Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A mobile EEG system with dry electrodes

A new EEG recording device demonstrating an ultra-high input impedance is presented. Dry electrodes made of conductive rubber were employed for this study with careful shielding of the electrodes and cables. The device has a small form factor, so it is wearable, and has continuous Bluetooth connectivity. Tests were performed to assess features of the proposed device and to compare it with standard clinical devices. Simultaneous EEG recordings were measured from adjacent sites on the scalp using the new EEG device with dry electrodes and a reference EEG device with standard electrodes. The gain and bandwidth settings for the two devices were set similarly. Traditional closing eyes alpha-wave replacement and mu-rhythm were compared in both the time and frequency domains. Results from eight subjects show a high correlation coefficient (0.83 on average) between recordings of contiguous dry and standard electrodes. We conclude that the performance of the new device is comparable with standard EEG recording equipment, but offers a shorter set-up time, the possibility of long-term recording, and a wireless connection - all of which are advantages valuable in the field of brain computer interfaces and neurofeedback.
Kernel selection forl semi-supervised kernel machines

Existing semi-supervised learning methods are mostly based on either the cluster assumption or the manifold assumption. In this paper, we propose an integrated regularization framework for semi-supervised kernel machines by incorporating both the cluster assumption and the manifold assumption. Moreover, it supports kernel learning in the form of kernel selection. The optimization problem involves joint optimization over all the labeled and unlabeled data points, a convex set of basic kernels, and a discrete space of unknown labels for the unlabeled data. When the manifold assumption is incorporated, graph Laplacian kernels are used as the basic kernels for learning an optimal convex combination of graph Laplacian kernels. Comparison with related methods on the USPS data set shows very promising results.
Male and Female Assumptions About Colleagues' Views of Their Competence

In an attempt to determine what working men and women believe their male and female colleagues think of them, an experiment was conducted with 100 insurance company employees. They were led to believe that their (fictional) co-workers were male or female and, after working jointly on a task, were told that their joint performance was “poor” or “superior. ” Subjects were then asked to indicate their perceptions of how their co-workers viewed them. Results indicated that, as predicted, women anticipated more negative reactions than men, both in the degree of responsibility that would be attributed to them for the pair's success or failure and in descriptions with respect to achievement-relevant attributes. This perception of negativity prevailed whatever the sex of the coworker. The results were considered in terms of the self-fulfilling cycle that such perceptions are apt to create for women in work settings.
Of boys and men: masculinity and gender in Southern African studies

Southern African historiography has become increasingly gender‐sensitive in the last decade. Primarily as a result of the impact of feminism in the world of work and in universities, research on women has burgeoned. The inclusion of women in the study of the past and the recognition of their agency has filled an important lacuna but also has made evident the corresponding gap in knowledge about men. The dominance of men in the public record has obscured the fact that little is known about masculinity. Men have generally been treated in essentialist terms. The socially constructed nature of masculinity is widely acknowledged and it is this insight that needs to be applied to a study of the region's history. This article introduces readers to the inter‐disciplinary work on masculinity, reviews how research on gender in South Africa has handled issues of men and masculinity and then suggests how insights taken from Men's Studies might help to broaden gender analysis and enrich the study of the South African .
A Parsimonious Model of Stock-Keeping Unit Choice

The authors develop a model to describe and predict consumer stock-keeping unit (SKU) choice in frequently bought product categories. The model posits that a product category consists of several salient attributes with numerous attribute levels. It represents a SKU as an attributelevel combination. The model uses 11 + 12 · (K +1) parameters to describe a K-attribute product category with 2 latent segments. This parsimony is achieved without discarding data or aggregating level of analysis beyond SKU. With the number of parameters not depending on either the number of SKUs in the category or number of levels in each salient attribute, the model is particularly useful for large product categories. The model utilizes three behavioral premises on how consumers choose products over time. First, consumers accumulate not only a product-level experience but also attribute-level experiences. Second, these experiences have both consumption and shopping components. While consumption occurs only for the chosen attribute levels and product, shopping applies to all familiar and available attribute levels and products. Third, the consumption and shopping experiences increase with attribute-level and product familiarities. The authors demonstrate the descriptive and predictive power of their model using a panellevel data set of sixteen categories involving 133,492 purchase incidences. In benchmarking against the models of Guadagni & Little (1983) and Fader & Hardie (1996) using a subset of seven small categories (with less than 200 parameters for both models), the authors show that their model fits 7% better in-sample and predicts 8% better out-of-sample in hit probability. In terms of adjusted pseudo R-square, the model is 8% and 11% higher in-sample and out-ofsample, respectively. This superior performance requires only one-half the number of parameters.
Absence of the Transcription Factor E2F1 Attenuates Brain Injury and Improves Behavior after Focal Ischemia in Mice

