Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Managing acute coronary syndrome: evidence-based approaches.

PURPOSE To describe data and insights from a national quality improvement initiative known as Can Rapid Risk Stratification of Unstable Angina Patients Suppress Adverse Outcomes with Early Implementation of the American College of Cardiology (ACC)/American Heart Association (AHA) Guidelines (CRUSADE), for managing non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome (ACS), as well as the findings and implications of Acute Catheterization and Urgent Intervention Triage Strategy (ACUITY), a study of bivalirudin with or without a glycoprotein (GP) IIb/IIIa inhibitor in patients with non-ST-segment elevation ACS who were undergoing an invasive intervention, and the results of two recent studies of clopidogrel in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (MI) that are not reflected in current ACC/AHA guidelines for managing ST-segment elevation MI. SUMMARY Data from the CRUSADE registry suggest that there is room for improvement in the use of GP IIb/IIIa inhibitors and clopidogrel during the first 24 hours of hospitalization in patients with non-ST-segment elevation ACS who undergo early invasive cardiac procedures, and in the prescribing of angiotensin converting-enzyme (ACE) inhibitors at the time of discharge. Adherence to ACC/AHA guidelines for non-ST-segment elevation ACS has improved over time but further improvement is needed. Failure to reduce the dose of a GP IIb/IIIa for patients with renal insufficiency resulting in excessive dosing of GP IIb/IIIa inhibitors increases the risk of major bleeding and is particularly common among the elderly, women, and patients with renal insufficiency. The ACUITY study suggests that bivalirudin plus a GP IIb/IIIa inhibitor is a suitable alternative to standard therapy for moderate- to high-risk patients with non-ST-segment elevation ACS who are undergoing early invasive intervention, and bivalirudin alone may be preferred because of a lower risk of major bleeding. However, interpretation of the ACUITY results is complicated by numerous methodologic concerns, so the role of bivalirudin in managing non-ST-segment elevation ACS is still evolving. In patients with ST-segment elevation, clopidogrel provides an early benefit in reopening occluded coronary arteries and a late benefit in reducing cardiovascular mortality and morbidity without increasing the risk of bleeding. Clopidogrel treatment is warranted before as well as after percutaneous coronary intervention in patients with ST-segment elevation MI who receive fibrinolytic therapy. Adding clopidogrel to fibrinolytic therapy and other standard therapy reduces mortality without increasing the risk of bleeding. CONCLUSION Evidence-based guidelines provide recommendations for the management of ACS, but the pace of clinical research is rapid and current guidelines do not reflect the latest research findings. Pharmacists need to stay abreast of new developments and ensure that clinical practice reflects these developments.
Intention to use e-government services among the academic staff in Saudi universities

E-government diffusion and usage is a global topic that concerns many countries worldwide. E-government is a way for providing services of government over online channels of communication to its citizens. Saudi Arabia has implemented a program of e-government in 2005 to encourage performance of public sectors through acquiring the benefits of Information Communication Technology (ICT) advances. This study focuses on the factors that influence intention to use e-government among the academic staff in Saudi Arabia. In addition, this study is to identify the mediating role of e-government awareness on the relationships between social influence, trust of internet and trust in intermediaries and intention to use e-government and the mediating role of perceived risk on the relationships between trust of internet and trust in intermediaries and intention to use e-government. Based on the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB), this study integrated these factors to examine their influences on intention to use e-government. This study utilized a quantitative approach using a survey to reflect consumers’ perspectives towards e-government usage. To examine the hypothesized model, the data were collected from the academic staff working in Saudi public universities. This study employed Partial Least Squares techniques to confirm the validity and reliability of the measurement model and to examine the structural relationships. The findings of the study confirmed the influences of social influence, e-government awareness, trust in intermediary and perceived risk on intention to use e-government. Further, awareness of e-government is influenced by social influence, trust in Internet and trust in intermediary and mediates the relationship between these factors and intention to use e-government. Trust in Internet factor emerged as significant predictor of consumers’ risk perceptions and mediates the relationship between this factor and intention to use e-government. This study has important implications for e-government practitioners, researchers and policy decision makers interested in the implementation of e-government
The Parties to the Nauru Agreement’s Vessel Day Scheme: Accounting for the Rare Success of an International Agreement

