Autoregressive multifactor APT model for U.S. Equity Markets

Arbitrage Pricing Theory is a one period asset pricing model used to predict equity returns based on a multivariate linear regression. We choose three sets of factors – Market specific, firm specific, and an autoregressive return term to explain returns on twenty U.S. stocks, using monthly data over the period 2000-2005. Our findings indicate that, apart from the CAPM beta factor, at least five other factors are significant in determining time series and cross sectional variations in returns. The times series regression establishes factor loadings and the cross sectional regression gives the risk premiums associated with these factors.Equity Pricing; APT; Arbitrage pricing theory; Multifactor model; Security; Pricing; CAPM

Application of Artificial Intelligence in IoT Security for Crop Yield Prediction

This research explores the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the Internet of Things (IoT) for crop yield prediction in agriculture. IoT devices, like sensors and drones, collect data on temperature, humidity, soil moisture, and crop health. AI algorithms process and integrate this data to provide a comprehensive view of the agricultural environment.AI-driven anomaly detection helps identify threats to crop yield, such as pests, diseases, and adverse weather conditions. Predictive analytics, based on historical and real-time data, forecast crop yield for informed decision-making in irrigation and fertilization.AI-powered image recognition detects early signs of pests and diseases, aiding timely treatment to prevent crop losses. Resource optimization allocates water and fertilizers efficiently, minimizing waste and environmental impact.AI-driven decision support systems offer personalized recommendations for ideal planting schedules and crop rotations, maximizing yield. Autonomous farming integrates AI into machinery for precision tasks like planting and monitoring.Secure communication protocols protect sensitive agricultural data from cyber threats, ensuring data integrity and privacy

Cytochrome P450 monooxygenase-mediated tailoring of triterpenoids and steroids in plants

The cytochrome P450 monooxygenase (CYP) superfamily comprises hemethiolate enzymes that perform remarkable regio- and stereospecific oxidative chemistry. As such, CYPs are key agents for the structural and functional tailoring of triterpenoids, one of the largest classes of plant natural products with widespread applications in pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics, and agricultural industries. In this review, we provide a full overview of 149 functionally characterised CYPs involved in the biosynthesis of triterpenoids and steroids in primary as well as in specialised metabolism. We describe the phylogenetic distribution of triterpenoid- and steroid-modifying CYPs across the plant CYPome, present a structure-based summary of their reactions, and highlight recent examples of particular interest to the field. Our review therefore provides a comprehensive up-to-date picture of CYPs involved in the biosynthesis of triterpenoids and steroids in plants as a starting point for future research

Does microneedling with 5% minoxidil offer added advantage for treatment of androgenetic alopecia in comparison to use of topical 5% minoxidil alone?

Background: Androgenetic alopecia is the most common cause of chronic hair loss. The FDA approved treatment for male androgenetic alopecia are Finasteride and Minoxidil. But many patients do not respond to these medications. Microneedling is a recent modality that releases several growth factors and enhances penetration of minoxidil, thereby promoting hair growth.Methods: 60 patients, aged 21-40 years, with androgenetic alopecia were divided into 2 groups. In group A, patients were subjected to microneedling twice monthly, immediately followed by application of topical 5% minoxidil solution over the scalp and then 1 ml twice daily. In group B, patients were treated with application of 1ml of topical 5% minoxidil solution over the scalp twice daily. The results were evaluated based on patient’s and physician’s assessment based on the standardized 7-point evaluation scale.Results: Patients in group A showed statistically significant improvement (p value<0.05) compared to group B. Headache and erythema were the most common side effects encountered in both the groups.Conclusions: Microneedling with 5% minoxidil is a safe, simple and cost-effective modality and is a promising treatment option for patients with androgenetic alopecia. It showed much better results when compared to use of topical 5% minoxidil solution alone

Multiperiod Black Litterman Asset Allocation Model

This paper aims to feed predictive multi-factor regressional models as an input to the Black-Litterman Asset Allocation Model, with predictions and allocations iterated each mont

Autoregressive multifactor APT model for U.S. Equity Markets

Arbitrage Pricing Theory is a one period asset pricing model used to predict equity returns based on a multivariate linear regression. We choose three sets of factors – Market specific, firm specific, and an autoregressive return term to explain returns on twenty U.S. stocks, using monthly data over the period 2000-2005. Our findings indicate that, apart from the CAPM beta factor, at least five other factors are significant in determining time series and cross sectional variations in returns. The times series regression establishes factor loadings and the cross sectional regression gives the risk premiums associated with these factors

Multiperiod Black Litterman Asset Allocation Model

This paper aims to feed predictive multi-factor regressional models as an input to the Black-Litterman Asset Allocation Model, with predictions and allocations iterated each mont

Oseltamivir induced sinus bradycardia: an area of potential concern

Oseltamivir was approved for the prevention and treatment of influenza in 1999 by the USFDA (US Food and Drug Administration). The use of Oseltamivir is increasing rapidly all over the world, especially after the 2009 “Swine Flu” pandemic. Less data is published as far as the cardiovascular side effects of Oseltamivir are concerned, but it could be associated with some serious cardiovascular side effects. This study presented a case series of 5 cases suspected to be suffering from seasonal influenza H1N1 (“Swine Flu”), who developed sinus bradycardia while they were on Oseltamivir therapy

Pseudomembranous Tracheitis Caused by Aspergillus Fumigatus in the Setting of High Grade T-Cell Lymphoma

Pseudomembranous tracheitis (PMT) is a rare condition most commonly caused by fungal or bacterial infection that is characterized by a pseudomembrane that partially or completely covers the tracheobronchial tree. PMT is most commonly found in immunocompromised patient populations, such as post-chemotherapy, AIDS, post-transplant and hematological malignancies. Due to its rarity, PMT is often not included in the differential diagnosis. This case describes a 65 year old male with persistent fever and refractory cough despite high dose empiric antibiotics. Subsequent bronchoscopy with biopsy revealed pseudomembranous tracheitis due to Aspergillus fumigatus in the setting of T-cell lymphoma. PMT should be considered in the differential diagnosis of refractory cough in the immunocompromised population. However, it has been described in patients with nonspecific respiratory symptoms such as dyspnea, cough, and other airway issues