Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Privacy Preserving Information Sharing in Modern and Emerging Platforms

Users share a large amount of information with modern platforms such as web platforms and social platforms for various services. However, they face the risk of information leakage because modern platforms still lack proper security policies. Existing security policies, such as permission systems and isolation, can help regulate information sharing. However, these policies have problems, such as coarse granularity, bad usability, and incompleteness, especially when new features are introduced. I investigate the security impacts of new features in web and mobile platforms and find design problems that lead to user information leakage. Based on these analyses, I propose design principles for permission systems that mediate how information should be shared in modern and emerging platforms, such as web and social platforms, to provide functionality with privacy preserved. I aim to design permission systems that only allow least-privilege information access. Specifically, I utilize program analysis and natural language processing to understand how applications use sensitive data and correlate these data with their functionality. With this understanding, I design schemes that ask for user consent about unexpected information access and automatically reduce overprivileged access. I provide guidelines for platform designers to build their permission systems according to respective adversary models and resources. In particular, I implement the new permission system for social platforms and Internet of Things (IoT) platforms that enable least-privilege information sharing. For the social platforms, I incorporate the primitives of Opaque handle, Opaque display, and User-driven access control (OOU) to design a least-privilege, user-friendly, developer-friendly, and feature-rich permission system. According to my study on Facebook, OOU can be applied to remove or replace 81.2% of sensitive permission instances without affecting functionality. For IoT platforms, I present a new authorization framework, SmartAuth, that supports user-centric, semantic-based authorization. SmartAuth automatically collects security-relevant information from an IoT application’s description, code, and annotations, and generates an authorization user interface to bridge the gap between the functionalities explained to the user and the operations the application actually performs.
Multilayered reinforcement learning for complicated collision avoidance problems

We have proposed the collision avoidance methods in a multirobot system based on the information exchanged by the "LOCISS: Locally Communicable Infrared Sensory System", which is developed by the authors. One of the problems in the LOCISS based methods is that the number of situations which should be considered increases very much when the number of the robots and stationary obstacles in the working environment increases. In order to reduce the required computational power and memory capacity for such a large number of situations, we propose, in this paper, a multilayered reinforcement learning scheme to acquire appropriate collision avoidance behaviors. The feasibility and the performance of the proposed scheme is examined through the experiment using actual mobile robots.
Analysis of clinical trials of biosimilar infliximab (CT-P13) and comparison against historical clinical studies with the infliximab reference medicinal product

Objective: To examine whether efficacy, safety and pharmacokinetic (PK) data observed with CT-P13 (Remsima®; Inflectra®), an infliximab biosimilar, are similar to those from published reports with the reference medicinal product (RMP; Remicade®) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Methods: Literature searches were performed to identify clinical studies with infliximab RMP. Efficacy, safety and PK data were indirectly compared with data from head-to-head clinical trials of CT-P13 and RMP. Results: CT-P13 and RMP produce similar efficacy in patients with RA and AS when compared across clinical studies. There are no substantial differences in the incidence of infusion-related reactions, infections, serious infections, malignancy or lymphoma. PK data in patients with RA are similar in direct comparisons and comparisons with historical data. Conclusion: Efficacy, safety and PK data are highly comparable between CT-P13 and RMP, both in head-to-head clinical studies, and indirect comparisons with historical clinical data for RMP.
EFFECTS OF TOTAL-BODY X-IRRADIATION ON PHOSPHATE ESTERIFICATION AND HYDROLYSIS IN MITOCHONDRIAL PREPARATIONS OF RAT SPLEEN.

Mitochondria that will esterify inorganic phosphate with high efficiency can be prepared from rat spleen. When mitochondria are prepared from spleens of x-irradiated rats (4 hours after 1000 r), no effect on oxidative phosphorylation is apparent. Under experimental conditions that are unfavorable for efficient phosphorylation, such as suboptimal concentration of cytochrome c, the effect of radiation is manifested by further impairment. The data indicate, however, that the impairment is the result of a change in the composition of the mitochondrial preparation, subsequent to a shift in the distribution of cell populations in the irradiated spleen. Consequently, the mitochondrial preparations from tissues of irradiated rats contain larger amounts of phosphatases, the effect of which will be to catalyze the hydrolysis of organic phosphates, notably ADP and ATP, unless their concentrations are kept low by maintenance of efficient phosphor-ylation and trapping. The activity of the phosphatases is not completely suppressed by the presence of fluoride. (auth)
Working hours reduction, financial constraints, and employment: evidence from Korean firms

