Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The Market-Discipline Effects of Subordinated Debt: Enhanced US Commercial Banking-Sector Efficiency and Stability

Using US commercial bank data over the period 2000 to 2008, we examine how the issuance of subordinated debt (SND) affects bank risk-taking and stability, efficiency, and deposit and loan growth rates. We identify the channels by which these effects occur and, using fixed- and random-effects models and system-GMM estimations, we provide evidence that supports these channels. As SND as a percentage of total liabilities rises, bank risk-taking falls. SNDs not only improve banks’ market discipline by directly reducing non-performing loans, but by leading to reduced overhead costs, and SNDs also boost banks’ efficiency and stability. Our results are robust under different model specifications and estimation methodologies.
Fast-Converging Algorithm for Wavefront Reconstruction based on a Sequence of Diffracted Intensity Images

A major advantage of wavefront reconstruction based on a series of diffracted intensity images using only single-beam illumination is the simplicity of setup. Here we propose a fast-converging algorithm for wavefront calculation using single-beam illumination. The captured intensity images are resampled to a series of intensity images, ranging from highest to lowest resampling; each resampled image has half the number of pixels as the previous one. Phase calculation at a lower resolution is used as the initial solution phase at a higher resolution. This corresponds to separately calculating the phase for the lower- and higher-frequency components. Iterations on the low-frequency components do not need to be performed on the higher-frequency components, thus making the convergence of the phase retrieval faster than with the conventional method. The principle is verified by both simulation and optical experiments.
General relativistic ray-tracing algorithm for the determination of the electron–positron energy deposition rate from neutrino pair annihilation around rotating neutron and quark stars

We present a full general relativistic numerical code for estimating the energy–momentum deposition rate (EMDR) from neutrino pair annihilation (). The source of the neutrinos is assumed to be a neutrino-cooled accretion disc around neutron and quark stars. We calculate the neutrino trajectories by using a ray-tracing algorithm with the general relativistic Hamilton's equations for neutrinos and derive the spatial distribution of the EMDR due to the annihilations of neutrinos and antineutrinos around rotating neutron and quark stars. We obtain the EMDR for several classes of rotating neutron stars, described by different equations of state of the neutron matter, and for quark stars, described by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) bag model equation of state and in the colour–flavour-locked (CFL) phase. The distribution of the total annihilation rate of the neutrino–antineutrino pairs around rotating neutron and quark stars is studied for isothermal discs and accretion discs in thermodynamical equilibrium. We demonstrate both the differences in the equations of state for neutron and quark matter and rotation with the general relativistic effects significantly modify the EMDR of the electrons and positrons generated by the neutrino–antineutrino pair annihilation around compact stellar objects, as measured at infinity.
GC-MS headspace analysis of Terminalia ferdinandiana fruit and leaf extracts which inhibit Bacillus anthracis growth

Background: Terminalia ferdinandiana (Kakadu plum) is an endemic Australian plant with an extremely high antioxidant capacity. The fruit has long been used by the first Australians as a nutritional food and as a medicine and recent studies have reported its potent growth inhibitory activity against a broad panel of bacteria. Despite this, T. ferdinandiana extracts are yet to be tested for the ability to inhibit the growth of Bacillus anthracis. Materials and Methods: Solvent extracts were prepared using both the fruit and leaf of Kakadu plum.The ability to inhibit the growth of B. anthracis was investigated using a disc diffusion assay. Their MIC values were determined to quantify and compare their efficacies. Toxicity was determined using the Artemia franciscana nauplii bioassay. The most potent extracts were investigated using non-targeted GCMS head space analysis (with screening against a compound database) for the identification and characterisation of individual components in the crude plant extracts. Results: Solvent extractions of T. ferdinandiana fruit and leaf displayed good growth inhibitory activity in the disc diffusion assay against B. anthracis. Fruit ethyl acetate and methanolic leaf extracts were particularly potent growth inhibitors, with MIC values of 451 and 377μg/mL respectively. The fruit methanolic and chloroform extracts, as well as the aqueous leaf extracts also were good inhibitors of B. anthracis growth, albeit with lower efficacy (MIC values of 1800 and 1414 μg/mL respectively). The aqueous fruit extract and leaf chloroform extracts had only low inhibitory activity. All other extracts were completely devoid of growth inhibitory activity. Furthermore, all of the extracts with growth inhibitory activity were nontoxic in the Artemia fransiscana bioassay, with LC50 values >1000 μg/mL. Non-biased GC-MS phytochemical analysis of the most active extracts (fruit ethyl acetate and methanolic leaf) putatively identified and highlighted several compounds that may contribute to the ability of these extracts to inhibit the growth of B. anthracis. Conclusions: The low toxicity of the T. ferdinandiana fruit ethyl acetate and methanolic leaf extracts, as well as their potent growth inhibitory bioactivity against B. anthracis, indicates their potential as medicinal agents in the treatment and prevention of anthrax.
Fourier Rotman Lens Enabled Directional Modulation Transmitter

