Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Do low corporate income tax rates attract FDI? – Evidence from Central- and East European countries

Fifty six bilateral country relationships combining 7 home countries from the EU and the US, and 8 Central and East European host countries (CEECs) of foreign direct investment (FDI) from 1995-2003 are used in a panel gravity-model setting to estimate the role of taxation as a determinant of FDI. While gravity variables explain most of the variation of FDI inflows, the bilateral effective average tax rate (beatr) is roughly equally important to other cost-related factors. The semi-elasticity of FDI with respect to taxes is about -4.3. This value is above those of earlier studies in absolute terms and can partly be attributed to using the beatr instead of the statutory tax rate. Our results indicate that tax-lowering strategies of CEEC governments seem to have an important impact on foreign firms location decisions.
"Advances in neuroimaging and pharmacology: an example using nicotine"

The outline of the dissertation consists of four parts. First, the general framework about the recent impact that neuroimaging is having with respect to CNS pharmacology will be presented (Chapter 1). Subsequently, an EEG experiment based on the administration of nicotine during a resting-state task in healthy non-smokers will be introduced. The research question regarded whether nicotine impacts vigilance. The same data set and the same within-subject experimental design were used for conducting three different analyses. Each method of each analysis was considered appropriate for detecting vigilance modulations in the brain. In Chapter 2, the results of the first analysis based on source reconstruction (Current Source Density, CSD) in the whole-brain will be shown. In Chapter 3 two further analyses were based on the extraction of time-series. There it will be shown the results of these last two analyses: connectivity analysis by renormalized Partial Directed Coherence (rPDC); phase-amplitude coupling analysis by Mean Resultant Vector Length (VL). In the final chapter, the results of the three analyses will be compared. It will be emphasized that all three results converged in the finding that nicotine significantly increased vigilance. It will then be suggested that nicotine might unravel its cognitive-enhancing properties through its ability to counteract drowsiness. In conclusion, the present dissertation aims to show recent progress in the field of CNS pharmacology by using state-of-the-art non-invasive neuroimaging techniques and by using nicotine as a pharmacological probe in healthy subjects.
Multiple Scattering in Clumpy Media. II. Galactic Environments

We present and discuss the results of new multiple-scattering radiative transfer calculations for three representative types of galactic environments, filled with either homogeneous or two-phase clumpy dust distributions. Extinction and scattering properties for two types of interstellar dust, similar to those found in the average diffuse medium of the Milky Way (MW) and the Bar of the Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC), are considered. The wavelength coverage extends from 1000 to 30000 Å, with particular emphasis on the rest-frame UV. This makes these models especially applicable to starburst galaxies and Lyman-break galaxy samples. The examination of the models concentrates on the study of UV/visual/near-IR reddening effects, the wavelength dependence of attenuation, and on the changes that arise from the transition from homogeneous to clumpy dust distributions in different star/dust geometries. Embedded dust, especially when clumpy, leads to saturation at fairly low reddening values with correspondingly gray attenuation functions. This makes the assessment of the attenuation of the far-UV flux from starburst galaxies difficult, if only UV/visual/near-IR data are available. Existing data for UV-selected starburst galaxies indicate a range of UV attenuation factors of 0-150. Our models reproduce the "Calzetti Attenuation Law," provided one adopts SMC-type dust and a clumpy shell-type dust distribution surrounding the starbursts. The average far-UV attenuation factor for the Calzetti sample is found to be 7.4. The only relatively reliable measure for the UV attenuation factor for single galaxies was found in the ratio of the integrated far-IR flux to the far-UV flux, measured near 1600 Å, requiring the measurement of the entire spectral energy distribution of galaxies.
Cognitive theory of multimedia learning and learning videos design: the redundancy principle

This paper presents an ongoing research project regarding the design of learning videos in relation to Mayer's Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning (CTML) and more specifically to the Redundancy Principle (RP). Learning videos have been proved an efficient teaching tool. However poorly designed videos could easily fail if they trigger the RP. The RP is activated when the information parsed through the visual channel consists of animation and on-screen text. This paper presents an experiment that explores the way the RP is related to learning videos and how the type of on-screen visual aid (text, call-outs) affects learners' comprehension. It also discusses preliminary results that derived from a pilot study. The presented work is part of a bigger project that explores several aspects of CTML in relation to learning videos design.
New reducible five-brane solutions in M-theory

We construct new M-theory solutions of M5 branes that are a realization of the fully localized ten dimensional NS5/D6 and NS5/D5 brane intersections. These solutions are obtained by embedding self-dual geometries lifted to M-theory. We reduce these solutions down to ten dimensions, obtaining new D-brane systems in type IIA/IIB supergravity. The worldvolume theories of the NS5-branes are new non-local, non-gravitational, six dimensional, T-dual little string theories with eight supersymmetries.
CONTEXT OF ARGUMENTATION WITH A ROLE-PLAYING BOARD GAME - AN ACTIVITY THEORY PERSPECTIVE

