Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
C-Commerce Virtuality - Will it Work in the Internet?

During the Spring of 2000, students with a bachelor’s degree in engineering participated in an experiment which was intended to investigate the possibilities to manage a virtual furniture company by means of ccommerce. The test subjects developed a virtual furniture company operating on the Internet with suppliers available on the Internet. The test subjects’ satisfaction and perception of the experiment were solicited. The task was complex, but taking into consideration the test subjects’ background, their bachelor’s degree in engineering, as well as several years of industrial experience, these students if any should have the capabilities to manage the task given and thus provide us with some valuable information about the possibilities of c-commerce virtuality in the Internet.
Persepsi Wajib Pajak Mengenai Korupsi Pajak dan Pengaruhnya terhadap Kepatuhan Wajib Pajak (Studi pada Wpop yang Menjalankan USAha di Kpp Pratama Malang Utara)

Tax has an important role in Indonesia, considering the government's national development requires a relatively large funds. The taxation system in Indonesia are demanding Taxpayers active in fulfilling the obligation of taxation, thus requiring a high compliance. The purpose of this research is to know the influence of simultaneous and partial Taxpayer perceptions about tax corruption on mass media and law enforcement of tax corruption against Taxpayers compliance, and to know the variables that influence dominant. The kind of this research using a explanatory research. Sample research used is Private Taxpayers who are running Businesess and registered in KPP Pratama Malang Utara. Sampling techniques using accidental sampling. Method of analysis used is descriptive analysis and multiple linear analysis. Based on the research that has been done, the simultaneous perception of taxpayers with a variable tax corruption on mass media and law enforcement of tax corruption had a significant influence to Taxpayer compliance. Tax corruption on mass media had a significant influence on partial variables of Taxpayer compliance, while variable law enforcement of tax corruption had no significant influence on partial to Taxpayers compliance. Tax corruption on mass media is the dominant variable influence on Taxpayer compliance. Keywords : Taxpayers perception, Tax corruption, Taxpayer compliance
Transforming Vibrato Extent in Monophonic Sounds

This paper describes research into signal transformation operators allowing to modify the vibrato extent in recorded sound signals. A number of operators are proposed that deal with the problem taking into account different levels of complexity. The experimental validation shows that the operators are effective in removing existing vibrato in real world recordings at least for the idealized case of long notes and with properly segmented vibrato sections. It shows as well that for instruments with signiﬁcant noise level (ﬂute) independent treatment of noise and harmonic signal components is required.
Augmented pulmonary IL-4 and IL-13 receptor subunit expression in idiopathic interstitial pneumonia

Background: Some idiopathic interstitial pneumonias (IIPs) are characterised by fibroproliferation and deposition of extracellular matrix. Because efficacious treatment options are limited, research has been directed towards understanding the cytokine networks that may affect fibroblast activation and, hence, the progression of certain IIPs. Aims: To examine the expression of interleukin 4 (IL-4), IL-13, and their corresponding receptor subunits in the various forms of IIP and normal patient groups. Methods: Molecular and immunohistochemical analysis of IL-4, interferon γ (IFNγ), IL-13, IL-4 receptor (IL-R), and IL-13 receptor subunits in surgical lung biopsies (SLBs) from 39 patients (21 usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP), six non-specific interstitial pneumonia (NSIP), eight respiratory bronchiolitic interstitial lung disease (RBILD), and five normal controls). Results: Molecular analysis demonstrated that IL-13Rα2, IL-13Rα1, and IL-4Rα were present in a greater proportion of upper and lower lobe biopsies from patients with UIP than patients with NSIP and RBILD. Immunohistochemical analysis of patients with UIP, NSIP, and RBILD revealed interstitial staining for all three receptor subunits, whereas such staining was only seen in mononuclear cells present in normal SLBs. Fibroblastic foci in patients with UIP strongly stained for IL-4Rα and IL-13Rα2. Localised expression of IL-4Rα was also seen in SLBs from patients with NSIP but not in other groups. Conclusion: Some histological subtypes of IIP are associated with increased pulmonary expression of receptor subunits responsive to IL-4 and IL-13. These findings may be of particular importance in understanding the pathogenesis of IIP and, more importantly, may provide important novel therapeutic targets.
Firm's Capital Structure and Factor-Product Markets: A Theoretical Overview

