Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Laboratoire D'arithmétique, Calcul Formel Et D'optimisation Stabilization of Oscillators Subject to Dry Friction: Finite Time Convergence versus Exponential Decay Results Stabilization of Oscillators Subject to Dry Friction: Finite Time Convergence versus Exponential Decay Results

We investigate the dynamics of an oscillator subject to dry friction via the following differential inclusion (S) ¨ x(t) + ∂Φ(˙ x(t)) + ∇f (x(t)) 0, t ≥ 0, where f : R n → R is a smooth potential and Φ : R n → R is a convex function. The friction is modelized by the subdifferential term −∂Φ(˙ x). When 0 ∈ int (∂Φ(0)) (dry friction condition), it is shown in [1] that the unique solution of (S) converges in a finite time toward an equilibrium state x∞ provided that −∇f (x∞) ∈ int (∂Φ(0)). In this paper, we study the delicate case where the vector −∇f (x∞) belongs to the boundary of the set ∂Φ(0). We prove that either the solution converges in a finite time or the speed of convergence is exponential. When Φ = a |. | + b |. | 2 /2, a > 0, b ≥ 0, we obtain the existence of a critical coefficient bc > 0 below which every solution stabilizes in a finite time. It is also shown that the geometry of the set ∂Φ(0) plays a central role in the analysis.
Motor neurone disease: insight into experience of family carers

Background Palliative care at home relies on family carers. Motor neurone disease (MND) is a progressive, degenerative disease that affects both the person with the condition and the family which provides care and support. Aim This study aimed to provide a qualitative insight into carers’ experience of living with and caring for a family member with MND. Methods Following ethical approval, nine current carers were purposively sampled from a regional MND clinic. Qualitative, semistructured interviews were audiotaped, transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically using Colaizzi’s framework. Findings Five themes were identified: (1) ‘MND: the specifics and differences’ (reflecting the specific nature and progression of the disease); (2) ‘normality vs reality’ (providing an insight into daily living); (3) ‘defining the total loss but holding onto hope’ (encompassing past, present and future losses, whilst maintaining a positive attitude); (4) ‘information needs and support — at whose pace? ’ (recognising the differences in need between the carer and the person with MND); (5) ‘living with a tension of contradiction’ (this is an underpinning theme which runs throughout all the themes). Conclusion Understanding carers’ experience and its individual nature can act as a foundation upon which individual palliative assessment of need and support can begin. Conflicts of interest None
Automated Generation of Region Based Geometric Questions

We extend our previously proposed framework that combines a combinatorial approach, pattern matching and automated deduction to generate geometry questions which, directly or indirectly, require finding the congruent regions formed by the intersection of geometric objects. The extension involves proposing a knowledge representation for regions and a rule-based algorithm for generation of region-based knowledge representation. In addition, several algorithms such as circle/arc projection to straight line (s) are proposed to avoid numerical reasoning for proving congruent regions, making the solution eligible for high school geometry domain. Furthermore, we propose the integration of this framework with our previously proposed framework to generate questions involving both implicit construction and congruent regions. The system is able to generate the solution (s) of the questions for their validation. Such a system would help teachers to quickly generate large numbers of questions based on several properties of geometric objects such as length, angle, area and perimeter. Students can explore, revise and master specific topics covered in classes and textbooks based on generated questions. This system may also help standardize tests such as Primary School Leaving Exam (PSLE), GMAT and SAT. Our methodology uses (i) a combinatorial approach for generating geometric figures (ii) Pattern matching and rule-based approach for region generation (iii) automated deduction for checking equality of properties of geometric objects (iv) linear equation solver to generate new questions and solutions. By combining these methods, we are able to generate questions involving finding or proving congruence relationships between the regions generated by the geometric objects based on a various specifications such as objects and concepts. Experimental results show that a large number of questions can be generated in a short time. A survey shows that the generated questions and the solutions are useful and fulfills the high school criteria.
Feedback with soil biota contributes to plant rarity and invasiveness in communities

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Stimulus‐induced myoclonus and burst suppression on EEG: Effects of phenytoin toxicity

