Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Quick-witted entrepreneurs versus systematic managers: a comparative analysis of decision-making competence

PurposeDecision-making competence (DMC) of entrepreneurs and managers is a longstanding topic in this increasingly globalized world. These figures operate in conditions not within their own control, and good levels of DMC are often considered to be desirable for the flourishing of business and society. This paper reports an empirical investigation on the DMC of entrepreneurs and managers, in an attempt to inform about their tendencies to incur in risky and costly choices.Design/methodology/approachThree cognitive biases associated with operational strategies and individual characteristics of entrepreneurs and managers, namely under/overconfidence (UOC, i.e. self-confidence in taking decisions), resistance to sunk costs (RSC, i.e. propensity to take cost investments) and consistency in risk perception (CRP, i.e. how well individuals understand probability rules) were considered . Cognitive biases measures were used in a cross-sectional study on a sample of n = 639 entrepreneurs and n = 512 managers. Data collected via online survey were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics to determine differences among entrepreneurs and managers DMC.FindingsAnalyses reveal that entrepreneurs exhibit higher levels of UOC compared to managers with a marked presence of UOC among entrepreneurs at younger ages. Conversely, performance regarding RSC improves with higher education levels while age and RSC are positively correlated only for managers, regardless of education. Lastly, entrepreneurs and managers resulted as not being affected by CRP. This study discusses these results to provide initial insights for further avenues of research and practice.Originality/valueThe study offers an innovative, evidence-based viewpoint on how entrepreneurs and managers deal with risky and costly decisions. It offers an initial understanding of the role of UOC, RSC and CRP, that is specific cognitive biases associated with operational strategies and individual characteristics, in the DMC of these working figures. The study forwards avenues of scrutiny of quick-witted entrepreneurs and systematic managers.
Reciprocal relationships between self-control and self-authenticity: a two-wave study

Both self-control and self-authenticity are critical to individuals’ mental health and social adjustment, but their relationship has received little attention. Research demonstrates that exerting self-control could help individuals achieve true self and might be promoted by perceiving authenticity. Accordingly, this study utilized a longitudinal design and investigated the temporal relationship between self-control and self-authenticity in a large sample of 2,982 Chinese adolescents (Mage = 17.53, SD = 0.84). Correlation analysis showed that participants possessing higher self-control were associated with greater self-authenticity. Cross-lagged path analysis revealed a reciprocal relationship between self-control and self-authenticity over time. Moreover, bivariate latent change score model indicated that self-control predicted an increase in self-authenticity across time, and vice versa. Overall, this study advances our understanding and suggests that restraining temptation and impulse can promote adolescents’ authenticity, and that the experience of authenticity, in turn, facilitates their self-regulation.
The eukaryome of African children is influenced by geographic location, gut biogeography, and nutritional status

Abstract Eukaryotes have historically been studied as parasites, but recent evidence suggests they may be indicators of a healthy gut ecosystem. Here, we describe the eukaryome along the gastrointestinal tract of children aged 2–5 years and test for associations with clinical factors such as anaemia, intestinal inflammation, chronic undernutrition, and age. Children were enrolled from December 2016 to May 2018 in Bangui, Central African Republic and Antananarivo, Madagascar. We analyzed a total of 1104 samples representing 212 gastric, 187 duodenal, and 705 fecal samples using a metabarcoding approach targeting the full ITS2 region for fungi, and the V4 hypervariable region of the 18S rRNA gene for the overall eukaryome. Roughly, half of all fecal samples showed microeukaryotic reads. We find high intersubject variability, only a handful of taxa that are likely residents of the gastrointestinal tract, and frequent co-occurrence of eukaryotes within an individual. We also find that the eukaryome differs between the stomach, duodenum, and feces and is strongly influenced by country of origin. Our data show trends towards higher levels of Fusarium equiseti, a mycotoxin producing fungus, and lower levels of the protist Blastocystis in stunted children compared to nonstunted controls. Overall, the eukaryome is poorly correlated with clinical variables. Our study is of one of the largest cohorts analyzing the human intestinal eukaryome to date and the first to compare the eukaryome across different compartments of the gastrointestinal tract. Our results highlight the importance of studying populations across the world to uncover common features of the eukaryome in health.
Calcineurin-independent NFATc1 signaling is essential for survival of Burkitt lymphoma cells

