Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A Novel Class AB CMOS Operational Amplifier

A novel class AB two stage operational amplifier was presented to deal with the problem of the conventional class A two stage operational amplifier’s limited slew rate. The output stage quiescent current was controlled accurately and the slew rate and unity gain bandwidth were enhanced significantly, along with no additional static power dissipation. Simulation results show that the positive and negative slew rates were raised to 35 and 2.2 times and unity gain bandwidth was raised to 5 times when compared with conventional class A operational amplifier. 1
Change of Pain, Lumbar Sagittal Alignment and Multifidus after Sling Exercise Therapy for Patients with Chronic Low Back Pain

Purpose: This study examined the effects of sling exercise therapy on vertebral alignment, VAS, muscle activity, and multifidus of patients with chronic low back pain. Methods: Simple random sampling was used to divide the patients (n=116) into the sling exercise therapy group (SETG) and conservative physical therapy group (CPTG), with each group provided a intervention program in 3 sessions a week for 12 weeks. The lumbar lordosis angle (LLA), lumbar intervertebral disc angle (LIVDA) for vertebral alignment, lumbar muscle activity, and multifidus atrophy were measured before and after the intervention. Results: SETG showed significant changes in LLA, LIVDA of rate of change (delta score), and in relieving pain. The right-left balance gap for the lumbar dynamic muscle activity decreased after the intervention. The SETG showed significant changes in the grade of lumbar multifidus atrophy. Conclusion: The sling exercise therapy program is an effective exercise therapy method on vertebral alignment, muscle activity, recovery from multifidus atrophy, and pain relief for patients with chronic low back pain.
Challenges of Persons Living With HIV/AIDS in Albania Utilizing the Framework of Human Rights

The aim of the paper is to assess the vulnerability of persons living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in Albania and explore to what extent stigma and discrimination prevent people living with HIV (accessing) entitlements and realizing human rights. The questions of individual interviews made with PLHA are divided into several sections, namely in: (i) attitudes, experiences, evocations of PLHA; (ii) models and main forms of PLHA support; (iii) PLHA perceptions of stigma and discrimination and their effect on these people‟s rights. In total were recruited 36 people, 31 PLWHA accepted to be interviewed and the rest didn‟t accept. PLWHA find it difficult to talk about their HIV-positive status even though many of them have been living with this disease for several years. Non- disclosure of HIV-status presents as anxiety in PLWHA, and acts as a significant barrier preventing this patient population from attaining different social and health services. Of the PLWHA that were interviewed, 80% were not sufficiently informed about HIV at the time of diagnoses, and 73% did not have information about the rights and protections that exist for PLWHA. Patients interviewed were unaware of existing services and relevant institutions that address their rights when their rights are violated. by seeing AIDS-related deaths drop (Global health sector strategy on HIV/AIDS 2011-2015 WHO). The increased financial commitment to combat HIV/AIDS also saw a sharp increase from 2001 to 2009 with 1.6 billion US dollars to 15.9 billion US dollars, respectively (Global health sector strategy on HIV/AIDS 2011-2015 WHO). Yet, challenges still persist as HIV infections are still increasing in some regions of the world ,and the number of individuals living with HIV globally remains high(Global health sector strategy on HIV/AIDS 2011-2015 WHO). With cases reported around the globe of violation and abuse of persons living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) or people who were believed to carry the disease, a challenge associated with the HIV/AIDS epidemic is stigma and discrimination (10, 19). Though the association between stigma and discrimination and the HIV/AIDS epidemic is widely accepted, a deeper understanding of this association may potentially lead to improved outcomes of PLWHA and HIV-related illnesses (The Right to Health). Stigma due to HIV-status has indeed resulted in the lack of adequate care and social support for many PLWHA (11). Consequences of stigma as a result of HIV-status acts as a barrier to PLWHA for various reasons that can impact proper treatment: delays in HIV testing, decreased exposure to prevention programs, and hindering the adoption of preventative behaviors, disclosing status (3). Non-disclosure of HIV-status to family members, friends, and service-providing institutions, thought to derive from stigma, prejudice, and discrimination, stymies adequate health care, social life, family support, and social participation of PLWHA. Abstract
Model-based hemodynamic monitoring in critical care for improved diagnosis and treatment.