International negotiations are notorious for their inability to reach agreements. If an agreement is reached, there are usually serious problems with the strength of the deal, defectors, and failure of implementation. The Vessel Day Scheme between the Parties to the Nauru Agreement (PNA), eight Pacific Island nations, is a modern example of a seemingly successful international agreement that addresses the overexploitation of the Pacific Island tuna fishery. The Vessel Day Scheme is increasing revenue to its parties through licensing fees, decreasing catch to ensure the continued existence of the tuna fishery, and leveraging the PNA to be a stronger international negotiator than the parties would be individually. Considering that many international agreements either fall through, are not ratified by important parties, do not achieve their goals in practice, do not beneficially affect the target resource because of loopholes or non-compliance, or suffer from other crippling problems, the PNA’s experience seems unique. This Article identifies and analyzes the factors that enable the PNA to experience success at a time when many other international agreements are weak, stalled, or are not implemented or enforced in practice. * 2014 California Sea Grant State Fellow. J.D. , May 2013, UCLA 104 CHI. -KENT J. INT’L & COMP. L. Vol. XII
Understanding total cost ownership issues from a value analysis perspective

Commodity industrial products are no longer self-selling ticket items for manufacturers. Such manufacturers need to assess their value chain from a total cost ownership perspective for both their outsourced and in-house parts needed to assemble the commodity product in order to better compete in the market place. The key question becomes what procedures should manufacturers follow to understand cost and mark-up behavior patterns and their documentation procedures for such parts? In order to identify and eliminate waste at the inter-firm and intra-firm levels a case study using value analysis was conducted for a commodity product manufacturer that outsourced its component parts to independent suppliers. Activity Based Management approach was used to identify the key value added activities and the unnecessary resources used for these activities. Using simple value analysis and affinity diagram approaches a list of questions and methodology were prepared for the analysis. Three models of the manufacturer’s product that required similar components but slightly different designs were selected for comparison purposes, and their key cost drives were determined. Problems in the manufacturer’s cost differentiating strategies were identified and practical solutions offered.
The Copper Transporter (Ctr) Family of Cu+ Uptake Systems

Copper (Cu+) transporters of the Ctr family are sequence diverse eukaryotic proteins that function by an unknown mechanism of action. We have conducted bioinformatic analyses of sequenced Ctr proteins. Multiple paralogues are found in single organisms, and these may be either closely or distantly related to each other. Protein phylogeny generally correlates with organismal source and protein size with proteins of each cluster being derived from a specific eukaryotic kingdom and exhibiting characteristic domain arrangements. Some homologues exhibit repeats of the basic 3 TMS unit. Regions of conserved hydrophobicity and amphipathicity suggest functional roles, particularly for putative TMSs 2 and 3 which possess a nearly fully conserved M X3 M motif in putative TMS2. We propose that this motif comprises the transmembrane Cu+-binding site in oligomeric channels that take up Cu+ by a passive, membrane potential-dependent mechanism.
MOBILITY OF NATURAL RADIONUCLIDES AND SELECTED MAJOR AND TRACE ELEMENTS ALONG A SOIL TOPOSEQUENCE IN THE CENTRAL SPANISH PYRENEES

Natural gamma-emitting radionuclides (U, Ra, Th, Pb) and selected major and trace elements (Ca, K, Mg, Na, Fe, Al, Mn, Pb, Ba, Zn, Sr, Li, Co, Ni, Cu, Cr, Cd) were determined in a soil toposequence along a mountain slope of the Tertiary Flysch landscapes in the Central Spanish Pyrenees. A variety of basic properties were also measured from the soil profiles. Mean radioisotope activities (Bq kg ) range from 22 to 33 for U; 25 to 32 for Ra; 23 to 33 for Pb and 37 to 46 for Th. The radionuclides showed different patterns in their depth distribution, thus U and Pb had largest differences in concentrations down the soil profiles whereas Ra and Th exhibited quite uniform depth distributions. U was depleted in all upper soil layers and enriched in deeper layers. Pb exhibits very different depth profiles along the soil toposequence and accumulated at upper layers in three sites. U/Ra activity ratios indicate disequilibrium in the U decay chain and reflect the leaching of U in
Using Mixed Reality and Natural interaction in Cultural Heritage Applications

In this paper, we present a general architecture for Mixed Reality applications. The proposed solution has been developed in order to provide a useful instrument to develop Cultural Heritage applications. During the design of the system, particular attention was given to intangible knowledge, such as manual activities, performing arts, lost civilizations habits, representing a particular heritage poorly addressed by previous studies. The system aims at providing an easy and engaging infrastructure to develop immersive application to be used for communication / dissemination and education purposes. The proposed architecture exploits Natural User Interfaces solutions as interaction metaphor between the Virtual Environment and the user. Natural interaction in fact provides high sense of presence and immersion to the user, improving the user engagement and fostering the learning process. The paper presents also two case studies, where two different applications aimed at teaching and disseminating crafts knowledge, in particular printmaking and weaving, have been developed on top of the presented architecture.
Obstacle detection and road segmentation by 3-D reconstruction based on monocular vision

