Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A WDR method with low noise in digital circuit

This paper shows a method of WDR (wide dynamic range) in camera. When we make a digital WDR, commonly we meet two problems. The first one is an increase of noise. And the other is a lot of control factors. In this paper we will show a WDR with low noise and small number of control factors. The circuit is very simple and needs no memory. So the chip size is nearly unchanged after implementation. When all area of image is dark, the weighting factors in this circuit are used like gain by changing control factors. But the noise is not increased like gain. This algorithm has no frame rate down even in preview mode.
Obtaining Natural Sit-to-Stand Motion with a Biomimetic Controller for Powered Knee Prostheses

Standing up from a seated position is a common activity in people's daily life. However, for transfemoral (i.e., above-knee) amputees fitted with traditional passive prostheses, the sit-to-stand (STS) transition is highly challenging, due to the inability of the prosthetic joints in generating torque and power output. In this paper, the authors present a new STS control approach for powered lower limb prostheses, which is able to regulate the power delivery of the prosthetic knee joint to obtain natural STS motion similar to that displayed by healthy subjects. Mimicking the dynamic behavior of the knee in the STS, a unified control structure provides the desired control actions by combining an impedance function with a time-based ramp-up function. The former provides the gradual energy release behavior desired in the rising phase, while the latter provides the gradual energy injection behavior desired in the loading phase. This simple and intuitive control structure automates the transition between the two phases, eliminating the need for explicit phase transition and facilitating the implementation in powered prostheses. Human testing results demonstrated that this new control approach is able to generate a natural standing-up motion, which is well coordinated with the user's healthy-side motion in the STS process.
Riding The Waves Of Quality Improvement

Increasingly, sustainability and spread have become part and parcel of organizational strategy in health care. This applies in particular to organizations in the long-term care sector, which faces an increasing care demand, ageing population and labor shortage. Unfortunately, sustainability and spread of quality improvement have been understudied. Given the dominance of project-based evaluation research, deeper insight in the dynamics and interplay between care organizations, improvement projects and care practices is lacking. Such insight is desired because sustainability and spread of quality improvement represent a conditio sine qua non for sustainable change at the system level. This dissertation offers a theoretical framework for sustainability and spread of changed care practices based on organization theory: routine theory and Scandinavian institutional theory. Based on this framework measurement instruments were developed and new research designs were experimented with, including, analysis of care indicatordata, a small n case study, Latent Class Analysis, and longitudinal designs. The setting of research concerns the Dutch ‘Care for Better’ quality improvement collaborative (QIC) program for long-term care (2005 - 2012). The program was based on Breakthrough Improvement Methodology. In the ‘Care for Better’ program, improvement teams worked on implementing best practices during one year. This dissertation offers an in-depth, integrated evaluation of the ‘Care for Better’ program in view of the context of the developments in the long-term care sector. Regarding the effectiveness of the program, it is concluded that the program yielded only partially sustainable change, mainly because the internal spread within the care organizations lagged behind. Based on the findings, it is concluded that sustainability and spread of changed care practices are not guaranteed by mere project effectiveness. These two concepts should not be conflated, but require related yet specific processes in care organizations. Sustainability and spread should be part and parcel of the improvement process from the start, rather than configured as a final stage. What is more, quality improvement set demands on the organizational capacity for improvement, and thus requires substantial adaptation from an organization to yield sustainable change. Last, following routine theory, the role of materials in care practices as well as in improvement practices appears vital for sustainability and spread; and therefore deserves more consideration in health policy as well as in the evaluation of quality improvement.
Modeling Flowchart Structure Recognition as a Max-Sum Problem

This work deals with the on-line recognition of hand-drawn graphical sketches with structure. We present a novel approach, in which the search for a suitable interpretation of the input is formulated as a combinatorial optimization task - the max-sum problem. The recognition pipeline consists of two main stages. First, groups of strokes possibly representing symbols of a sketch (symbol candidates) are segmented and relations between them are detected. Second, a combination of symbol candidates best fitting the input is chosen by solving the optimization problem. We focused on flowchart recognition. Training and testing of our method was done on a freely available benchmark database. We correctly segmented and recognized 82.7% of the symbols having 31.5% of the diagrams recognized without any error. It indicates that our approach has promising potential and can compete with the state-of-the-art methods.
Dimer-promoted fluorescence quenching of coralyne by binding to anionic polysaccharides

