Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Maximum Likelihood Estimation Error and Operational Value-at-Risk Stability

The challenge of using small sample sizes for operational risk capital models fitted via maximum likelihood estimation is well recognized, yet the literature generally provides warning examples rather than a systematic approach. We present a general framework for analyzing maximum likelihood estimation error on operational value-at-risk as a function of sample size for five severity distributions commonly used in operational risk capital models. More specifically, we study the estimation error along three dimensions: the choice of severity distribution, the sample size and the heaviness of the underlying losses. We apply these results to model selection and explore implications for operational risk modeling.
Novel Microstrip Fed Mechanically Tunable Combline Cavity Filter

A novel configuration for mechanically tunable combline bandpass filters is proposed, where the classical resonating rod-tuning screw combination is replaced with a simple printed circuit-tuning screw combination. Moreover, because a printed circuit structure that uses metal vias forms the bottom part of the cavity, the coaxial type feeding and the coaxial to cavity matching of classical combline filters are also replaced with a microstrip feeding. Consequently, the proposed configuration provides smaller size, less weight, integration with other printed circuits and significant simplification in the fabrication process. A prototype filter is designed and fabricated for verification. The measured results are in good agreement with the simulation, and the filter exhibits very good harmonic suppression.
The applicability of a validated team-based learning student assessment instrument to assess United Kingdom pharmacy students’ attitude toward team-based learning

Purpose It aimed at testing the validity and reliability of a validated team-based learning student assessment instrument (TBL-SAI) to assess United Kingdom pharmacy students’ attitude toward TBL. Methods TBL-SAI, consisting of 33 items, was administered to undergraduate pharmacy students from two schools of pharmacy each at University of Wolverhampton and University of Bradford were conducted on the data, along with comparison between the two schools. Results Students’ response rate was 80.0% (138/173) in completion of the instrument. Overall, the instrument demonstrated validity and reliability when used with pharmacy students. Sub-analysis between schools of pharmacy did, however, show that four items from Wolverhampton data, had factor loadings of less than 0.40. No item in the Bradford data had factor loadings less than 0.40. Cronbach’s alpha score was reliable at 0.897 for the total instrument: Wolverhampton, 0.793 and Bradford, 0.902. Students showed preference to TBL, with Bradford’s scores being statistically higher (P<0.005). Conclusion This validated instrument has demonstrated reliability and validity when used with pharmacy students. Furthermore students at both schools preferred TBL compared to traditional teaching.
Evaluation of a whole‐genome amplification method based on adaptor‐ligation PCR of randomly sheared genomic DNA

High‐throughput genetic studies often require large quantities of DNA for a variety of analyses. Developing and assessing a whole‐genome amplification method is thus important, especially with the current desire for large‐scale genotyping in previously collected samples for which limited DNA is available. The method we have developed, called PRSG, is based on an adaptor‐ligation–mediated PCR of randomly sheared genomic DNA. An unbiased representation was evaluated by performing PCR on 2,607 exons of 367 genes, which are randomly distributed throughout the genome, on PRSG products of hundreds of individuals. An infrequent loss (<1%) of the exon sequence on the PRSG products was found. Out of 307 microsatellites on various chromosomes, 258 (84%) were amplified in both the PRSG product and an original DNA, whereas 49 (16%) microsatellites were lost only in the PRSG product. Array CGH analysis of 287 loci for measuring the relative gene copy number demonstrated that a low bias was detected. Moreover, this method was validated on 100–1,000 laser‐captured cells from paraffin‐embedded tissues. These data show that PRSG can provide a sufficient amount of genomic sequence for a variety of genetic analyses as well as for long‐term storage for future work. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Engendering Learning: Experiences of Peer Educators Trained as Entangled Learners