The symptom that prompted investigation of this child was his progressive ataxia, but there were seizures ancl learning problems evident before these signs of cerebellar disease. His family history of ataxia suggested an X-linked mode of inheritance. His scanning speech, limb dysmetria, and ataxic gait implied cerebellar disease, and his hyperreflexia and extensor plantar responses indicated upper motor neuron disease. The C T scan of the brain demonstrated a pattern of white matter disease suggestive of cerebellar demyelination or dysmyelination. The signs, symptoms, and clinical course in this child are typical of a type 2 progressive recessive ataxia [ 1). Dementia, extensor plantar responses, progressive gait and limb ataxia, and hyperreflexia occur with this disorder [lf. Cases of ALMN with prominent cerebellar symptoms are rare, but have been described [3J The principal difference between AMN and ALMN is the severity of the dementia and the rapidity of the course [lo]. Autonomic symptoms, peripheral neuropathy, myelopathy, and prominent sensory loss are also more obvious in AMN than in ALMN. Patients with ALMN have ballooned cells in several tissues, probably filled with lipid. Long-chain fatty acids (C26) also accumulate in ALD and AMN, sugesting a defect in reduction of longchain fatty acids is common to all these syndromes I S , 101. Gross cerebellar changes to explain these symptoms have not been found previously while the patients were alive, but with increasing improvement in the resolution quality of CT these structural changes should be more easily found [7].
A double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study of naltrexone in the treatment of alcohol dependence in Taiwan

The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of naltrexone in Taiwanese Han males with alcohol dependence. In conjunction with limited supportive psychotherapy, 40 alcoholic patients, who met Diagnostic and Statistical Manual version III revised (DSM‐III‐R) criteria for alcohol dependence, were assigned to a randomized double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial of naltrexone hydrochloride (50? mg/day) for 14 weeks following alcohol detoxification. Among recruited patients, 45% (n = 9/20) of the naltrexone‐treated subjects and 35% (n = 7/20) of the placebo‐treated subjects dropped out (p = 0.374). The relapse rates between the two groups were not significant (p = 0.671). Subjects taking naltrexone reported less alcohol craving compared with placebo‐treated subjects. In support of previous reports, the present results suggest that naltrexone may be safe and effective in craving reduction in alcohol‐dependent subjects.
Maximal level estimation and unbalance reduction for graph signal downsampling

The emerging field of graph signal processing requires a solid design of downsampling operation for graph signals to extend pattern recognition, machine learning and signal processing techniques into the graph setting. The state-of-the-art downsampling method is constructed upon the maximum spanning trees of the graphs. However, under the framework of this method, unbalanced downsampling often occurs for signals defined on densely connected unweighted graphs, such as social network data. The unbalance also significantly reduces the maximal downsampling level, making it smaller than the level we expect. In applications, the maximal level must be estimated to ensure that it is larger than the expected level; meanwhile, the unbalance has to be reduced, if it occurs. In this paper, we propose a novel method to jointly estimate the maximal level and reduce the downsampling unbalance. This method also offers an estimation of the possibility of unbalanced downsampling. If a graph signal is classified to be with high unbalance possibility, the maximum spanning tree will be updated to generate a balanced downsampling. The simulation results on synthesis and real world data support the theoretical analysis.
Melatonin down‐regulates MDM2 gene expression and enhances p53 acetylation in MCF‐7 cells

Compelling evidence demonstrated that melatonin increases p53 activity in cancer cells. p53 undergoes acetylation to be stabilized and activated for driving cells destined for apoptosis/growth inhibition. Over‐expression of p300 induces p53 acetylation, leading to cell growth arrest by increasing p21 expression. In turn, p53 activation is mainly regulated in the nucleus by MDM2. MDM2 also acts as E3 ubiquitin ligase, promoting the proteasome‐dependent p53 degradation. MDM2 entry into the nucleus is finely tuned by two different modulations: the ribosomal protein L11, acts by sequestering MDM2 in the cytosol, whereas the PI3K‐AkT‐dependent MDM2 phosphorylation is mandatory for MDM2 translocation across the nuclear membrane. In addition, MDM2‐dependent targeting of p53 is regulated in a nonlinear fashion by MDM2/MDMX interplay. Melatonin induces both cell growth inhibition and apoptosis in MCF7 breast cancer cells. We previously reported that this effect is associated with reduced MDM2 levels and increased p53 activity. Herein, we demonstrated that melatonin drastically down‐regulates MDM2 gene expression and inhibits MDM2 shuttling into the nucleus, given that melatonin increases L11 and inhibits Akt‐PI3K‐dependent MDM2 phosphorylation. Melatonin induces a 3‐fold increase in both MDMX and p300 levels, decreasing simultaneously Sirt1, a specific inhibitor of p300 activity. Consequently, melatonin‐treated cells display significantly higher values of both p53 and acetylated p53. Thus, a 15‐fold increase in p21 levels was observed in melatonin‐treated cancer cells. Our results provide evidence that melatonin enhances p53 acetylation by modulating the MDM2/MDMX/p300 pathway, disclosing new insights for understanding its anticancer effect.
A General Active Capacitor Voltage Regulating Method for L-Level M-Cell N-Phase Flying Capacitor Multilevel Inverter With Arbitrary DC Voltage Distribution

