Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
An investigation of the intention to share media files over peer-to-peer networks

File-sharing over peer-to-peer (P2P) networks once consisted largely of music files, which, when shared, were infringements of copyrights. For this reason, studies of the behavioural intentions (BIs) to share files over P2P networks have often focused on the piracy of music files. However, with improved technology and increased bandwidth, large files such as videos are routinely shared. As industry-led efforts may have had some success stemming illegal file-sharing, and as new and legitimate applications of P2P file-sharing are emerging, it is important to include media files of all types and consider file-sharing that is both legitimate and that which constitutes piracy within the scope of our study. To study the intention to share media files over P2P networks, we evaluate two alternative models. The theory of planned behaviour (TPB) is the underlying theory for both models, one of which is based on the original TPB and one on the decomposed TPB. We test both models using previously validated instruments and find that both models can explain a significant portion of the variance in the intentions to share media files over P2P networks. However, the model based on the decomposed TPB can explain more of the variance. A second advantage of this model is that it can be more readily translated to managerial actions, which are also explored.
Output, Stock Volatility, and Political Uncertainty in a Natural Experiment: Germany, 1880-1940

Why does stock volatility increase when output declines? The theory of investment under uncertainty implies that political uncertainty may simultaneously increase volatility and reduce output. Though cause and effect are typically hard to separate, the transition from Imperial to Weimar Germany offers a natural experiment because major political events left clear traces on stock prices. Current and past increases in volatility are associated with output declines, consistent with U.S. experience. However, political events are more clearly the source of volatility, and the results support the view that the relationship between volatility and output reflects the joint effects of political factors. Copyright The American Finance Association 1998.
The Effect of Refinancing Costs and Market Imperfections on the Optimal Call Strategy and the Pricing of Debt Contracts

This article, which was originally written in 1986, develops a methodology for valuing mortgage-backed securities with refinancing costs. We solve simultaneously for the valuation of the mortgage-backed security (loan) and the borrower's refinancing strategy, pricing all coupon levels simultaneously. Because the borrower may refinance his or her loan and incur costs at many times in the future, the optimal refinancing decisions arise from an optimal dynamic strategy that reflects the costs of all potential future refinancings. Though the borrower faces multiple rounds of refinancing costs, the market value of the loan cannot exceed the call price plus a single round of refinancing costs. Copyright 2005 by the American Real Estate and Urban Economics Association
Economic Determinants of Foreign Direct Investment in Less Developed Countries

This study examines the economic determinants of private foreign direct investment (FDI) by using a single-equation econometric model for 36 LDCs for the year 1983. The market size of the host country as measured by per capita GDP is found to be the most important factor in attracting FDI. The other important variables which influence FDI are found to be the cost factor (such as wage cost) and the investment climate in the host country (represented by such variables as per capita debt). The inflow of per capita public aid and economic instability, proxied by the volatility of prices, are other important factors affecting the flow of FDI. While larger market size and increased inflow of public aid attract FDI, the higher wage cost, poor investment climate, and economic instability in the host countries reduce the inflow of FDI. The model used to obtain these results is found to be structurally stable across countries.
Effect of Choto‐san, a Kampo medicine, on impairment of passive avoidance performance in senescence accelerated mouse (SAM)

Effect of Choto‐san (TJ–47), a Kampo medicine, on impairment of learning performance was evaluated by means of a step‐through passive avoidance task in SAMP8 mice, a senescence‐prone substrain. Tokishakuyaku‐san (TJ–23), another Kampo medicine, was also employed for comparison. SAMP8 mice at the age of 10–12 months showed a poorer passive avoidance response than SAMR1 mice, a senescence‐resistant substrain, in the memory‐retention test, but not in the memory‐acquisition test. Improved response in the memory‐retention test was observed in SAMP8 mice treated with TJ–47, and almost equal degree of improvement was also observed after treatment with TJ–23. These results suggest that a long‐term administration of Choto‐san could improve to some extent the impairment of memory caused by aging. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Diet quality in Canada.