III Acknowledgements . VI List of Figures. XI List of Tables . XIV Nomenclature . XVI Chapter 1: Introduction and Motivation . 1 1.1 Motivation . 1 1.2 Cardiovascular Physiology . 4 1.2.1 Cardiovascular System Overview . 4 1.2.2 The Heart . 5 1.2.3 The Circulation . 6 1.2.4 Mechanical Properties of the Heart . 8 1.2.5 Mechanical Properties of the Blood Vessels . 13 1.2.6 Summary . 16 1.3 Cardiovascular Dysfunctions . 16 1.3. 1 Distributive . 17 1.3. 2 Cardiogenic . 18 1.3. 3 Hypovolemia . 19 1.3. 4 Obstructive . 19 1.3. 5 Summary . 19 1.4 Clinical Significance of Stroke Volume . 20 1.5 Goals for This Research. 21 1.6 Preface . 22 Chapter 2: Current Hemodynamic Monitors for Stroke Volume . 24 2.1 Aortic Flow Probes . 24 2.2 Admittance Catheters . 25 2.3 Indicator Dilution Methods . 27 2.4 Pressure Contour Analysis . 30 2.5 Minimal to Non Invasive Methods . 32 2.5. 1 Echocardiography . 32 2.5. 2 Oesophageal Doppler . 32 2.6 Summary . 33 Chapter 3: Correlation between Stroke Volume and Pulse Wave Velocity . 35 3.
Estimating and Measuring Application Latency of Typical Distributed Interactive Simulation (DIS)-Based Simulation Architecture

Abstract : One of the challenges in a distributed virtual environment stems from the requirement to simultaneously execute the simulations in realtime to support human interaction, in conjunction with maintaining a consistent view of the shared simulated environment. Maintaining a consistent set of simulation state data in the presence of network latency is difficult if individual data items are updated frequently. The principle application of DIS-based simulation environments has been in the domain of training where a consistent view or its correctness is often judged in subjective terms such as the simulation looking and feeling correct. New application areas for these systems are emerging in the analysis and test domains. For these domains, quantifying shared state consistency in terms of overall distributed application architecture is desirable. This research effort will investigate and validate methods to calculate and measure the latency effects that consider the structure of the applications themselves. Additional latencies introduced due to the software architecture may significantly affect the consistency of the simulation. An improved understanding is beneficial to the Air Force where real-time distributed simulations used for the purpose of analyzing the systems they simulate and the support of live test events.
Developing awareness of deafblindness in health and social care provision for older people.

Deafblindness is most prevalent in later life, with 87% of those with more severe dual sensory impairment aged 60 or over (Robertson & Emerson, 2010). The difficulties with communication and mobility caused by deafblindness are particularly profound for those in later life, where acquired communication disorders often coexist with difficulties in independent living, access to support and social isolation (Pavey, et al., 2009). Social isolation, which is a negative outcome in its own right, also means that people with dual sensory impairment may not be known to those health and social care services which could provide support for them. When deafblindness is under-recorded, it is likely that there will also be under-provision of appropriate services for people who are deafblind. Therefore, identifying people who are deafblind within the community is crucial to both deliver necessary support and appropriately assess the level of support needed across a community.
A Bayesian framework for the assessment of vision-based weed and fruit detection and classification algorithms

This paper proposes new metrics and a performance-assessment framework for vision-based weed and fruit detection and classification algorithms. In order to compare algorithms, and make a decision on which one to use fora particular application, it is necessary to take into account that the performance obtained in a series of tests is subject to uncertainty. Such characterisation of uncertainty seems not to be captured by the performance metrics currently reported in the literature. Therefore, we pose the problem as a general problem of scientific inference, which arises out of incomplete information, and propose as a metric of performance the(posterior) predictive probabilities that the algorithms will provide a correct outcome for target and background detection. We detail the framework through which these predicted probabilities can be obtained, which is Bayesian in nature. As an illustration example, we apply the framework to the assessment of performance of four algorithms that could potentially be used in the detection of capsicums (peppers).
Optical Imaging Method for Determining Symptoms Severity of Cassava Mosaic Disease

