Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Single incision-two port laparoscopic tubal ligation versus conventional three port laparoscopic tubal ligation: A prospective comparative study

Background/Aim: Most women who have completed childbearing request tubal ligation, as it is an effective and irreversible form of contraception. Single incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) which is currently standard in most surgical specialties, eliminates multiple port incisions and provides faster recovery with better cosmesis. However, there is less data about single incision laparoscopic bilateral tubal ligation. We aimed to compare the results of single-incision-two port laparoscopic tubal ligation and conventional three port laparoscopic tubal ligation. Methods: Patients who desired tubal ligation procedure as a contraceptive method were randomly allocated to two groups as single-incision-two port laparoscopic tubal ligation (Group 1) and conventional three port laparoscopic tubal ligation (Group 2) between April 2015 to January 2020 in the Obstetrics and Gynecology clinics of two university hospitals. A prospective comparative study was conducted, and sixty patients were included in each group, which were compared in terms of operation time, blood loss, length of hospital stay, complications, port site hernia, postoperative pain score, conversion rate, cosmesis and failure of sterilization. Results: There was no need to convert to open surgery in either group. Average blood loss was similar between the groups (107.6 ml vs 98.4 ml, P=0.14). Operating time was significantly longer in group 2 compared to group 1 (38 minutes vs. 26 minutes, P=0.02). Higher pain scores were observed in group 2 compared to group 1 at the 24th postoperative hour (2.21 vs 3.82, P=0.012). Patients in group 1 were more satisfied with the single incision in the umbilicus based on cosmetic outcome scores (4.88 vs 3.16, P=0.018). There were no reported intraoperative complications in either group. No port site hernias and failure of sterilization were observed in any of the patients. All patients were followed up for a mean of 19 months (range: 12–60 months). Conclusion: Single incision two port laparoscopic tubal ligation does not increase the risk of complications and appears safe. It provides better cosmetic outcomes and lower pain scores compared to conventional laparoscopy.
Cloud computing: a walk through in models, challenges, and energy solutions

The paradigm of cloud computing in recent times has engrossed a lot of working populace in its service stack offerings. This considerable rise of human traffic landing onto cloud platform for service extraction has consequently led to exponential rise in energy consumption during dynamic and heterogeneous workload situations encompassing huge cloud infrastructure in form of CPU, Hard Disks, network devices etc. The energy released not only poses costs on its stakeholders but is affecting the environment due to rise in carbon footprints. As per available stats [1], the total power consumption of cloud has significantly arisen from 632 billion kilowatt hours in year 2007 to 163 billion kilowatt hours in 2020 which is adequate to leave a devastating effect on environment. Though research is being carried out in this direction, still efficacious measures are far away from its pragmatic implementations. Therefore, the research study conducted here discusses about existing solutions in the direction of energy management in cloud computing. The latter half of paper presents abrief discussion on gaps and future directions.
POSSIBILITIES OF USING THE TRANSCRANIAL MAGNETIC STIMULATION METHOD IN THE TREATMENT OF CHRONIC PAIN SYNDROMES

Национальный медицинский исследовательский центр им. В. А. Алмазова, Научный центр международного уровня «Персонализированная медицина», Санкт-Петербург, e-mail: varya.krasnikova. 93@mail.ru Транскраниальная магнитная стимуляция (ТМС) современный перспективный метод в лечении многих труднокурабельных заболеваний, в том числе хронических болевых синдромов различной этиологии. Принцип ТМС заключается в стимуляции нервной ткани за счет деполяризации мембраны нейрона индуцированным магнитным полем, в результате чего возникает потенциал действия и распространяется по проводящим путям. Данная методика воздействует на патогенетические механизмы развития хронической боли за счет модуляции процессов нейропластичности, активизирующего и тормозного влияния на возбудимость коры головного мозга, индукции нейрогенеза и синаптогенеза. В данной статье проведен обзор 47 современных отечественных и зарубежных оригинальных статей по указанной проблематике и представлены современные данные об эффективности ТМС в лечении мигрени, фибромиалгии, боли при периферической нейропатии, поражении нервных корешков, фармакорезистентной хронической боли и ГБН, а также рассмотрены перспективы ее применения в практической медицине. Исследования показывают, что ТМС является безопасным методом немедикаментозного лечения хронического болевого синдрома, который может значительно улучшить качество жизни пациента, снизить выраженность боли, расширить привычные схемы консервативной терапии в практике врача. Ключевые слова: хронический болевой синдром; транскраниальная магнитная стимуляция; нейропластичность.
CONTROL OF ADULT AND LARVAL AEDES ALBOPICTUS WITH ATTRACTIVE TOXIC SUGAR BAITS (ACTIVE INGREDIENT: CINNAMON-SESAME OIL) IN NORTHEASTERN FLORIDA

