ShantanuT01/DACTYL-Pretraining huggingface dataset:
Introduction Consciousness allows us to feel what the world is like. Classically, the operation of working memory (WM) is a concept that has been linked closely to consciousness (Stein & Hesselmann, 2016). Prior research has indicated some WM processes operate based solely on conscious awareness, like storing and maintaining information for decision making (Baars & Franklin, 2003). One of the most influential accounts of WM is the 1974 Working Memory Model devised by Baddeley and Hitch, which represents WM as a multi-component system (Figure 1). WM is regarded as short-term memory, with different information linked to the different systems within. The model proposes that certain components act somewhat independently of one another, traditionally deemed to operate from conscious input (Soto & Silvanto, 2014). The multi-component model includes the central executive, an episodic buffer and 2 storage systems – the visuospatial sketch pad and phonological loop (Baddeley, 2010). Figure 1. The working memory multi-component model proposed by Baddeley and Hitch. The visual working memory (VWM) is one of the most widely researched classifications of WM, also traditionally deemed to use and retain only consciously perceived information (Persuh, LaRock & Berger, 2018). The most emphasized component of VWM is its storage ability, described by the visual short term memory component. However, the VWM also pertains to the ability to maintain information for goal-directed behavior using executive functioning (Gayet, Paffen & Van der Stigchel, 2013). The human brain uses VWM to actively see or experience stimuli, both objective and subjective measures can operationalize this (Persuh, LaRock & Berger, 2018). The advances in the understanding of blindsight have formed an integral part in igniting research to determine the link between VWM and consciousness. Blindsight occurs when despite lesions to the primary visual cortex, inducing cortical blindness, patients can respond to visual stimuli that have not entered visual consciousness (Nakano & Ishihara, 2020). Prior studies have revealed that some goal directed behavior can occur independently of visual consciousness, indicating an ability to encode unconscious visual information in the visual perceptual system (Dutta et al., 2014). Due to the suggestion that VWM can operate on non-conscious input, research over the recent decade has therefore challenged the idea that WM and consciousness are tightly connected and explored VWM as a potentially non-conscious method of information processing (Persuh,
Who are shamans? Shamans are personal beings who are involved in the practice of treating the spirits in a world beyond human understanding. Shamans are able to do this as they have the capacity to take a journey into the world of spirits. They enter the world of spirits where they are able to master the myths behind these spirits. Shamans are extremely vital in the communities where they are found as they help these communities in various ways. For example, they guide their communities during difficult times, for instance, in times of sicknesses, death, pain or when people are faced with difficult choices concerning their lives (Moss, 2010). Shamans can be said to be people with specialist knowledge in a given religious system. The shaman has a great knowledge on the spiritual world, as well as human soul through ecstasy. Thus, they have the power of an unaltered state of mind. This is what enables the shamans to connect with the spiritual world. By so doing, the shamans bring numerous benefits to the community (Moss, 2010). Where are they? Currently, shamans can be found in Eurasia in countries like Siberia, Inner Asia and Mongolia. This is mainly due to the fact that their religious beliefs are closely linked to hunting and gathering activities in society. Shamanism has developed as a result of human beings desiring to exert their control, as well as influence to the natural world and traditional cultures and religions are said to be the oldest forms of healing (Moss, 2010). Consequently, some people estimate that shamanism originated a long time ago and has been part of many religions practiced world wide. For instance, shamanism has been practiced in parts like the Oceania region, Tibet, South America, Korea, as well as China (Moss, 2010). What are their practices for healing? A shaman plays several roles that are clearly defined. As a revered and essential community member, a shaman acts as a dream interpreter, a link between the physical and world of spirits, physician, spiritual minister and a psychiatrist. On the other hand, outsiders perceive a shaman as being a primitive medical doctor. However, to believers in shamanism, the healing rituals undertaken by the shaman offers an avenue for existence with a moral interpretation (Moss, 2010). Healing is one of the major activities undertaken by shamans. There is a difference that exists between shamanistic healing and the conventional healing done in the traditional biomedicine. The difference is in the health implications of a symbolic reality in the two practices (Moss, 2010). This is in terms of mediating that which separates the biophysical and psychocultural aspects of medicine and science. Shamanism healing entails performance of rituals and the ritual activity performed both at the symbolic and social levels has effects on human functioning. A ritual performed by the shamans does have health implications. However, in most cases, healing activities in shamanism involve critical rituals performed as a response to crises in society (Moss, 2010). More so,
