Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Under Consideration for Publication in J. Functional Programming Big-step Normalisation

Traditionally, decidability of conversion for typed λ-calculi is established by showing that small-step reduction is confluent and strongly normalising. Here we investigate an alternative approach employing a recursively defined normalisation function which we show to be terminating and which reflects and preserves conversion. We apply our approach to the simply-typed λ-calculus with explicit substitutions and βη-equality, a system which is not strongly normalising. We also show how the construction can be extended to System T with the usual β-rules for the recursion combinator. Our approach is practical, since it does verify an actual implementation of normalisation which, unlike normalisation by evaluation, is first order. An important feature of our approach is that we are using logical relations to establish equational soundness (identity of normal forms reflects the equa-tional theory), instead of the usual syntactic reasoning using the Church-Rosser property of a term rewriting system.
Evaluating the performance of BSBL methodology for EEG source localization on a realistic head model

In this paper, we evaluate the performance of block sparse Bayesian learning (BSBL) method for EEG source localization. By exploiting the internal block structure, the BSBL method solves the ill‐posed inverse problem more efficiently than other methods that do not consider block structure. Simulation experiments were conducted on a realistic head model obtained by segmentation of MRI images of the head. Two definitions of blocks were considered: Brodmann areas and automated anatomical labeling (AAL). The experiments were performed both with and without the presence of noise. Six different noise levels were considered having SNR values from 5 dB to 30 dB with 5dB increment. The evaluation reveals several potential findings—first, BSBL is more likely to produce better source localization than sparse Bayesian learning (SBL), however, this is true up until a limited number of simultaneously active areas only. Experimental results show that for 71‐channel electrodes setup BSBL outperforms SBL for up to three simultaneously active blocks. From four simultaneously active blocks SBL turns out to be marginally better and the difference between them is statistically insignificant. Second, different anatomical block structures such as Brodmann areas or AAL does not seem to produce any significant difference in EEG source localization relying on BSBL. Third, even when the block partitions are not known exactly BSBL ensures better localization than SBL as soon as block structure persists in the signal. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Imaging Syst Technol, 27, 46–56, 2017
Effect of an acute consumption of a moderate amount of ethanol on plasma endocannabinoid levels in humans.

AIMS Animal experiments have shown that the endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays an important role in the regulation of ethanol intake. We investigated these effects in healthy volunteers who consumed a moderate amount of ethanol (red wine) and measured plasma levels of the endocannabinoids (ECs) anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) to test whether alcohol consumption influences the ECS in humans. Grape juice or plain non-sparkling water served as non-alcoholic control liquids. METHODS In total, 55 adults were enrolled in this study and assigned to one of three groups drinking either 250 ml of red wine (28.0 g of ethanol, <0.8 g of sugar and 187.5 kcal), grape juice (41.0 g of sugar, 187.5 kcal) or plain water within 10 min. Twenty minutes and 45 min thereafter, AEA, 2-AG, ethanol and glucose levels were determined from venous plasma samples. RESULTS AEA, 2-AG and plasma glucose levels were significantly reduced after red wine consumption. AEA had its maximal decline at 20 min (from 0.23 ± 0.12 to 0.18 ± 0.07 ng/ml, P < 0.01), whereas the nadir of 2-AG was seen after 45 min and dropped from 6.68 ± 4.13 to 5.49 ± 3.22 ng/ml (P < 0.05). Grape juice highly affected blood glucose level after 20 min, with a return to baseline after 45 min. ECs remained almost unchanged by this intervention. Water intake had no significant effect on AEA (0.21 ± 0.08 at baseline and 0.19 ± 0.06 after 45 min) but resulted in a gradual reduction in 2-AG concentrations which became significant at 45 min when compared with baseline. CONCLUSIONS The consumption of a moderate amount of red wine reduces plasma AEA and 2-AG concentrations, whereas the volume and caloric equivalent of the sugar containing, non-alcoholic liquid grape juice does not affect plasma ECs. Plain water has a differential effect on the ECS by reducing 2-AG concentrations without affecting AEA.
ADAPTIVE ALGORITHMS FOR PERSONAL AGENTS

Abstarct--This paper presents three projects which represent work in progress. First, a Computerized Adaptive Tutor (CAT) using a novel domain knowledge representation model is discussed. Second, the abstraction to Web documents is proposed using a self-supervised backpropagation network which is trained on alphanumeric characters. Finally, a data visualization scheme using a spirally weighted grid layout for Web documents.
Cattle encephalon glycoside and ignotin injection improves cognitive impairment in APPswe/PS1dE9 mice used as multitarget anti-Alzheimer’s drug candidates