The flying capacitor multilevel inverter (FCMLI) is one of the well-known structures of multilevel inverters having attracted considerable attention because of its merits. In spite of its many advantages, it has some limitations such as high volume and complicated control method because of its bulky capacitors and their voltage balancing requirement. Moreover, the high number of power semiconductors required makes this structure susceptible to failure. To increase the ratio of the number of levels to the number of components, an uneven distribution of capacitor voltages has been suggested in previous reports; however, this approach complicates the control method. Up to now, almost all presented methods suffer from high computational load and/or structure-dependent algorithm. In this paper, a simple state-based and structure-independent method is proposed for capacitor voltage regulation. The proposed method is straightforward and can perform online computation of switching sequences in a computationally efficient manner without any need for stored information or look-up tables. The method is conveniently extendible to any number of cells and levels in an FCMLI structure with arbitrary dc link voltage distribution schemes. Simulation and experimental results show the effectiveness and simplicity of this method.
HARMONIZATION OF ACCOUNTING STANDARDS IN GULF COUNTRIES

NTRODUCTION ONCE Sir Bryan Carsberg (1996) former IASC’s Secretary General stated that “this is a sign of the times. The world is becoming a global marketplace and one can’t refuse to recognize that”. This statement has its long term implications because in today’s fast globalization of trade and investment, harmonization of financial information at national or regional levels is not enough. The accountancy profession has long recognized the need for a globally harmonized accountancy framework. Samuels and Piper (1985) define the harmonization of accounting as an attempt to bring together different systems. It is the process of blending and combining various practices into an orderly structure, which produces a “synergistic result”. While some see harmonization more as a process of moving to a system of uniformity or standardization, most view harmonization as a process whereby the number of allowed accounting alternatives is reduced as a means of promoting greater comparability. Radebaugh and Gray (1997) state pressures for the harmonization of international accounting as a means to achieve comparability, are growing. Several organizations at the international levels have been engaged in this process despite several hurdles involved in this process (see, Joshi, 1998). Therefore, this paper explores and examines some of the possibilities for regional harmonization of accounting standards and practices in the Arabian Gulf.
Factors influencing intention to use personal health records

Purpose – The USA is striving to educate consumers and to promote awareness of personal health records (PHRs) with the launch of the American Health Information Management Association's “It's HI time, America! ” campaign. Although the health management industry favours their use, there is little research from the consumer perspective. The purpose of this paper is to examine factors that bear on consumers' intention to create and to use a PHR.Design/methodology/approach – A total of 542 US college students were surveyed with an online questionnaire asking about several factors associated with intent to create a PHR.Findings – The results showed that being innovative with regard to healthcare, confidence in the privacy and security of the records, and especially perceived usefulness of PHRs were positively associated with intent to create a PHR. Gender, age, presence of a chronic illness, and awareness of PHRs were largely unassociated.Research limitations/implications – The primary limitation of this study .
Daniel Dennett: Reconciling Science and Our Self-Conception

Acknowledgements. Abbreviations. Preface. 1. Dennett and the Philosophy of Mind. 2. Adopting A Stance. 3. Real Patterns. 4. Different Kinds Of Psychology. 5. Explaining Consciousness: The Basic Account. 6. Explaining Consciousness:Developments, Doubts And The Self. 7. Dennetta s Darwin. 8. A Variety Of Free Will Worth Wanting. Notes. Glossary. Bibliography. Index
The role of ANGPTL2-induced chronic inflammation in lifestyle diseases and cancer

Repeated cellular stress due to aging and lifestyle-related activities causes tissue damage. That damage is repaired by a homeostatic process consisting first of acute inflammation and then of adaptive physiologic tissue remodeling meditated by communication between parenchymal and stromal cells. That signaling can occur via cell-to-cell contact or through secreted factors. However, excessive or prolonged stress leads to chronic inflammation and pathologic tissue remodeling, perturbing homeostasis and promoting development of lifestyle-related diseases or cancer. Expression of Angiopoietin-like protein 2 (ANGPTL2) is induced both normally and by diseaseassociated stresses. In the former, ANGPTL2 promotes proper adaptive inflammation and tissue reconstruction and thus maintains homeostasis; however, in the latter, excess ANGPTL2 activation impairs homeostasis due to chronic inflammation and irreversible tissue remodeling, promoting metabolic and atherosclerotic diseases and some cancers. Thus, it is important to define how ANGPTL2 signaling is regulated in order to understand mechanisms underlying tissue homeostasis and disease development. Here, we focus on ANGPTL2 function in these activities and discuss whether excess ANGPTL2 function is a common molecular mechanism underlying lifestyle diseases and cancer. Rec.5/19/2015, Acc.6/15/2015, pp193-202
Liens entre symétries et étirements de routages dans les réseaux d'interconnexions de centres de données

