Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The Monetary Transmission Mechanism: is it Relevant for Policy?

We study environments with sticky prices, wages or portfolios where it is feasible and optimal to use monetary policy to replicate the allocation under full flexibility. In these environments the optimal policy does not depend on the scope of the frictions. In this sense, the strength of the monetary transmission mechanism is irrelevant for the conduct of monetary policy. So, asymmetries in the strength of the transmission mechanisms do not impose a cost on a common policy.
Teachers and Technology: Comparing University and School Languages Educators' Perceptions of Technology and Their Own IT Literacy

Educators at all levels of education are increasingly required to adopt information technology (IT) and integrate it into their teaching practice. Some researchers have found that this goal is "neither value neutral or universally understood" (Jamieson- Proctor, Burnett, Finger, & Watson, 2006, p. 511). In this paper, I discuss an ongoing study of the perceptions of three groups of language educators relating to the use of IT in their teaching practice and of their own IT literacy collected via responses to a VKRUWTXHVWLRQQD LUH��7KHWKUHHF �LQ� Absalom, 2011). These two school-based groups are compared with language teachers in higher education. The analysis of questionnaire responses will explore perceptions of information and communication technology (ICT) in relation to factors such as gender, age, teaching context and disciplinary identity. The paper will explore the implications of the study, including those relating to professional learning needs.
Smear-layer Removal Using Two Instrumentation and Irrigation Techniques in a Closed System

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of two instrumentation and irrigant techniques in smear-layer removal from root canals. Methodology: Thirty single-rooted teeth were randomly divided into two groups. Group 1 (continuous irrigation) was prepared using Self-adjusting file, and group 2 (manual irrigation; conventional needle irrigation) was prepared using with ProTaper file system. Groups were irrigated using sodium hypochlorite (5%) as an initial irrigant following MTAD in a closed system. Canals were bisected and examined by scanning electron microscopy. Smear layers were evaluated using a five-point scoring system with 2500x magnification. Results: Smear layers were eliminated in the coronal, middle, and apical thirds of the root canal, respectively, in 93%, 80%, and 60% of samples in the group 1, and 67%, 60%, and 27% in the group 2, of the coronal, middle, and apical thirds of the root canals, respectively. Evaluation by SEM showed continuous irrigation differed not-significantly from the manual irrigation group in all areas (P >0.05). Conclusions: Smear layer can be removed properly with suitable irrigation methods. How to cite this article: Kaya S. Smear-layer Removal Using Two Instrumentation and Irrigation Techniques in a Closed System. Int Dent Res 2012;2:60-66. Linguistic Revision: The English in this manuscript has been checked by at least two professional editors, both native speakers of English.
Expression and function of FGFs‐4, ‐8, and ‐9 suggest functional redundancy and repetitive use as epithelial signals during tooth morphogenesis

To elucidate the roles of fibroblast growth factors (FGF) in the regulation of tooth morphogenesis we have analyzed the expression patterns of Fgf‐4, ‐8, and ‐9 in the developing mouse molar and incisor tooth germs from initiation to completion of morphogenesis by in situ hybridization analysis. The expression of these Fgfs was confined to dental epithelial cells at stages when epithelial‐mesenchymal signaling regulates critical steps of tooth morphogenesis. Fgf‐8 and Fgf‐9 mRNAs were present in the oral epithelium of the first branchial arch at E10 and 1 day later expression became more restricted to the area of presumptive dental epithelium and persisted there until the start of epithelial budding. Fgf‐8 mRNAs were not detected later in the developing tooth. Fgf‐4 and Fgf‐9 expression was upregulated in the primary enamel knot, which is a putative signaling center regulating tooth shape. Subsequently, Fgf‐4 and Fgf‐9 were expressed in the secondary enamel knots at the sites of tooth cusps. Fgf‐9 expression spread from the primary enamel knot within the inner enamel epithelium where it remained until E18. In the continuously growing incisors Fgf‐9 expression persisted in the epithelium of the cervical loops. The effects of FGFs were analyzed on the expression of the homeobox‐containing transcription factors Msx‐1 and Msx‐2, which are associated with tissue interactions and regulated by the dental epithelium. Locally applied FGF‐4, ‐8, and ‐9 stimulated intensely the expression of Msx‐1 but not Msx‐2 in the isolated dental mesenchyme. We suggest that the three FGFs act as epithelial signals mediating inductive interactions between dental epithelium and mesenchyme during several successive stages of tooth formation. This data suggest roles for FGF‐8 and FGF‐9 during initiation of tooth development, and for FGF‐4 and FGF‐9 during regulation of tooth shape. FGF‐9 may also be involved in differentiation of odontoblasts. The coexpression of Fgfs with other signaling molecules including Shh and several Bmps and their partly similar effects suggest that the FGFs participate in the signaling networks during odontogenesis. Dev. Dyn. 1998;211:256–268. © 1998 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A Comparative Study of Portfolio Insurance