Using monocular systems in computer vision has many advantages including low cost, high mobility, etc. In this paper we reconstruct 3-D spatial model using single still image so as to fulfill the task of obstacle d tection and road segmentation. In our solution, we represent 3D spatial model as two important parts: spatial lay out and object depth. Firstly, we present an algorithm to annotate objects in the images such as road, buildings, the n w utilize a state-of-the-art depth estimation algorithm to obta in depth map from the image, and an SVM is used to combine spatial layout and object depth so as to get obstac le detection result. Finally, the experimental resu lts show that this method is simple and effective which has high pract ic l value.
INFLUENCE OF WORKING CAPITAL MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES ON FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF DEPOSIT TAKING INSTITUTIONS A SURVEY OF SACCOs IN KISII COUNTY, KENYA

Deposit taking institutions play a crucial role in the economy. Despite, most of them have had difficulties in their operations leading to slow growth in profitability and some going under, probably due to weak working capital management practices. Purpose of this study was to investigate influence of working capital management techniques (management of accounts receivables, inventories and accounts payables) on financial performance of deposit taking institutions. Descriptive design was used to examine the three savings and credit cooperative societies licensed by SACCO societies’ regulatory authority of Kenya with target population being 45 respondents. Census technique was used. Primary data was collected using a structured questionnaire and secondary data obtained from audited financial statements which was then analyzed using descriptive statistics. From the findings, study established that management of accounts receivables reduces the amount of cash that is tied up in the hands of customers which then leads to increased profitability of firms. Accounts payables of firms continue to shoot up every day to a point that delivering of services is threatened and for organizations to remain profitable, inventory should be kept at the right quantities since if kept idle would involve holding cost which reduces profitability.
Measuring Technological Capability and Technological Catch-Up Process Using Patent Data at the National Level

Although patent data has been utilized in previous studies, none focus explicitly on the real difference between advanced and developing countries in the area of technological capabilities. We propose that patent data can capture three dimensions of technological capability. First, the simple number of patents can be a measure of technological capability. Second, the number of the sectors of patent registration can also represent technological capabilities. Third, the number of citations can be another measure of technological capabilities. In general, the growth of technological capability simultaneously involves changes in all three of these dimensions. Utilizing patent data extensively, we find a significant difference between advanced and developing countries in terms of technological capabilities as measured by 1) the size as measured by the number of patents, 2) the scope/diversity as measured by the number of the sectors , and 3) the quality of their innovations as measured by the number of citations. And extending this framework, the course of technological catch-up in the technological area can be depicted by the above three measures.
Effects of Intermediate Input Tariff Reduction on Innovations in China

Innovation plays a key role in economic growth. In this paper, we investigate the effects of intermediate input tariff reduction on the innovation activities of domestic firms. Input tariff reduction has two opposite effects on the innovation decision of a firm: it may promote innovation because the cost of innovation activities decreases, but it may also result in a decrease in innovation because foreign technologies become cheaper. We use Chinese firm-level data from 1998 to 2007, which features a drastic input tariff cut in 2002 because of China's WTO accession, and find that input tariff cut results in less innovation undertaken by Chinese firms. The findings are obtained using the difference-in-differences technique and are robust to various specifications checks of the model. We also provide a theoretical framework to generate insights to the empirical findings.
From Satisfied to Memorable: An Empirical Study of Service and Experience Dimensions on Guest Outcomes in the Hospitality Industry

ABSTRACT Central to the experience economy paradigm is the notion that services and experiences are distinct economic offerings; yet, little work has been done to investigate the assumption. This study examined experience economy dimensions (entertainment, esthetics, escapism, and education) alongside service quality dimensions (technical and expressive) on three outcome variables (satisfaction, service quality, and memorable experience) in the hospitality and tourism industry context. Findings provide empirical support for the progression of value posited in past research and reveal that experience and service dimensions indeed differ in their impact on guest outcomes. Significant differences across four types of offerings—dining, lodging, events, and attractions—are discussed within the context of extant literature.
Organization of Glutamate Receptors at the Synapse

Glutamate receptors can be divided in several groups with distinct functional properties. An additional level of complexity has emerged from recent high resolution immunogold analyses which have provided evidence for a differential targeting of glutamate receptors to specific subsynaptic membrane domains. Notably, different types of glutamate receptor may differ in their distance to the release site and in their spatial relation to glutamate transporters. These data imply that the subsynaptic expression of a given glutamate receptor may bias its response to a released quantum of transmitter and suggest that receptor targeting may be implicated in the modulation of glutamatergic neurotransmission.
Limited-Pool Random Carrier-Frequency PWM for Digitally Controlled dc-dc Converters

