Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
An analysis of OpenCL for portable imaging

In the development of commercial imaging based software applications there is the challenge of trying to provide high performance imaging algorithms that are utilized by multiple applications running on a range of hardware platforms. Many times the imaging algorithms will need to be run on workstations, smartphones, tablets, or other devices that may have different CPU and possibly GPU/DSP hardware. Implementing software on the cloud infrastructure can place limitations on the hardware capabilities imaging software can take advantage of. In the face of these challenges, OpenCL provides a promising framework to write imaging algorithms in. It promises that algorithms can be written once and then deployed on many different hardware configurations; GPU, DSP, CPU, etc. and take advantage of the computing features of particular hardware. In this paper we look at how well OpenCL delivers on this multi target promise for different image processing algorithms. Both GPU (Nvidia and AMD) and CPU (AMD and Intel) platforms are explored to see how OpenCL does in using the same code on different hardware. We also compare OpenCL with optimized CPU and GPU (CUDA) versions of the same imaging algorithms. Our findings are presented and we share some interesting observations in using OpenCL. The imaging algorithms include a basic CMYK to RGB color transformation, 25 x 25 floating point convolution, and visual attention saliency map calculation. The saliency map algorithm is complex and includes many different imaging calculations; difference of Gaussian, color features, image statistics, FFT filtering, and assorted other algorithms. Looking at such a complex set of algorithms gives a good real world test for comparing the different platforms with.
Using synchronous rectification for medium voltage applications

Synchronous rectification has been used for low voltage applications from long time ago. MOSFET technology for such low voltages has been incredibly improved during the last years. Furthermore, this improvement has also been very significant in other voltage ranges. This paper explores the possibility of using synchronous rectification for higher output voltages, such as 12 V, 48 V, or 100 V. Regarding the conduction losses, commercial devices available today may allow using synchronous rectification for these output voltages up to quite high power levels. However, as the voltage rating increases, the switching capability decreases, especially as far as the body diode is concerned. Hence, switching losses make the solution worse than the conventional diode scheme for output voltages higher than 24 V.
What is the optimal management for preventing saphenous vein graft diseases?: early results of intravascular angioscopic assessment.

BACKGROUND The predominant mechanism of early failure of saphenous vein grafts (SVG) after coronary bypass remains unclear, so angioscopy was used to identify the morphological changes. METHODS AND RESULTS Of the 31 SVGs assessed 15 had both yellow plaque and thrombi, whereas in the remaining 16 SVGs the intima was clear white. The serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level was significantly higher in the diseased SVG group. Eight patients of the normal SVG group were prescribed ticlopidine, compared with only 1 from the diseased SVG group (p=0.015). CONCLUSIONS This is the first direct demonstration of yellow plaque and/or thrombosis in SVGs by intravascular angioscopy. In addition to the importance of prescribing statins, it might be vital to also add ticlopidine to aspirin therapy.
Facilitating Information Sharing in Organizations using Electronic Content Management Systems (ECMS): Towards a Model

This research-in-progress paper explores how the use of ECMS facilitates the sharing of business processrelated information that supports end-to-end processes between business units in an organization. Based on an in-depth literature review, we propose a theoretical model to explain ECMS-use in two different types of business processes namely (1) processes with high or low Standardisation and (2) processes with high or low Integration. The model which will be tested in later stages of this research will provide a deeper explanation on how and why organizations may use ECMS in different ways as shaped by the Standardisation and Integration aspects of the organization’s particular business process. Therefore, this study provides a deeper understanding on the use of ECMS and the value they can bring to organizations in terms of improving the sharing of information that supports the way the business operates.
Reducing Foley Catheter Device Days in an Intensive Care Unit: Using the Evidence to Change Practice

