Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Fusion of multisensor images using Nonsubsampled Contourlet Transform and Fuzzy Logic

This paper presents a new fusion methodology for combining images obtained from multiple cameras using Non-Subsampled Contourlet Transform (NSCT) and Fuzzy Logic. Recent studies confirm nonsubsampled contourlet transform as an efficient tool for image fusion, as it can effectively capture inherent geometric structures in images. The proposed technique uses Non-Subsampled Contourlet Transform for multiresolution decomposition of the input images and fuzzy logic for computing the optimal fusion weights of the low-pass NSCT coefficients. The NSCT low-pass coefficients are weighted based on the activity level measurements made, in order to generate fused images of superior quality. The high frequency directional coefficients are fused, based on the local energy feature. Both pixel and region based fusion are performed using fuzzy logic and applied to multisensor images of different types. Experimental results obtained reveal that the fuzzy based fusion algorithms proposed achieve better performance when compared to the state-of-the-art fusion schemes such as dual tree complex wavelet transform (DT-CWT), NSCT and hybrid NSCT in terms of the various fusion quality evaluation metrics.
Collaborative Memory: Cognitive Research and Theory

People often form and retrieve memories in the company of others. Yet, nearly 125 years of cognitive research on learning and memory has mainly focused on individuals working in isolation. Although important topics such as eyewitness memory and autobiographical memory have evaluated social influences, a study of group memory has progressed mainly within the provinces of history, anthropology, sociology, and social psychology. In this context, the recent surge in research on the cognitive basis of collaborative memory marks an important conceptual departure. As a first aim, we review these empirical and theoretical advances on the nature and influence of collaborative memory. Effects of collaboration are counterintuitive because individuals remember less when recalling in groups. Collaboration can also lead to forgetting and increase memory errors. Conversely, collaboration can also improve memory under proper conditions. As a second aim, we propose an overarching theoretical framework that specifies the cognitive mechanisms associated with the costs and benefits of collaboration on memory. A study of the reciprocal influences of the group and the individual on memory processes naturally draws upon several disciplines. Our aim is to elucidate the cognitive components of this complex phenomenon and situate this analysis within a broader interdisciplinary perspective.
Two Highly Variable Vpr 84 and Vpr 85 Residues within the HIV-1-Vpr C-Terminal Protein Transduction Domain Control Transductionnal Activity and Define a Clade Specific Polymorphism

The virally encoded HIV-1 viral protein R (VPR) is a multifunctional factor that is required for induced HIV-1 pathogenesis. VPR is also a cell-penetrating protein found in biological fluids from HIV-1 infected individuals. In this regard, we previously published that the C-terminal VPR77-92 sequence from HIV-1 89.6, but not from pNL4.3 strain, is a new pro-apoptotic and protein transduction domain (PTD). Here we report on a sequence analysis of VPR77-92 domain using the Los Alamos HIV-1 sequence database. The analysis showed that the two residues of the domain VPR84 and VPR85 are highly variable and differently biased in HIV-1 clade B and HIV-1 clade C. Furthermore, when Jurkat lymphoblastoid cells or PBMC were incubated with chemically synthesized peptides containing distinct VPR77-92 C-terminal sequences from clades B or C, we found that a clade-dependent polymorphism in VPR84 and VPR85 residues controlled the transducing activity of the C-terminal HIV-1 VPR77-92 domain. Together our data indicate that clade-dependent polymorphism in the VPR84 and VPR85 residues defines the transducing properties mediated by the C-terminal domain of HIV-1 VPR. Identification of this VPR polymorphism suggests new approaches to understand the HIV-1 biology and/or pathogenesis.
Vesicular Phospholipid Gels: A Technology Platform

Vesicular phospholipid gels (VPGs) represent semi-solid phospholipid dispersions. Their morphology is truly vesicular with aqueous compartments both within the core of the vesicles and in-between the vesicles. VPGs are suited to carry both hydrophilic, amphiphilic and lipophilic drugs. Their drug load is stable since there is no concentration gradient between the vesicles' core and the surrounding water phase. VPGs are suited to release drugs in a controlled manner, and thus may serve as depot implants. When blended with excess aqueous medium VPGs are easily converted into small-sized liposome (SUV) dispersions showing high encapsulation efficiencies for all kinds of drugs. VPG-formulations with various cytostatic drugs have been tested successfully in human xenografts. Obviously, the vesicles protect the drugs from premature metabolic inactivation and/or elimination and guide them to solid tumors with enhanced vascular permeability (passive targeting). Furthermore, when mounted on a filter support, VPGs represent a tight diffusion barrier suitable for screening of oral drug permeability, as demonstrated by a set of 21 drug compounds. Permeability values were shown to fit well with human absorption in vivo, indicating that the model is suited for rapid screening of passive transport properties of new chemical entities.
EEA®Stapler and Omental Graft in Esophagogastrectomy: Experience with 30 Intrathoracic Anastomoses for Cancer

Experience with the EEA stapler device used in 30 esophagogastric resections for cancer with intrathoracic anastomosis, is reported. The mortality rate was 13.3%. The anastomotic failure rate was 3.3% (1/30) with only one death; three asymptomatic blind fistulas were found on a routine contrast examination of the anastomosis. It is felt that esophagogastric EEA stapled anastomosis associated with an omental graft is a very safe technique.
Consensus statement. Global burden of tuberculosis: estimated incidence, prevalence, and mortality by country. WHO Global Surveillance and Monitoring Project.