This study analyzes the effect of reducing working time to a 40-hour week standard on employment, using the data of 1,961 publicly traded firms in Korea. The objective of the study is to empirically estimate the economy-wide effect of this working hours reduction on employment in Korea. This paper also attempts to uncover the effect of financial constraints, defined as the degree of accessibility to finance, on employment stability or sustainability. Some economic theories suggest that financial constraints have mixed or conflicting effects on employment. Building on labor and finance literature such as Garmaise (2007), easing financial constraints helps firms to optimally substitute capital for labor, thereby decreasing employment. Likewise, financially constrained firms are limited by the availability of internal funds, and a decrease in the external financing cost will increase firm-level human resource investment, such as employment. Using a longitudinal data on publicly listed companies in Korea, the author examines variations in the timing of implementing the working hours reduction in terms of establishment size to see if the effect of working hours reduction on employment differs with the degree of financial constraints of firms. This paper finds that the economy-wide effect on employment of work-hours reduction is positive, approximately 3.5% increase in employment. The results, however, show that there is no effect of the working hours reduction on employment in less financially constrained firms or larger corporations, whereas a substantial positive effect on employment is in smaller firms or financially constrained firms, supporting the Garmaise’s prediction.
Performance analysis of cooperative communication systems with imperfect channel state information

Space-time coding has demonstrated that the deployment of multiple antennas at the transmitter allows for simultaneous increase in throughput and reliability. However, the use of antenna arrays is impractical for deployment in some practical scenarios. Therefore, cooperative diversity has been recently introduced for realizing transmit diversity. Most of the literature in cooperative diversity assume perfect channel state information (CSI). However, in practice, imperfect CSI should be considered. In this thesis, we first investigate the performance of cooperative communications with imperfect CSI, where the channel estimates are obtained by pilot symbols. We present an exact bit error probability expression in the presence of channel estimation errors. We also study the effect of imperfect CSI in two-way multi-relay cooperative networks when the max-min relay selection is used. We derive an exact expression for the outage probability based on which a novel optimum power allocation scheme is proposed.
Plate modes in langasite

The characteristics of plate modes propagating under Pt grating in rotated Y-cuts of LGS were simulated as functions of the cut angle and plate thickness. Quasi-symmetric and quasi-anti-symmetric modes, which can be excited in rotated YX-cuts, and SH-polarized modes propagating in rotated Y-cuts with propagation direction normal to the X-axis demonstrated high electromechanical coupling up to 2.7%, in some orientations combined with zero TCF. The variation of the mode characteristics with plate thickness was investigated in YX and YZ cuts as the typical examples of the two cut families. The effect of metal film at the plate bottom on electromechanical coupling of different modes was investigated.
Wireless Internet access with DECT

In this paper we focus on wireless Internet access with DECT using PPP as convergence protocol between the IP layer and the DECT air interface. We examine the DECT DLC layer services with regard to the requirements of wireless Internet access. Based on this examination we propose three approaches for wireless Internet access with DECT and analyze them with regard to delay and error correction capabilities. Furthermore, we demonstrate some shortcomings of DECT which lead to performance degradation, as well as data and semantic inconsistencies. In our opinion it is necessary to solve these problems, to achieve efficient data communication with DECT.
Predictors of Influenza Vaccine

A self administered questionnaire with items derived from the Health Belief Model was mailed to a random sample of workers prior to a worksite influenza vaccine program in this descriptive study of 207 service and clerical workers. The researchers investigated the utility of the Health Belief Model in predicting influenza vaccine acceptance. A second postcard questionnaire was mailed after the program to verify the vaccination status. Workers who received the vaccine had higher scores for susceptibility, seriousness, benefits, cues to action, knowledge, and health motivation and lower scores for barriers than did workers who did not receive a vaccine. Logistic regression analysis revealed the importance of benefits, barriers, and cues to action in predicting influenza vaccine acceptance. Study results suggest education and program efforts directed toward increasing benefits, dispelling myths about influenza and the vaccine, reducing barriers, and developing a campaign to increase program awareness may increase workers' vaccine acceptance.
Regulation of c-erbA-alpha messenger RNA species in tadpole erythrocytes by thyroid hormone.

