Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Interbank Lending and Systemic Risk: An Empirical Analysis for Switzerland

Systemic risk in banking has gained renewed prominence in the literature in recent years. To date, empirical studies aimed at assessing the quantitative importance of systemic risk have analyzed the outcomes of historical banking crises. This paper takes a new tack by attempting to assess the level of systemic risk currently in a banking system on the basis of interbank loan structures. We construct a matrix of interbank loans for Switzerland based on known marginal loan distributions and the principle of entropy maximization. Our results suggest that the latent systemic risk associated with the interbank loan structure existing among Swiss banks in 1987-95 posed little threat to the stability of the Swiss banking system.
A Systematic Literature Review of Information Systems Auditing in Developing Countries

Problem; with its main focus on ensuring the security, reliability, integrity, and privacy of the information, the Information Systems Auditing plays a critical role in the health of any organization from the developing countries. The recent business failures increased the interest of researchers on the topic of information systems auditing. While some research exists, it focuses on particular cases from the developing countries. Yet the academia lacks a comprehensive overview of the information systems auditing in the context of developing countries. Research question; in this light, the perceived gap in the existing literature raised the following research question: What are the current difficulties, issues and challenges which are experienced by the developing countries in terms of Information Systems Auditing? Method; to facilitate answering the research question, the systematic literature review for information systems research was undertaken in conjunction with the grounded theory-based rigorous approach to systematic reviews. Result; the review analyzed a number of 23 articles spread over a period of ten year and selected from six literature databases. By using the means of grounded theory, a number of six main categories related to challenges, difficulties and issues were identified. Conclusion; this comprehensive literature review shows that the developing countries are facing various challenges, difficulties and issues with regards to Information Systems Audit, ranging from legislation, policies and standards to education and cultural aspects. Originality and Significance; this study fills the gap in the body of knowledge related to Information Systems Audit in developing countries. Based on the outcomes, this thesis suggests a number of potential research directions which were found as not being previously researched.
Digital Image Steganography

Various applications have various prerequisites of the steganography strategy utilized. As an example, a couple of applications may require outright imperceptibility of the restricted data, while others require a much bigger mystery message to be covered up. During this venture named “Image Steganography”, we’ve zeroed in on least huge piece change methods of spatial area. We’ve broke down and analyzed the variations of this calculation regarding viability and concealing limit. Adequacy of the calculation is estimated by client assessments deciding so, all things considered modification to the photographs got evident.
Numerical Simulation of Cross-Flow Vortex-Induced Vibration of Hexagonal Cylinders with Face and Corner Orientations at Low Reynolds Number

Vortex-induced vibrations (VIV) of hexagonal cylinders at Reynolds number of 1000 and mass ratio of 2 are studied numerically. In the numerical model, the Navier–Stokes equations are solved using finite volume method, and the fluid-structure interaction (FSI) is modelled using Arbitrary Lagrangian Eulerian (ALE) Scheme. The numerical model accounts for the cross-flow vibration of the cylinders, and is validated against published experimental and numerical results. In order to account for different angles of attack, the hexagonal cylinders are studied in the corner and face orientations. The results are compared with the published results of circular and square cylinders. Current results show that within the studied range of reduced velocities (up to 20), unlike circular and square cylinders, no lock-in response is observed in the hexagonal cylinders. The maximum normalized VIV amplitudes of the hexagonal cylinders are 0.45, and are significantly lower than those of circular and square cylinders. Vortex shedding regimes of the corner-oriented hexagons are mostly irregular. However, in the face-oriented hexagons, the shedding modes are more similar to the typical P + S and 2P modes.
Microfluidics to define leukocyte migration patterns

