Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Comparative Voter Turnout in the Canadian Provinces since 1965: The Importance of Context

The relationship between voter turnout and individual-level determinants are well known. So is the ongoing decline in turnout over time. Yet political participation is also shaped by local factors and election contexts. This is certainly true across the Canadian provinces, where there has been a broad spectrum of turnout levels ranging from Prince Edward Island at the top to Alberta at the bottom. Using data on all 134 provincial elections from 1965 to 2014, we find three additional core determinants of voter turnout across the provinces: the competitiveness and multipartism of their elections, the embeddedness (local identification) of their populations, and the progressiveness of their electorates.
Increased levels of cerebrospinal fluid JNK3 associated with amyloid pathology: links to cognitive decline.

BACKGROUND Alzheimer disease is characterized by cognitive decline, senile plaques of β-amyloid (Aβ) peptides, neurofibrillary tangles composed of hyperphosphorylated τ proteins and neuronal loss. Aβ and τ are useful markers in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). C-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNKs) are serine-threonine protein kinases activated by phosphorylation and involved in neuronal death. METHODS In this study, Western blots, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and histological approaches were used to assess the concentrations of Aβ, τ and JNK isoforms in postmortem brain tissue samples (10 Alzheimer disease and 10 control) and in CSF samples from 30 living patients with Alzheimer disease and 27 controls with neurologic disease excluding Alzheimer disease. Patients with Alzheimer disease were followed for 1-3 years and assessed using Mini-Mental State Examination scores. RESULTS The biochemical and morphological results showed a significant increase of JNK3 and phosphorylated JNK levels in patients with Alzheimer disease, and JNK3 levels correlated with Aβ42 levels. Confocal microscopy revealed that JNK3 was associated with Aβ in senile plaques. The JNK3 levels in the CSF were significantly elevated in patients with Alzheimer disease and correlated statistically with the rate of cognitive decline in a mixed linear model. LIMITATIONS The study involved different samples grouped into 3 small cohorts. Evaluation of JNK3 in CSF was possible only with immunoblot analysis. CONCLUSION We found that JNK3 levels are increased in brain tissue and CSF from patients with Alzheimer disease. The finding that increased JNK3 levels in CSF could reflect the rate of cognitive decline is new and merits further investigation.
Coding Manual for Barriers and Solutions to Employment for Homeless Young People

This technical report presents a coding manual for analyzing a body of material related to the barriers and solutions to employment for homeless young people. The coding manual, which shows good inter-rater reliability, consists of two major codes, namely " Barrier, " and " Solution, " along with 28 sub-codes. Sub-codes within " Barrier " include " Lacks related to the individual, " " Employer-related, " " Societal-related, " and " Technology-related. " Under " Lacks related to the individual " are 12 sub-codes including lack of " Non-stigmatizing address, " lack of " Government-issued ID, " and lack of " Encouraging Experiences. " Within " Solution " there are 12 sub-codes including " Resources, " " Networking, " and " Youth-based priority. " In addition to the coding manual, the technical report also includes a summary of its development and measures of its reliability.
Integrating intensity and texture differences for robust change detection

We propose a novel technique for robust change detection based upon the integration of intensity and texture differences between two frames. A new accurate texture difference measure based on the relations between gradient vectors is proposed. The mathematical analysis shows that the measure is robust with respect to noise and illumination changes. Two ways to integrate the intensity and texture differences have been developed. The first combines the two measures adaptively according to the weightage of texture evidence, while the second does it optimally with additional constraint of smoothness. The parameters of the algorithm are selected automatically based on a statistic analysis. An algorithm is developed for fast implementation. The computational complexity analysis indicates that the proposed technique can run in real-time. The experiment results are evaluated both visually and quantitatively. They show that by exploiting both intensity and texture differences for change detection, one can obtain much better segmentation results than using the intensity or structure difference alone.
Widespread Expression of Netrin-1 by Neurons and Oligodendrocytes in the Adult Mammalian Spinal Cord

Netrins are a family of secreted proteins that function as chemotropic axon guidance cues during neural development. Here we demonstrate that netrin-1 continues to be expressed in the adult rat spinal cord at a level similar to that in the embryonic CNS. In contrast, netrin-3, which is also expressed in the embryonic spinal cord, was not detected in the adult. In situhybridization analysis demonstrated that cells in the white matter and the gray matter of the adult spinal cord express netrin-1. Colocalization studies using the neuronal marker NeuN revealed that netrin-1 is expressed by multiple classes of spinal interneurons and motoneurons. Markers identifying glial cell types indicated that netrin-1 is expressed by most, if not all, oligodendrocytes but not by astrocytes. During neural development, netrin-1 has been proposed to function as a diffusible long-range cue for growing axons. We show that in the adult spinal cord the majority of netrin-1 protein is not freely soluble but is associated with membranes or the extracellular matrix. Fractionation of adult spinal cord white matter demonstrated that netrin-1 was absent from fractions enriched for compact myelin but was enriched in fractions containing periaxonal myelin and axolemma, indicating that netrin-1 protein may be localized to the periaxonal space. These findings suggest that in addition to its role as a long-range guidance cue for developing axons, netrin may have a short-range function associated with the cell surface that contributes to the maintenance of appropriate neuronal and axon–oligodendroglial interactions in the mature nervous system.
Modeling analysis of steady-state visual evoked potential based on hand movement working mechanism

