Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The ExoTETHyS Package: Tools for Exoplanetary Transits around Host Stars

We present here the first release of the open-source python package ExoTETHyS (stable: https://zenodo.org/badge/latestdoi/169268509, development version: https://github.com/ucl-exoplanets/ExoTETHyS/), which aims to provide a stand-alone set of tools for modeling spectrophotometric observations of transiting exoplanets. In particular, we describe: (1) a new calculator of stellar limb-darkening coefficients that outperforms the existing software by one order of magnitude in terms of light-curve model accuracy, i.e., down to <10 parts per million, and (2) an exact transit light-curve generator based on the entire stellar intensity profile rather than limb-darkening coefficients. New tools will be added in later releases to model various effects in exoplanetary transits and eclipsing binaries. ExoTETHyS is a reference package for high-precision exoplanet atmospheric spectroscopy with the upcoming James Webb Space Telescope and Atmospheric Remote-sensing Infrared Exoplanet Large-survey missions.
Ecological research in the Large Scale Biosphere Atmosphere Experiment in Amazonia : A discussion of early results

The Large-scale Biosphere–Atmosphere Experiment in Amazonia (LBA) is a multinational, interdisciplinary research program led by Brazil. Ecological studies in LBA focus on how tropical forest conversion, regrowth, and selective logging influence carbon storage, nutrient dynamics, trace gas fluxes, and the prospect for sustainable land use in the Amazon region. Early results from ecological studies within LBA emphasize the variability within the vast Amazon region and the profound effects that land-use and landcover changes are having on that landscape. The predominant land cover of the Amazon region is evergreen forest; nonetheless, LBA studies have observed strong seasonal patterns in gross primary production, ecosystem respiration, and net ecosystem exchange, as well as phenology and tree growth. The seasonal patterns vary spatially and interannually and evidence suggests that these patterns are driven not only by variations in weather but also by innate biological rhythms of the forest species. Rapid rates of deforestation have marked the forests of the Amazon region over the past three decades. Evidence from ground-based surveys and remote sensing show that substantial areas of forest are being degraded by logging activities and through the collapse of forest edges. Because forest edges and logged forests are susceptible to fire, positive feedback cycles of forest degradation may be initiated by land-use-change events. LBA studies indicate that cleared lands in the Amazon, once released from cultivation or pasture usage, regenerate biomass rapidly. However, the pace of biomass accumulation is dependent upon past land use and the depletion of nutrients by unsustainable land-management practices. The challenge for ongoing research within LBA is to integrate the recognition of diverse patterns and processes into general models for prediction of regional ecosystem function.
Micropropagation of Ficus carica L. through Tissue Culture System

Ficus spp. is one of Moraceae family which natively to Westerns Asia and distributed worldwide and economically important. The richness of nutrients and latex cells make this plant possessed many pharmacological effects which is importantly to medicinal and drugs industries. The demand for this plant is very high despite the production of fig is very inconsistent from year to year. So, this study have determined the highest shoot regeneration recorded when the stem explant was cultured in MS medium supplemented with 1.0 mg/L of BAP + 0.0 g/L NAA with 2.57±0.997. For callus induction, the highest fresh weight in stem explant was 2.28±0.239 obtained when cultured in MS medium supplemented with 0.5 mg/L BAP + 1.0 mg/L NAA, shoot explant was 1.0 mg/L BAP + 0.5 mg/L NAA with fresh weight 2.39±0.134 g, petiole explant was 1.42±0.230 g in MS medium supplemented with 0.5 mg/L BAP + 1.0 mg/L NAA and root explant was was 1.43±0.148 g when explant was cultured on 1.0 mg/L BAP + 1.0 mg/L NAA.
Learning Image Processing with OpenCV