Leukocyte migration into tissues is characteristic of inflammation. In this thesis, we design and validate microfluidic devices that allow for precise quantification of leukocyte migration patterns. Our microfluidic platform can quantify migration patterns using single-cell quantitative metrics that include the percentage of cells migrating, their directionality, persistence and migratory speed. We used these microfluidic platforms to perform mechanistic studies on bi-directional migration and also to screen for anti-inflammatory mediators. We also studied the effects of the neuronal guidance cue Netrin-1 on CD4+ T cell migration and validated our in vitro findings using a humanized SCID mouse model. We found that Netrin-1 augmented leukocyte infiltration and skin inflammation and that its effects were functionally associated with the expression of the promigratory Netrin-1 receptor neogenin on lymphoctyes. We used a maze device to study migration signatures of both T cells and neutrophils and identified two dominant migratory patterns which we called exploratory migration patterns and highly directional end-target directed responses. Finally, we explored novel mechanisms by which leukocytes can cause tissue damage through the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). We found that NETs perturb blood flow in microcapillaries-on-a-chip, despite the presence of anti-coagulants and show that the impedance of blood flow can be reversed within seconds using DNase. The work presented in this thesis shows that microfluidic devices have significant potential to be adapted as tissue-chips that mimic the tissue microenvironment. Chip design can be used to study therapeutic interventions in a wide variety of diseases and clinical conditions.
Measurement of material volumes in a cylindrical silo using acoustic wave and resonance frequency analysis

This work presents an approach for measuring material volumes in a closed cylindrical silo by using acoustic waves and resonance frequency analysis of silo’s acoustic systems. With an assumption that the acoustical systems were linear and time-invariant, frequency responses of the systems were identified via measurement. A sine sweep was generated, amplified and fed to a loudspeaker inside the silo. Acoustic waves were picked up by a microphone and processed to yield the silo's frequency response. Resonance frequencies and wave mode numbers of standing waves in the frequency range below 900 Hz were analyzed and used for calculation of air-cavity lengths. With known silo's dimension, the material volume estimations were achieved. Sets of experiments for estimating volumes of sand, cement, water, rice grain, and stone flakes in a closed silo, were done. It was found that the approach could successfully estimate the volumes of sand, cement, and water with a satisfactory accuracy. Percent errors of the estimations were less than 3% from the actual volumes. However, the approach could not estimate the volume of rice grain and stone flakes, since their sound refractions were neither resulted in standing waves nor acoustical modes in the silo.
Relationship between the Pre and Post Evidence-based Education and Training (EBET) Interventions Provided to Direct Care Nursing Staff with Hospital Acquired Pressure Injuries (HAPI) Prevalence Rates

This is a quality improvement study to analyze the relationship between the pre and post evidence-based education and training (EBET) interventions provided to direct care nursing staff and hospital acquired pressure injury (HAPI) prevalence rates. The Iowa Model of evidence-based practice provides the framework for this study. The Iowa Model of evidence-based practice focuses on organizational collaboration of the team to outline the knowledge transformation and execute the research into clinical evidence-based practice [5]. Training sessions were conducted from October 2018 to April 2019 for direct care nursing staff to identify the risk factors, prevention and management strategies for HAPI. This study used the HAPI prevalence rate data of 20 adult inpatient units and four pediatric inpatient units from July and September 2018 (pre-intervention) and May and June 2019 (post-intervention). Prevalence rate data was retrieved from the National Database for Nursing Quality Indicators (NDNQI) program. There was a significant decrease in the HAPI rates in 2019 for adult -0.89, pediatric -0.44 and overall hospital total -0.77 as compared to 2018.
The Afterglow and Environment of the Short Grb 111117a

