Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Employment and Wage Effects of Privatization: Evidence from Hungary, Romania, Russia, and Ukraine

We use longitudinal methods and universal panel data on 30,000 initially state-owned manufacturing firms in four transition economies to estimate the impacts of privatization on employment and wages. The results in all four countries consistently reject job losses and they never imply large wage cuts from privatization to either foreign or domestic owners. The domestic privatization estimates are close to zero for employment, while for wages they are negative but small in magnitude; estimated foreign privatization effects are nearly always positive and sometimes large for both outcome variables. We find that the negligible consequences of domestic privatization result from effects on scale, productivity, and costs that are large but offsetting in Hungary and Romania, and from small effects of all types in Russia and Ukraine. The positive employment outcome of foreign ownership results from a substantial scale-expansion effect that dominates the productivity-improvement effect, and the positive wage outcome from productivity improvement dominating the cost-reduction effect.
Ligand Interactions T Cells via OX40-OX40 + Cells and CD4 Cross-Talk between Activated Human NK

It is important to understand which molecules are relevant for linking innate and adaptive immune cells. In this study, we show that OX40 ligand is selectively induced on IL-2, IL-12, or IL-15-activated human NK cells following stimulation through NKG2D, the low afﬁnity receptor for IgG (CD16) or killer cell Ig-like receptor 2DS2. CD16-activated NK cells costimulate TCR-induced proliferation, and IFN- (cid:2) produced by autologous CD4 (cid:1) T cells and this process is dependent upon expression of OX40 ligand and B7 by the activated NK cells. These ﬁndings suggest a novel and unexpected link between the natural and speciﬁc immune responses, providing direct evidence for cross-talk between human CD4 (cid:1) T cells and NK receptor-activated NK cells. The Journal of Immunology, 2004, 173: 3716–3724. second
On the performance analysis of composite multipath/shadowing channels using the G-distribution

Composite multipath fading/shadowing environments are frequently encountered in different realistic scenarios. These channels are generally modeled as a mixture of Nakagami-m multipath fading and log-normal shadowing. The resulting composite probability density function (pdf) is not available in closed form, thereby making the performance evaluation of communication links in these channels cumbersome. In this paper, we propose to model composite channels by the G-distribution. This pdf arises when the log-normal shadowing is substituted by the inverse-Gaussian one. This substitution will prove to be very accurate for several shadowing conditions. In this paper we conduct a performance evaluation of single-user communication systems operating in a composite channel. Our study starts by deriving an analytical expression for the outage probability. Then, we derive the moment generating function of the G-distribution, hence facilitating the calculation of average bit error probabilities. We also derive analytical expressions for the channel capacity for three adaptive transmission techniques, namely, i) optimal rate adaptation with constant power, ii) optimal power and rate adaptation, and iii) channel inversion with fixed rate.
Auditory, visual and proprioceptive integration as a substrate of language development: Sensory integration and language

Results: Auditory information is the first sensory stimulus to consider because, during the first year of life, the infant recognizes and discriminates environmental signals that correspond to language, followed by a peak in its acquisition and, subsequently, by a stage of maximum linguistic discrimination. Visual information allows correlating language with images since it acts as the substrate for the designation and understanding of words, as well as for interpretation and imitation of the emotional component in gesticulation. Proprioceptive information provides feedback on motor performance patterns used in language production.
A new measurement of the evolving near-infrared galaxy luminosity function out to z≃ 4: a continuing challenge to theoretical models of galaxy formation