Cassava mosaic disease (CMD) is a major constraint to cassava production in cassava growing regions . Severity of CMD symptoms on cassava leaves is usually assessed visually using an arbitrary scale, which is semi-qualitative, and does not represent the actual surface area of diseased leaf. The objective of this study was to develop a quantitative method of assessing the severity of CMD. A combination of polarimeteric digital colour images, L*a*b* colour model and K -means clustering algorithm were used to determine the areas of CMD symptoms and healthy areas on leaves. The severity of CMD on a leaf is determined by computing the percentage of the CMD symptomatic area to the total leaf area. The analysis provides relatively fast and accurate classification of Cassava mosaic diseased leaves. The proposed method will enable plant scientists to obtain accurate and reliable data, forming the basis for better decision making.
A case report of Weil's disease

We are reporting a case of Weil's disease which is a severe form of leptospirosis manifesting with fever, jaundice, renal failure and hemorrhagic manifestations as it is a very important public health problem and to focus that it is also occurring in our area. The treating physicians may be alerted to consider the leptospirosis in the differential diagnosis of fevers so that early empirical treatment can be given to avoid the multi-organ dysfunction and mortality.
Comparaison des méthodes de dosage de la créatinine sérique

La creatininemie est le parametre le plus utilise dans le cadre de l’exploration renale, soit directement, soit par le biais d’algorithmes : il apparait a ce jour que les techniques de dosage de la creatinine sont encore tres heterogenes. Dans ce contexte, nous avons souhaite comparer differentes techniques du marche et evaluer leur impact sur les algorithmes de calcul de clairance. Il ressort tres clairement de cette etude que des ecarts significatifs peuvent etre observes selon la methodologie et le principe analytique retenu. La standardisation du dosage de la creatinine, mais aussi une reflexion approfondie sur les differents index calcules nous semble necessaire.
Knowledge driven facial modelling

This research aims at supporting users if not involved in computer graphics, facial physiology, or psychology and in need of generating realistic facial animations. Realism is to be understood in terms of the visual appeal of a single rendered image and focused on believable behaviour of the animated face. Our goal is to develop a system enabling semi-automatic facial animation, allowing an average user to generate facial animation in a simple manner. A system with knowledge about the communicative functions of facial expressions that would support an average user to generate facial animation valid from a psychological and physiological point of view.
Using breastfeeding images to promote breastfeeding among young adults

Young adults’ reactions to breastfeeding images were assessed using varied approaches. In Study 1, participants viewed posters from a breastfeeding campaign; many anticipated negative reaction to the campaign. In Study 2, participants viewed novel infant-feeding posters; breastfeeding posters were viewed for less time than bottle-feeding posters, regardless of the task assigned. In Study 3, participants were asked to rate their comfort level viewing infant-feeding images; greater discomfort was reported for breastfeeding images. Taken together, we argue that many young adults expect, and experience, discomfort viewing breastfeeding, but it is important to continue using breastfeeding images in promotion efforts.
Computer-aided assessment in mathematics: Panacea or propaganda?

