Online handwritten mathematical expression recognition

This thesis presents a system for online handwritten mathematical expression recognition that involves integrals, summation notation, superscripts and subscripts, square-roots, fractions, trigonometric and logarithmic functions; together with a user-interface for writing scientific article. The aim of this study is to utilize the most convenient man-machine-interface, a pen, for input of mathematical expressions. In pen-enabled devices, handwriting sequences are collected by the digitization of pen movements which outputs an array of coordinates called strokes. A neural network is trained for recognizing each stroke and a recursive algorithm parses the expression by combining neural network output and structure of the expression. The interface associated with the proposed system integrates the built-in recognition capabilities of the Microsoft's Tablet PC-API for recognizing textual input and also supports conversion of hand-drawn figures into PNG format, which enable the user to enter text, mathematics and draw figures in a single interface. After the recognition, all output is combined into one LATEX code and compiled into a PDF file.s The system presented in this thesis provides a natural interface, hence enables easyinput of mathematical expressions in all pen-enabled devices such as tablet PCs, PDAs, external tablet pads, electronic pen-boards etc

Interventions to reduce unnecessary caesarean sections in healthy women and babies

Optimising the use of caesarean section (CS) is of global concern. Underuse leads to maternal and perinatal mortality and morbidity. Conversely, overuse of CS has not shown benefits and can create harm. Worldwide, the frequency of CS continues to increase, and interventions to reduce unnecessary CSs have shown little success. Identifying the underlying factors for the continuing increase in CS use could improve the efficacy of interventions. In this Series paper, we describe the factors for CS use that are associated with women, families, health professionals, and health-care organisations and systems, and we examine behavioural, psychosocial, health system, and financial factors. We also outline the type and effects of interventions to reduce CS use that have been investigated. Clinical interventions, such as external cephalic version for breech delivery at term, vaginal breech delivery in appropriately selected women, and vaginal birth after CS, could reduce the frequency of CS use. Approaches such as labour companionship and midwife-led care have been associated with higher proportions of physiological births, safer outcomes, and lower health-care costs relative to control groups without these interventions, and with positive maternal experiences, in high-income countries. Such approaches need to be assessed in middle-income and low-income countries. Educational interventions for women should be complemented with meaningful dialogue with health professionals and effective emotional support for women and families. Investing in the training of health professionals, eliminating financial incentives for CS use, and reducing fear of litigation is fundamental. Safe, private, welcoming, and adequately resourced facilities are needed. At the country level, effective medical leadership is essential to ensure CS is used only when indicated. We conclude that interventions to reduce overuse must be multicomponent and locally tailored, addressing women’s and health professionals’ concerns, as well as health system and financial factors