We present the most accurate measurement to date of cosmological evolution of the near-infrared galaxy luminosity function, from the local Universe out to z ≃ 4. The analysis is based on a large and highly complete sample of galaxies selected from the first data release of the UKIDSS Ultra Deep Survey. Exploiting a master catalogue of K- and z-band selected galaxies over an area of 0.7 deg 2 , we analyse a sample of ≃50000 galaxies, all with reliable photometry in 16 bands from the far-ultraviolet to the mid-infrared. The unique combination of a large area and depth provided by the Ultra Deep Survey allows us to trace the evolution of the K-band luminosity function with unprecedented accuracy. In particular, via a maximum-likelihood analysis we obtain a simple parametrization for the luminosity function and its cosmological evolution, including both luminosity and density evolution, which provides an excellent description of the data from z = 0 up to z ≃ 4. We find differential evolution for galaxies dependent on galaxy luminosity, revealing once again the 'downsizing behaviour' of galaxy formation. Finally, we compare our results with the predictions of the latest theoretical models of galaxy formation, based on both semi-analytical prescriptions and full hydrodynamical simulations.
A prospective observational pharmacovigilance study of adverse drug reaction monitoring in patients of tuberculosis receiving category I and II treatment regimens at tertiary care hospital

Background: First line Anti-TB therapy with rifampicin, isoniazid, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol / streptomycin is very effective. However, major adverse reactions to antituberculous drugs can cause significant morbidity and mortality. One of the main reasons for non‑adherence to anti‑TB therapy (ATT) is ADRs, even under DOTS. Present study was carried out in tertiary care hospital. The objective of the study was to evaluate types and frequency of ADRs in intensive and continuation phase of category I and II Anti-TB medication.Methods: A prospective observational study conducted in Department of TB- Chest and Medicine, Govt. Medical College, Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India. All the TB patients reporting at DOTS Center of institute were enrolled and monitored for ADRs. The causality and severity of the reactions were determined using Naranjo algorithm and Hartwig questionnaire.Results: Total, n = 241 tuberculosis patients on DOTS therapy were enrolled for the study. Out of 241 patients, 17 were dropouts so 224 patients assessed for ADRs. 127 (56.69%) developed adverse drug reactions. The higher numbers of ADRs were observed in age group 31-40 yrs followed by 21-30 yrs, ADRs were more common in men. Pulmonary TB (73.66%) cases were more common than extra pulmonary TB. Majority of adverse drug reactions were Gastrointestinal (GI) problems (30.92%), followed by Liver dysfunction and Hepatotoxicity (20.39%) and skin problems (17.10%). The causality of ADRs, in majority cases were found to be Probable (56.57%). Around 19 patients require treatment interruption and most of the patients were managed with supportive medication without removing anti tubercular drug from regimen.Conclusions: ADRs are major limiting factor for completion of drug therapy under RNTCP and occurrence of drug resistance which requires attention of all health care professionals.
Revisiting the issue of boundaries between coaching and counselling

The state of coaching as a field of knowledge and practice has recently changed significantly. Since the first edition of this Handbook some debates and agendas for research became less important but others became more prominent. The issue of differentiation between therapy/counselling and coaching received significant attention in the last decade (Simons, 2006; Bachkirova, 2007; Griffiths and Campbell, 2008; Spinelli, 2008; Maxwell, 2009; Price, 2009; Baker, 2013) but there are signs of the very recent declining of interest for this topic. One might assume from this situation that this issue has been resolved once and for all. However, the conclusions of the above publications indicate that for various parties interested in the development of the coaching field many questions remain unanswered. This suggests that the topic of differentiating coaching from counselling/therapy would benefit from revisiting and possibly reformulating.
The Effects of a Dentifrice Containing Propolis on Mutans Streptococci: A Clinico-Microbiological Study

