Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
LOTTERY EFFECTS ON PARI-MUTUEL TAX REVENUES

Addresses the issue of substitution among the two most prominent forms of gambling, lotteries and thoroughbred racing. Focuses on the impact of lotteries on the demand for wagering at thoroughbred racetracks because thoroughbred horseracing generates more tax revenue than other non-lottery types of gambling.
Dergisi THE NEW VALUATION PARADIGM : REAL OPTIONS

Conventional capital budgeting techniques such as the discounted cash flow analysis fail to recognize managerial flexibility that may have a huge option value. Such managerial flexibility may include abandonment option, option to defer development, option to expand, option to contract, and switching options. Though the extension of option pricing theory to valuation of other assets is not a novel concept, it has become increasingly popular with the new economy frenzy. Unable to justify the strikingly high market valuations of technology stocks with orthodox techniques, academics and market professionals have started to exploit option pricing technologies that presage relatively much higher valuations, which are indeed justifiable for highly flexible and high-growth companies. Nevertheless, these valuations are also highly sensitive to initial conditions and exact specification of parameters, which can be a viable explanation for the relatively much higher volatility of returns for Internet stocks. Regardless of the discussion whether it makes sense to use real options in order to justify high market valuations, the real option methodology is indispensable in recognizing the managerial flexibility, which may be inherently embedded in any capital budgeting project. * Istanbul Commerce University, Faculty of Commercial Science.
Absolute Range Detection System for Stair

Absolute range detection has been a long-time objective of studies focused on achieving stereo computer vision. Many researchers have attempted to emulate some part of the human stereo system, most commonly motion parallax. These attempts, however, have concluded that motion parallax is not a reliable source of input for systems attempting range measurements and, in fact, often worsens object size and range prediction [1]-[2]. A system with these qualities is needed for applications such as the Stanford AI Robot (STAIR), which must be able to maneuver through dynamic environments in order to carry out its tasks.
Climbing for preventing and treating health problems: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials

Objective: To summarize the best available evidence on effectiveness of therapeutic or sport climbing in preventing or treating health problems. Methods: We searched Medline, Embase, CENTRAL, PsycINFO, PEDro, OTseeker and SportDiscus for randomized controlled trials published up to December 26, 2010. We included all trials assessing patient-relevant outcomes. Two reviewers independently selected relevant studies, assessed their methodological quality and extracted data. Quality of evidence was rated using the GRADE system. Data were entered into RevMan 5 to calculate effect sizes and 95% confidence intervals where appropriate. Results: Eligible for inclusion were four RCTs studying the effectiveness of climbing in (a) geriatric patients, (b) adults with multiple sclerosis, (c) adults with chronic low-back pain and (d) children with disabilities and poor motor function. The sample sizes ranged between 20 and 95. All trials had major methodological limitations. We found very low quality evidence that therapeutic climbing may improve activities of daily living in geriatric patients compared to physiotherapy as measured by the Barthel index (difference in mean change score: 2.32 [95%-CI: 0.45 to 4.19]). We found very low quality evidence that therapeutic climbing compared to standard exercise therapy may improve physical functioning (difference in mean change score: 16.15 [95%-CI: 4.45 to 27.85]) and general physical health (13.14 [95%-CI: 3.61 to 22.67]) as measured by the SF-36 in adults with chronic low back-pain. Conclusions: Evidence for the effectiveness of therapeutic climbing is limited to small trials at high risk of bias. The effects of therapeutic climbing are therefore unclear.
Precursors of Executive Function in Infants With Sickle Cell Anemia