Nous demontrons l'influence de proprietes des reseaux d'interconnexion de centres de donnees sur l'etirement obtenu pour des routages dits "geometriques". Ces routages reposent sur un plongement des sommets du graphe dans un espace metrique "simple" tel que le plan Hyperbolique. Les reseaux d'interconnexions des centres de donnees sont generalement concus pour favoriser les symetries, celles-ci permettant de minimiser la congestion et a chaque entite d'executer le meme protocole de routage. Nous montrons que les symetries d'un graphe ont un impact negatif sur les performances de certains routages geometriques. Plus precisement, nous prouvons que l'existence de symetries (endomorphismes) non-triviales dans le graphe entraine un etirement des plus courts chemins qui est proportionnel au diametre du graphe pour un grand nombre de routages geometriques. Nos resultats sont fondes sur une relation entre l'hyperbolicite d'un graphe (un parametre qui capture plusieurs proprietes metriques du graphe) et l'existence de strategies gagnantes dans une variante du jeu du Gendarme et du Voleur. Nous illustrons nos resultats avec quelques topologies usuelles de la litterature (grilles, hypercubes, de Bruijn, Fat-Tree, BCube, etc.).
Web services classification for disaster management and risk reduction

A disaster is a disruption of the society functioning that can interrupt essential services of our live. It has an important impact on human, material, economic and environment. There a several kind of disaster such as: natural, environmental emergencies and contagious disease that affects health and so on. We need serious and important resources to reduce risk that can be caused by these disasters. So it is important to establish good programs and classify the activities or services that should be launched to handle disasters. Modern technology can be effective in reducing the damage and risk caused by disasters, particularly the use of Web services in disaster management. To this end, the classification of Web services by domain can be very useful to facilitate the services invocation in the event of an emergency or disaster by the concerned authorities. In this paper, we present an approach that combines both a supervised learning method Naïve Bayes and the meta-heuristic of stochastic Local search (SLS) for services classification. SLS is used for attribute selection which reduces the space of attributes. The latter are sent to Naïve Bayes classifier to build models. To evaluate and measure the performance of our approach we used a set of 364 Web services divided into four categories (QWS Dataset). The experiment gives good results compared to other previous works.
A testbed implementation of a trust-aware RPL routing protocol

The RPL routing protocol has gained prominence as the standard IoT routing protocol. However, it faces like many other routing protocols diverse attacks. Many studies have been proposed to secure the RPL protocol, and simulation studies have been put forward as the main research method while testbed experiments though an authentic research and testing method has been ignored. Although Testbed experiments and simulation studies have their strengths and limitations, testbed techniques could be used as veritable validation method for simulation studies. Therefore, it becomes imperative to not only propose simulation studies on securing the RPL protocol from attacks, but to perform testbed experiments that will validate the simulation study. This study is a follow up research work to validate our simulation study, which addressed Blackhole attacks in the RPL routing protocol. It implements a testbed while embedding our Trust-based RPL protocol and the standard RPL protocol in a smart environment configuration. Based on the test experiments, we provide a proof-of-concept of the validity of our claim that our Trust-based RPL protocol provides a comprehensive defense (simulation and testbed) against Blackhole attacks.
Predicting Yelp Business Ratings

The topic of rating predictions has become a classic data mining task with large public datasets such as the Netflix Challenge and Yelp Dataset Challenge becoming readily available. The core of these predictions focus on user rating prediction as the overall rating of a product is simply the average rating given by users. However, what if user ratings are not given and an overall rating of a product needs to be displayed? Of course, the review text left by a user is surely the most indicative of a product’s overall rating, but there are still important factors related to the product itself that must be considered. In this paper, we look at the most recent Yelp Dataset Challenge and propose an approach to predict the overall business rating without using user ratings. Given the direct correlation between overall business rating and user ratings, it comes as no surprise that sentiment analysis on the review text is the most predictive. However, the categories and attributes of a business also contribute a substantial amount.
Preparing multiple-reaction monitoring for quantitative clinical proteomics

With recent advances in mass spectrometry (MS), the chief interest in proteomics appears to be shifting from ‘What protein is there? ’ to ‘How much of the target pro-tein is there? ’ Quantification of target pro-teins using appropriate mass spectrometric methods is the principal goal of clinical proteomics. Thus far, multiple-reaction monitoring (MRM) has been considered to be one of the most effective tools of quan-titative clinical proteomics. Regardless, there has been some skepticism regarding its applicability for clinical proteomics. To address this controversy, we discuss recent data that support the application of MRM to quantitative clinical proteomics.