The study of technology-supported argumentation has foregrounded its epistemic aspect in terms of processes of reasoning. We report a qualitative case study that takes a different line of inquiry, centered on the question: How might the context of argumentation be characterized from the perspective of Activity Theory? We posit Activity Theory (AT) as a potential interpretive framework, and use it to characterize the context of argumentation mediated by a role-playing board-game. Emergent findings suggest that argumentation was situated in a dialogic, participatory, collaborative, problem-solving activity. These findings are further synthesized and discussed to propose that the context of argumentation may be characterized as a game-based problem-solving context. This conceptualization is based on these preliminary claims: [1] Problems were created through the design of the game or arose due to cultural factors that influenced how players responded to the game. [2] There were three modes of problem-solving: collaboration, dialogic argumentation and role-playing. For the former two especially, distinct patterns are observed that suggest that they constitute cultural practices. [3] Emergent selves in terms of role-identities has three aspects: agency, social and ideology. These role-identities potentially constitute epistemic frames for argumentation. In conclusion, this paper suggests an alternative view of the interactions implicated in argumentation as practice inflected in praxis.
Transition dynamics and selection of the distinct S-DNA and strand unpeeling modes of double helix overstretching

Recent studies have revealed two distinct pathways for the DNA overstretching transition near 65 pN: ‘unpeeling’ of one strand from the other, and a transition from B-DNA to an elongated double-stranded ‘S-DNA’ form. However, basic questions concerning the dynamics of these transitions, relative stability of the two competing overstretched states, and effects of nicks and free DNA ends on overstretching, remain open. In this study we report that: (i) stepwise extension changes caused by sequence-defined barriers occur during the strand-unpeeling transition, whereas rapid, sequence-independent extension fluctuations occur during the B to S transition; (ii) the secondary transition that often occurs following the overstretching transition is strand-unpeeling, during which the extension increases by 0.01–0.02 nm per base pair of S-DNA converted to single-stranded DNA at forces between 75 and 110 pN; (iii) even in the presence of nicks or free ends, S-DNA can be stable under physiological solution conditions; (iv) distribution of small GC-rich islands in a large DNA plays a key role in determining the transition pathways; and (v) in the absence of nicks or free ends, torsion-unconstrained DNA undergoes the overstretching transition via creation of S-DNA. Our study provides a new, high-resolution understanding of the competition between unpeeling and formation of S-DNA.
Modeling a Demonstration Effect: The Case of Spectators' Experiences at 2015 Pan Am Games' Track Cycling Competitions

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to identify cognitive and affective mechanisms by which the experience of live sport spectating might inspire new sport participation. A conceptual model of demonstration effects that explored relationships among cognitive dimensions of spectators' consumptive experiences (i.e., fantasy, flow, evaluation, aesthetics and physical attractiveness), an affective state of inspiration, and intention to try a sport on display was tested. Data were collected from spectators attending 2015 Pan Am Games track cycling competitions through a written questionnaire. Cognitive dimensions were all positively related to feelings of being inspired while watching the event. Feelings of being inspired while watching the event, in turn, had a positive effect on intention to try the sport of track cycling. An affective state of inspiration also mediated relationships between each cognitive dimension of sport event performance consumption and intention. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
The influence of substitutions on elite soccer teams’ performance

The aim of the present study was to identify the effects of substitutions on soccer team’s performance with regard to match conditions, positional roles and the differences amongst team outputs of three variables: ball possession, shots and ball regains. The sample composed of 292 substitutions obtained from 50 elite soccer games. Variables studied were: minute of substitution, substitution number, yellow card, player in and player out playing positions, ball possession percentage, shots on target, balls regained, and situational variables (match-status, quality of opposition, match location and match outcome). The results showed that: (i) most of the first and second substitutions occurred during the 61 to 90 minute period, while the third substitution occurred predominantly during the 76 to 90 minutes period. When the teams were losing they made the substitutions before than when drawing or winning and home teams made the substitutions before than the away teams. The majority of the substitutions involved midfield (57.1%) and forwards (27.1%) players; (ii) substitution strategies depend on contextual-related variables: the better the quality of opposing team the later the substitutions will take place; and (iii) the coaches’ substitution time strategies can alter the playing tactics and final outcome in the match. The present study provides to the coaches new information on substitutions patterns that can be easily integrated into their overall coaching strategy.
Comparison of Multiparametric MRI Scoring Systems and the Impact on Cancer Detection in Patients Undergoing MR US Fusion Guided Prostate Biopsies

