Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A two-stage RRT path planner for automated parking

Path planning for automated parking remains challenged by the demand to balance general parking scenarios and computational efficiency. This paper proposes a two-stage rapid-exploring random tree (RRT) algorithm to improve the computational efficiency. At first the proposed algorithm performs space exploration and establishes prior knowledge, represented as waypoints, using cheap computation. Secondly a waypoint-guided RRT algorithm, with a sampling scheme biased by the waypoints, constructs a kinematic tree connecting the initial and goal configurations. Numerical study demonstrates that the two-stage algorithm achieves at least 2X faster than the baseline one-stage algorithm.
Devolving responsibilities for human resources to line management: an empirical study about convergence in Europe

The lively debate about converging or diverging management practices is not yet decided. Human resource management (HRH is no exception. Using the widely discussed issue of HR specialists handing over HR tasks to line management as an example, the article analyses whether European companies in the last decade have adopted similar HR practices and whether successful European companies are similar to each other in this respect. The results show that there is no trend towards convergence in Europe. Furthermore, various configurations of HR practices characterise successful organisations. Both results have important consequences for HR academics and practitioners, especially in the Central and Eastern European countries. Die umfangreiche Debatte uber Konvergenz bzw. Divergent im Management allgemein bzw. im HRM im Besonderen ist nicht entschieden. Am Beispiel der Verlagerung von Personalaufgaben von zentralen Fachabteilungen auf das Linienmanagement geht der Artikel der Frage nach, inwieweit Unternehmen in Europa im letzten Jahrzehnt ahnliche Personalpraktiken eingesetzt haben and wie sehr sick erfolgreiche Unternehmen in dieser Hinsicht ahneln. Die Resultate zeigen keine konvergierenden Entwicklungen in Europa. Welters zeigt sick, dass erfolgreiche Unternehmen durch sehr unterschiedliche Konfigurationen von Personalpraktiken gekennzeichnet sind Belle Resultate sind fur die Personalforschung and -praxis vor allem auch in den mittel- and osteuropaischen Landern von Bedeutung.
A Comparative Study of the Push and Pull Production Systems

Little work has so far been done to investigate the relative merits of push and pull production systems when subjected to a common set of conditions. The present study examines the behaviour of the two systems under various load (demand) conditions using computer simulation. The JIT pull system is found to provide better results throughput. Under heavier loading conditions, it is also able to maintain a lower in‐process inventory. Another significant finding is the influence of the scheduling rule. The first‐come‐first‐served (FCFS) rule results in poor process utilisation because of its inferior queue clearing capability. A shortest process time (SPT)‐based discipline, on the other hand, will generate greater job mobility within the system and provide substantial overall improvement in the system performance.
Does Regulation Matter?: Evaluating the Effects of State Air Pollution Control Programs

Air pollution emissions have declined significantly since the passage of the Clean Air Act (CAA) of 1970. Most policy observers have gone on to infer that the CAA has been the cause of these emissions reductions, though this claim has not received close empirical examination. In short, while air pollution emissions have been reduced, we do not know if these reductions are the result of pollution control regulation. In an effort to expand the study of policy outcomes, this article evaluates the effects various regulatory efforts have had on state air quality. The contention set forth here is that the strength of a state's air quality programs, along with other variables representing a political commitment to pollution control, have significant effects upon air pollutant emission levels. Using multiple regression and path analysis, these effects of regulation are apparent even when controlling for changes in economic activity, economic infrastructure, and fuel consumption, enabling us to conclude that in air pollution control, regulation does matter.
Metabolism of alkenebenzene derivatives in the rat. II. Eugenol and isoeugenol methyl ethers.

