Beginning with precise data on the ratio of structure functions in deep inelastic scattering (DIS) from $^3$He and $^3$H, collected on the domain $0.19 leq x_B leq 0.83$, where $x_B$ is the Bjorken scaling variable, we employ a robust method for extrapolating such data to arrive at a model-independent result for the $x_B=1$ value of the ratio of neutron and proton structure functions. Combining this with information obtained in analyses of DIS from nuclei, corrected for target-structure dependence, we arrive at a prediction for the protons valence-quark ratio: $left. d_v/u_v right|_{x_Bto 1} = 0.230 (57)$. Requiring consistency with this result presents a challenge to many descriptions of proton structure.
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