Introduction The real purpose of higher education has been debated among experts for a very long time. The educational system of the United States is predominantly defined by a focus on liberal arts that aims to develop the characters of students and equip them with knowledge to navigate the various hurdles of life (Spade 54). In recent times, demands for higher education that encompasses personal and professional development have surfaced. On the other hand, advancements in technology and science have introduced new perspectives that challenge the roles that education plays in society (Masunga 177). Scientific and technological advancements have increased the demand for university education, which is expensive and thus limited to a small number of students. University education should create prepared minds, contribute towards societal development through research and innovation, promote global development, enhance personal and economic growth, and promote responsible citizenship (Spade 57). Roles of universities in education The university should play several roles in developing education especially with regard to research and innovation, character development, preparation of students’ minds, and professional development (Newman 78). One of the major roles that universities should play in education is enlightenment and preparation of students’ minds. The concept of education has evolved significantly due to advancements in technology and science (Spade 55). In contemporary society, education serves a different purpose unlike in traditional setups where education was an avenue for career development only. People went to school to acquire professional skills that allowed them to get certain job. However, today’s society has changed. Advancements in technology have led to the emergence of entrepreneurship and other career options that have undermined the need for higher education (Newman 79). University education should focus on preparing the minds of students in order to equip them with the necessary skills for success in life. In many societies, university education is highly commercialized thus undermining its importance in professional and personal growth (Newman 81). This preparation of minds comes in the form of increased creativity, possession of critical thinking skills, development of problem-solving skills, and ability to find one’s purpose in life (Masunga 180). Advancements in science have necessitated the development of new research methods in order to increase the body of knowledge in different fields (Spade 58). For instance, researc
Introduction The hypothesis chosen for the paper is as follows: the information systems department is important for DEWA to obtain the correct cost management strategy for the assets life cycle. Literature Review Development Cost Todic et al. (2016) discuss how the development of a product influences the stages of the product life cycle, emphasizing that the modern development of a product also involves a solution suitable for all stages of the life cycle. The authors develop a cost management model that allows managing the costs of an individual stage of the life cycle, i.e. at the developmental stage (where the design of the product can lead to almost 60% increase in costs), that will later help adopt solutions, which will support meeting the target profit (Todic et al., 2016). At the same time, Prieto (2012) points out that design is a major driver in Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) assessments but its contributions to Life Cycle Cost (LCC) evaluations are usually smaller, and it is not the primary driver there. Design cost can be affected by design reuse (costs will drop, and design schedule will accelerate), work sharing, and what stage design should be taken to (about the design-build delivery). Design factors considered in Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) are as follows: labor costs related to design, benefits of design standardization and reuse, time (design duration and phasing), the value of risk (e.g., labor availability risk or technology risks), and design uncertainties (for example, rework due to owner’s changes or late input) (Prieto 2012). Wang and Hu (2011) examine the system of the Life Cycle Cost Management (LCC), dividing it into several stages and applying it to the construction industry: decision-making stage, design phase, bidding stage, and construction stage. At the sa
“The Lottery” is a short story by Shirley Jackson about the impact of social conventions on real life. The story uses a utopian plot, in which in a country where people are constantly at war state, there is a tradition to hold a mysterious lottery every year. At the end of the story, it is revealed that the point of the lottery is to select a victim among the community members and collectively stone her to death. This paper argues that the story clearly illustrates the absurdity of myths or traditions, which do not pass the test of common sense. Summary The story describes a festive summer day, when fellow villagers gather to hold a lottery, as a result of which one of them will be stoned to death. The absurdity of the situation is aggravated by the fact that no one from the community condemns what is happening. On the contrary, the lottery is perceived by the villagers as something mystical and filled with a higher meaning. Some of the participants recall the unique cases when all the sheets in the box turned out to be white and say that this happened only once in a hundred years, and after that, the authorities came and forced the villagers to hold the lottery a second time. Among the hundreds of people gathered, including women and children dressed nicely, as if for a Sunday mass, one can hear no more than a dozen timid disgruntled