Because traditional methods of mosquito control using insecticides has produced resistance, new methods that are environmentally friendly, sustainable and cost effective have been sought. One method, attractive toxic sugar baits (ATSB), uses the biological requirements, ecology, and behavior of mosquitoes to attract and kill them. In this study, the efficacy of a new ATSB active ingredient, microencapsulated cinnamon oil-plus-sesame oil, was tested in the laboratory and field against Aedes albopictus (Skuse) and the effect on non-target organisms was evaluated. The average mortality among groups of 20 third instar larvae after exposure to microencapsulated cinnamon-sesame oil ATSB in the laboratory for 48 h was high. Mortality at 10% and 1% ATSB concentration was 95.8% and 90.0% respectively and began to drop off (to 65%) at 0.1%. After application of the ATSB in the field, on day 11 of the Traore et al.: Attractive toxic sugar bait against mosquitoes 21 study, the adult Ae. albopictus populations at the experimental site dropped significantly compared to pre-treatment levels and to the untreated control population. The differences between the control and the treated sites remained significant until the end of the study period on day 28. If used in accordance with label instructions and applied on non-flowering green vegetation, the potential impact on non-target populations was negligible with the exception of non-biting midges (Chironomidae). The synergistic effect of the attracting and killing adult mosquitoes as well as wash-off into part of the breeding sites with larvicidal cinnamon oil-plus-sesame oil product likely explains the high mortality of this ATSB formulation.
Investigation of chemical transformations by NMR and GPC during the laboratory aging of Arabian asphalt

In this work, the chemical properties of a commercial grade Saudi Arabian asphalt procured from Ras Tanura refinery were evaluated. The rolling thin film oven (RTFO), termed as short-term aging, and pressurized aging vessel (PAV), termed as long-term aging, tests were used to simulate the laboratory aging of this asphalt. It was found that PAV has more severe effects on the chemical properties of asphalt than RTFO method. The Corbett fractionation procedure was used to separate fresh and aged asphalts into four generic fractions namely; asphaltenes, polar aromatics, naphthene aromatics, and saturates and various analytical techniques were applied to evaluate the chemical changes that occurred during the aging processes. High pressure-gel permeation chromatography (HP-GPC) molecular weight and size distributions suggested that molecular rearrangement occurs predominantly on aging. Carbon and proton NMR measurements of generic fractions showed that isomerization, internal cross-linking, and dehydrogenation were the main chemical reactions of hydrocarbon groups following aging. Coupling the results from the GPC and NMR techniques have led to some interesting information concerning the chemical reaction types during the aging processes. Significant differences were observed between the structure and composition of fresh and aged generic fractions of Ras Tanura asphalt. q 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
CRLHLWA USING MUSHROOM-LIKE STRUCTURES FOR IMPROVED RADIATION PERFORMANCES

A composite right/left-handed (CRLH) leaky wave antenna (LWA) using double mushroomlike structures is proposed. With a proper arrangement of the left-handed structures, desirable crosspolarization performance in two orthogonal planes can be obtained based on the differential excitation principle. The CRLH performance of the cascaded LWA is demonstrated, and the improved radiation performance is clarified. Measured results indicate that the proposed antenna operates in 9.7–16.4 GHz with a beam scanning range from −71◦ to +31◦. The cross-polarization levels are less than −30 dB and −20 dB in the beam scanning plane and non-beam-scanning plane, respectively.
Exploring the Benefits of an Arts-Based Mindfulness Group Intervention for Teachers, University Students, and Women Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence

Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) teach practices that encourage the development of present moment awareness through paying attention on purpose and non-judgmentally to one’s experiences, feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. We describe three graduate student research thesis projects that explored the suitability and benefits of an arts-based MBI with three different populations; teachers, university students, and women survivors of intimate partner violence. These three populations have been identified as experiencing heightened levels of stress and in need of resilience building supports. All three projects were qualitative pilot studies that explored whether participants would experience increased understanding and development of mindfulness-based skills, and improved coping with stress through participating in the program. Pre- and post-MBI group interviews were conducted, and interview data was analyzed using thematic analysis. Across the three projects, the student researchers found self-reported benefits with no adverse effects. Developing mindfulness-based skills helped the participants to build their self-awareness/understanding which in turn helped to develop emotion regulation. This is consistent with our understanding of how MBIs can build people’s capacity to make conscious choices about their feelings rather than reacting to emotional triggers. Improved coping with stress was also reported in all three projects. Developing present-moment awareness and mindfulness can help people appreciate life’s moments, and cope better with daily life stressors. Also important was the growth of self-compassion and acceptance. The results are promising and indicate that further exploration with these populations is warranted. Future research could explore an arts-based approach to facilitating mindfulness with larger numbers of participants and using control and/or comparison groups.
SmartFit: Smartphone Application for Garment Fit Detection

The apparel e-commerce industry is growing day by day. In recent times, consumers are particularly interested in an easy and time-saving way of online apparel shopping. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has generated more need for an effective and convenient online shopping solution for consumers. However, online shopping, particularly online apparel shopping, has several challenges for consumers. These issues include sizing, fit, return, and cost concerns. Especially, the fit issue is one of the cardinal factors causing hesitance and drawback in online apparel purchases. The conventional method of clothing fit detection based on body shapes relies upon manual body measurements. Since no convenient and easy-to-use method has been proposed for body shape detection, we propose an interactive smartphone application, “SmartFit”, that will provide the optimal fitting clothing recommendation to the consumer by detecting their body shape. This optimal recommendation is provided by using image processing and machine learning that are solely dependent on smartphone images. Our preliminary assessment of the developed model shows an accuracy of 87.50% for body shape detection, producing a promising solution to the fit detection problem persisting in the digital apparel market.
Differential Quadrature Method for Vibration Analysis of Prestressed Beams

This paper investigates natural frequencies of free transverse vibrations of prestressed beams, and the governing equations and natural frequencies of the free vibration in related literatures are discussed and corrected. The differential quadrature methods (DQ) are applied directly to the corrected governing equations to get the the values of natural frequency numerically. Under the simple supported boundary conditions, the natural frequencies of model beam are numerically studied, and the physical parameters of the beam are analyzed respectively. The numerical results show that the natural frequency values increase with the growth of concrete strength and eccentricity of prestressed steels. But with the increase of the span length of beam and values of original prestressing force, the natural frequency values decrease.
Liquid-gas phase transition of thermal nuclear matter and the in-medium balance between nuclear attraction and repulsion

Properties of the liquid-gas (LG) phase transition of thermal nuclear matter are investigated within the relativistic Hartree-Fock (RHF) theory, focusing on the role played by the in-medium balance between nuclear attraction and repulsion. Applying the RHF Lagrangian PKA1, rather different critical properties and LG phase diagrams are obtained in contrast to the other popular relativistic Lagrangians. Aiming at such notable model deviations, a series of testing parametrizations $x{\ensuremath{\kappa}}_{\ensuremath{\rho}}$ (${\ensuremath{\kappa}}_{\ensuremath{\rho}}$ being the $\ensuremath{\rho}$-tensor coupling strength) are proposed to bridge PKA1 and other popular Lagrangians. Along the systematics from PKA1 to the $x{\ensuremath{\kappa}}_{\ensuremath{\rho}}$ series and further to other popular Lagrangians, it is illustrated that the in-medium balance of nuclear attraction and repulsion, manifested as various modeling of the nuclear in-medium effects, is essential for the van der Waals-like behaviors of thermal nuclear matter, in which the residual nuclear in-medium effects deduced from the dominant attractive and repulsive channels play a significant role. Our study paves a way to model the in-medium nuclear interactions from the thermal statistic aspects of nuclear systems, e.g., referring to the critical temperature from future delicate experiments.
Simultaneously Enhanced Stability and Selectivity for Propene Epoxidation with H2 and O2 on Au Catalysts Supported on Nano-Crystalline Mesoporous TS-1

