Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A User Perception--Based Approach to Create Smiling Embodied Conversational Agents

In order to improve the social capabilities of embodied conversational agents, we propose a computational model to enable agents to automatically select and display appropriate smiling behavior during human--machine interaction. A smile may convey different communicative intentions depending on subtle characteristics of the facial expression and contextual cues. To construct such a model, as a first step, we explore the morphological and dynamic characteristics of different types of smiles (polite, amused, and embarrassed smiles) that an embodied conversational agent may display. The resulting lexicon of smiles is based on a corpus of virtual agents’ smiles directly created by users and analyzed through a machine-learning technique. Moreover, during an interaction, a smiling expression impacts on the observer’s perception of the interpersonal stance of the speaker. As a second step, we propose a probabilistic model to automatically compute the user’s potential perception of the embodied conversational agent’s social stance depending on its smiling behavior and on its physical appearance. This model, based on a corpus of users’ perceptions of smiling and nonsmiling virtual agents, enables a virtual agent to determine the appropriate smiling behavior to adopt given the interpersonal stance it wants to express. An experiment using real human--virtual agent interaction provided some validation of the proposed model.
Peer-to-Peer Rental Markets in the Sharing Economy

To investigate whether peer-to-peer rental markets for durable goods are welfare-improving, we develop a new dynamic model of such markets in which users with heterogeneous utilization rates may also trade in secondary markets. We calibrate our model with US automobile industry data and transaction-level data from Getaround, a large peer-to-peer car rental marketplace. Counterfactual analyses illustrate significant shifts away from asset ownership as marketplace access grows. Used-good prices fall and replacement rates rise, while gains in consumer surplus range from 0.8% to 6.6%. The changes in consumption mix and the surplus increases are significantly more pronounced for below-median income consumers.
Statistical analysis of native contact formation in the folding of designed model proteins

The time evolution of the formation probability of native bonds has been studied for designed sequences which fold fast into the native conformation. From this analysis a clear hierarchy of bonds emerge: (a) local, fast forming highly stable native bonds built by some of the most strongly interacting amino acids of the protein; (b) nonlocal bonds formed late in the folding process, in coincidence with the folding nucleus, and involving essentially the same strongly interacting amino acids already participating in the fast bonds; (c) the rest of the native bonds whose behavior is subordinated, to a large extent, to that of the strong local and nonlocal native contacts.
Political Institutions and Lesbian and Gay Rights in the United States and Canada

1. The Comparative Politics of Lesbian and Gay Rights 2. Starting Points, 1969-1980 3. Bowers and the Charter, 1980-1986 4. Discrimination, from Romer to Vriend, 1986-2000 5. The Emergence of Same Sex Marriage, 1991-1999 6. Policy Divergence and Policy Diffusion: Same-Sex Marriage in the 2000s 7. Conclusions: Historical Institutionalism and Lesbian and Gay Rights
Dissent in Iberia: The ideal points of justices on the Spanish and Portuguese Constitutional Tribunals

In this article, the non-unanimous decisions of the Portuguese and Spanish Constitutional Tribunals for the periods 1989–2009 and 2000–2009 are analysed. It is shown that judicial dissent can be predicted moderately well on the basis of judicial ideal points along a single dimension. This dimension is equivalent to the left–right cleavage in both Portugal and Spain. The characteristics of the recovered dimension are demonstrated by analysing both the properties of the cases and the properties of the justices who decided them.
The accuracy of pre-tender building price forecasts: An analysis of USA data

One of the most important aspects of the construction procurement process is the management of client (owner) expenditure. For client expenditure management, risk analysis demands good estimates of the range of possible expenditures likely to occur and their probability of occurrence, while risk management is aided by reducing the range of possibilities. This paper describes the analysis of a new and updated data set of the pre-tender estimating performance of a USA consulting organisation. It is shown that, with a coefficient of variation of 7.82%, the organisation continues to be the leading non-contractor in the field. The analysis then continues to seek a means of improving the estimating performance further by the empirical identification of factors influencing forecasting accuracy. The result of this is to show that, after partialling out the effects of confounding variables, year by year changes account for all the systematic errors that could be detected. These changes are then shown to be significantly correlated with the USA annual inflation rate and a regression model is used to examine the possible effects of adjusting for this in the estimation process.
Effect of clipping interval and nitrogen fertilisation on oxalate content in pot-grown napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum)