Exploit the amazing features of OpenCV to create powerful image processing applications through easy-to-follow examples About This BookLearn how to build full-fledged image processing applications using free tools and librariesTake advantage of cutting-edge image processing functionalities included in OpenCV v3Understand and optimize various features of OpenCV with the help of easy-to-grasp examplesWho This Book Is ForIf you are a competent C++ programmer and want to learn the tricks of image processing with OpenCV, then this book is for you. A basic understanding of image processing is required. In Detail OpenCV, arguably the most widely used computer vision library, includes hundreds of ready-to-use imaging and vision functions and is used in both academia and enterprises.This book provides an example-based tour of OpenCV's main image processing algorithms. Starting with an exploration of library installation, wherein the library structure and basics of image and video reading/writing are covered, you will dive into image filtering and the color manipulation features of OpenCV with LUTs. You'll then be introduced to techniques such as inpainting and denoising to enhance images as well as the process of HDR imaging. Finally, you'll master GPU-based accelerations. By the end of this book, you will be able to create smart and powerful image processing applications with ease! All the topics are described with short, easy-to-follow examples.
A 12 B 4 C 3 , an inhibitor of polynucleotide kinase / phosphatase enhances radio-sensitivity in PC-3 cells exposed to carbon ion beam

Cancer recurrence is a major problem of current radiotherapies like gamma radiation or High LET (Linear Energy Transfer) radiation. This problem can be overcome by the use of radiomodulator which will enhance cell killing and ⁄ or prevent cell regeneration after the treatment. Polynucleotide kinase / phosphatase (PNKP) plays an important role in DNA repair pathway. Accordingly, its inhibition can hamper the DNA damage repair processes and ultimately can suppress the recurrence of cancer. In this context, we have reported that following 24 hr 12Carbon ion beam combined with PNKPi (PNKP inhibitor) as radio-modulator enhanced the radio-sensitivity. Present study will elucidate the effect after 48 hr of 12Carbon ion beam in combination with PNKPi. We have checked the PC-3 cell viability through MTT assay, cell death mode by DAPI staining and cell cycle analysis through flow cytometry after 48 hr of irradiation (12Carbon ion beam having energy 62 MeV; equivalent to 5.16 MeV/nucleon with entrance LET 287 kev/μm) and in combination with PNKPi as radiomodulator. It was observed that PC-3 cell viability decreased following apoptosis when carbon ion beam was combined with PNKPi. Further, the cell cycle arrest was enhanced at S phase in combined treatment group compared to only irradiated cells. These findings suggest that, after 48 hr of carbon ion irradiation PNKP inhibition could enhance cellular radiosensitivity in prostate cancer cell line PC-3 by suppressing DNA damage repair pathway. The synergistic effect of PNKPi and carbon ion irradiation may be a promising method to avoid recurrence of cancerous cells following High LET carbon-ion radiation therapy.
ROBUST SHAPE SENSING FOR FLEXIBLE MEDICAL INSTRUMENTS

Medical procedures that utilize flexible instruments such as catheters, require the spatial information of the instrument in order to navigate to the procedure site. In current practice, this information is acquired using imaging modalities such as ultrasound or fluoroscopy. However, there are certain drawbacks; the instrument can be invisible in ultrasound and fluoroscopy exposes the patient to harmful radiation. These drawbacks can potentially be mitigated by utilizing optical sensors for spatial information. Shape reconstruction with a single fiber containing FBG sensors has been demonstrated to be accurate within a couple of millimeters. In this study, we show that robust and accurate sensing can be achieved by utilizing redundant number of fibers. The advantage of using redundant fibers is that they render the sensing system robust to singular sensor failures, however the challenge lies in the algorithm for merging the data from the fibers.
Modelling the Uncertainty in the Peruvian Stock and Forex markets with Dynamic Conditional Score Models Word count : 8000