voices condemning the tradition. But in general, no one runs the risk of violating the ritual, which has existed for about two hundred years. After a random selection chooses the family of Bill Hutchinson, residents watch with bated breath how the lottery is now being played among family members, including Dave, who is apparently less than seven years old. The lot falls on Tessie, the wife, and the crowd does their duty responsibly, surrounding her and stoning her to death. Analysis The author skillfully uses details to convey the horror of the situation. Outrage at the absurdity of tradition is expressed by ‘fools,’ in muffled whispers, and at the risk of being expelled from the community. The children have been collecting stones all morning, which are neatly stacked next to the meeting. On the eve of the lottery day, the lottery man responsibly fills the Black Box, and equally responsibly puts a circle on one of the sheets. From the dialogues between senior men, the reader learns that the tradition is in every possible way supported by the ruling military dictatorship. One of the most emotional elements of the plot is the ending of the story when a blind lot must choose between members of the family of Bill Hutchinson. Even more terrifying, when the lot falls on Tessie, the reader is left with the feeling that things didn’t turn out so badly. The choice could fall on Bill, which would deprive the family of a livelihood, or on one of the children, which would be excessive cruelty. It is noteworthy that in the course of the narration, the author points out that some families got into the lottery several times. Therefore, Tessie’s death in no way provides full protection for her family in the future. Thus, the lottery village has a value system that is in conflict with civilized society. The tradition
The American market for medications is often criticized for the lack of competitiveness and the rule of large corporations. It is believed that leading drug producers influence or even form the demand and supply (Fox, 2017). Three major types of medications exist: those protected by patent, brand-name, and generic. The difference between these types of drugs largely lies in the right to produce them, which has a significant effect on the pricing policy (Danzon, Mulcahy, & Towse, 2013). This paper addresses the differences between the demand for these types of drugs with the focus on such concepts as the price elasticity of demand, income elasticity of demand, cross elasticity of demand. Prior to considering the difference in demand, it is important to identify the primary peculiarities of the types of medications mentioned above. The development of new rugs is facilitated by the provision of patents as pharmaceuticals can invest considerable funds, face numerous risks, but gain profit from the products they develop (Greene, 2014). The period of patent protection varies across types of medications and countries. In the USA, it is usually a period of 20 years. Companies also produce and sell drugs under certain brand names. This enables pharmaceuticals to leverage sales through the development of brand loyalty. When patents expire, companies can produce generic medications that are similar to the ones protected by this patent. The primary measure of these medications’ quality is their bioequivalence. There are no brand names, but the focus is on the major constituents. The demand for the three types of medication differs across countries or groups of people, which has a direct effect on their price. Medications that are under patent are usually characterized by high quality and high prices. Price elasticity of demand is usually associated with this type of medications. High prices result in rather low demand. Companies tend to maintain high prices for their patented drugs (Fox, 2017). As for medications with strong brand names, they are often more elastic than the drugs protected by patents. In order to increase revenue, pharmaceuticals choose to reduce prices, which leads to the increase in demand. The competitiveness is higher in this area compared to the market for patented drugs. Companies offer their products while customers are free to choose which one to buy. The demand for these two types of medications often depends on people’s income. The income elasticity of demand can be used to explain this link. When people’s income rises, the demand for high-quality (patented or strong brand names) medications rises. Generic drugs are mainly sold at significantly lower prices as compared to the other two types of medications. Moreover, the cross elasticity of demand of generic drugs is quite high since the demand for brand names and patented medications goes down when generic drugs are introduced. In many cases, generic medications become substitutes for drugs with strong brand names. Nevertheless, people with low price-sensitivity do not switch to cheaper products as they are reluctant to face associated risks (Thakkar & Bill