BACKGROUND In addition to recommendations about the consumption of specific foods and nutriens, a measure of overall diet quality is useful. Over the years, a number of countries, but not Canada, have developed indexes to evaluate diet quality. DATA AND METHODS The American Healthy Eating Index was adapted to conform to recommendations in Canada's Food Guide. Data from 33,664 respondents to the 2004 Canadian Community Health Survey-Nutrition were used. Usual index scores were calculated with the Software for Intake Distribution Estimation program. Multiple linear regression models were used to examine associations between index scores and various characteristics, particularly the frequency of vegetable and fruit consumption. RESULTS For the population aged 2 or older, the average score on the Canadian adaptation of the Healthy Eating Index in 2004 was 58.8 out of a possible 100 points. Children aged 2 to 8 had the highest average scores (65 or more). Average scores tended to fall into early adolescence, stabiilizing around 55 at ages 14 to 30. A gradual upturn thereafter brought the average score to around 60 at age 71 or older. At all ages, women's scores exceeded those of men. The frequency of vegetable and fruit consumption was linked to index scores. INTERPRETATION The American Healthy Eating Index can be adapted to Canadian food intake recommendations. Canadian Community Health Survey questions about the frequency of vegetable and fruit consumption can be used as an approximation of diet quality.
Interaction of filling related sensation between anorectum and lower urinary tract and its impact on the sequence of their evacuation. A study in healthy volunteers

The anorectum and lower urinary tract (LUT) are closely related organs: anorectal and LUT dysfunction often occur concomitant, and therapeutic actions in one organ may influence function of the other. The aim of this study was to explore the physiologic relationship between anorectal and LUT function in healthy volunteers.
The International Business Environment: A Proposed Analytical Framework

International business environment (IBE) literature is characterised by the lack of a holistic analytical framework. Drawing on a wide range of perspectives, this study aspires to fill the lacuna by offering a holistic, dynamic analytical framework for the systematic study of the IBE. The IBE is broadly conceived as a spatial-temporally multilayered, multi-actor context imbued and stitched up with ideas, institutions and non-institutional structures wherein international business (IB) actors, activities and processes are constituted and occur. Application of the proposed framework will potentially ensure a better understanding of the IBE, support endeavours that focus attention on the IBE as an object of inquiry in its own right, and ultimately foster better managerial and public policy decision-making.
World Kidney Day 2014: increasing awareness of chronic kidney disease and aging

Implication for health policy/practice/research/medical educationIn 2014 World Kidney Day (WKD) will focus on chronic kidney disease and aging. The mission of WKD is to raise awareness so that everyone cares for their kidneys and, if appropriate, check to assess if they are at risk for kidney disease. Prevention of kidney disease, early detection, and subsequent kidney protection are critical aims for WKD.
Global Production Effects of European Integration

This paper presents a computable general equilibrium model of world trade, and applies the model to analyses of world trade and production effects of European integration. The main features of the model are: four world regions, twelve traded goods, one non-tradable aggregate in each region and three non-traded factors of production in each region. Eleven of the traded goods industries are imperfectly competitive, with differentiated products and increasing returns to scale. The model is calibrated to 1985 data, assuming that markets are segmented at the outset. Model experiments of reduced trade costs and fully integrated markets within the EC as well as between the EC and EFTA are presented. All the simulations indicate that whereas the effects for Europe and in particular the EFTA countries may be substantial, the rest of the world has little to fear from a more integrated Europe. The effects for Europe come in terms of welfare gains and structural changes towards more skill-intensive production.
Reflections on the definition, classification, and diagnostic evaluation of acute renal failure

Acuterenalfailure(ARF)isdefinedasarapid(hourstoweeks) deterioration of the glomerular filtration rate(GFR),associatedwiththeaccumulationofwastessuchasureaandcreatinine(azotemia). Oliguria(urineoutput< 400mL/d or < 20mL/h) is frequent (∼50%) but notinvariable.Acute renal failure is further characterized by suddenloss of the ability of the kidneys to concentrate urine,conserveelectrolytes,andmaintainfluidbalance.Itisafrequentclinicalproblem,particularlyintheICU,whereitissaidtooccurinanywherefrom1%to25%ofcriti-callyillpatients[1,2],dependingonthepopulationbe-ingstudiedandthecriteriausedtodefineitspresence.Furthermore,mortalityinthesepopulationsrangesfrom28%to90%[3–5]. TheimpactofARFonmorbidityandmortalityrateshasrecentlybeenreviewed[6]. Clearly,trialsofpreventionandtherapyofARFarenotcomparable because widely disparate definitions havebeen used. A standardized case definition is necessaryforcomparisonsofoutcomeacrossstudies,fordevelop-ment of prognostic scoring systems, interpretation ofnondialytic and dialytic therapeutic interventions, anddesignofmulticenterstudies.Dependingonthepopu-lation studied, the same noxious stimuli may result inimpairmentinrenalfunctionoverawiderange.
Modulating T cell responses for the treatment of psoriasis: a focus on efalizumab

