Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Morphometric Analysis of Prostate Zonal Anatomy After Transurethral Resection of Prostate and Holmium Laser Enucleation of Prostate Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging: A Pilot Study

Objective: The primary purpose was to compare the completeness of adenomectomy and zonal anatomy of prostate on magnetic resonance imaging prostate after transurethral resection of prostate and Holmium enucleation of prostate. The secondary purpose was to investigate the relationship between preoperative total prostate volume and postoperative transition zone and peripheral zone volume after both procedures. Material and methods: A retrospective review of all patients who underwent transurethral resection of prostate or Holmium enucleation of prostate over 3 years (2017-2020) and had at least 1 postoperative magnetic resonance imaging prostate was performed. Volume estimations of the prostate and individual zones were performed, and statistical comparisons were made to evaluate morphometric changes between the 2 procedures. Results: A total of 9 patients (mean age, 71.8 years) underwent transurethral resection of prostate and 12 patients (mean age, 66.9 years) underwent Holmium enucleation of prostate. The median pre-operative prostate volume in the Holmium enucleation of prostate group was higher than the transurethral resection of prostate group (101.5 g vs. 62 g; P = .102). However, there was a significant difference in the resected tissue weight favoring Holmium enucleation of prostate over transurethral resection of prostate (P value = .004). The postoperative transition zone and peripheral zone volume as calculated by magnetic resonance imaging remained relatively constant in both procedures. The peripheral zone volume on postoperative magnetic resonance imaging was found to be independent of transition zone volume even for very large-sized prostates. Conclusion: A well-performed transurethral resection of prostate or Holmium enucleation of prostate can nearly completely eliminate the transition zone volume, irrespective of the size of the prostate as confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging prostate. Additionally, the peripheral zone volume is consistent across the entire spectrum of the prostate size.
MAC Protocols for mmWave Communication: A Comparative Survey

With the increase in the number of connected devices, to facilitate more users with high-speed transfer rate and enormous bandwidth, millimeter-wave (mmWave) technology has become one of the promising research sectors in both industry and academia. Owing to the advancements in 5G communication, traditional physical (PHY) layer-based solutions are becoming obsolete. Resource allocation, interference management, anti-blockage, and deafness are crucial problems needing resolution for designing modern mmWave communication network architectures. Consequently, comparatively new approaches such as medium access control (MAC) protocol-based utilization can help meet the advancement requirements. A MAC layer accesses channels and prepares the data frames for transmission to all connected devices, which is even more significant in very high frequency bands, i.e., in the mmWave spectrum. Moreover, different MAC protocols have their unique limitations and characteristics. In this survey, to deal with the above challenges and address the limitations revolving around the MAC layers of mmWave communication systems, we investigated the existing state-of-the-art MAC protocols, related surveys, and solutions available for mmWave frequency. Moreover, we performed a categorized qualitative comparison of the state-of-the-art protocols and finally examined the probable approaches to alleviate the critical challenges in future research.
Integrating Transparency, Trust, and Acceptance: The Intelligent Systems Technology Acceptance Model (ISTAM)

Abstract Intelligent systems such as technologies related to artificial intelligence, robotics, machine learning, etc. open new insights into data and expand the concept of work in myriad domains. These technologies, while potentially useful, face high barriers to widespread adoption and acceptance by industries and citizens alike. The complexity and multi-dimensionality inherent in intelligent systems often renders traditional validation efforts (e.g., traceability analysis) impossible. In addition, contexts where predictions or computer-generated recommendations have real-world consequences, such as in medical prognosis, financial investing, or military applications introduce new risks and a host of moral and ethical concerns that can further hinder the widespread adoption of intelligent systems. Naturally, such reluctance by would-be users limits the potential of intelligent systems to solve real-world problems. This article reviews the challenges to technology acceptance through the lens of system transparency and user trust, and extends the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) structure with issues germane to intelligent systems. We examine several prospective transparency frameworks that could be adopted and used by Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) practitioners involved in systems development. Our intention is to assist practitioners in the design of more transparent systems with a specific eye towards enhancing trust and acceptance in intelligent systems. Further, as a result of our review, we suggest that the well-known TAM should be expanded in the context of intelligent systems to include trust and transparency as key elements of the model. Finally, we conclude with a research agenda that might offer empirical evidence showing how transparency might enhance acceptance and use of intelligent systems.
Multisection waveguide method for facet temperature reduction and improved reliability of high-power laser diodes