I study a Dynamic Conditional Score model for modelling volatilities, or the uncertainty, (Beta-t-EGARCH) with Random Level Shifts (RLS) following the work of Qu and Perron [Econometrics Journal (2013) vol. 16, pp. 309 339] in nancial markets. The addition of random level shifts can explain the high persistence typically estimated for these series, this constitutes an alternative approach to the long memory or two component models. I also model the asymmetries between returns and volatility within this framework. Hence, I model the uncertainty in the Peruvian Stock and Forex Peruvian market using daily data from the last two decades. The estimates of the RLS component and volatilities ts well the main disturbance events in the period of study. I study how the volatilities of both markets match a model of short memory plus RLS. Finally, I carried out Monte Carlo simulations which shows how accurate is the model proposed, since is able to follow the time and spectral domain properties of the original series.
Necessary and sufficient conditions for Local optimality via weak subdifferentials

In this paper necessary and sufficient conditions for local optimality in finite dimensional normed spaces in terms of weak subdifferential are studied. It is based on newly introduced local sigma supporting function that describes the structure of given set at a particular point by using the contingent cone. In this way, the local optimality versions of related results in [8] are established. AMS Subject Classification: 65K10.
THE CHANGES IN THE CONSUMPTION EXPENDITURE PATTERNS IN TURKEY: 1987-1994

Turkey experienced a generalized liberalization of economic activity from 1980s to 1990s, due in large part to its 1987 financial liberalization program. This paper studies the changes in the expenditure patterns of Turkish household during this period, using data on household expenditure. Data come from the Survey of Household Income and Consumption Expenditures conducted by the State Institute of Statistics (SIS) of Turkey for the years 1987 and 1994. Total expenditure elasticities for eleven expenditure groups are estimated by using Engel curves. The method used for estimating regression equations is the weighted least squares. Total expenditure elasticities are estimated by using double-log function type. The changes in total expenditure elasticities of four consumption expenditure groups are statistically significant. The total expenditure elasticities of transportation-communication, restaurant and various commodities-services have increased significantly. The clothing is the only expenditure category that shows significant decrease in the total expenditure elasticity. While the clothing was a luxury commodity in 1987, it moved up near to the necessity commodity category in 1994. Different explanations for the changes of elasticities are discussed. To find out the factors that cause these changes, consumption expenditure patterns of urban and rural households and the households at different income levels are also analysed. JEL Classification: D12
Analysis of variations in ocean color’

Spectral measurements of downwelling and upwelling daylight were made in waters different with rcspcct to turbidity and pigment content and from these data the spectral values of the reflectance ratio just below the sea surface, R( x ), were calculated. The experimental results are interpreted by comparison with the theoretical R(h) values computed from the absorption and back-scattering coefficients. The importance of molecular scattering in the light back-scattering process is emphasized. The R(X) values observed for blue waters are in full agreement with computed values in which new and realistic values of the absorption coefficient for pure water are used and presented. For the various green waters, the chlorophyll concentrations and the scattering coefficients, as measured, are used in computations which account for the observed R(X) values. The inverse process, i.e. to infer the content of the water from R( x ) measurements at selected wavelengths, is discussed in view of remote sensing applications.
and Bernd Luig positions for the study of EU decision-making Party ideology and legislative agendas : Estimating contextual policy

This article introduces a novel approach for generating agenda-related estimates of the policy positions of political parties from party manifestos and expert surveys. We show that current party estimates provide for little variation across policy areas and over time. In response, we propose to relate the issue-specific ideological preference profiles of political parties to the legislative context. For the dimensional representation of policy positions of political parties our procedure weights the issue-specific preference profiles by their prominence on the agenda of each policy area. We apply this procedure to EU legislation and locate national political parties on a national/supranational and left/ right dimension, which can be used for the analysis of Council decision-making.
Large Hind Wings Enhance Gliding Performance in Ground Effect in a Neotropical Butterfly (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae)