OBJECTIVE To estimate the risk and prevalence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) infection and tuberculosis (TB) incidence, prevalence, and mortality, including disease attributable to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), for 212 countries in 1997. PARTICIPANTS A panel of 86 TB experts and epidemiologists from more than 40 countries was chosen by the World Health Organization (WHO), with final agreement being reached between country experts and WHO staff. EVIDENCE Incidence of TB and mortality in each country was determined by (1) case notification to the WHO, (2) annual risk of infection data from tuberculin surveys, and (3) data on prevalence of smear-positive pulmonary disease from prevalence surveys. Estimates derived from relatively poor data were strongly influenced by panel member opinion. Objective estimates were derived from high-quality data collected recently by approved procedures. CONSENSUS PROCESS Agreement was reached by (1) participants reviewing methods and data and making provisional estimates in closed workshops held at WHO's 6 regional offices, (2) principal authors refining estimates using standard methods and all available data, and (3) country experts reviewing and adjusting these estimates and reaching final agreement with WHO staff. CONCLUSIONS In 1997, new cases of TB totaled an estimated 7.96 million (range, 6.3 million-11.1 million), including 3.52 million (2.8 million-4.9 million) cases (44%) of infectious pulmonary disease (smear-positive), and there were 16.2 million (12.1 million-22.5 million) existing cases of disease. An estimated 1.87 million (1.4 million-2.8 million) people died of TB and the global case fatality rate was 23% but exceeded 50% in some African countries with high HIV rates. Global prevalence of MTB infection was 32% (1.86 billion people). Eighty percent of all incident TB cases were found in 22 countries, with more than half the cases occurring in 5 Southeast Asian countries. Nine of 10 countries with the highest incidence rates per capita were in Africa. Prevalence of MTB/HIV coinfection worldwide was 0.18% and 640000 incident TB cases (8%) had HIV infection. The global burden of tuberculosis remains enormous, mainly because of poor control in Southeast Asia, sub-Saharan Africa, and eastern Europe, and because of high rates of M tuberculosis and HIV coinfection in some African countries.
Product diffusion, product differentiation and the timing of new product introduction the television and VCR market 1964‐85

An econometric model of the demand and supply of color televisions, black and white televisions and video cassette recorders in the United States from 1964 to 1985 is developed and estimated. Supply and demand parameter estimates are obtained using a simultaneous equation system estimated by three-stage least squares. The model employed integrates theories of product diffusion from the marketing literature with those of the economic literature on discrete choice. Particular attention is paid to the relationship between product saturation and demand, as well as to supply decisions pertaining to product differentiation and the timing of new product introduction. The central hypothesis that product differentiation and new product introduction are more likely to occur as demands for established products slow at critical saturation levels is supported by the empirical results and actual market occurrences.
The Effects of Using the Internal Audit Function as a Management Training Ground or as a Consulting Services Provider in Enhancing the Recruitment of Internal Auditors

SYNOPSIS: This paper examines factors that influence job applicants' willingness to apply for positions in internal auditing. We predict and find evidence that job applicants are dissuaded from applying for internal audit positions. In two separate experiments involving participants at seven universities, we discover that this phenomenon is most prevalent for applicants with business experience. Experienced applicants are 20 and 33 percent less willing to apply for a position if it is labeled as “internal audit” versus “accounting” in the two experiments, respectively. In addition, we find that the only experimental condition that increases interest in applying for an internal audit position for experienced applicants occurs when the position advertises the combination of (1) a short stint in internal auditing and then a move from internal audit into a management position, and (2) work primarily related to consulting services rather than assurance services. As a potential explanation for these findings, w.
Co‐opetition: a source of international opportunities in Finnish SMEs

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to study international opportunities gained through co‐opetitive relations in small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) as well as to examine the influence of different levels of co‐opetition on international opportunities.Design/methodology/approach – In order to achieve the purpose, multiple in‐depth case studies are conducted in four SMEs.Findings – The results reveal a paradigm shift in competition in an international context. Co‐opetition has provided international opportunities for the case companies, though to varying degrees and character. Furthermore, international opportunities can be found in strong and weak cooperation‐dominated relations as well as in equal relations between competitors. However, the different levels of co‐opetition influence the characteristics of the international opportunities in terms of continuity and scope.Research limitations/implications – The results highlight the importance of taking co‐opetitive relations in general as well a.
Direction and Intensity of Technical Change: a Micro Model

