Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The Effectiveness of Pap and Visual Inspection With Acetic Acid (VIAA) Tests in Cervical Dysplasia Screenings During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Objective This study was aimed at analyzing the validity and reliability of the Papanicolaou (Pap) test and visual inspection with acetic acid (VIAA) tests for cervical dysplasia screenings during the COVID-19 pandemic. Material and methods This was a retrospective study of patients 21 years or older seen at the Luis Negreiros Primary Care Center in Lima, Peru between 2020 and 2021, who underwent cervical dysplasia screening (Pap or VIAA). Relevant information regarding patient age, date of service, and Pap and VIAA results were collected. Parallel form reliability was analyzed with chi-square tests, and phi, contingency and Cramer's V coefficients. The validity of these tests was analyzed through the calculation of the sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values with confidence intervals. A p-value less than 0.05 indicated statistical significance. Results From 4,503 records, the sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values for Pap were 0.87 (0.81-0.92), 1.0 (1.0-1.0), 1.0 (1.0-1.0) and 0.99 (0.98-0.99), respectively, and those for VIAA were 0.22 (0.14-0.31), 0.10 (0.10-0.10), 0.53 (0.38-0.69) and 0.10 (0.10-0.10), respectively. Test validity varied slightly according to patient age and the year of testing. The correlation, although significant, was inverse; chi-square = 39.18, p <0.001, phi = -0.60, contingency = 0.51 and Cramer’s V = -0.59. Conclusion The validity and reliability of Pap testing and VIAA for cervical dysplasia screening significantly decreased during the COVID-19 pandemic. The correlation between these tests, although significant, was inverse. More larger-scale studies are needed to confirm these findings and understand the reasons underlying the decreased effectiveness of these tests.
Antifragile: Things That Gain from Disorder

ANTIFRAGILE: THINGS THAT GAIN FROM DISORDER Nassim Nicholas Taleb Random House, New York, 2012, 519 pp. ISBN: 978-1-4000-6782-4Antifragile is a book about the structure and behavior of dynamic systems. To a mathematician, this is mainstream mathematics. However, Taleb, writing for a general audience, seems to try to hide the formal mathematics and obscure its usefulness by his focus on a more literary, historical, and philosophical presentation. Yet, in the end, enough mathematical evidence and explanation of Taleb's antifragile theory as well as examples make this book worthy of consideration. Taleb's theory is simple enough. He classifies systems by the nonlinearity (convexity and concavity) of their utility or health functions as either antifragile or fragile. While never producing a precise measure for this property for systems or entities, he does give myriad interesting examples of his theory in systems, items, and concepts from biology, human nature, natural science, information science, social science, business, literature, politics, and philosophy. Taleb's reason for inventing the term "antifragile" is interesting: "Half of life - the interesting half of life - we don't have a name for. " (p. 33)It's a shame that Taleb does not take a more mathematical and scientific approach to his fragility concept, because many excellent points could be made and insights developed that could help to understand his examples. Taleb uses the word "antifragile" to describe systems that are the opposite of fragile, and therefore, usually, a property to celebrate, advocate, design and use to one's benefit. Systems and items that improve or gain from disorder and stress are antifragile to that disorder or stress. The nonlinearity of antifragility can come from many properties of the system: redundancy, complexity, volatility, randomness, and asymmetry, the author's interesting examples come from all areas of life. Some that are rich in flavor and insight include health, medicine, love, banking, traffic, research, decision making, education, ethics, government, religion, smoking, technology, and weightlifting. The author is careful to contrast the antifragility property with related but different concepts of robustness and resilience.This book contains seven sections (called books), a glossary, a bibliography, and two appendices. The first and most insightful table is a five-page Table of Triads - a classification of dozens of elements by their range of fragility (fragility on one end, antifragile on the other, and robustness in the middle - thus the term triad). For example, directed research is fragile, opportunistic research is robust, and stochastic tinkering is antifragile. Corporate employment is fragile, the dental profession is robust, and taxi driving can be considered antifragile. Bureaucrats are fragile and entrepreneurs are antifragile. In literature, e-readers are fragile, books are robust, and oral tradition is antifragile. Mother Nature is Taleb's prime example of antifragility - living things like "a certain measure of randomness and disorder", (p. …
Can Tax Increment Financing Benefit U.S. Rust Belt Communities?