It is a challenging task to design efficient Au/Ti-containing catalysts for propene epoxidation with H2 and O2 that simultaneously achieve high catalytic stability and selectivity to propylene oxide (PO). This contribution first describes the synthesis of a nanocrystalline mesoporous titanium silicalite-1 (MTS-1) by dry-gel conversion that employs cheap triblock copolymers as template. Compared with TS-1, MTS-1 has a shortened reactant/product diffusion length as a result of smaller crystal size (<100 nm) and the presence of mesopores (ca. 3 nm). Surprisingly, this designed catalyst shows simultaneously improved PO selectivity over 95% as well as stability over 40 h, much better than the traditional Au/TS-1 catalyst. Moreover, the intrinsic reason for the enhanced performance is elucidated. The better mass transfer ability together with higher hydrophobicity of Au/MTS-1 results in lower coke weight and absence of refractory aromatic coke. In this way, the side reactions and deactivation caused by blocking.
A DC Microgrid System for Powering Remote Areas

DC microgrid has been gaining popularity as solution as a more efficient and simpler power system especially for remote areas, where the main grid has yet to be built. This paper proposes a DC microgrid system based on renewable energy sources that employs decentralized control and without communication between one grid point and another. It can be deployed as an individual isolated unit or to form an expandable DC microgrid through DC bus for better reliability and efficiency. The key element of the proposed system is the power conditioner system (PCS) that works as an interface between energy sources, storage system, and load. PCS consists of modular power electronics devices and a power management unit, which controls power delivery to the AC load and the grid as well as the storage system charging and discharging sequence. Prototypes with 3 kWp solar PV and 13.8 kWh energy storage were developed and adopt a pole-mounted structure for ease of transportation and installation that are important in remote areas. This paper presents measurement results under several conditions of the developed prototypes. The evaluation shows promising results and a solid basis for electrification in remote areas.
Virtual Reality and Haptic Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Training Approaches: A Review

Cardiac arrest is a leading cause of death worldwide preventable with timely application of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The American Heart Association CPR guidelines recently have an increased focus on quality of consistent chest compressions and highlighted the need for frequent refresher courses. Literature has shown that standard training manikins do not accurately represent human torso compression forces. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies can simulate or enhance training environments and have shown promise for CPR training. Haptics is the touch element of virtual experiences and the literature has suggested that haptics can produce higher fidelity force feedback over standard training manikins. This review aims to determine the state of research of virtual and AR and haptic-enabled CPR training systems. VR approaches examined feedback, visual kinesthetic manipulation, and gamification. Systems using AR have examined the potential benefits of real-time feedback and quick reference. Haptic approaches have examined different mechanisms and design principles for reproducing realistic human CPR. Hybrid systems explore collaborative training and methods for immersion. These systems offer the potential for immersive training and realistic haptic rendering. However, to reach widespread adoption they must overcome the limitations of cost and mechanical complexity.
Emerging diseases in international trade in embryos

A significant change in cattle production and germplasm exchange has occurred over the past 50 years. The growth of artificial reproductive technologies and their broad implementation has become commonplace. The production and subsequent import and export of semen and embryos throughout the world has increased significantly. The embryo transfer industry has reached a new record of growth, with approximately 1.5 million transferrable bovine embryos collected and/or produced in 2018. Over 1 million of these embryos were produced in vitro. The increased production of in vitro-produced embryos leads to greater opportunities involving international trade. However, further research concerning emerging pathogens is imperative to ensure the efficacy and safety of the embryo transfer industry. Appropriate biosecurity protocols, including reliable testing methodology and effective embryo processing procedures, are key in preventing disease due to emerging and re-emerging pathogens that can be transmitted via embryo transfer.
Structural Defects in Heteroepitaxial and Homoepitaxial GaN