Tropical grasses sometimes contain oxalate in suffi cient concentrations to induce calcium defi ciency and toxicity in grazing animals. This pot study was undertaken to investigate the effects of clipping interval and N fertilisation on the oxalate concentrations in napier grass. Plants were treated with 2 rates (5 and 30 g/m 2 ) of N fertiliser (as urea) and harvested at 3 clipping intervals (2, 4 and 8 weeks). At all clipping intervals, both forage dry matter yield and crude protein concentration in the forage were greater (P 0.05) by level of N fertiliser applied. These results suggest that N fertilisation using urea at the levels we used will not result in elevated oxalate levels in napier grass. Harvesting at 8-weekly intervals will lower oxalate concentrations without resulting in low CP levels, provided moderate N fertiliser rates are used.
Chemical composition of red horizontal branch stars in the thick disk of the Galaxy

High-resolution spectra of 13 core helium-burning stars in the thick disk of the Galaxy have been ob- tained with the SOFIN spectrograph on the Nordic Optical Telescope to investigate abundances of up to 22 chem- ical elements. Abundances of carbon were studied using the C2 Swan (0, 1) band head at 5635.5 A. The wave- length interval 7980{8130 A with strong CN features was analysed in order to determine nitrogen abundances and 12 C= 13 C isotope ratios. The oxygen abundances were determined from the (O i) line at 6300 A. Abundances in the investigated stars suggest that carbon is depleted by about 0.3 dex, nitrogen is enhanced by more than 0.4 dex and oxygen is unaltered. The 12 C= 13 C ratios are lowered and lie between values 3 and 7 which is in agreement with \cool bottom processing" predictions (Boothroyd & Sackmann 1999). The C/N ratios in the investigated stars are lowered to values between 0.7 and 1.2 which is less than present day theoretical predictions and call for further studies of stellar mixing processes. Abundance ratios of O, Mg, Eu and other heavy chemical elements to iron in the investigated stars show a pattern characteristic of thick disk stars. The results provide evidence that the thick disk population has a distinct chemical history from the thin disk. The onset of the bulk of SN Ia is suggested to appear at (Fe/H) 0: 6d ex.
Population Status of a Cryptic Top Predator: An Island-Wide Assessment of Tigers in Sumatran Rainforests

Large carnivores living in tropical rainforests are under immense pressure from the rapid conversion of their habitat. In response, millions of dollars are spent on conserving these species. However, the cost-effectiveness of such investments is poorly understood and this is largely because the requisite population estimates are difficult to achieve at appropriate spatial scales for these secretive species. Here, we apply a robust detection/non-detection sampling technique to produce the first reliable population metric (occupancy) for a critically endangered large carnivore; the Sumatran tiger (Panthera tigris sumatrae). From 2007–2009, seven landscapes were surveyed through 13,511 km of transects in 394 grid cells (17×17 km). Tiger sign was detected in 206 cells, producing a naive estimate of 0.52. However, after controlling for an unequal detection probability (where p = 0.13±0.017; ±S.E.), the estimated tiger occupancy was 0.72±0.048. Whilst the Sumatra-wide survey results gives cause for optimism, a significant negative correlation between occupancy and recent deforestation was found. For example, the Northern Riau landscape had an average deforestation rate of 9.8%/yr and by far the lowest occupancy (0.33±0.055). Our results highlight the key tiger areas in need of protection and have led to one area (Leuser-Ulu Masen) being upgraded as a ‘global priority’ for wild tiger conservation. However, Sumatra has one of the highest global deforestation rates and the two largest tiger landscapes identified in this study will become highly fragmented if their respective proposed roads networks are approved. Thus, it is vital that the Indonesian government tackles these threats, e.g. through improved land-use planning, if it is to succeed in meeting its ambitious National Tiger Recovery Plan targets of doubling the number of Sumatran tigers by 2022.
A pilot study of cognitive training with and without transcranial direct current stimulation to improve cognition in older persons with HIV-related cognitive impairment

Background In spite of treatment advances, HIV infection is associated with cognitive deficits. This is even more important as many persons with HIV infection age and experience age-related cognitive impairments. Both computer-based cognitive training and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) have shown promise as interventions to improve cognitive function. In this study, we investigate the acceptability and efficacy of cognitive training with and without tDCS in older persons with HIV. Patients and methods In this single-blind randomized study, participants were 14 individuals of whom 11 completed study procedures (mean age =51.5 years; nine men and two women) with HIV-related mild neurocognitive disorder. Participants completed a battery of neuropsychological and self-report measures and then six 20-minute cognitive training sessions while receiving either active or sham anodal tDCS over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. After training, participants completed the same measures. Success of the blind and participant reactions were assessed during a final interview. Assessments were completed by an assessor blind to treatment assignment. Pre- and post-training changes were evaluated via analysis of covariance yielding estimates of effect size. Results All participants believed that they had been assigned to active treatment; nine of the 11 believed that the intervention had improved their cognitive functioning. Both participants who felt the intervention was ineffective were assigned to the sham condition. None of the planned tested interactions of time with treatment was significant, but 12 of 13 favored tDCS (P=0.08). All participants indicated that they would participate in similar studies in the future. Conclusion Results show that both cognitive training via computer game playing and tDCS were well accepted by older persons with HIV infection. Results are suggestive that tDCS may improve cognitive function in persons with HIV infection. Further study of tDCS as an intervention for HIV-related cognitive dysfunction is warranted.
Needs‐Based Targeting or Favoritism? The Regional Allocation of Multilateral Aid within Recipient Countries

