Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Land-Use Patterns on Home-Based Tour Complexity and Total Distances Traveled: A Path Analysis

This work studies the relationships between the number of complex tours (with one or more intermediate stops) and simple home-based tours, total distances traveled by mode, and land-use patterns both at the residence and at the workplace using path analysis. The model includes commuting distance, car ownership and motorcycle ownership, which are intermediate variables in the relationship between land use, tour complexity and distances traveled by mode. The dataset used here was collected in a region comprising four municipalities located in the north of Portugal that are made up of urban areas, their sprawling suburbs, and surrounding rural hinterland. The results confirm the association between complex tours and higher levels of car use. Land-use patterns significantly affect travelled distances by mode either directly and indirectly via the influence of longer-term decisions like vehicle ownership and commuting distance. The results obtained highlight the role of socioeconomic variables in influencing tour complexity; in particular, households with children, household income, and workers with a college degree tend to do more complex tours. Land-use patterns mediate the effects of tour complexity on the kilometers travelled by different modes. Increasing densities in central areas, and particularly the concentration of jobs, have relevant benefits by reducing car kilometers driven.
Congenital neurodevelopmental diagnoses and an intensive care unit: Defining a population*

Objective: To identify and describe the population of children with congenital or perinatally acquired neurodevelopmental diagnoses in a pediatric intensive care unit and to assess the nature and extent of their utilization of critical care resources. Design: Twelve-month, inception cohort study. Setting: Intensive care unit at an urban, tertiary care pediatric hospital. Patients and Methods: All pediatric intensive care unit admissions were screened for preexisting neurodevelopmental diagnoses. Computerized and chart-based medical records were reviewed for demographic, clinical, and outcome data. Results: A total of 309 children with congenital neurodevelopmental diagnoses accounted for 427 pediatric intensive care unit admissions. This represented 23% of the total 1,820 admissions in 1 yr. Trisomy 21 was the most identifiable developmental abnormality (n = 25, 8%). Eighty-five percent of the children were cared for at home before hospitalization. A total of 220 of the admissions (52%) demonstrated a preexisting technology dependence. Fewer children admitted from the home-care setting had tracheostomies or were ventilator dependent. The majority of admissions were scheduled surgical admissions (45%) or for management of acute respiratory illness (26%). Of the patients with preexisting tracheostomy, nonrespiratory conditions accounted for 70% of acute admitting diagnoses. Two hundred twenty-three of the admissions (52%) required noninvasive or transtracheal ventilatory support, yet the length of stay and mortality rate were consistent with those reported in other general pediatric intensive care unit populations. The average and median length of stay were 5.4 and 2.0 days, respectively. Mortality rate was 3%. Technology support needs at discharge increased significantly from admission for enterostomy support (p = .008) and mechanical ventilation (p= .008). Conclusions: Children with congenital or perinatally acquired neurodevelopmental diagnoses represented nearly one quarter of all pediatric intensive care unit admissions at a tertiary academic center. This population has substantial ongoing medical needs, requiring utilization of intensive care resources. More rigorous investigations are needed to determine the effect of this burgeoning population in pediatric critical care, to optimize their care, and to meet the comprehensive needs of their families.
A dynamic theory of economics: What are the market forces?

The main weakness in the neoclassical theory of economics is its static nature. By a static model one cannot explain the observed time paths of economic quantities, like the flows of production of firms, the flows of consumption of consumers, and the prices of goods. The error in the neoclassical framework is that economic units are assumed to be in their optimum state and thus not willing to change their behaviour. Therefore, in neoclassical models a static equilibrium prevails. In this paper, the authors change this assumption so that economic units are assumed to be willing to improve their current state that may not be the optimal one. In this way, one can explain economic dynamics where every economic unit is changing its behaviour towards improving its welfare. The authors define the economic forces acting upon the production of firms, the consumption of consumers, and the prices of goods are changing in time. They show that in this dynamic system, business cycles and bankruptcies of firms emerge in a natural way like in the real world.
Sampled-data control for singularly perturbed systems with actuator saturation