Because of observations that cultured neurons from mice deficient in the transcription factor E2F1 exhibit resistance after treatment with a wide variety of cell-death inducers, the authors investigated whether resistance extended to a cerebral ischemic insult. No differences in cerebral blood flow or physiologic parameters were observed in the mutant E2F1 littermates after the focal ligation. After 2 hours of left middle cerebral artery occlusion and 1 day of reperfusion, a 33% smaller infarct (P < 0.05) was observed by 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium staining in the brains of E2F1-null mice compared with their E2F1+/+ and +/− littermates. A milder ischemic insult produced by 20 minutes of middle cerebral artery occlusion and 7 days of reperfusion produced a greater difference in the E2F1-null animals with a 71% smaller infarct (P < 0.001) compared to littermate controls. A decrease in neuronal damage after mild ischemia in E2F1-null mice was observed by immunohistochemical monitoring of the loss in neuronal-specific microtubule-associated protein 2 cytoskeletal protein and the appearance of nuclear DNA fragmentation by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated 2′-deoxyuridine 5′-triphosphate-biotin nick end labeling. This decreased brain damage was evidenced by improved behavior in motor function of E2F1 −/− mice compared with their E2F1 +/+ littermates by 7 days of reperfusion. In an effort to address the underlying molecular mechanism of the resistance of E2F1-null mice, the expression of several downstream proapoptotic target genes (p73, Apaf1, Arf) of the E2F1 transcription factor was measured by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Although an attenuated increase in Hsp68 mRNA was found in E2F1 −/− mice, no changes in the proapoptotic transcripts were found after ischemia, and a mechanistic inference was not possible. The authors conclude that the transcription factor E2F1 does modulate neuronal viability in brain after cerebral ischemia and corroborates the findings with cultured neurons.
β2-Adrenergic Receptor Activates Extracellular Signal-regulated Kinases (ERKs) via the Small G Protein Rap1 and the Serine/Threonine Kinase B-Raf*

G protein-coupled receptors can induce cellular proliferation by stimulating the mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase cascade. Heterotrimeric G proteins are composed of both α and βγ subunits that can signal independently to diverse intracellular signaling pathways including those that activate MAP kinases. In this study, we examined the ability of isoproterenol, an agonist of the β2-adrenergic receptor (β2AR), to stimulate extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERKs). Using HEK293 cells, which express endogenous β2AR, we show that isoproterenol stimulates ERKs via β2AR. This action of isoproterenol requires cAMP-dependent protein kinase and is insensitive to pertussis toxin, suggesting that Gαs activation of cAMP-dependent protein kinase is required. Interestingly, β2AR activates both the small G proteins Rap1 and Ras, but only Rap1 is capable of coupling to Raf isoforms. β2AR inhibits the Ras-dependent activation of both Raf isoforms Raf-1 and B-Raf, whereas Rap1 activation by isoproterenol recruits and activates B-Raf. β2AR activation of ERKs is not blocked by expression of RasN17, an interfering mutant of Ras, but is blocked by expression of either RapN17 or Rap1GAP1, both of which interfere with Rap1 signaling. We propose that isoproterenol can activate ERKs via Rap1 and B-Raf in these cells.
Mapping Compiler to Bridge Applications and Databases Using a Relational Constraint Solver

Developing mixed object-relational (OR) mappings for object-oriented application models is a tedious, costly, intuitive, and error-prone manual process. The technical contribution of this paper is a substantially automated technique for exhaustive, formally precise synthesis of quality equivalence classes of such mappings. We employ a constraint-solving technique to generate candidate mappings, compute six metrics related to three major quality attributes for each candidate, and cluster results into quality equivalence classes. We claim that this work has the potential to significantly reduce the cost and time required to develop mixed OR mappings, to increase the quality of mappings (in conformance to formal correctness constraints), and to provide engineers with a better and quantitative basis for making tradeoffs in selecting among available mappings. To evaluate these claims, we conducted several experiments, including over an object model of a real e-commerce application. The resulting data strongly support our claims that we were able to generate hundreds of thousands of candidates, assess them, and reduce them to equivalence classes, in the order of minutes.
Communication and Cognition in Appraisal: A Tale of Two Paradigms

This research explores the basic question: Are there shared cognitive structures (scripts) underlying common organizational events'? Linguistics and social cognition were used to fashion a framework for the interpretation and analysis of videotaped appraisal interviews, which were coded via speech act analysis and then computer-mapped to create a graphic display of each appraisal interaction. Interpretive analyses of these maps revealed a common behavioural script, which implied the existence of a consensual cognitive script for enacting the appraisal interviews. Additionally, the approach and findings of this study, which is based on an 'interpretive' research paradigm, are contrasted with a companion study (Gioia and Sims 1986), which was based on a 'positivist' paradigm. The comparison of two studies investigating the same set of events from alternative paradigmatic perspectives reveals not only convergent and divergent findings, but also suggests that when one adopts different 'lenses' with which to view ostensibly the same organizational phenomena, one simply 'sees' different things.
State–Space Forecasting of Schistosoma haematobium Time-Series in Niono, Mali