The proponents of computer-aided assessment are very persuasive in extolling the benefits and virtues of this technology. Undoubtedly, it has many positive features. However, it also has some limitations and drawbacks which need to be considered. Mathematics as a discipline has certain specific problems which are not relevant to the use of computer-aided assessment in many other disciplines. These problems often feature the introduction of the assessment of other learning outcomes into the process. This can create problems in summative assessment but is less of a problem in formative assessment. Evidence is supplied that students find the use of computer-aided assessment in a formative manner to be worthwhile. Finally, a key question about the future development of computer-aided assessment in mathematics is posed.
Automated code extraction from packed android applications

Software packing is a method employed by malicious applications to hide their original intent. Extracting the original intent of an application from its application bundle, whether to perform a security analysis on it, to search for security aws(or bugs) or simply for educational purposes is a key requirement for the security community. With the uidity provided by the Android app store coupled with a complete application-framework based environment for a malicious user to employ as an attack space, it is of great importance to examine Android applications and extract their intent. For basic applications, simple reverse engineering tools can be used to extract a semantic view of the application very close to the original source code of the application. However for applications, which have been deliberately packaged/packed in such a way that their original intent cannot be extracted by simply reverse-engineering them, we need a more intricate procedure to extract enough information to be able to reproduce the original intent of the application. These applications are packaged such that the actual code is hidden/encrypted and only during run-time is the actual code unpacked and executed. To unpack such applications, we present DroidUnpack, a tool based on dynamic program analysis, which is able to extract the original intent of the application, generically. DroidUnpack is designed by exploiting some fundamental features of the Android Runtime which cannot be mutated by a malicious user to unpack the application. We also attempts to alleviate tedious manual analysis required by a user to analyze di erent types of packed applications, by providing a generalized tool which is able to unpack android applications, regardless of the packing technique used. Automated code extraction from packed android applications. by Abhishek Vasisht Bhaskar B.E. , PESIT, Bangalore, India, 2014 Dissertation Submitted in partial ful llment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Computer Engineering. Syracuse University July 2016 Copyright c © Abhishek Vasisht Bhaskar M.S.C.E, July 2016 All Rights Reserved
Multi-Objective Direct Quasi-Sliding Mode Control of a Two Phase Buck Converter

Multiphase converters are the state of the art for high efficiency point-of-load conversion for modern processors and FPGAs with wide operating load conditions. However, there are a variety of control issues that must be addressed, such as dynamically adjusting the number of active phases, robustness to disturbances, and phase current regulation. To achieve the highest efficiency conversion, the phase currents should not necessarily be split evenly between phases. Unfortunately, most of the literature concerning multiphase buck converters implements equal current sharing between phases. Sliding mode controllers are known for their robustness and insensitivity to disturbances and plant parameter variations. Sliding mode control is particularly suited for power electronics due to the inherent switching between two system structures. The control effort of the sliding mode controller depends solely on which side of the surface the system state currently resides. This effort can be implemented in two ways: direct and indirect. This work designs, simulates, and implements a direct sliding mode controller for a twophase buck converter. The technical approach extends a single-phase sliding mode controller to control a two-phase buck converter. Since there are two phases, two switching surfaces are necessary. Thus, suitable surfaces must be developed to address the challenges of phase delay in addition to the overall goal of output voltage regulation. This work is tested in simulation with good results and is implemented with some modifications on a hardware test platform consisting of a TI TMS320F28335 microcontroller and two buck converter phases. The proposed controller can be extended to support regulating to desired phase’s currents and dynamically change the numbers of active phases based on load conditions. This work confirms that the sliding mode controller is a suitable controller design for multiphase buck
SAR simulation for urban scene analysis

In this paper the Coherent Ray Tracing SAR Simulator (CohRaSS) developed at Fraunhofer IOSB is described. While there exists a version of CohRaSS that is custom-tailored to the creation of many images of small scenes e.g. for automatic classification purposes, the focus of this paper is set on the creation of simulated SAR images of large scenes for urban scene analysis. The computational challenges encountered in the processing of large amounts of data are discussed as well as some ways to overcome them that have been included in the version of CohRaSS designed for the simulation of large scenes at very high resolutions. Examples of simulated urban scenes are shown that are representative for the applications this simulator was developed for.
Seven-transmembrane receptors