Background Propolis is a natural resinous mixture produced by honeybees, which exhibits anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, cytostatic and cariostatic properties. The aim of the study was to evaluate the anti-bacterial efficacy of a propolis based dentifrice on Mutans Streptococci colonizing the oral cavity of young patients using Dentocult® SM strip mutans test. Methods Screening of 367 male subjects within the age group of 7–12 years was carried out. A total of 30 children were included in the study. They were instructed to use a Propolis dentifrice (Probee,™ Quasi-Medical Products, Seoul Propolis) daily for three minutes over a period of four weeks. Plaque and salivary samples were collected at baseline, 1st week, 3rd week and 4th week and were analyzed for Mutans Streptococci count using Dentocult® SM strip Mutans kit (Orion Diagnostica Oy, Finland). Student paired t-test and Friedman test were used for statistical analysis. Results It was unveiled that mean Mutans streptococci count at 1st week and 4th week, showed significant reduction (p≤0.0001), compared to baseline scores. Using Friedman's test, statistically significant difference was found between baseline and 1st week, 3rd week and 4th week follow up (P < 0.001). Conclusion Propolis dentifrice reduces in-vivo microbial load in microenvironments especially against Mutans streptococci in the oral cavity of young patients. Thus, it's potential to be inculcated and used as an alternative measure to prevent dental caries can be considered and further investigation involving greater number of participants is recommended.
Are Busy Boards Effective Monitors?

We present evidence that busy outside directors are associated with weak corporate governance based on a sample of U.S. industrial firms from 1989 to 1995. When a majority of outside directors serve on three or more boards, firms exhibit lower market-to-book ratios as well as weaker operating profitability. Appointments of busy outside directors appear unrelated to company performance, but such directors are more likely to depart boards following poor firm performance. When a majority of outside directors are busy, the sensitivity of CEO turnover to performance is significantly lower than when a majority of outside directors are not busy. Investors applaud departures of busy outside directors, and this effect is more pronounced for firms where the departure results in the majority of the remaining outside directors being not busy. When directors become busy as a result of acquiring an additional board seat, firms where they serve as directors experience negative abnormal returns.
A randomized controlled study of cognitive therapy for relapse prevention for bipolar affective disorder: outcome of the first year.

BACKGROUND Despite the use of mood stabilizers, a significant proportion of patients with bipolar affective disorder experience frequent relapses. A pilot study of cognitive therapy (CT) specifically designed to prevent relapses for bipolar affective disorder showed encouraging results when used in conjunction with mood stabilizers. This article reports the outcome of a randomized controlled study of CT to help prevent relapses and promote social functioning. METHODS We randomized 103 patients with bipolar 1 disorder according to the DSM-IV, who experienced frequent relapses despite the prescription of commonly used mood stabilizers, into a CT group or control group. Both the control and CT groups received mood stabilizers and regular psychiatric follow-up. In addition, the CT group received an average of 14 sessions of CT during the first 6 months and 2 booster sessions in the second 6 months. RESULTS During the 12-month period, the CT group had significantly fewer bipolar episodes, days in a bipolar episode, and number of admissions for this type of episode. The CT group also had significantly higher social functioning. During these 12 months, the CT group showed less mood symptoms on the monthly mood questionnaires. Furthermore, there was significantly less fluctuation in manic symptoms in the CT group. The CT group also coped better with manic prodromes at 12 months. CONCLUSION Our findings support the conclusion that CT specifically designed for relapse prevention in bipolar affective disorder is a useful tool in conjunction with mood stabilizers.
Cloverleaf communication apprehension: influential extent of the 4-h project achievement process

Fear and anxiety are common repercussions of public speaking in youth. Previous research examined communication apprehension (CA) scores in older adolescents and young adults, yet few explored the extent of public speaking events among youth and none explored the 4-H community. The purpose of the study is to explore to what extent 4-H Cloverleaf Project Achievement (PA) influences communication apprehension among Cloverleaf 4-H members throughout Georgia. Quantitative research methods were used to conduct a questionnaire during the Cloverleaf PA. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze data collected at four Cloverleaf PA events across Georgia. Communication apprehension levels, including sub-score, total scores, and overall changes, along with their relationship to the demographic data was determined. Findings show that GA Cloverleaf PA does not help reduce CA levels within the respondents. The 4-H Experiential Learning Model provided a basis for interpreting the findings and recommendations for research and practice. INDEX WORDS: Anxiety, Cloverleaf, Communication, Communication Apprehension, Project Achievement, Public Speaking, Youth Development, 4-H Experiential Learning Model, 4-H Relationship CLOVERLEAF COMMUNICATION APPREHENSION: INFLUENTIAL EXTENT OF THE 4-H PROJECT ACHIEVEMENT PROCESS
An Examination of Antecedents to Perceived Community Resilience in Disaster Postcrisis Communication