Abstract Neotropical butterflies in the nymphalid genera Pierella Herrich-Schäffer, 1865 (Lepidoptera, Nymphalidae) and Cithaerias Hübner, 1819 (Lepidoptera, Nymphalidae) are known to glide near ground level, and have a high forewing aspect ratio.The hind wings of Pierella are proportionately larger than those of Cithaerias, suggesting a potential role in gliding flight. We show that Pierella helvina (Hewitson, 1860) (Lepidoptera, Nymphalidae) is capable of gliding for longer periods of time than Cithaerias pireta (Stoll, 1780) (Lepidoptera, Nymphalidae) both in the field and a laboratory setting. Experimental reduction of hind wing area in P. helvina led to a decrease in male gliding performance, and an increase in female wing-beat frequency. We also found that escape velocity decreased in both sexes after hind wing area reduction, but the effect was strongest in females. Although the increased drag associated with large hind wings could be detrimental to gliding flight, the large hind wing area of P. helvina effectively enhances gliding performance in ground effect.This study is the first to investigate the role of hind wings on butterfly gliding performance.
Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni and its effects on human health : current concepts and future directions

Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni is a perennial shrub with zero calorie content that has been increasing in popularity for its potential use as an adjuvant in the treatment of obesity. We conducted a review of the literature summarizing the current knowledge and role in human disease. Despite its very minimal systemic absorption, studies have been promising regarding its potential benefits against inflammation, carcinogenesis, atherosclerosis glucose control and hypertension. On the other hand, the growing popularity of artificial sweeteners does not correlate with improved trends in obesity. An increased intake of artificial non-caloric sweeteners may not be associated with decreased intake of traditional sugar-sweetened beverages and foods. The effects of Stevia on weight change have been linked to bacteria in the intestinal microbiome, mainly by affecting Clostridium and Bacteroides sp. populations. A growing body of evidence indicates that Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni is protective against malignant conversion by inhibition of DNA replication in human cancer cell growth in vitro. The level of evidence supporting general benefits to human health is insufficient. However, consumption of Stevia has demonstrated to be generally safe in most reports. Further clinical studies are warranted to determine if regular consumption brings sustained benefits for human health.
Classic Findings in the Neurobiology of PTSD Brain Structure

Neuroimaging genetic studies that associate genetic and epigenetic variation with neural activity or structure provide an opportunity to link genes to psychiatric disorders, often before psychopathology is discernable in behavior. Here we review neuroimaging genetics studies with participants who have Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Results show that genes related to the physiological stress response (e.g., glucocorticoid receptor and activity, neuroendocrine release), learning and memory (e.g., plasticity), mood, and pain perception are tied to neural intermediate phenotypes associated with PTSD. These genes are associated with and sometimes predict neural structure and function in areas involved in attention, executive function, memory, decision-making, emotion regulation, salience of potential threats, and pain perception. Evidence suggests these risk polymorphisms and neural intermediate phenotypes are vulnerabilities toward developing PTSD in the aftermath of trauma, or vulnerabilities toward particular symptoms once PTSD has developed. Work distinguishing between the re-experiencing and dissociative subtypes of PTSD, and examining other PTSD symptom clusters in addition to the re-experiencing and hyperarousal symptoms, will further clarify neurobiological mechanisms and inconsistent findings. Furthermore, an exciting possibility is that genetic associations with PTSD may eventually be understood through differential intermediate phenotypes of neural circuit structure and function, possibly underlying the different symptom clusters seen within PTSD.
Transformation mechanism of magnetite nanoparticles

A simple oxidation synthesis route was developed for producing magnetite nanoparticles with controlled size and morphology. Investigation of oxidation process of the produced magnetite nanoparticles (NP) was performed after synthesis under different temperatures. The phase transformation of synthetic magnetite nanoparticles into maghemite and, henceforth, to hematite nanoparticles at different temperatures under dry oxidation has been studied. The natural magnetite particles were directly transformed to hematite particles at comparatively lower temperature, thus, maghemite phase was bypassed. The phase structures, morphologies and particle sizes of the produced magnetic nanoparticles have been investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDX) and BET surface area analysis.
Targeted Delivery of Cisplatin-Derived Nanoprecursors via a Biomimetic Yeast Microcapsule for Tumor Therapy by the Oral Route

