Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Bus fare please: the economics of sex and gifts among adolescents in urban South Africa.

Force or coercion are often a part of sexual relationships in South Africa especially among adolescents. This coercion is also often pinioned by an economic exchange: gifts or favours for sex. Studies have pointed out the negative consequences of the exchanges which are often characterised by large age differences (‘sugar daddies’) or power imbalances. Perhaps more pervasive but largely ignored gift-giving in same-age relationships also may be associated with sexual leverage an exchange which somehow entitles one partner physical and sexual rights to the other’s body. The circumstances surrounding gifts and favours may shape young women’s and men’s sexual experiences their ability to negotiate the circumstances of those encounters and the possibility of concluding or remoulding a relationship into another form. Using focus group discussions collected in the Durban metropolitan area between September and December of 1999 among adolescents age 14–22 we examine the economic context of gift giving or receiving and its relationship to patterns of risky sexual behaviour such as unsafe sex practices and reports of sexual coercion or force. We find that gift-giving among same-age adolescents is common and important to shaping sexual relationships. Adolescents associate money or cash with prostitution but do not consider gifts as such. Types of gifts and their meaning varied considerably by racial group and by gender. (author’s)
Universal plastid primers for Chlorophyta and Rhodophyta

To date, the majority of molecular genetic studies in algae have utilized a fairly limited range of markers such as the plastid rbcL gene and spacer, the mitochondrial cox2-3 spacer or the nuclear ribosomal DNA and spacers. The lack of available markers has been particularly problematic in studies of within-species variation. Whilst microsatellites are now being developed in many algal species, there remains a need for universal markers that can be applied to a wide range of species. The increasing availability of complete plastid genome sequences for several algae has allowed us to develop two sets of universal primers, similar to those available in higher plants, for the amplification of coding and non-coding regions of the plastid genome in red and green algae. These markers are expected to be useful in a broad range of algal population genetic and phylogenetic studies.
Estimating the Impact of Marriage and Fertility on the Female Labor Force Participation when Decisions are Interrelated : Evidence from Urban Morocco

Studying the impact of fertility on the extent of female labor force participation and the form that this participation takes is complicated by the fact that both fertility and participation are potentially endogenous household decisions, requiring simultaneous estimation. Such estimation is further complicated by the need to find appropriate instruments for fertility. Moreover, the timing of marriage (or the probability of being married at a certain age), which is an important determinant of both fertility and participation, may also be endogenous to those decisions. In this paper, we estimate a structural model for labor force participation that distinguishes between different participation states (non-wage work, public wage work, private wage work, and unemployment) and that takes into account the endogeneity of the timing of marriage and fertility. We find that, in urban Morocco, marriage per se is not a constraint on labor force participation, but that it is a constraint on engaging in paid employment in the private sector. The presence of school-age children significantly reduces participation in all types of wage work. Moreover, a woman's own education, as well as that of her father, significantly increase the probability of her participation in the public sector. With the dramatic slowdown in public sector hiring in recent years, these variables are also strong determinants of female unemployment.
Character-based Joint Segmentation and POS Tagging for Chinese using Bidirectional RNN-CRF

We present a character-based model for joint segmentation and POS tagging for Chinese. The bidirectional RNN-CRF architecture for general sequence tagging is adapted and applied with novel vector representations of Chinese characters that capture rich contextual information and lower-than-character level features. The proposed model is extensively evaluated and compared with a state-of-the-art tagger respectively on CTB5, CTB9 and UD Chinese. The experimental results indicate that our model is accurate and robust across datasets in different sizes, genres and annotation schemes. We obtain state-of-the-art performance on CTB5, achieving 94.38 F1-score for joint segmentation and POS tagging.
Far from Home: Do Foreign Investors Import Higher Standards of Governance in Transition Economies?

