Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The Lovász Hinge: A Novel Convex Surrogate for Submodular Losses

Learning with non-modular losses is an important problem when sets of predictions are made simultaneously. The main tools for constructing convex surrogate loss functions for set prediction are margin rescaling and slack rescaling. In this work, we show that these strategies lead to tight convex surrogates iff the underlying loss function is increasing in the number of incorrect predictions. However, gradient or cutting-plane computation for these functions is NP-hard for non-supermodular loss functions. We propose instead a novel surrogate loss function for submodular losses, the Lovász hinge, which leads to <inline-formula><tex-math notation="LaTeX">$\mathcal {O}(p\; \log p)$</tex-math><alternatives><mml:math><mml:mrow><mml:mi mathvariant="script">O</mml:mi><mml:mo>(</mml:mo><mml:mi>p</mml:mi><mml:mspace width="0.277778em"/><mml:mo form="prefix">log</mml:mo><mml:mi>p</mml:mi><mml:mo>)</mml:mo></mml:mrow></mml:math><inline-graphic xlink:href="yu-ieq1-2883039.gif"/></alternatives></inline-formula> complexity with <inline-formula><tex-math notation="LaTeX">$\mathcal {O}(p)$</tex-math><alternatives><mml:math><mml:mrow><mml:mi mathvariant="script">O</mml:mi><mml:mo>(</mml:mo><mml:mi>p</mml:mi><mml:mo>)</mml:mo></mml:mrow></mml:math><inline-graphic xlink:href="yu-ieq2-2883039.gif"/></alternatives></inline-formula> oracle accesses to the loss function to compute a gradient or cutting-plane. We prove that the Lovász hinge is convex and yields an extension. As a result, we have developed the first tractable convex surrogates in the literature for submodular losses. We demonstrate the utility of this novel convex surrogate through several set prediction tasks, including on the PASCAL VOC and Microsoft COCO datasets.
Volterra series approach to behavioral modeling: Application to an FET amplifier

In this paper nonlinearities due to FET amplifiers are described by using a novel behavioral modeling approach. While our proposed method requires the identification of delays and coefficients like in a standard diagonal memory polinomial model, the importance of out-of-diagonal terms is emphasized if the amplifier exhibits memory effects. Furthermore, the different terms, delays and coefficients are shown to be related to Volterra kernels. In order to validate this approach a HEMT amplifier has been constructed and characterized with W-CDMA signals at diverse symbol rates and input levels. The predictions obtained with the proposed model demonstrate a very good agreement with experimental results and have been compared with a diagonal memory polynomial model.
Reconciliation of Purchases and Sales Estimates in an Input-Output Table

The increasing use of input-output analysis at the subnational level has been a feature of empirical economics in recent years. The `remarkable degree of persistence' shown by this `well-established, almost . old fashioned, branch of economics' (Richardson, 1972) is adequate testimony of the value of the technique to the economics profession . This persistence must be attributed to a large extent to the analytical versatility of input-output, and to the increasing number of situations to which input-output has been applied . In its simplest form the input-output table is a descriptive device, providing a static picture of the size and structure of an economy, and of the relationships among the producing sectors of the economy, and between producing sectors and the sources of value added and final demand . As such it provides a useful basis for descriptive economics, but also provides a starting point for rigorous analytical studies of an economy . As far as the latter is concerned we can distinguish some developed and developing areas of interest and potential, namely
Earnings Management Prior to Stock Option Grants

This paper examines earnings management prior to stock option grants. Because the gain realized from a stock option is dependent on the difference between the exercise price determined on the stock option grant date and market price on the exercise date, management has the incentive to temporarily depress its share price immediately prior to the grant date (Yermack, 1997; Chauvin and Shenoy, 2001). This paper focuses on earnings management to decrease the exercise price prior to the stock option grants. Our results support this hypothesis, as we find a negative relation between discretionary accruals and subsequent stock option grants.
Detection of PCR inhibitors in cervical specimens by using the AMPLICOR Chlamydia trachomatis assay