A 10 GHz Fourier Rotman lens enabled dynamic directional modulation (DM) transmitter is experimentally evaluated. Bit error rate (BER) performance is obtained via real-time data transmission. It is shown that Fourier Rotman DM functionality enhances system security performance in terms of narrower decodable low BER region and higher BER values associated with BER sidelobes especially under high signal to noise ratio (SNR) scenarios. This enhancement is achieved by controlled corruption of constellation diagrams in IQ space by orthogonal injection of interference. Furthermore, the paper gives the first report of a functional dual-beam DM transmitter, which has the capability of simultaneously projecting two independent data streams into two different spatial directions while simultaneously scrambling the information signals along all other directions.
The deep 3.4 μm interstellar absorption feature toward the IRAS 18511+0146 cluster

Context. An absorption feature at 3.4 μm, widely observed in the diffuse interstellar medium (ISM), is produced by aliphatic hydrocarbon dust. In the local ISM there is in general a linear correlation between the 3.4 μm optical depth and the visual extinction AV . However, the 3.4 μm optical depth toward the young stellar object IRAS 18511+0146, the highest found in the local diffuse ISM apart from the Galactic centre lines of sight, is three times higher than predicted from the most likely value for the distance of the object, the extinction-distance relation for the Galactic diffuse ISM, and the value of AV /τ3.4 in the Galactic disk. Aims. IRAS 18511+0146 is associated with a small cluster of stars. We have obtained spectra of it as well as two other cluster members in order to verify the unusually high 3.4 μm optical depth toward IRAS 18511+0146 and test for patchiness in the foreground diffuse cloud material. Methods. Spectra covering 2.9–4.1 μm were recorded using the near-infrared imager/spectrograph (NIRI) at the Gemini North telescope. Results. After subtraction of the superimposed 3.47 μm band, produced in dense interstellar gas associated with the cluster, we have determined optical depths of 0.06–0.08 for the 3.4 μm absorption on the three lines of sight. We discuss the distance and extinction to the IRAS 18511+0146 cluster and possible interpretations of the high optical depth of the 3.4 μm absorption. Conclusions. The most probable distance to the IRAS 18511+0146 cluster is 3.9 kpc. Two different interpretations of the high observed τ3.4 are then possible. (i) The AV to distance ratio toward the cluster is approximately the one observed on average in the Galactic diffuse ISM, in which case AV ∼ 7a ndτ3.4 in this direction is three times higher than predicted by the usual AV /τ3.4 observed in local diffuse ISM. (ii) The visual extinction in the direction of the IRAS 18511+0146 cluster is higher (i.e. 15–20 mag), probably due to a diffuse cloud associated with the cluster, resulting in a high value of τ3.4. In either case, the high τ3.4 makes this cluster a unique and valuable line of sight for studying the Galactic hydrocarbon dust.
Next generation of Eurocode 8

This paper describes the procedure on the evaluation of the masonry chapter for the next generation of Eurocode 8, the European Standard for earthquake-resistant design. In CEN, TC 250/SC8, working group WG 1 has been established to support the subcommittee on the topic of masonry on both design of new structures (EN1998-1) and assessment of existing structures (EN1998-3). The aim is to elaborate suggestions for amendments which fit the current state of the art in masonry and earthquake-resistant design. Focus will be on modelling, simplified methods, linear-analysis (q-values, overstrength-values), nonlinear procedures, out-of-plane design as well as on clearer definition of limit states. Beside these, topics related to general material properties, reinforced masonry, confined masonry, mixed structures and non-structural infills will be covered too. This paper presents the preliminary work and results up to the submission date. 1 GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS
Bòsò Walikan Malang’s Address Practices

Address practices in natural conversations are sociolinguistically significant, because they display speakers’ socio-cultural values as well as the community’s social structure and social change. Focusing on Boso Walikan Malang [1] (/bɔsɔ waliʔan malaŋan/, hereafter referred to as Walikan), a youth language spoken in Malang, this paper examines how address terms and politeness are practiced in a multilingual setting. Walikan is a colloquial variety of local Javanese and Indonesian that features word reversing ( mlaku > uklam ‘to walk’; makan > nakam ‘to eat’). The youth language was specifically chosen as the focus of this study because it is an important symbol of the socio-cultural identity of the Arema ( Arek Malang ; the people of Malang). Looking at the underexplored topic of speech levels in youth language, the current research discusses the value of Walikan’s address terms and how they are currently used to demonstrate the speakers’ linguistic politeness. The analysis compares Walikan’s address terms with those of Javanese and Indonesian, two dominant languages spoken in the area. Data for the current study were drawn from recordings, interviews, and observations conducted in an extensive fieldwork. The results of this study reveal a speakers’ shift of value that is mainly prompted by a compromised common ground and social distance. The study argues that address practices in Walikan show different degree of politeness than that of Javanese and Indonesian. [1] In this paper, certain vowels are indicated by specific graphemes, as follows: /e/ by , /ə/ by , /o/ by , /ɛ/ by , and /ɔ/by . DOI: http://doi.org/10.17576/gema-2017-1701-07
A Novel ±0.5V Ultra High Current Drive and Output Voltage Headroom Current Output Stage with Very High Output Impedance