Based on the Business Environment and Enterprise Performance Survey (BEEPS) of firms in transition countries, which unbundles corruption to measure different types of corrupt transactions and provide detailed information on the characteristics and performance of firms, we find that: i) corruption reduces FDI inflows and attracts lower quality investment in terms of governance standards; ii) in misgoverned settings, FDI firms may magnify the problems of state capture and procurement kickbacks, while paying a lower overall bribe burden than domestic firms; iii) FDI firms undertake those forms of corruption that suit their comparative advantages, generating substantial gains for them and challenging the premise that they are coerced, which makes it difficult to develop effective constraints on such behavior; and, iv) transnational legal restrictions to prevent bribery had not led to higher standards of corporate conduct among foreign investors by the year 2000. Rather than being construed as a case against foreign investment; we argue that state capture is created and maintained through restrictions on competition and entry in strategic sectors. Thus, enhancing competition by attracting a wider, more diverse set of FDI firms is critical to the broader strategic framework of fighting state capture and corruption.
Design and implementation of high throughput, low-complexity MIMO-OFDM transciever

In order to increase the quality of the real time application it is essential to improve the throughput, capability of the network in new generation of WLAN. In recent days, the wide local area networks are combined with MIMO and OFDM wireless technologies. It is well known that OFDM provides a high data rate with low complexity. The robustness of the OFDM provides high data rates. It comprises multiplexing in modulations, so that OFDM can able to increase the interference of the channel. In this paper is focused to improve the quality of service on 802.11n standard MIMO-OFDM wireless systems. To do this, a new extended-OFDM transceiver is designed by modifying the modulation, encoding-decoding and FFT techniques by applying QAM, Optimum Frequency domain response encoding and 64 lines FFT with Radix4 Decimation in Time (DIT) by prime factor algorithm respectively. The main unit of OFDM is FFT. Optimizing FFT requires high attention. Hence by generalizing FFT algorithm the performance of the system is improved in terms of high throughput and low complexity. The simulation results shows that the proposed transceiver is efficient than the existing system.
Subjektive Kompetenzeinschätzung von Studierenden und ihre Leistung im OSCE [Student´s self-assessment of clinical competence and objective clinical performance in OSCE evaluation]

Overestimating one's clinical competence can be dangerous to patient's safety. Therefore the goal of this study was to identify students with high confidence in their own clinical competence but low performance in objective assessment. 171 students in the 14 week course in internal medicine completed the clinical skills-related self-assessment expectations (SE) and were tested in a 12 station OSCE. Both measures were obtained within three days. In total we identified 16% of students who overestimated their performance in clinical skills compared to their OSCE-results. Male students significantly more oversestimated their clinical compltence (31%) than female students. One possible cause may be the lack of corrective experiences during clinical traineeship leading to the misconception of own performance. Further validation and the integration of a counselling program for these students seem necessary.
Prognostic significance of artemin and GFRα1 expression in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma

Artemin (ARTN) has been implicated in the development and progression of several human malignancies. However, the clinical and prognostic significance of ARTN and its receptors has not yet been investigated in human laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC). Therefore, in the present study, the protein expression of ARTN and its receptor, namely GFRα1, was determined in 76 LSCC and 26 laryngeal polyp tissue samples using immunohistochemistry. Furthermore, the clinicopathological and prognostic significance of ARTN and GFRα1 expression was analyzed in patients with LSCC. The results revealed that the expression of ARTN and GFRα1 was significantly increased in LSCC compared with polyp tissue samples. Furthermore, the expression of ARTN and GFRα1 was positively associated with pTNM stage in LSCC. Kaplan-Meier survival analyses revealed a strong association between the expression of ARTN or GFRα1 and the survival of patients with LSCC. Correlation analysis demonstrated that the expression of ARTN was significantly correlated with the expression GFRα1. In conclusion, the results demonstrated that ARTN and GFRα1 may be useful predictors of disease progression and outcome in patients with LSCC.
X‐ray spectral variability of the Seyfert galaxy NGC 4051