In Burkitt lymphoma (BL), a tumor of germinal center B cells, the pro-apoptotic properties of MYC are controlled by tonic B cell receptor (BCR) signals. Since BL cells do not exhibit constitutive NF-κB activity, we hypothesized that anti-apoptotic NFATc1 proteins provide a major transcriptional survival signal in BL. Here we show that post-transcriptional mechanisms are responsible for the calcineurin (CN) independent constitutive nuclear over-expression of NFATc1 in BL and Eµ-MYC – induced B cell lymphomas (BCL). Conditional inactivation of the Nfatc1 gene in B cells of Eµ-MYC mice leads to apoptosis of BCL cells in vivo and ex vivo. Inhibition of BCR/SYK/BTK/PI3K signals in BL cells results in cytosolic re-location of NFATc1 and apoptosis. Therefore, NFATc1 activity is an integrated part of tonic BCR signaling and an alternative target for therapeutic intervention in BL.
Geometric structures on negatively curved groups and their subgroups

In this thesis, we investigate two explicit families of geometric structures that occur on hy- perbolic groups. After recalling some introductory material, we begin by giving an overview of the theory of special cube complexes, with a particular focus on properties of subgroups of hyperbolic special groups. We then describe an explicit algorithm, based on Stallings’ notion of folding for graphs, to construct a local isometry between cube complexes that represents the inclusion of a subgroup H ⊂ G , and show that this terminates if and only if the subgroup is quasiconvex. This provides a potential method by which quasiconvexity for various sub- groups could be verified. In the second part of the thesis, we investigate another family of geometric structures: negatively curved simplicial complexes. We show that groups satisfying a “uniform” C′(1/6) small cancellation condition have such a structure, and then move on to prove a gluing theo- rem (with cyclic edge groups) for these complexes. Using this theorem, we extend the family of groups known to be CAT(−1) to include hyperbolic limit groups, hyperbolic graphs of free groups with cyclic edge groups, and more generally hyperbolic groups whose JSJ components are 2-dimensionally CAT(−1).
Characterization of semi-classical orthogonal polynomials on nonuniform lattices

ABSTRACT We state and prove characterization theorem for semi-classical orthogonal polynomials on nonuniform lattices (quadratic lattices of a discrete or q-discrete variable). This theorem proves the equivalence between the four characterization properties, namely, the Pearson type equation for the linear functional, the strictly quasi-orthogonality of the derivatives, the structure relation, and the Riccati equation for the formal Stieltjes function. We give the classification of the semi-classical linear functional of class one on nonuniform lattice. Using the definition and the properties of the associated orthogonal polynomials, we prove that semi-classical orthogonal polynomials satisfy the second-order divided difference equation on nonuniform lattices.
Application of a Quantitative PCR to Investigate the Distribution and Dynamics of Two Morphologically Similar Species, Karenia mikimotoi and K. papilionacea (Dinophyceae) in Korean Coastal Waters

Species of the marine dinoflagellate genus Karenia are known to produce various potent biotoxins and can form noxious blooms that cause mass mortalities of fish and shellfish. To date, harmful blooms of the species K. mikimotoi have been reported in Korea, but K. papilionacea was recently recorded off the southern coast of Korea. Here, we developed a quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) assay with specific primer pairs for the accurate detection and quantification of these two similar-looking unarmored species, K. mikimotoi and K. papilionacea, and investigated their distribution and dynamics in Korean coastal waters. Overall, K. papilionacea had not only a wider distribution, but also higher cell abundances (15–2553 cells L−1) than K. mikimotoi (3–122 cells L−1) in surface waters. Of 18 sampling sites, the two Karenia species were found to coexist at two sites. During monitoring at a fixed station (S5), K. papilionacea was generally predominant over K. mikimotoi; however, the two species exhibited similar dynamics and occasionally co-occurred. Both Karenia species showed similar physiological responses to temperature and salinity, requiring similar conditions for optimum growth. These results suggest that blooms of the two species may co-occur and induce a synergistic adverse effect on marine environments.
A stochastic volatility factor model of heston type. Statistical properties and estimation