生体内では,ホルモンをはじめとして,多くの生 理活性因子が 7回膜貫通型受容体を介して細胞内に シグナルを伝える. 血小板では,トロンビン,トロン ボキサン A2,プロスタサイクリン,platelet activating factor (PAF),ADP,カテコラミン,セロトニン 等多くの分子が 7回膜貫通型受容体を介してシグナ ルを伝える. 7回膜貫通型受容体は直接の下流情報 因子として 3量体 GTP結合蛋白質(G蛋白質)を用い るので,G-protein-coupled receptor,GPCRと呼ばれ る. 3量体 G蛋白質の種類によって伝わる細胞内情 報が異なる. 現在用いられている抗血小板薬は,7 回膜貫通型受容体-3量体 G蛋白質経路のどこかを 制御するものが多い(図 1). 本総説では,まず 7回 膜貫通型受容体と 3量体 G蛋白質について説明し, 代表的な血小板上の 7回膜貫通型受容体について概 説する.
Different Methods of Artificial Intelligence Used for Optimization the Turning Process

In this paper, we realize a comparative study between some heuristics methods applied in turning operation in order to find optimal cutting parameters. We consider five different constraints aimed to achieve minimum total cost of machining. We have chosen the Simulated Annealing (SA) – a local search method, and Weighted-Sum Genetic Algorithm (WSGA) – a non-Pareto approach of a multi-objective optimization algorithm, based on a weighted aggregation of objectives. The aggregation may be with fixed weights or with random (variable) weights. The simulations showed that, even if it produces better results than the SA, WSGA with fixed weights, does not lead to optimum results, highlighting in this way that in the formula of the cost function, some cost components may be more important than others. In addition, we extend our previous work by integrating in the software application a new optimization method: WSGA with random weights. Also, we increase the application’s flexibility by reconfiguring the graphical user interface in order to allow tuning the optimization techniques parameters.
Recovery-orientation in mental health services

Policy initiatives are calling for mental health services to change their ways of working to prioritising the promotion of service users’ personal recovery. This requires a major re-negotiation of working practices and the relationship between service users and staff/services and their respective social positions. Preliminary research has shown that change has been problematic. The present study aimed to explore the construction of recovery and the positioning of service users and staff during the adoption of recovery-oriented practices in a community support and recovery team. Transcripts of two rounds of focus groups with service users (n=9) and staff (n=5) held six months apart, service user care plans and Recovery Star notes were analysed using a Foucauldian Discourse Analysis. The study found that recovery was constructed as clinical/medical and personal recovery, at different times and in tension with each other. These constructions positioned service users as dependent, passive and hopeless or empowered and hopeful, and staff as helpless or facilitative. It was also apparent that a discourse of personal recovery was not available to service users. Staff oscillated between the constructions of recovery as medical and personal resulting in different subject positions and opportunities for action. The study concluded that adopting a recovery-orientation in services should lead to service users being positioned as more influential in decisions about their treatment and modes of support from the service, and services less likely to dictate their treatment. However, this can only happen if the recovery-orientation constitutes a widely shared discourse with all its assumptions and associated practices. The problematic aspects of the medical discourse and how it can position people socially and how those positions impact on the potential for personal recovery needs to be highlighted.
Psicologia e genocidio. Nascita di una professione in rwanda

Tra aprile e luglio 1994, il Rwanda pati un genocidio che si distinse per intensita e gravita della violenza prodotta, poiche in questo breve lasso di tempo furono uccise circa un milione di persone. Dato il gran numero di rwandesi che hanno vissuto gravi eventi traumatici, non e certo casuale che, all’indomani del 1994, numerosi studi epidemiologici abbiano evidenziato elevati tassi di problemi di salute mentale e psicosociali nella popolazione del Rwanda. I programmi sociali e i servizi di salute mentale attuati per aiutare i rwandesi traumatizzati dal genocidio evidenziano il ruolo della psicologia clinica come professione. Questo articolo svolge alcune riflessioni sulle potenzialita e le sfide poste dall’attuazione di interventi psicologici a seguito di un genocidio, concentrandosi sulla terapia di gruppo. In particolare, viene analizzata la posizione assunta dagli psicologi clinici tra l’occidentale "medicalizzazione" dei disturbi mentali e i processi di guarigione tradizionali.