An improved understanding regarding the pathophysiology of psoriasis, coupled with advances in molecular research, has prompted the development of targeted biologic treatments for patients with plaque psoriasis. T lymphocytes play an important role in initiating the immune system and the inflammatory responses that result in the development and maintenance of psoriatic plaques. Efalizumab (anti-CD11a, Raptiva™; Genentech, Inc.) is a mAb that targets the T cell adhesion molecule, leukocyte function-associated antigen-1 (LFA-1). By binding to CD11a – the α-subunit of LFA-1 – LFA-1 is prevented from binding with its ligand, intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1). This inhibits various T cell processes believed to be important in the pathogenesis of psoriasis, including T cell activation, T cell adhesion to endothelial cells and T cell migration. Clinical trials demonstrate that efalizumab, given subcutaneously once-weekly, provides clinical benefit, including improved quality of life, in patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. Efalizumab is associated with an early onset of action, with improvement noted as early as 14 days. Studies with extended treatment suggest that continuing efalizumab therapy is more beneficial in maintaining and improving responses. Relapse of psoriasis is usually seen within 60 – 70 days after discontinuation of therapy, and rebound in ~ 5% of patients (i.e., flare to > 125% of baseline) is noted. Efalizumab is associated with acute adverse events during the first and second injections, which decrease in incidence with each subsequent injection. Data indicate that efalizumab can be safely administered for extended periods of time. Given the efficacy, early onset of clinical benefit, the safety profile and the convenience of once-weekly subcutaneous home dosing, efalizumab offers an interesting new therapeutic option for the treatment of psoriasis and the potential for improved and potentially safer long-term, continuous ‘maintenance’ therapy.
Policing Protest: The Control of Mass Demonstrations in Western Democracies

The way in which police handle political demonstrations is always potentially controversial. In contemporary democracies, police departments have two different, often conflicting aims: keeping the peace and defending citizens' right to protest. This collection, the only resource to examine police interventions cross-nationally, analyzes a wide array of policing styles. Focusing on Italy, France, Germany, Great Britain, Switzerland, Spain, the United States, and South Africa, the contributors look at cultures and political power to examine the methods and the consequences of policing protest.
Evaluation of a multi‐center randomised clinical trial on prophylactic transfusion of fresh frozen plasma: implications for future trials

Prophylactic use of fresh frozen plasma (FFP) in critically ill patients with a coagulopathy is common. However, a lack of evidence of efficacy has resulted in a call for trials on the benefit of FFP in these patients. To date, conducting a trial on this subject has not been successful. Recently, a multi‐center randomised trial was stopped prematurely due to slow inclusion.
The evaluation of pneumomediastinum in blunt trauma patients.

BACKGROUND Pneumomediastinum occurs in up to 10% of patients with blunt thoracic and cervical trauma. Mandatory evaluation of all patients with bronchoscopy and esophageal imaging to exclude a major injury has been recommended. There is little data on the safety or efficacy of this approach. We evaluated the incidence of major injuries associated with pneumomediastinum, the accuracy of diagnostic modalities, and the results of observation versus aggressive evaluation. METHODS Medical records of all blunt trauma patients diagnosed with pneumomediastinum and/or aerodigestive tract injury between 1998 and 2005 were reviewed. The patient's hospital course was reviewed for demographic data, admission diagnoses, diagnostic imaging and procedures, operations, missed injuries, length of stay, and mortality. RESULTS The review identified a total of 136 patients with pneumomediastinum, and an additional 22 patients with thoracic aerodigestive tract injuries but without pneumomediastinum. Only patients with pneumomediastinum were considered in subsequent analysis. Pneumomediastinum was detected by CT scan in all 136 (100%) patients, although identified on plain radiograph in only 20 (15%) patients. Computed tomography findings were suspicious for a major aerodigestive tract injury in 27 (20%) patients. Ten (37%) of these 27 patients had an injury requiring operative intervention: five (4%) laryngeal injuries, three (2%) tracheal disruptions, and two (1%) esophageal perforations. Eighty-one patients (60%) never had endoscopic evaluation. There were no delayed diagnoses, missed injuries, or complications in the observation-only cohort. The overall sensitivity and specificity of CT scan for major aerodigestive tract injury was 100% and 85%, respectively. CONCLUSION Major airway or esophageal injury is an uncommon cause of pneumomediastinum. CT scan was able to identify patients at high risk for aerodigestive injury in all cases, and should be the preferred screening tool for airway injury in patients with pneumomediastinum.
Resistance training with instability is more effective than resistance training in improving spinal inhibitory mechanisms in Parkinson's disease.

