Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Testing the Normality Assumption in Limited Dependent Variable Models

Limited dependent variable (LDV) models arise when the dependent variable is restricted in some way. The examples are numerous and contain situations (i) where the dependent variable is restricted and takes a limiting value with a positive probability and (ii) where it can take only one of a finite set of values (e.g., when modeling qualitative responses). For the analysis of LDV models, several estimation and inferential results are presently available (e.g., see Tobin [1958], Amemiya [1973], Fair [1977], Olsen [1978], and Pratt [1981]) and these are being increasingly used in economic modeling. These results are applicable under a set of assumptions which typically include disturbance "normality". The consequences of violation of the normality assumption in LDV situations can be quite severe since, unlike the usual regression model, the maximum likelihood estimators (MLE) can be inconsistent under non-normality. Robinson [1982] has shown this by taking the disturbances as uniform variates. Through a simulation study, Arabmazar and Schmidt [1982] demonstrated that the asymptotic bias (inconsistency) can be quite substantial if normality is wrongly assumed (see also Goldberger [1980], and White [1979]). In addition to the logistic and student t distributions, which have closely similar shapes with the normal distribution, and Laplace distribution considered in Goldberger [1980], using the equation (1.4) of Robinson [1982, p. 28], it can be shown that under most of the commonly used non-normal distributions in the statistical literature, the MLE will be inconsistent if normality is a misspecification. For merely general theoretical interest, it is an open question whether normality assumption is necessary for consistency. (While there may be some pathological situations, in particular, with all explanatory variables being discrete in which it may be possible to construct some non-normal distributions which will not lead to inconsistency, however the possibility of inconsistency in the event of non-normality is sufficient reason for testing normality and, for the truncated sample cases, the truncated normal distributions.) Because of sample truncation or censoring, the normality tests developed for
Adaptive control for time-delay Markovian jump linear systems with state-dependant switching

In this note, we investigate exponential mean-square stability for a class of time-delay Markovian jump linear systems with state-dependant switching. By solving a set of Linear matrix inequalities (LMIs), a state-feedback nonlinear controller is obtained, which guarantees globally exponential stability of such systems in the mean-square sense. Based on this, an adaptive state-feedback control law is then designed with less knowledge of the state-dependent generator. An illustrative numerical example is provided to demonstrate the validity of the proposed approach.
Mesothelioma associated with the shipbuilding industry in coastal Virginia.

A case-control study was undertaken to clarify reasons for a four-fold increased incidence of mesothelioma discovered among white males in coastal Tidewater, Va. , from 1972 to 1978. Sixty-one cases were identified. Interviews with next of kin revealed that the excess was linked to employment in area shipyards. Three-fourths of the cases had been employed in the shipbuilding industry, nearly all beginning employment prior to 1950. Most were career employees, but an increased risk was also found among those who worked only temporarily, mainly during World War II, and were reportedly exposed to asbestos. More of the cases than controls were pipecoverers or pipefitters, but cases were reported to work in a variety of shipyard trades. Few of the mesothelioma cases were heavy smokers, a trend that may be related in part to the competing risks for fatal diseases caused by the interactions of smoking and asbestos exposure. Information obtained by interview for five of the six white females diagnosed with mesothelioma revealed that the husband of four had been employed in the shipbuilding industry.
Strategies for De-identification and Anonymization of Electronic Health Record Data for Use in Multicenter Research Studies

Background:De-identification and anonymization are strategies that are used to remove patient identifiers in electronic health record data. The use of these strategies in multicenter research studies is paramount in importance, given the need to share electronic health record data across multiple environments and institutions while safeguarding patient privacy. Methods:Systematic literature search using keywords of de-identify, deidentify, de-identification, deidentification, anonymize, anonymization, data scrubbing, and text scrubbing. Search was conducted up to June 30, 2011 and involved 6 different common literature databases. A total of 1798 prospective citations were identified, and 94 full-text articles met the criteria for review and the corresponding articles were obtained. Search results were supplemented by review of 26 additional full-text articles; a total of 120 full-text articles were reviewed. Results:A final sample of 45 articles met inclusion criteria for review and discussion. Articles were grouped into text, images, and biological sample categories. For text-based strategies, the approaches were segregated into heuristic, lexical, and pattern-based systems versus statistical learning-based systems. For images, approaches that de-identified photographic facial images and magnetic resonance image data were described. For biological samples, approaches that managed the identifiers linked with these samples were discussed, particularly with respect to meeting the anonymization requirements needed for Institutional Review Board exemption under the Common Rule. Conclusions:Current de-identification strategies have their limitations, and statistical learning-based systems have distinct advantages over other approaches for the de-identification of free text. True anonymization is challenging, and further work is needed in the areas of de-identification of datasets and protection of genetic information.
Hybrid models of tumor growth

