Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Near-Infrared Spectroscopy: Applications in the Analysis of Tablets and Solid Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms

Introduction The popularity of near-infrared (near-IR) spectroscopy is rapidly increasing for many reasons. Availability of inexpensive yet powerful computers and chemometric software for spectral data analysis is fostering the growth of new applications of the technique. The development of rapid-scanning spectrometers offering very high signal-to-noise ratios, an increased understanding and acceptance of the method in a variety of industries, and the need to maintain real-time process control in an era of total quality management are other reasons this method has begun to receive such attention. Near-IR spectroscopy has been used for a wide range of analyses in industries as diverse as biomedicine and petrochemicals. Although the pharmaceutical industry has been relatively slow to embrace this technique, a variety of pharmaceutical applications of near-IR have been identified and investigated. This review will discuss the development of near-IR spectroscopy for the analysis of pharmaceutical dosage forms.
The Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome in Ethiopian Population: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background The metabolic syndrome is a clustering of hyperglycemia/insulin resistance, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and obesity which are risk factors for cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and stroke, and all-cause mortality. The burden of metabolic syndrome is emerging alarmingly in low- and middle-income countries such as Ethiopia; however, there is lack of comprehensive estimation. This study aimed to determine the pooled prevalence of metabolic syndrome in Ethiopia. Methods This systematic review and meta-analysis included original articles of observational studies published in the English language. Searches were carried out in PubMed, Google Scholar, and Africa Journals from conception to August 2020. A random-effects model was used to estimate the pooled prevalence of metabolic syndrome in Ethiopia. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistic. Subgroup analysis was also conducted based on sex/gender and study subjects. Egger's test was used to assess publication bias. Results Electronic and gray literature search retrieved 942 potentially relevant papers. After removing duplicates and screening with eligibility criteria, twenty-eight cross-sectional studies were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of metabolic syndrome in Ethiopia was found to be 34.89% (95% CI: 26.77, 43.01) and 27.92% (95% CI: 21.32, 34.51) by using NCEP/ATP III and IDF criteria, respectively. The weighted pooled prevalence of metabolic syndrome was higher in females 36.74% (95% CI: 20.72, 52.75) and 34.09% (95% CI: 26.68, 41.50) compared to males 22.22% (95% CI: 14.89, 29.56) and 24.82% (95% CI: 18.34, 31.31) by using IDF and NCEP/ATP III criteria, respectively. Subgroup analysis based on the study subjects using NCEP/ATP III showed that the weighted pooled prevalence was 63.78%(95% CI: 56.17, 71.40), 44.55% (95% CI: 30.71, 52.38), 23.09% (95% CI: 19.74, 26.45), 20.83% (95% CI: 18.64, 23.01), and 18.45% (95% CI: 13.89, 23.01) among type 2 diabetes patients, hypertensive patients, psychiatric patients, HIV patients on HAART, and working adults, respectively. The most frequent metabolic syndrome components were low HDL-C 51.0% (95% CI: 42.4, 59.7) and hypertriglyceridemia 39.7% (95% CI: 32.8, 46.6). Conclusions The findings revealed an emerging high prevalence of metabolic syndrome in Ethiopia. Therefore, early intervention is required for the primary prevention of the occurrence of metabolic syndrome and the further reduction of the morbidity and mortality related to it.
The metrics of surface adsorbed small molecules on the Young's fringe dual-slab waveguide interferometer

A method for analysing thin films using a dual-waveguide interferometric technique is described. Alternate dual polarization addressing of the interferometer sensor using a ferroelectric liquid crystal polarization switch allowed the opto-geometrical properties (density and thickness) of adsorbed layers at a solid? liquid interface to be determined. Differences in the waveguide mode dispersion between the transverse electric and transverse magnetic modes allowed unique combinations of layer thickness and refractive index to be determined at all stages of the layer formation process. The technique has been verified by comparing the analysis of the surface adsorption of surfactants with data obtained using neutron scattering techniques, observing their behaviour on trimethylsilane coated silicon oxynitride surfaces. The data obtained were found to be in excellent agreement with analogous neutron scattering experiments and the precision of the measurements taken to be of the order of 40? pm with respect to adsorbed layer thicknesses. The study was extended to a series of surfactants whose layer morphology could be correlated with their hydrophilicity/lipophilicity balance. Those in the series with longer alkyl chains were observed to form thinner, denser layers at the hydrophobic solid/aqueous liquid interface and the degree of order attained at sub-critical micelle concentrations to be correlated with molecular fluidity.The technique is expected to find utility with those interested in thin film analysis. An important and growing area of application is within the life sciences, especially in the field of protein structure and function.
Effect of Viscosity on the Kinetics of α-Helix and β-Hairpin Formation

