Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Exploring the tumour microenvironment with non-invasive Magnetic Resonance Imaging techniques

This thesis comprises development and application of several MRI techniques to improve our understanding of tumour growth, drug distribution, and drug effect using pre-clinical tumour models in mice. In the first part of the thesis, a novel high molecular weight contrast agent, HPG-GdF is introduced. This molecule is a hyperbranched polyglycerol labeled with an MRI contrast agent (Gd-DOTA) as well as a fluorescent tag. After injecting the agent into mice within an MRI scanner, contrast-agent kinetics were quantified using a two-parameter linear model and validated with quantitative immunohistochemistry via direct fluorescence imaging of HPG-GdF. HPG-GdF was used to assess whether vascular function plays a role in how a chemotherapy (Herceptin) distributes within a tumour. Tumour vessel permeability and fractional plasma volume were quantified using the HPG-GdF and no relationship was found between vascular function and presence of drug. HPG-GdF was then applied to show that Avastin (an antiangiogenic agent) decreased vessel permeability in tumours. Using histological methods, a dramatic reduction in hypoxia (oxygen deficiency in tissues) was observed in treated tumours. Unfortunately, existing MRI methods to evaluate oxygenation were time-intensive and lacked sensitivity. In the second part of this thesis, we introduce, develop, validate, and apply a new method to assess tumour oxygenation using MRI. Oxygen (O2) is a paramagnetic molecule that shortens the longitudinal relaxation time (T1) of protons in MRI. This subtle effect has been widely reported in the literature but its applications in cancer have been limited. Our technique dynamic oxygen-enhanced MRI (dOE-MRI) uses T1W signal intensity images acquired during a cycling gas challenge (air or oxygen) and independent component analysis
Patient and public involvement in a study of multimedia clinical trial information for children, young people and families

There is increasing recognition of the need to involve the public in health research, but accounts of how best to achieve this are scarce. This article describes public involvement in the TRials Engagement in Children and Adolescents (TRECA) study, which is developing and evaluating multimedia information resources to inform children, young people and their familes about clinical trials. A dedicated group of young people with long-term health conditions and their parents met regularly throughout the study; further involvement was sought when specific input was required. Review of formal impact records and informal discussions highlighted how public involvement can positively influence research practice and the people involved. By detailing the methods of involvement used, this work also provides guidance for successfully implementing public involvement in research, and highlights challenges that should be considered in future research projects.
Bioactivity of Mycoendophytes Isolated from Medicinal Plants Growing in Different Geographical Egyptian Habitats

: Fifty-four endophytic fungal species were isolated from 10 medicinal plants growing on different geographical Egyptian habitats; 48 of them were morphologically identified, at least to genus level and all belonged to ascomycetes. Ethanolic extracts of 49 isolates were screened for their antibacterial activities against three Gram-positive and three Gram-negative bacteria; they were also screened for their antifungal activities against Candida albicans and Fusarium solani. Twenty-six isolates showed antibacterial activities at least against one tested bacterial strain and seven isolates showed antibacterial activities against both Gram-negative and -positive bacteria. Moreover, cytotoxicity of these extracts were tested against one normal cell line MRC-5 and another cancer cell line MCF-7 using MTT assay. It was found that a group of seven isolates exerted a reduced toxicity towards the normal cell line, but had a higher toxic effect on the cancer cell line. These isolates represent a promising source for anticancer compounds with low cytotoxicity against the normal cell lines.
Factors Associated With Disability Self-Disclosure to Their Professors Among College Students With Disabilities

This study examined factors associated with disability disclosure to professors among students with disabilities (n = 289) who either registered or did not register with disability support services (DSS) in postsecondary education from six public colleges and universities located in a Mid-Atlantic U.S. state. Past experience in requesting accommodations and perceptions of faculty’s willingness to provide accommodations were correlated with willingness to disclose disability. Multiple regression results revealed that gender, grade level, and past experience in requesting accommodations predicted students’ willingness to disclose their disabilities. Implications for counselors and transition educators working with students with disabilities are discussed, along with recommendations for future research.
APPLICATION OF THE ELECTRICAL IMPEDANCE SPECTROMETRY FOR MONITORING WATER FLOW IN UNSATURATED SOIL