Abstract In this paper we study the properties of a new multidimensional continuous-time stochastic covariance process, the Stochastic Volatility Factor model. Two helpful conditional characteristic functions, one needed for estimation and the other used in the pricing of financial derivatives are provided, together with the properties of the instantaneous dependence structure. Conditions for stationarity, ergodicity and mixing properties of the increments are studied. The estimation of the model is performed using the Continuum-Generalized Method of Moments (CGMM). A simulation exercise is included showing parameters are recovered, confirming identifiability. The model is also calibrated to exemplary financial data.
Unprecedented X-ray Flaring Activity of Mrk 421 in 2013 April

Mrk 421 showed an unprecedented X-ray flaring behaviour in 2013 April 10--17 when the consecutive outbursts by a factor of 8--16 were observed in the 0.3-10 keV and 3-79 keV bands, and it became one of the brightest objects in the X-ray sky. During these events, the source was also very active on intraday timescales with fractional variability amplitude of 2-47 per cent, and showed the flux doubling and halving time scales of 1.16-7.20 hr and 1.04-3.54 hr, respectively. We have revealed up to 20 cases when the flux varied with 3 sigma significance within 1 ks. In this period, Mrk 421 also underwent the most extreme X-ray spectral variability ever reported for BL Lacertae objects. The location of the synchrotron SED peak moved from about 0.1 keV to almost 20 keV. The photon index at 1 keV and curvature parameter showed the ranges a=1.68-2.83 and b=0.09-0.57, respectively, and varied along with the flux on diverse time scales down to the intervals shorter than 1 ks. While the X-ray outburst were accompanied by very strong TeV-flares, the source was relatively less active in the radio-UV and GeV energy ranges.
Regional 3‐D Modeling of Ground Electromagnetic Field Due To Realistic Geomagnetic Disturbances

During extreme space weather events the fluctuating geomagnetic field induces an electric field in the conducting Earth. This geoelectric field in turn generates currents in ground‐based technological systems, affecting their operation. Thus, calculation of the geoelectric field is a key step in predicting, assessing, and, potentially, forecasting the space weather impact on critical infrastructure. We present an approach and a tool for the first fully coupled regional three‐dimensional (3‐D) forward modeling of the electromagnetic field from far geospace down to the surface of the Earth. Applying the developed tool to the British Isles, we perform a 3‐D study in order to explore in detail the so‐called coastal effect (i.e., the anomalous behavior of the geoelectric field near the coasts) and to understand the limitations of the thin‐sheet model widely used for estimating this effect. For this purpose we compare the results of 3‐D and thin‐sheet modelings for plane wave source of excitation and different periods of variations. We conclude that for the British Isles the thin sheet is a reasonable approximation for periods longer than a few minutes. However, for shorter periods 3‐D modeling is essential. Another inference from the results of 3‐D modeling for plane wave and realistic sources is that for the British Isles the geoelectric field is distorted by the coastal effect practically everywhere on land. Finally, we compare modeled and observed geomagnetic fields at four observatories in the region during the first day of the Halloween storm in 2003 and discuss the results of this comparison.
The Bootstrap and Edgeworth Expansion , by Peter Hall. Pp.352. DM 98. 1992. ISBN 3-540-97720-1 (Springer)