This paper investigates the application of a limited-pool random pulse-width modulation (RPWM) to high frequency digitally controlled DC-DC power converters. The use of a suitably selected small number of switching frequencies ensures the generation of a flat and widespread spectrum, while limiting the system complexity, especially from the integrated circuit (IC) point of view; moreover the spreading action achieved is almost equivalent to the one obtained with a larger ensemble of frequencies. In the presented solution, the randomization action affects both the switching period and the turn-on interval, realizing the random carrier-frequency modulation with fixed duty cycle (RCFMFD). Moreover, the generation of the random number stream is based on a simple linear feedback shift register. The design of the switching frequencies pool and the evaluation of system performances have been realized using an accurate time-based model of the spectrum analyser. Experimental results on a DC-DC synchronous buck converter, where the digital control has been implemented in field programmable gate array (FPGA), confirm the properties of the proposed solution
Maximum insufflation capacity: vital capacity and cough flows in neuromuscular disease.

OBJECTIVE To investigate the relationships between vital capacity (VC), maximum insufflation capacity (MIC), and both unassisted and assisted peak cough flows (PCFs). DESIGN The 108 patients were divided into two groups, those whose MICs were greater than their VCs (group 1) and those whose MICs could not exceed their VCs (MIC = VC, or group 2). RESULTS The MIC correlated positively with the VC for group 1 patients, but the percent increase in MIC correlated negatively with VC. Both VC and MIC correlated significantly with both unassisted and assisted PCF, respectively. Assisting the cough increased the PCF of 37 patients over a previously defined critical level of 2.7 L/sec. The MIC VC difference and percent increase in MIC also correlated significantly with the difference between unassisted and assisted PCF. Although the group 2 patients did not have true cough flows because of inability to close the glottis, their peak expiratory flows were significantly less than the unassisted and assisted PCF of the group 1 patients. CONCLUSIONS The greater the MIC VC difference, the greater the PCF, and, thereby, the ability to expel airway mucus and avert respiratory complications. The lower the VC, the greater the percent increase in MIC and the greater the percent increase in assisted PCF. Maximal insufflations are extremely important to increase PCF for patients with neuromuscular conditions who have VCs of < 1500 ml.
Enhancing Six Sigma Implementation Through Human Resource Management

While many companies have implemented Six Sigma and claim that they have achieved remarkable benefits from their investment, not all Six Sigma implementations yield the positive results promoted by its advocates. Human resource management (HRM) is recognized as a critical factor that influences the adoption of Six Sigma in organizations. Using data collected from 95 manufacturing plants that practice Six Sigma, this study investigates the role of three quality-oriented HRM practices—employee involvement, employee training, and employee performance and recognition—in Six Sigma implementation. Results of this study indicate that the three HRM practices significantly affect the use of Six Sigma methodology. In addition, it is found that Six Sigma role structure (that is, the human infrastructure for Six Sigma using the Six Sigma Green and Black Belt system) integrates with the traditional quality-oriented HRM practices in supporting the use of Six Sigma methodology.
Systematizing Genomic Privacy Research - A Critical Analysis

Rapid advances in human genomics are enabling life science researchers to gain a better understanding of the role of the variation in our ancestry, health, and well-being, which stimulates hope for more cost efficient and effective healthcare. However, this progress also yields a number of security and privacy concerns, stemming from the distinctive characteristics of genomic data. Aiming to address them, a new research community has emerged, producing a large number of publications and initiatives. In this paper, we introduce and execute a structured methodology to systematize the current knowledge around genome privacy research, focusing on privacy-enhancing technologies used in the context of testing, storing, and sharing genomic data, while selecting a representative sample of the community's work. Using carefully crafted systematization criteria, we provide and discuss critical viewpoints and a comprehensive analysis on the timeliness and the relevance of the work produced by the community. In doing so, we highlight that proposed technologies can only offer protection in the short-term, scrutinizing assumptions made by the community, and analyzing the costs introduced by privacy defenses in terms of various types of utility and flexibility overhead.
Propagation Measurements and Comparison with EM Techniques for In-Cabin Wireless Networks

This paper presents results of a narrowband measurement campaign conducted inside a Boeing 737–400 aircraft, the objective being the development of a propagation prediction model which can be used in the deployment of in-cabin wireless networks. The measurements were conducted at three different frequency bands: 1.8, 2.1, and 2.45 GHz, representative of several wireless services. Both a simple, empirical, inverse distance power law and a deterministic, site-specific model were investigated. Parameters for the empirical model were extracted from the measurements at different locations inside the cabin: aisle and seats. Additionally, a statistical characterization of the multipath scenario created by the transmitted signal and the various cabin elements is presented. The deterministic model, based on Physical Optics (PO) techniques, provides a reasonable match with the empirical results. Finally, measurements and modeling results are provided for the penetration loss into the cabin (or out of the cabin), representative of interference scenarios.