This paper undertakes a comparative study of portfolio insurance under a variety of modelling strategies. Specifically, we focus on portfolio insurers who drive utility from horizon wealth, with marginal utility tending smoothly to infinity at some pre-specified floor. We solve for the optimal consumption-portfolio-wealth of these portfolio insurers and compare with "constrained" portfolio insurers and "normal agents. " General equilibrium conditions are contrasted under pure-exchange and production-type models. While the market price level is unambiguously increased under pure-exchange, under production the effect on market level is state-dependent. In both models the market volatility and risk premium are decreased by portfolio insurance The paper also investigates the possible relationship between portfolio insurance type trading strategies and market volatility.
Direct binding and functional coupling of α‐synuclein to the dopamine transporters accelerate dopamine‐induced apoptosis

Mutations in α‐synuclein, a protein highly enriched in presynaptic terminals, have been implicated in the expression of familial forms of Parkinson’s disease (PD) whereas native α‐synuclein is a major component of intraneuronal inclusion bodies characteristic of PD and other neurodegenerative disorders. Although overexpression of human α‐synuclein induces dopaminergic nerve terminal degeneration, the molecular mechanism by which α‐synuclein contributes to the degeneration of these pathways remains enigmatic. We report here that α‐synuclein complexes with the presynaptic human dopamine transporter (hDAT) in both neurons and cotransfected cells through the direct binding of the non‐Aβ amyloid component of α‐synuclein to the carboxyl‐terminal tail of the hDAT. α‐Synuclein‐hDAT complex formation facilitates the membrane clustering of the DAT, thereby accelerating cellular dopamine uptake and dopamine‐induced cellular apoptosis. Since the selective vulnerability of dopaminergic neurons in PD has been ascribed in part to oxidative stress as a result of the cellular overaccumulation of dopamine or dopamine‐like molecules by the presynaptic DAT, these data provide mechanistic insight into the mode by which the activity of these two proteins may give rise to this process. —Lee, F. J. S. , Liu, F. , Pristupa, Z. B. , Niznik, H. B. Direct binding and functional coupling of α‐synuclein to the dopamine transporter accelerate dopamine‐induced apoptosis. FASEB J. 15, 916–926 (2001)
Telemedicine in the management of young patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus: a follow-up study.

DCCT (Diabetes Control and Complications Trial) study showed that tight metabolic control of diabetes mellitus can delay the onset and/or reduce the frequency of vascular complications. Telemedicine, i.e. telecommunications and information technologies in health care, is a useful tool to achieve the DCCT goals. Our European Community (EC) sponsored Telematic management of Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (T-IDDM) project implements a telemedicine service through on a careful analysis of current medical practice. The system is based on two components: Patient Unit (PU) and Medical Unit (MU) connected by a Telecommunication system (TS). PU allows data collection and transmission from the patient's house to the hospital, assists self-monitoring activity and suggests insulin variations. PU communicates patient's current metabolic state the MU. MU assists the physician in periodic evaluation and suggests the prescriptions to communicate back defining a treatment protocol. TS system is based on telephone lines, relying on the Intranet technology. To test the system functionality and potential impact in type 1 diabetes clinical practice, we enrolled 6 patients (4 males and 2 females), aged 9.9-15.8 yrs, with disease duration 2.1-6.4 yrs, intensively treated. One girl run out after a 1-year follow-up HbA1c levels decreased, but not significantly. Insulin requirement reduced, significantly in 2 patients (p = 0.02 and p = 0.07). A positive correlation was between number of links and protocol changes (p = 0.01), between number of protocols changes and HbA1c decrease (p = 0.02). In pediatric patients periodical visits are necessary, but T-IDDM enables continuity of care improving access and activities. An index is represented by the high number of messages between the 2 Units, seeming weekly exchange.
Rafts and sphingolipid biosynthesis in the kinetoplastid parasitic protozoa

Although the concept of eukaryotic lipid rafts arouses controversy, recent biophysical studies strongly indicate that inducible, stable and relatively large rafts are a feature of activated mammalian cells. These studies allow us to consider the functional role of lipid rafts in kinetoplastid parasites, which are particularly rich in lipid‐anchored surface molecules. Morphological, biochemical and genetic studies indicate that lipid rafts (and sphingolipid biosythesis) are important in the differentiation of extracellular Leishmania to mammalian‐infective metacyclic promastigotes, perhaps orchestrating the clearly observable reorganization of the plasma membrane during this process that leads to an activated metacyclic primed for invasion. However, the first step in the sphingolipid biosynthetic pathway (mediated by serine palmitoyltransferase), and at least regulated, de novo sphingoid base and ceramide synthesis, are not essential for the pathogenesis of intramacrophage Leishmania amastigotes.
Food security in South Africa: Status quo and policy imperatives