The microstructure and characteristic defects of heteroepitaxial GaN films grown on sapphire using molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) and metal-organic-chemical-vapor-deposition (MOCVD) methods and of homoepitaxial GaN grown on bulk substrates are described based on transmission electron microscopy (TEM), x-ray diffraction, and cathodoluminescence (CL) studies. The difference in arrangement of dislocations along grain boundaries and die influence of buffer layers on the quality of epitaxial films is described. The structural quality of GaN epilayers is compared to diat of bulk GaN crystals grown from dilute solution of atomic nitrogen in liquid gallium. The full width at half maximum (FWHM) of the x-ray rocking curves for these crystals was in the range of 20–30 arc sec, whereas for the heteroepitaxially grown GaN the FWHM was in the range of 5–20 arc min. Homoepitaxial MBE grown films had FWHMs of about 40 arc sec. The best film quality was obtained for homoepitaxial films grown using MOCVD; these samples were almost free from extended defects. For the bulk GaN crystals a substantial difference in crystal perfection was observed for the opposite sides of the plates shaped normal to the c direction. On one side the surface was almost atomically flat, and the underlying material was free of any extended structural defects, while the other side was rough, with a high density of planar defects. This difference was related to the polarity of the crystal. A large difference in crystal stoichiometry was also observed within different sublayers of the crystals. Based on convergent beam electron diffraction and cathodoluminescence, it is proposed that Ga N antisite defects are related to the yellow luminescence observed in these crystals.
APLIKASI MIP ( MOLECULARLY IMPRINTED POLYMER ) DENGAN METANOL SEBAGAI EKSTRAKTAN TEMPLATE DALAM SINTESISNYA UNTUK PENENTUAN KADAR KAFEIN

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui karakter kafein-MIP, mengetahui kondisi optimum adsorpsi pada kafein-MIP, serta mengetahui perbandingan persentase kafein dalam sampel yang terekstrak pada NIP dan kafein-MIP. Kafein-MIP disintesis dengan cara mencampurkan MAA sebagai monomer, EDMA agen pengikat silang, benzoil peroksida (dalam kloroform) sebagai inisiator, dan kafein (dalam kloroform) sebagai template dengan metode polimerisasi ruah, kemudian diekstrasi dengan Soxhlet. Hasil yang diperoleh berupa padatan polimer yang berwarna putih dengan struktur yang keras. Spektrum FTIR menunjukkan kafein-MIP metanol dan campuran masih terdapat gugus amina. Hasil analisis SEM masih terdapat unsur nitrogen sebesar 14,58% b/b untuk kafein-MIP metanol dan 14,75% b/b untuk kafein-MIP campuran yang berarti kafein pada kafein-MIP belum terekstrak seluruhnya. Persentase kafein teradsorpi pada NIP, kafein-MIP metanol, dan kafein-MIP campuran sebesar 9,59% b/v, 88,4% b/v dan 84,76 % b/v.
An assessment of outcome criteria associated with the implementation of TQM in a higher education institution in Ghana

Abstract The purpose of the paper was to identify quality dimensions through which the service quality performance concerning TQM implementation in a Higher Education context could be measured from external customers’ perspectives. The paper opted for a research survey with an instrument developed on a 5-point Likert-scale of five quality dimensions identified with 26 items. A total of 434 questionnaires were administered and 364 questionnaires were returned, of which 361 were usable given a response rate of 83.9%. Students and Alumni respondents expected more on the human and non-human elements of service delivery, while employers’ expectations were mostly on Core Services. However, all the respondents’ levels of satisfaction were found to be generally below their expectations. The dimensions that influenced the customers’ views and the existing service gaps were determined. The study was limited to three selected subgroups of the Institution’s customers. The findings may inform management to improve service performance.