Background Cattle encephalon glycoside and ignotin injection (CEGI), a multitargeted neurotrophic drug, has been widely used in the treatment of central and peripheral nerve injuries, such as stroke, hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy, and diabetic neuropathy in the People’s Republic of China. However, data regarding the effect of CEGI on Alzheimer’s disease (AD) remain scarce. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of CEGI on learning and memory in an APPswe/PS1dE9 double-transgenic mouse model, a suitable animal model of AD, and elucidate its possible mechanisms. Materials and methods Five-month-old APP/PS1 mice were intraperitoneally administered 6.6 mL/kg or 13.2 mL/kg of CEGI for 1 month. After 1 month of administration, all mice received Morris water maze training and a probe test. Mouse brain sections were detected by standard biochemical and immunohistochemical measures. Results CEGI treatment significantly improved the spatial learning and memory deficits and decreased cerebral amyloid-β42 levels in brain homogenates of APP/PS1 mice. CEGI treatment elevated the activities of superoxide dismutase, and reduced the levels of malondialdehyde. CEGI attenuated neuronal damage in the hippocampus of APP/PS1 mice and upregulated protein and gene expression of Bcl-2 and the ratio of Bcl-2/Bax. CEGI treatment decreased the number of Iba1+ activated microglia in the cortex of the APP/PS1 mice. Conclusion Our results showed that CEGI prevents memory impairment, possibly by decreasing the amyloid-β42 levels in APP/PS1 mice and inhibiting oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation, making CEGI a promising therapeutic agent for AD.
Hyperspectral classification using an adaptive spectral-spatial kernel-based low-rank approximation

ABSTRACT This paper presents a novel adaptive spectral-spatial kernel-based low-rank approximation method for spectral-spatial hyperspectral image (HSI) classification. In the first of three steps of the proposed method, superpixel and image patch are used together to calculate the weights in the homogeneous region. Second, an adaptive spectral-spatial kernel is defined to capture the spectral and spatial feature of HSIs. In the final step, an adaptive spectral-spatial kernel and low-rank approximation are integrated into a decision model to perform HSI classification. Extensive experimental results on Indian Pines and Pavia University demonstrate the superiority of the proposed classifier when compared with other competing classifiers.
Ownership Structure and Corporate Performance

This paper investigates the relation between the ownership structure and the performance of corporations if ownership is made multi-dimensional and also is treated as an endogenous variable. To our knowledge, no prior study has treated the corporate control problem this way. We find no statistically significant relation between ownership structure and firm performance. This finding is consistent with the view that diffuse ownership, while it may exacerbate some agency problems, also yields compensating advantages that generally offset such problems. Consequently, for data that reflect market-mediated ownership structures, no systematic relation between ownership structure and firm performance is to be expected.
‘I feel like I have a disadvantage’: how socio-economically disadvantaged students make the decision to study at a prestigious university

ABSTRACT This paper presents findings from an interpretative phenomenological analysis with 20 students from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds who were accepted onto a Foundation Year in Oxford University. It explores the factors that impacted on their decision to apply to a prestigious university and student’s views on their transition to the prestigious university. The analysis highlighted four key factors: (1) The complex relationship students had with their schools and the wider education system; (2) The strong sense of agency they showed in overcoming a range of systemic and structural barriers; (3) Social relationships with family members, peers and the wider community; (4) The importance of the Foundation Year model in supporting transitions to the university. The identified factors have two key implications: (1) a need to engage in system-wide structural reform that empowers students to develop an agentic approach to HE choices and (2) a need for prestigious institutions to ensure that schools and teachers are empowered with cultural capital and knowledge of the admissions processes to support students’ applications in an equitable way.
GCP REQUIREMENT FOR HIGH-RESOLUTION SATELLITE MAPPING

High-resolution images have to be geometrically and precisely processed with ground information, such as ground control points (GCPs) and digital elevation models (DEM) to generate accurate map products and 3D geospatial information. Consequently, the 3D multi-sensor physical model developed at Canada Centre for Remote Sensing for medium-resolution satellite images was adapted for these new high-resolution data, such as SPOT-5, EROS, IKONOS and QuickBird. To evaluate the impact of GCP accuracy in the geometric correction process of the highest resolution data available, QuickBird (0.61 m), different methods of collection were used with accuracies varying from 10 m to 0.10 m. Good quality results (4-5 m in both axes), as related to input accuracy, were obtained when using GCPs collected from 10-m accurate map. Medium quality results (3-4 m in both axes), as related to input accuracy, were obtained when using GCPs collected from 1-m pixel orthophotos (3-5 m positioning accuracy) These medium quality results are mainly due to differential errors caused by a lack of homogeneity between the orthophotos. High quality results (0.8 m and 1.4 m in both axes), as related to input accuracy, were obtained when using GCPs collected from differential GPS (0.20-m accuracy) and hand-held commercial GPS (2-3 m accuracy), respectively. These geopositioning accuracies meet the 1:5,000 to 1:10,000 mapping standard, respectively. Consequently, depending upon the positioning accuracy required by the user and their applications, the appropriate GCP collection method can be chosen to maximize scientific and managing aspects.
Modeling Seasonal Influenza Transmission and Its Association with Climate Factors in Thailand Using Time-Series and ARIMAX Analyses

