Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Information and expectations in policy-making: Friedman’s changing approaches to macroeconomic dynamics

L’article montre comment Friedman en vint progressivement a incorporer le processus de formation des anticipations dans son analyse des desequilibres macroeconomiques. Nous montrons que le jeune monetarisme de Friedman est base sur un ajustement lent des prix et des salaires, en grande partie a cause de l’existence de contrats de long terme. Quand il posa la question des anticipations dans ses travaux en dynamique macro-economique, Friedman considera d’abord des anticipations statiques. Au milieu des annees 1960, sa critique « anticipationniste » de la courbe de Phillips placa au cœur de l’analyse l’idee que les agents prives ajustent progressivement leurs previsions a un nouvel environnement informationnel. Neanmoins, les anticipations adaptatives impliquent un comportement retrospectif (tournes vers le passe) s’agissant de la structure des prix, sans tenir de l’effet probable d’une politique discretionnaire sur l’etat de l’economie dans le futur ; d’ou les erreurs systematiques de prevision commises par les agents economiques. Friedman prendra finalement en consideration des comportements prospectifs (tournes vers le futur) dans les annees 1970s mais sans cependant adopter pleinement l’approche de la politique economique par le courant des anticipations rationnelles. On peut trouver dans le monetarisme tardif de Friedman un echo de son travail ancien avec Savage a propos des attitudes face au risque, base sur l’approche en termes de probabilite subjective. Mais ceci est le resultat residuel d’un processus extremement long.
Communication That Leads to Successful Social Inclusion For Children With Hearing Loss: Are Excellent Speech and Language Skills Sufficient?

Abstract Many children with hearing loss have atypical social communication skills despite having age-appropriate speech and language. Graduate assessments in an early intervention program for children with hearing loss indicated that despite achieving language skills within typical limits for over a decade, social skills development was frequently delayed. Data gathered in 2007 and 2012 indicated the majority of children with hearing loss demonstrated poor acquisition of concepts linked to theory of mind (ToM), achieving either delayed or alternative acquisition patterns. A small-group 8-week social skills intervention program was subsequently implemented for graduating cohorts with the aim of developing and improving social interactions. In 2017, measures of ToM were collected for 15 children with hearing loss aged 4–6 years and compared to ToM 2007 and 2012 cohort data. An additional measure of social understanding and flexibility, a persuasion task, was also implemented. Although ToM skills for the majority of the 2017 cohort were found to be on par with hearing peers, and were better than skills demonstrated by the 2007 and 2012 graduates, ability to successfully participate in a socially significant persuasion task with a peer was delayed. Challenges and solutions to the development of age-appropriate social skills are proposed.
Recent Progress in Low-Cost Catalysts for Pyrolysis of Plastic Waste to Fuels

The catalytic and thermal decomposition of plastic waste to fuels over low-cost catalysts like zeolite, clay, and bimetallic material is highlighted. In this paper, several relevant studies are examined, specifically the effects of each type of catalyst used on the characteristics and product distribution of the produced products. The type of catalyst plays an important role in the decomposition of plastic waste and the characteristics of the oil yields and quality. In addition, the quality and yield of the oil products depend on several factors such as (i) the operating temperature, (ii) the ratio of plastic waste and catalyst, and (iii) the type of reactor. The development of low-cost catalysts is revisited for designing better and effective materials for plastic solid waste (PSW) conversion to oil/bio-oil products.
Fluid-Structure Interaction Modelling of a Soft Pneumatic Actuator

This paper presents a fully coupled fluid-structure interaction (FSI) simulation model of a soft pneumatic actuator (SPA). Previous research on modelling and simulation of SPAs mostly involves finite element modelling (FEM), in which the fluid pressure is considered as pressure load uniformly acting on the internal walls of the actuator. However, FEM modelling does not capture the physics of the fluid flow inside an SPA. An accurate modelling of the physical behaviour of an SPA requires a two-way FSI analysis that captures and transfers information from fluid to solid and vice versa. Furthermore, the investigation of the fluid flow inside the flow channels and chambers of the actuator are vital for an understanding of the fluid energy distribution and the prediction of the actuator performance. The FSI modelling is implemented on a typical SPA and the flow behaviour inside the actuator is presented. Moreover, the bending behaviour of the SPA from the FSI simulation results is compared with a corresponding FEM simulation.
Cricket: A virtualization layer for distributed execution of CUDA applications with checkpoint/restart support