We present multi-wavelength observations of the afterglow of the short GRB 111117A, and follow-up observations of its host galaxy. From rapid optical and radio observations we place limits of r & 25 . 5 mag at δ t ≈ 0 . 55 d and F ν (5 . 8GHz) . 18 µ Jy at δ t ≈ 0 . 50 d, respectively. However, using a Chandra observation at δ t ≈ 3 . 0 d we locate the absolute position of the X-ray afterglow to an accuracy of 0 . 22 ′′ (1 σ ), a factor of about 6 times better than the Swift /XRT position. This allows us to robustly identify the host galaxy and to locate the burst at a projected offset of 1 . 25 ± 0 . 20 ′′ from the host centroid. Using optical and near-IR observations of the host galaxy we determine a photometric redshift of z = 1 . 3 + 0 . 3 - 0 . 2 , one of the highest for any short GRB, and leading to a projected physical offset for the burst of 10 . 5 ± 1 . 7 kpc, typical of previous short GRBs. At this redshift, the isotropic γ -ray energy is E γ , iso ≈ 3 . 0 × 10 51 erg (rest-frame 23 - 2300 keV) with a peak energy of E pk ≈ 850 - 2300 keV (rest-frame). In conjunction with the isotropic X-ray energy, GRB 111117A appears to follow our recently-reported E x , iso - E γ , iso - E pk universal scaling. Using the X-ray data along with the optical and radio non-detections we ﬁnd that for a blastwave kinetic energy of E K , iso ≈ E γ , iso erg, the circumburst density is n 0 ≈ 3 × 10 - 4 - 1 cm - 3 (for a range of ǫ B = 0 . 001 - 0 . 1). Similarly, from the non-detection of a break in the X-ray light curve at δ t . 3 d, we infer a minimum opening angle for the outﬂow of θ j & 3 - 10 ◦ (depending on the circumburst density). We conclude that Chandra observations of short GRBs are effective at determining precise positions and robust host galaxy associations in the absence of optical and radio detections.
L-polar decomposition of the Lorentz group O ( 1 , n )

Let n ≥ 2, and let L = diag(1,−1, In−1) be a diagonal matrix. Let ρ be an involution of the Lorentz group O(1, n) defined by ρ(A) = LAL, A ∈ O(1, n). We show A = ek where k ∈ O(1, n) and X is in the Lie algebra of O(1, n) satisfying ρ(k) = k and LXL = −X. We briefly apply the above analysis to other involutions of O(1, n).
POWER SYSTEM STABILIZATION BY A DOUBLE-FED INDUCTION MACHINE WITH A FLYWHEEL ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM

This paper proposed a new idea of using a large-mass varying-speed flywheel as an energy storage element to form a novel FACTS device called multi-functional Flexible Power Conditioner (FPC). The novel device consists of a double-fed induction machine (DFIM) and a voltage-source pulse width modulation (PWM) rectifier-inverter used as an AC exciter. By changing the speed of the rotating machine, the kinetic energy stored in the rotor with the flywheel will be changed. With an appropriate control strategy, it is able to realize an independent active and reactive power exchanging between the FPC and the grid. Similar to that of the Superconducting Magnetic Energy Storage (SMES), the FPC can be used to improve the stability of power system as well as the quality of power supply. Additional advantage of the FPC over the SMES based device is that it is easy to develop and to operate. Therefore, the cost will be greatly reduced. In order to increase performance of the proposed device, an improved stator flux linkage orientated control strategy for FPC is proposed in the paper. Simulation result of applying the proposed device in a two-machine and an infinite bus system shows that the proposed control provides excellent dynamic characteristics. Very encouraging results are obtained.
Tweeting Outside the Lines: Normalization and Fragmentation as Political Reporters Break from the Mainstream

ABSTRACT The field of journalism is experiencing intense diversification in form and message while trying to overcome widespread public disaffection by reinforcing professional norms. This study focuses on two forces—normalization and fragmentation—by observing them at work on social media. We analyzed content and interactions from mainstream and non-mainstream political journalists covering a 2016 U.S. presidential debate. Forces of normalization would draw these two groups of reporters together in a monolithic, widespread practice, perhaps including both newer and older methods. Forces of fragmentation, on the other hand, would drive groups of practitioners further apart, with clearer lines separating mainstream journalism from its offshoots. The key question is where these similarities and differences between mainstream and non-mainstream journalists arise. Findings suggest divergence in objectivity and gatekeeping, and convergence in campaign coverage practices. The evidence suggests that, on Twitter, mainstream reporters insulate themselves by interacting mainly with other journalists, while non-mainstream journalists offer openly partisan interpretations and seek out audience participation and engagement, often from people sharing their viewpoints.
Electrochemical Oxidation of VT6 Titanium Alloy in Oxalic Acid Solutions