We report on the X-ray spectral variability of the Seyfert 1 galaxy NGC 4051 observed with the Rossi X-ray Timing Explorer (RXTE) during a 1000 day period between May 1996 and March 1999. The spectra were obtained as part of monitoring observations and from two long observations using the RXTE Proportional Counter Array (PCA). During the monitoring period the 2-10 keV flux of NGC 4051 varied between 10 12 and 7 · 10 11 erg/(cm 2 s). We re-analysed RXTE PCA observations from a distinct low state in May 1998 using the latest background and detector response models. The RXTE and BeppoSAX observations of NGC 4051 during the low state show a very hard spectrum with a strong unresolved fluorescence line. This emission, probably due to reflection from a m olecular torus, is likely to be constant over long time-scales and is therefore assumed as an underlying component at all flux states. By subtracting the torus component we are able to determine the spectral variability of the primary continuum. In the variable component we observe a strong anti-correlation of X-ray flux and spectral hardness in the PCA energy band. We s how that the changes in hardness are caused by slope variability of the primary power law spectrum rather than by changing reflection or variable photoelectric absorption. The primary spectral index varies between = 1 . 6 for the faintest states and = 2 . 3 during the brightest states, at which level the spectral index approaches an asympotic value. We find tha t the response of the flux of the 6.4 keV iron fluorescence line to changes in the continuum flux depends on the timescale of the observation. The profile of the line is very broad and indi cates an origin in the innermost regions of the accretion disk.
Numerical Modeling of Supercavitating and Surface-Piercing Propeller Flows

A 3-D panel method has been extended to model the flow around fully submerged supercavitating propellers and surface-piercing propellers. Overviews of the formulation and solution methodology is presented. Comparisons of the numerical predictions with measurements from experiments are given. Discussion of the numerical results, and initial work on modeling of impact flows are provided.
Specifying , validating and generating an agent behaviour using a Goal Decomposition Tree

This paper deals with a goal-oriented agent model called Goal Decomposition Tree (GDT) allowing both to specify and validate the behaviour of an agent. This work takes place in a global framework whose goal is to define a process allowing to start from a problem specification to obtain a validated implementation of a corresponding MAS. The GDT model has been used to specify a prey-predator system which has been verified this way.
Long-term effects of Dance for PD® on self-efficacy among persons with Parkinson’s disease

Abstract Background: Dance for Parkinson’s Disease or Dance for PD® (DfPD) classes were developed by the Mark Morris Dance Group and Brooklyn Parkinson Group in 2001. This exploratory study examined long-term effects of DfPD on non-dance activities outside the studio, functional mobility, self-efficacy, and quality of life (QoL). Methods: Individuals in four well-established DfPD classes completed a survey regarding perceived impact of DfPD. Response rate was 55%; 61 completed surveys were included in analyses. Results: Responses indicated that DfPD clearly impacts daily functioning outside the studio. Results of regression analyses indicated that functional mobility and self-efficacy were associated with QoL. Mediation analyses indicated that one way in which higher levels of functional mobility influence QoL is by enhancing self-efficacy of the PD participants. Conclusions: Because of the direct effect of self-efficacy on QoL, results suggest future research focus on self-efficacy as well as functional mobility and mood in dance research related to PD.
INFLUENCE OF LANGUAGE LEARNING STRATEGIES ON SELF-EFFICACY AMONG MALAYSIAN MASS COMM UNDERGRADUATES

According to Gahungu (2007), learners' use of learning strategies can influence their language learning ability and affect their self-efficacy. There are 6 strategies namely memory strategies, cognitive strategies, compensation strategies, metacognitive strategies, affective strategies and social strategies. Self-efficacy is a skill that is not already embedded in the self of a learner. It is generated and developed. Past researches have shown the relationship between language learning strategies and learners' self-efficacy. This study aims to look into detail on students’ preferences of strategies and how those strategies affect their level of proficiency in second language acquisition. The result of this study will show interesting findings on how language learning strategies influence self-efficacy. Keywords Language Learning strategies, Self-efficacy
A STUDY OF DEPENDENCE OF SOFTWARE ATTRIBUTES USING DATA ANALYSIS TECHNIQUES