type="main"> The regional allocation of aid within recipient countries has been largely ignored. We use geocoded data on the location of aid projects financed by the World Bank and the African Development Bank within a sample of 27 recipient countries to assess the claim of donors that their aid targets needy population segments. We also assess whether political leaders in these countries direct aid funds to their home region. We do not find that the multilateral institutions take regional needs into account. Instead, favoritism appears to play an important role for location choices, in particular for physical infrastructure projects.
Update on the management of cirrhosis – focus on cost-effective preventative strategies

Cirrhosis is a chronic liver disease stage that encompasses a variety of etiologies resulting in liver damage. This damage may induce secondary complications such as portal hypertension, esophageal variceal bleeding, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, and hepatic encephalopathy. Screening for and management of these complications incurs substantial health care costs; thus, determining the most economical and beneficial treatment strategies is essential. This article reviews the economic impact of a variety of prophylactic and treatment regimens employed for cirrhosis-related complications. Prophylactic use of β-adrenergic blockers for portal hypertension and variceal bleeding appears to be cost-effective, but the most economical regimen for treatment of initial bleeding is unclear given that cost comparisons of pharmacologic and surgical regimens are lacking. In contrast, prophylaxis for spontaneous bacterial peritonitis cannot be recommended. Standard therapy for spontaneous bacterial peritonitis includes antibiotics, and the overall economic impact of these medications depends largely on their direct cost. However, the potential development of bacterial antibiotic resistance and resulting clinical failure should also be considered. Nonabsorbable disaccharides are standard therapies for hepatic encephalopathy; however, given their questionable efficacy, the nonsystemic antibiotic rifaximin may be a more cost-effective, long-term treatment for hepatic encephalopathy, despite its increased direct cost, because of its demonstrated efficacy and prevention of hospitalization. Further studies evaluating the cost burden of cirrhosis and cirrhosis-related complications, including screening costs, the cost of treatment and maintenance therapy, conveyance to liver transplantation, liver transplantation success, and health-related quality of life after transplantation, are essential for evaluation of the economic burden of hepatic encephalopathy and all cirrhosis-related complications.
Mixed Sex Effects on the Second‐to‐Fourth Digit Ratio of Túngara Frogs (Engystomops pustulosus) and Cane Toads (Rhinella marina)

Sexual dimorphism in the ratio of digit lengths has been correlated to behavioral, physiological, and morphological traits in a variety of taxa. While sexual dimorphism in the second‐to‐fourth digit length ratio (2D:4D) is a well‐established indicator of prenatal androgen exposure in mammals, investigations into the patterns of 2D:4D and the drivers of such variation in other taxa are lacking. We used linear mixed effects models to gain a mechanistic understanding of the factors that drive variation in the scaling relationship between the lengths of the second and fourth digits in two species of anurans: túngara frogs (Engystomops pustulosus) and cane toads (Rhinella marina). We found evidence for sexual dimorphism of the 2D:4D scaling relationship on the front feet of túngara frogs, with female frogs having a larger ratio than males resulting from a relatively longer second digit on females. To our knowledge, this mammal‐like pattern of sex differences in digit ratio has not yet been reported for anurans. However, given the reduced number of digits on the front feet of anurans, and uncertainty about which digit was lost during evolutionary history, this apparent sexual dimorphism in the front feet of túngara frogs should be treated with caution. In contrast, we found no evidence of sexual dimorphism in 2D:4D on either the front or rear feet of cane toads. This study highlights ambiguities in 2D:4D across taxa and suggests that further research is needed to evaluate the effect of androgens on 2D:4D in animals other than placental mammals. Anat Rec, 299:421–427, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Estimating teacher effect using hierarchical linear modelling

This paper reports a study addressing how teacher effectiveness influences student outcomes in Polish Lower Secondary schools. Data from a Polish nationwide lower secondary school study were analysed. Data included 3883 pupils in 246 classes, in 137 schools with 202 maths teachers and 4119 pupils in 260 classes, in 143 schools with 215 language teachers. Variance of exam scores explained by teacher effect was 12% (maths) and 8% (language skills). Controlling for prior achievement, intelligence and student family background, teacher effects were 5% (maths) and 4% (language skills). Until now there has been no consensus about which teacher characteristics could explain variance in their effectiveness. The scale of “teacher authority/classroom management” explains 91% of exam scores in maths and 81% in language skills, when controlling for prior student achievement, intelligence, student family background and school location.
International Studies in Comparative Banking: A Survey of Recent Developments