Nanosecond laser temperature jumps and fluorescence detection were used to measure the effect of viscosity on the kinetics of α-helix and β-hairpin formation in peptides containing 21 and 16 amino acids, respectively. The solvent viscosity was changed by adding glucose and sucrose at concentrations that do not significantly alter the equilibrium unfolding curves. Analysis of the temperature dependence at fixed solvent compositions shows that the activation energies are also unaffected, indicating that the slowing of the relaxation rates upon addition of the sugars results entirely from their dynamical effect of increasing the solvent viscosity (η). The rate of β-hairpin formation was found to vary nearly as 1/η, as predicted by Kramers theory in the high friction limit. In contrast, the rate of α-helix formation exhibited a fractional viscosity dependence (k = η-α) with an exponent α ≈ 0.6. The intrinsic activation energy for the elementary kinetic step of rotating a pair of backbone dihedral angles, obta.
Single-channel dereverberation and denoising based on lower band trained SA-LSTMs

: The supervised single-channel speech enhancement presents one mixture recording at the input of the neural network and updates network parameters in order to generate an output as the reconstructed speech signal. However, current neural networks-based single-channel speech enhancement methods are not able to fully utilise pertinence with the specific frequency range of speech signals with limited computational complexity. In this study, the authors studied the power spectral density of mixtures with human speech and noise interferences. Based on the theory that the speech signal distributes at the lower band, they proposed a method to train signal approximation (SA) based neural networks with the lower frequency band of the speech mixture to improve the performance. To realise the lower band approach for single-channel speech enhancement, the method uses a long short-term memory (LSTM) block to exploit short-time Fourier transform of the desired frequency range. Furthermore, in order to improve the speech enhancement performance within reverberant room environments, the dereverberation mask and the enhanced ratio mask are exploited as the training targets of two LSTM blocks, respectively. The detailed evaluations confirm that the proposed method outperforms the state-of-the-art methods.
An enhanced full‐feedforward strategy to mitigate output current harmonics in grid‐tied inverters

Correspondence Kiarash Gharani Khajeh, ITEE Department, University of Queensland, St Lucia Queensland 4072, Brisbane, Australia. Email: k.gharanikhajeh@uq.edu. au Abstract The grid-tied inverters are the most vital components in renewable energy-based power systems. Hence, maintaining the power quality of a grid-tied inverter output within the standard range is an ongoing challenge in the power system. The appeared individual harmonics at inverter output current caused by grid voltage harmonics depend on the inverter output equivalent admittance. This consists of a combination of admittance seen from the point of common coupling and the phase-locked loop path. Therefore, the precise calculation of the aforementioned admittance is an inevitable requirement to design a harmonic mitigation strategy. By adding a virtual admittance to the system through modifications in the inverter control loop, the output equivalent admittance can be removed. For this purpose, in this paper, a novel full-feedforward harmonic suppression scheme is proposed which can effectively eliminate individual harmonics injected from the grid. Consequently, the individual output current harmonics of the inverter will be effectively suppressed. Simulation and experimental results have been carried out for a typical single-phase grid-tied inverter to verify the efficiency of the proposed scheme against emitted harmonics from the grid.
Fabrication of Designed Architectures of Au Nanoparticles on Solid Substrate with Printed Self-Assembled Monolayers as Templates

This paper provides a convenient method for fabricating architectures of Au nanoparticles on solid substrate,with precise position and density control. Our strategy is to modify Au substrate with self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) terminated with different functional groups. They were chosen to be −CH3/−NH2 or −CH3/−SH according to their affinities to Au nanoparticle. Au nanoparticles assemble selectively on −NH2 or −SH terminated locations, the −NH2 functional group binding electrostatically to the nanoparticles whereas the −SH groups bonding chemically. The SAMs, acting as guiding templates for Au nanoparticles, were fabricated by the microcontact printing (μCP) technique. A patterned or unpatterned SAM was prepared by using patterned or unpatterned poly(dimethyl)siloxane (PDMS) stamp, respectively. The coverage of −CH3 terminated SAM in the contact region is controlled by changing the concentration of “ink” solution for the stamp. After immersing the printed SAM into −SH or −NH2 thiol solutions for 2 h, .
How biocompatible haemodialysers can conquer the need for systemic anticoagulation even in post-dilution haemodiafiltration: a cross-over study

