Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Tools for Hairy Requirements Engineering and Software Engineering Tasks

[Context and Motivation] A hairy requirements or software engineering task involving natural language (NL) documents is one that is not inherently difficult for NL-understanding humans on a small scale but becomes unmanageable in the large scale. A hairy task demands tool assistance. Because humans need help in carrying out a hairy task completely, a tool for a hairy task should have as close to 100% recall as possible. A hairy task tool that falls short of close to 100% recall that is applied to the development of a high-dependability system may even be useless, because to find the missing information, a human has to do the entire task manually anyway. For a such a tool to have recall acceptably close to 100%, a human working with the tool on the task must achieve better recall than a human working on the task entirely manually. [Problem] Traditionally, many hairy requirements and software engineering tools have been evaluated mainly by how high their precision is, possibly leading to incorrect conclusions about how effective they are. [Principal Ideas] This paper describes using recall, a properly weighted F-measure, and a new measure called summarization to evaluate tools for hairy requirements and software engineering tasks and applies some of these measures to several tools reported in the literature. [Contribution] The finding is that some of these tools are actually better than they were thought to be when they were evaluated using mainly precision or an unweighted F-measure.
The effects of location, capacity, technology and integration on operational flexibility: A service industry perspective

This in an empirical research, involving four important organizational resources, location, capacity, technology, and integration and their effects on operation flexibility. This study is done within the context of the service industry in Malaysia and South African service industries. The study employed a potent SEM PLS methods to test the relationship and predict which factor has the most influence. It is found that technology has the strongest effect on both types of operations flexibility. On the reasons behind these interesting findings, we offer managerial and theoretical justifications.
Inflammatory protein profile during systemic high dose interleukin‐2 administration

Systemic interleukin‐2 (IL‐2) administration induces an assortment of downstream effects whose biological and therapeutic significance remains unexplored mostly because of the methodological inability to globally address their complexity. Protein array analysis of sera from patients with renal cell carcinoma obtained prior and during high‐dose IL‐2 therapy had previously revealed extensive alterations in expression of the soluble factors analyzed, whose discovery was limited by the number of capture antibodies selected for protein detection. Here, we expanded the analysis to SELDI‐TOF‐MS and quantitative protein analysis (nephelometry). All cytokines/chemokines detected by protein arrays were below the SELDI detection limit, while novel IL‐2‐specific changes in expression of acute‐phase reactants and high‐density lipoprotein metabolites could be identified. Serum amyloid protein A (SAA) and C‐reactive protein expression were consistently up‐regulated after four doses of IL‐2, while other proteins were down‐regulated. These findings were confirmed by SELDI immunoaffinity capture and nephelometry. Immunoaffinity capture revealed different, otherwise undetectable, isoforms of SAA. A linear correlation between peak area by SELDI and protein concentration by nephelometry was observed. Overall distinct yet complementary information was obtained using different platforms, which may better illustrate complex phenomena such as the systemic response to biological response modifiers.
Topical Nano and Microemulsions for Skin Delivery

Nanosystems such as microemulsions (ME) and nanoemulsions (NE) offer considerable opportunities for targeted drug delivery to and via the skin. ME and NE are stable colloidal systems composed of oil and water, stabilised by a mixture of surfactants and cosurfactants, that have received particular interest as topical skin delivery systems. There is considerable scope to manipulate the formulation components and characteristics to achieve optimal bioavailability and minimal skin irritancy. This includes the incorporation of established chemical penetration enhancers to fluidize the stratum corneum lipid bilayers, thus reducing the primary skin barrier and increasing permeation. This review discusses nanosystems with utility in skin delivery and focuses on the composition and characterization of ME and NE for topical and transdermal delivery. The mechanism of skin delivery across the stratum corneum and via hair follicles is reviewed with particular focus on the influence of formulation.
Eye health seeking habits and barriers to accessing curative services among blind beggars in an urban community in Northern Nigeria.

OBJECTIVE The aim of the following study was to determine the types of intervention sought by the blind street beggars and assess the barriers to accessing available eye care services. METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted among consenting blind street beggars in Sokoto, Nigeria between May and June, 2009. A semi-structured interview was conducted to probe issues on historical antecedents of the blindness and the eye heath seeking behavior including the use of traditional eye medications. Assessment of barriers to accessing curative services among the blind persons was explored. Questions were asked and the individual responses were recorded in the questionnaire under the appropriate sections. RESULTS Two hundred and two of 216 (94.7%) of the examined subjects were found to be blind and included in the analysis. The principal cause of blindness was corneal opacity. Overall 82% of the blindness was due to avoidable causes with majority irreversibly blind. Only 38 subjects (18.8%) sought for intervention in hospitals, others resorted to self-medication (42.1%), medicine store (31.2%) and traditional facility (7.9%). Those that accessed treatment at a hospital did so mainly at a primary health center (50.0%) and General Hospitals (34.2%). The barriers to accessing treatment at the hospital were mainly due to "not taken to any hospital" by the parents/relatives (50.3%) and "services not available" (25.2%). CONCLUSION Most respondents resorted to ocular self-medication particularly traditional eye medicines. We advocate for a provision of affordable, accessible and qualitative eye care services with a strong health education component on avoidable causes of blindness.
The Effect Of Internal Capital Market Of Korean Large Business Groups On Investment Efficiency