This paper provides a comprehensive survey of some 170 international comparative banking studies. It summarizes the methodology, data sources and results. The aim is to identify research gaps and trends. Central themes include: Competition, contestability, efficiency, performance, regulation, financial crises, structure, restructuring, mergers and acquisitions, and risk. Opportunities for future research include replication studies outside the European region especially for developing nations. Future deregulation of banking services will provide prospects to study changes in operating conditions before or after effective dates. Technology and internet banking and its impact on banking are likewise growth areas with surprising little work conducted on the latter. In addition, improved methodologies and better data sources suggest revisiting much of the previous literature for revalidation.
Measuring Users' Satisfaction with Malaysia's Electronic Government Systems

The research seeks to measure users' satisfaction and identify the contributors of satisfaction. We used the end-user computing satisfaction (EUCS) model as the a priori model to measure internal end-users' satisfaction with Malaysia's electronic government systems. We gathered data from internal end-users at the level of officers and directors of Malaysia's electronic government systems. Using the structural equation modeling approach, our results show that all five first-order factors, content, accuracy, timeliness, format and ease of use, explain the contributors of satisfaction. Further, our studies provide the evidence that in Malaysia's electronic government context, end-users' satisfaction priorities are timeliness, content and accuracy. This paper makes a significant contribution by applying the Information Systems body of knowledge to measure users' satisfaction with Malaysia's electronic government systems, test and validate the EUCS model in the context of Malaysia's electronic government environment. The paper has enhanced our understanding of users' demands for interactions with business, citizens and other government personnel in the Malaysian electronic government environment.
Aspects of language contact

The objective of this paper is to report on a research project investigating the language behaviour of Sotho English bilinguals at a South African university. Sotho is used here as an umbrella term to refer to the Sotho group of languages: Sesotho (Southern Sotho), Sesotho sa Leboa (Nothern Sotho) and Setswana. The main aim of the research is to examine the linguistic constraints and social motivations for codeswitching. The research will include distinctions between codeswitching. codemixing and borrowing. At a general level the concept of language contact is the superordinate linguistic and philosophical category underpinning this research. Theoretically the research uses a number of approaches to describe and explain language contact: structuralist, interactionalist and psycho-social approaches, although the dominant framework used here is the structuralist one. Sociologically, the research demonstrates that codeswitching, codemixing and borrowing constitute a variety in which speakers exhibit differing degrees of structured abilities and may be unmarked or marked depending on the extent to which it reinforces or violates community norms.
Propagation of whistler-mode chorus to low altitudes: divergent ray trajectories and ground accessibility

Abstract. We investigate the ray trajectories of nonductedly propagating lower-band chorus waves with respect to their initial angle θ0, between the wave vector and ambient magnetic field. Although we consider a wide range of initial angles θ0, in order to be consistent with recent satellite observations, we pay special attention to the intervals of initial angles θ0, for which the waves propagate along the field lines in the source region, i.e. we mainly focus on waves generated with t thus, a part of the energy may leak to the ground at higher altitudes where the field lines have a nearly vertical direction. The waves generated with different initial angles are reflected. A small variation of the initial wave normal angle thus very dramatically changes the behaviour of the resulting ray. Although our approach is rather theoretical, based on the ray tracing simulation, we show that the initial angle θ0 of the waves reaching the ionosphere (possibly ground) is surprisingly close - differs just by several degrees from the initial angles which fits the observation of magnetospherically reflected chorus revealed by CLUSTER satellites. We also mention observations of diverging trajectories on low altitude satellites.
Position estimation with a low-cost inertial measurement unit

In this paper the Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) included inside the Oculus Rift virtual reality headset is considered for head position tracking. While the Oculus is capable of mapping rotational movement to a virtual scene, recovering translational movement is not possible by default. In this study, we extract position data using a different approach for real-time position tracking with double integration, as well as a new method for gravity compensation for accelerometers with different axis calibrations. The proposed tracking system is portable, simple and does not require a controlled environment.
Attouch-Wets convergence and Kuratowski convergence on compact sets

Let $X$ be a locally connected, $b$-compact metric space and $E$ a closed subset of $X$. Let $\Bbb G$ be the space of all continuous real-valued functions defined on some closed subsets of $E$. We prove the equivalence of the ${\tau_{_{a\! w}}}$ and ${\tau^c_{_{\! K}}}$ topologies on $\Bbb G$, where $\tau_{_{a\! w}}$ is the so called {\sl Attouch-Wets\/} topology, defined in terms of uniform convergence of distance functionals, and ${\tau^c_{_{\! K}}}$ is the topology of Kuratowski convergence on compacta.