Cancer is a complex, multiscale process in which genetic mutations occurring at a subcellular level manifest themselves as functional changes at the cellular and tissue scale. The multiscale nature of cancer requires mathematical modeling approaches that can handle multiple intracellular and extracellular factors acting on different time and space scales. Hybrid models provide a way to integrate both discrete and continuous variables that are used to represent individual cells and concentration or density fields, respectively. Each discrete cell can also be equipped with submodels that drive cell behavior in response to microenvironmental cues. Moreover, the individual cells can interact with one another to form and act as an integrated tissue. Hybrid models form part of a larger class of individual‐based models that can naturally connect with tumor cell biology and allow for the integration of multiple interacting variables both intrinsically and extrinsically and are therefore perfectly suited to a systems biology approach to tumor growth. WIREs Syst Biol Med 2011 3 115–125 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.102
Optimum stabilization of self-mode-locked quantum dash lasers using dual optical feedback with improved tolerance against phase delay mismatch.

We experimentally investigate the RF linewidth and timing jitter over a wide range of delay tuning in a self-mode-locked two-section quantum dash lasers emitting at ~ 1. 55μm and operating at ~ 21 GHz repetition rate subject to single and dual optical feedback into gain section. Various feedback conditions are investigated and optimum levels determined for narrowest linewidth and reduced timing jitter for both single and dual loop configurations. We demonstrate that dual loop feedback, with the shorter feedback cavity tuned to be fully resonant, followed by fine tuning of the phase of the longer feedback cavity, gives stable narrow RF spectra across the widest delay range, unlike single loop feedback. In addition, for dual loop configurations, under fully resonant conditions, integrated timing jitter is reduced from 3.9 ps to 295 fs [10 kHz-100 MHz], the RF linewidth narrows from 100 kHz to < 1 kHz, with more than 30 dB fundamental side-mode suppression. We show that dual loop optical feedback with separate fine tuning of both external cavities is far superior to single loop feedback, with increased system tolerance against phase delay mismatch, making it a robust and cost-effective technique for developing practical, reliable and low-noise mode-locked lasers, optoelectronic oscillators and pulsed photonic circuits.
Social construction of port sustainability indicators: a case study of Keelung Port

This study developed Port sustainability indicators (PSIs) using social construction of technology (SCOT). A case study of Keelung Port was conducted. An indicator generator was proposed to generate initial PSIs using a linkage-based framework, and the initial PSIs were grouped into environmental, economic, and social aspects. Subsequently, 34 expert-based PSIs were selected by using rough sets theory (RST). The decision group consisted of representatives from the Taiwan International Ports Corporation (TIPC), academic researchers, and industry representatives. Besides the decision group, the following groups were involved in the stakeholder analysis: the Department of Navigation and Aviation, Ministry of Transportation and Communications (DONA, MOTC), industry representatives, legislators, the Keelung City Government (KCG), local Keelung residents, and the general public. The SCOT approach offered a counterbalance to the expert-based approach in developing indicators. For the scientific frame and the operational frame, this study suggested 34 expert-based PSIs and 2 additional indicators chosen by legislators and local Keelung residents: annual traffic fatalities in the area surrounding the port and employment of Keelung residents by the TIPC. For the actors in the public-relations frame, 12 PSIs were suggested, and 10 PSIs were suggested for the actors in the nonprofessional frame.
Behavioral Economics and Agency Problems: Empirical Studies

This thesis focuses on the effects of behavioral phenomena in the context of agency problems. It comprises four research studies based on laboratory experiments and field data. The first study investigates the interaction between trust, efficiency and economic development (chapter 2). Chapters 3 and 4 present two research projects about the impact of social preferences and loss aversion on the functioning of incentive schemes in organizations. Finally, the study described in chapter 5 explores how social preferences influence the performance of group lending contracts in microfinance programs.
Welfare Benefits and Lone Parents' Employment in Great Britain

The analysis pools ten years of General Household Surveys to identify the effects of Britain's welfare benefit system on a lone mother's probability of employment. It confirms the prediction that, because of the implicit 100 percent tax rate in the system, higher nonlabor income (other than welfare benefits) increases the probability while a higher benefit guarantee reduces it. The analysis also confirms that among women who could never be eligible for benefits, higher nonlabor income reduces the probability of employment and the guarantee has no effect.
Optimizing Context-Aware Resource and Network Assignment in Heterogeneous Wireless Networks