The prolonged use of indwelling urinary catheters can lead to many complications, the most prevalent being urinary tract infections. These hospital-acquired infections can increase hospital costs, length of stay, and mortality rates. Evidence-based guidelines for the prevention of urinary tract infections are compared and discussed. Minimizing indwelling urinary catheter use is well-recognized in the literature to reduce the risk of these infections. To decrease the incidence of catheter-associated urinary tract infections, the staff of a 22-bed, mixed medical, surgical, and trauma intensive care unit focused on reducing the number of foley catheter device days. A multidisciplinary team was convened to create an evidence-based plan. Staff nurses were engaged in the development and implementation of the plan. Criteria-based foley catheter guidelines, a decision-making algorithm, and a daily checklist were implemented that led to a significant reduction in foley catheter device days and a decrease in catheter-associated urinary tract infections.
Assessment of the migration potential of nanosilver from nanoparticle-coated low-density polyethylene food packaging into food simulants

ABSTRACT An experimental nanosilver-coated low-density polyethylene (LDPE) food packaging was incubated with food simulants using a conventional oven and tested for migration according to European Commission Regulation No. 10/2011. The commercial LDPE films were coated using a layer-by-layer (LbL) technique and three levels of silver (Ag) precursor concentration (0.5%, 2% and 5% silver nitrate (AgNO3), respectively) were used to attach antimicrobial Ag. The experimental migration study conditions (time, temperature and food simulant) under conventional oven heating (10 days at 60°C, 2 h at 70°C, 2 h at 60°C or 10 days at 70°C) were chosen to simulate the worst-case storage period of over 6 months. In addition, migration was quantified under microwave heating. The total Ag migrant levels in the food simulants were quantified by inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES). Mean migration levels obtained by ICP-AES for oven heating were in the range 0.01–1.75 mg l−1. Migration observed for microwave heating was found to be significantly higher when compared with oven heating for similar temperatures (100°C) and identical exposure times (2 min). In each of the packaging materials and food simulants tested, the presence of nanoparticles (NPs) was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). On inspection of the migration observed under conventional oven heating, an important finding was the significant reduction in migration resulting from the increased Ag precursor concentration used to attach Ag on the LDPE LbL-coated films. This observation merits further investigation into the LbL coating process used, as it suggests potential for process modifications to reduce migration. In turn, any reduction in NP migration below regulatory limits could greatly support the antimicrobial silver nanoparticle (AgNP)-LDPE LbL-coated films being used as a food packaging material.
EFFECTS OF PSIDIUM GUAJAVA AQUEOUS EXTRACTS ON HAEMATOLOGICAL PROFILE AND SERUM LIPID VARIABLES OF ALBINO RATS

The effect of aqueous extract of leaves on some haematological and serum lipid parameters in rats during a seven day administration of the doses of 250mg/kg and 500 mg/kg body weight orally was investigated. The parameters evaluated include serum lipids, red and white blood cell indices. The results show that the extract administered significantly increased (p<0.05) packed cell volume, haemoglobin concentration, red blood cell, MCH, MCHC, MCV and platelet count t at the dose of 250mg /kg and 500 mg/kg body weight when compared with control. Whereas Psidium guajava the platelet was significantly increased (p<0.05) at 250mg/kg body weight but at 500mg/kg body weight the count significanty reduced (p<0.05). Also, the extract significantly increased (p<0.05) white blood cell count at all doses administered when compared with control. Moreover, the extract significantly reduced (p<0.05) total cholesterol concentration, triglycerides and HDL-cholesterol concentration in the serum while it had no significant effect on serum LDL-cholesterol concentration at all doses administered when compared with controls. The results of this study suggest that the extract may have beneficial effect on serum cholesterol concentration and triglycerides reduction as well as in anemia and immunity dependent disorders.
ELECTRON MICROSCOPIC STUDY IN TWO CASES OF JAKOB‐CREUTZFELDT DISEASE

1. Two biopsies from patients with Jakob-Creutzfeldt disease were examined with the electron microscope. 2. The status spongiosus in this condition is due to dilatation of astrocytic and neuronal processes; it has been suggested that focal clearing of astrocytic cytoplasm may reflect imbalance of brain electrolytes. 3. Neurons were observed with depleted ribosomes and cisterns of endo-plasmic reticulum, perhaps reflecting derangement of the protein metabolism. 4. One abnormal synapse and probably parts, of others have also been found.
The professionalization of Brazilian nursing in the written media of the end of the nineteenth century: a gender analysis.