The issue of the sampled-data control for singularly perturbed systems (SPSs) with input saturation is considered. Based on the Lyapunov-Krasovskii functional and linear matrix inequality (LMI) approach, the design method of sampled-data controller for SPSs with actuator saturation is proposed. Then, the estimation of stability region is given by solving the convex optimization problem. Finally, numerical examples are provided to demonstrate the merits of the obtained results.
The impact of voluntary environmental disclosure on firm value: Does organizational visibility play a mediation role?

The current study investigates whether organizational visibility, that is the extent to which analysts follow, and institutions hold, a firm's stock (Baker, Powell, & Weaver, , p. 47), may explain the mechanism through which corporate environmental disclosure (CED) affects firm value. It explores whether CED impacts organizational visibility, and if so, whether firm value increases in organizational visibility, after accounting for greenhouse gas emissions intensity (GHG) as well as several firm‐level and country‐level controls. It utilizes a sample of S&P Global 1200 companies from 2010 to 2015. Using structural equation modeling to address the complex interrelationships between the variables of interest and employing Full Information Maximum Likelihood regression method, the findings show that organizational visibility does not play a statistically significant mediation role on the relationship between CED and firm value. However, organizational visibility is significantly associated with both CED and firm value, which indicates that failing to control for organizational visibility when examining the relationship between CED and firm value could yield misleading results. The results also show that prior CED significantly reduces current GHG. Interestingly, analyst coverage is found to play a full mediation role on the relationship between institutional ownership and firm value as well as a partial mediation role on the relationship between prior GHG and firm value. Thus, this study suggests that corporate management lobby financial analysts and educate them about their firms' environmental disclosure and performance to improve their information set and increase firm visibility and value.
Left atrial volume in the prediction of first ischemic stroke in an elderly cohort without atrial fibrillation.

OBJECTIVE To determine the clinical importance of left atrial (LA) volume in the prediction of first ischemic stroke. PATIENTS AND METHODS This retrospective cohort study included randomly selected residents of Olmsted County, Minnesota, aged 65 years or older, who had undergone transthoracic echocardiography at least once at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn, between January 1, 1990, and December 31, 1998, were in sinus rhythm, and had no history of stroke, transient ischemic attack, atrial fibrillation, or valvular heart disease. Patients were monitored through medical records for first ischemic stroke or death. RESULTS Of 1554 residents (59% women) aged 75+/-7 years, 92 (6%) had experienced at least 1 ischemic stroke over 4.3+/-2.7 years (incident stroke rate, 1.4 per 100 person-years). Left atrial volume of 32 mL/m2 or greater (hazard ratio [HR], 1.63; confidence interval [CI], 1.08-2.46) was independent of age (HR, 1.04; CI, 1.02-1.07), diabetes (HR, 1.91; CI, 1.07-3.41), myocardial infarction (HR, 1.64; CI, 1.01-2.64), and hyperlipidemia (HR, 1.55; CI, 1.01-2.37) for the prediction of first ischemic stroke. When quartiles of LA dimension were plotted against quartiles of indexed LA volume, a stepwise increase in risk with each quartile increment was evident only for indexed LA volume. Also, an LA volume of 32 mL/m2 or greater was associated with an increased mortality risk (HR, 1.30; CI, 1.09-1.56), independent of age, sex, and stroke status. CONCLUSIONS In our elderly cohort with no prior atrial fibrillation, LA volume was independently predictive of first ischemic stroke, incremental to age, diabetes, myocardial infarction, and hyperlipidemia. It was also an independent predictor of death.
The Penalty-Kick Game Under Incomplete Information