Introduction In most developing countries, it is evident that traffic fatalities are common. Road fatalities are among the top roots of accidents, being the sixth cause of death worldwide (Shaaban, 2017). In the UAE, traffic crashes have become a rampant problem affecting most road users. On the other hand, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been in a position of achieving development at every level since the early 1980s. This includes all its sectors within the economy as well as the urban centers. However, the significant change was realized through the enlarged population and, at the same time, the increase in the number of vehicles moving around the emirate. This has been achieved through economic development and increases in employment opportunities across the country. On the other hand, this has amplified the traffic problems, especially among most road users in the UAE. Road accidents have affected every road user, including the driver and pedestrian, being the leading cause of death. To ensure that the country is handling augmented traffic crashes, it has introduced road safety measures that everyone should observe. Among the strategies that the UAE has used to enhance road safety, road policing, traffic enforcement, and other, associated penalties are essential. The efforts have yielded positive results for the country, and the relevant authorities are working to ensure road safety is a priority. Everyone has an obligation to follow the set of regulations regarding road use. The major goal of the government is to ensure that fatalities from road accidents are reduced. Therefore, the research will examine the opinions of road users about traffic fines and penalties effectiveness in the UAE. Problem Statement Road safety is an essential topic of concern around the world. By 2030, road accidents will be among the leading causes of death worldwide, especially in countries still developing (Shaaban, 2017). The developing countries have become the primary victims of accidents, with an expected increase in road fatalities by 2030 if this trend continues (Shaaban, 2017). To respond to such an increase in road fatalities, the UAE has introduced policies that must be followed on the roads. Any deviation from such laws attracts penalties to the offenders. One of the approaches is legalizing seat belts in 1999 to reduce road accidents (Shaaban, 2017). The effectiveness of these policies and penalties was to ensure that the rate of accidents and compliance with road users’ rules are upheld. Since the enactment of the related policies, there have been various public opinions by road users. The procedures an
It is very difficult to take straight away the word society to mean civilization or group of people the way it is, simply because there are some aspects that need to be addressed in order to understand societal existence, economy and equilibriums, if the United States build a society for herself and Muslim world do the same, then we are a far away and we shall not stop to drift apart day by day, although is common that humanity is prone to divisions which leads to exploitation and injustice. Social-economic equilibrium The society we leave in and the economy we operate in brings together two complex situations that need a balance. The word equilibrium of society alone tries to explain the fact that when an economy is in equilibrium then even the society as an entity is also in equilibrium or balance in oth
Abstract This paper seeks to highlight on the issue of The Atlantic Slave Trade in relation to factors that led to the Atlantic Slave trade, how the Atlantic slave trade operated, effects of the Atlantic slave trade and finally end of the Atlantic slave trade. The Atlantic Slave Trade The Atlantic Slave Trade was one of the most inhumane forms of slavery. It should, however, be noted that it was neither the first nor the only slave trade [1] . By The eighteenth century, a large percentage of the European population was descendants of slaves. Slavery was not only about the Africans who endured the Atlantic Slave Trade. The most common slavery worldwide was domestic slavery. The rich in the society owned slaves in their homes. In some societies, the more the slaves one had, the higher his or her social status became. Africans had been undergone slave trade for many centuries, reaching Europe through trans-Saharan and Islamic-run trade routes [2] . Slavery was a tradition in many African societies. Various kingdoms took part in debt bondage, serfdom and chattel slavery. The most severe forms of the slave trade existed in West Africa. An example is the Atlantic Slave Trade, which reduced human beings to commodities. The trade began in the mid-fifteenth century, and was at its peak by the eighteenth century. [3] Europeans had become involved in the extensive gold and salt trade across the Sahara Desert. This was extremely cumbersome since they depended on African merchants to act as middle-men. The Africans would bring them gold from the West African Kingdoms via the Sahara Desert. The Europeans wanted to seek direct access to the gold trade in West Africa and to the spice islands of south-east Asia [4] . European Empires were expanding at an extremely fast rate. However, they lacked a vital resource to match their fast-growing economy. They did not have a work force. In many cases, the natives were unreliable since most of them succumbed to illnesses brought over from Europe. The Europeans, on the other hand, did not adjust well to the climate. Tropical diseases affected many of them. Africans, however, proved to be excellent workers. They had vast experience in farming, tropical diseases did not affect them, and they could be forced to work on plantations and mines. Many crops could not be grown in Europe. Exporting them to Europe from the New World was more economical. The plantations required a vast amount of labor in order for any profits to be realized [5] . Free Europeans easily owned land since cheap land was available. This led to increased labor shortage since not many Europeans were available to work in the farms. What began as a harmless gold and spice trade ended up giving rise to the slave trade. [6] The Atlantic Slave Trade operated like a triangle which involved Africa, Europe and the Americas. All the three stages of the Triangular Trade proved to be economically beneficial to the merchants. The first stage was from Europe to Africa. Transportation of manufa