This paper develops a growth model combining elements of endogenous growth and induced innovation literatures. In a standard induced innovation model firms select at no cost innovations from an innovation possibilities frontier describing the trade-off between increasing capital or labor productivity. The model proposed allows firms to choose not only the direction but also the size of innovation by representing the innovation possibilities through a cost function of capital and labor augmenting innovations. By so doing, it provides a micro-foundation both of the intensity and of the direction of technical change. The policy analysis implies that an increase in subsidies to R&D as opposed to capital accumulation raises per capita steady state growth, employment rate and wage share.
Information and communication technologies adoption in SMEs: literature review

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the driving forces, challenges benefits, barriers and strategies to decrease barriers to information and communication technologies (ICTs) adoption and assimilation by small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) in this era of globalization.Design/methodology/approach – The paper is based on a review of literature, both online and print.Findings – The paper concludes that, ICTs adoption and assimilation in SMEs is critical to enhance their competitiveness. In addition, ICTs usage in SMEs will enhance accessibility into the international markets.Research limitations/implications – The major limitation of this paper is that it only reviews relevant literature and that empirical findings are not obtained to give an insight and holistic view of ICTs adoption and assimilation by SMEs.Practical implications – Effective use of ICTs in SMEs has great impact on its competitiveness and sustainability. In addition, owners/owner managers, policy makers and other stakeh.
Segmentation of myocardial perfusion MR sequences with multi-band active appearance models driven by spatial and temporal features

This work investigates knowledge driven segmentation of cardiac MR perfusion sequences. We build upon previous work on multi-band AAMs to integrate into the segmentation both spatial priors about myocardial shape as well as temporal priors about characteristic perfusion patterns. Different temporal and spatial features are developed without a strict need for temporal correspondence across the image sequences. We also investigate which combination of spatial and temporal features yields the best segmentation performance. Our evaluation criteria were boundary errors wrt manual segmentations, area overlap, and convergence envelope. From a quantitative evaluation on 19 perfusion studies, we conclude that a combination of the maximum intensity projection feature and gradient orientation map yields the best segmentation performance, with an average point-to-curve error of 0.9-1 pixel wrt manual contours. We also conclude that addition of different temporal features does not necessarily increase performance.
Lot Sizes, Lead Times and In-Process Inventories

In many manufacturing problems, the total lead time taken to manufacture a product is an important consideration. Long lead times impose costs due to higher work-in-process inventory, increased uncertainty about requirements, larger safety stocks and poorer performance to due dates. Traditional lot sizing models ignore lead time related costs, although there are systematic relationships between lot sizes and lead times. This paper examines these relationships and their implications for lot sizing and work-in-process inventories, for batch manufacturing shops with queues.
Genotyping of Soybean Cultivars With Medium-Density Array Reveals the Population Structure and QTNs Underlying Maturity and Seed Traits

Soybean was domesticated about 5,000 to 6,000 years ago in China. Although genotyping technologies such as genotyping by sequencing (GBS) and high-density array are available, it is convenient and economical to genotype cultivars or populations using medium-density SNP array in genetic study as well as in molecular breeding. In this study, 235 cultivars, collected from China, Japan, USA, Canada and some other countries, were genotyped using SoySNP8k iSelect BeadChip with 7,189 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). In total, 4,471 polymorphic SNP markers were used to analyze population structure and perform genome-wide association study (GWAS). The most likely K value was 7, indicating this population can be divided into 7 subpopulations, which is well in accordance with the geographic origins of cultivars or accession studied. The LD decay rate was estimated at 184 kb, where r2 dropped to half of its maximum value (0.205). GWAS using FarmCPU detected a stable quantitative trait nucleotide (QTN) for hilum color and seed color, which is consistent with the known loci or genes. Although no universal QTNs for flowering time and maturity were identified across all environments, a total of 30 consistent QTNs were detected for flowering time (R1) or maturity (R7 and R8) on 16 chromosomes, most of them were corresponding to known E1 to E4 genes or QTL region reported in SoyBase (soybase.org). Of 16 consistent QTNs for protein and oil contents, 11 QTNs were detected having antagonistic effects on protein and oil content, while 4 QTNs soly for oil content, and one QTN soly for protein content. The information gained in this study demonstrated that the usefulness of the medium-density SNP array in genotyping for genetic study and molecular breeding.
Design, Prototyping, and Testing of a Dual-Rotor Motor for Electric Vehicle Application

Permanent magnet motors and induction motors are used in many electric vehicles (EVs) and synchronous reluctance motors have been used in some experimental EVs. However, none of them meet all the objectives of high efficiency, high power density, and low cost. In this paper, a dual-rotor motor (DRM) is proposed with potential application in EVs. The proposed motor is a proof of concept and is unique because it uses a synchronous and an asynchronous rotor. A conceptual analysis and mechanical configuration of this motor are presented in this paper, and the experimental demonstration of its working principle is also presented. The preliminary results, presented in this paper, show that a DRM with two different rotor types (synchronous and asynchronous) is feasible, and this opens a new direction in R&D of such motors.
The principal-agent approach and the study of the European Union: promise unfulfilled?