The effects of anionic chondroitin or dextran sulfates on the absorption and fluorescence properties of coralyne, a cationic benzo[c]phenanthridine type alkaloid, were studied in aqueous solution. The remarkably strong binding to both polysaccharides promotes the coralyne dimer formation, which was evidenced by the changes in the absorption and fluorescence spectra and the fluorescence decay. The extent of dimerization, induced by chondroitin, shows a significant pH dependence because the competitive protonation of the carboxylate moieties of the polymer chain decreases the number of binding sites. A larger molecular weight of dextran sulfate stabilizes the coralyne dimer more efficiently.
IN VITRO SYNERGY OF FUSIDIC ACID AND AMIKACIN AGAINST METHICILLIN RESISTANT STAPHLOCOCUS AUREUS

Objective: To test in vitro combination of fusidic acid and amikacin against infections caused by methicillin resistant Staphlococus aureus (MRSA). Methodology: In vitro study conducted in Department of Pharmacology and Microbiology, Dr. Ziauddin Medical University. The duration of study was March 2004- February 2005. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was done by Kirby Bauer’s disc diffusion method and by minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) by broth macrodilution and checkerboard technique for synergy. FIC (fractional inhibitory concentrations) were calculated. Results: MIC of fusidic acid was 0.03-1µg/ml and amikacin 0.5-16µg/ml respectively. The combination of these demonstrated synergy. Evidence of synergy correlated directly with the MICs of fusidic acid and amikacin. Conclusion: Combination therapy with fusidic acid and amikacin may be a reasonable alternative in the treatment of infections caused by MRSA isolates and encourages clinical evaluation.
Neonatal infections: group B streptococcus.

INTRODUCTION One in four women carry group B streptococci vaginally, which can infect the amniotic fluid even if the membranes are intact, or can infect the baby during delivery, causing sepsis, pneumonia, or meningitis. Very-low-birthweight infants are at much higher risk of infection or mortality, with up to 3% infected, and mortality rates of up to 30% even with immediate antibiotic treatment. Late-onset group B streptococcal infection begins after 7 to 9 days, and usually causes fever or meningitis, but is less often fatal compared with early infection. METHODS AND OUTCOMES We conducted a systematic review and aimed to answer the following clinical question: What are the effects of prophylactic treatment of asymptomatic neonates less than 7 days old with known risk factors for group B streptococcal infection? We searched: Medline, Embase, The Cochrane Library and other important databases up to April 2010 (Clinical Evidence reviews are updated periodically, please check our website for the most up-to-date version of this review). We included harms alerts from relevant organisations such as the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). RESULTS We found 12 systematic reviews, RCTs, or observational studies that met our inclusion criteria. We performed a GRADE evaluation of the quality of evidence for interventions. CONCLUSIONS In this systematic review we present information relating to the effectiveness and safety of the following interventions: different antibiotics, monitoring and selective treatment, and routine antibiotic prophylaxis.
Scalp In-Transit Metastatic Melanoma Treated with Interleukin-2 and Pulsed Dye Laser

No particular regimen is considered standard therapy for widespread metastatic melanoma, although surgery is the primary choice for regional nodal metastases. Systemic interleukin-2 (IL-2) is an effective immunotherapy for melanoma, but standard doses are associated with severe toxicity. We report a patient who was treated with intralesional low-dose IL-2 and V-beam pulsed dye laser for the treatment of scalp melanoma metastases. This treatment resulted in rapid regression of metastatic tumors with limited adverse effects.
The influences of destination experiences on behavioural intentions : an investigation of MICE travellers in Taiwan

Meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions (MICE) has emerged as a critical component of Taiwan's tourism industry. However, capitalising on this growth has presented destination tourism marketers with the challenge of understanding the relationship between business and leisure related travel motivations. Previous research has examined the role played by motivations and satisfaction in predicting travel behaviour. However, the literature has not investigated how satisfactory MICE experiences influence subsequent travel intentions, particularly in the case of leisurerelated activities. To understand the connection between motivations, satisfaction and future leisure travel intentions, the present research proposes a conceptual framework which incorporates: means-end theory, functional theory, expectation-disconfirmation model and Siegel and Ziff-Levine's (1990) model.
Multichannel strategy and sustainable competitive advantage: a dynamic capability approach

The diffusion of Information Technology and Internet are leading to rapid change in the competitive environment increasing the range of channels being offered to the customer in the search for competitive advantage. We integrated perspectives from the literature on competitive advantage, dynamic capabilities and IT capabilities to propose the conceptualization of “multichannel capability” as “the ability of an organization to effectively integrate and manage multiple distribution channels”. We also offer a theoretical model explaining the antecedents and consequences of ability to sense, seize and reconfigure capabilities in a multichannel environment and their implications for the development of a competitive advantage. The main result is the advancement of theory in dynamic capabilities in the context of multichannel strategies.
Vacation's over? Looking back on the Pierre et Vacances/Maeva Transaction *