ABSTRACT Although the term itself was only developed in the 1970s, food security has played a central role in policies that have shaped the history of South Africa from the 17th century. As with the changing international interpretation of food security over the past four decades, South African food security determinants have been interpreted differently by different ruling authorities and governments over three centuries. The Natives Land Act of 1913 played a significant role in determining the food security context of the country in terms of the character, composition and contribution of the agricultural sector, shaped consumption patterns and determined rural livelihoods. While food security is expressed as a national objective in a plethora of strategies and programmes, no formal evaluation has been carried out of the food security impact of these programmes, and there is a dire lack of coordination and no enforceable policy to ensure food security. Any national food security policy will need a framework of enforceable legislative measures and statutory coordination and reporting. This article explores the current national and household food security and nutrition situation in South Africa, and it offers recommendations for a comprehensive food security policy.
Supporting equality: patriarchy at work in Europe

Presents a Europe‐wide analysis of employment patterns which reveals three major characteristics of women′s employment: occupational segregation, part‐time working, and pay differentials. Examines how these manifest themselves as a European‐wide phenomenon, and in more detail looks at how they manifest themselves in France, the UK and The Netherlands. Presents data to explore the interrelationship of these three characteristics and their manifestation against national backgrounds of social and employment legislation and child‐care provision. Concludes that simple correlations do not explain women′s position in the workforce and that neither structural nor cultural theories are in themselves enough to understand these complex relationships.
Superstores as District Shopping Centres

In recent years attempts have been made to promote superstores as district centres or ‘focused centres'. This article reviews ideas about the retail hierarchy and shopping centres developed in British planning and, from a recent survey of Exeter, examines differences between the use of superstores and district centres and the utilisation of non-retail facilities. It seems clear that superstore developments fall well outside the traditional concepts of district centres, and their role needs careful examination.
Does Early Maternal Employment Harm Child Development? An Analysis of the Potential Benefits of Leave Taking

More mothers engage in marketplace work today than ever before, with over 33% returning to work by the time their child is 3 months old. This article identifies the effects of maternal marketplace work in the initial months of an infant’s life on the child's cognitive development. Results suggest that such work in the first year of a child’s life has detrimental effects. Where significant, the results also indicate negative effects of maternal employment in the child’s first quarter of life. However, the negative effects of maternal marketplace work are partially offset by positive effects of increased family income.
Inflation, Unemployment and Hysteresis: An alternative view

This paper integrates ideas concerning the influence of the interest rate on the rate of profits with an analysis of inflation and its relation with unemployment. Inflation is regarded, as in Kaleckian contributions, as resulting from inconsistent claims on income, but the approach taken leads to different conclusions concerning the effects of inflation (or deflation) on income distribution, and the circumstances giving rise to acceleration of inflation. The approach followed in the paper also provides explanations of phenomena that have appeared 'puzzling', particularly the association of different unemployment rates with stable inflation, and the persistence of high rates of unemployment.
The Influence of Age and Sex on the Onset and Early Course of Schizophrenia

A new standardised interview for the retrospective assessment of onset and early course of schizophrenia (IRAOS) was used to study the influence of age and sex on time of onset and psychopathology before first admission in 267 schizophrenic patients admitted for the first time. Mean age at onset, according to various operationalised definitions, differed by three to four years between the sexes. The age distribution at the earliest sign of mental disorder showed an early and steep increase until the age of 25 in males, and a delayed and smaller increase in females, with a second peak in women aged 45–79. Schizophrenia began with negative symptoms in 70% of cases, appearing two to six years before admission, and all positive symptoms appearing up to two years before. Both positive and negative symptoms accumulated exponentially. The early course of the disease was similar across age groups, except there was a longer period of negative symptoms before first admission in late-onset schizophrenia in women. The few significant age differences in symptoms were presumably due to general age-dependent reaction patterns like anxiety and depression or the cognitive development of personality, as indicated by an increase in fully elaborated positive symptoms, especially systematised paranoid delusions, with age.
Markov Chains Used to Determine the Model of Stock Value and Compared with Other New Models of Stock Value (P/E Model and Ohlson Model)

The aim of this study a comparison between the three models for the valuation of stocks in Tehran Stock Exchange. These three names PE, Olson or residual income and a Markov chain (Markov) are. Researchers in their study were to calculate the valuation of shares in the first two terms and then calculate the value of the enamel Markov chain to achieve a comparative mode. Result of research shows that almost in all cases, there is no significant difference between explanatory power of these models in determining shares value and investments in Tehran exchange market can for assessment of shares uses from these 3 models, but in most cases residual income assessment model by considering less standard error of regression can say, partly is better model in determining the company's value which maybe the main reason be have high explanatory power of two dependent profit variable overall, and book value of share holder's salary by using the overall accounting relation in comparison with two other models.
Transforming European regional policy: a results-driven agenda and smart specialization