Aim of paper The aim of research was to determine the sensitivity of the impedance spectrometry method (EIS) to changes in electrical resistance of soil caused by water infiltration. Materials and methods Two types of mineral soil were considered in the research: fine sand and coarse silty sand. The research was to determine basic geotechnical properties of both soils (filtration coefficient, soil-water characteristic curve) and water infiltration tests in a vertical soil column. These tests included measuring changes in electrical resistance of soil medium, which were compared with observations of the location of the wetting front and numerical calculations of water flow through the soil. Infiltration tests were run for three soil samples. The first was a sample of medium sand, the second coarse silty sand, and the third medium sand in the lower part and coarse silty sand in the upper part. Results and conclusions The results of tests of electrical resistance of soils subjected to infiltration process in vertical column confirmed the significant impact of water in soil medium on its electrical conductivity. It has been shown that a change in soil moisture from an air-dry state to full saturation leads to a reduction of soil resistance by almost three orders of magnitude.
A RANDOMIZED TRIAL COMPARING GENDER SPECIFIC WITH GENDER NON SPECIFIC KNEE ARTHROPLASTY IMPLANTS

Introduction We compared standard NexGen Cruciate substituting-flex prosthesis with gender-specific NexGen Cruciate substituting flex prosthesis in patients undergoing bilateral total knee arthroplasty with regard to Coverage of the bone by femoral component, Clinical outcome, Radiographic outcome, Survival and complication rates, with special emphasis on patellofemoral complications. Material & Methods 30 female patients with osteo-arthritis of the knees with similar deformity and preoperative range of motion were randomized to have one knee replaced with a gender non-specific Nexgen Cruciate substituting (Zimmer) prosthesis and the other with Gender Cruciate substituting (Zimmer) prosthesis. Follow-up clinical evaluation was done at 6, and 12 months postoperatively and then at yearly interval using “Knee Society” Recommendations. Clinical assessment of the patellofemoral joint of the replaced knees was done with the help of “Hospital for Special Surgery” patellar scoring system. The overall patient satisfaction after surgery was evaluated with use of the British Orthopaedic Association patient satisfaction score. Results The mean age was 63.8 years (range 49–76 years). 14 patients had standard NexGen Cruciate substituting-flex gender knee prosthesis on right side and 16 patients had on left side. On the other sides, standard NexGen Cruciate substituting-flex prosthesis implant was used. Preop Clinical findings were similar in both groups. The average Preop range of motion was identical in both the groups. The average follow up was 2.5 years (2–3.8 years). The mean post-operative Knee Society knee scores were 88,90,94, (70 to 100) and 87,92, 93 (70 to 100) points and the function scores were 83,85,88 (60 to 100) and 84.86. 88 (60 to 100) points for the standard implants and the gender-specific designs, respectively at 6 months, 1 year and 2 year follow up. Mean improvement in patella score was 65, 71.1 and 73.3 points in Gender group at the end of 6 month, 1 yr and 2 yr respectively as compared to 65.6, 71.1 and 72.2 in Nexgen group. No patient had malpositioning of components or radiolucencies at the end of 2 year follow up. Mean improvement in BOA functional score was 20.6, 22.6 and 24.1 points in Gender group at the end of 6 months, 1 year and 2 year respectively as compared to 20.7, 21.8 and 23.2 in Nexgen group. In those with a standard prosthesis, the femoral component was closely matched in 30 knees, overhung in 17 and undercovered the bone in 13. In those with a gender-specific prosthesis, it was closely matched in 45 knees and undercovered the bone in 15. Conclusion Although gender specific knee matched the femoral anatomy of Indian female knees better than the standard nexgen Knee, we found no significant differences between the two groups with regard to the clinical and radiological results, patient satisfaction or complication rate.
Examining the Generalization of a Combined Independent and Interdependent Group Contingency for Students With Emotional and Behavioral Disorders

Using an ABAB withdrawal design, the study evaluated the direct and generalized effects of a combined independent and interdependent group contingency on the engagement and disruptive behavior of two groups of students enrolled in an alternative school serving students with emotional and behavioral disorders. Class 1 included seven middle school students and Class 2 included eight high school students. For both classes, systematic direct observation behavior data were collected both in the targeted class period and a second class period identified by teachers as also having high rates of inappropriate behavior. Following baseline, the group contingency was introduced in the targeted period only and then withdrawn before being re-introduced. Visual analysis indicates that implementation of the group contingency led to improvements in classroom behavior in the targeted class period for both groups of students. Also, improvements in student behavior were observed in secondary settings that shared common environmental variables that may have promoted generalization. Discussion focuses on implications for practice and future research examining methods for promoting generalization of behavior change.
Salinity types and level-based effects on the growth, physiology and nutrient contents of maize (Zea mays)