Building on previous research on skills individuals develop through their work as peer educators, we present a case study to uncover the experiences of our peer educators whose training is based in the processes of Entangled Learning. As Entangled Learners, individuals engage in practice-based activities within a supportive community to learn deeply, employing skills that include documenting self-regulation, reflection, integration, and collaboration. Using a mixture of qualitative analysis methods for examining data from a first-semester peer educator training course, we discovered that our trainees’ appreciation for learning in a community and their enhanced understanding of learning processes compelled them to engender deeper learning in others. Thus, Entangled Learning shows promise as a process model for peer educator training to produce skillful, self-directed learners.
CT and MRI Measurements of Tibial Tubercle–Trochlear Groove Distances Are Not Equivalent in Patients With Patellar Instability

Background: Tibial tubercle–trochlear groove distance (TT-TG) is a commonly used measurement for surgical decision making in patients with patellofemoral malalignment and instability. This measurement has historically been performed utilizing axial computed tomography (CT). More recently, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been proposed as an equivalent method, but this has not yet been fully validated. Purpose: To determine the reliability of TT-TG distance measurements on both MRI and CT and to determine whether the measurements are interchangeable with one another. Study Design: Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2. Methods: All patients with patellar instability who underwent both CT and MRI of the knee from 2003 to 2011 were included (n = 59 knees in 54 patients). Two fellowship-trained musculoskeletal radiologists measured the TT-TG distances for each patient by CT and MRI in a randomized, blinded fashion. Interobserver reliability was calculated between radiologists for both imaging modalities, and intermethod reliability was calculated between the 2 imaging modalities. The results are reported using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) and Bland-Altman analysis. Results: The 59 knees had a mean TT-TG distance of 16.9 mm (range, 8.3-25.8 mm) by CT and 14.7 mm (range, 1.5-25.1 mm) by MRI. Interobserver reliability between the radiologists was considered excellent for both CT and MRI (ICC = 0.777 and 0.843, respectively). When comparing CT to MRI, the ICC was considered only fair for each of the raters (0.532 and 0.539). Eleven patients (19%) had a TT-TG distance of ≥20 mm on CT preoperatively and underwent distal realignment by tibial tubercle osteotomy. In this surgical subgroup, the mean TT-TG distance was 22.5 mm (range, 19.8-25.8 mm) by CT and only 18.7 mm (range, 14.4-22.8 mm) by MRI for a mean difference of 3.80 mm (P < .001). Conclusion: The TT-TG distance can be measured with excellent interrater reliability on both MRI and CT; however, the values derived from these 2 tests may not be interchangeable. This observation should be taken into consideration when MRI is used for surgical planning because MRI may underestimate the TT-TG distance when compared with CT.
Estimating orientation with gyroscopes and accelerometers.

Many systems for recording human movement need some reference from beacons near the subject, such as video cameras. Our goal is to measure human kinematics with sensors that are placed on the segments of interest. This way, experiments in which human movement is recorded are not restricted to a lab. Our inertial sensor-unit consists of a little box with three miniature gyroscopes (Murata ENC05E) and three linear accelerometers (AD xl05) that measure 3D angular velocity and linear acceleration, respectively. Both the gyroscope and accelerometer signals contain information about the orientation of the sensor. The sensor orientation can be obtained by integration of the angular velocity signals obtained from the gyroscopes [1]. This operation introduces drift in the estimated orientation. Accelerometers do not only measure the acceleration of the sensor, but also the gravitational vector. This gravitational component not only has a bigger magnitude for many human movements but also always points downwards. This knowledge can be used to make an estimation of the tilt. The tilt is the angle between the sensor axes and the vertical. This tilt estimation is not very precise but does not suffer from drift. The abstract describes a way to fuse both sensors (gyroscopes and accelerometers) to obtain an estimate of the orientation that is both accurate and is limited in integration drift.
Improving decision-making based on visual perception via a collaborative brain-computer interface