Executive dysfunction occurs in sickle cell anemia, but there are few early data. Infants with sickle cell anemia (n = 14) and controls (n = 14) performed the “A-not-B” and Object Retrieval search tasks, measuring precursors of executive function at 9 and 12 months. Significant group differences were not found. However, for the A-not-B task, 7 of 11 sickle cell anemia infants scored in the lower 2 performance categories at 9 months, but only 1 at 12 months (P = .024); controls obtained scores at 12 months that were statistically comparable to the scores they had already obtained at 9 months. On the Object Retrieval task, 9- and 12-month controls showed comparable scores, whereas infants with sickle cell anemia continued to improve (P = .027); at 9 months, those with lower hemoglobin oxygen saturation passed fewer trials (R s = 0.670, P = .024) and took longer to obtain the toy (R s = –0.664, P = .013). Subtle delays in acquiring developmental skills may underlie abnormal executive function in childhood.
Derandomized Concentration Bounds for Polynomials, and Hypergraph Maximal Independent Set

A parallel algorithm for maximal independent set (MIS) in hypergraphs has been a long-standing algorithmic challenge, dating back nearly 30 years to a survey of Karp and Ramachandran (1990). The best randomized parallel algorithm for hypergraphs of fixed rank r was developed by Beame and Luby (1990) and Kelsen (1992), running in time roughly (log n)r! We improve the randomized algorithm of Kelsen, reducing the runtime to roughly (log n)2r and simplifying the analysis through the use of more-modern concentration inequalities. We also give a method for derandomizing concentration bounds for low-degree polynomials, which are the key technical tool used to analyze that algorithm. This leads to a deterministic PRAM algorithm also running in (log n)2r+3 time and poly(m,n) processors. This is the first deterministic algorithm with sub-polynomial runtime for hypergraphs of rank r > 3. Our analysis can also apply when r is slowly growing; using this in conjunction with a strategy of Bercea et al. (2015) gives a deterministic MIS algorithm running in time exp (O(log (mn) / log log (mn)).
Human Pose Detection for Video Surveillance

This paper presents a system for real-time detection of defined human poses (i.e. raising of hands) in surveillance video. A single (non-calibrated) video camera is used to record data in an indoor environment. There are two main steps in our proposed system, the extraction of human silhouettes in video data and pose classification. Silhouette extraction is refined by paying attention to the removal of shadow artefacts close to occlusion borders. For pose classification, we combined, adjusted, and implemented two existing methods (star skeleton calculation and its evaluation). We demonstrate that the proposed two-step technique is solving the given task for a large percentage of input data when recording an individual person only.
Association of 17-β Estradiol with Adipose-Derived Stem Cells: New Strategy to Produce Functional Myogenic Differentiated Cells with a Nano-Scaffold for Tissue Engineering

The increased incidence of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in postmenopausal women has been proposed to be associated with a reduction in the level of 17-β estradiol (E2). E2 has also been shown to enhance the multi-differentiation ability of adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) in vitro. However, studies on the potential value of E2 for tissue engineering in SUI treatment are rare. In the present study, we successfully fabricated myogenically differentiated ASCs (MD-ASCs), which were seeded onto a Poly(l-lactide)/Poly(e-caprolactone) electrospinning nano-scaffold, and incorporated E2 into the system, with the aim of improving the proliferation and myogenic differentiation of ASCs. ASCs were collected from the inguinal subcutaneous fat of rats. The proliferation and myogenic differentiation of ASCs, as well as the nano-scaffold biocompatibility of MD-ASCs, with or without E2 supplementation, were investigated. We demonstrated that E2 incorporation enhanced the proliferation of ASCs in vitro, and the most optimal concentration was 10−9 M. E2 also led to modulation of the MD-ASCs phenotype toward a concentrated type with smooth muscle-inductive medium. The expression of early (alpha-smooth muscle actin), mid (calponin), and late-stage (myosin heavy chain) contractile markers in MD-ASCs was enhanced by E2 during the different differentiation stages. Furthermore, the nano-scaffold was biocompatible with MD-ASCs, and cell proliferation was significantly enhanced by E2. Taken together, these results demonstrate that E2 can enhance the proliferation and myogenic differentiation of ASCs and can be used to construct a biocompatible cell/nano-scaffold. These scaffolds with desirable differentiation cells show promising applications for tissue engineering.
A New Framework for Real-Time Adaptive Fuzzy Monitoring and Control for Humans Under Psychophysiological Stress