Through an online survey of residents in areas affected by Hurricane Matthew (n = 596), this study examines antecedents that lead to perceived community resilience (PCR) in a disaster crisis. Crisis efficacy, community identification, positive and negative emotions, and social media engagement are identified as factors contributing to PCR. Social media engagement was defined as coping behaviors such as, information seeking, social support seeking, and giving behaviors on social media during and in the aftermath of crisis. The results of this study provide implications for postcrisis rebuilding processes, and how government and organizational communicators can utilize social media communication to foster PCR.
Fine-grained semi-supervised labeling of large shape collections

In this paper we consider the problem of classifying shapes within a given category (e.g., chairs) into finer-grained classes (e.g., chairs with arms, rocking chairs, swivel chairs). We introduce a multi-label (i.e., shapes can belong to multiple classes) semi-supervised approach that takes as input a large shape collection of a given category with associated sparse and noisy labels, and outputs cleaned and complete labels for each shape. The key idea of the proposed approach is to jointly learn a distance metric for each class which captures the underlying geometric similarity within that class, e.g., the distance metric for swivel chairs evaluates the global geometric resemblance of chair bases. We show how to achieve this objective by first geometrically aligning the input shapes, and then learning the class-specific distance metrics by exploiting the feature consistency provided by this alignment. The learning objectives consider both labeled data and the mutual relations between the distance metrics. Given the learned metrics, we apply a graph-based semi-supervised classification technique to generate the final classification results. In order to evaluate the performance of our approach, we have created a benchmark data set where each shape is provided with a set of ground truth labels generated by Amazon's Mechanical Turk users. The benchmark contains a rich variety of shapes in a number of categories. Experimental results show that despite this variety, given very sparse and noisy initial labels, the new method yields results that are superior to state-of-the-art semi-supervised learning techniques.
Designing Tangibles for Children: One Day Hands-on Workshop

This hands-on workshop introduces a foundation for designing tangibles for children. Participants engage in a low-fidelity design challenge using the iPad Osmo system. We focus on how designing tangibles for children is unique from other design problems and processes. We walk participants through an outcome driven design process using the award winning Developmentally Situated Design (DSD) card set -- focusing on cognitive, emotional, physical, and social skills specific to children at different ages. Small groups create solutions for the same design challenge, but focus on the skills and abilities of a specific age group. We facilitate a compare and contrast exercise of their solutions to help synthesize the complexities of, and showcase skills for, designing child-centric tangibles. While not necessary for participation, we encourage participants who have them to bring iPads (v2 or higher) or iPad minis. Participants are also encouraged to review the DSD II cards in advance, available at http://www.antle. iat.sfu. ca/DSD.
Galaxy Morphology from NICMOS Parallel Imaging

We present high-resolution Near-Infrared Camera and Multiobject Spectrometer images of random fields obtained in parallel to other Hubble Space Telescope observations. We present galaxy number counts reaching H1.6=24. The H1.6-band galaxy counts show good agreement with the deepest I- and K-band counts obtained from ground-based data. We present the distribution of galaxies with morphological type to H1.6<23. We find relatively fewer irregular galaxies compared with an I-band sample from the Hubble Deep Field, which we attribute to their blue color rather than to morphological K-corrections. We conclude that the irregulars are intrinsically faint blue galaxies at z<1.
Books as Capital Assets