This paper provides a retrospective study of the 2001 merger between Pierre et Vacances and Maeva, the two largest French holiday companies. First, simulations with data from the merger file indicate that the competition authority made the right decision to condition its approval to a structural merger remedy. The model forecasts significant price increases for tourist residences in the short run. The second part of the analysis consists of confronting the forecast with the actual evolution of prices during the three years after the merger. Despite the required asset divestitures, we find evidence that positive price variations occurred from 2001-2002. However, in the very long term, competitive pressure has been intensified by the entry of real-estate promoters and by the increasing use of the Internet as a new distribution channel.
Clinical neuroimaging in epileptic patients with autoscopic hallucinations and out-of-body experiences

Summary Autoscopic phenomena are complex illusory perceptions of one's body during which human subjects experience a second own body or double in their environment. Autoscopic phenomena most commonly refer tovisual doubles, although doubles may also be felt or heard and consist of autoscopic hallucinations, out-ofbody experiences, and heautoscopy. Recently, many neurological reports have focussed on out-of-body experiences. Here we review neurological data on autoscopic hallucinations and present a case during complex partial seizures due to neurocysticercosis. Epileptologie 2007; 24: 90 ‐ 95
Exploring the relationship between FDI flows and CDM potential

Since it was conceived in 1997, the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) has become much more concrete, and expectations and reality are beginning to confront one another in the emerging carbon marketplace. This article provides an overview of this innovative policy instrument, which is an element of the United Nations Kyoto Protocol, and questions the simplistic assumption that CDM flows will essentially mimic foreign direct investment (FDI) flows. By shedding light on the nature of the CDM and exploring the relationship between the CDM and FDI, this article clarifies CDM-related determinants of FDI flows, suggests CDM opportunities for transnational corporations (TNCs) and outlines further research needed to determine how developing country entities can attract CDM investment or enhance their ability to export CDM certificates.
Brand origin: conceptualization and review

Argues that, although researchers have studied several aspects of brands which may affect consumer purchasing processes, one significant characteristic of many brands ‐ the origin cues that they contain ‐ has received little or no attention. Reviews current research in the country‐of‐origin area related to branding, as well as the work done by other researchers on brand personality and brand image. Distinguishes brand origin from country of origin, and shows how this concept could be valuable in resolving a methodological problem with some country‐of‐origin studies. Surveys ways in which brand origin is used in practice, both implicitly and explicitly, and discusses the relationship between brand origin and the concept of the global brand. Finally, highlights potential problems associated with the use of brand origin, draws managerial implications relating to its use, and suggests areas where research is needed.
Cocaine and d‐amphetamine increase c‐fos expression in the rat cerebellum

Psychostimulant drugs have been reported to increase the expression of some immediate‐early genes in the cerebellum. In the present study, immunohistochemical techniques were used to assess the pattern of c fos expression in the cerebellum produced by d‐amphetamine or cocaine. Systemic administration of d‐amphetamine (1.5, 6 mg/kg) or cocaine (10, 20 mg/kg) increased locomotor activity, which at low doses was blocked by pretreatment with the dopamine D1 receptor antagonist SCH 23390 (1 mg/ kg). Within the cerebellum, basal levels of c fos expression were abolished by SCH 23390, with the exception of lobule VI. Dose‐dependent increases in Fos‐like immunoreactivity were elicited by d‐amphetamine and cocaine. Pretreatment with SCH 23390 greatly reduced the extent to which either stimulant increased c‐fos expression. Psychostimulant‐induced Fos‐like immunoreactive nuclei were generally restricted to the granule cell layer within each of the midvermal cerebellar lobules (I‐X), although occasional nuclei were found in the Purkinje cell layer. In addition, a homogeneous pattern of Fos‐like immunoreactive nuclei, of sparse density, was also found near the pial surface of the molecular layer following d‐amphetamine but not cocaine. Within the granule cell layer dense clusters of Fos‐like immunoreactive neurons extended from the molecular layer to the Purkinje cell layer and were found at both the pial surface as well as in the deep portions of individual folia. These data add to a growing body of evidence indicating that the induction of regionally specific alterations in c‐fos expression by psychostimulants is mediated via a D1 receptor mechanism. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Case Series: Extracorporeal Shockwave Myocardial Revascularization Therapy Improves Ischemic Response, Functional Capacity, and Quality of Life in Indicated CABG-Stable Angina Pectoris Patients