Catastrophic optical mirror damage (COMD) limits the output power and reliability of lasers diodes (LDs). Laser self heating together with facet absorption of output power cause the facet to reach a critical temperature (Tc), resulting in COMD and irreversible device failure. The self-heating of the laser contributes significantly to the facet temperature, but it has not been addressed so far. We implement a multi-section waveguide method where the heat is separated from reaching the output facet by exploiting an electrically isolated window. The laser waveguide is divided into two electrically isolated laser and transparent window sections. The laser section is pumped at high current levels to achieve laser output, and the passive waveguide is biased at low injection currents to obtain a transparent waveguide with negligible heat generation. Using this design, we demonstrate facet temperatures lower than the junction temperature of the laser even at high output power operation. While standard LDs show COMD failures, the multi-section waveguide LDs are COMD-free. Our technique and results provide a pathway for high-reliability LDs, which would find diverse applications in semiconductor lasers
Bayesian Item Response Theory Models With Flexible Generalized Logit Links

In educational and psychological research, the logit and probit links are often used to fit the binary item response data. The appropriateness and importance of the choice of links within the item response theory (IRT) framework has not been investigated yet. In this paper, we present a family of IRT models with generalized logit links, which include the traditional logistic and normal ogive models as special cases. This family of models are flexible enough not only to adjust the item characteristic curve tail probability by two shape parameters but also to allow us to fit the same link or different links to different items within the IRT model framework. In addition, the proposed models are implemented in the Stan software to sample from the posterior distributions. Using readily available Stan outputs, the four Bayesian model selection criteria are computed for guiding the choice of the links within the IRT model framework. Extensive simulation studies are conducted to examine the empirical performance of the proposed models and the model fittings in terms of “in-sample” and “out-of-sample” predictions based on the deviance. Finally, a detailed analysis of the real reading assessment data is carried out to illustrate the proposed methodology.
Association of Micronuclear Frequency with Dysplasia and Cytogenetic Changes (p53 Mutation and p16 Expression) in Oral Potentially Malignant Disorders

Aims: The present study evaluated the frequency of micronuclei in oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) and their association with the presence of dysplasia on cytology and biopsy as well as their association with p53 mutation and p16 expression. Cytological findings of dysplastic changes in OPMDs were compared to histological diagnoses. Material and Methods: This was a cross-sectional, observational, descriptive study. Scrape smears (n = 74) were collected from lesions in patients with OPMDs. Punch biopsy was collected in patients showing dysplastic changes. Tissue microarray for p53 mutation and p16 expression was performed using paraffin embedded blocks. Cases were classified into grades of dysplasia using both scrape smears and biopsy. Micronuclei frequency was calculated per 100 cells using scrape smears. Mann–Whitney U test was used for correlation of cytology and histology for grade of dysplasia as well as micronuclear frequency with p53 mutation and p16 expression. Results: Micronuclear frequency was found to be increased in patients with dysplasia. A significant association of micronuclear frequency with dysplastic changes was seen on cytology. Sensitivity of cytological evaluation was found to be 64.7%. The association of the micronuclear frequency of samples with p53 mutation and p16 expression was nearly significant (n = 28, P = 0.069 and 0.095, respectively). Conclusion: Micronuclear frequency can be a reliable marker of mutagenic change in OPMDs. Cytological assessment of micronuclei can serve as useful, non-invasive, and relatively inexpensive tool to predict cancerous changes in OPMDs.
Positioning Energy-Neutral Devices: Technological Status and Hybrid RF-Acoustic Experiments

The digital transformation is exciting the uptake of Internet-of-Things technologies, and raises the questions surrounding our knowledge of the positions of many of these things. A review of indoor localization technologies summarized in this paper shows that with conventional RF-based techniques, a significant challenge exists in terms of achieving good accuracy with a low power consumption at the device side. We present hybrid RF-acoustic approaches as an interesting alternative: the slow propagation speed of sound allows for accurate distance measurements, while RF can easily provide synchronization, data, and power to the devices. We explain how the combination of adequate signaling realizing a late wake-up of the devices with backscattering could position energy-neutral devices. Experiments in a real-life testbed confirmed the potential 10 cm-accuracy based on RF-harvested energy. Nonetheless, these also expose open challenges to be resolved in order to achieve accurate 3D positioning.
ENVIRONMENTAL RISKS OF PHARMACEUTICALS AND PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS IN WATER

Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products (PPCPs) are a diverse group of chemicals comprising all human and veterinary drugs, diagnost ics agents, nutraceuticals and other chemicals such as fragrances, sun-screen agen ts and excipients (inert ingredients used in PPCP manufacturing and formulation). The origins of PPCPs as „trace” environmental pollu tants results largely from their worldwide, continual usage by humans and domestics animals as a result of ingestion/excretion as well as the purposeful, dire ct disposal of expired or unwanted PPCPs. Compared with other pollutants little is kno wn regard to potential environmental risks. The aim of this study is to define the types of PPC Ps occurring in surface and ground water, to synthesize the environmental origin, dist ribution, effects and to outline the importance of establishing a national water monitor ing network for the early detection of PPCPs presence.
Understanding female condom use, acceptance, accessibility, awareness and knowledge among female public health students in a Nigerian university: A cross-sectional study

Background: The female condom is both a means of mechanical contraception and protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unwed pregnancies. The use and uptake of female condoms have been advocated as one of the safest ways to halt the risk of unplanned/unwanted pregnancies and STIs including HIV. Our study aimed to explore the knowledge, awareness, utilization, acceptance and accessibility of FC among female public health students in a Nigerian University. Methods: One hundred and ninety (190) female public health students took part in the study. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect the data between August and December 2019. Data analysis was carried out using SPSS version 23. Results: Overall percentage awareness of female condoms usage in this study was 52.0%. Less than a quarter (22.4%) reported having seen a pack of female condoms, while the remaining 77.6% of the participants reported having never seen a pack of female condoms. In addition, the majority (87.4%) of the respondents did not know whether a female condom interferes with sexual pleasure/sensation. The majority of the respondents (77.4%) concurred that utilizing a female condom implies that "I don't trust my partner". Concerning accessibility of the female condom, only 1.8% agreed that FC is easily accessible while more than half (54.2%) are uncertain of the accessibility. Conclusion: Our study revealed a low level of knowledge and utilization of female condoms, and also limited access to the female condom as well as unsatisfactory acceptance and suboptimal awareness level which were suggested by the overall percentages in the study.
Selenoprotein P-1 (SEPP1) as an Early Biomarker of Acute Kidney Injury in Patients Undergoing Cardiopulmonary Bypass

Background : Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) is a frequent, dangerous complication in patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) with oxidative stress playing a crucial role. In this pilot study we evaluated the possible role of the selenoprotein-p1 (SEPP1), a circulating, anti-oxidant selenium transporter, as a predictive biomarker of AKI in this population setting. Methods : Circulating SEPP1 was measured in the blood of 45 patients before surgery and at 4 h, 8 h and 12 h after CPB by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Results : SEPP1 increased from 69 [IQR 39–85] to 3263 [IQR 1886.2–5042.7] ng/mL ( p for trend < 0.0001). AKI occurred in 26.7% of patients. In these individuals, an earlier and more prominent increase in SEPP1 was observed at 4 h and 8 h, as compared with those not experiencing AKI (difference between trends p < 0.0001). Logistic regression analyses evidenced 4 h and 8 h SEPP1 as significantly associated with AKI (OR 1.035; 95% CI 1.002–1.068; p = 0.03 and 1.011; 95% CI 1.002–1.021; p = 0.02, respectively). ROC analyses displayed a remarkable discriminatory capacity of early SEPP1 measurements in identifying AKI (AUCs ranging from 0.682 to 0.854; p from 0.04 to < 0.0001). In addition, 12 h-SEPP1 showed diagnostic capacity to identify patients reaching a secondary composite endpoint including major adverse kidney events (MAKEs). Conclusions : Findings from this pilot, exploratory study suggest that early SEPP1 measurement after CPB may hold great potential for improving renal risk stratification in cardiac surgery patients. Further studies in wider and more heterogeneous cohorts are needed to generalize these findings and to evaluate a possible applicability in daily practice.
Iron bio-fortification and heavy metal/(loid)s contamination in cereals: successes, issues, and challenges

Abstract. Biofortification of micronutrients, particularly of the iron (Fe) in cereals, is a viable, attractive, and sustainable strategy to cope with malnutrition as cereals are the major staple diets, particularly in developing countries. Increased concentrations of heavy metal/(loid)s (HMs); i.e. cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), arsenic (As) etc. in agricultural soils is an increasing and serious challenge, posing severe health problems through food chain contamination. Accumulation of HMs in plants is challenging and contrasts to the development of biofortification strategies to combat micronutrient deficiencies. Agricultural biofortification strategies aim to increase plant uptake of mineral nutrients from soil and the translocation/storage of micronutrients to edible portions of cereal grains. However, it also means that any strategy to increase the uptake of Fe in plants may result in increased uptake of other toxic HMs. Therefore, the issue of HM contamination in cereals needs further understanding. This review describes the advancements in Fe biofortification strategies and the conflicting issue of HM accumulation in the grain of cereals.
RFID: A PRACTICAL CASE IN PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION

Cost reduction in RFID (radio frequency identification) technologies in companies with the development and improvement of information systems have fomented new uses of these technologies in applications not only on ticketing, purchasing, and inventory management, but also out of these scenarios. From a business point of view, the facilities to integrate in real-time this information technology (IT) with ERP Systems, make it optimum in environment orientated services. In public organizations where the level of service is crucial, RFID technology is an important tool in search of excellence in services. In this work, after describing an overview of this technology and its applications, we will present the methodology followed by a real case study about the implementation of RFID in a public administration. Previous studies will be presented focusing on the capacity and opportunity of the technology and the realized prototypes, comparison of the different types of RFID tags, and finally, the implementation to control data processing equipment will be described. The developed project consists of taking an inventory of computers, PDAs and mobiles in a public organization as a token of the use of Information Technologies in the public services: Health, Education and Public Works. The methodologies employed and results obtained will be analyzed to decide other future applications.
Unleashing frugal innovation in private higher education institutions via intellectual capital and Information technology capability: a systematic literature review

Background: Given the persistent challenges to the higher education business model, private higher education institutions (PHEIs) are exploring myriad ways to increase enrolment and income, while aggressively managing spending. Many PHEIs are facing financial distress and struggling because of decreasing budgets and declining revenue. Thus, carving unique strategies that direct the institution to focus on its core competencies, making additional budget cuts without compromising quality, developing new revenue streams, embracing new technology, and offering affordable programs, will ultimately lead to financial success. Frugal innovation (FI) can shed light on these challenges. Methods: This paper presents a systematic literature review to investigate and analyse prior research that focused on FI within the sphere of intellectual capital (IC) and information technology capabilities (ITC) research, and their relationships in PHEIs. Transfield’s five phases were employed to extract journal articles published over a thirty-year period (1990 to 2020) from major online databases using keyword searches. Although an initial search generated 76,025 papers, the search for IC and FI yielded 41 papers, and finally only two papers were selected as they clearly related IC with FI. Results: There was a research gap in the literature published from 1990 to 2020 regarding IC applications to achieve FI. This work revealed that IC and ITC research for FI in PHEI remain insufficiently explored. Conclusions: Further research is required on the evaluation model of IC, ITC and FI, methodologies, empirical analysis, and the development of measurement metrics. A limitation to this study is the number of keywords selected.
Factors Influencing the Implementation of Integrated Financial Management Information Systems: Study Focus on Bangladesh

Background of the study: Integrated Financial Management Information Systems (IFMIS) can help improve public sector management by giving managers real-time financial data to make better decisions. The Bangladeshi Public Service is currently busy with the implementation of an IFMIS. However, implementing IFMIS such a project has proved to be a demanding undertaking and has not been met with resounding success. Objectives of the research: The research is primarily focused to identify the factors influencing the implementation of IFMIS in Bangladesh. Along aside, this paper assesses the influence of technical capacity of staff on implementation of IFMIS in Bangladesh’s public institutions and staff resistance on the deployment of IFMIS. Methodology of the research: The paper draws from two theories in investigating the issues of IFMIS adoption for public financial management. The theories include System Theory and Rodger’s Theory. A simple Random sampling technique is used to collect the information from targeted respondents with a structured questionnaire. Around 80 respondents were selectively targeted. Findings of the research: One of the Major findings of the study is that the governments have a strategic plan that recognizes political, administrative, and capacity limits that were found to be supported by respondents. The study indicates that the government has revised the wage structure to compete with the private sector and to prevent skilled employee turnover. Research shows that employees have the necessary skills and credentials to implement IFMIS. Furthermore, the study looked at how IFMIS deployment is affected by capacity and abilities. Contributions of the research: The results revealed a significant connection between capacity and skills and IFMIS deployment. However, it is found that the infrastructure is central concern for successful IFMIS implementation. Moreover, the government's interaction with the external consultants is seen to be indecisive. Finally, the study recommends that government should uphold the strategic plan that identifies all the constraints and should have detail plan for maintaining its education system's alignment with information technology.