Influenza is a worldwide respiratory infectious disease that easily spreads from one person to another. Previous research has found that the influenza transmission process is often associated with climate variables. In this study, we used autocorrelation and partial autocorrelation plots to determine the appropriate autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model for influenza transmission in the central and southern regions of Thailand. The relationships between reported influenza cases and the climate data, such as the amount of rainfall, average temperature, average maximum relative humidity, average minimum relative humidity, and average relative humidity, were evaluated using cross-correlation function. Based on the available data of suspected influenza cases and climate variables, the most appropriate ARIMA(X) model for each region was obtained. We found that the average temperature correlated with influenza cases in both central and southern regions, but average minimum relative humidity played an important role only in the southern region. The ARIMAX model that includes the average temperature with a 4-month lag and the minimum relative humidity with a 2-month lag is the appropriate model for the central region, whereas including the minimum relative humidity with a 4-month lag results in the best model for the southern region.
Parenting and personality as predictors of child and adolescent internalizing and externalizing problem behavior

The theoretical basis of the Ghent Parental Behavior Scale (GPBS) originates from sociallearning theories. Parents rate the frequency of their behavior towards a target child between 8 and 14 years old and children rate the behavior of their parents. Confirmatory factor analyses provide evidence for a solid factor structure in different samples. Nine scales are distinguished: Positive parenting, Monitoring, Rules, Discipline, Inconsistent discipline, Harsh punishment, Ignoring, Material rewarding and Autonomy. It is also feasible to distinguish two second-order factors: support and negative control. The internal consistency is acceptable to good. Correlations between ratings of parents and children are positive and significant. We also find evidence for the assumption that positive parenting is negatively associated with problem behavior and stress in parenting, and in addition, that inadequate parenting is positively related to problem behavior and stress in parenting.
Factors that influence priming in young children

An empirical exploration of factors that facilitate priming in young children was undertaken utilizing sequentially degraded pictures (fragpix) developed by Snodgrass and her colleagues. The identification of fragmented pictures was studied by 288 children across four experiments. In the first two experiments abbreviated sets of fragpix were generated for use with young children. Experiments 3 and 4 manipulated five attributes of the priming stimulus to measure their effect on direct and indirect tests of memory. Experiment 3 was a scaling study that delineated ageassociated identification thresholds for fragpix. It also examined hypotheses regarding the impact of prior exposure and perceptual closure on indirect and direct tests of memory. During the exposure and test condition, 3-, 4-, 5and 8-year olds were shown fragpix in descending degrees of fragmentation until they correctly named the picture. Snodgrass proposed perceptual closure as an explanatory mechanism for identification of incomplete pictures. To explore this hypothesis, following identification of each fragpic, half the children were shown the completed picture. This manipulation had no facilitative effect on identification or recall of fragmented pictures. Two measures of prior exposure, priming and transfer, were also Factors that Influence iii computed. Age differences were found on picture identification, free recall, and picture recognition measures of discrimination and response bias. A linear trend was revealed on measures of priming for picture identification, and for picture recognition but
Discovery of a Low-Eccentricity, High-Inclination Kuiper Belt Object at 58 AU

We report the discovery of the first trans-Neptunian object, designated 2004 XR190, with a low-eccentricity orbit beyond the 2 : 1 mean motion resonance. Fitting an orbit to 23 astrometric observations spread out over 12 months yields an orbit of a = 57.2 ± 0.4, e = 0.08 ± 0.04, and i = 46. °6. All viable orbits have perihelia distances q > 49 AU. The very high orbital inclination of this extended scattered disk object might be explained by several models, but its existence again points to a large as-yet undiscovered population of trans-Neptunian objects with large orbital perihelia and inclination.
Human identification using facial comparative descriptions

Eyewitness descriptions are vital for many criminal investigations, although typically still require manual discovery of possible suspects. Soft biometrics introduce a possibility to automatically search databases based on biometric features obtained from verbal descriptions. In this paper we introduce the use of comparative human descriptions for facial identification. Twenty-seven comparative traits are used to accurately describe facial features. The Elo rating system is utilized to determine continuous biometric features from multiple comparative descriptions. Experiments on the Soton gait database demonstrate a 96.7% identification accuracy with just three comparisons.
Melatonin Inhibits GnRH-1, GnRH-3 and GnRH Receptor Expression in the Brain of the European Sea Bass, Dicentrarchus labrax