1 The influence of the electrolysis parameters on the process of VT6 titanium alloy oxidizing in oxalic acid solutions is presented. It is shown that the nature of cell voltage-time curves for the alloy samples depends on the current density used. The interference-colored oxide films are formed on the surface of the alloy at the anodic current density above 0.5 A ∙ dm -2 . The maximal thickness and the oxide film color are determined by the cell voltage and do not depend on other electrolysis parameters. The results of oxidation in oxalic and sulfuric acids solutions made it possible to establish the similarity of cell voltage-time dependencies and the time of oxide film formation with maximal thickness for these electrolysis conditions.
Approximating CSPs with Global Cardinality Constraints Using SDP Hierarchies

This work reviews an approach for rounding constraint satisfaction problem (CSP) instances under cardinality constraints which is developed by Raghavendra and Tan [1]. In the CSP problems, we are given a set of variables over a fixed finite discrete domain and the goal is to find an assignment for these variables to satisfy a set of given local constraints. A constraint is local in the sense that its satisfaction only depends on a constant number of variables1. The goal is to satisfy the most possible number of constraints. It turns out that adding a single non-local (global) cardinality constraint on the variables makes the problem much harder. In this case, the goal is still the same as before, but we want to maintain the added global constraint at the same time. The idea of this paper is to find a set of “uncorrelated” vectors using higher order sum of squares (SOS) hierarchy. While all the presented results in this note can be applied to general CSPs, we only focus on the particular MAX BISECTION instance.
Pathways to Coastal Resiliency: The Adaptive Gradients Framework

Current and future climate-related coastal impacts such as catastrophic and repetitive flooding, hurricane intensity, and sea level rise necessitate a new approach to developing and managing coastal infrastructure. Traditional “hard” or “grey” engineering solutions are proving both expensive and inflexible in the face of a rapidly changing coastal environment. Hybrid solutions that incorporate natural, nature-based, structural, and non-structural features may better achieve a broad set of goals such as ecological enhancement, long-term adaptation, and social benefits, but broad consideration and uptake of these approaches has been slow. One barrier to the widespread implementation of hybrid solutions is the lack of a relatively quick but holistic evaluation framework that places these broader environmental and societal goals on equal footing with the more traditional goal of exposure reduction. To respond to this need, the Adaptive Gradients Framework was developed and pilot-tested as a qualitative, flexible, and collaborative process guide for organizations to understand, evaluate, and potentially select more diverse kinds of infrastructural responses. These responses would ideally include natural, nature-based, and regulatory/cultural approaches, as well as hybrid designs combining multiple approaches. It enables rapid expert review of project designs based on eight metrics called “gradients”, which include exposure reduction, cost efficiency, institutional capacity, ecological enhancement, adaptation over time, greenhouse gas reduction, participatory process, and social benefits. The framework was conceptualized and developed in three phases: relevant factors and barriers were collected from practitioners and experts by survey; these factors were ranked by importance and used to develop the initial framework; several case studies were iteratively evaluated using this technique; and the framework was finalized for implementation. The article presents the framework and a pilot test of its application, along with resources that would enable wider application of the framework by practitioners and theorists.
Study on the essential amino acid’s supplements with absorption patterns in the improvement of the performance for sportspeople: GFS AMINO

Sports-people’s performance at their sport can vary due to the development of their athletic activity when competing. In addition to this, the scientific community have recently increased their interest for the study of essential amino acid’s supplements (EA). The purpose of the present study is to examine the effect of the ingestion of an amino acid’s supplement with absorption patterns and its relationship with the performance of 32 sportsmen in a maximum stress test of their VO2max. For this study we used a double-blind design. Thirty-two experienced sportsmen, (aged 34 ± 6.5 and; height 178.5 ± 4.5 cm; weight 72.6 ± 8.6 kg), were evaluated during their performance. All of them followed an ingestion protocol of an amino acid supplement with absorption patterns (16.6gr) of GFS AMINOS dissolved in 140ml of water, 20 minutes before starting the test and a later execution consisting in an increasing-stress test, until they stopped voluntarily. At the end of the test we carried out a measuring of their Body Mass Index (BMI), a blood-lactate, a lower body strength test and a cognitive test. The results of this study showed significant differences (P < 0.05) in the performance over time and duration in the stress test, together with a lower loss of cognitive attention and a decreasing of the fat percentage. In sum, this essential amino acid supplement with absorption patterns GFS AMINOS can improve sports-people’s performance and accelerate the use of body fat.
SEMANTIC PROCESS MODELS