The objective of this work is to offer a theoretical overview of the literature that links capital structure and factor-product markets, in order to show what we do know about these connections. This literature relates some elements of the modern financial theory to the stakeholder theory, industrial organization, and firm's strategic management. Three main points could be highlighted. First, the relevant role of non-financial stakeholders in capital structure design. Second, the interactions existing between capital structure and market structure. Third, the two-direction effect between the firm's capital structure and its strategic behavior in product markets.
Capture, Politics and Antitrust Effectiveness

We study the ex-ante budget devoted by a Political Principal to a Competition Authority in charge of collecting evidence on the Industry's behavior. The Industry can capture both the Principal (lobbying) for a reduced budget, and the Authority (side-contracting) so as to avoid fines. Authority's capture is costly to the Principal when side-contracting is sufficiently efficient. Collusion proofness induces high-powered incentives for the Authority, hence fostering the Authority's willingness to spend the allocated budget. For intermediate values of side-contracting's efficiency, in this moral hazard setting we find that the optimal budget increases as side-contracting gets more efficient. Only when side-contracting's efficiency reaches high enough values the budget decreases, thus generating a discrepancy between the Authority's and the Principal's desired level of information gathering. Finally, a complementarity between lobbying of the Principal and capture of the Authority arises.
Uncertainty and the effectiveness of policy

Economists concerned with aggregative policy spend a great deal of their time discussing the implications of various structural changes for the effectiveness of economic policy. In recent years, for example, monetary economists have debated at great length whether the rapid growth of nonbank financial intermediaries has lessened the effectiveness of conventional instruments of monetary control. Similarly, in discussions of the desirability of the addition or removal of specific financial regulations the consequences for the effectiveness of policy play an important role. One of the striking features of many of these discussions is the absence of any clear notion of what "effectiveness" is. At times it appears to be simply "bang per buck"-how large a change in some crucial variable (e.g., the long-term bond rate) results from a given change in a policy variable (e.g., open market operation). A natural question to ask is why a halving of effectiveness in this sense should not be met simply by doubling the dose of policy, with equivalent results. It seems reasonable to suppose that the consequences of a structural change for the effectiveness of policy should be related to how it affects the policy-maker's performance in meeting his objectives. Suppose, for example, that the policy-maker wants to maximize a utility function which depends on the values of "target" variables. If, after some structural change, the policy-maker finds he is able to score higher on his utility function, then presumably the structural change has improved the effectiveness of policy and vice versa. One of the implications of the "theory of policy" in a world of certainty [6] or "certainty equivalence" [1] [3] [4] [5] is that structural changes which simply alter the magnitude of the response to policy do not alter the attainable utility level. ' Hence such structural changes do not alter effectiveness in the above sense. Another feature of the theory of policy in a world of certainty
Prevention of Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Nephropathy by MG132: Possible Roles of Nrf2 and IκB

Our previous study showed that proteasomal inhibitor MG132 can prevent diabetic nephropathy (DN) along with upregulation of nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2). The present study was to investigate whether MG132 can prevent DN in wild-type and Nrf2-KO mice. Type 1 diabetes was induced in wild-type and Nrf2-KO mice by multiple low doses of streptozotocin. Two weeks after streptozotocin injection, both wild-type and Nrf2-KO mice were randomly divided into four groups: control, MG132, DM, and DM/MG132. MG132 (10 μg/kg/day) or vehicle was administered intraperitoneally for 4 months. Renal function, morphology, and biochemical changes were measured after 4-month treatment with MG132. MG132 treatment suppressed proteasomal activity in the two genotypes. In wild-type mice, MG132 attenuated diabetes-induced renal dysfunction, fibrosis, inflammation, and oxidative damage along with increased Nrf2 and IκB expression. Deletion of Nrf2 gene resulted in a partial, but significant attenuation of MG132 renal protection in Nrf2-KO mice compared with wild-type mice. MG132-increased IκB expression was not different between wild-type and Nrf2-KO mice. This work indicates that MG132 inhibits diabetes-increased proteasomal activity, resulting in Nrf2 and IκB upregulation and renal protection, which could be used as a strategy to prevent diabetic nephropathy.
Better Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet Could Mitigate the Adverse Consequences of Obesity on Cardiovascular Disease: The SUN Prospective Cohort