1. The metabolites of 3,4-dimethoxyallylbenzene (eugenol methyl ether) and 3,4-dimethoxypropenylbenzene (isoeugenol methyl ether) in the rat were identified and quantitatively determined by g.l. c. and g.l. c. -mass spectrometry. 2. The major metabolic reactions of 3,4-dimethoxyallylbenzene were oxidation of the allylic side chain to 2-hydroxy-3-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-propionic acid, 3,4-dimethoxybenzoic acid and 3,4-dimethoxycinnamic acid, the two latter being largely excreted as their glycine conjugates. The formation of the hydroxy acid presumably involved epoxidation of the double bond and subsequent hydration to the diol whereas the formation of 3,4-dimethoxycinnamic acid and 3,4-dimethoxybenzoic acid involved migration of the double bond and the formation of cinnamoyl intermediates. Other reactions were O-demethylation to 4-hydroxy-3-methoxyallylbenzene (eugenol) and 3-hydroxy-4-methoxyallylbenzene in equal amounts, oxidation to 1-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-2-propen-1-ol, hydroxylation of the benzene ring to a hydroxy-3,4-dimethoxyallylbenzene and oxidation to 3,4-dimethoxyphenylacetic acid. The formation of 1-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)propane was found to be carried out by the rat intestinal micro-organisms. A total of at least 63% but as much as 95% dose was accounted for. 3. The major metabolic pathway of 3,4-dimethoxypropenylbenzene was via the cinnamoyl derivatives, leading to the formation of 4-hydroxy-3-methoxycinnamic acid (ferulic acid), 3,4-dimethoxycinnamic acid and 3,4-dimethoxybenzoic acid, the two latter being excreted largely as their glycine conjugates. Other reactions were O-demethylation to 4-hydroxy-3-methoxypropenylbenzene (isoeugenol) and 3-hydroxy-4-methoxypropenylbenzene in equal amounts, and oxidation to 3,4-dimethoxyphenylacetic acid and 4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenylacetone. Epoxidation of the side chain appeared to be a minor metabolic reaction with the propenyl derivative. 4. The biliary metabolites of 3,4-dimethoxyallylbenzene and 3,4-dimethoxypropenylbenzene were identified and most of the urinary metabolites were also found in the bile.
Collegiate Recreation Participation and Retention

Colleges and universities have been focusing on the rising costs to attend college and their impact on current and future students. Recruitment and retention of students is critical in justifying programmatic and academic offerings. In addition, recruitment and retention have an impact on the institution's bottom line. This article attempts to prove a correlation between a collegiate recreation program and retention. Specifically, first year retention rates were examined on students who participate in club sports, use the student recreation center, and are employed by the campus recreation department. The results of this study can be useful to the collegiate recreation practitioner to answer the question of “does your program have an impact on retention? ” It is the hope that this study is duplicated to further emphasize the relationship of collegiate recreation programs and their positive relationship on retention.
The Impact of Rurality on 30-Day Preventable Readmission, Illness Severity, and Risk of Mortality for Heart Failure Medicare Home Health Beneficiaries.

PURPOSE To examine the impact of rurality on 30-day preventable readmission, and the illness severity and risk of mortality for 30-day preventable readmissions. METHODS We analyzed heart failure Medicare beneficiaries who received home health services for postacute care after hospital discharge in 2009. The study was a cross-sectional design with the unit of analysis as the home health episode for postacute care. Data sources included the following: Medicare Beneficiary Summary File, Medicare Provider Analysis Review, Outcome Assessment Information Set, Home Health Agency Research Identifiable File, and Area Health Resources File. The dependent variables were 30-day preventable readmission, and the extreme/major level of illness severity and of risk of mortality for a 30-day preventable readmission. The key independent variable was rurality defined as remote rural, adjacent rural, and micropolitan areas, with urban areas in the reference group. FINDINGS Home health beneficiaries in remote rural areas had 27% lower 30-day preventable readmission than those in urban areas. Home health beneficiaries in adjacent rural areas were 33% less likely to have high illness severity at readmission due to a preventable condition than those in urban areas. CONCLUSIONS Geographical location affects preventable readmission and illness severity of preventable readmission. Patients' geographic location along with patients' risk factors should be taken into consideration in the risk adjustment model for the financial incentive program that penalizes home health agencies with high preventable readmissions.
Axon and Schwann Cell Partnership During Nerve Regrowth