UNLABELLED The object is the relationship between the professionalization of Brazilian nursing and women, in the broadcasting of news about the creation of the Professional School of Nurses, in the light of gender. AIMS to discuss the linkage of women to the beginning of the professionalization of Brazilian nursing following the circumstances and evidence of the creation of the Professional School of Nurses analyzed from the perspective of gender. The news articles were analyzed from the viewpoint of Cultural History, founded in the gender concept of Joan Scott and in the History of Women. The creation of the School and the priority given in the media to women consolidate the vocational ideal of the woman for nursing in a profession subjugated to the physician but also representing the conquest of a space in the world of education and work, reconfiguring the social position of nursing and of woman in Brazil.
Meeting the family planning needs of postpartum women.

This commentary reviews social and operations research that test the delivery of postpartum services in less developed countries in order to present programmatic lessons regarding the organization of the programs. It focuses on reviews conducted in sub-Saharan Africa Asia and the Near East and Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) and offers a clear and consistent picture of effective practices that can be implemented to improve programs around the world.
UV Damage and Photoreactivation: Timing and Age are Everything¶

Abstract Aquatic organisms, ranging from bacteria to fish, living in clear lakes are presently receiving damaging levels of UV radiation. Photoreactivation is a light-dependent mechanism by which some organisms deal with DNA damage caused by UV radiation. Yet, photoreactivation is a mechanism that confounds long-term predictive modeling of UV effects on the survival of these organisms. Here we show that a short-lived rotifer species, Asplanchna girodi, previously thought to have little to no photoreactivation, does indeed have a significant amount of it. The ability to undergo photoreactivation in A. girodi is dependent on age and becomes apparent only after several days of observation after UV exposure.
The Acceptability and Feasibility of the Positive Reinforcement Opportunity Project, a Community-Based Contingency Management Methamphetamine Treatment Program for Gay and Bisexual Men in San Francisco

Abstract The Positive Reinforcement Opportunity Project (PROP) was a pilot program developed to build on the efficacy of contingency management (CM) using positive reinforcement to address the treatment needs of gay and bisexual men currently using crystal methamphetamines (meth). It was hypothesized that a version of CM could be implemented in San Francisco that was less costly than traditional treatment methods and reached gay and other MSM using meth who also engaged in highrisk sexual activity. Of the 178 men who participated in PROP from December 2003 to December 2005, many self-reported behaviors for acquiring and spreading sexually transmitted diseases including HIV infection. During the initial intake, 73% reported high-risk sexual behavior in the prior three months, with 60% reporting anal receptive and/or insertive sex without condoms. This report describes the implementation of PROP and suggest both its limitations and potential strengths. Initial findings suggest that PROP was a useful and low cost substance use treatment option that resulted in a 35% 90-day completion rate, which is similar to graduation rates from traditional, more costly treatment options. Further evaluation of the limited data from three- and six-month follow-up of those who completed PROP is currently ongoing.
RELATIONSHIP OF BREAST MILK LEPTIN WITH MATERNAL AND INFANT ADIPOSITY

INTRODUCTION: Leptin - the product of the obese gene (ob) - is synthesized by adipose tissue and contributes to the regulation of energy homeostasis and food intake. Recently, immunoreactive leptin was reported to be present in human milk. The aim of this study was to determine any possible link between breast milk leptin concentrations and adiposity in exclusively breast-fed infants. METHODS: 130 healthy, exclusively breast-fed infants beyond neonatal period and their mothers were included in the study. Infants whose weight for age was above the 75 th , and between 25 th and 75 th percentiles were defined as obese (n=65) and non-obese (n=65), respectively. Anthropometric measurements of infants and mothers were also made and breast milk samples were analyzed for leptin. RESULTS: There was no significant difference between breast milk leptin concentrations of mothers of obese and non-obese infants. Breast milk leptin concentrations significantly correlated with mothers' body mass index (r=0.54, P<0.001) and weight (r=0.46, P<0.001). There was no significant correlation between breast milk leptin concentration and weight of infants. CONCLUSIONS: Leptin concentrations of human milk are not different in the mothers of obese and non-obese infants. Our findings suggest that milk-borne leptin has no significant effect on adiposity during infancy.
Strategies for Recruiting and Retaining an Effective Nursing Workforce in Nigeria