This paper discusses the problem of user association and downlink resource allocation in heterogeneous wireless networks (HWNs) where a mobile node (MN) can associate to a single network at a time. A context-aware optimization problem is formulated to maximize the aggregate user-centric profit in the system while taking into consideration the network constraints, user preferences, and the amount of data rate requested by each MN. To achieve its purpose, the formulated problem employs contextual information related to the MN measurements and requirements, the HWN architecture, and the available resources at each network. The user-centric profit is based on the quality of the received signal and the power consumption at the MN. The formulated optimization problem is discrete (binary) with high complexity; based on the continuous relaxation of the problem, a solution with polynomial-time complexity is proposed. It is shown through simulations that the proposed solution achieves a nearoptimal performance in terms of average user-centric profit and percentage of blocked data rate. Moreover, the proposed solution requests lower number of handovers.
Prostaglandin E Inhibits Indomethacin-Induced Gastric Lesions through EP-1 Receptors

Backgrounds and Aims: We examined the effect of various prostaglandin E (PGE) analogs specific to EP receptor subtypes on indomethacin-induced gastric lesions in rats and investigated which EP receptor subtype is involved in the protective action of PGE<sub>2</sub> using EP-receptor knockout mice. Methods: Gastric lesions were induced by subcutaneous administration of indomethacin (35 mg/kg). Gastric motility was measured using a balloon method, while neutrophil chemotaxis determined using a Boyden chamber. Results: Indomethacin-induced gastric lesions were significantly prevented by PGE<sub>2</sub> as well as atropine, and the former effect was mimicked by sulprostone (EP<sub>1</sub>/EP<sub>3</sub>) and 17-phenyl PGE<sub>2</sub> (EP<sub>1</sub>) and antagonized by an EP<sub>1</sub> antagonist, ONO-AE-829. Neither butaprost (EP<sub>2</sub>), ONO-NT-012 (EP<sub>3</sub>) nor 11-deoxy PGE<sub>1</sub> (EP<sub>3</sub>/EP<sub>4</sub>) showed any protection on the lesions. Indomethacin caused a marked increase in gastric motility; the response preceded the onset of lesions and was inhibited by atropine as well as PGE derivatives acting as EP<sub>1</sub> receptors. Neutrophil chemotaxis was inhibited by PGE<sub>2</sub>, butaprost and slightly by 11-deoxy PGE<sub>1</sub>, but not by either 17-phenyl PGE<sub>2</sub>, ONO-NT-012 or atropine. In addition, indomethacin caused damage similarly in both wild-type and knockout mice lacking EP<sub>1</sub> or EP<sub>3</sub> receptors, yet the protective action of PGE<sub>2</sub> was observed in wild-type and EP<sub>3</sub> receptor knockout mice but totally disappeared in mice lacking EP<sub>1</sub> receptors. Conclusion: PGE<sub>2</sub> inhibits indomethacin-induced gastric lesions, through EP<sub>1</sub> receptors, and this effect may be functionally associated with inhibition of gastric motility but not of neutrophil activation/migration.
Dynamic Session Key Exchange Method using Two S-Boxes

This paper presents modifications of the Diffie-Hellman (DH) key exchange method. The presented modifications provide better security than other key exchange methods. We are going to present a dynamic security that simultaneously realizes all the three functions with a high efficiency and then give a security analysis. It also presents secure and dynamic key exchange method. Signature, encryption and key exchange are some of the most important and foundational Crypto-graphical tools. In most cases, they are all needed to provide different secure functions. On the other hand, there are also some proposals on the efficient combination of key exchange. In this paper, we present a dynamic, reliable and secure method for the exchange of session key. Moreover, the proposed modification method could achieve better performance efficiency.
Comparison of 3 D Non-Linear Modeling to Recorded Seismic Response for a Pile Supported Wharf

In engineering practice there is ongoing debate concerning the limitations of 3D structural modeling of wharves and piers for seismic analysis. This paper presents the results of an investigation of the seismic response of Berth 24/25 at the Port of Oakland, California. The primary objectives of this project were to evaluate strong motion data from an instrumentation array at Berth 24/25 and to identify the limitations inherent in capturing the complete dynamic character, including soil structure interaction, of a pier or wharf with a structural model. The numerical model was validated using ground motions recorded during the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake with a twelve channel array placed on and adjacent to the structure. Through a series of simulations, the effect of variation of selected model parameters has been evaluated by comparison to recorded wharf motions. Analyses using design level input motions were performed to evaluate applicability of the full 3D model. The project is expected to serve the professional engineering community by providing guidance in selecting appropriate techniques for seismic analysis and subsequent upgrade of existing port facilities. Introduction Construction of Berth 24/25 at the Port of Oakland (Port) was completed in 1979. The facility has overall dimensions of 493 m length by 20 m width. Wharf support is provided by prestressed vertical and batter piles arranged in a pattern that repeats itself every fifteen meters, and a steel sheet pile cut-off wall running the length of the in-shore side of the facility. A cross section of the wharf and typical section of the 3D structural model are provided in Figures 1a and 1b. On October 17, 1989, Berth 24/25 was subjected to ground motions generated by the Loma Prieta earthquake. Prior to this event the California Seismic Monitoring and Instrumentation Program (CSMIP) had installed a twelve channel array of
Agricultural Workers, Credit Rationing and Family Networks in Rural Mexico