In high‐performance computing and cloud computing the introduction of heterogeneous computing resources, such as GPU accelerator have led to a dramatic increase in performance and efficiency. While the benefits of virtualization features in these environments are well researched, GPUs do not offer virtualization support that enables fine‐grained control, increased flexibility, and fault tolerance. In this article, we present Cricket: A transparent and low‐overhead solution to GPU virtualization that enables future research into other virtualization techniques, due to its open‐source nature. Cricket supports remote execution and checkpoint/restart of CUDA applications. Both features enable the distribution of GPU tasks dynamically and flexibly across computing nodes and the multitenant usage of GPU resources, thereby improving flexibility and utilization for high‐performance and cloud computing.
Party Messaging in the U.S. House of Representatives

Both Congressional parties compete to promote their own reputations while damaging the opposition party’s brand. This behavior affects both policy-making agendas and the party members’ communications with the media and constituents. While there has been ample study of partisan influence on legislative agenda-setting and roll call voting behavior, much less is known about the parties’ efforts to shape the public debate. This paper analyzes two strategic decisions of parties: the timing of collective efforts to influence the public policy debate and the substantive content of these “party messaging” events. These dynamics are analyzed using a unique dataset of 50,195 one-minute speeches delivered on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives from 1989 to 2016. We find a pattern of strategic matching—both parties are more likely to engage in concurrent messaging efforts, often on the same issue.
Delivered Dose Verification for Lung Cancer Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy Using Cone-Beam CT

Purpose: Verified the delivered dose distribution of lung cancer Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT) using the cone-beam CT images. Methods: Twenty lung cancer patients who underwent SBRT with 100 CBCT images were enrolled in this study. Delivered dose distributions were recalculated on CBCT images with the deformed and non-deformed methods, respectively. The planned and delivered dose distributions were compared using the dose-volume histograms. Results: The delivered target coverage (V100) per patient inside target volume deviated on average were 0.83% ± 0.86% and 1.38% ± 1.40% for Pct vs. Pcbct and Pct vs. Pdcbct, respectively. The Conformity Index (CI) and Gradient Index (GI) showed a good agreement among the plans. For the critical organs, only minor differences were observed between the planned dose and the delivered dose. Conclusions: CBCT images were a useful tool for setup and dose delivery verification for lung cancer patients who underwent SBRT.
Distributed maximum correntropy unscented Kalman filtering with state equality constraints

This article investigates the distributed maximum correntropy unscented Kalman filtering problem for nonlinear systems via a sensor network. The system dynamics is subject to state equality constraints and non‐Gaussian noise. By utilizing the maximum correntropy criterion to handle non‐Gaussian noise, a centralized maximum correntropy constrained unscented Kalman filter is first proposed. Then, two novel distributed maximum correntropy constrained unscented Kalman filters with special features are designed. Specifically, the first one is developed by approximating the centralized filter with each sensor's own and its neighbors' measurements. The other one is designed by fusing state estimates. It is worth mentioning that these two distributed algorithms only need finite steps to fuse information over the sensor network rather than infinite steps to achieve the average consensus. Finally, the validity of the proposed algorithms is demonstrated by simulation experiments, with a detailed comparison.
Spasmolytic effect of Lonicera japonica extracts on isolated uterus smooth muscle contractions

Introduction: Honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica) is an ornamental flowering plant with numerous traditional medicinal uses. It has been claimed to have anti-spasmodic activities, but only limited studies have been done to support this. The objective of this research was to investigate anti-spasmodic effect of L. japonica flower extract on uterus contractions. Methods: Hydroalcoholic extract was prepared using the maceration technique. In addition, chloroform and ethyl acetate fractions were prepared using a solvent in solvent fractionation technique. Essential oils were collected using the hydro-distillation technique. Rat isolated uterus was suspended in an organ bath and contracted with oxytocin, acetylcholine (ACh), KCl, or application of electrical field stimulation (EFS). The relaxant effects of the extract, its fractions, and nifedipine were examined on uterine contrition induced by the above-mentioned stimuli. Results: Nifedipine in a concentration-dependent manner inhibited uterine contraction induced by oxytocin, KCl, ACh, and EFS. L. japonica flower extract also exhibited an inhibitory effect on the isolated rat uterus. Comparison of the hydroalcoholic extract with its chloroform and ethyl acetate fractions showed that the chloroform fraction was the most potent and the ethyl acetate the weakest part of the plant with antispasmodic activity. The relaxant effect of essential oil had close similarities to that of chloroform extract. Conclusion: Lipophilic compounds isolated by the chloroform partition of crude hydroalcoholic extract of L. japonica flower exhibited the most antispasmodic activity. Ethyl acetate partition of the same extract exhibited the least activity. Therefore, it can be concluded that the spasmolytic constituents of L. japonica flower reside in chloroform partitioning. The nonpolar essential oils may also have a contribution.
Success Factors of Web Integrated Library System and Job Satisfaction in Academic Libraries