In 2007, authors and publishers released book manuscripts with a value of $9.1 billion. These books will continue to be sold for decades. Because of this long working life, the international guidelines for national accounts recommend that countries classify production of books and other entertainment, literary, and artistic originals as an investment activity and then depredate those books over time. However, the Bureau of Economic Analysis did not capitalize this category of intangible assets until the July 2013 benchmark revision. In order to change the national accounts, this paper collects data on production of book manuscripts from 1900 to 2010. The paper then calculates how GDP statistics change when book manuscripts are classified as capital assets.The main empirical results are as follows: 1) Book manuscripts have a useful lifespan of at least fifty years with an annual depreciation rate of 12 per cent per year; 2) Nominal book investment has hovered around 0.06 per cent of nominal GDP from the 1930s until 2010. Therefore, nominal GDP growth does not change much when book production is classified as an investment activity; 3) After 1970, book investment prices rose faster than overall GDP prices. Accordingly, average inflation rises slightly when book production is classified as investment. Before 1970, book investment prices roughly track overall GDP prices.
The first 3 years of Medicare prospective payment: An overview

This article provides a synopsis of the available evidence on the impact of the Medicare prospective payment system (PPS) for hospitals over the first 3 years of its implementation. The impact of PPS on hospitals, Medicare beneficiaries, post-hospital care, other payers for inpatient hospital services, other health care providers, and Medicare program operations and expenditures is examined.
This Paper Is Included in the Proceedings of the 11th Usenix Symposium on Networked Systems Design and Implementation (nsdi '14). Mtcp: a Highly Scalable User-level Tcp Stack for Multicore Systems Mtcp: a Highly Scalable User-level Tcp Stack for Multicore Systems

Scaling the performance of short TCP connections on multicore systems is fundamentally challenging. Although many proposals have attempted to address various shortcomings , inefficiency of the kernel implementation still persists. For example, even state-of-the-art designs spend 70% to 80% of CPU cycles in handling TCP connections in the kernel, leaving only small room for innovation in the user-level program. This work presents mTCP, a high-performance user-level TCP stack for multicore systems. mTCP addresses the inefficiencies from the ground up—from packet I/O and TCP connection management to the application interface. In addition to adopting well-known techniques, our design (1) translates multiple expensive system calls into a single shared memory reference, (2) allows efficient flow-level event aggregation, and (3) performs batched packet I/O for high I/O efficiency. Our evaluations on an 8-core machine showed that mTCP improves the performance of small message transactions by a factor of 25 compared to the latest Linux TCP stack and a factor of 3 compared to the best-performing research system known so far. It also improves the performance of various popular applications by 33% to 320% compared to those on the Linux stack.
A Practical Bayesian Framework for Backprop Networks

A quantitative and practical Bayesian framework is described for learning of mappings in feedforward networks. The framework makes possible: (1) objective comparisons between solutions using alternative network architectures; (2) objective stopping rules for deletion of weights; (3) objective choice of magnitude and type of weight decay terms or additive regularisers (for penalising large weights, etc.); (4) a measure of the e ective number of well{determined parameters in a model; (5) quanti ed estimates of the error bars on network parameters and on network output; (6) objective comparisons with alternative learning and interpolation models such as splines and radial basis functions. The Bayesian `evidence' automatically embodies `Occam's razor,' penalising over{ exible and over{complex architectures. The Bayesian approach helps detect poor underlying assumptions in learning models. For learning models well{ matched to a problem, a good correlation between generalisation ability and the Bayesian evidence is obtained.
Impact of e-Learning or Blended Learning Versus Face-to-Face Learning in Regard to Physical Examination Skills, Knowledge, and Attitudes Among Health Professions Students

This review explored research on e-learning (EL), blended learning (BL), and face-to-face learning (F2FL) as teaching strategies for physical examination (PE) in regard to skill, attitude, and knowledge outcomes of students and trainees in the health professions. A search was performed of CINAHL, PubMed, and ProQuest databases; 9 studies were reviewed. Findings revealed EL or BL compared with F2FL may be equally or more effective for PE skill acquisition. However, the results were inconsistent regarding the effectiveness of various teaching platforms on the PE user attitude and knowledge outcomes. Further research is needed to identify the best approaches to teach PE in dietetics education.