Place-based economic policies and value-capture instruments are resurging in many American communities looking for alternative ways to fund infrastructure projects and support local economic revival. Using principal component methods, the authors construct an index for identifying distressed neighborhoods to enable the targeting of place-based policies involving tax increment financing (TIF). In addition, the authors use the Monte Carlo method to simulate the impact of a TIF intervention on employment and property values in neighborhoods. The analysis focuses on Broome County in upstate New York, a region that witnessed massive deindustrialization as manufacturing firms moved to other states and overseas. The authors find that a significant fraction of neighborhoods in the study area would qualify for TIF-type policies that would lead to significant improvements in property values and, likely, modest employment effects.
Bank funding constraints and stock liquidity

This paper examines the relationship between bank marginal funding constraints and stock liquidity. Using bank credit default swap (CDS) spreads we show that increased funding constraints weaken bank stock liquidity (as measured by liquidity tightness, depth, and resilience). This effect strengthens during crises periods. Deteriorating bank stock liquidity is in turn priced into excess stock returns. In addition, we find that during liquidity crises, monetary expansion can break the relationship between funding costs and stock liquidity. Heightened monetary policy uncertainty, however, strengthens this relation.
Wavelet and Spectral Analysis of Normal and Abnormal Heart Sound for Diagnosing Cardiac Disorders

Body auscultation is a frequent clinical diagnostic procedure used to diagnose heart problems. The key advantage of this clinical method is that it provides a cheap and effective solution that enables medical professionals to interpret heart sounds for the diagnosis of cardiac diseases. Signal processing can quantify the distribution of amplitude and frequency content for diagnostic purposes. In this experiment, the use of signal processing and wavelet analysis in screening cardiac disorders provided enough evidence to distinguish between the heart sounds of a healthy and unhealthy heart. Real-time data was collected using an IoT device, and the noise was reduced using the REES52 sensor. It was found that mean frequency is sufficiently discriminatory to distinguish between a healthy and unhealthy heart, according to features derived from signal amplitude distribution in the time and frequency domain analysis. The results of the present study indicate the adequate discrimination between the characteristics of heart sounds for automatic detection of cardiac problems by signal processing from normal and abnormal heart sounds.
Finding combinatorial structures

In this thesis we answer questions in two related areas of combinatorics: Ramsey theory and asymptotic enumeration. In Ramsey theory we introduce a new method for finding desired structures. We find a new upper bound on the Ramsey number of a path against a kth power of a path. Using our new method and this result we obtain a new upper bound on the Ramsey number of the kth power of a long cycle. As a corollary we show that, while graphs on n vertices with maximum degree k may in general have Ramsey numbers as large as ckn, if the stronger restriction that the bandwidth should be at most k is given, then the Ramsey numbers are bounded by the much smaller value. We go on to attack an old conjecture of Lehel: by using our new method we can improve on a result of Luczak, Rodl and Szemeredi [60]. Our new method replaces their use of the Regularity Lemma, and allows us to prove that for any n > 218000, whenever the edges of the complete graph on n vertices are two-coloured there exist disjoint monochromatic cycles covering all n vertices. In asymptotic enumeration we examine first the class of bipartite graphs with some forbidden induced subgraph H. We obtain some results for every H, with special focus on the cases where the growth speed of the class is factorial, and make some comments on a connection to clique-width. We then move on to a detailed discussion of 2-SAT functions. We find the correct asymptotic formula for the number of 2-SAT functions on n variables (an improvement on a result of Bollob´as, Brightwell and Leader [13], who found the dominant term in the exponent), the first error term for this formula, and some bounds on smaller error terms. Finally we obtain various expected values in the uniform model of random 2-SAT functions.
Influence of augmented feedback on learning upper extremity tasks after stroke

With upcoming innovative technologies more possibilities arise in the application of augmented feedback in rehabilitation therapy of the hemiparetic arm after stroke. The effect of different aspects and types of augmented feedback on motor functions and motor activities of the hemiparetic arm after stroke are studied in a systematic literature review. Based on current literature it was not possible to determine which combinations of aspects and types of augmented feedback are most essential for a beneficial effect on motor activities and motor functions of the hemiparetic arm after stroke. This was due to the combination of multiple aspects and types of augmented feedback in the included studies. Knowledge about the actual use of position feedback during practice in reaching training after stroke is obtained from a training experiment in five stroke survivors. During training, subjects performed reaching movements over a predefined path, when deviating shoulder and elbow joints received position feedback using restraining forces. Although augmented feedback use was limited, kinematic outcome measures and movement performance during training increased in all subjects. In an experimental study knowledge about the influence of different feedback conditions on motor learning in healthy elderly and stroke survivors was obtained. Repetitive reaching movements were performed with a visual distortion of hand movements in three feedback conditions: concurrent (cKP) and terminal knowledge of performance (tKP), and terminal knowledge of results (tKR). The highest potential for learning and consolidation was achieved with cKP in both groups. Remarkable was the presence of several subjects showing limited amounts of learning, independent of the provided feedback. The effect of reaching direction on visuomotor learning was studied in healthy young and elderly subjects, and stroke survivors. Repetitive reaching movements to five directions during an adaptation to a visuomotor rotation were performed. Significant higher amount of adaptation in the movement towards the contralateral part of the body compared to reaching towards other directions was observed for the young subjects. No significant differences in learning between directions was observed for the elderly, and only a higher deviation at the start of the learning phase for stroke survivors in one direction were found.
Urbanization altered atmospheric humidity diurnally and seasonally through ecohydrological processes in five urban agglomerations in China