This paper discussed the ways of managing recruitment and retention problems in order to guarantee optimum and well motivated health workforce. The demand and supply of Health Human Resource (HHR) with particular reference to nurses is affected by economic pressure, managed care and market led reforms, sociocultural and political influence. The supply of nurses is influenced by changes in the health care system, nursing education, economic condition and nurses' demographics. The strategies for recruiting and retaining an effective nursing workforce may also guide nursing leaders in developing their future recruitment and retention efforts and resource allocation, especially nursing position allocation in financially tight times. Vacancy rates and occupational turnover were identified as basic indicators of Health Human Resource (HHR) policy and planning. Consequences of recruitment and retention problems were identified to include adverse effect on quality of care and cost. It was noted that policy intervention is crucial to keep nurses in the workforce and to improve recruitment. Also identified were policy options used to retain and develop the nursing workforce, some of which includes: policies targeting personal characteristics of nurses, monetary incentives, non-monetary incentives, contextual factors, reducing violence in the workplace and leadership. In conclusion, it was noted that health workers function in a situation of resource scarcity of all kinds. Unfortunately, in resource poor countries, financial reward is likely to assume more importance than in richer countries.
Accuracy of self-reported height and weight in a community-based sample of older African Americans and whites.

BACKGROUND To ascertain accuracy of self-reported height, weight (and hence body mass index) in African American and white women and men older than 70 years of age. METHOD The sample consisted of cognitively intact participants at the third in-person wave (1992-1993) of the Duke Established Populations for Epidemiologic Studies of the Elderly (age 71 and older, N = 1761; residents of five adjacent counties, one urban, four rural). During in-person, in-home interviews using trained interviewers, height and weight were self-reported (and measured later in the same visit using a standardized protocol), and information were obtained on race, sex, and age. RESULTS Accuracy of self-reported height and weight was high (intraclass correlation coefficient 0.85 and 0.97, respectively) but differed as a function of race and age. On average, all groups overestimated their height; whereas (non-Hispanic) white men and women underestimated their weight, African Americans overestimated their weight. Overestimation of height and weight was more marked in persons 85 years and older. Specificity for overweight (body mass index [kg/m(2)] ≥ 25) and obesity (body mass index ≥ 30) ranged from 0.90 to 0.99 for African Americans and whites, but sensitivity was better for African Americans (overweight: 0.81, obesity: 0.89), than for whites (0.66 and 0.57, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Height and weight self-reported by African Americans and whites over the age of 70 can be used in epidemiological studies, with greater caution needed for self-reports of whites, and of persons 85 years of age or older.
Role of Glucose Effectiveness in the Determination of Glucose Tolerance