The EEG (electronencephalogram) conduction process is studied in this paper, which is based on steady-state visual evoked and hand movement working mechanism. The mathematical model is built for the generation of SSVEP (steady-state visual evoked potential). The model of the advanced central nervous system is built by using Jansen method. Finally, the results of numerical simulation showed that VEP (visual evoked potential)-likes waveforms can be produced by our model, which can be used in hand-movement brain controlling as a feature vector.
Paraphrase generation and information retrieval from stored text

First the notion "paraphrase" is defined, and then several different types of paraphrase are analyzed: transformational, attenuated, lexical, derivational, and real-world. Next, several different methods of retrieving information are discussed utilizing the notions of paraphrase defined previously. It is concluded that a combination keyword-keyphrase method would constitute the optimum procedure.
Schema Conversion Methods between XML and Relational Models

In this chapter, three semantics-based schema conversion methods are presented: 1) CPI converts an XML schema to a relational schema while preserving semantic constraints of the original XML schema, 2) NeT derives a nested structured XML schema from a flat relational schema by repeatedly applying the nest operator so that the resulting XML schema becomes hierarchical, and 3) CoT takes a relational schema as input, where multiple tables are interconnected through inclusion dependencies and generates an equivalent XML schema as output.
Sparse Bayesian learning for ranking

In this paper, we propose a sparse Bayesian kernel approach to learn ranking function. In sparse Bayesian framework, a relevance determination prior over weights is used to automatic relevance determination. The inference techniques based on Laplace approximation is derived for model selection. By this approach accurate prediction models can be derived, which typically utilize dramatically fewer basis functions than the comparable SVM-based approaches while offering a number of additional advantages. This algorithm is implemented and analysis on synthesis data. The compared with two state-of-the-art algorithms is done on document retrieval data. Experimental results show that the right ranking function can be learned and the generalization performance of this approach competitive with SVM-based method and Gaussian process based method.
Measured performance of a wireless LAN

The performance of a high-speed commercial spread-spectrum wireless LAN that uses the CSMA/CA multiple-access strategy was studied. Using synthetic workloads, packet capture success rather than signal propagation characteristics was measured. Specifically throughput, packet loss rates, range, and patterns of errors within packets were measured. It is concluded that CSMA/CA is quite successful in allocating bandwidth under stress, but that packet capture rate degrades very quickly once the LAN's effective range is exceeded. Hence, network maintainers should plan the layout of wireless networks at least as carefully as they plan wired networks. <<ETX>>
Elucidation of the disulfide‐folding pathway of hirudin by a topology‐based approach

A theoretical model for the folding of proteins containing disulfide bonds is introduced. The model exploits the knowledge of the native state to favor the progressive establishment of native interactions. At variance with traditional approaches based on native topology, not all native bonds are treated in the same way; in particular, a suitable energy term is introduced to account for the special strength of disulfide bonds, as well as their ability to undergo intramolecular reshuffling. The model thus possesses the minimal ingredients necessary to investigate the much debated issue of whether the refolding process occurs through partially structured intermediates with native or non‐native disulfide bonds. This strategy is applied to a context of particular interest, the refolding process of hirudin, a thrombin‐specific protease inhibitor, for which conflicting folding pathways have been proposed. We show that the only two parameters in the model (temperature and disulfide strength) can be tuned to reproduce well a set of experimental transitions between species with different number of formed disulfides. This model is then used to provide a characterization of the folding process and a detailed description of the species involved in the rate‐limiting step of hirudin refolding. Proteins 2003;53:000–000. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cooperative Diversity over Fading Channels with Impulsive Noise

Although there already exists a rich literature on cooperative diversity, current results are mainly restricted to the conventional assumption of additive white Gaussian noise (AWGN). AWGN model realistically represents the thermal noise at the receiver, but ignores the impulsive nature of atmospheric noise, electromagnetic interference, or man-made noise which might be dominant in many practical applications. In this paper, we investigate the performance of cooperative communication over Rayleigh fading channels in the presence of impulsive noise modeled by Middleton Class A noise. Specifically, we consider a multi-relay network with amplify-and-forward relaying. Through the derivations of the pairwise error probability, we quantify the diversity advantages. Based on the minimization of a union bound on the error rate performance, we formulate optimal power allocation schemes and demonstrate significant performance gains over their counterparts with equal power allocation. An extensive Monte Carlo simulation is also presented to illustrate the performance of cooperative schemes in various impulsive environments.
SystemC-A Modelling of Mixed-Technology Systems with Distributed Behaviour