Abstract Background While systemic anticoagulation is most widely used in haemodialysis (HD), contraindications to its use might occur in particular settings. The Solacea™ haemodialyser with an asymmetric triacetate membrane claims improved biocompatibility and has already shown promising results when used in combination with only half dose of anticoagulation. To quantify the performance of the Solacea™ when further decreasing anticoagulation to zero, fibre blocking was assessed by micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). Methods Ten maintenance HD patients underwent six dialysis sessions at midweek using a Solacea™ 19H dialyser, consecutively in pre-dilution haemodiafiltration (pre-HDF), HD and post-dilution HDF (post-HDF). After the first three sessions with only a quarter of their regular anticoagulation dose (one-quarter), the last three sessions were performed without anticoagulation (zero). Dialyser fibre blocking was quantified in the dialyser outlet potting using a 3D micro-CT scanning technique post-dialysis. Results Even in case of reduced (one-quarter) anticoagulation, the relative number of open fibres post-dialysis was almost optimal, i.e. 0.96 (0.87–0.99) with pre-HDF, 0.99 (0.97–0.99) with HD and 0.97 (0.92–0.99) with post-HDF. Fibre patency was mildly decreased for pre-HDF and HD when anticoagulation was decreased from one-quarter to zero, i.e. to 0.76 (0.61–0.85) with pre-HDF (P = 0.004) and to 0.80 (0.77–0.89) with HD (P = 0.013). Comparing the results for zero anticoagulation, post-HDF [i.e. 0.94 (0.82–0.97)] performed as well as HD and pre-HDF. Conclusions The Solacea™ dialyser provides promising results for use in conditions where systemic anticoagulation is contraindicated. Post-HDF, although inducing haemoconcentration in the dialyser, is equally effective for fibre patency in case of zero anticoagulation as pre-HDF and HD when using Solacea™.
Characterization of overlapped chromatographic peaks by their second derivative. The limit of the method

The second derivative of a chromatographic signal can aid in the recognition of composite peaks. In the case of a two-component composite, the second derivative has three maxima and two minima. The time position of the second of the three maxima is indicative of the point where the peak envelope of each component cross each other. This second maximum can be used to trigger the end of integration of the first component and the beginning of the integration of the second component. In theory, the second derivative approach works well. The present paper investigates the limits of the method. It was found that, depending on the separation between the two components in the composite, there is a peak height ratio below which the method fails to recognize the existence of a composite system. The greater the separation, the smaller the height ratio. At 4{sigma} separation, the minimum height ratio that the method can still recognize as a composite is around 10{sup {minus}5}. However, the useful range of the approach may extend to a lower range of height ratios due to the small changes in the area with relatively large changes in the peak height ratio. Noise also affects the usefulmore » range of the method. In general, as the noise increases, the method fails at higher peak height ratios. A surface describing the useful range of the method is given as a function of the signal-to-noise ratio, the separation and the height ratio. « less
Unusual Formation of Smectic A Structure in Cross-Linked Monodomain Elastomer of Main-Chain LC Polyester with 3-Methylpentane Spacer

The main-chain BB/PDA-5(3-Me) polyester containing a photo-cross-linkable p-phenylenediacrylate (PDA) moiety was synthesized and cross-linked in the transparent monodomain smectic CA (SCA) state by UV irradiation. The monodomain SCA elastomer contracted to about 60% of the original length on heating up to the isotropic phase and recovered only 5% of the original length at the liquid crystallization on cooling. Irrespective of such a small recovery in the length, the liquid crystal was well formed with a high orientation, but the formed smectic structure was of a smectic A (SA) type with the layer spacing 2 times larger than that of the original SCA phase. By elongation of this contracted elastomer, the SA structure transformed to the original SCA one, showing a quasi-plateau in the stress–strain curve. The connection between the structural transformation and the stress–strain behavior lets us propose an unsusal SA structure in which the polymer chain folds every two repeat units. Such a characteristic fol.
Study on Block-Chain Implementation in Zakat Management (Case Study in Indonesia)

Studies on the role of ICT in Zakat management have been carried out with the conclusion that the use of ICT can increase efficiency, convenience, and practicality in paying Zakat . However, the problems faced by Zakat institutions are: Trust, Credibility, Accountability, and Transparency. To deal with these issues is by using Block-chain technology. Thus, it is necessary to conduct a study in more detail of block-chain implementation in Zakat management. This research is a descriptive research involving 200 respondents as the sample throughout Indonesia. The sample includes Academicians, Islamic Finance Activists, Zakat Payer, and Scholars. The Sampling method used is area, stratified, purposive sampling. The result shows that the use of ICT can increase people awareness to pay Zakat . Secondly, the use of block-chain technology will increase the credibility value of institutions. Last but not least, the transparency will encourage people’s belief and trust to the Zakat institution. Therefore, to design appropriate model Block-Chain is needed to facilitate good relationship among Zakat stakeholders. In term of TAM (Technology Acceptance Model) the use of Block-Chain in Zakat management will facilitate in three ways, namely; Perceived of Usefulness Perception, Increasing Performance and Perceived on Easiness of Use. The result also revealed that credibility is the most significant factor, and then followed by accountability, transparency, and trust.
Modulated 3D Cross-Correlation Dynamic Light Scattering Applications for Optical Biosensing and Time-Dependent Monitoring of Nanoparticle-Biofluid Interactions