Targeted therapy via the patient-friendly oral route remains the holy grail of chemotherapy for cancer. Herein we report a yeast-derived platform for targeted oral delivery of cisplatin (CDDP) that is one of the most effective drugs for chemotherapy of various types of cancers. Methods: The optimal conditions were first established to fabricate yeast microcapsules (YCs) with desirable loading capability. Then, CDDP-derived precursor nanoparticles (PreCDDP) were prepared and packaged into YC to produce orally deliverable PreCDDP/YC. The physiochemical properties, in vitro drug release profiles, in vitro antitumor activity, oral targeting capability, in vivo pharmacokinetics, and in vivo efficacy of the YC-based biomimetic delivery system were examined. Results: YCs obtained under the optimized condition showed desirable loading efficiency for quantum dots that were used as a model nanocargo. In vitro experiments demonstrated rapid endocytosis and prolonged retention of YC in macrophages. By electrostatic force-mediated self-deposition, PreCDDP was efficiently loaded into YC. PreCDDP/YC showed potent cytotoxicity in different tumor cells, indicating that PreCDDP loaded in YC maintained its antitumor activity after intracellular release. As compared to CDDP and PreCDDP, orally administered PreCDDP/YC displayed significantly higher bioavailability. Post oral delivery, YC could accumulate in A549 human lung carcinoma xenografts in mice, achieving by monocyte/macrophage-mediated translocation via the lymphatic system. Through this targeting effect, orally administered PreCDDP/YC showed desirable efficacy in A549 xenograft-bearing mice, which was comparable to that of free CDDP administered by intravenous injection. Orally administered free CDDP, however, did not afford antitumor effects. Furthermore, oral treatment with PreCDDP/YC displayed better safety than free CDDP administered via the oral or intravenous route. Conclusions: This biomimetic approach can serve as an effective strategy to develop targeted oral chemotherapies based on CDDP or its derivatives.
Degree project Merton Jump-Diffusion Modeling of Stock Price Data

In this thesis, we investigate two stock price models, the BlackScholes (BS) model and the Merton Jump-Diffusion (MJD) model. Comparing the logarithmic return of the BS model and the MJD model with empirical stock price data, we conclude that the Merton Jump-Diffusion Model is substantially more suitable for the stock market. This is concluded visually not only by comparing the density functions but also by analyzing mean, variance, skewness and kurtosis of the log-returns. One technical contribution to the thesis is a suggested decision rule for initial guess of a maximum likelihood estimation of the MJDmodeled parameters.
Preparation and In-Vitro Evaluation of Sodium Alginate Based Gastroretentive Floating Tablet of Domperidone

The current study demonstrates the preparation and in vitro evaluation of gastroretentive floating tablet of Domperidone where sodium alginate was used as release controlling polymer. For gas generating agent, sodium bicarbonate was used. Tablet was prepared by direct compression technique. Physical parameters, in vitro buoyancy study, total floating time and zero order drug release study were performed. 0.1N HCl (pH 1.2) was used as dissolution medium which was used in USP II apparatus for 12 hours in order to find out the drug release pattern. Evaluated physical parameters were within acceptable range. Compatibility between drug and polymer was found in Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) study.
REGARDING STRATEGIES OF ORIENTATION AND FOCUSING OF ATTENTION AT VOLLEYBALL PLAYERS

The best performance of volleyball players in attention's orientation in visual field depends on using efficient strategies of orientation as against the persons who don't practice sports. This is obviously if the cerebral activities is analysed in connection with voluntary's orientation of attention on one or both visual fields. At the volleyball players this cerebral activities is fundamentally increased in case of focused attention on both visual fields. Maybe due to perception condition which are created by their sport activities volleyball players uses predominantly a wide-range attention in highly automated way. That is possible because they use an additional attentional process when it comes to focus the spotlight on the area enclosed from view field. Conversely, the person who don't practice sports usually generally adopt an attention with center more limited, using more attentional resources when it comes to pay attention simultaneously to both visual fields view.