A novel ultra-high compliance, low power, very accurate and high output impedance current output stage (COS) with extremely high output current drive capability is proposed in this paper. The principle of operation of this unique structure is discussed, its most important formulas are derived and its outstanding performance is verified by HSPICE simulation in TSMC 0. 18µm CMOS, BSIM3, and Level49 technology. This deliberately composed structure utilizes a well combination (for a mutual auto control action) of negative and positive feedbacks to achieve ever demanded merits such as very low power of 150µW, ultra high ratio of 3000 for output current over the bias current (which is selected to be 0.5µA) at low THD of 20dB and very high output impedance of 5GΩ with power supplies of ±0.5V when operating at class AB mode. Simulation results with ±0.5V power supply shows an absolute output voltage dynamic range of 0.9V which interestingly provides the highest yet reported output voltage compliance for Current mode building blocks implemented by regular CMOS technology. Full process, voltage, and temperature variation (PVT) analysis of the circuit is also investigated in order to approve the well robustness of the structure. The transient stepwise response is also done to verify the proposed COS stability.
Meat Demand Analysis: A Case Study of Akungba-Akoko Township in Ondo State

This study examined the preference for and consumption pattern of meat types by individual households - Specifically, the study investigated the extent to which household income, household size and other socio-economic factors predicted monthly expenditure on meat. Three Hundred household heads were selected from the area using the simple random sampling technique. Results indicated that beef was the most preferred meat (60.14%), followed by chicken (29.72%) and turkey (26.92%). The proportion of household’s total expenditure on meat was high for low income households (on average 18%) while on average of 9% for middle/high income households. The percentage of household food expenditure expended on meat was high for both low income households and high income households relative to middle income households. The most important factor considered by households while purchasing meat was the taste and habits, followed by nutritional value and prices. Other factors observed were freshness, tenderness and religious sentiments.
Systematic Review of Smart Grid Analytics

Smart grids will require real-time reaction and make distribution decision very fast in order to cover unexpected demand peaks and renewable generation peaks. A smart grid should require little consumer participation. Traditionally large imbalance is the ratio of electricity consumption and electricity generation results in wasting of large quantities of electricity generated in states where generation exceeds consumption significantly. The difference between the generation and consumption is the result of system loss, uncounted loads, and lack of centralized control. The amount of available storage capacity could be not enough in order to record all the digital information generated in the world and this could turn into main triggers for a paradigm shift to Smart Grid. This systematic review focuses on electricity data analytics technologies used in previous studies. The existing work is classified into different categories. Furthermore, the paper highlights the challenges arising due to the advent of big data.
Performance comparison of active and semi-active SMC and LQR regulators in a quarter-car model

In this paper, an analysis is performed on a quarter-car model of car suspension with semi-active and active damper utilizing the sliding mode (SMC) and linear-quadratic control (LQR). The effect of control parameters and time delays in the transmission of control signal on the factors related to the safety and comfort of driving is investigated. The results obtained from numerical simulations are shown in form of frequency characteristics for several selected performance factors.
Forest Succession and Harvesting of Hemipteran Honeydew by Boreal Ants

Ants are important harvesters of plant-derived sugars, but little is known about how anthropogenic disturbances influence this behaviour. We investigated factors related to honeydew harvesting by red wood ants, Formica aquilonia, in managed boreal forests. Ant activity was lowest in middle-age stands (30–40 years old), which had the fewest and smallest ant mounds. It was best predicted by a model containing an interaction among tree species, basal diameter and stand age. Individual workers collected similar masses of honeydew from the different aged stands, which suggests that colonies optimise foraging efforts by adjusting the number of active foragers to match resource availability. The rate of honeydew harvesting from recently clear-cut stands during the survey was similar to that in old stands, although significantly faster than in middle-aged stands. This may be a result of high aphid loads on clear-cuts and recent changes in forest management that improve the temporal continuity of forests for red wood ants. Anthropogenic alteration of habitats thus significantly alters energy use by ants, mainly as a result of changes in the abundance and size of ant colonies. This change is likely to have further consequences for ant-driven ecosystem functions.
An Evaluation Of A Multigrid Algorithm Error Spike Correction Method