Background Much of the developing world, particularly sub-Saharan Africa, exhibits high levels of morbidity and mortality associated with infectious diseases. The incidence of Schistosoma sp. —which are neglected tropical diseases exposing and infecting more than 500 and 200 million individuals in 77 countries, respectively—is rising because of 1) numerous irrigation and hydro-electric projects, 2) steady shifts from nomadic to sedentary existence, and 3) ineffective control programs. Notwithstanding the colossal scope of these parasitic infections, less than 0.5% of Schistosoma sp. investigations have attempted to predict their spatial and or temporal distributions. Undoubtedly, public health programs in developing countries could benefit from parsimonious forecasting and early warning systems to enhance management of these parasitic diseases. Methodology/Principal Findings In this longitudinal retrospective (01/1996–06/2004) investigation, the Schistosoma haematobium time-series for the district of Niono, Mali, was fitted with general-purpose exponential smoothing methods to generate contemporaneous on-line forecasts. These methods, which are encapsulated within a state–space framework, accommodate seasonal and inter-annual time-series fluctuations. Mean absolute percentage error values were circa 25% for 1- to 5-month horizon forecasts. Conclusions/Significance The exponential smoothing state–space framework employed herein produced reasonably accurate forecasts for this time-series, which reflects the incidence of S. haematobium–induced terminal hematuria. It obliquely captured prior non-linear interactions between disease dynamics and exogenous covariates (e.g., climate, irrigation, and public health interventions), thus obviating the need for more complex forecasting methods in the district of Niono, Mali. Therefore, this framework could assist with managing and assessing S. haematobium transmission and intervention impact, respectively, in this district and potentially elsewhere in the Sahel.
Researching youth political participation in Australia: arguments for an expanded focus

The distinct political lives and lifestyles of young people provide a rich arena for social research. This paper traces the origins of contemporary definitions of political participation, which are often at odds with the real experiences and aspirations of young citizens. Despite a growing body of empirical evidence in this field, researchers are still challenged to represent the unique contribution young people make to political life. This paper suggests that expanding the research focus of the study of youth political participation in Australia would offer scope for generating new knowledge and meaning.
A New Combination Approach To Secure MANETS Against Attacks

In Wireless communications the traffic across a mobile ad hoc network (MANET) can be highly vulnerable to security threats. Because of the features like unreliability of wireless links between nodes, constantly changing topology, restricted battery power, lack of centralized control and others, the mobile ad hoc networks are more prone to suffer from the malicious behaviors than the traditional wired networks. Therefore, it becomes very much necessary to pay more attention to the security issues in the mobile ad hoc networks. In this paper a new combination approach, which combines three techniques is discussed. This approach is used to identify and prevent the malicious nodes exhibiting different network layer attacks and is compared with a nearest approach through the experimental results and analysis. Performance evaluation is done based on few network parameters.
A Cross-Cultural Study of the Communication of Extra-Verbal Meaning by Gesture

Abstract English and Italian encoders were asked to communicate two-dimensional shapes to decoders of their own culture, with and without the use of hand gestures, for materials of high and low verbal codability. The decoders drew what they thought the shapes were and these were rated by English and Italian judges, for similarity to the originals. Higher accuracy scores were obtained by both the English and the Italians, when gestures were allowed, for materials of both high and low codability; but the effect of using gestures was greater for materials of low codability. Improvement in performance when gestures were allowed was greater for the Italians than for the English for both levels of codability. An analysis of the recorded verbal utterances has shown that the detriment in communication accuracy with the elimination of gestures cannot be attributed to disruption of speech performance; rather, changes in speech content occur indicating an increased reliance on verbal means of conveying spatial infor.
Using the Community Readiness Model to Examine the Built and Social Environment: A Case Study of the High Point Neighborhood, Seattle, Washington, 2000–2010