Regeneration of peripheral nerve involves an essential contribution by Schwann cells (SCs) in collaboration with regrowing axons. We examined such collaboration between new axons and Schwann cells destined to reform peripheral nerve trucks in a regeneration chamber bridging transected rat sciatic nerves. There was a highly intimate “dance” between axons that followed outgrowing and proliferating SCs. Axons without SCs only grew short distances and almost all axon processes had associated SC processes. When regeneration chambers were infused through an external access port with local mitomycin, a mitosis inhibitor, SC proliferation, migration and subsequent axon regrowth were dramatically reduced. Adding laminin to mitomycin did not reverse this regenerative lag and indicated that SCs provide more than laminin synthesis alone. Laminin infused alone supplemented endogenous laminin and facilitated first SC then axon regrowth. “Wrong way” misdirected axons were associated with misdirected SC processes and were more numerous in bridges exposed to mitomycin, but were fewer in laminin supplemented bridges. Later, by 21 days, there was myelinated axon repopulation of regenerative bridges but those exposed to mitomycin alone at early time points had substantial impairments in axon investment. Reforming peripheral nerve trucks involves a very close and intimate relationship between axons and SCs that must proliferate and migrate, facilitated by laminin.
LARISSA: Layered architecture model for interconnection of systems in UAS

Architectural models have been used to enable the development of more appropriate and structured systems, from the simplest to the most complex. The use of models in embedded systems is important especially when it comes to critical embedded systems. In such systems, as unmanned aerial vehicles, these models are designed to allow compliance standards, reduction in production time, reduce and make easy the development and maintenance process. Critical embedded systems have specific requirements, such as high reliability and real-time response, security and performance. The definition of an architectural model that allows these aspects is taken into account, and that provide compliance with the standards and enables accurate and rapid development. This is innovative and allows the scientific community and the industry to have benefits. In this sense, the LARISSA aims at developing an architectural model for systems interconnection in unmanned aircraft systems (UASs), allowing features reuse and certification of these aircrafts.
Discount Pricing in Austria: Insights into Retail Business Practices and HICP Coverage

Discount pricing – the strategy of reducing regular prices through quantity, seasonal, cash or promotional discounts, coupons, customer loyalty programs and the like – plays an important role in retail pricing and is widespread business practice in virtually all retail industries in Austria. This is the main result of our study, for which we surveyed major Austrian retailers and analyzed empirical data compiled by A.C. Nielsen. Moreover, we found that shoppers who participate in customer loyalty programs benefit from discounts more frequently and pay less on average than shoppers who do not. In Austria, three out of four consumers held at least one loyalty card in 2008. All in all, some 30 million loyalty cards were circulating in Austria at the time, with five cards per cardholder being the average. 90% of respondents indicated the prospect of instant rebates as the main incentive for holding loyalty cards. The retailers participating in the OeNB survey generate roughly one-third of their sales revenue under customer loyalty programs. On the consumer side, the average level of retail discounting (as established in the OeNB survey) adds up to a purchasing power effect of approximately EUR 300 million a year. In addition, the paper assesses the HICP coverage of discounts with a view to drawing lessons for policymaking. The current measurement practices are found to reflect some but not all forms of discounting. Looking ahead, it would be advisable to change measurement practices to catch the effect of customer loyalty programs, as they are common in many industries and tend to generate higher discounts than other discounting practices. The most suitable method would be to cover retailers who run loyalty programs throughout Austria and offer the same terms to all cardholders. Retail scanners could provide useful price data for inflation measurement.
Optimal Governing Instrument, Operation Level, and Enforcement in Natural Resource Regulation: The Case of the Fishery