mathematicians (in this country at least) were educated in relative ignorance of the applied sources of some major areas of pure mathematics and of the exciting high-level interactions between mathematical research and real-world problems. Consider two extremes: abstract geometry or topology, and practical mechanics. Topology was developed last century by Henri Poincare' as a tool for attacking intractable questions in celestial mechanics, and although it soon took off into a life of its own it has in recent decades been reaping a rich harvest in that and many other applied fields. Almost wherever we look about us, symmetry plays a significant role, especially in the mathematical models we use to represent the world. For us, gravity acts downwards, so the mathematics of earthbound mechanical problems characteristically has circular symmetry about a vertical axis. In outer space, full three-dimensional rotational symmetry can apply. This is in addition to any specific symmetries in the actual configuration of particles or solid bodies being studied. A programme of careful exploitation of all such symmetry by many researchers, and notably by Jerrold Marsden and co-workers, has recently led to new and important insights into dynamics and stability of mechanical systems. It was a survey of these topics which formed the basis of the series of London Mathematical Society Invited Lectures given by Professor Marsden at the University of Southampton in April 1991 and is now published in this LMS Lecture Notes volume.
Interaction of Cosmic Rays with the Earth's Magnetosphere and Atmosphere - Modeling the Cosmic Ray Induced Ionization and the Production of Cosmogenic Radionuclides

Cosmogenic radionuclides like $^{10}$Be and $^{14}$C are produced by reactions of primary cosmic rays (CR) and secondary particles with atmospheric nuclei, are then mixed in the atmosphere and finally deposited in natural archives like ice sheets, tree rings or sediments. Because the flux of CRs strongly depends on solar activity the production rate of cosmogenic radionuclides being stored in these archives have recorded the solar activity over thousands of years. Although cosmogenic radionuclide measurements can, thus, in principle be used to reconstruct solar activity back in time, the problem arises that reconstructions based on $^{10}$Be and $^{14}$C differ significantly. This work provides a reconstruction which for the first time is consistent with both $^{10}$Be and $^{14}$C archive data. In order to do so, the full simulation chain --- starting with the local interstellar medium beyond the heliosphere and ending with the deposition of the radionuclides in natural archives --- determining the generation of cosmogenic radionuclides has to be taken into account. For the reconstruction of the solar activity over thousands of years in this work the activity is reflected by the solar modulation parameter $\phi$. Investigating first the different local interstellar spectrum (LIS) models this work provides a method to convert them into each other, models the CR modulation within the heliosphere and studies their consistency with terrestrial and space data. Secondly, the particle transport within the Earth's magnetosphere is described, stressing the importance of the field geometry for the vertical cutoff rigidity, complemented by investigations of the direction of incidence. In a third step the secondary particle environment and its dependence on the respective LIS model as well as hadronic interaction models is studied. Using LIS-dependent solar modulation parameters all LIS models are shown to be able to represent the measurements. In order to decide which hadronic interaction model is the more suitable one, fourth, the CR-induced ionization of the atmosphere is investigated, favoring the Bertini model rather than the BIC model. After having successfully validated the local and global production rates of $^{10}$Be, $^{7}$Be, $^{36}$Cl, $^{3}$H, $^{26}$Al and $^{14}$C in a fifth issue, on the basis of modeled and measured production rates and taking into account temporal variations of the Earth's magnetic field strengths, this work provides a new solar modulation parameter being able to represent $^{10}$Be as well as $^{14}$C data over the entire Holocene.
Lenvatinib improves anti-PD-1 therapeutic efficacy by promoting vascular normalization via the NRP-1-PDGFRβ complex in hepatocellular carcinoma