Web integrated library system performance is important to evaluate as it is used in managing library activities and holds millions of library records. To have an effective web integrated library system for staff, it is essential for the library to offer high quality systems, service, usage and Internet. This study presents a perception on web integrated library system success factors (system quality, service quality, usage quality and Internet quality) and its relationships with job satisfaction. Questionnaires was distributed to 110 library staff who are using the web integrated library system at academic libraries in Selangor, Melaka, Johor, Negeri Sembilan and Pahang. The analyses are undertaken using SPSS. Descriptive findings show moderate perceptions in four variables (system quality, service quality, usage quality and job satisfaction) where the mean value are in the range 3.18 to 3.45 and low perception in one variable (Internet quality) in range 2.69 on a 5-point Likert. Besides that, the results also indicate a positive and high correlation between job satisfaction with usage quality, moderate correlation between service quality and Internet quality. Meanwhile, the relationship between job satisfaction and system quality is weak. The finding of the study is useful for the library to realize that the success factor of a web integrated library system will contribute to their job satisfaction. As to that, the library should improve their library information system to provide a high quality of library product and services.
Screening of Pioneer Metallophyte Plant Species with Phytoremediation Potential at a Severely Contaminated Hg and As Mining Site

Phytoremediation of mine soils contaminated by potentially toxic elements (PTEs) requires the use of tolerant plants given the specific conditions of toxicity in the altered soil ecosystems. In this sense, a survey was conducted in an ancient Hg-mining area named “El Terronal” (Asturias, Spain) which is severely affected by PTE contamination (As, Hg, Pb) to obtain an inventory of the spontaneous natural vegetation. A detailed habitat classification was performed and a specific index of coverage was applied after a one-year quadrat study in various sampling stations; seven species were finally selected (Agrostis tenuis, Betula celtiberica, Calluna vulgaris, Dactylis glomerata, Plantago lanceolata, Salix atrocinerea and Trifolium repens). A total of 21 samples (3 per plant) of the soil–plant system were collected and analyzed for the available and total concentrations of contaminants in soil and plants (roots and aerial parts). Most of the studied plant species were classified as non-accumulating plants, with particular exceptions as Calluna vulgaris for Pb and Dactylis glomerata for As. Overall, the results revealed interest for phytoremediation treatments, especially phytostabilization, as most of the plants studied were classified as excluder metallophytes.
Prepositional verb/simplex alternation in the Late Modern English period: evidence from the Proceedings of the Old Bailey

ABSTRACT The present study aims to describe the prepositional verb/simplex alternation in the Late Modern English period (LModE) and, specifically, in the period 1750-1850. The intention is to examine the semantic prosody exhibited by verbs that bear a synonymous relationship interpreting the results by accounting for the contents of courtroom discourse. Many studies have examined the prepositional verb/simplex alternation and their occurrence explained by considering various factors such as the degree of formality of the texts and stylistic choice. Diachronically, instead, during the Early Modern English period, the relation between prepositional verbs and their simplex counterparts has been linked to the need for emphasis on specific aspects of narration or associated with the different degrees of expressiveness. Yet in no case, has prepositional verb/simplex alternation been examined by accounting for the semantic prosody and their occurrence linked to the speaker’s evaluation of narrated events, nor have other periods been taken into account. The present study is a corpus-based investigation conducted on the Late Modern English - Old Bailey Corpus (LModE-OBC), a corpus covering the period 1750-1850, which has been compiled by selecting texts from the Proceedings of the Old Bailey, London’s Central Criminal Court.
Exploring the Limit of Multiplexed Near-Field Optical Trapping

The authors G.B. , F.T. , and C.C acknowledge financial support by the POR of Apulia region, IT (FESR FSR 2014−2020, Action 10.4, “Research for Innovation” (REFIN) Initiative). The authors D.C., G.P., K.D. , and T.F. K. acknowledge financial support by the EPSRC of the UK (Grant EP/P030017/1).
“Who is gullible to political disinformation?” : predicting susceptibility of university students to fake news