Abstract We use mixed methods and first-hand household data in Mexico to investigate credit practices by households engaged in agricultural wage employment. Quantitative analysis shows evidence of rationing in the formal sector but also suggests the existence of mitigating mechanisms. Qualitative analysis provides additional insights. First, income patterns associated with agricultural wage generate income smoothing needs that are sometimes better met by the informal sector. Second, family networks can perform key functions as gateways to the formal sector, through specific informal arrangements that inject flexibility into formal rules and procedures.
Dao de jing : the book of the way

"Dao De Jing" is one of the richest, most suggestive, and most popular works of philosophy and literature. Composed in China between the late sixth and the late fourth centuries BC, its enigmatic verses have inspired artists, philosophers, poets, religious thinkers, and general readers down to our own times. This new translation, both revelatory and authentic, captures much of the beauty and nuance of the original work. In an extensive and accessible commentary to his translation, Moss Roberts reveals new depths of "Dao De Jing". This edition is distinguished by the literary quality of the translation, its new renderings for a number of the stanzas, and by Roberts's knowledgeable contextualizations. Utilizing recently discovered manuscripts and Chinese scholarship based on them, he is able to shed new light on the work's historical and philosophical contexts. This translation shows that "Dao De Jing" is far more than a work of personal inspiration; it is also a work of universal scope that makes penetrating comments on politics, statecraft, cosmology, aesthetics, and ethics. Roberts brings these themes to our attention, shows how they are integrated into the work as a whole, and demonstrates the relevance of these topics for our own times.
Isolation and Characterization of an Alcohol Dehydrogenase Gene from the Octylphenol Polyethoxylate Degrader Pseudomonas putida S-5

Octylphenol polyethoxylate (OPEOn) biodegradation by Pseudomonas putida S-5 under aerobic conditions is initiated by the oxidation of its terminal alcohol group by alcohol dehydrogenase. A DNA fragment, containing an alcohol dehydrogenase gene (adh1), was isolated using a combination of degenerate PCR and inverse PCR. The predicted translation product of adh1 showed significant sequence similarity to bacterial alcohol dehydrogenases. Furthermore, a flavin-binding motif and signature patterns conserved in type III FAD-dependent alcohol oxidases were detected. Two open reading frames (ORFs) were found upstream of adh1, encoding a putative acyl-CoA synthetase and a putative esterase. Downstream of adh1 and located on the opposite strand was an ORF encoding a putative aldehyde dehydrogenase. Transcription analysis using RT-PCR showed that adh1 is cotranscribed with the putative acyl-CoA synthetase and esterase genes during growth on OPEOn. ADH1 overproduced in Escherichia coli exhibited activity not only toward various alcohols, including OPEOns, but also toward primary aliphatic and aromatic aldehydes.
Plasma-Derived Polyreactive Secretory-Like IgA and IgM Opsonizing Salmonella enterica Typhimurium Reduces Invasion and Gut Tissue Inflammation through Agglutination

Due to the increasing emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains of enteropathogenic bacteria, development of alternative treatments to fight against gut infections is a major health issue. While vaccination requires that a proper combination of antigen, adjuvant, and delivery route is defined to elicit protective immunity at mucosae, oral delivery of directly active antibody preparations, referred to as passive immunization, sounds like a valuable alternative. Along the gut, the strategy suffers, however, from the difficulty to obtain sufficient amounts of antibodies with the appropriate specificity and molecular structure for mucosal delivery. Physiologically, at the antibody level, the protection of gastrointestinal mucosal surfaces against enteropathogens is principally mediated by secretory IgA and secretory IgM. We previously demonstrated that purified human plasma-derived IgA and IgM can be associated with secretory component to generate biologically active secretory-like IgA and IgM (SCIgA/M) that can protect epithelial cells from infection by Shigella flexneri in vitro. In this study, we aimed at evaluating the protective potential of these antibody preparations in vivo. We now establish that such polyreactive preparations bind efficiently to Salmonella enterica Typhimurium and trigger bacterial agglutination, as observed by laser scanning confocal microscopy. Upon delivery into a mouse ligated intestinal loop, SCIgA/M-mediated aggregates persist in the intestinal environment and limit the entry of bacteria into intestinal Peyer’s patches via immune exclusion. Moreover, oral administration to mice of immune complexes composed of S. Typhimurium and SCIgA/M reduces mucosal infection, systemic dissemination, and local inflammation. Altogether, our data provide valuable clues for the future appraisal of passive oral administration of polyreactive plasma-derived SCIgA/M to combat infection by a variety of enteropathogens.