Salinity is a devastating problem of arid and semi-arid climatic regions with uneven salt accumulation which hinders growth and development of crops. The deleterious effects of salinity mainly depend on level and source of salinity. We hypothesized that types of sodium salt (NaCl and Na2SO4) might cause variable toxicity in maize (Zea mays L.) plants. The objective of the present study was to compare the effect of different types of sodium salt (NaCl and Na2SO4), each at EC 5 and 10 dS m–1 on growth, physiology and nutrient contents of maize plant grown in earthen pots under wire house conditions. Results revealed toxic effects of salt stress on seed germination, root and shoot growth and biomass. Maize physiology in terms of sub-stomatal CO2 index, chlorophyll and relative water contents, photosynthetic and transpiration rate also reduced under salt stress. Among the types of salt and levels of salinity, NaCl applied at the rate of 10 dS m–1 caused the highest reduction in seed germination, growth and physiology due to high accumulation of Na and Cl ions whereas low in K ion in maize plant tissues. Based on the findings, we do conclude that NaCl applied at the rate of 10 dS m–1 has more negative impact on maize growth and nutrient acquisition than Na2SO4 at same level of salinity.
Arabic Language Test in the Perspective of Competency-Based Curriculum for Students of Madrasah Aliyah Negeri 3 Malang

The purpose of this research is to describe the items of the final Arabic language test questions for students of the Government Islamic Secondary School 3 Malang in the light of the proficiency based curriculum (KBK). This research is the type of desk research on the descriptive analytical approach qualitative approach. The data sources in this research are in the form of Arabic language question documents for the final school exam in the curriculum based on proficiency. The data were collected in the manner of documents and interviews. The results of this research are in harmony between the items of the final Arabic language test questions for students of the Madrasah Aliyah 3 Malang in the academic year 2011/2012 with the curriculum on the basis of competence, which contains: Reading skill questions are also suited to normative and basic competence, although these items do not contain items of phonics questions in language questions and listening, speaking and writing items in language skills questions.
Coordinating the city: platforms as flexible spatial arrangements

ABSTRACT The platform is a flexible spatial arrangement that does not have a fixed territory but rather draws on other territorialized networks to actualize in urban form. The capacity for the platform to act occurs through its ability to articulate together more or less territorialized urban elements. It implies a reorganization of urban operations (such as transport, housing, and so on) not through new physical infrastructures, but instead through novel technologies of coordination of those already existing. At present, discussion of platforms in cities is dominated by the platform as company, which generates private value from the coordination of differently networked actors. However, appreciating the urban geography of the platform as a flexible spatial arrangement indicates that platforms can hold much promise for the organization of cities but requires a more equitable distribution of the value generated by coordination of urban actors.
Determinants of access to and intensity of formal credit: evidence from a survey of rural households in eastern India

This paper aims to analyse the correlates of choice of source of credit and amount of institutional finance from survey of rural households in eastern India. The study uses primary data of 2, 641 rural households across Bihar, eastern Uttar Pradesh and Jharkhand. Cragg's double hurdle model, which accounts for endogeneity between amount of formal finance borrowed and access of households to formal credit, is used to simultaneously identify the correlates of access and amount of formal credit. The results indicate that in eastern India, as much as 52% of households lack access to any type of loan, and the credit borrowed per household is Rs. 69, 477, which is two-thirds of the national average of Rs. 103, 457. The results of the exponential double hurdle model indicate that households with little land and education and belonging to disadvantaged social strata lack access to formal credit. Having a bank branch in the village or nearby distance is found to increase access and the amount borrowed.
Rootstocks in developing rustic grapevine in two counties in West of Paraná State, Brazil

The vine, when studied in different places and years, allow extensive conclusion on cultural adaptation in a specific region. The objective of this research was to evaluate two rootstocks and three cultivars of rustic grapes under bench grafting at Toledo and Ouro Verde do Oeste (Parana State, Brazil). Both researches were conducted in a private property, evaluating forming and plant development and of this plants in field. Bench grafting was used for plant forming, by saddle graft. After 90 days grafting root percentage and graft union were evaluated. Then, plants were conducted in field and after 15 days the average sprouting height and number of surviving plants was analyzed. Past 120 days the second phase that consisted of: diameter of horizontal cordon, number of grow plants, number of gems and number of branches than reach the second, and third line of the support system was evaluated. The experiment design was of randomized blocks with factorial arrangement 2x3x2. When the arrangement wasn’t significant for triple and double interaction, each experiment was analyzed alone in factorial arrangement 2x3. All parameters did not show influence concerning local. In the first phase only height of sprouting was significantly at Ouro Verde do Oeste. The IAC-766 Campinas rootstock was better than 420-A to Bordo variety. In the second phase, the IAC-766 Campinas rootstock was more vigorous than 420-A to form a vineyard. Both rootstocks and cultivars are indicated to both counties.
DETERMINATION OF ORAL MELOXICAM PHARMACOKINETIC PARAMETERS IN ASIAN INDIANS: COMPARISON WITH A GERMAN POPULATION