In the presence of complex stimuli, in the absence of sufficient time to complete the visual parsing of a scene, or when attention is divided, an observer can only take in a subset of the features of a scene, potentially leading to poor decisions. In this paper we look at the possibility of integrating the percepts from multiple non-communicating observers as a means of achieving better joint perception and better decision making. Our approach involves the combination of brain-computer interface (BCI) technology with human behavioural responses. To test our ideas in controlled conditions, we asked observers to perform a simple visual matching task involving the rapid sequential presentation of pairs of visual patterns and the subsequent decision as whether the two patterns in a pair were the same or different. Visual stimuli were presented for insufficient time for the observers to be certain of the decision. The degree of difficulty of the task also depended on the number of matching features between the two patterns. The higher the number, the more difficult the task. We recorded the response times of observers as well as a neural feature which predicts incorrect decisions and, thus, indirectly indicates the confidence of the decisions made by the observers. We then built a composite neuro-behavioural feature which optimally combines these behavioural and neural measures. For group decisions, we tested the use of a majority rule and three further decision rules which weigh the decisions of each observer based on response times and our neural and neuro-behavioural features. Results indicate that the integration of behavioural responses and neural features can significantly improve accuracy when compared with individual performance. Also, within groups of each size, decision rules based on such features outperform the majority rnle.
Respiration-linked proton translocation coupled to anaerobic reduction of manganese(IV) and iron(III) in Shewanella putrefaciens MR-1

An oxidant pulse technique, with lactate as the electron donor, was used to study respiration-linked proton translocation in the manganese- and iron-reducing bacterium Shewanella putrefaciens MR-1. Cells grown anaerobically with fumarate or nitrate as the electron acceptor translocated protons in response to manganese (IV), fumarate, or oxygen. Cells grown anaerobically with fumarate also translocated protons in response to iron(III) and thiosulfate, whereas those grown with nitrate did not. Aerobically grown cells translocated protons only in response to oxygen. Proton translocation with all electron acceptors was abolished in the presence of the protonophore carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenylhydrazone (20 microM) and was partially to completely inhibited by the electron transport inhibitor 2-n-heptyl-4-hydroxyquinoline N-oxide (50 microM).
Returns to compensation in trucking: Does safety pay?

Large truck crashes remain a significant problem in the truckload sector of the US motor carrier industry. Employing a unique firm-level data set from a large US truckload motor carrier, we identified two different driver groups hired during two distinct pay regimes. Before-and-after data on wages and safety outcomes created a natural experiment. Higher wages paid to experienced drivers in the new pay regime led to higher driver retention rates. Experienced drivers had lower average crash costs and were more productive during each tenure month. Experienced drivers had a much larger expected discounted net present value when compared with inexperienced drivers. As the previously inexperienced drivers gained additional experience, their crash probabilities and their value began to mirror those of the experienced drivers, demonstrating the value of greater tenure. This research supports ‘safe rates’ public policy because safety pays – for trucking companies, for cargo owners and for society. JEL Codes: J24, J28, J33
Benzodiazepine Treatment Causes Uncoupling of Recombinant GABAA Receptors Expressed in Stably Transfected Cells

Abstract: GABAA and benzodiazepine receptors are allosterically coupled, and occupation of either receptor site increases the affinity of the other. Chronic exposure of primary neuronal cultures to benzodiazepine agonists reduces these allosteric interactions. Neurons express multiple GABAA receptor subunits, and it has been suggested that uncoupling is due to changes in the subunit composition of the receptor. To determine if uncoupling could be observed with expression of defined subunits, mouse Ltk− cells stably transfected with GABAA receptors (bovine α1, β1, and γ2L subunits) were treated with flunitrazepam (Flu) or clonazepam. The increase in [3H]Flu binding affinity caused by GABA (GABA shift or coupling) was significantly reduced in cells treated chronically with the benzodiazepines, whereas the KD and Bmax of [3H]Flu binding were unaffected. The uncoupling caused by clonazepam treatment occurred rapidly with a t1/2 of ∼30 min. The EC50 for clonazepam treatment was ∼0.3 µM, and cotreatment with the benzodiazepine antagonist Ro 15‐1788 (5.6 µM) prevented the effect of clonazepam. The uncoupling observed in this system was not accompanied by receptor internalization, is unlikely to be due to changes in receptor subunit composition, and probably represents posttranslational changes. The rapid regulation of allosteric coupling by benzodiazepine treatment of the stably transfected cells should provide insights to the mechanisms of coupling between GABAA and benzodiazepine receptors as well as benzodiazepine tolerance.
Pipeline capacity and the dynamics of Alberta crude oil price spreads