Strong observational evidence supports the association between obesity and cardiovascular events. In elderly high-risk subjects, the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) was reported to counteract the adverse cardiovascular effects of adiposity. Whether this same attenuation is also present in younger subjects is not known. We prospectively examined the association between obesity and cardiovascular clinical events (myocardial infarction, stroke or cardiovascular death) after 10.9 years follow-up in 19,065 middle-aged men and women (average age 38 year) according to their adherence to the MedDiet (<6 points or ≥6 points in the Trichopoulou’s Mediterranean Diet Score). We observed 152 incident cases of cardiovascular disease (CVD). An increased risk of CVD across categories of body mass index (BMI) was apparent if adherence to the MedDiet was low, with multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios (HRs): 1.44 (95% confidence interval: 0.93–2.25) for ≥25 – <30 kg/m2 of BMI and 2.00 (1.04–3.83) for ≥30 kg/m2 of BMI, compared to a BMI < 25 kg/m2. In contrast, these estimates were 0.77 (0.35–1.67) and 1.15 (0.39–3.43) with good adherence to MedDiet. Better adherence to the MedDiet was associated with reduced CVD events (p for trend = 0.029). Our results suggest that the MedDiet could mitigate the harmful cardiovascular effect of overweight/obesity.
Ihh signaling is directly required for the osteoblast lineage in the endochondral skeleton

Indian hedgehog (Ihh) is indispensable for development of the osteoblast lineage in the endochondral skeleton. In order to determine whether Ihh is directly required for osteoblast differentiation, we have genetically manipulated smoothened (Smo), which encodes a transmembrane protein that is essential for transducing all Hedgehog (Hh) signals. Removal of Smo from perichondrial cells by the Cre-LoxP approach prevents formation of a normal bone collar and also abolishes development of the primary spongiosa. Analysis of chimeric embryos composed of wild-type and Smon/n cells indicates that Smon/n cells fail to contribute to osteoblasts in either the bone collar or the primary spongiosa but generate ectopic chondrocytes. In order to assess whether Ihh is sufficient to induce bone formation in vivo, we have analyzed the bone collar in the long bones of embryos in which Ihh was artificially expressed in all chondrocytes by the UAS-GAL4 bigenic system. Although ectopic Ihh does not induce overt ossification along the entire cartilage anlage, it promotes progression of the bone collar toward the epiphysis, suggesting a synergistic effect between ectopic Ihh and endogenous factors such as the bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs). In keeping with this model, Hh signaling is further found to be required in BMP-induced osteogenesis in cultures of a limb-bud cell line. Taken together, these results demonstrate that Ihh signaling is directly required for the osteoblast lineage in the developing long bones and that Ihh functions in conjunction with other factors such as BMPs to induce osteoblast differentiation. We suggest that Ihh acts in vivo on a potential progenitor cell to promote osteoblast and prevent chondrocyte differentiation.
Accrual Quality and Opportunistic Seasoned Equity Offering in the Korean Stock Market

Abstract We examine accrual quality (AQ) and its relationship with opportunistic seasoned equity offering (SEO) in the emerging Korean stock market. According to our empirical results, SEO firms with lower AQ tend to show higher abnormal returns around SEO announcement and significantly lower long-term performance after SEO. These results are more evident for SEO firms in which influence of institutional investors is weak. These findings suggest that poor AQ may be an important predictor of incentive for opportunistic SEOs and that the incentive may strengthen when institutional investors’ monitoring role weakens.
Yoga for Multiple Sclerosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