This paper proposes a new framework for the on-line monitoring and adaptive control of psychophysiological markers relating to humans under stress. The starting point of this framework relates to the assessment of the so-called operator functional state (OFS) using physical as well as psychological measures. An adaptive neural-fuzzy model linking Heart-Rate Variability (HRV) and Task Load Index (TLI) with the subjects’ optimal performance has been elicited and validated via a series of real-life experiments involving process control tasks simulated on an Automation-Enhanced Cabin Air Management System (aCAMS). The elicited model has been used as the basis for an on-line control system, whereby the model predictions which indicate whether the actual system is in error or not, have been used to modify the level of automation which the system may operates under.
The Nature of the 660-Kilometer Discontinuity in Earth's Mantle from Global Seismic Observations of PP Precursors

The 660-kilometer discontinuity, which separates Earth's upper and lower mantle, has been detected routinely on a global scale in underside reflections of precursors to SS shear waves. Here, we report observations of this discontinuity in many different regions, using precursors to compressional PP waves. The apparent absence of such precursors in previous studies had posed major problems for models of mantle composition. We find a complicated structure, showing single and double reflections ranging in depth from 640 to 720 kilometers, that requires the existence of multiple phase transitions at the base of the transition zone. The results are consistent with a pyrolite mantle composition.
A novel image representation and learning method using SVM for region-based image retrieval

Support vector machines (SVM) is gaining a considerable attention as an approach to improvement performance of the content-based image retrieval (CBIR). Most SVM for CBIR rely on global feature, which length of the feature representation is fixed. However, region-based image retrieval (RBIR) use variable length representation, and common kernel utilize the inner product or lp norm in input space, they are infeasible for RBIR. In this paper, we present a SVM-Based relevance feedback techniques for region-based image retrieval including: (1) introducing an image segmentation algorithm and devising a compact and computational effective representation for the color content of a region of an image; (2) using earth mover's distance and hybrid feature including color, texture and shape as feature vector to match image; (3) developing a generalized SVM as a learning machines kernel for region-based image retrieval. Experimental results on a database of 1000 real images demonstrate the efficacy and robustness of the proposed method.
A novel modulation scheme combining the advantages of CP-OFDM and TDS-OFDM

In this paper, a novel modulation scheme named time domain and frequency domain united orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (TFU-OFDM) is introduced. The main characteristic of TFU-OFDM is the joint time-frequency utilization of the pseudo-noise (PN) sequences as guard intervals in time domain and the inserted pilots in frequency domain. Simulation results and analysis show that compared with the cyclic prefixing orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (CP-OFDM) system, TFU-OFDM achieves faster and more reliable synchronization, and provides similar performance of channel estimation and equalization. On the other hand, compared with the time domain synchronous orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (TDS-OFDM) system, TFU-OFDM provides the same synchronization performance, but the computational complexity of channel estimation and equalization is greatly reduced.
Propulsion retrofitting of the tall ship Amerigo Vespucci: Automation design by simulation

The paper is focused on the most important aspects of the electric propulsion retrofitting of the tall ship Amerigo Vespucci, decided by the Italian Navy in 2010 to improve performance, flexibility and reliability of the propulsion system. The automation design is based on a simulation study, aimed at the ship performance prediction in both sailing and motor propulsion conditions. In particular, an original control logic is investigated by numerical simulation, in order to drive the propeller to the “zero-thrust” condition during sailing propulsion: by this way, it could be possible to avoid the negative effect of the trailing propeller on the transmission efficiency and safety, as well as on the vessel speed.
Cytotoxic effects of conjugated linoleic acids on human hepatoma cancer cells (HepG2)