The paper examines the nature, rationale, and logic of the reforms to EU Cohesion Policy. A particular focus of the paper is on the concept of smart specialization and the use of this concept to help facilitate a results-oriented policy agenda. On the one hand, the arguments underpinning the reforms in part relate to modern thinking regarding the role of industrial policy. On the other hand, they also partly relate to advances in our understanding of the relationships between economic geography, technology, and institutions. At the same time, the specific features of the EU context also heavily influence the nature and logic of the changes, whereby legal and institutional matters linking Cohesion Policy to other EU policies all play an important role. Copyright 2013, Oxford University Press.
Context-dependent Route Generation Scheme Using Network Voronoi Diagrams

Researches on computing an optimal route according to user's preference or spatial contexts have been gaining focus recently, as car navigation and pedestrian navigation systems are getting accustomed to be used in daily lives. In this paper, the authors propose a method to compute a path to pass through as many context areas as possible along its route, according to the user's needs. Specifically, the authors apply the concept to construct a Delaunay diagram from neighbor nodes in Voronoi diagram, and use network Voronoi diagram to construct a subgraph based on contexts. For route search, the authors use A* shortest path algorithm over the subgraph. To verify the efficiency of the proposed method with subgraphs, the authors perform route search over subgraphs and base graph, which was generated from the road network of the real space, and compare the results. The results show that the route search by the proposed method consist of more paths with context areas than those performed over the base graph. Moreover, the proposed method reduces the number of steps for path search.
European Call option pricing by the Adomian decomposition method

This article explores the Adomian decomposition method applied to the pricing of European call options in a risk-neutral world with an asset that pays and one that does not pay dividends. A brief introduction to existing methods of pricing, a numerical solution of the Black‐Scholes equation, a construction of a payoff function consistent with the method, and finally some numerical results for a hypothetical experiment are given.
Production of (cid:1) -1,3-galactosyltransferase null pigs by means of nuclear transfer with fibroblasts bearing loss of heterozygosity mutations

Hyperacute rejection of porcine organs by old world primate recipients is mediated through preformed antibodies against galactosyl- (cid:1) -1,3-galactose (Gal (cid:1) -1,3-Gal) epitopes expressed on the pig cell surface. Previously, we generated inbred miniature swine with a null allele of the (cid:1) -1,3-galactosyltransferase locus ( GGTA1 ) by nuclear transfer (NT) with gene-targeted ﬁbroblasts. To expedite the generation of GGTA1 null pigs, we selected spontaneous null mutant cells from ﬁbroblast cultures of heterozygous animals for use in another round of NT. An unexpectedly high rate of spontaneous loss of GGTA1 function was observed, with the vast majority of null cells resulting from loss of the WT allele. Healthy piglets, hemizygous and homozygous for the gene-targeted allele, were produced by NT by using ﬁbroblasts that had undergone deletional and crossover (cid:2) gene conversion events, re-spectively. Aside from loss of Gal (cid:1) -1,3-Gal epitopes, there were no obvious phenotypic differences between these null piglets and WT pigletsfromthesameinbredlines.Infact,congenitalabnormalities observed in the heterozygous NT animals did not reappear in the serially produced null animals.
Construction of a model secretion system for oral streptococci

A DNA fragment corresponding to the secretory domain from the Streptococcus mutans GS-5 gtfB gene, which encodes the putative 38-amino-acid signal peptide of the glucosyltransferase I (GTF-I) enzyme product, has been constructed. This fragment was fused with the alpha-amylase structural gene from alkalophilic Bacillus sp. strain 707. This hybrid gene as well as the intact amylase gene were introduced into an Escherichia coli-streptococcus shuttle vector consisting of three components: the E. coli replicon p15Aori from pACYC177, an erythromycin resistance gene from pAM beta-1, and the streptococcal replicon from pVA838. Transformation of the oral noncariogenic bacterium Streptococcus gordonii with the chimeric plasmid harboring the hybrid amylase gene resulted in strong extracellular amylase production. By contrast, transformants containing the intact amylase gene exhibited only trace amounts of amylase activity in culture fluids. Since the two signal peptide structures of the GTF-I enzyme and the Bacillus amylase are distinct from each other, these differences might result from the inability of S. gordonii to correctly process the Bacillus signal peptide. Furthermore, culture fluids from transformants of S. mutans as well as Streptococcus milleri harboring the hybrid amylase gene showed only weak amylase activity. Deletion of the gtfB, gtfC, or ftf gene from S. mutans GS-5 did not increase amylase secretion following transformation with the hybrid amylase gene. These results suggest that in contrast to S. gordonii, the inability of S. mutans and S. milleri to secrete hybrid amylase molecules could result from incorrect interaction of the secretory components of these organisms with amylase precursor molecules.