While yoga seems to be effective in a number of neuropsychiatric disorders, the evidence of efficacy in multiple sclerosis remains unclear. The aim of this review was to systematically assess and meta-analyze the available data on efficacy and safety of yoga in patients with multiple sclerosis. Medline/PubMed, Scopus, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PsycINFO, CAM-Quest, CAMbase, and IndMED were searched through March 2014. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of yoga for patients with multiple sclerosis were included if they assessed health-related quality of life, fatigue, and/or mobility. Mood, cognitive function, and safety were defined as secondary outcome measures. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane tool. Seven RCTs with a total of 670 patients were included. Evidence for short-term effects of yoga compared to usual care were found for fatigue (standardized mean difference [SMD] = −0.52; 95% confidence intervals (CI) = −1.02 to −0.02; p = 0.04; heterogeneity: I2 = 60%; Chi2 = 7.43; p = 0.06) and mood (SMD = −0.55; 95%CI = −0.96 to −0.13; p = 0.01; heterogeneity: I2 = 0%; Chi2 = 1.25; p = 0.53), but not for health-related quality of life, muscle function, or cognitive function. The effects on fatigue and mood were not robust against bias. No short-term or longer term effects of yoga compared to exercise were found. Yoga was not associated with serious adverse events. In conclusion, since no methodological sound evidence was found, no recommendation can be made regarding yoga as a routine intervention for patients with multiple sclerosis. Yoga might be considered a treatment option for patients who are not adherent to recommended exercise regimens.
Understanding and measuring leadership effectiveness in a South East Asian context

The focus of this article is to outline a case study from a South East (SE) Asian context, where combined qualitative and quantitative approaches are being used to facilitate a better understanding and measurement of leadership effectiveness. We briefly outline some of the underlying research and then our methodology, then present the results from the first phase of the research and relate the findings back to existing leadership frameworks.
A 12 GHz 1.9 W Direct Digital Synthesizer MMIC Implemented in 0.18 $\mu$m SiGe BiCMOS Technology

This paper presents a 12 GHz direct digital synthesizer (DDS) MMIC with 9-bit phase and 8-bit amplitude resolution implemented in a 0.18 mum SiGe BiCMOS technology. Composed of a 9-bit pipeline accumulator and an 8-bit sine-weighted current-steering DAC, the DDS is capable of synthesizing sinusoidal waveforms up to 5.93 GHz. The maximum clock frequency of the DDS MMIC is measured as 11.9 GHz at the Nyquist output and 12.3 GHz at 2.31 GHz output. The spurious-free dynamic range (SFDR) of the DDS, measured at Nyquist output with an 11.9 GHz clock, is 22 dBc. The power consumption of the DDS MMIC measured at a 12 GHz clock input is 1.9 W with dual power supplies of 3.3 V/4 V. The DDS thus achieves a record-high power efficiency figure of merit (FOM) of 6.3 GHz/W. With more than 9600 transistors, the active area of the MMIC is only 2.5 x 0.7 mm2. The chip was measured in packaged prototypes using 48-pin ceramic LCC packages.
Juha-Pekka Niinimäki Screening in the credit market when the collateral value is stochastic Bank of Finland

This theoretical paper explores screening with loan collateral when both the collateral value and the probability of project success fluctuate. Some model versions challenge the classic findings of Bester (1985) by showing that high-risk borrowers may in such case be more willing to pledge collateral than low-risk borrowers. Abundant collateral then would not signal low risk. The results may help explain the mixed empirical findings on the role of collateral. The paper also extends the analysis of the topical subprime crises and risky real estate collateral.
TERT promoter mutations and gene amplification: Promoting TERT expression in Merkel cell carcinoma