Introduction Extracorporeal shockwave myocardial revascularization (ESMR) is included in the guidelines only for patients with refractory angina pectoris having no option for invasive revascularization. We intend to report a case series with ESMR therapy is indicated patients with coronary artery bypass grafting-stable angina pectoris (CABG-SAP) who refuse the surgery, irrespective of angina symptoms. Methods We review medical records of patients with SAP admitted to ESMR therapy in Dr. Hasan Sadikin General Hospital, Bandung, Indonesia from January 2018 to December 2019. Recorded variables at baseline and after therapy extracted, namely, (1) ischemic response, double product, and (2) functional capacity measured as metabolic equivalent (MET) using treadmill test; (3) six-minute walking test distance achieved; and (4) quality of life using SF-36 Questionnaire. Results A total of four indicated patients with CABG-SAP from 50 to 75 years old were included in this study. At baseline, one patient is CCS class I and two patients are CCS class II with SDS ranging from 3 to 17. Ischemic response improved in all the patients. The double product improved in patient 1 9,600–14,872 mm Hg × bpm, patient 2 9,460–10,640 mm Hg × bpm, and patient 4 17,220–20,480 mm Hg × bpm. The functional capacity improved in Patient 1 8.07–8.91 METs, patient 2 1.91–4.01 METs, patient 3 3.45–6.39 METs, and patient 4 3.9–4.43 METs. The 6-min walking distance improved in patient 1 540–570 m and patient 2 345–405 m. The CCS class, bodily pain, and general health domain scores improved in all patients. Conclusion ESMR therapy might be beneficial for indicated patients with CABG-SAP to improve ischemic response, functional capacity, and physical component of quality of life.
Tissue Models for Neisseria gonorrhoeae Research—From 2D to 3D

Neisseria gonorrhoeae is a human-specific pathogen that causes gonorrhea, the second most common sexually transmitted infection worldwide. Disease progression, drug discovery, and basic host-pathogen interactions are studied using different approaches, which rely on models ranging from 2D cell culture to complex 3D tissues and animals. In this review, we discuss the models used in N. gonorrhoeae research. We address both in vivo (animal) and in vitro cell culture models, discussing the pros and cons of each and outlining the recent advancements in the field of three-dimensional tissue models. From simple 2D monoculture to complex advanced 3D tissue models, we provide an overview of the relevant methodology and its application. Finally, we discuss future directions in the exciting field of 3D tissue models and how they can be applied for studying the interaction of N. gonorrhoeae with host cells under conditions closely resembling those found at the native sites of infection.
Governance Commitment and Time Differences in Aspects of Sustainability Reporting in Nigerian Banks

The study examined the extent of statistical significant difference between the economic, environmental, governance and social aspects of sustainability reporting as a result of board committee on sustainability and time (year) of reporting for business organizations in the Nigerian banking sector. The years of reporting under consideration were 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013. Content analysis methodology was employed through a reporting index used to score the amount of economic, environmental, governance and social indicators of sustainability reporting. The results of this study indicated that business organizations with board committee on sustainability had more indicators of sustainability reporting than those without board committees on sustainability issues. Also, sustainability reporting in 2013 was higher than that of prior years (2012, 2011 and 2010) for the economic, environmental and social indicators. The governance indicators of 2012 was highest compared to the other years (2013, 2011 and 2010) under consideration in this study. The implication of this finding is that business organizations that have board committees on sustainability are monitored by such boards to report more to stakeholders. On the other hand, business organizations are appreciating the need to engage in sustainability reporting with each passing year. This could be due to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Sustainability Reporting framework that business organizations in the banking sector have to adhere to. When sustainability issues are monitored from the board of directors, business organizations are likely to increase and improve on their sustainability reporting.
Managing Traffic Congestion - The Case of Land-Use Management and Transport Planning Integration

Urban structure and transport systems shape each other. Land use and transportation are inextricably linked. It is this linkage that professionals often struggle to understand and subsequently fi nd hard to respond to in ways that balance social and quality-of-life objectives while fulfi lling environmental and economic objectives. The results are distorted land-use patterns, urban sprawl and lower densities coupled to growing car use and congestion. Traffi c congestion is increasing, air quality is under threat and time, land and money are being consumed at everincreasing rates as people carry out their daily activities. Roads play a critical part in meeting our transport needs and supporting our economic objectives. However, urban areas dominated by road infrastructure to accommodate high car usage generally suffer poor amenities, congestion, reduced accessibility and signifi cantly impact on the environment. Not surprisingly, there is a wide range of suggested solutions to these problems: from building new roads to banning cars, and from improving bus services to smart growth strategies, all aimed at infl uencing driver behaviour and travel patterns. More often than not the solutions are not coordinated across transport planning and land-use management (LUM) processes as they are implemented by different agencies of government with sometimes mutually exclusive objectives. It is neither desirable to focus on a strictly sectoral approach to implementing such measures, nor is it sustainable to implement a variety of measures on a piecemeal basis in order to address traffi c congestion. Key to managing traffi c congestion in a sustainable way is to develop integrated strategies that cut across supply, demand and LUM measures in forming a balanced package. This chapter describes why it is important to integrate transport planning and LUM aimed at road-based, private car traffi c congestion reduction in urban areas. It considers the intrinsic relationship between transport and land use