Introduction Multiple scoring systems have been proposed for prostate MRI reporting. We sought to review the clinical impact of the new Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System v2 (PI-RADS) and compare those results to our proposed Simplified Qualitative System (SQS) score with respect to detection of prostate cancers and clinically significant prostate cancers. Methods All patients who underwent multiparametric prostate MRI (mpMRI) had their images interpreted using PI-RADS v1 and SQS score. PI-RADS v2 was calculated from prospectively collected data points. Patients with positive mpMRIs were then referred by their urologists for enrollment in an IRB-approved prospective phase III trial of mpMRI-Ultrasound (MR/TRUS) fusion biopsy of suspicious lesions. Standard 12-core biopsy was performed at the same setting. Clinical data were collected prospectively. Results 1060 patients were imaged using mpMRI at our institution during the study period. 341 participants were then referred to the trial. 312 participants underwent MR/TRUS fusion biopsy of 452 lesions and were included in the analysis. 202 participants had biopsy-proven cancer (64.7%) and 206 (45.6%) lesions were positive for cancer. Distribution of cancer detected at each score produced a Gaussian distribution for SQS while PI-RADS demonstrates a negatively skewed curve with 82.1% of cases being scored as a 4 or 5. Patient-level data demonstrated AUC of 0.702 (95% CI 0.65 to 0.73) for PI-RADS and 0.762 (95% CI 0.72 to 0.81) for SQS (p< 0.0001) with respect to the detection of prostate cancer. The analysis for clinically significant prostate cancer at a per lesion level resulted in an AUC of 0.725 (95% CI 0.69 to 0.76) and 0.829 (95% CI 0.79 to 0.87) for the PI-RADS and SQS score, respectively (p< 0.0001). Conclusions mpMRI is a useful tool in the workup of patients at risk for prostate cancer, and serves as a platform to guide further evaluation with MR/TRUS fusion biopsy. SQS score provided a more normal distribution of scores and yielded a higher AUC than PI-RADS v2. However until our findings are validated, we recommend reporting of detailed sequence-specific findings. This will allow for prospectively collected data to be utilized in determining the impact of ongoing changes to these scoring systems as our understanding of mpMRI interpretation evolves.
Morphologically Homogeneous Red Blood Cells Present a Heterogeneous Response to Hormonal Stimulation

Red blood cells (RBCs) are among the most intensively studied cells in natural history, elucidating numerous principles and ground-breaking knowledge in cell biology. Morphologically, RBCs are largely homogeneous, and most of the functional studies have been performed on large populations of cells, masking putative cellular variations. We studied human and mouse RBCs by live-cell video imaging, which allowed single cells to be followed over time. In particular we analysed functional responses to hormonal stimulation with lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), a signalling molecule occurring in blood plasma, with the Ca2+ sensor Fluo-4. Additionally, we developed an approach for analysing the Ca2+ responses of RBCs that allowed the quantitative characterization of single-cell signals. In RBCs, the LPA-induced Ca2+ influx showed substantial diversity in both kinetics and amplitude. Also the age-classification was determined for each particular RBC and consecutively analysed. While reticulocytes lack a Ca2+ response to LPA stimulation, old RBCs approaching clearance generated robust LPA-induced signals, which still displayed broad heterogeneity. Observing phospatidylserine exposure as an effector mechanism of intracellular Ca2+ revealed an even increased heterogeneity of RBC responses. The functional diversity of RBCs needs to be taken into account in future studies, which will increasingly require single-cell analysis approaches. The identified heterogeneity in RBC responses is important for the basic understanding of RBC signalling and their contribution to numerous diseases, especially with respect to Ca2+ influx and the associated pro-thrombotic activity.
KEPUASAN HIDUP MAHASISWA TINGKAT PERTAMA: KAITANNYA DENGAN KARAKTER MAHASISWA DAN GAYA PENGASUHAN ORANG TUA

The first-grade college students who were living in the dormitory face transitional period toward the adult period. Therefore, it needed the ability to measure his life satisfaction. This study aimed 1) to analyze the differences between maternal and paternal parenting styles; 2) to analyze the influence of college student characteristic, family characteristic and parenting style toward college student character; and 3) to analyze the influence of college student characteristic, family characteristic, parenting style, and character toward life satisfaction. This research was conducted in Bogor Agricultural University, Bogor City, West Java Province. The sample consists of 102 first-grade college student which selected by multistage random sampling method. Maternal and paternal parenting styles perceived by students are measured using the Parent as Social Context Questionnaire (PASCQ-final version) instrument of Skinner, Sandy, and Tatiana (2005). College student characters are measured using the Value in Action Inventory of Strengths (VIA-IS) instrument. Meanwhile, life satisfaction was measured using an instrument developed by West (2006). Independent sample t-test found that there was a significant difference between maternal and paternal parenting styles on the warmth dimension. Regression analysis found that parenting style had a significant positive effect toward college student character. Regression analysis also found that character had a significant positive effect toward life satisfaction of college student.
Calcium: Alpha-Synuclein Interactions in Alpha-Synucleinopathies