*In recent years, the study of population variability in drug disposition/pharmacokinetics has received increasing attention. Hence, the pharmacokinetics of meloxicam, has been studied in Asian Indians and the results were compared with those available in the literature for Germans. Oral pharmacokinetics of meloxicam was studied in a group of healthy Asian Indian male subjects. After an overnight fast, subjects received a 15 mg oral tablet and the blood samples were drawn between 0 h and 96 h post dose. Meloxicam plasma levels were determined by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) using C18 column and UV detector set at 355 nm. Pharmacokinetic parameters (mean (SD)) maximum plasma concentration (Cmax), time to reach maximum plasma concentration (Tmax), area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC0-∞), elimination half life (t1/2), volume of distribution (Vd/F) and clearance (Cl/F) were 1.3763 (0.25) mg/l, 2.91 (2.02) h, 35.79 (8.53) mg.h/l, 30.50 (9.60) h, 19.04 (7.16) l and 0.44 (0.10) l/h respectively. To explore the possibility of interethnic variability, our results were compared with those reported for Germans. Most of the pharmacokinetic parameters were different from the reported parameter values for Germans obtained under comparable conditions. Particularly, absorption was very quick in the healthy Indian male subjects (Tmax was approximately 3 h אאאאאא אאא K אא אאאאא א אאא
Grafting Influence on Physio-chemical Characters of Tomato on Brinjal Root Stock

India is the second largest producer of horticultural crops especially vegetables in the World followed by China country. Area under vegetables 10.29 mha and total production of vegetables is 176.17 mt (Anonymous, 2017–18). Tomato (Solanum lycopersicom L.) is the major vegetable crop, grown in many parts of the World and has high economic importance. It belongs to family solanaceae. Cultivation practices of tomato vary from region to region depending on soil conditions, altitude, agro-climate, source availability, skills of farmers, and finance availability. It consists of 95% of water, 4% carbohydrate per 100-gram, crude tomatoes supply 18 calories of energy and 17% vitamin C. The overall production of tomato is 177 mt; China is the major producer, sharing 32% of the total production, followed by the European Union, India, USA and Turkey. In India; Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Karnataka are the major producing state contributing approximately 30% to the total production. The production of tomato in Punjab is 226t Grafting Influence on Physio-chemical Characters of Tomato on Brinjal Root Stock
Recent advances in the first-line treatment of mantle cell lymphoma

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a rare B-cell lymphoma, with a median survival of only three to four years. In recent years, the development of new drugs and therapeutic strategies appeared to have improved the outcomes. This review focused on the most important new strategies for untreated MCL patients. Given the heterogeneous clinical evolutions between patients, several prognostic factors have been identified. These factors, as well as the identification of indolent and aggressive MCL, are useful to propose a risk-adapted therapeutic strategy. The prognostic impact and the practical applications of minimal residual disease (MRD) will be addressed. Overall, induction by combining rituximab with cytarabine, followed by consolidation with autologous stem cell transplant had been shown to have benefits for MCL younger patients. However, almost all MCL patients will relapse over time. The addition of rituximab as maintenance therapy for these patients had been shown to improve overall survival. Achievement of complete response with negative MRD and/or negative PET scan while reducing toxicity would be the future therapeutic objective. In this perspective, targeted therapies, alone or in combination as induction or maintenance therapy, are currently being tested earlier in the disease course.
Deriving Surface Ages on Mars Using Automated Crater Counting

Impact craters on solar system bodies are used to determine the relative ages of surfaces. The smaller the limiting primary crater size, the higher the spatial resolution in surface/resurfacing age dating. A manually counted database (Robbins & Hynek, 2012, https://doi.org/10.1029/2011JE003966) of >384,000 craters on Mars >1 km in diameter exists. But because crater size scales as a power law, the number of impact craters in the size range 10 m to 1 km is in the tens of millions, a number making precise analysis of local variations of age, over an entire surface, impossible to perform by manual counting. To decode this crater size population at a planetary scale, we developed an automated Crater Detection Algorithm based on the You Only Look Once v3 object detection system. The algorithm was trained by annotating images of the controlled Thermal Emission Imaging System daytime infrared data set. This training data set contains 7,048 craters that the algorithm used as a learning benchmark. The results were validated against the manually counted database as the ground truth data set. We applied our algorithm to the Thermal Emission Imaging System global mosaic between ±65° of latitude, returning a true positive detection rate of 91% and a diameter estimation error (~15%) consistent with typical manual count variation. Importantly, although a number of automated crater counting algorithms have been published, for the first time we demonstrate that automatic counting can be routinely used to derive robust surface ages.