This study examines whether the effect of funding through internal capital markets on investment efficiency is differentiated by the incentives of controlling shareholders as measured by the divergence between cash flow rights and voting rights of controlling shareholders (hereafter, wedge). To empirically analyze hypotheses of this study, 1,189 firm-year observations were collected from Korean firms listed on the Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) belonging to a large business group designated by the Korea Fair Trade Commission over the period from 2005 to 2012. The results of the analysis are as follows. First, we find that the magnitude of internal funding, as measured by total payables to the related parties, is positively (+) associated with investment inefficiency. Second, the interaction variables of total payables to the related parties and the wedge have a significant positive (+) effect on investment inefficiency. In other words, the deterioration of investment efficiency due to the increase in total payables to the related parties was mainly caused by firms with a big wedge. This result suggests that the effect of internal capital markets on investment efficiency of large business groups may be differentiated by the wedge that is proxy of the controlling shareholder’s incentive. This study provides additional evidence on previous studies on the investment efficiency of large business groups by considering both the internal capital market and incentives for funding using the internal capital market, which are important factors affecting the investment of large corporate groups. Also, the results of this study are expected to provide implications for the regulatory policy of large business groups which have recently become an issue in Korea.
Does Government Borrowing Crowd out Private Sector Credit in Pakistan

An analysis of the impact of government borrowing from the scheduled banks on the credit to private sector in Pakistan, using monthly data from 1998:M6 to 2015:M12. We find that a one percentage point growth in the government borrowing leads to 8 basis points crowding out of the private sector credit in four months. Albeit small, there is negative impact of government borrowing on the private sector credit. The results remain unchanged even after implementation of the interest rate corridor since August 2009. [SBP Working Paper series No. 836].
Two-photon photodynamic therapy.

OBJECTIVE We demonstrate the use of infrared excitation in conjunction with an efficient two-photon absorbing dye and a photosensitizer in photodynamic therapy. SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA An efficient two-photon absorbing dye is excited by short infrared (800 nm) laser pulses, which transfer its energy to the photosensitizer and the photosensitizer, in turn, generates the singlet oxygen. METHODS A new approach to photodynamic cancer therapy based on the strong two-photon absorption of certain newly developed organic molecules. Near infrared pulsed laser light efficiently excites these molecules which, in turn, transfer the energy to the photosensitizer used in photodynamic therapy. RESULTS A newly synthesized two-photon absorbing dye 4-[N-(2-hydroxyethyl)-N-(methyl) amino phenyl]-4'-(6-hydroxyhexyl sulfonyl)stilbene (APSS), which exhibits a strong two-photon absorption at 800 nm, and upconverted fluorescence at 520 nm, in solution in the presence of a photosensitizer was found to generate singlet oxygen under infrared excitation (800 nm). The generation of singlet oxygen in a reaction system containing two-photon absorbing dye and photosensitizer under infrared excitation has been chemically detected by using ADPA (9,10-anthracenedipropionic acid) as singlet oxygen detector. CONCLUSIONS The efficient two-photon absorption of certain chromophores can be used to extend photodynamic therapy to the near infrared spectral region. Whereas the photosensitizer itself may not exhibit two-photon absorption, it could be used in conjunction with one of these new chromophores. The chromophores can act as "photon harvesters" whereby they absorb two photons of near infrared light and transfer the energy to the photosensitizer, which can generate singlet oxygen in the presence of atmospheric oxygen.
Changes in nuclear protein acetylation in u.v.-damaged human cells.