Most regulation studies have used industry output or inputs as the control variable(s), but these are only indirectly controlled by government action through its choice of governing instrument, enforcement procedure, and penalty structure and the operational level of each. A model is developed which demonstrates how profit-maximizing firms will react to these control variables taking into account the benefits (extra production) and costs (possible penalties) of noncompliance and the ability to avoid detection of noncompliance. The optimal operation level for two sets of control variables is derived and discussed.
Risk Reduction and Portfolio Size: An Analytical Solution

The relationship between the risk of a portfolio and the number of securities in that portfolio has been of interest to economists for a number of years. In fact, discussion of this problem dates back to the very inception of modern portfolio analysis. ' It is not surprising that this problem has received a great deal of attention. It has major implications for the structure and very existence of financial intermediaries, as well as for the behavior of all investors. When an investor decides on the size of the portfolio he will hold, he is making a trade-off between the decreased risk due to more effective diversification versus the increased transaction costs (decreased return) from adding more securities to his portfolio. If large portfolios are necessary to get most of the benefits from diversification, then financial intermediaries should exist just as a method for providing investors with the benefits of diversification. However, if one can obtain most of the benefits of diversification by holding quite small portfolios, then the individual can obtain effective diversification directly, and financial institutions must justify their existence by their ability to select security issues that will exhibit superior performance.2 Finally, an analytical expression for the relationship between risk and the number and type of securities is necessary to see the effects on risk of introducing new securities into the population of securities under study. For example, the opportunities and risk changes that occur when an American investor is allowed to diversify internationally can be examined via the expressions we will develop in this paper. Before proceeding with our analysis it is worth while to briefly review some of the past studies which have examined the relationship between portfolio size and risk. One of the earliest and perhaps the most often quoted study of risk and portfolio size was performed by Evans and Archer, who developed the methodology that was to be used by almost all following studies. ' Evans and
HIGH INBREEDING DEPRESSION, SELECTIVE INTERFERENCE AMONG LOCI, AND THE THRESHOLD SELFING RATE FOR PURGING RECESSIVE LETHAL MUTATIONS

The evolutionary dynamics of recessive or slightly dominant lethal mutations in partially self‐fertilizing plants are analyzed using two models. In the identity‐equilibrium model, lethals occur at a finite number of unlinked loci among which genotype frequencies are independent in mature plants. In the Kondrashov model, lethals occur at an infinite number of unlinked loci with identity disequilibrium produced by partial selfing. If the genomic mutation rate to (nearly) recessive lethal alleles is sufficiently high, such that the mean number of lethals (or lethal equivalents) per mature plant maintained at equilibrium under complete outcrossing exceeds 10, selective interference among loci creates a sharp discontinuity in the mean number of lethals maintained as a function of the selfing rate. Virtually no purging of the lethals occurs unless the selfing rate closely approaches or exceeds a threshold selfing rate, at which there is a precipitous drop in the mean number of lethals maintained. Identity disequilibrium lowers the threshold selfing rate by increasing the ratio of variance to mean number of lethals per plant, increasing the opportunity for selection. This theory helps to explain observations on plant species that display very high inbreeding depression despite intermediate selfing rates.
Enhancing frequency regulation coverage for electric vehicles in a smart grid environment

Millions of Electric vehicles (EVs) are expected to be deployed across North America in the coming few years. EVs can serve dual purpose if they are properly managed and controlled, they can serve as a clean transportation medium and they can also provide power storage and ancillary services to the smart grid when they are plugged-in. One of the main important ancillary services that EVs are capable of providing to smart grids is frequency regulation, which is the mean of controlling frequency oscillations. EVs can participate in this operation by charging their batteries from the grid during frequency regulation-down and by discharging their batteries from the grid during frequency regulation-up. In this paper, we propose a mechanism to maximize the number of EVs participating in the frequency regulation market. Maximizing the number of EVs participating in the regulation process depends very much on the number of EVs that can hear the call for frequency regulation at that moment of time. Our mechanism increases the throughput and decreases the delay of EVs that are acting as relay nodes to rebroadcast the frequency regulation signal in a smart grid environment.
Global Taxation of Cross Border E-Commerce Income