This paper presents an approach to modelling distributed systems described by Partial Differential Equations(PDEs) in SystemC-A. Such modeling approach is quite important because of the modeling difficulties for the mixed-physical domain systems where complex digital and analogue electronics interfaces with vital distributed physical effects. As current SystemC-A does not support PDEs modeling, the proposed approach is based on discretization of PDEs to a set of Ordinary Differential and Algebraic Equations(ODAEs) which can be solved. Future work will extend the SystemC-A syntax to provide full PDE support. Distributed lossy microstrip and cantilever beam are used to validate the method and are described in the case studies.
Dividend Tax Capitalization: Further Thoughts, Comments, and Response to Michelle Hanlon, James Myers, and Terry Shevlin

Recent studies by Hanlon, Myers, and Shevlin (2001) and Dhaliwal et al. (2001) have stirred considerable interest in the topic of dividend tax capitalization. In these papers HMS and DEMB take a critical look at the theory and findings in Harris and Kemsley (1999). In a prior paper I provide preliminary thoughts and responses to the concerns they raise. Since that time I have received many follow-up queries, especially in regard to issues raised by Hanlon, Myers, and Shevlin (2001). In this paper I provide answers to the recent queries. I also express my latest thoughts and comments regarding the tax capitalization debate, and I argue the evidence in all eight HMS tables is consistent with predictions from the model in Harris and Kemsley (1999).
Ado-Trastuzumab Emtansine Targets Hepatocytes Via Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 to Induce Hepatotoxicity

Ado-trastuzumab emtansine (T-DM1) is an antibody–drug conjugate (ADC) approved for the treatment of HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer. It consists of trastuzumab, a humanized mAb directed against HER2, and a microtubule inhibitor, DM1, conjugated to trastuzumab via a thioether linker. Hepatotoxicity is one of the serious adverse events associated with T-DM1 therapy. Mechanisms underlying T-DM1–induced hepatotoxicity remain elusive. Here, we use hepatocytes and mouse models to investigate the mechanisms of T-DM1–induced hepatotoxicity. We show that T-DM1 is internalized upon binding to cell surface HER2 and is colocalized with LAMP1, resulting in DM1-associated cytotoxicity, including disorganized microtubules, nuclear fragmentation/multiple nuclei, and cell growth inhibition. We further demonstrate that T-DM1 treatment significantly increases the serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and lactate dehydrogenase in mice and induces inflammation and necrosis in liver tissues, and that T-DM1–induced hepatotoxicity is dose dependent. Moreover, the gene expression of TNFα in liver tissues is significantly increased in mice treated with T-DM1 as compared with those treated with trastuzumab or vehicle. We propose that T-DM1–induced upregulation of TNFα enhances the liver injury that may be initially caused by DM1-mediated intracellular damage. Our proposal is underscored by the fact that T-DM1 induces the outer mitochondrial membrane rupture, a typical morphologic change in the mitochondrial-dependent apoptosis, and mitochondrial membrane potential dysfunction. Our work provides mechanistic insights into T-DM1–induced hepatotoxicity, which may yield novel strategies to manage liver injury induced by T-DM1 or other ADCs. Mol Cancer Ther; 15(3); 480–90. ©2015 AACR.
MIMO antenna with Wi-Fi and Blue-Tooth for smart watch applications

This paper presents an Inverted-F Antennas (IFAs) type MIMO antenna with Wi-Fi and Blue-Tooth band for smart watch application. The overall dimensions of 40×40×5.4 mm3 of the proposed design consisting of an antenna portion of 40×5×0.1 mm3 and system ground portion of 40×40×0.4 mm3. The antenna geometry is composed of two identical IFA antennas extended from the two side of the ground, which designed on the FR4 substrate. The distance between both antennas is 40 mm. The measured results show that S11 is lower than -10 dB and the isolation S12 is better than -15 dB across the bands of Wi-Fi and Blue-Tooth. As these antennas are dedicated to be placed in watch, the influence of ABS and screen on the smart watch for the antenna performances is also investigated. The proposed antenna design also has good performance and small size.
Liquidity and Firms’ Response to Fiscal Stimulus

A stimulus programme allowed . rms in Italy to receive a tax credit for R&D expenditure in 2009. We show large heterogeneity in the . rm response. Among . rms that usually smooth R&D through time, the tax credit did not have any effect. Among traditional . rms, the response was mainly dependent on the amount of internal liquidity. Firms with relative large cash holdings raised R&D with respect to 2008 while . rms with low levels of cash did not. The latter mainly used the tax credit to mitigate the negative impact of the credit crunch.
The Impact of a Break-Through Rule on European Firms