To determine that susceptibility of AMPLICOR Chlamydia trachomatis PCR to inhibitory factors possibly present in cervical specimens, we obtained cervical specimens from 200 gynecology patients attending our outpatient clinic. The prevalence of C. trachomatis infection was 4.1%, as determined by cell culture. All AMPLICOR specimens were tested in one procedure as described by the manufacturer, and after the specimen was spiked with C. trachomatis, several other pretreatment protocols were used. Complete inhibition of the PCR was observed in 38 (19%) cervical specimens. Heat treatment at 95 degrees C, freeze-thawing, or 10-fold dilution of the samples reduced the initial inhibition to 9, 16, or 9%, respectively. A combination of heat treatment and 10-fold dilution reduced the inhibition to 4% of the samples. A second specimen type (swabs inoculated in 0.2 M sucrose phosphate buffer [2SP]) was also evaluated. A 10-fold dilution of the spiked 2SP specimen resulted in an inhibition rate of 6%, which was comparable to that obtained by centrifugation of the 2SP specimen prior to processing. Furthermore, it was shown that the inhibition was not correlated with blood contamination. Processing the specimens on the day of collection or the day after resulted in a higher inhibition rate than did delayed processing (27.6 versus 15.5%, respectively). An inverse correlation was found between the concentration of C. trachomatis added to the sample and the rate of inhibition observed. The inhibition was partly correlated with the pH of the cervical mucosa. Decreased inhibition was found at pH values of > or = 7.5. The effects of blood, pH, and delay in processing were all evaluated by using the AMPLICOR specimen. We conclude that the susceptibility of AMPLICOR C. trachomatis PCR to inhibiting factors in cervical specimens can be significantly reduced if the pretreatment procedure includes heat treatment or the use of 2SP transport medium. Also, a 10-fold dilution of the clinical specimen followed by heat treatment will largely prevent the inhibition of this PCR.
Widening involvement in creative group processes

Creative group meetings are most often considered as events that are limited in time, spanning only the duration while the participants are together in a session. There is little attention for the time before (mostly preparation by facilitator and invitation of participants) and after the session (maturization of the findings). Yet, through earlier research (e.g. Van der Lugt, 2002) and through our experiences with facilitating creative processes for companies, we came to realize that a participants’ creative process starts well before the beginning of a workshop, and extends well beyond. In the past years, we have explored various ways of widening involvement in creative processes, such as creative problem solving meetings and scenario meetings. In our working definition, a creative group meeting is a group meeting where the group members together generate new knowledge, be it ideas, visions of the future or thoughts and dreams about the use of future products. The main objective is to ‘catch’ the participants’ involvement well before the workshop, and to stretch their involvement in the creative process to well after that the doors of the workshop space have been closed (see figure 1).
Financial Derivatives in Corporate Tax Avoidance: A Conceptual Perspective

ABSTRACT: Financial derivatives play an increasingly common role in corporate tax avoidance. This paper takes a descriptive approach to answer the fundamental, yet underexplored, questions of why derivatives are useful for corporate tax avoidance and how they fulfill this objective. To evaluate why, I develop and discuss a simple framework of research, practical issues, and anecdotes about derivatives-based tax avoidance. I then provide unique insight into how derivatives reduce taxes by discussing the complex transaction-level detail of two derivatives-based tax-planning strategies. Finally, I identify potential issues that might be addressed in future research. Overall, by discussing the concepts and mechanics of derivatives-based tax avoidance, this study serves as a prologue to extant and future research on the topic. JEL Classifications: G32, H25, M40
Metal Resistance and Lithoautotrophy in the Extreme Thermoacidophile Metallosphaera sedula

ABSTRACT Archaea such as Metallosphaera sedula are thermophilic lithoautotrophs that occupy unusually acidic and metal-rich environments. These traits are thought to underlie their industrial importance for bioleaching of base and precious metals. In this study, a genetic approach was taken to investigate the specific relationship between metal resistance and lithoautotrophy during biotransformation of the primary copper ore, chalcopyrite (CuFeS2). In this study, a genetic system was developed for M. sedula to investigate parameters that limit bioleaching of chalcopyrite. The functional role of the M. sedula copRTA operon was demonstrated by cross-species complementation of a copper-sensitive Sulfolobus solfataricus copR mutant. Inactivation of the gene encoding the M. sedula copper efflux protein, copA, using targeted recombination compromised metal resistance and eliminated chalcopyrite bioleaching. In contrast, a spontaneous M. sedula mutant (CuR1) with elevated metal resistance transformed chalcopyrite at an accelerated rate without affecting chemoheterotrophic growth. Proteomic analysis of CuR1 identified pleiotropic changes, including altered abundance of transport proteins having AAA-ATPase motifs. Addition of the insoluble carbonate mineral witherite (BaCO3) further stimulated chalcopyrite lithotrophy, indicating that carbon was a limiting factor. Since both mineral types were actively colonized, enhanced metal leaching may arise from the cooperative exchange of energy and carbon between surface-adhered populations. Genetic approaches provide a new means of improving the efficiency of metal bioleaching by enhancing the mechanistic understanding of thermophilic lithoautotrophy.
Communication about Environmental Information: What Drives the Effect on Income Smoothing as Proxy of Earnings Quality?