I nsulin secretion and insulin action are major factors in the determination of glucose tolerance, and insulinopenia and insulin resistance cause glucose intolerance and/or NIDDM. Because glucose itself can enhance glucose disposal and suppress endogenous glucose production independent of a change in insulin, it is necessary to consider an additional factor in determination of glucose tolerance: glucose effectiveness. This phenomenon represents the ability of glucose per se, under basal insulin conditions, to enhance glucose disposal and to suppress endogenous glucose production. Glucose effectiveness has been measured in many studies in which glucose disposal and output have been quantified at basal insulin but with widely varying glycemia. The effect of glucose on glucose disposal in humans is such that a 100 mg/dl increase in plasma glucose (at basal insulin) will increase glucose disposal by 1.63 mg • min ' -kg '. Similarly, the same 100 mg/dl increment in glucose alone will suppress endogenous glucose output by 0.79 mg • min ' • kg '. Thus, two-thirds of glucose effectiveness in humans is the disposal effect [1.63/(1.63 + 0.79)] and the remaining third is the effect to suppress the liver. Having numerical values for glucose effectiveness makes it possible to calculate the importance of hyperglycemia per se relative to the importance of insulin to disposition of a glucose load. In normal individuals, ~50% of the glucose disposal during an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) is due to glucose effectiveness and not to the dynamic insulin response. In the insulin-resistant obese individual, 83% of glucose disposal occurs independent of the dynamic insulin response; in NIDDM, because of severe insulin resistance and relative insulinopenia, 99% of glucose uptake after a carbohydrate meal is due to glucose effectiveness. Thus, glucose effectiveness is a component equal to or greater than insulin itself in the determination of glucose tolerance. Glucose effectiveness can be assessed from the intravenous glucose tolerance test (IVGTT) by using the so-called minimal model approach; the sensitivity parameter that is calculated, the glucose effectiveness index (5G) represents the sum, or whole-body, effect of hyperglycemia to enhance glucose disposal and to suppress endogenous glucose production. Using the model, SG has been measured multiple times in humans: the average from 18 independent studies is 0.024 min". Physical activity and training almost double SG; states of glucose intolerance are characterized by reduced SG. For example, SG is down 33% in offspring of two parents with NIDDM, down by 50% in subjects with impaired glucose tolerance, and reduced as much as 60% in subjects on a very-low-calorie diet. A hallmark of states of reduced SG appears to be the insulinopenic state, although this hypothesis requires further validation. Whether reduced glucose effectiveness is a true inheritable defect that can enhance risk for and contribute to the onset of NIDDM remains to be investigated. Recent evidence that glucose can
Relationship between occlusal wear of the teeth and periodontal health.

– The study was undertaken in order to examine the relationship between occlusal wear and periodontal health in thc maxillary and mandibular anterior, premolar and molar regions of the human dentition. The occurrence and degree of attrition was recorded for the 4,316 fully erupted teeth of 154 males aged 19–22 years. The mandibular central incisors and the canines of both jaws were found most often to show attrition. In general, occlusal wear was found to be associated with improved cleanliness, and thus, in most areas of the dentition, also with improved periodontal conditions. At the openings of the major salivary glands, however, more calculus was found on attrited than intact teeth, and consequently, no improvement of the periodontal status was found in mandibular anterior teeth and maxillary molars. As the degree of attrition was not influenced by the frequency of toothbrushing, it seems evident that the masticatory function which results in occlusal wear of the teeth, has an effect per se on periodontal health.
3rd annual DNA vaccines forum.

The 3rd Annual DNA Vaccines Forum was recently held in London, UK, from March 16–17, 2006. This forum was organized by Marcus Evans Conferences and the central theme was: Evolution and Viability in Human Clinical Trials and Veterinary Commercialized Products. According to the program leaflet, this conference was especially targeted at senior executives from pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, but this was also a very interesting meeting for academics (capable of paying the registration fee). Besides the regular talks, there was ample time for discussion and networking during the coffee and tea breaks and the interactive lunches. Speakers at the conference were mostly representatives from biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry, and included: Jeffrey Ulmer (Chiron Vaccines), Roman Necina (Boehringer Ingelheim), Bill Henry (PowderMed), Yu-Wei Chang (Fort Dodge Animal Health), Robert Whalen (Maxygen), Joerg Schneider (Oxxon), Jacob Glenting (Bioneer A/S), Raf Lemmens (GE Healthcare), Ralf Wagner (Geneart; University of Regensburg, Germany) and Alain Rolland (Vical). Eminent speakers from academia and research institutions included: David Weiner (University of Pennsylvania, PA, USA), Vito Fazio (University Campus Bio-Medico, Italy), Christian Ottensmeier (University of Southampton, UK) and Thomas Richie (Naval Medical Research Center, MD, USA). Finally, regulatory agencies were represented by Martin Friede and Jinho Shin (WHO) and Dennis Klinman (via live videolink from the FDA).