Conjugated linoleic acids (CLAs) are group of polyunsaturated fatty acids that attract considerable attention due to their anticarcinogenic effects. In this study, the viability, apoptosis and cell cycle status of human hepatoma cells (HepG2) following treatment with cis-9,trans-11(c9,t11), trans-10,cis-12 (t10,c12) and mixed isomers of CLA were investigated. Cells were grown routinely on RPMI 1640 media and treated with different concentrations of CLA isomers for 72 hours. 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) cytotoxicity assay, acridine orange/propidium iodide (AO/PI) staining and terminal deoxynucleotide transferase deoxyuridine triphosphate nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay were used to determine the results. The viability of HepG2 cells was reduced significantly (P < 0.05) by all CLA isomers tested in a dose-dependent manner. The median inhibitory concentration (IC50) value varies with type of CLA isomer. Mixed isomers were significantly (P < 0.05) more potent than c9, t11 CLA isomer. All CLA isomers tested were able to induce characteristic apoptotic changes and significant (P < 0.05) proportion of apoptosis. Significantly (P < 0.05) higher proportion of cells in G0/1 and lower proportion in G2/M phases of the cell cycle in treated cells were also observed. Therefore, results suggested that CLA isomers reduce viability and proliferation of HepG2 cancer cells in relation with cell cycle arrest and induction of apoptosis.
Recent Progress of Propolis for Its Biological and Chemical Compositions and Its Botanical Origin

Propolis is the generic name given to the product obtained from resinous substances, which is gummy and balsamic and which is collected by bees from flowers, buds, and exudates of plants. It is a popular folk medicine possessing a broad spectrum of biological activities. These biological properties are related to its chemical composition and more specifically to the phenolic compounds that vary in their structure and concentration depending on the region of production, availability of sources to collect plant resins, genetic variability of the queen bee, the technique used for production, and the season in which propolis is produced. Many scientific articles are published every year in different international journal, and several groups of researchers have focused their attention on the chemical compounds and biological activity of propolis. This paper presents a review on the publications on propolis and patents of applications and biological constituents of propolis.
Branched-chain Amino Acid Supplementation Lowers Perceived Exertion But Does Not Affect Performance in Untrained Males

Greer, BK, White, JP, Arguello, EM, and Haymes, EM. Branched-chain amino acid supplementation lowers perceived exertion but does not affect performance in untrained males. J Strength Cond Res 25(2): 539-544, 2011-The purpose of this study was to determine whether branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) supplementation affects aerobic performance, ratings of perceived exertion (RPE), or substrate utilization as compared with an isocaloric, carbohydrate (CHO) beverage or a noncaloric placebo (PLAC) beverage. Nine untrained males performed three 90-minute cycling bouts at 55% &OV0312;o2 peak followed by 15-minute time trials. Subjects, who were blinded to beverage selection, ingested a total of 200 kcal via the CHO or BCAA beverage before and at 60 minutes of exercise or the PLAC beverage on the same time course. RPE and metabolic measurements were taken every 15 minutes during steady-state exercise, and each of the trials was separated by 8 weeks. Plasma glucose and BCAA concentrations were measured pre- and post-exercise. A greater distance (4.6 ± 0.6 km) was traveled in the time-trial during the CHO trial than the PLAC trial (3.9 ± 0.4 km) (p < 0.05). There was no difference between the BCAA (4.4 ± 0.5 km) and PLAC trials. RPE was reduced at the 75-minute and 90-minute mark during the BCAA trial as compared with the PLAC trial. There were no significant differences found for the trial vs. time interaction in regard to respiratory exchange ratio. Thus, CHO supplementation improves performance in a loaded time-trial as compared with a PLAC beverage. BCAA supplementation, although effective at increasing blood concentrations of BCAA, did not influence aerobic performance but did attenuate RPE as compared with a PLAC beverage.
The Short- and Long-Run Effects of Exchange Rate Changes on the Japanese Electronics Industry