This paper presents a model of the penalty-kick game between a soccer goalkeeper and a kicker, in which there is uncertainty about the kicker’s type (and there are two possible types of kicker). To find a solution for this game we use the concept of Bayesian equilibrium, and we find that, typically, one of the kicker’s types will play a mixed strategy while the other type will choose a pure strategy (or, sometimes, a “restricted mixed strategy”). The model has a simpler version in which the players can only choose between two strategies (right and left), and a more complex version in which they can also choose a third strategy (the center of the goal). Comparing the incomplete-information Bayesian equilibria with the corresponding complete-information Nash equilibria, we find that in all cases the expected scoring probability increases (so that, on average, the goalkeeper is worse off under incomplete information). The three-strategy model is also useful to explain why it could be optimal for a goal keeper never to choose the center of the goal (although at the same time there were some kickers who always chose to shoot to the center).
Two extraordinarily severe cases of Treacher Collins syndrome

Here, we report two extraordinarily severe cases of Teacher Collins syndrome. Initially, amniotic bands and plical fold disruption were considered, but downslanting eyes made us consider severe Treacher Collins syndrome. A TCOF1 mutation in exon 24 was identified in Patient 1 (c.4355_4356ins14, resulting in p.1456Thrfs*18). Patient 2, who expired on day 4, is so similar to Patient 1 that severe Treacher Collins syndrome may be inferred in this instance. Neither the TCOF1 mutation nor the well‐known variability in the expression in affected families with Treacher Collins syndrome (∼40% of reported cases) can explain the severity of these cases; otherwise, we would be aware of such cases within families from time to time. We are unaware of any recent sporadic cases (∼60% of reported cases) exactly like ours either with a single exception in the case reported by Writzl et al. [ 2008 ] with a TCOF1 mutation. The case described by Otto in 1841 is spectacular. We propose several hypotheses to be considered in explaining this developmental amplification, including some promoter effect on the gene, some position effect on the gene, a polymorphism elsewhere in the gene, a point mutation elsewhere in the gene, a polymorphism in another gene, or a point mutation in another gene, such as POLR1C (which maps to 6p21.1) or POLR1D (which maps to13q12.2). We also review the etiology and pathogenesis of Treacher Collins syndrome, and discuss several other severe cases from the past. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Power balance theory based control of grid interfaced solar photovoltaic power generating system with improved power quality

This paper proposes a grid interfaced solar photovoltaic (SPV) power generating system consisting of a SPV, DC-DC boost converter, voltage source converter (VSC), interfacing inductors, ripple filter and a three phase grid feeding variety of linear and nonlinear loads. The reference grid currents are estimated by using power balance theory (PBT) to control the three-leg voltage source converter (VSC). The proposed SPV power generating system provides unity power factor, reactive power compensation for voltage regulation in a three phase distribution system. In this two stage SPV power generating system, the DC link voltage of VSC is regulated through a DC voltage PI (Proportional integral) controller and the maximum power point tracking (MPPT) is achieved using a DC-DC boost converter. The grid interfaced SPV power generating system is modeled and simulated in the MATLAB using the Simulink and the sim power system (SPS) toolboxes.
Design and Optimization of SHF Composite FBAR Resonators

We propose an apodization technique-based composite thin-film bulk acoustic wave resonator (c-FBAR) design to enable the displacement and strain energy confinement at the central section of the resonator while in operation at the resonance mode. Sinc-shaped AlN on Silicon on Insulator apodized c-FBARs is designed to attain close to 90% energy localization. In this paper, a single crystal silicon as the mechanical layer and an AlN piezoelectric material as the transducer layer of the resonator implemented by InvenSense Inc.’s AlN MEMS-CMOS platform renders an asymmetric feature to the traditional FBAR resonator. The nature of composite thin-film piezoelectric on substrate FBAR resonators in the super high-frequency (SHF) range is studied in detail. Furthermore, a complete deembedding procedure to extract the resonator parameters from the CMOS + MEMS measured data is also explained meticulously. A complete equivalent circuit modeling for c-FBAR operating in the SHF is provided. Measurement data statistics show that sinc c-FBAR features superior electromechanical coupling coefficient (<inline-formula> <tex-math notation="LaTeX">$k_{\mathrm {\mathbf {teff}}}^{\mathrm {\mathbf {2}}}$ </tex-math></inline-formula>) than that of pentagon c-FBAR. As a result, we successfully demonstrate a sinc c-FBAR resonator operating at 3.264 GHz with an electromechanical coupling coefficient of 2.12%, a loaded quality factor (<inline-formula> <tex-math notation="LaTeX">$Q$ </tex-math></inline-formula>) of 790 and an unloaded <inline-formula> <tex-math notation="LaTeX">$Q$ </tex-math></inline-formula> of 2507.
Matching Auditory and Visual Signals: Is Sensory Modality Just Another Feature?