Introduction The limited response to immune checkpoint blockades (ICBs) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) highlights the urgent need for broadening the scope of current immunotherapy approaches. Lenvatinib has been shown a potential synergistic effect with ICBs. This study investigated the optimal method for combining these two therapeutic agents and the underlying mechanisms. Methods The effect of lenvatinib at three different doses on promoting tissue perfusion and vascular normalization was evaluated in both immunodeficient and immunocompetent mouse models. The underlying mechanisms were investigated by analyzing the vascular morphology of endothelial cells and pericytes. The enhanced immune infiltration of optimal-dose lenvatinib and its synergistic effect of lenvatinib and anti-PD-1 antibody was further evaluated by flow cytometry and immunofluorescence imaging. Results There was an optimal dose that superiorly normalized tumor vasculature and increased immune cell infiltration in both immunodeficient and immunocompetent mouse models. An adequate concentration of lenvatinib strengthened the integrity of human umbilical vein endothelial cells by inducing the formation of the NRP-1-PDGFRβ complex and activating the Crkl-C3G-Rap1 signaling pathway in endothelial cells. Additionally, it promoted the interaction between endothelial cells and pericytes by inducing tyrosine-phosphorylation in pericytes. Furthermore, the combination of an optimal dose of lenvatinib and an anti-PD-1 antibody robustly suppressed tumor growth. Conclusions Our study proposes a mechanism that explains how the optimal dose of lenvatinib induces vascular normalization and confirms its enhanced synergistic effect with ICBs.
Correlation Tests Detecting Order Restrictions in Binary Response

The work is on detection of order restrictions in 2 × k cohort study. The existing tests in the literature are mostly based on subjective choice of column scores. Moreover, when the marginal distributions of the column totals differ, it is observed that the normal approximation to the null distribution (having no difference in the disease risks among the exposure categories) of the relevant test statistic for small samples is violated in most of the cases. As a remedy, utilizing such variation in column distributions, single contrast tests are proposed for this purpose. Performance of the proposed tests are assessed numerically and are compared with that of an existing competitor.
Comparison of machine learning statistical downscaling and regional climate models for temperature, precipitation, wind speed, humidity and radiation over Europe under present conditions

There are two main approaches to downscale global climate projections: dynamical and statistical downscaling. Both families have been widely evaluated, but intercomparison studies between the two families are scarce, and usually limited to temperature and precipitation. In this work, we present a comparison between a statistical downscaling model (SDM) based on machine learning and six regional climate models (RCMs) from EURO‐CORDEX, for five variables of interest: temperature, precipitation, wind, humidity and solar radiation under present climatic conditions. The study is conducted at a continental scale over Europe, with a spatial resolution of 0.11° and daily data. Both the SDM and the RCMs are driven by the ERA‐Interim reanalysis, and observations are taken from the gridded dataset E‐OBS. Several aspects have been evaluated: daily series, mean values and extremes, spatial patterns and also temporal aspects. Additionally, a multivariable index (fire weather index) derived from the fundamental variables has been included. The SDM has better scores than the RCMs for all the evaluated metrics with only a few exceptions, mainly related to an underestimation of the variance. After bias correction, both the SDM and the six RCMs present similar results, with no significant differences among them. Results presented here, combined with the low computational expense of SDMs and the limited availability of RCMs over some CORDEX domains, should motivate the consideration of statistical downscaling at the same level as RCMs by official providers of regional information, and its inclusion in reference sites. Nonetheless, further analysis on crucial aspects such as the impact on long‐term trends or the sensitivity of different methods to being driven by global climate models, is needed.
Automated Identification and Shape Analysis of Chorus Elements in the Van Allen Radiation Belts

An important goal of the Van Allen Probes mission is to understand wave‐particle interaction by chorus emissions in terrestrial Van Allen radiation belts. To test models, statistical characterization of chorus properties, such as amplitude variation and sweep rates, is an important scientific goal. The Electric and Magnetic Field Instrument Suite and Integrated Science (EMFISIS) instrumentation suite provides measurements of wave electric and magnetic fields as well as DC magnetic fields for the Van Allen Probes mission. However, manual inspection across terabytes of EMFISIS data is not feasible and as such introduces human confirmation bias. We present signal processing techniques for automated identification, shape analysis, and sweep rate characterization of high‐amplitude whistler‐mode chorus elements in the Van Allen radiation belts. Specifically, we develop signal processing techniques based on the radon transform that disambiguate chorus elements with a dominant sweep rate against hiss‐like chorus. We present representative results validating our techniques and also provide statistical characterization of detected chorus elements across a case study of a 6 s epoch.