The purpose of this paper is to examine the association between corporate environmental reporting and income smoothing made by companies listed in Paris Stock Exchange. We use earnings smoothness as proxy of earnings quality desirable by investors and we measure environmental reporting by index score using content analysis method, the index was composed by items from French law of New Economic Regulation, the global compact, Global Reporting Initiative and new Acts on environmental protection. Our results show a positive relationship between the two variables; firms with high level of environmental reporting are less incited to smooth earnings.
Real Price and the Consumption of Mineral Energy in the United States, 1901-1968

Growth in demand for energy is affected by changes in real price, and changes in the real price of energy have affected growth in total energy supplies. Technological improvements and discovery of new supplies are not having as great an effect now on the expansion of supplies. Effects of the oil cartel on price and supply will probably lower energy consumption and over-prediction of energy needs will result. (29 references) (DCK)
Three-Level Cell Topology for a Multilevel Power Supply to Achieve High Efficiency Envelope Amplifier

This paper presents an envelope amplifier solution for envelope elimination and restoration (EER), that consists of a series combination of a switch-mode power supply (SMPS), based on three-level voltage cells and a linear regulator. This cell topology offers several advantages over a previously presented envelope amplifier based on a different multilevel topology (two-level voltage cells). The topology of the multilevel converter affects to the whole design of the envelope amplifier and a comparison between both design alternatives regarding the size, complexity and the efficiency of the solution is done. Both envelope amplifier solutions have a bandwidth of 2 MHz with an instantaneous maximum power of 50 W. It is also analyzed the linearity of the three-level cell solution, with critical importance in the EER technique implementation. Additionally, considerations to optimize the design of the envelope amplifier and experimental comparison between both cell topologies are included.
Adaptive Backstepping Neural Network approach to ship course control

This paper describes an Adaptive Backstepping Neural Network (ABNN) method used for a ship course tracking control. The ship model is described by a third order nonlinear model whose parameters are unknown. The control design uses estimate values of unknown parameters of the system. Then, adaptive laws of the estimation of these values have been proposed. The stability of the controlled system has been ensured by the use of a Lyapunov function. Simulation results show the effectiveness of the proposed approach and the designed controller can be applied to the ship course tracking with good performances.
Absolute beta convergence in liberated communist countries of Europe

It was not possible to test the neoclassical convergence theory on communist countries until the collapse of communism. The method of beta convergence indicates divergence among the liberated countries of Southeast Europe from 1980-2006. A more advanced quantile regression also indicates divergence of growth rates among these countries. However, when the study period is divided into communist period, transition period, and democracy era some evidence of convergence during democratic period becomes evident. This supports the neoclassical growth theory, which indicates poorer countries grow much faster than richer nations resulting in smaller gap among them.
Do Sunk Costs Matter?

"That sunk costs are not relevant to rational decision making is often presented as one of the basic principles of economics. When people are influenced by sunk costs in their decision making, they are said to be committing the "sunk cost fallacy. " Contrary to conventional wisdom, we argue that in a broad range of situations, it is rational for people to condition behavior on sunk costs because of informational content, reputational concerns, or financial and time constraints. Once all the elements of the decision-making environment are taken into account, reacting to sunk costs can often be understood as rational behavior". ("JEL" D0, D01, D8, D81, D83, D9, D90) Copyright (c) 2009 Western Economic Association International.
Talent management in professional services firms: a HR issue?

Purpose – An increasing number of organizations are concerned with the internal management of talent. Over recent years there has been a proliferation of studies which attempt to quantify the value of the intangible assets held at a company, while human resource practices have taken on strategic significance for organizations, leading to a direct connection between the management of professionals and the achievement of the company's goals. The paper aims to address these issues.Design/methodology/approach – In response to the strategic need to maintain a distinctive offering of talent within the marketplace of professional services companies, a dynamic simulation tool has been devised and used to analyze those policies which allow the flow of professionals to be adjusted in order for a company to fulfill market expectations in the event of different demand scenarios.Findings – As a result of the analysis performed, the paper observed that a lack of flexibility within the organization tended to lead to a r.
A Case Study into Planning and Change Management within the UK National Health Service