Putative thyroid hormone (TH) nuclear receptors have been detected in several tissues of Rana catesbeiana tadpoles. T3 receptor number (sites per nucleus) in red blood cells (RBCs) and tail increases substantially just before metamorphic climax or in response to exogenous TH; in contrast, receptor number in liver remains relatively constant. TH receptors in mammals and birds are thought to be encoded by a c-erbA gene. In the present study, two c-erbA cDNAs, one prepared from Xenopus laevis oocytes (XenTR alpha 1) and one prepared from Rana catesbeiana tail (RC12), were used to examine the c-erbA-related mRNA species in Rana catesbeiana tissues and determine their role in the TH induction of tadpole RBC receptor number. XenTR alpha 1 encodes a protein with T3-binding properties typical of TH receptors. RC12 is almost 99% homologous with XenTR alpha 1 at the amino acid level and contains all of the putative T3-binding region and most of the DNA-binding region. Using either cDNA as a probe, it was found that two major species of c-erbA-related mRNA species (2.6 and 4.0 kilobases) were clearly evident in tadpole RBCs, tail, and liver. A third, more diffuse band (approximately 5.0 kilobases) was observed in RBC and tail. In RBCs, but not in liver, the combined level of c-erbA-related mRNA species was increased during spontaneous metamorphosis or after administration of TH. Furthermore, the TH-induced increase in both c-erbA-related mRNA species and receptor number in RBCs was prevented if actinomycin-D was administered with TH. (ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Control of Expression of the Arginine Deiminase Operon of Streptococcus gordonii by CcpA and Flp

ABSTRACT In Streptococcus gordonii DL1, inactivation of the ccpA gene and a gene encoding an Fnr-like protein (Flp) demonstrated that CcpA was essential for carbohydrate catabolite repression and that Flp was required for optimal expression and anaerobic induction of the arginine deiminase system.
LightMon: Apportioning the Effect of Light Switching Events on the Electricity Consumption of Buildings

A major share of the electricity consumption in buildings is caused by the lighting installation. In contrast to other consumers of electricity, the components for lighting are distributed over the entire building. Therefore, measuring the electric energy spent for lighting with the appropriate level of detail is a very costly endeavor. In order to mitigate the underlying problem, we developed the LightMon system which correlates light switching events obtained from a Building Automation Network (BAN) with power measurements on the mains distribution level. Combining both sources of information allows our system to estimate the electricity consumption for each light individually with an estimation error below 11.34%. The system adapts automatically by observing switching events and their effects on the power consumption. This adaptation occurs during normal building operation without explicit training phase. In addition to the above mentioned characteristics, the system can be deployed in most buildings with commercial use. The LightMon system facilitates comprehensive information gathering on the electricity consumption of buildings, enabling advanced energy optimizations.
Draft Genome Sequence of Telmatospirillum siberiense 26-4b1, an Acidotolerant Peatland Alphaproteobacterium Potentially Involved in Sulfur Cycling

ABSTRACT The facultative anaerobic chemoorganoheterotrophic alphaproteobacterium Telmatospirillum siberiense 26-4b1 was isolated from a Siberian peatland. We report here a 6.20-Mbp near-complete high-quality draft genome sequence of T. siberiense that reveals expected and novel metabolic potential for the genus Telmatospirillum, including genes for sulfur oxidation.
Detection and enumeration of bacteria in soil by direct DNA extraction and polymerase chain reaction

In order to develop a rapid and specific detection test for bacteria in soil, we improved a method based on the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Each step of the protocol, including direct lysis of cells, DNA purification, and PCR amplification, was optimized. To increase the efficiency of lysis, a step particularly critical for some microorganisms which resist classical techniques, we used small soil samples (100 mg) and various lytic treatments, including sonication, microwave heating, and thermal shocks. Purification of nucleic acids was achieved by passage through up to three Elutip d columns. Finally, PCR amplifications were optimized via biphasic protocols using booster conditions, lower denaturation temperatures, and addition of formamide. Two microorganisms were used as models: Agrobacterium tumefaciens, which is naturally absent from the soil used and was inoculated to calibrate the validity of the protocol, and Frankia spp. , an actinomycete indigenous to the soil used. Specific primers were characterized either in the plasmid-borne vir genes for A. tumefaciens or in the variable regions of the 16S ribosomal gene for Frankia spp. Specific detection of the inoculated A. tumefaciens strain was routinely obtained when inocula ranged from 10(7) to 10(3) cells. Moreover, the strong correlation we observed between the size of the inocula and the results of the PCR reactions permitted assessment of the validity of the protocol in enumerating the number of microbial cells present in a soil sample. This allowed us to estimate the indigenous population of Frankia spp. at 0.2 x 10(5) genomes (i.e., amplifiable target sequences) per g of soil.
Exploring the Dynamics of E-waste Disposal Strategies in Tamale, Ghana