This study assessed 1) the effects of 12 wk of resistance training (RT) and resistance training with instability (RTI) on presynaptic inhibition (PSI) and disynaptic reciprocal inhibition (DRI) of patients with Parkinson's disease (PD); 2) the effectiveness of RT and RTI in moving PSI and DRI values of patients toward values of age-matched healthy controls (HC; Z-score analysis); and 3) associations between PSI and DRI changes and clinical outcomes changes previously published. Thirteen patients in RT group, 13 in RTI group, and 11 in a nonexercising control group completed the trial. While RT and RTI groups performed resistance exercises twice a week for 12 wk, only the RTI group used unstable devices. The soleus H reflex was used to evaluate resting PSI and DRI before and after the experimental protocol. The HC (n = 31) was assessed at pretest only. There were significant group × time interactions for PSI (P < 0.0001) and DRI (P < 0.0001). RTI was more effective than RT in increasing the levels of PSI (P = 0.0154) and DRI (P < 0.0001) at posttraining and in moving PSI [confidence interval (CI) 0.1-0.5] and DRI (CI 0.6-1.1) levels to those observed in HC. There was association between DRI and quality of life changes (r = -0.69, P = 0.008) and a strong trend toward association between PSI and postural instability changes (r = 0.60, P = 0.051) after RTI. RTI increased PSI and DRI levels more than RT, reaching the average values of the HC. Thus RTI may cause plastic changes in PSI and DRI pathways that are associated with some PD clinical outcomes. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) have motor dysfunction. Spinal inhibitory mechanisms are important for modulating both supraspinal motor commands and sensory feedback at the spinal level. Resistance training with instability was more effective than resistance training in increasing the levels of presynaptic inhibition and disynaptic reciprocal inhibition of lower limb at rest of the patients with PD, reaching the average values of the healthy controls.
Rural–Urban Differences in Life Satisfaction: Evidence from the European Union

Sørensen J. F. L. Rural–urban differences in life satisfaction: evidence from the European Union, Regional Studies. This paper uses data from the European Values Study 2008 to investigate rural–urban differences in life satisfaction across the European Union. Rural dwellers were found to have a significantly higher life satisfaction than city dwellers when holding socio-economic factors constant. This is systematically observed across three European Union country clusters defined by their level of affluence (gross domestic product (GDP)). With this background, the latter part of the paper explores the factors behind the higher life satisfaction in rural areas, focusing on differences in levels of insecurity, frames of comparison and levels of social interaction.
The Different Types of Assurance Services and Levels of Assurance Provided

In 2001 the International Auditing Practices Committee (IAPC, now the International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB)) commissioned research on the determination and communication of moderate assurance. This research was published in IFAC research monograph No. 1 (2002). Part of this research involved surveying the types of assurance services undertaken by 56 assurance firms from 11 different countries, the levels of assurance at which these assurance services were generally provided, and for those services provided as moderate assurance services, the reasons why. This paper re-analyses this data and extends the IFAC research report (2002) by examining the differences between the types of assurance services (other than historical financial statement assurance) and levels at which these assurance services are provided by the former Big 5 audit firms compared with the non-Big 5 audit firms. Information was also collected on 166 moderate assurance engagements provided by these participating assurance firms. The determinants of the level of assurance for these assurance service engagements were identified and differences between the Big 5 and the non-Big 5 audit firms are reported.
Hybrid Concepts of the Control and Anti-Control of Flexible Joint Manipulator

This paper presents a Gaussian radial basis function neural network based on sliding mode control for trajectory tracking and vibration control of a flexible joint manipulator. To study the effectiveness of the controllers, designed controller is developed for tip angular position control of a flexible joint manipulator. The adaptation laws of designed controller are obtained based on sliding mode control methodology without calculating the Jacobian of the flexible joint system. Also in this study, the anti-control is applied to reduce the deflection angle of flexible joint system. To achieve this goal, the chaos dynamic must be created in the flexible joint system. So, the flexible joint system has been synchronized to chaotic gyroscope system. In this study, control and anti-control concepts are applied to achieve the high quality performance of flexible joint system. It is tried to design a controller which is capable to satisfy the control and anti- control aims. The performances of the proposed control are examined in terms of input tracking capability, level of vibration reduction and time response specifications. Finally, the efficacy of the proposed method is validated through experimentation on QUANSERâs flexible-joint manipulator.
Robust human detection with super-pixel segmentation and random ferns classification using RGB-D camera

Efficient and robust detection of humans has received great attention during the past few decades. This paper presents a two-staged approach for human detection in RGB-D images. As the traditional sliding window-based methods for target localization are often time-consuming, we propose to use the super-pixel method in depth data to efficiently locate the plausible head-top locations in the first stage. In the second stage, we propose to use Random Ferns to seek the features by combining information from different image spaces, which can select the most discriminative features and compute simple and fast Local Binary Features (LBFs) allowing for real-time applications. We evaluate our method on three publicly available challenging datasets taken by a Kinect camera. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed approach can robustly detect humans in complicated environments.