Aggregation of the pre-synaptic protein, α-synuclein (α-syn), is the key etiological factor in Parkinson's disease (PD) and other alpha-synucleinopathies, such as multiple system atrophy (MSA) and Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB). Various triggers for pathological α-syn aggregation have been elucidated, including post-translational modifications, oxidative stress, and binding of metal ions, such as calcium. Raised neuronal calcium levels in PD may occur due to mitochondrial dysfunction and/or may relate to calcium channel dysregulation or the reduced expression of the neuronal calcium buffering protein, calbindin-D28k. Recent results on human tissue and a mouse oxidative stress model show that neuronal calbindin-D28k expression excludes α-syn inclusion bodies. Previously, cell culture model studies have shown that transient increases of intracellular free Ca(II), such as by opening of the voltage-gated plasma calcium channels, could induce cytoplasmic aggregates of α-syn. Raised intracellular free calcium and oxidative stress also act cooperatively to promote α-syn aggregation. The association between raised neuronal calcium, α-syn aggregation, oxidative stress, and neurotoxicity is reviewed in the context of neurodegenerative α-syn disease and potential mechanism-based therapies.
Preprocessors from an abstract point of view

Paper reprinted from ICSM '96. It is well known that the extensive use of preprocessors can lead to serious maintenance problems. However these tools are still heavily used by developers and maintainers to implement software variants. Without adequate tools, understanding complex preprocessor files is a really tedious task. Problems are difficult to formulate and seem very specific. This paper shows that considering preprocessors from an abstract point of view can lead to surprising results. The use of abstractions considerably increases problem comprehension and solutions can be derived directly from existing techniques like slicing, program specialization or interprocedural data flow analysis. The preprocessor of the C language (CPP), is taken as a case study, and the functionalities of Champollion/APP, a tool for preprocessor maintenance, are briefly described.
When using knowledge can hurt performance: the value of organizational capabilities in a management consulting company

This paper explores the possibility that utilizing the firm's knowledge resources to complete important tasks can backfire and undermine competitive performance. Drawing on organizational capabilities and knowledge-sharing research, we develop a situated performance view that holds that the value of obtaining and using knowledge within a firm depends on the task situation. Using a data set of 182 sales proposals for client work in a management consulting company, we show that sales teams that had varying needs to learn and differentiate themselves from competitors derived different levels of value from obtaining and using electronic documents and advice from colleagues. Highly experienced teams were more likely than inexperienced teams to lose the sales bids if they utilized such knowledge. Teams that had a high need to differentiate themselves from competitors also had a lower chance of winning if they utilized electronic documents. There were situations, however, where teams performed better if they utilized the firm's knowledge resources. These results suggest that competitive performance depends not on how much firms know but on how they use what they know. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Global Distribution and Evolutionary History of Enterovirus D68, with Emphasis on the 2014 Outbreak in Ontario, Canada

Despite its first appearance in 1962, human enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) has been recognized as an emerging respiratory pathogen in the last decade when it caused outbreaks and clusters in several countries including Japan, the Philippines, and the Netherlands. The most recent and largest outbreak of EV-D68 associated with severe respiratory illness took place in North America between August 2014 and January 2015. Between September 1 and October 31 2014, EV-D68 infection was laboratory confirmed among 153/907 (16.9%) persons tested for the virus in Ontario, Canada, using real time RT-PCR and subsequent genotyping by sequencing of partial VP1 gene. In order to understand the evolutionary history of the 2014 North American EV-D68 outbreak, we conducted phylogenetic and phylodynamic analyses using available partial VP1 genes (n = 469) and NCBI available whole genome sequences (WGS) (n = 38). The global EV-D68 phylogenetic tree (n = 469) reconfirms the divergence of three distinct clades A, B, and C from the prototype EV-D68 Fermon strain as previously documented. Two sub-clades (B1 and B2) were identified, with most 2014 EV-D68 outbreak strains belonging to sub-cluster B2b2 (one of the two emerging clusters within sub-clade B2), with two signature substitutions T650A and M700V in BC and DE loops of VP1 gene, respectively. The close homology between WGS of strains from Ontario (n = 2) and USA (n = 21) in the recent EV-D68 outbreak suggests genetic relatedness and also a common source for the outbreak. The time of most recent common ancestor of EV-D68 and the 2014 EV-D68 outbreak strain suggest that the viruses possibly emerged during 1960–1961 and 2012–2013, respectively. We observed lower mean evolutionary rates of global EV-D68 using WGS data than estimated with partial VP1 gene sequences. Based on WGS data, the estimated mean rate of evolution of the EV-D68 B2b cluster was 9.75 × 10-3 substitutions/site/year (95% BCI 4.11 × 10-3 to 16 × 10-3).