The large-scale conversion of vegetated land to urban use leads to a significant reduction in evapotranspiration (ET) due to the lack of vegetation, which may aggravate urban dry island (UDI) effect. Analysis of diurnal and seasonal (e.g. growing season) variations in UDI can help us to better identify the role of ET in processes of UDI. We compared six-hourly weather observation data (1980–2017) from 140 paired urban-rural stations across a large climatic gradient in China to explore how near-surface atmospheric dryness changed both diurnally and seasonally, and its relationship with urbanization-associated ecohydrological processes. We showed that the difference in atmospheric dryness (i.e. UDI intensity) between urban and rural areas, as measured by specific humidity (Δq < 0), is more pronounced during the daytime and growing seasons. The nighttime urban wet island (UWI, Δq > 0) effect partially offset daily UDI effect, which has made the latter underestimated. Intensified nighttime urban heat island (UHI) reduced the diurnal temperature range (DTR) in cities and thus enhanced nighttime UWI effect from 2000 to 2010. However, after 2010, nighttime UWI effect weakened or disappeared, whereas nighttime UDI intensified in humid cities, resulting in a significant increase in daily UDI. Intensified UHI and UDI are often closely coupled (synchronous occurrence) through latent heat (LE) or ET processes, especially after 2010. Our results indicate that the conversion of vegetated lands to urban impervious surface, especially in humid regions, leads to the reduction in transportation during daytime and evaporation at night in urban cores, which alters the relationships between near-surface air temperature, atmospheric moisture, and ET. The present diurnal and seasonal variations in UDI were delineated in detail to explicate the patterns and interconnections of local urban climate and surface ecohydrological processes, which are critical for ecosystem services in urban landscape design.
Comparison of Modified Broström Procedure with or without Suture Tape Augmentation Technique for the Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability

Purpose To compare the clinical outcomes of the modified Broström repair (MBR) with or without suture tape augmentation (STA) for managing the chronic lateral ankle instability. Methods 72 patients with chronic lateral ankle instability treated at our hospital from January 2018 to July 2019 were included, with 37 patients receiving the MBR and 35 treated by the MBR with STA. The clinical efficacy of the two techniques was assessed in terms of VAS, AOFAS, and Karlsson scores and by physical examination in follow-ups. Results In all 72 patients, operations were successful, and the patients were followed up for 29.3 months on average (range, 24-43 months). There were no significant differences in preoperative pain, AOFAS, and Karlsson scores between the two groups. Compared with preoperative findings, all the functional scores were significantly improved in both groups 3 months after the operation and at the last follow-up. Three months after the operation, the STA group had significantly lower VAS and higher AOFAS scores than the isolated MBR group, suggesting that patients in the STA group suffered less pain and achieved better functional improvement. However, the VAS and functional scores at the last follow-up and the Karlsson score at 3 months postoperatively showed no intragroup difference in both groups. Conclusion MBR with or without STA could achieve good results for the treatment of chronic lateral ankle instability. Compared with the widely used MBR, combining with STA may be more effective in promoting rehabilitation in early term.
Propiedades Psicométricas de la Escala WISC-V en Escolares Rurales Chilenos

En Chile, la Escala Wechsler de Inteligencia para niños (WISC-R y WISC-III) se ha utilizado masivamente en población escolar urbana y rural, sin contar con estudios sobre su ajuste psicométrico en este último grupo. El presente estudio exploró las propiedades psicométricas (evidencia de validez de la estructura interna y consistencia interna) de WISC-V en escolares rurales. Se utilizó una muestra no probabilística intencionada de 160 estudiantes de entre 6 y 16 años de edad pertenecientes a 4 establecimientos educativos de la región del Maule y 9 de La Araucanía. Se testearon 3 modelos factoriales compuestos por 7, 10 y 15 subpruebas. Los resultados del análisis factorial confirmatorio muestran adecuados índices de ajuste en estos tres modelos, coherentemente con la propuesta teórica planteada por el autor de la escala y especialmente mejor para los modelos de 7 y 10 subpruebas primarias. Respecto de la confiabilidad, se observan adecuados niveles de consistencia interna que oscilan entre aceptables y buenos, en todas las subpruebas en que este indicador pudo ser calculado. A partir de estos resultados y para fines interpretativos se recomienda la utilización del modelo compuesto por 10 subpruebas primarias y del Coeficiente Intelectual Total (CIT) como estimador de funcionamiento cognitivo general en población rural chilena.
Dual cortical tunneling method for endoscopic forehead lift