ABSTRACT This study determined the items that could predict university students’ susceptibility to disinformation (e.g., fake news). Toward this goal, randomly-selected students from the four private universities in Manila answered a content-validated and pilot-tested survey form. Through binary logistic regression analysis, it was found that frequent visits to Instagram, sharing a political post of a friend, and liking a post of a political party could increase the susceptibility of students to fake news. On the other hand, sharing the post of a political party, and seeking the opinion of experts could decrease the susceptibility of students to fake news. Of these items, liking a post with a similar opinion of a political party – a confirmation bias – had the highest contribution to fake news susceptibility of students. It is worth noting that the most reliable source of information, i.e. the library, is the least utilized fact-checking resource. It can be concluded that technological, internal, and external factors contribute either positively or negatively to the susceptibility of students to fake news. Implications to combat fake news are offered.
A narrative review of immune checkpoint mechanisms and current immune checkpoint therapy

: In recent decades, the unique advantages of immunotherapy have led to it playing a pivotal role in clinical and scientific research. Immune checkpoints as the key regulatory molecules of immune activation are critical to the function of the immune system. Many foreign invaders, such as cancer cells and other pathogens, overactivate immune checkpoints to escape capture by the immune system. Immune checkpoint therapy has been developed to counter this overactivation, and has achieved considerable clinical success. Cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen-4 and programmed cell death protein 1 are the two most well-known receptors that downregulate immune responses, and the scientists that discovered these molecules were awarded the 2018 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. Many other immune checkpoints have been described, such as lymphocyte-activation gene 3, T cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain 3, T-cell immunoreceptor with immunoglobulin and ITIM domain, tumour necrosis factor receptor 2, 4-1BB, CD27 and inducible T-cell co-stimulator (ICOS). Some monoclonal antibodies that target immune checkpoints have led to significant clinical responses, but they have limited monotherapeutic efficacy. Combination therapy may thus provide more effective treatment. In this review, we summarise the mechanisms of the major immune checkpoint molecules and the application of selected immune checkpoint inhibitors in clinical cancer therapy. Finally, we briefly discuss the future application and development of immunotherapies that target immune checkpoints.
Relationship Between Lactic Acid Bacteria, Malolactic Fermentation, And Wine Color

Some phenolic acids can either inhibit or stimulate the growth of Oenococcus oeni and other lactic acid bacteria (LAB) in wine. It has been observed that some LAB metabolism could have an influence on wine colour. In this article, some of the relationships between LAB, malolactic fermentation (MLF) and phenolic compounds are summarised; these relationships are important for the selection of LAB to make starter cultures and are of interest for wineries in terms of its effect on wine colour.
A causal model of functional status among persons with liver cirrhosis from four public hospitals in Thailand

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to develop and test the causal relationships between alcohol consumption, social support, illness perception, fatigue and functional status among persons with liver cirrhosis. The hypothesized model was developed based on the theory of unpleasant symptoms.Design/methodology/approachA cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 persons with liver cirrhosis by stratified random sampling. Data were collected at outpatient departments from four public hospitals across three regions in Thailand. Six self-report questionnaires were utilized to collect data from March to August 2020. The developed model was verified via a structural equation modeling analysis.FindingsThe proposed model fit with the empirical data considering from χ2/df = 2.397 (p = 0.061), root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) = 0.056, comparative fit index (CFI) = 0.985, Tucker–Lewis index (TLI) = 0.981, and standardized root mean square residual (SRMR) = 0.048. The model explained 71.30% of the total variance in functional status. Social support was the most influential factor affecting functional status both directly and indirectly through illness perception. Illness perception had a negative direct effect on functional status and a positive indirect effect on functional status through fatigue. Fatigue had a negative direct effect on functional status. Alcohol consumption was found as the lowest influential factor affecting functional status.Originality/valueThis is the first study that explores the characteristics of functional status among persons with liver cirrhosis comprehensively. A causal relationship among various variables found in this study would shed light as important fundamental data for developing interventions to enhance functional status among this population.
Evaluating the fracture behaviour of modified asphalt concrete composites (ACC) at low and intermediate temperatures using edge notched disc bend (ENDB) specimen

In this study, fracture energy and fracture toughness are used to investigate the fracture behaviour of Asphalt Concrete Composites (ACC) in pure mode I and III using Edge Notch Disc Bend (ENDB) geometry at temperatures of −18°C and +25°C. Also, polyester fibre (PE) and calcium lignosulfonate (CL) additives were used separately and simultaneously to improve the performance of ACC's fracture. In order to evaluate the brittleness of the ACC, Flexibility Index (FI), Toughness Index (TI), and Cracking Resistance Index (CRI) were evaluated. The results showed that the top-down cracking potential due to the pure mode III loading condition for the base sample was higher than the opening cracking at −18°C due to lower fracture toughness and fracture energy of pure mode III than pure mode I. At +25°C, the ACC cracking potential was based on the results of fracture toughness and fracture energy for top-down cracking and opening cracking, respectively.