We analyze the impact of a 75 pct. Break-Through rule on 1,035 European firms with dual class shares. In 3–5 pct. of the firms the controlling owners incur a direct loss of control, while in another 11–17 pct. of the firms, the controlling owners are likely to incur a loss of control. Firms in Germany, Italy and the Scandinavian countries are more likely to incur a loss of control. The restrictions that the Break-Through rule put on the ability of these firms to issue new shares to outsiders without changing the control structure are also estimated. We conclude that a significant number of firms with dual class shares in the European Union will be affected by a 75 pct. Break-Through rule.
PROJET — Spatial audio separation using projections

We propose a projection-based method for the unmixing of multichannel audio signals into their different constituent spatial objects. Here, spatial objects are modelled using a unified framework which handles both point sources and diffuse sources. We then propose a novel methodology to estimate and take advantage of the spatial dependencies of an object. Where previous research has processed the original multichannel mixtures directly and has been principally focused on the use of inter-channel covariance structures, here we instead process projections of the multichannel signal on many different spatial directions. These linear combinations consist of observations where some spatial objects are cancelled or enhanced. We then propose an algorithm which takes these projections as the observations, discarding dependencies between them. Since each one contains global information regarding all channels of the original multichannel mixture, this provides an effective means of learning the parameters of the original audio, while avoiding the need for joint-processing of all the channels. We further show how to recover the separated spatial objects and demonstrate the use of the technique on stereophonic music signals.
Evaluation of Automated Securing Web Applications : A Survey

With enormous increasing of e-business another thing is dramatically increasing, that is web application scamming. Therefore, it became a significant challenge for web application developer maintaining the confidentiality and integrity of the data they manipulate. Several research groups are working to secure web application end-to-end through partitioning application code (Swift, Links, Hop, UML-based Hilda), taking template-based approach (FlyingTemplate), abstracting securitycritical code, building automated object oriented programing language (BAL) or specifying application-level data flow assertions (RESIN). This paper discusses construction, achievements, performance, limitations of these diverse procedures as well as different types of common web application-level attacks and vulnerabilities.
Random Boolean Networks and Evolutionary Game Theory

Recent years have seen increased interest in the question of whether it is possible to provide an evolutionary game‐theoretic explanation for certain kinds of social norms. I sketch a proof of a general representation theorem for a large class of evolutionary game‐theoretic models played on a social network, in hope that this will contribute to a greater understanding of the long‐term evolutionary dynamics of such models, and hence the evolution of social norms.
Direct Resource Hijacking in Android

Android provides flexible inter-application communication by exporting the components of one app to others. Each app can define customized permissions to control access from other apps to its exposed components. However, an attacker can easily access the exported components and private app information by evading permission checks in Android. In this article, the authors discuss a new attack called a direct resource hijacking attack (or resource hijacking attack), which directly hijacks exported components or permissions on components owned by a benign app. They find that among the top 230 popular apps, 53 are vulnerable to this attack. To tackle this vulnerability, they propose a fine-grained resource access control framework in Android and introduce a certificate-augmented resource naming mechanism. With this method, malicious apps cant hijack a victim apps permissions to steal its private data in the victim app, or hijack a victim apps components to retrieve data thats delivered to the victim app. The proposal sheds light on a new design of resource protection in Android.
An interleaved ZVS forward converter with series input parallel output structure

An interleaved zero-voltage-switching (ZVS) forward converter for high input voltage and high output current applications is proposed in this paper. The converter consists of two active-clamp forward converter cells in series input and parallel output connection to share the input voltage and output current. The interleaved operation is employed to diminish the current ripple on the output capacitor. The resonant inductance and the output capacitances of switches are utilized to realize the resonance at the transition interval of switches such that the ZVS turn-on operation for all switches can be achieved. All these features make the proposed converter suitable for high input voltage, high output current and high efficiency applications. The operating principle, characteristics and design considerations of the proposed converter are presented. Finally, the experimental results of a prototype converter with an input of 400 V and an output of 24V/20A are provided to verify the validity of the proposed converter.
A Machine Learning Approach to Building Domain-Speci c Search Engines

Domain-speci c search engines are becoming increasingly popular because they o er increased accuracy and extra features not possible with general, Web-wide search engines. Unfortunately, they are also di cult and timeconsuming to maintain. This paper proposes the use of machine learning techniques to greatly automate the creation and maintenance of domain-speci c search engines. We describe new research in reinforcement learning, text classi cation and information extraction that enables e cient spidering, populates topic hierarchies, and identi es informative text segments. Using these techniques, we have built a demonstration system: a search engine for computer science research papers available at www.cora. justresearch.com.