Globalised inter-connected world; changing patterns of world standards and norms; and the emergence of consumerism have all drastically shaped the generation and management of e-waste. Cities in developing countries are grappling with developing sustainable strategies to dealing with e-waste and therefore households are compelled to fashion their own disposal strategies. This article examined some of these disposal strategies and the factors that influenced their adoption in Tamale, a growing city in northern Ghana. Data for the study were collected using different techniques including questionnaire survey and key informant interviews. The predominant disposal strategies that emerged were selling e-waste as scrap; donating to other people as gifts; selling as second hand product; disposing with other domestic wastes or combination of any of the strategies. These informal management strategies were influenced by respondents’ age, education level and income. It is recommended that the observed disposal strategies can be articulated in Ghana’s search for definitive e-waste management policies that are environmentally friendly, socially acceptable and economically viable. Keyword : E-waste, Disposal strategy, Ghana, Recycling, Legislations
Assessing the Organisational Structure ofMicrofinance Institutions Using Data Envelopment Analysis

We apply Data Envelopment Analysis to compare the relative efficiency of different forms of Microfinance Institutions (MFI): Banks, cooperatives, NonGovernemental Organizations (NGOs) and Non Bank Financial Institutions. We find that that MFI that operate as NGOs are more technically efficient than bank MFIs. Using the same inputs (labor, physical and financial asset), NGOs serve more clients (number of borrowers or depositors) than Bank MFIs.
Assessment of contaminated sediments with an indoor freshwater/sediment microcosm assay

This study was conducted to assess the feasibility of using a 2‐L, indoor microcosm assay to evaluate five contaminated sediments (A, B, C, D, and E). Toxic potential was deduced in the light of general contamination of sediments, pollutant partitioning in microcosms, and biological responses of species (Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata, Lemna minor, Daphnia magna, Hyalella azteca, Chironomus riparius): E
Evaluation of intravenous human fibrinolysin as a treatment for recent intravascular thrombosis.

Partial vulvectomy evidently cured this patient of her original disease, but the late contractures made. her a semi-invalid. Modem surgery should be planned not only to remove completely the original disease but to restore normal function as far as possible. It is not enough to excise tissue and "pull it together" or allow the defect created to "granulate in", since this invites such problems as secondary wound healing, and later, fibrosis, leading to contractures and loss of notmal function. It is suggested that the operation outlined, which has given such excellent functional results as a late procedure, be planned at the time of primary closure, and that the repair be incorporated with the original operation. This is doubly important in the case of younger women, and will obviate the possibility of excising diseased tissue inadequatelv for fear of residual scarring and its enstuing problems. Fig. 2. -Appearance of vulva four months after perineal reconstruction.
Competency Development for Entry-Level Public Parks and Recreation Professionals

Competencies are the skills, knowledge, and personal characteristics needed for successful performance in a job. There are several means of implementing competencies into an organization such as (a) identifying training and development needs for employees; (b) infusing hiring criteria including job descriptions, interview questions, and screening benchmarks; (c) establishing employee appraisal standards; and (d) aiding in career self-management. Competencies can also play a greater role if the agency becomes competency driven. Becoming competency driven means competency implementation at all levels of the organization including the board, valuing training and development by providing necessary resources and by viewing competencies as the cornerstone of human resources management and organizational goals, objectives, and strategic planning. Competencies have been prominent in the market (commercial) and nonprofit sectors for some time, but research on public-sector competencies, and in parks and recreation in particular, is limited. Studies in parks and recreation have focused on chief executive officers in public agencies, commercial and resort recreation entry-level employees, public park and recreation board members, entry-level public employees, and recreational sports professionals. Although there is little consensus on a single competency model, there are several similarities that span the profession. The purpose of this study was to determine the competencies needed by entry-level employees in public parks and recreation agencies. To do this, a Delphi technique was used to collect data from entry-level professionals who had less than 5 years of experience in the field. Sixteen jurors participated in three rounds of the Delphi process, which resulted in the Entry-Level Competency Framework (ELCF). The ELCF had three levels of specificity, with the broadest level being the five general competency categories, under which were 15 primary competency areas and 53 specific competencies. The most important specific competencies included (a) the ability to communicate clearly with customers, (b) the ability to listen to staff and customers, (c) the ability to deal with the public, (d) the ability to communicate clearly with staff, (e) knowing how to act professionally, and (f) the ability to manage multiple tasks. Although further research is needed to test and refine the ELCF, this is a starting point for what skills, knowledge, abilities, and characteristics professionals need to be successful in entry-level positions in public parks and recreation agencies.