This study is an evaluation of a method of improving the multigrid process by cor recting error spikes which are generated when moving from a coarser to finer level. The correction method was tested on nine one-dimensional problems governed by second order differential equations. Tests were performed with an accomodative, full approximation scheme, full multi-grid algorithm. Results indicate that appropriate implementation of the correction can increase so lution accuracy. Accuracy was increased in 75% of cases in which a single correction was applied to a point in the central portion of the grid. Single corrections performed on points with error greater than the average error were effective 86% of the time. Further study is required to determine a method of identifying this scenario.
Testing the Unconfoundedness Assumption via Inverse Probability Weighted Estimators of (L)ATT

We propose inverse probability weighted estimators for the local average treatment effect (LATE) and the local average treatment effect for the treated (LATT) under instrumental variable assumptions with covariates. We show that these estimators are asymptotically normal and efficient. When the (binary) instrument satisfies one-sided noncompliance, we propose a Durbin–Wu–Hausman-type test of whether treatment assignment is unconfounded conditional on some observables. The test is based on the fact that under one-sided noncompliance LATT coincides with the average treatment effect for the treated (ATT). We conduct Monte Carlo simulations to demonstrate, among other things, that part of the theoretical efficiency gain afforded by unconfoundedness in estimating ATT survives pretesting. We illustrate the implementation of the test on data from training programs administered under the Job Training Partnership Act in the United States. This article has online supplementary material.
A non-planar organic molecule with non-volatile electrical bistability for nano-scale data storage

A new non-planar organic molecule with electron donor and acceptor capabilities was synthesized for nano-scale data storage. Macroscopic I–V characteristics of organic crystalline thin films indicate that the non-planar molecule possesses good electrical bistability. Nano-scale recording dots with an average diameter of 2.5 nm were realized by scanning tunneling microscopy.
Transformational Leadership and the Corporate Entrepreneurial Spirit

Introduction: Transformational leadership is hailed by many academics as a way of improving human capital and increasing productivity. In the same way, corporate entrepreneurial spirit is seen as a road to innovation and transformation. Productivity, innovation and transformation are often cited as drivers of development, which could be important in promoting such activities in Africa. Objectives: To determine the extent to which an environment where transformational leadership is practised coincides with an environment that is conducive to the practice of corporate entrepreneurship. Method: Data was collected from 868 employees from 17 Southern African organisations. The respondents were asked to complete a series of questionnaires, including one on transformational leadership and one on corporate entrepreneurship. Informed consent was obtained before the questionnaires were administered. As well as descriptive statistics, correlations were also calculated. Results: The reliability coefficients measured were acceptable (transformational leadership, alpha = .870; corporate entrepreneurship, alpha = .810). The results indicate that transformational leadership correlates significantly (p < .001) with the elements of entrepreneurship. The strongest correlations were with the domains of Rewards/Reinforcement (r = .523) and Management Support (r = .405), while the weakest were with Time Availability (r = .107) and Work Discretion (r = .233). Conclusions: Although an environment in which transformational leadership is practised coincides with important elements conducive to the practice of entrepreneurship, transformational leadership does not facilitate all these processes. Transformational leadership may thus be important, but it is not sufficient for the development of entrepreneurial spirit. Methods of boosting corporate entrepreneurial spirit are suggested for transformational leaders.
Effects of root restriction on the ultrastructure of phloem in grape leaves

In this study, the ultrastructure of phloem and its surrounding parenchyma cells in grape leaves from plants subjected to root restriction or without (control) was systematically investigated for the first time through transmission electron microscopy. The results show that the sieve element (SE) and companion cells (CC) in the main veins of leaves subjected to root restriction were smaller in size than those in the control leaves. The number of plasmodesmata between CC and SE in leaves subjected to root restriction was greater than in the control leaves, but the number of plasmodesmata between phloem parenchyma cells (PP) in leaves subjected to root restriction was less than in the control leaves. Also, the average diameters of SE and CC in the branch veins were smaller in leaves subjected to root restriction than in the control leaves, but their cell walls were thicker and the number of plasmodesmata between PP was less. In the minor veins, the SE and CC were smaller in leaves subjected to root restriction than in the control leaves, and the number of plasmodesmata between CC and SE, SE and PP, and CC and PP were greater. Moreover, less intercellular space among PP cells was observed in minor veins of leaves subjected to root restriction, which was in contrast to the main veins where more intercellular space among PP cells was observed in the leaves subjected to root restriction compared to control leaves. These results therefore demonstrated that changes in the ultrastructure of the phloem of grape leaves are a result of adaptation to the stress of root restriction. Key words : Root restriction, leaf, phloem, ultrastructure.