From 2011 until the end of 2014, a larger than normal price spread emerged between West Texas Intermediate (WTI) and Western Canadian Select (WCS). This led many participants in Canada’s energy sector to advocate for the expansion of Canada’s crude oil pipeline system as they believed that excess supply could not be moved from production regions in Northern Alberta to those markets that would yield the highest return. This article considers the impact constrained transportation capacity has on the price spread between WCS and other world prices such as WTI. A Markov-switching model is used to identify regimes associated with binding/non-binding pipeline capacity. Our results confirm the predictions of models of spatial arbitrage under capacity constraints. When there is sufficient transportation capacity the price spreads reflect transport costs (includes fees, insurance, etc.) plus any premium for the quality difference between the crude oils compared. However, during periods of tight capacity the spread becomes more volatile and on average exceeds transport costs plus the quality premium. We compare our results to newly available pipeline data and find that periods of tight capacity as identified through the price data are substantially fewer than that suggested by the pipeline capacity data.
The Rowett rat strain is resistant to renal fibrosis.

BACKGROUND Genetic susceptibility to renal fibrosis may determine the individual rate of progression to renal failure. We aimed to study the progression in Rowett (RO) rats, a strain we found resistant to subtotal nephrectomy (SNX), comparing to Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats, a strain with established sensitivity in a radical ablation/infarction and diet-induced SNX model. METHODS Eight-week-old male RO (RO-SNX) and SD (SD-SNX, n = 5/group) rats underwent SNX and were kept on high protein and salt diet. Kidney function was monitored and the kidneys were evaluated by histology and immunohistochemistry 5 weeks after SNX. RESULTS RO-SNX rats had only mild proteinuria and less glomerulosclerosis, accompanied by less fibronectin and TGF-beta staining as compared to SD-SNX rats. Glomerular nitrotyrosine staining was less intense in RO-SNX vs SD-SNX, accompanied by less podocyte damage as demonstrated by desmin staining. CONCLUSION Our results demonstrate the importance of podocyte damage in glomerulosclerosis and that Rowett rats are protected from renal fibrosis. To our knowledge, this is the first strain of rats with unknown genetic resistance, which makes the strain attractive for studying the genetic background of renal fibrosis.
Evaluating the Economic Impact of a Targeted Medication Intervention Program

Objective: To calculate the return on investment (ROI) for a targeted medication intervention program developed by corporate management of a community pharmacy. Design: Retrospective analysis and cross-sectional survey. Setting: Regional community pharmacy chain in North Carolina. Participants: Targeted medication interventions completed from February 1, 2010, to July 31, 2010, were included in the retrospective analysis. Community pharmacists employed by the pharmacy chain that completed the questionnaire were included in the cross-sectional analysis. Intervention: Targeted medication intervention services were provided to the patient and documented by the pharmacist. Main Outcome Measure: The ROI for a community pharmacist-provided targeted medication intervention program. Results: Of the 180 pharmacists, 69 completed the questionnaire (38% response rate). The average time to complete one targeted medication intervention was calculated to be 22.63 minutes. The total cost for providing a targeted medication intervention program during the study time frame was $15 760.86. Total revenue was $15 216.00; therefore, the program resulted in an ROI to the pharmacy chain of negative 3%. Conclusion: This 6-month study resulted in an ROI to the pharmacy chain of negative 3%. Under the current reimbursement model, for this program to break even, the average time to complete one targeted medication intervention must equal 21.85 minutes or less.
Aphis (Hemiptera: Aphididae) species groups found in the Midwestern United States and their contribution to the phylogenetic knowledge of the genus