We have investigated the levels of nuclear protein acetylation in u.v. -irradiated human fibroblasts. Initially, we measured the levels of acetylation in total acid-soluble nuclear proteins and observed two distinct differences between the irradiated and unirradiated (control) cells. Immediately after irradiation, there is a 'wave' of protein hyperacetylation (i.e. a total acetylation level greater than that of unirradiated cells) that lasts for 2-6 h depending on the experimental conditions. This hyperacetylation phase is then followed by a hypoacetylation phase, lasting for many hours, and the total level of acetylation does not return to that of control cells until 24-72 h after u.v. damage. Both the magnitude and duration of each phase is dependent on the dose of u.v. light used. The wave of hyperacetylation is more pronounced at low u.v. doses (i.e. less than 5 J/m2), while the wave of hypoacetylation is more pronounced at higher u.v. doses (greater than or equal to 8 J/m2). Furthermore, the duration of each phase is prolonged when cells are exposed to 2 mM hydroxyurea, an agent which retards the rate of excision repair at u.v. -damaged sites. Examination of the acetylation levels of the individual nuclear proteins indicated that acetylation of the core histones follows the same pattern observed for the total acid-soluble protein fractions. Furthermore, these were the only major proteins in the total acid-soluble fraction observed to undergo the early, rapid hyperacetylation immediately following u.v. damage. Acetylation of histone H1 was negligible in both damaged and control cells, while three prominent non-histone proteins were acetylated only after long labeling times (greater than 4 h) in each case, gradually becoming hyperacetylated in the u.v. -damaged cells. These results raise the possibility that a causal relationship exists between nuclear protein acetylation and nucleotide excision repair of DNA in human cells.
Measurement of the carrier recovery time in SOA based on dual pump FWM

A measurement of carrier recovery time in semiconductor optical amplifiers (SOAs) based on dual pumps four-wave mixing (FWM) is presented. The results show the carrier time is 91 ps, 79 ps and 63 ps at 120 mA, 180 mA and 240 mA, respectively, which agree to our expectation. The experimental results show the conversion efficiency keeps constant when the spacing of the two pumps varies within a small range.
c-Myc Regulates Cyclin D-Cdk4 and -Cdk6 Activity but Affects Cell Cycle Progression at Multiple Independent Points

ABSTRACT c-myc is a cellular proto-oncogene associated with a variety of human cancers and is strongly implicated in the control of cellular proliferation, programmed cell death, and differentiation. We have previously reported the first isolation of a c-myc-null cell line. Loss of c-Myc causes a profound growth defect manifested by the lengthening of both the G1and G2 phases of the cell cycle. To gain a clearer understanding of the role of c-Myc in cellular proliferation, we have performed a comprehensive analysis of the components that regulate cell cycle progression. The largest defect observed in c-myc −/− cells is a 12-fold reduction in the activity of cyclin D1-Cdk4 and -Cdk6 complexes during the G0-to-S transition. Downstream events, such as activation of cyclin E-Cdk2 and cyclin A-Cdk2 complexes, are delayed and reduced in magnitude. However, it is clear that c-Myc affects the cell cycle at multiple independent points, because restoration of the Cdk4 and -6 defect does not significantly increase growth rate. In exponentially cycling cells the absence of c-Myc reduces coordinately the activities of all cyclin–cyclin-dependent kinase complexes. An analysis of cyclin-dependent kinase complex regulators revealed increased expression of p27 KIP1 and decreased expression of Cdk7 in c-myc −/− cells. We propose that c-Myc functions as a crucial link in the coordinate adjustment of growth rate to environmental conditions.
High-Frequency Market Making: Liquidity Provision, Adverse Selection, and Competition

Using data from the NYSE Euronext Paris, with a specific identifier for electronic market- making activity, I examine the role of designated liquidity providers played by high-frequency traders (HFTs) as introduced by the forthcoming MiFID II regulation. I find that HFTs do provide liquidity to the market, but strategically so, to avoid being adversely selected by other fast traders when providing liquidity to them. Conversely, when they provide liquidity to slow traders, there is no evidence of adverse selection. I exploit a change in the liquidity provision agreement that introduces more competition among market makers. I show that higher competition is beneficial for the market. Liquidity provision increases and the quoted bid-ask spread decreases, as well as the adverse selection costs faced by all traders, especially for slow traders.
When is it necessary to localise product packaging

Purpose The common market practice by global consumer brands to create localised packaging for foreign markets conflicts with findings that cast doubt on this strategy. By examining the differential influence of standard (Western) and local (Chinese) packaging on Chinese consumers’ perceptions and choice behaviour, this study aims to examine whether this strategy is effective or even necessary. Design/methodology/approach A pre-test first identified suitable products and brands. Using a multiple methods approach, online participants in China first rated the brands and packaging of hedonic and utilitarian products. The ratings were then validated by triangulating with the results of a discrete choice experiment that captured participants’ choice behaviour. Findings For hedonic products, standard packaging is rated more positively and chosen more often than local packaging. For utilitarian products, there are no differences in ratings and choice. For hedonic products, brand likeability is higher for standard packaging than for local packaging. For utilitarian products, brand likeability does not differ between the two packaging types. Research limitations/implications These findings cast doubt on the effectiveness of indiscriminate packaging localisation. International marketers need to rethink their approach, particularly in non-Western markets. Interviews with five brand managers in charge of major consumer brands in China revealed their actual market practice and further illuminate this study’s findings. Originality/value This is first study to question the common market practice of packaging localisation and investigate the differential effects of standard versus local packaging of foreign products on consumers’ perceptions and choice behaviour.
“It Gives Me My Freedom”: Technology and Responding to Bodily Limitations in Motor Neuron Disease