Background Residents of many cities lack affordable, quality housing. Economically disadvantaged neighborhoods often have high rates of poverty and crime, few institutions that enhance the quality of its residents’ lives, and unsafe environments for walking and other physical activity. Deteriorating housing contributes to asthma-related illness. We describe the redevelopment of High Point, a West Seattle neighborhood, to improve its built environment, increase neighborhood physical activity, and reduce indoor asthma triggers. Community Context High Point is one of Seattle’s most demographically diverse neighborhoods. Prior to redevelopment, it had a distressed infrastructure, rising crime rates, and indoor environments that increased asthma-related illness in children and adolescents. High Point residents and partners developed and implemented a comprehensive redevelopment plan to create a sustainable built environment to increase outdoor physical activity and improve indoor environments. Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of the High Point redevelopment, organized by the different stages of change in the Community Readiness Model. We also examined the multisector partnerships among government and community groups that contributed to the success of the High Point project. Outcome Overall quality of life for residents improved as a result of neighborhood redevelopment. Physical activity increased, residents reported fewer days of poor physical or mental health, and social connectedness between neighbors grew. Asthma-friendly homes significantly decreased asthma-related illness among children and adolescents. Interpretation Providing affordable, quality housing to low-income families improved individual and neighborhood quality of life. Efforts to create social change and improve the health outcomes for entire populations are more effective when multiple organizations work together to improve neighborhood health.
DTN-based data aggregation for timely information collection in disaster areas

When disasters occur, a common characteristic is the partial or complete failure of the telecommunications infrastructure so the usual means of communication are often not available. However, accurate and timely information of the disaster area is important. In this paper, a data collection method from an area of interest (AoI) within the disaster zone is proposed that uses the mobile phones of the people to serve as sensing nodes. To achieve maximum AoI coverage while minimizing delay, we propose a DTN-based data aggregation method. Mobile phone users create messages containing disaster-related information and merge them with their respective coverage areas into a new message with the merged coverage to reduce message size and to minimize the overall message collection delay. However, simply merging messages may result in duplicate counting thus, to prevent this, a Bloom filter is constructed for each aggregated message. Also, to reduce further the message delivery time, the expected time of a node to reach its destination is introduced as a routing metric. Through computer simulation with a real geographical map, we confirmed that the proposed method achieved a smaller delay in message delivery than epidemic routing.
A PSYCHOLOGICAL NEEDS ANALYSIS OF MALE AND FEMALE SEX TRAIT STEREOTYPES IN MALAYSIA

Abstract As part of a cross-cultural project, 100 Malaysian university students completed Gough and Heilbrun's (1965) Adjective Check List to assess existing stereotypes of males and females. After the construction of 100 item stereotypes for males and females the data were analyzed in terms of Murray's (1938) personality theory of psychological needs. Analysis revealed that the male “personality” reflected high needs in autonomy, aggression and exhibition, but low needs for deference and nurturance. By contrast, female needs were strong in succorance and abasement but weak in dominance. The se results were contrasted with those of 21 other countries and findings discussed in terms of Malaysia's multi-racial composition and influence of traditional customs and religious beliefs.
GENETIC CONSTRAINTS ON LIFE‐HISTORY EVOLUTION: QUANTITATIVE‐TRAIT LOCI INFLUENCING GROWTH AND FLOWERING IN ARABIDOPSIS THALIANA

We have mapped genes causing life‐history trade‐offs, and they behave as predicted by ecological theory. Energetic and quantitative‐genetic models suggest a trade‐off between age and size at first reproduction. Natural selection favored plants that flower early and attain large size at first reproduction. Response to selection was opposed by a genetic trade‐off between these two components of fitness. Two quantitative‐trait loci (QTLs) influencing flowering time were mapped in a recombinant inbred population of Arabidopsis. These QTLs also influenced size at first reproduction, but did not affect growth rate (resource acquisition). Substitutions of small chromosomal segments, which may represent allelic differences at flowering time loci, caused genetic trade‐offs between life‐history components. One QTL explained 22% of the genetic variation in flowering time. It is within a few centiMorgans (cM) of the gigantea (GI) locus, and may be allelic with GI. Sixteen percent of the genetic variation was explained by another QTL, FDR1, near 18 cM on chromosome II, which does not correspond to any previously identified flowering‐time locus. These life‐history genes regulate patterns of resource allocation and life‐history trade‐offs in this population.
Spending Time Or Investing Time? Involvement In High School Curricular and Extracurricular Activities as Strategic Action

A rational choice perspective on social behavior implies that individuals engage in purposive action with the intention of maximizing their interests in valued objectives. Although adolescents have more often been viewed as products of their environments than as rational actors, the choices they face in allocating time and effort among different activities can influence their ability to achieve important life goals. This article develops a conceptual model of involvement as investment to characterize participation in high school curricular and extracurricular activities and the returns they yield for college matriculation. Data from a national sample of students and schools and multi-level statistical methods are used to explore a set of empirical questions derived from this model. Findings demonstrate that activity involvement displays properties characteristic of social exchange and investment. Involvement in both the formal curriculum and school extracurriculars yields significant returns for college matriculation while also showing evidence of diminishing returns associated with overinvesting. Results further show that the point of diminishing returns to investment in formal curricular activities comes at higher levels of involvement for progressively more competitive outcomes and that rates of curricular returns are linked to an actor's goal specificity. Comparisons between actual and optimal patterns of investment suggest that high school students are relatively strategic in their activity involvement.