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present an empirical case study which was undertaken to examine planning and change management within a UK National Health Service (NHS) multi‐site hospital.Design/methodology/approach – A case study was undertaken within a UK‐based NHS hospital trust. Having reviewed the available literature, the research collated and analysed existing planning and change implementation within the hospital using multiple collection methods. This culminated in specific recommendations.Findings – It was established that the following were all factors of influence: articulating change in the NHS; preparing for the 18‐week patient pathway; choose and book: managing patient demand; and payment by results: financial accountability at all levels. These were all high profile issues requiring specific and immediate attention, if the proposed plans and changes were to be implemented according to the objectives set.Research limitations/implications – The case study methodology applied was a.
A phase-shift three-phase bidirectional series resonant DC/DC converter

The demand for bidirectional DC/DC converters is increasing because of their potential capability for sustainable energy conversion systems where the power is to be captured from or stored in energy storage elements. This paper presents a three-phase series resonant bidirectional converter which is suitable for high power applications. The converter consists of two three-phase full bridge networks, the resonant tanks and a high frequency three-phase transformer. All switches can work either in ZVS or ZCS mode. The voltage drop on leakage inductances is minimized by choosing the switching frequency close to the resonant frequency, allowing high efficient power conversion. The phasor analysis is applied to the circuit to develop a dynamic model for designing the control system. Simulation and experimental results are used to verify proper operation of the proposed converter and the obtained dynamic model.
Impacts of unreliable communication and regret matching based anti-jamming approach in smart grid

Demand response management (DRM) is one of the main features in smart grid, which is realized via communications between power providers and consumers. Due to the vulnerabilities of communication channels, communication is not perfect in practice and will be threatened by jamming attack. In this paper, we consider jamming attack in the wireless communication for smart grid. Firstly, the DRM performance degradation introduced by unreliable communication is fully studied. Secondly, a regret matching based anti-jamming algorithm is proposed to enhance the performance of communication and DRM. Finally, numerical results are presented to illustrate the impacts of unreliable communication on DRM and the performance of the proposed anti-jamming algorithm.
The Effects of Consumer Ethnocentrism and Country of Origin on Polish Consumers' Evaluation of Foreign Manufactured Products

The admission of Poland to the European Union may be perceived as the symbolic crowning of a long period of economic transformation. Poland today is not only an emerging market but an emerging culture experiencing a strong economic development wherein old ideals are confronted with new Western values. On this background, the objective of this research is to assess the level and impact of consumer ethnocentrism and the effect of country of origin on consumers’ evaluation of and buying intentions toward foreign manufactured products. Medium-expensive consumer durables—design furniture and fashion clothes—imported from Denmark are examined. Findings show consumer ethnocentrism is present and that more than one-fifth of consumers are highly ethnocentric but also that ethnocentrism has no direct effect on the evaluation of product quality or on buying intention for either of the products from Denmark.
Computing saddle-node and limit-induced bifurcation manifolds for subtransmission and transmission wind generation

This paper introduces an exact and efficient method for computing and visualizing the power flow feasibility boundary of large networks composed of (1) saddle-node bifurcation manifolds where the Jacobian is singular and (2) limit-induced bifurcation manifolds where the network loses structural stability as the limit is encountered. This method is applied to the DTE/ITC system in Eastern Michigan where significant wind development has taken place at both transmission (120-345kV) and subtransmission (42kV) levels. It is shown that reactive compensation capability of subtransmission wind farms, in voltage control mode, can shrink the feasibility boundary and hence negatively impact the voltage stability margin of the system.
Diversifying revenue sources in Canada: Are women's voluntary organizations different?

Government policies in Canada have taken a hard right turn, and tax cuts now have priority over investing in social programming. Both federal and provincial governments have been withdrawing from direct service provision, with the expectation that the voluntary sector will fill the gap. At the same time, traditional government support for the voluntary sector has declined, which limits the ability of organizations to meet their current service demands. Using a sample of 645 organizations from across Canada, this article explores the use of revenue diversification as a response to policy changes. The findings indicate that the factors related to voluntary organizations' in Canada embracing revenue diversification to support program delivery differ for organizations run by women and nongendered organizations.
Climate Change, Security and Peace: The Role of the European Union

Climate change has been at the core of the European Union’s (EU) environmental policy since 1988 and has been integral to its pursuit of international leadership to foster multilateral climate protection. Both the EU and the international community highlighted climate change as a major security issue in 2007. This article examines the arguments that underpinned that policy turn and explores their implications for the Union and for international efforts to address the challenge of climate change. More specifically, this analysis assesses what it has meant for the EU to define climate change as a security issue. It asks whether this shift represents a deepening of the projection of the EU as civilian power and of its commitment to effective multilateralism and peace-building or a ‘securitisation’ of climate change policy and of the international leadership role sought by the EU. The article concludes by positing three alternative scenarios that suggest different ways in which the role of the EU and its linking of climate change and security may evolve in coming years.