This paper reviews dynamic light scattering (DLS) of gold nanoparticle-protein interactions for the model protein bovine serum albumin (BSA), as well as in complex biofluids, at the example of mouse serum. DLS data of nanorods of various aspect ratio, of proteins and of mouse serum are discussed in terms of the analysis of their hydrodynamic radii, leading to the distinction of rotational and translational motion as well as to the detection of agglomerates. We address in particular advances obtained by modulated 3D cross correlation dynamic light scattering and recent progress using the CORENN algorithm for analysis of DLS data.
The Deleterious F109S Mutation Disrupts Binding of Sex-Determining Region Y with DNA

Sex-determining region Y (SRY) protein is the master switch in the initiation of male sex differentiation. Mutation in SRY gene results in ambiguous genitalia and abnormalities in reproductive organs. Its function is mainly controlled by its high mobility group (HMG) box. Damage to the HMG box may cause dysfunction of the SRY protein, which may, in turn, lead to sex reversal. This study was conducted to prioritize the deleterious effects of the non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (nsSNPs) on SRY protein. A series of computational tools were applied to predict nsSNPs with the most harmful effects on protein structure, function, and stability. Molecular docking experiments were performed to identify the possible role of these nsSNPs in altering protein binding potentials with receptors. Cumulative results indicated that three nsSNPs would have highly deleterious effects, namely I90M, F109S, and Y127F. Docking analyses revealed no participation of both I90M and Y127F in modulating the binding of SRY with its receptor DNA sequences, while F109S induced a noticeable alteration in SRY by inducing a conformational change in its HMG box. In conclusion, the predictive tools showed that I90M, F109S, and Y127F are the most drastic SNPs in the SRY, signifying possible destructive consequences of these SNPs on sex development. Both I90M and Y127F undergo such harmful effects on the structure, function, and stability without being involved in modulating SRY binding with its DNA receptor sequences. This study provides a comprehensive platform for assessing the pattern of damaging effects of nsSNPs on the SRY gene, which may be linked with the grade of sexual dysfunction syndromes.
Reshaping health care governance using pilot projects as public policy implementation instruments

Pilot projects are often used to test innovations; however, pilot projects, viewed as tools, are rarely addressed as an object for research. This paper, in which pilot projects are viewed as public policy instruments producing specific effects, addresses the research question: how does the use of multidisciplinary pilot projects as experimentation and implementation instruments reshape modes of public governance in the Belgian health sector in a context of transition and ongoing devolution? An ethnographic study was conducted, focusing on the specific case of the Belgian joint plan, “Integrated Care for Better Health”, which targets chronic patients and was intended to initiate a major transition from a fragmented to an integrated care system for chronic patients. The analysis concerns the specific implementation modalities designed by the authorities, which consisted of the launch of pilot projects involving professionals in the field coming from different sectors in an iterative and incremental co-creation process. This choice caused new vertical interdependences to emerge between the levels of the health care system, transforming the roles of both the authorities and hands-on professionals involved; it also denoted a transition towards a more negotiated governance, in the course of which several types of knowledge and evidence have been mobilised.
Elephants in the village: Causes and consequences of property damage in Asia and Africa

In recent years, reports of elephants causing damage in rural villages by destroying houses and foraging on stored food have been increasing, but little is known about the determinants and magnitude of this damage. In this study, we have examined the extent of property damage by elephants (Loxodonta africana and Elephas maximus), in one African and two Asian study areas over a six‐year period. A total of 1,172 damaged constructions were observed on site, involving detailed damage assessment by trained enumerators and standardized interviews with witnesses. Depending on the study area, between 67.1 and 86.4% of damage events were attributed to single, individual elephants or pairs of males. The majority of properties were damaged in search for food (62.5–76.7% respectively). Property damage caused higher mean losses than crop damage on farmland in all study areas. Results suggest that property damage by elephants has been largely underestimated and needs to form a focus in future human–elephant conflict research. We suggest a need to reduce the attractiveness of villages by storing food in locked and safe places, away from sleeping areas and to foster the development of elephant safe stores, appropriate to the particular cultural background of the target area.
The interplay between literacy and digital technology: a fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis approach

Introduction. Information literacy and digital literacy skills have become increasingly important capabilities in the digital world, as such it is of the utmost importance to assess how individual’s literacy skills impact people’s intention to use digital technology. Method. In this paper, based on the current literature, we design our research and through an empirical study conducted in Finland and Italy, we examine how these skills impact the decision of university students to use digital technology. Analysis. Data was analysed through a novel method (fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis). Results. The fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis results show that students in these two countries differ from one another and factors influencing the intention to use digital technology vary among students. For Finnish students’ digital literacy and for Italian students’ information literacy were important factors. Conclusions. The results of this paper contribute to the information and digital literacy research and provide unique insights and practical implications.