Telomerase activation through the induction of its catalytic component TERT is essential in carcinogenesis. The regulatory mechanism and clinical significance underlying cancer-specific TERT expression have been extensively investigated in various human malignancies, but little is known about these in Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), an aggressive neuroendocrine skin tumor. Here we addressed these issues by determining TERT promoter mutations, gene amplification, mRNA expression and association with clinical variables in MCC. TERT mRNA was expressed in 6/6 MCC cell lines and 41 of 43 tumors derived from 35 MCC patients. Telomerase activity was detectable in all 6 cell lines and 11 tumors analyzed. TERT promoter mutations were identified in 1/6 cell lines and 4/35 (11.4%) MCC cases. The mutation exhibited UV signature and occurred in sun-exposed areas. Increased TERT gene copy numbers were observed in 1/6 cell lines and 11/14 (79%) tumors, and highly correlated with its mRNA expression (r = 0.7419, P = 0.0024). Shorter overall survival was significantly associated with higher TERT mRNA levels in MCC patients (P = 0.032). Collectively, TERT expression and telomerase activity is widespread in MCC, and may be attributable to TERT promoter mutations and gene amplification. Higher TERT expression predicts poor patient outcomes.
Advanced fault-tolerant current control of five-phase PMSM for mining applications

The next big change in mining technology is associated with using more power dense motors, such as permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSM). For added robustness and fault tolerance, multiphase PMSM can be recommended. Focus of this paper is development of an advanced current control scheme for five-phase PMSM under normal conditions and one-phase open-fault. While traditional linear controllers can cope well with current reference tracking in the healthy motor conditions, but post fault operation involves unmodelled dynamics, which significantly reduces the effectiveness of linear controllers. The proposed non-linear control scheme is based on decoupled fault motor model and sliding mode control (SMC). It is capable of providing constant d and q axis current and constant back-EMFs, even if the motor is missing one phase. With this approach the faulty motor has a smooth output speed profile. This makes it efficient and suitable for demanding drive applications, such as mining machinery. Feasibility of the proposed control strategy is experimentally verified on a FPGA/DCS based five-phase PMSM drive.
Leaderless Jihad

Preface Introduction. Understanding the Path to Radicalism 1. How to Study Terrorism in the Twenty-First Century 2. The Globalization of Jihadi Terror 3. The Jihadist's Profile 4. Radicalization in the Diaspora 5. The Atlantic Divide 6. Terrorism in the Age of the Internet 7. The Rise of Leaderless Jihad 8. Combating Global Islamist Terrorism Notes Bibliography Index
A Role for Oxytocin in the Etiology and Treatment of Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a chronic debilitating neuropsychiatric disorder estimated to affect 51 million people worldwide. Several symptom domains characterize schizophrenia, including negative symptoms, such as social withdrawal and anhedonia, cognitive impairments, such as disorganized thinking and impaired memory, and positive symptoms, such as hallucinations and delusions. While schizophrenia is a complex neuropsychiatric disorder with no single “cause,” there is evidence that the oxytocin (Oxt) system may be dysregulated in some individuals. Further, treatment with intranasal Oxt reduces some of the heterogeneous symptoms associated with schizophrenia. Since Oxt is known for its modulatory effects on a variety of social and non-social behaviors, it is perhaps not surprising that it may contribute to some aspects of schizophrenia and could also be a useful therapeutic agent. In this review, we highlight what is known about Oxt’s contributions to schizophrenia and schizophrenia-related behaviors and discuss its potential as a therapeutic agent.
The effects of advertising in an inverse demand system: Norwegian vegetables revisited

Rickertsen et al. (1995) found no significant positive effects of advertising on vegetable demand using the almost ideal demand (AID) system. Using SUR in a quantity-dependent system assumes that prices are predetermined. During the Norwegian growing season, strict import regulations have been applied and quantities are apparently predetermined. To investigate whether the AID or a corresponding inverse demand system is appropriate, the endogeneity of prices and quantities are tested. Advertising expenditures are included as shift variables in both systems. Quantities appear to be predetermined, while prices are endogenous and the inverse model is selected. No positive effects of advertising are found. Copyright 1998 by Oxford University Press.