MILITON FRENT»IU AND HORIA F. POPAbstract. The dependence between software attributes is studied, using theprojects written by second year students as a requirement in their curriculum.The dendrogram, factorial analysis and principal components methods areused as Data Analysis Technique. Also, some consequences on the educationactivity are considered.Keywords: software metrics, measurement, fuzzy clustering, data anal-ysis techniques, education
A Half-Megasecond Chandra Observation of the Oxygen-rich Supernova Remnant G292.0+1.8

We report on our initial analysis of a deep 510 ks observation of the Galactic oxygen-rich supernova remnant (SNR) G292.0+1.8 with the Chandra X-Ray Observatory. Our new Chandra ACIS-I observation has a larger field of view and an order of magnitude deeper exposure than that of the previous Chandra observation, which allows us to cover the entire SNR and to detect new metal-rich ejecta features. We find a highly nonuniform distribution of thermodynamic conditions of the X-ray-emitting hot gas that correlates well with the optical [O III] emission, suggesting the possibility that the originating supernova explosion of G292.0+1.8 was itself asymmetric. We also reveal spectacular substructures of a torus, a jet, and an extended central compact nebula, all associated with the embedded pulsar J1124-5916.
MCT4 as a potential therapeutic target for metastatic gastric cancer with peritoneal carcinomatosis

Monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs) play a major role in up-regulation of glycolysis and adaptation to acidosis. However, the role of MCTs in gastric cancer (GC) is not fully understood. We investigated the potential utilization of a new cancer therapy for GC. We characterized the expression patterns of the MCT isoforms 1, 2, and 4 and investigated the role of MCT in GC through in vitro and in vivo tests using siRNA targeting MCTs. In GC cell lines, MCT1, 2, and 4 were up-regulated with different expression levels; MCT1 and MCT4 were more widely expressed in GC cell lines compared with MCT2. Inhibition of MCTs by siRNA or AR-C155858 reduced cell viability and lactate uptake in GC cell lines. The effect of inhibition of MCTs on tumor growth was also confirmed in xenograft models. Furthermore, MCT inhibition in GC cells increased the sensitivity of cells to radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Compared with normal gastric tissue, no significant alterations of expression levels in tumors were identified for MCT1 and MCT2, whereas a significant increase in MCT4 expression was observed. Most importantly, MCT4 was highly overexpressed in malignant cells of acsites and its silencing resulted in reduced tumor cell proliferation and lactate uptake in malignant ascites. Our study suggests that MCT4 is a clinically relevant target in GC with peritoneal carcinomatosis.
One-year Mortality Rates of Patients Receiving Methadone and Buprenorphine Maintenance Therapy: A Nationally Representative Cohort Study in 2694 Patients

Mortality rates in drug-dependent patients in substitution treatment remain a matter of debate. Although several retrospective toxicological or forensic postmortem studies on this issue have been conducted, few prospective studies have addressed this problem. In a nationally representative sample of 2694 opioid dependent patients in substitution treatment either with methadone or buprenorphine at baseline were monitored over a 12-month period (response rate, 91%). A total number of 1629 (60.4%) were still in treatment after 12 months. The overall mortality rate was 1.04%. In total, 28 patients of the initial sample deceased within the 1-year follow-up period. Eleven (0.4%) of these deaths are due to a fatal intoxication. Three patients (0.1%) died of human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, and 3 (0.1%) committed suicide. Thirteen of these patients (4 with overdose/polyintoxication) were not in substitution treatment at the time of death. Other reasons included accidents and deaths due to other medical conditions. Only in one case the reason could not be ascertained. The mortality rate was similar in methadone as compared with buprenorphine patients. Taking into account the high comorbidity of opioid dependent patients and the severity of dependence, the mortality rate of approximately 1% confirms that maintenance treatment could be regarded as a fairly safe treatment.
Proteomic Screening of Human Targets of Viral microRNAs Reveals Functions Associated with Immune Evasion and Angiogenesis

Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) is caused by infection with Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV). The virus expresses unique microRNAs (miRNAs), but the targets and functions of these miRNAs are not completely understood. In order to identify human targets of viral miRNAs, we measured protein expression changes caused by multiple KSHV miRNAs using pulsed stable labeling with amino acids in cell culture (pSILAC) in primary endothelial cells. This led to the identification of multiple human genes that are repressed at the protein level, but not at the miRNA level. Further analysis also identified that KSHV miRNAs can modulate activity or expression of upstream regulatory factors, resulting in suppressed activation of a protein involved in leukocyte recruitment (ICAM1) following lysophosphatidic acid treatment, as well as up-regulation of a pro-angiogenic protein (HIF1α), and up-regulation of a protein involved in stimulating angiogenesis (HMOX1). This study aids in our understanding of miRNA mechanisms of repression and miRNA contributions to viral pathogenesis.
Meningioma treated with interferon-α, evaluated with [11C]-L-methionine positron emission tomography

Purpose: In meningioma patients with postoperative residual masses, recurrent or primarily inoperable tumors, positron emission tomography (PET) with [ 11 C]-l-methionine was used to evaluate treatment efficacy of IFN-α. Experimental Design : Twelve patients were treated with IFN-α at a dose of 1.5–5 million IU s.c. daily. PET, computed tomography, and/or magnetic resonance imaging were performed in all patients before and, at regular intervals, during IFN-α treatment. The ratio of tumor hot-spot uptake to cerebellar uptake or to cortex uptake was calculated. This ratio estimates the relative methionine accumulation in the tumor and presumably the proliferative activity in the tumor. Results: During IFN-α treatment, PET demonstrated a mean relative percentage of reduction in the uptake ratio (MRelR) of 22.3% in the meningiomas. In nine patients who were considered responders, defined as patients with a positive MRelR, the MRelR was 30.4%. For the three nonresponders, defined as patients with a negative MRelR, the MRelR was −1.8%. Three patients were followed for a long time: two patients for 8 years and one patient for 4 years and 6 months; the two patients followed for 8 years are still on IFN. The volumes of these tumors were constant or showed a slight decrease. No correlation was found between histopathological diagnosis (PAD) WHO grading I–III of meningiomas and response to IFN-α treatment. Conclusions : PET was judged a useful method to predict which patients are suitable for long-term treatment with IFN-α and also for dose finding. In five patients treated from 9 months to 8 years, IFN-α seemed to be an effective oncostatic drug. The clinical usefulness of IFN-α, taking adverse reactions into account, must be evaluated in a larger series of patients.
Large mineralogically distinct impact melt feature at Copernicus crater – Evidence for retention of compositional heterogeneity

Despite several lines of evidence for efficient mixing of impact melt in complex craters, we document mineralogical heterogeneity in impact melt deposit on a scale of tens of kilometers on the Moon in the 96 km‐diameter Copernicus crater. This heterogeneity is in the form of a large, sinuous impact melt feature on the floor and northern wall that is spectrally distinct from melt in its immediate vicinity. This melt feature spanning >30 km in length and 0.5–5 km in width has relatively short‐wavelength, narrow ferrous absorption bands near ~900 nm and ~2000 nm indicating a more Mg‐rich pyroxene composition as compared to impact melt deposit in the vicinity which is relatively rich in Fe/Ca‐pyroxenes. This distinction provides evidence for the preservation of compositional heterogeneity in impact melt in complex craters on the Moon and documents an example of inefficient mixing of melt during the cratering process.