A phylogeny of the genus Aphis Linnaeus, 1 758 was built primarily from specimens collected in the Midwest of the United States. A data matrix was constructed with 68 species and 41 morphological characters with respective character states of alate and apterous viviparous females. Dendrogram topologies of analyses performed using UPGMA (Unweighted Pair Group Method with Arithmetic Mean), Maximum Parsimony and Bayesian analysis of Cytochrome Oxidase I, Elongation Factor 1‐α and primary endosymbiont Buchnera aphidicola 16S sequences were not congruent. Bayesian analysis strongly supported most terminal nodes of the phylogenetic trees. The phylogeny was strongly supported by EF1‐α, and analysis of COI and EF1‐α molecular data combined with morphological characters. It was not supported by single analysis of COI or Buchnera aphidicola 16S. Results from the Bayesian phylogeny show 4 main species groups: asclepiadis, fabae, gossypii, and middletonii. Results place Aphis and species of the genera Protaphis Börner, 1952, Toxoptera Koch, and Xerobion Nevsky, 1928 in a monophyletic clade. Morphological characters support this monophyly as well. The phylogeny shows that the monophyletic clade of the North American middletonii species group belong to the genus Protaphis: P. debilicornis (Gillette & Palmer, ), comb. nov., P. echinaceae (Lagos and Voegtlin, ), comb. nov., and P. middletonii (Thomas, ). The genus Toxoptera should be considered a subgenus of Aphis (stat. nov.). The analysis also indicates that the current genus Iowana Frison, 1954 should be considered a subgenus of Aphis (stat. nov.).
Evaluation of two injection sclerosants in the treatment of symptomatic haemorrhoids in Nigerians

Objectives: The objective of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of 5% phenol in almond oil with 50% dextrose water as sclerosants in the treatment of first- to third-degree haemorrhoids. Patients and Methods: This was a prospective, comparative study conducted on eighty patients with first-, second- and third-degree haemorrhoids who consented to treatment by injection sclerotherapy with either 5% phenol in almond oil or 50% dextrose water. They were randomised equally into two groups. Results: A total of eighty patients including 58 males and 22 females whose age ranged from 19 to 61 years were included in the study. Bleeding was the chief symptom which was present in 78 (97.5%) patients, and there was complete resolution of this in 92.3% and 89.7% in the 5% phenol in almond oil and 50% dextrose water groups, respectively, at 6 months (P = 0.905). Similar degrees of resolution were noted for anal protrusion (89.1% and 85.3% in the 5% phenol in almond oil and 50% dextrose water group, respectively, P = 0.899). The overall complication rate was 3.6% with anal mucosa ulceration being the only complication, occurring in three patients who had 5% phenol in almond oil. Peri-procedure pain, patients satisfaction and acceptability were not significantly different in both groups (P = 0.912, 0.928 and 0.926 respectively). Conclusion: Five percent phenol in almond oil and 50% dextrose water are equally effective sclerosants in the treatment of haemorrhoids with very low complication rates.
The Role of Sectoral Composition in the Evolution of the Skill Wage Premium

The main contribution of this paper is to consider sector-specific productivity and factor-specific productivity effects in the analysis of the evolution of the skill wage premium. I use data on wages and employment for 30 industries that compose the U.S. economy to examine the evolution of employment and skill-intensity by sector. To guide the empirical work, I construct a simple two-sector model that explores the role of heterogenous technology in the process of structural change. I show that the college premium depends crucially on industry-specific elasticities of substitution between skilled and unskilled labor and on the nature of the factor augmenting technology. The model allows me to derive closed form expressions for the aggregate elasticity of substitution and estimate its evolution. I find that the degree of skilled-unskilled labor substitutability is diminishing as sectors with low flexibility (e.g. services) are becoming increasingly important.
New LC oscillator topology in CMOS 0.18/spl mu/m technology

This paper presents a new inductance-capacitance (LC) oscillator topology. The circuit configuration proposed employs a single inductor for the LC resonator tank. The tank is connected to an NMOS cross-coupled pair with PMOS active load. A second NMOS cross-coupled pair is placed between the gates of the active loads to enhance the positive feedback without degrading the phase noise. The technology used for the design is a standard CMOS 0.18mum. Simulations are shown to compare the performance of the proposed topology, in terms of phase noise and power consumption, with the well-known complementary cross-coupled topology and the NMOS cross-coupled topology with active load