In order to perceive the world coherently, we need to integrate features of objects and events that are presented to our senses. Here we investigated the temporal limit of integration in unimodal visual and auditory as well as crossmodal auditory–visual conditions. Participants were presented with alternating visual and auditory stimuli and were asked to match them either within or between modalities. At alternation rates of about 4 Hz and higher, participants were no longer able to match visual and auditory stimuli across modalities correctly, while matching within either modality showed higher temporal limits. Manipulating different temporal stimulus characteristics (stimulus offsets and/or auditory–visual SOAs) did not change performance. Interestingly, the difference in temporal limits between crossmodal and unimodal conditions appears strikingly similar to temporal limit differences between unimodal conditions when additional features have to be integrated. We suggest that adding a modality across which sensory input is integrated has the same effect as adding an extra feature to be integrated within a single modality.
Varicocele repair in the era of modern assisted reproductive techniques

Purpose of review This review looks at the literature on varicocele repair and its effect on assisted reproductive techniques. The effects of varicocele correction on improved sperm production have been well documented with semen analysis data. What remain to be elucidated are the causes of the varicocele effect and how correction of the resultant pathophysiology may affect the outcomes of modern assisted reproductive technology. Recent findings Basic science research shows us that varicoceles exert deleterious effects on Leydig cells, Sertoli cells, and germ cells via very different mechanisms. The effects of varicocele correction on the reproductive potential of sperm are less well understood. Clinical research has shown improved semen parameters, DNA integrity, and assisted reproductive technology outcomes after varicocele repair. Summary Varicocele correction presents a possible method to optimize a couples’ reproductive potential or decrease the need for complex assisted reproductive technology.
Future directions for treatment in forensic psychiatry

Background As the availability of mental hospital beds has fallen, so the number of people in prison has risen. Aims To review current policy trends in British forensic psychiatry and put them in an international context. Method Literature on the prevalence rates of psychiatric disorder in prisons and jails has been examined for the USA, England & Wales and New Zealand. Results All studies show a high prevalence of mental disorder in prisons and jails. Authors in the USA suggest that prisons are replacing mental hospitals. In England & Wales rates of psychosis are reported as 4–10% for remanded prisoners and 2–7% for sentenced prisoners. Substance misuse among prisoners is a major problem. Prison is the preferred place of disposal for large numbers of mentally disordered people. Does this matter? Why should this be the case? Is this the cheapest option? Politicians are considering new powers to direct more people into institutions (presumably prisons) on the grounds of public protection. Conclusions We need more information about attitudes and their formation. We need more interprofessional dialogue about the best arrangements for people with mental disorders, and inter-disciplinary education.
Development and Deployment of Saturated-Core Fault Current Limiters in Distribution and Transmission Substations