The value of Japanese electronics exports has tumbled since the advent of the Global Financial Crisis, largely because export prices have fallen. This paper presents evidence that the appreciation of the yen between 2007 and 2011 caused yen export prices for electronics goods to fall by more than 20%. Yen export prices fell much more then yen costs over this period, implying that profit margins have been squeezed. This paper also reports that, in the long run, a 10% appreciation of the yen will reduce the volume of electronics exports by 10%. Japanese firms could mitigate the adverse impact of the strong yen by producing innovative products rather than competing based on price in commoditized industries.
Directions in General Relativity: A Pictorial History of some Gravitational Instantons

Four-dimensional Euclidean spaces that solve Einstein's equations are interpreted as WKB approximations to wavefunctionals of quantum geometry. These spaces are represented graphically by suppressing inessential dimensions and drawing the resulting figures in perspective representation of three-dimensional space, some of them stereoscopically. The figures are also related to the physical interpretation of the corresponding quantum processes.
IMPROVED MAXIMIN SELECTION FOR WELL SPREAD PARETO FRONTS

An algorithm to achieve maximal spread and almost perfectly distributed Pareto fronts is presented. The MaxiMin algorithm add points to the archive of selected individuals one by one, each point which is added maximizes the distance from the current selected points. This method is independent of the evolutionary operators used to perform the search. This work explains how to combine the MaxiMin selection with state of the art multi-objective algorithms, such as NSGA-II, SPEA2, and DEMO. Experiments were ran with and without MaxiMin for comparison purposes. ε-MOEA is used as reference. Performance metrics and graphical results are shown for comparison.
A percussion learning system by rhythm internalization using haptic indication

Mastering the correct stroking order and accent technique when playing percussion is important. Percussion learning systems using haptic and visual indications have been developed. Thus, it is efficient for the learner to internalize performance information when learning how to play percussion. In this paper, we describe this process of rhythm internalization. We consider that rhythm internalization enables learners to perceive what is correct playing and to improve their performance. Additionally, because learners using previous learning method are stimulated by the indications of percussion performance information while stroking, perceiving these indications is not easy. We propose a learning method that presents the two phases separately. One of them is a phase where the learners receive the indications of performance information, and the other is a phase where they actually practice stroking. Learners first internalize rhythm through the indications of performance information. This separated learning method enables learners to learn the percussion more efficiently. This paper describes a percussion learning system using rhythm internalization with haptic, visual, and auditory indications and the design of the prototype system. We also present our evaluation of the prototype system's effectiveness.
Strengthening a fiscal pillar: the Uruguayan dual income tax

This paper presents the new system of dual taxation on income that has been introduced in Uruguay to replace the incomplete schedular system applying before. The new system strengthens a pillar of taxation defined as broadly based and capable of generating substantial and stable tax revenues in a country where 60% of fiscal income is consumed by pension and interest payments; in addition, the new system redistributes some 2.5% of total household income. The paper describes the development of the system for taxing income, focusing especially on the four changes it underwent during the twentieth century. It also compares the different models of income tax in use today: (i) the traditional synthetic model, based on the Haig-Simons definition of income; (ii) the flat rate model, derived from Hall and Rabushka’s consumption tax; (iii) the Nordic dual model, which provides for separate taxation of capital income at a fixed rate and earnings at progressive rates; and (iv) the Uruguayan dual model. KEYWORDS
A User's Guide to Uruguay Round Assessments

In this paper we provide a broad overview of the computable general equilibrium (CGE) literature on the Uruguay Round, detailing the policy experiments of various studies and differences in model structures and relating these to the overall pattern of results. We supplement this overview with a discussion of implementation and offsetting factors. Overall, the literature points to significant potential gains from the Uruguay Round, particularly from non-tariff barrier (NTB) liberalization. Strict monitoring and enforcement of NTB-related provisions would yield significant benefits, while lax implementation would imply significant missed opportunities.