In today’s fast changing public sector environment, administrative decision makers increasingly demand that information and communication technology (ICT) investments demonstrate business value through measurable results. While costs are easy to track, measuring tangible benefits such as quality improvements and utility potentials of ICT takes considerable effort. Hence, simultaneously with a multitude of eGovernment initiatives, ICT evaluation methods have been developed. As the great part of these initiatives exclusively focuses on the electronic delivery of governmental services, predominantly the end-user perspective is used for evaluation thus leaving behind the impact of ICT on the back-office of a public administration. For this reason a fundamental methodology for administration-wide ICT impact analysis is presented. This methodology consists of two phases: semantic modelling of administrational processes (phase 1) and computer-assisted analysis of ICT impact (phase 2). For both phases, the respective specifications are explained and their applicability is demonstrated with a real-world example.
Power Management in Multiuser Adaptive Modulation Transmission under QoS Requirements

A transmitter power management mechanism is presented in this paper where Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) Multiuser Random Beamforming with Adaptive Modulation strategy is performed by the system. The objective of the proposed mechanism is quality of service (QoS) satisfaction for the scheduled user. The QoS is represented by the application demanded data rate and symbol error rate. The power outage problem is considered and a practical method to minimize the outage probability is proposed. The obtained results are encouraging as they show a great decrease in the system power budget. The multiuser system capability is also exploited to achieve larger power saving values and smaller probability of power outage by scheduling the user with the best channel characteristics at each time instant. The amount of saved power and the power outage probability are both presented through closed-form expressions. These theoretical results are compared to computer simulations, which show very good agreement in performance.
A FEYNMAN-KAC-TYPE FORMULA FOR THE DETERMINISTIC AND STOCHASTIC WAVE EQUATIONS AND OTHER

We establish a probabilistic representation for a wide class of linear deterministic p.d. e. ’s with potential term, including the wave equation in spatial dimensions 1 to 3. Our representation applies to the heat equation, where it is related to the classical Feynman-Kac formula, as well as to the telegraph and beam equations. If the potential is a (random) spatially homogeneous Gaussian noise, then this formula leads to an expression for the moments of the solution.
Is There Water Ice in the Lunar Polar Craters?

This literature review found that it is doubtful that there is water ice in the polar craters on the Moon. In the course of this review, the following findings were found: (1) The absorption strength of hydroxyl radicals and hydroxyl groups are all 2. 9μm, so it is easy to confuse hydroxyl radicals and hydroxyl groups when interpreting M3 spectra data. I do not doubt the ability of LCROSS to detect OH from water, but only suspect that LCROSS is unable to distinguish between hydroxyl radicals from water ice and hydroxyl groups from Moon's methanol due to ignore their spectral identity; (2) The water brought by comets and asteroids and the one caused by solar wind has been exhausted by reacts with the widespread methanol on the Moon in the presence of Pt/α-MoC or Pt/C catalysts. These reacts form large amount of hydrogen, thus clarifying a question NASA raised that "Scientists have long speculated about the source of vast quantities of hydrogen that have been observed at the lunar poles"; (3) The vast quantities of hydrogen in lunar polar craters at extremely low temperatures might be in liquid or solid state now, easy to confuse with water ice. It seems that all our previous misconceptions about water ice in the lunar polar craters might be due to the neglect of the widespread chemical role of lunar methanol. It is necessary to conduct in-depth research in this field in the future.