Background Endoscopic forehead lift with cortical tunneling is an effective option for rejuvenation of the upper third of the face. Although it has been considered safe and reliable, with relatively consistent long-term results, relapse and weakening of adhesion have been common problems.Methods We suggest the dual-tunneling method for overcoming these limitations. A total of 100 patients aged 17 to 65 years underwent forehead lifting with cortical tunneling by the senior author from August 2016 to December 2017. The single-tunnel method was applied in one half of the patients and the dual-tunnel method in the other half. Bilateral brow positions were measured immediately following surgery and 6 months later.Results For all cases, cortical tunneling was done at the central incision and both paramedian incisions; therefore, three tunnels were used in the control group and six tunnels in the experimental group. In the single-tunnel group, relapse distances were 2.39±0.83 mm for the medial brow and 3.26±0.91 mm for the lateral brow (6 months postoperatively; n=100). The dual-tunnel group showed significantly smaller (P<0.001) relapse distances, with values of 1.69±0.46 mm and 2.17±0.59 mm for the medial and lateral brow, respectively (6 months postoperatively; n=100). The experimental group did not show an increase in complications.Conclusions The dual-tunneling method, designed to minimize the cheese-wiring effect, uses a triangular plane to avoid a focal fixation. The fixation also includes the periosteum to hold the forehead tissue in place, inducing stronger adhesion.
Intellectual capital and productivity of managers: The case study of hotel industry in Serbia

Intellectual capital is the part of intangible assets that affects value creation. Intellectual capital includes human capital, structural capital, and customer capital. The paper aims to investigate the relationship between intellectual capital and the managers' productivity in hotel companies. The research included 80 hotels with 3-stars, 4-stars, and 5-stars. Testing of research hypotheses is performed by application of multiple regression analysis and ANOVA test. The obtained results support the positive contribution of the components of intellectual capital on the productivity of managers in hotel companies. Also, the results show that there is no significant difference in the level of achieved manager's productivity between hotels of 3-stars, 4-stars, and 5-stars.
A Novel Mathematical Model of the Dynamics of COVID-19

The severity of the COVID-19 pandemic requires a better understanding of the spread SARS-COV2. As of December 2019, several mathematical models have been developed to explain how SARS-COV2 spreads within populations, and proposed models have evolved as more is learned about the dynamics of the outbreak. In this study, we propose a new mathematical model that includes demographic characteristics of the population. Social isolation and vaccination are also taken into account in the model. Besides transmission arising from intercourse with undiagnosed infected persons, we also consider transmission by contact with the exposed group. In this study, after the model is established, the basic reproduction number is calculated and local stability analysis of disease-free equilibrium is given. Finally, we give numerical simulations for the proposed model.
From Stepmonsters to the Family’s Saving Grace: Viewer Perceptions of Stepfamilies, Stepfathers and Stepmothers in Media

Research has shown that media portrayals greatly influence viewers’ beliefs, but few have studied stepfamily portrayals or how viewer demographics might impact what they notice. In this exploratory sequential mixed methods research, undergraduates reported perceptions of media portrayals of stepmothers, stepfathers and stepfamilies in 107 narratives. Those categories created a way to quantitatively distinguish between perceptions based on viewer sex and family type in the second study with 341 college student participants. The first study revealed that perceptions of stepparent portrayals in media might often align with stereotypes (e.g., stepmonsters) while also highlighting a mix of negative and positive perceptions and narratives about the depicted normalcy of stepfamilies. Study Two identified that sex or family type might slightly influence what some notice in television portrayals. However, media often portrays unambiguous views of stepfamilies, and these portrayals are noticed and remembered by viewers with only a slight impact from demographic differences.
Factors influencing the adoption of Cryptocurrency in Jordan: An application of the extended TRA model

Abstract Without the need for third-party authorization, cryptocurrency allows for anonymous, secure, rapid, and low-cost financial transactions. Cryptocurrencies are becoming more widely acknowledged around the world, but their uses remain limited. The present study investigated the factors that propel behavioral intention of individuals to use cryptocurrency in Jordan using the extended Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA) model. Survey questionnaires were sent to 1000 active Facebook users to gather data, and the entire 600 valid responses were evaluated utilizing Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). Subjected norm, perceived risk, perceived usefulness, perceived enjoyment, perceived ease of use and trust, all impacted intention to use cryptocurrency positively, while attitude towards cryptocurrency affected intention to use cryptocurrency. Additionally, attitude towards cryptocurrency was influenced by perceived risk, perceived usefulness, perceived enjoyment, and perceived ease of use; while facilitating condition did not show influence. Also, attitude towards cryptocurrency had a mediating influence on the association between subjected norm, perceived risk, perceived usefulness, perceived enjoyment, and intention to use cryptocurrency.