Several evidences supported the existence of melatonin effects on reproductive system in fish. In order to investigate whether melatonin is involved in the modulation of GnRH systems in the European sea bass, we have injected melatonin (0.5 μg/g body mass) in male specimens. The brain mRNA transcript levels of the three GnRH forms and the five GnRH receptors present in this species were determined by real time quantitative PCR. Our findings revealed day–night variations in the brain expression of GnRH-1, GnRH-3 and several GnRH receptors (dlGnRHR-II-1c, -2a), which exhibited higher transcript levels at mid-light compared to mid-dark phase of the photocycle. Moreover, an inhibitory effect of melatonin on the nocturnal expression of GnRH-1, GnRH-3, and GnRH receptors subtypes 1c, 2a and 2b was also demonstrated. Interestingly, the inhibitory effect of melatonin affected the expression of hypophysiotrophic GnRH forms and GnRH receptors that exhibit day–night fluctuations, suggesting that exogenous melatonin reinforce physiological mechanisms already established. These interactions between melatoninergic and GnRH systems could be mediating photoperiod effects on reproductive and other rhythmic physiological events in the European sea bass.
The Operational GFDL Coupled Hurricane–Ocean Prediction System and a Summary of Its Performance

Abstract The past decade has been marked by significant advancements in numerical weather prediction of hurricanes, which have greatly contributed to the steady decline in forecast track error. Since its operational implementation by the U.S. National Weather Service (NWS) in 1995, the best-track model performer has been NOAA’s regional hurricane model developed at the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory (GFDL). The purpose of this paper is to summarize the major upgrades to the GFDL hurricane forecast system since 1998. These include coupling the atmospheric component with the Princeton Ocean Model, which became operational in 2001, major physics upgrades implemented in 2003 and 2006, and increases in both the vertical resolution in 2003 and the horizontal resolution in 2002 and 2005. The paper will also report on the GFDL model performance for both track and intensity, focusing particularly on the 2003 through 2006 hurricane seasons. During this period, the GFDL track errors were the lowest of all the.
Information Extraction from German Patient Records via Hybrid Parsing and Relation Extraction Strategies

In this paper, we report on first attempts and findings to analyzing German patient records, using a hybrid parsing architecture and a combination of two relation extraction strategies. On a practical level, we are interested in the extraction of concepts and relations among those concepts, a necessary cornerstone for building medical information systems. The parsing pipeline consists of a morphological analyzer, a robust chunk parser adapted to Latin phrases used in medical diagnosis, a repair rule stage, and a probabilistic context-free parser that respects the output from the chunker. The relation extraction stage is a combination of two systems: SProUT, a shallow processor which uses hand-written rules to discover relation instances from local text units and DARE which extracts relation instances from complete sentences, using rules that are learned in a bootstrapping process, starting with semantic seeds. Two small experiments have been carried out for the parsing pipeline and the relation extraction stage.
Perceived Teacher Discrimination and Academic Achievement Among Urban Caribbean Black and African American Youth: School Bonding and Family Support as Protective Factors

This study examined the relations of perceived teacher discrimination, school bonding, and family support to academic achievement among 1,122 urban Caribbean Black and African American adolescents. Results revealed that teacher discrimination was negatively related to academic achievement for urban Caribbean Black and African American adolescents with school bonding and emotional family support mediating the relationship. School bonding was a protective factor for both adolescent groups, but emotional family support for urban Caribbean Black adolescents only. Implications for school counselors and educators are discussed.
CYC based query expansion framework for effective image retrieval

We study several semantic concept-based query expansion and re-ranking scheme and compare different ontology-based expansion methods in image search and retrieval. In particular, we exploit the functions of CYC Knowledge Base for concept expansion. Furthermore, we combine CYC with our image retrieval framework - Pixearch to expand the user's queries and re-rank the searching results. With the visualized baseline results and user's interactive pruning, the image retrieval precision and recall can yield significantly increase. Preliminary experiments have been able to demonstrate that the proposed retrieval mechanism has the potential to outperform unaided approaches and other query expansion methods.
Analyzing Refactorings' Impact on Regression Test Cases

Software refactoring is to improve readability, maintainability and expansibility of software by adjusting its internal structure, whereas the external behaviors of software are not changed. Although software refactoring should not change the external behaviors of software systems, they might make a regression test case obsolete (with syntax and runtime errors) or fail. People have investigated which refactorings had an influence on regression test case. However, how test cases are influenced by refactorings and what kind of errors might be introduced remain unknown. To this end, in this paper, we proposed an approach to analyze refactorings' impact on regression test cases. On one hand, we analyzed why regression test cases failed. On the other hand, we analyzed the influence of refactorings on software interfaces. Based on the analysis, we built up a mapping between refactorings and test case failure. Such a mapping can be used to guide test case repair automation where test cases are made obsolete by refactorings. The approach was evaluated on five open-source applications. Evaluation results suggest that the precision of the approach is greater than 80%.