People living with motor neuron disease (MND) experience profound and rapidly progressing impairment. In order to maintain their physical and social functioning, people so affected employ a range of technologies and technological aids (body auxiliaries) to enhance their life and maintain well-being. Using a phenomenological study design, we explored the experiences of 42 men and women who had been diagnosed with MND. Although many participants initially resisted the adoption of aids (often-electronic devices that enabled continued participation in daily life) or tools (the instruments that allowed achievement of specific tasks), such technologies offered a way for people with MND to overcome, to some extent, the limitations posed by their physical degeneration. Through generating a sense of ‘normality,’ these kinds of ‘enabling’ technologies promoted social engagement and the maintenance of valued relationships or activities. Technologies can provide people with MND with some positive experiences within a way of being-in-the-world that has become so difficult and challenging.
Insiders' information advantage: Evidence from competition with short sellers

This paper shows that insiders trade on public information just after earnings announcements. Using a sample of US stocks, we analyze insider trading in the context of short-selling activity and show that insiders sell significantly more often and more shares when short sellers are also highly active. Moreover, the speed of information dissemination is significantly higher when both insiders and short sellers sell intensively. Together, these findings imply that insiders' and short-sellers' signals are highly correlated. Previous literature has shown that short sellers possess superior information-processing skills that allow them to trade profitably after public-information releases. Our evidence suggests that insiders, just as short sellers, interpret publicly-available earnings news and sell when their stock is overpriced. Insiders tend to stop selling and even start buying when the stock is underpriced. Competition between the two types of informed traders increases the speed of information dissemination, which improves stock-market efficiency.
What is Driving the Corporate Bond Market Development in Asia?

We investigate the development of corporate bond markets in 10 Asian countries from 1995 to 2014. Using panel data on the market size and total issue of bonds by financial and non-financial companies, we confirm that macroeconomic and institutional factors are related to the depth of the market. In addition, we show that the issuance of bonds is also determined by other factors that strongly depend on the issuer type. We show that creditor rights and institutional quality are important in explaining the issuance of bonds by financial institutions. Furthermore, we determine a strong positive association between the level of domestic credit and the market and issue size of corporate bonds. In our opinion, the results indicate that there is a positive relationship between the development of the corporate bond market and the banking sector. These findings indicate that increased demand for bank loans induced the issuance of bonds by financial institutions which, in turn, may have led to the development of corporate bond markets in Asia.
A Lumped-Element Directional Coupler With High Isolation for Mobile RFID Reader

A lumped-element directional coupler with a high isolation characteristic for mobile RFID reader systems is proposed and experimentally demonstrated. Compared with the conventional lumped-element circuit, the proposed structure utilizes compensation capacitors and achieves a very high isolation despite low quality factor on-chip inductors. It was fabricated on a high-resistivity silicon substrate and showed an isolation of 79 dB, a coupling level of 14.8 dB, and an insertion loss of 1.74 dB at 910 MHz.
Trust Assessment in Online Social Networks

Assessing trust in online social networks (OSNs) is critical for many applications such as online marketing and network security. It is a challenging problem, however, due to the difficulties of handling complex social network topologies and conducting accurate assessment in these topologies. To address these challenges, we model trust by proposing the three-valued subjective logic (3VSL) model. 3VSL properly models the uncertainties that exist in trust, thus is able to compute trust in arbitrary graphs. We theoretically prove the capability of 3VSL based on the Dirichlet-Categorical (DC) distribution and its correctness in arbitrary OSN topologies. Based on the 3VSL model, we further design the AssessTrust (AT) algorithm to accurately compute the trust between any two users connected in an OSN. We validate 3VSL against two real-world OSN datasets: Advogato and Pretty Good Privacy (PGP). Experimental results indicate that 3VSL can accurately model the trust between any pair of indirectly connected users in the Advogato and PGP.
A Model of Early Detection and Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder in Young Children

Autism and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are a group of severe developmental disorders that are characterized by 3 core sets of developmental abnormalities: impairment of social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, and restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior. The disorder is far more common than previously thought. There is no cure for autism but it is apparent that early detection followed by early intervention is likely to provide the best chance of long-term beneficial outcome in this condition. Unfortunately, until recently, there had been no validated method of comprehensive early detection of ASD, nor a tool with adequate sensitivity and specificity to be recommended for universal screening of preschool children with ASD. We describe a model of comprehensive early detection and diagnosis of ASD that is achieved by using the resources of primary care workers and a multidisciplinary team with skill and experience in assessing developmental problems in young children and specific expertise in ASD. Both early detection and diagnosis may be carried out by this team in collaboration with parents and primary care professionals and can result in high rates of detection and diagnosis of ASD.