal-epidural (CSE) set, epidural space was located and a spinal needle was placed to the subarachnoid space. After 5 mg 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine with 10 μg fentanyl (total volume 1.2 mL) was injected to the subarachnoid space, the epidural catheter was advanced. A bilateral T5 sensory block level to pinprick was obtained after 5 min and the operation was allowed. A baby girl weighing 2460 gr was delivered 7 min after skin incision. The patient felt pain and discomfort during the elevation of the uterus and 3 mL 2% lidocaine was injected twice at 5 min intervals via the epidural catheter. The patient had no complications related to her delivery or anesthetic and was discharged home on the second postoperative day. CSE anesthesia with low spinal dose and ability to increase the level of the block via epidural route when needed, in combination with ultrasound guidance, provided successful and safe anesthesia.
Adaptive Learning in an Expectational Difference Equation with Several Lags: Selecting Among Learn-able REE

It is demonstrated in this paper that adaptive learning in least squares sense may be incapable to reduce, in a satisfactory way, the number of attainable equilibria in a rational expectations model.The model investigated, as an illustration, is the monetary approach to exchange rate determination that is augmented with technical trading in the currency market in the form of moving averages since it is the most commonly used technique according to questionnaire surveys.Because of technical trading in foreign exchange, the current exchange rate is dependent on jmax lags of the exchange rate, and the model has, therefore jmax + 1 nonbubble rational expectations equilibria (REE), where most of them are adaptively learnable.However, by assuming that a solution to the model should have a solution to a nested model as its limit, it is possible to single out a unique equilibrium among the adaptively learnable equilibria that is economically meaningful.Key words: asset pricing, heterogenous agents, least squares learnability, rational expectations equilibria and technical trading JEL classification numbers: C62, F31, G12
An Analysis of Multiple Consecutive Years of Material Weaknesses in Internal Control

ABSTRACT: The primary objective of the current study is to empirically reexamine the relation between material weaknesses in internal control (MW) and cost of equity (CE). We direct particular emphasis to the way non-remediation, as well as remediation, of MW affects a firm's CE. This study utilizes a dataset that contains a large sample of second-year MW non-remediation cases, as well as third-, fourth-, and fifth-year non-remediation cases. The findings provide evidence that reporting MW, absent any remediation, in multiple consecutive years has a significant negative impact on CE. However, the current study also shows that the market views favorably a reduction in the number of MW (i.e., partial remediation). Our study helps to reconcile conflicting results in the literature devoted to the relation between MW and CE. JEL Classifications: M41; M42. Data Availability: Available from sources identified within the article.
Small Firms and the ISO 9000 Approach to Quality Management

DR. FRANCIS CHITTENDEN IS SENIOR FELLOW in business development, Dr. Pannikos Poutziouris and Dr. Syeda-Masooda Mukhtar are fellows in SME management, all at Manchester Business School, England. This paper reports the findings of a large survey about the international quality standard ISO 9000. The paper compares the characteristics of small businesses that use ISO 9000 with firms that do not and explores the reasons why businesses decide to seek registration under the standard. The benefits and disadvantages experienced by the small firms that have registered are also considered. A number of policy recommendations are presented that argue that ISO 9000 should be adapted so that more small firms can enjoy the advantages of registration. ISO 9000 is a quality management system that relies on the formal documentation of operating procedures. However, most small businesses are managed informally through the personal attention of the owner(s) and they perceive ISO 9000 to be expensive to operate and too bureaucratic for their needs. Informally-managed small businesses that adopted ISO 9000 reported increased costs as a result of implementing the standard. The formality required by ISO 9000 prevents many small firms from enjoying the benefits of registration even though, in most cases, the quality of their products and services is satisfactory.
Simulation and comparison of three phase CHB MLI and three phase cascaded voltage source MLI topologies for grid connected PV applications

Cascaded multilevel inverter (MLI) topologies have received an attractive solution for grid connected PV system. In this paper, two-cascaded MLI topologies are presented for grid connected PV system. These are seven level cascaded H-bridge multilevel inverter and three phase cascaded voltage source multilevel inverter. In both presented MLI configurations, each PV module is connected to one DC-DC isolated Ćuk converter to achieve best MPPT as well as used for galvanic isolation in order to improve system efficiency. The DC-DC isolated Ćuk converters are cascaded to amplify the DC voltage in order to be used for medium and high voltage systems. On the other hand, the operation of H-bridge switches is that the two upper switches are operating at line frequency while the two lower switches are operating at switching frequency in order to reduce the switching losses. Simulation results show that both system are well functioning in improving the grid power quality. The three phase grid currents in both systems are at unity power factor and THD of the grid currents are within the acceptable range. Finally, both configurations are compared to each other. The comparison results show that both of them has advantages and disadvantages of the other.
Collaborative Network Management for Urban Revitalization

In the context of globalization, regionalization, and urbanization, business improvement districts (BIDs) emerge on the urban landscape as a public-private mechanism of place management across networks. This article raises the question: In a public-private partnership model that is globalizing, how does the local context shape BID performance management across networks? In search of an answer, this paper uses the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development's urban entrepreneurial governance framework to examine a sociospatial reconfiguration of space in which BIDs are often nestled and within which they manage network structures for service delivery while implementing urban revitalization policy. The article explores the BID model as a microcosmic example of how performance management may emerge through meta-sector network management geared toward creating a globally competitive locale. In so doing, the article draws on qualitative research data from the Newark Downtown District in New Jersey and the Central City Improvement District in Cape Town, (Western Cape, South Africa). Findings from the cross-national triangulated descriptive case study suggest that Newark Downtown District's collaborative network management for capital improvements generates performance-based budgeting, and in Cape Town, collaborative network management facilitates opportunity for transformative social development.
Common Law Exceptions to Employment At Will and U.S. Labor Markets

Employment relationships in the United States were historically governed by the common law doctrine of employment at will. Under this rule, parties to an employment relationship could, in the absence of an explicit contract, unilaterally terminate the match at any time, for any reason, and without penalty. In recent decades. numerous state courts have recognized "exceptions" to employment at will that limit the circumstances of worker dismissal. Using a panel of state labor market aggregates from 1965 to 1994, this article examines the effect of these exceptions on U.S. labor markets. These exceptions are seen to have no effect on aggregate employment nor unemployment. However, temporary employment is observed to increase by a statistically significant 15% following the adoption of an exception. The implied contract exception, in particular, appears to be responsible for this increase. Copyright 2000 by Oxford University Press.