Amazon sells tangibles, intangibles and services worldwide that totaled $34 Billion USD in 2010. At eBay.com more than 97 million active users globally meet to sell and buy online in total amount of $62 Billion USD in 2010. Global clicks at Google.com contributed substantially to its $10.5 Billion USD revenues in Q4 2011. In the year 2010 Americans spent around $173 billion USD shopping online. Global e-commerce turnover is expected to grow up to $963 Billion USD in 2013. These figures illustrate the importance of e-commerce in the global economy today and tomorrow. The taxation of e-commerce as well is very much important and difficult issue. This article examines the taxation challenges of e-commerce and discusses the current responses at the academic level, national level and international level. This discussion concludes that the right answer to the challenges was not given so far and the need for a different response is essential in the age of e-commerce.The article argues for the imposition of a global e-commerce tax on cross border e-commerce income and designs the details of the tax. Institutionally, this tax shall be levied and administered by a supra-national institution called the Global Tax Fund and the article sets a framework of the design of this new institution to be established by the countries in new international tax treaty. The proposal adds that the global e-commerce tax revenues shall be spent on funding global public goods, such as climate stability, and global communication infrastructures and so on. A substantial normative work is done in the article to convince that the proposed tax is a good tax from tax policy point of view. The article makes the arguments that the global e-commerce tax to fund global public goods is legitimate, certain, efficient, fair and contributes to the finance of a genuine global need, ultimately concluding that the global e-commerce tax would be a desirable and plausible resolution of linked problems on both the income and the expenditure side of government functions. Furthermore, the article responds to expected objections to the article's novel idea. It argues that supra-national taxation does not infringe tax theory. To the contrary, it goes hand by hand with the theory in the global era. As to state sovereignty objections, the article argues that sovereignty has changed and supranational regimes serve the new sovereignty.This innovative article concludes by calling for thinking in open minds.
Fine‐needle aspiration cytology in lymphadenopathy of HIV‐positive patients

Fine‐needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) of 32 HIV‐positive cases presenting with lymphadenopathy was performed to evaluate its role in this group of patients. For each case air‐dried smears were stained with Leishman, hematoxylin and eosin, and Zeihl‐Neelsen stains for acid fast bacilli (AFB). The results were tuberculous (TB) lymphadenopathy (15), reactive lymphadenopathy (10), acute lymphadenitis/abscess (5), and suspected malignancy (2). In seven cases of TB lymphadenitis findings were suggestive of TB since no AFB was demonstrable on the cytology smears. In TB lymphadenitis, two additional patterns besides necrotising granulomatous (4) and granulomatous (2) were observed. These were necrotising (6) and necrotising suppurative (3) patterns. FNAC is a simple, inexpensive, rapid investigative procedure which can reduce surgical excisions and provide definite guidelines about further management. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2003;29:146–148. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Creating a Leadership Development Program: Nine Essential Tasks

Empirical research supports common sense—leadership matters to an organization's effectiveness. Leadership skills can be learned; although learning on the job is too haphazard a way to ensure an organization's viability. A leadership development program (LDP) requires nine overlapping tasks, which should be managed by HR professionals. Each task answers a basic question: 1. What kind of candidates is the organization looking for? 2. What does it take to be a good leader in the organization? 3. How does one become a program participant? 4. How does the participant stack up as a leader right now? 5. What specific actions should the participant take to become a better leader? 6. In what ways is the LDP reinforced by other HR systems? 7. How can the participant's work group be part of the developmental process? 8. Is there a leadership succession plan? 9. Is the LDP giving a satisfactory return on investment?