Zenergy Power has been developing an inductive-type of fault current limiter (FCL) for electric power grid applications. The FCL employs a magnetically saturating reactor concept which acts as a variable inductor in an electric circuit. In March 2009 Zenergy Power, with funding from the California Energy Commission and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), installed an FCL in the Avanti distribution circuit of Southern California Edison's Shandin substation in San Bernardino, CA. Rated at 15 kV and 1,250 amperes steady-state, the “Avanti” device is the first superconductor FCL installed in a US utility. In January 2010, the “Avanti” device successfully limited its first series of real-world faults when the circuit experienced multiple single-phase and three-phase faults. After successfully validating the performance of a new “compact” saturated-core FCL, Zenergy Power received contracts to install a 12 kV, 1,250 amperes compact FCL in the CE Electric UK grid in early 2011 and a 138 kV, 1,300 amperes FCL at the Tidd substation of American Electric Power in late 2011.
Tax avoidance, tax risk and the cost of debt in a bank-dominated economy

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether tax avoidance has a positive or negative effect on firms’ cost of debt. It further investigates whether the implications for the cost of debt are different for tax avoidance and tax risk. Design/methodology/approach Based on a sample of 201 firms listed on Frankfurt Stock Exchange from 2009 to 2014, three tests are performed using pooled OLS regression. Controlling for numerous variables that have been found to influence the cost of debt, a first model examines the relationship between tax avoidance and the cost of debt. A second model examines the relationship between tax risk and the cost of debt and a third model interacts tax avoidance with tax risk. Findings The results show that tax avoidance has a negative effect on the cost of debt; however, tax risk increases the cost of debt. These results indicate that creditors generally view tax avoidance as positive and that tax avoidance is not regarded as inherently risky. Although tax avoidance is rewarded by capital markets with lower interest rates, tax risk contributes to higher interest rates. The effect of tax avoidance on the cost of debt depends therefore on the level of tax risk. Originality/value This paper contributes to two distinct strands of research: literature investigating the driving factors behind the cost of debt and literature investigating the consequences of firms’ tax avoidance activities.
Field Challenge of Cattle Vaccinated with a Combined Babesia bovis and Babesia bigemina Frozen Immunogen

Abstract: To determine the optimal dose of a combined, frozen immunogen containing in vitro culture‐derived strains of Babesia bovis and Babesia bigemina, twenty‐four 14‐month‐old Bos taurus steers from a Boophilus microplus‐free area in Northern Mexico were used in this experiment. Cattle were randomly allocated into six groups with four animals each, and were intramuscularly inoculated as follows: group 1 (control animals) were administered with normal bovine erythrocytes; group 2 received 1 × 107B. bovis‐ and B. bigemina‐infected erythrocytes as a combined fresh immunogen. Groups 3‐6 were inoculated with a combined frozen immunogen containing (previous to cryopreservation at −196°C) 1 × 107, 5 × 107, 1 × 108, and 5 × 108 infected erythrocytes of each parasite species, respectively. Four months after immunization, principal and control animals were translocated to a bovine babesiosis endemic zone for field challenge. This was carried out by introducing the experimental cattle to tick‐infested pastures for 30 days without ixodicide treatment. Cattle were monitored from day 8 postintroduction to the field (PIF) by recording the manifestation of clinical disease, rectal temperature values (RT), packed cell volume index (PCV), and percent of parasitized erythrocytes (PPE). At challenge, all experimental cattle became infected with both Babesia bovis and B. bigemina. However, except for two animals from group 6, none of the vaccinated animals showed signs of acute clinical babesiosis; therefore, no treatment was instituted. Out of six animals showing acute clinical babesiosis (four group 1 controls and two group 6 vaccinates), two animals (one from each group) died, despite babesiacide treatment, as they manifested classical cerebral babesiosis caused by B. bovis. Regardless of the dose or type of immunogen used (combined fresh or frozen), 90% of vaccinated cattle were determined to be protected against the virulent Babesia sp. field isolates. Nevertheless, by evaluating clinical parameters, such as average of maximum drop in PVC index (28.5%), average duration of parasitemia (3 days for B. bovis; 8.5 days for B. bigemina), and average duration of RT values ≥ 39.5 °C (2 days), animals receiving 1 × 108 infected erythrocytes, as combined frozen immunogen, were more efficaciously protected against challenge with virulent B. bovis and B. bigemina field isolates.