The principal-agent model holds great promise for understanding the institutional complexities of the EU and for moving beyond the sterile debate between intergovernmentalism and neofunctionalism. As yet, however, scholars have failed to exploit the insights that this construct affords. After a brief discussion of the principal-agent model, this article offers a critical examination of the way that the principal-agent approach has been deployed by liberal intergovernmentalism, institutional intergovernmentalism, historical institutionalist supranationalism, and rational-choice supranationalism. It argues that, in all four cases, the a priori commitments of the theorists, in support either of the view that the member states effectively control their supranational agents and dominate EU governance or of the belief in an inevitable trend towards greater integration, led by supranational institutions, prevent them from making the most effective use of the model. It proposes alternative applications that may prove more fruitful.
GerIE - An Open Information Extraction System for the German Language

Open Information Extraction (OIE) allows to extract relations from a text without the need of domain-specific training data. To date, most of the research on OIE has been focused to the English language and little or no research has been conducted on other languages, including German. To tackle this problem, we developed GerIE, an OIE system for the German language. We surveyed the literature on OIE in order to identify concepts that may apply to the German language. Our system is based on the output of a German dependency parser and a number of handcrafted rules to extract the propositions. To evaluate the system, we created two dedicated datasets: one derived from news articles and the other devised from texts from an encyclopedia. Our system achieves F-measures of up to 0.89 for correctly-preprocessed sentences.
Indoor localization for IoT applications using fingerprinting

Fingerprinting method is one of the preferred method used for indoor localization using Wi-Fi signals because of its low complexity and its cost effectiveness. This paper proposes an indoor localization algorithm using fingerprinting method that is suitable for an indoor IoT application. The proposed algorithm combines the location estimates from two different approaches, deterministic and probabilistic, to estimate the target location. The proposed algorithm was tested for different conditions: stationary and moving IoT targets, line-of-sight and non-line-of-sight indoor environments. The results showed the proposed combined algorithm performed better in terms of localization accuracy, precision and robustness than deterministic and probabilistic methods individually and similar past research.
Globalisation in the food industries

This paper reviews the various dimensions of globalization and assesses their importance and implications for the food industries. Consumer markets are developing cross-border segments, but strong local assumption patterns remain; trade in processed foods is growing strongly, but is limited because foods are bulky and often perishable; foreign production by multinational food enterprises is increasing, but much of their activity remains 'multi-domestic. ' Nevertheless, the trends are all towards globalization and this has important implications for productivity and growth, market integration small and medium-sized enterprises, agriculture and industrial policy. Copyright 1997 by Oxford University Press.
Simple Fabrication and Characterization of an Aluminum Nanoparticle Monolayer with Well-Defined Plasmonic Resonances in the Far Ultraviolet

Currently, aluminum plasmonics face technical challenges for the manufacture of reproducible structures by simple and low-cost techniques. In this work, we used a direct current (DC) sputtering system to grow a set of quasi-spherical aluminum nanoparticles with diameters below 10 nm. Our particles are uniformly distributed over the surface of quartz and nitrocellulose substrates. We review in detail the methodology for the determination of adequate deposition parameters to allow great reproducibility in different production runs. Likewise, we carry out an exhaustive nanostructural characterization by means of scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The latter allowed us to identify that our depositions are nanoparticle monolayers with thicknesses equal to the average particle diameter. Finally, by means of absorbance spectra we identify the presence of a very well-defined plasmonic resonance at 186 nm that is associated with the dipolar mode in particles smaller than 10 nm. Due to the sharpness of their plasmonic resonances as well as their great manufacturing simplicity and high reproducibility, our aluminum nanoparticles could be used as optical sensors.
Political instability and capital flight: An application of event study methodology

The relationship between capital flight and political instability is investigated by using the event study methodology, which is widely used in the finance literature. The advantage of using this method is that by isolating specific instances of political instability (defined as events), one can examine the relationship more closely. An index of political instability is calculated using data on intranation political developments from the Conflict and Peace Data Bank (COPDAB). For our sample, we get mixed results, probably because the “event” could not be defined very precisely due to the volatile nature of the political index.