Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
OPTIMIZATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF BIODEGRADABLE POLYMERIC NANOCAPSULES OF A CAMPTOTHECIN DERIVATIVE

Objective: SN-38(7-ethyl-10-hydroxycamptothecin), a Camptothecin derivative is the active metabolite of Irinotecan hydrochloride, poses a challenge in terms of drug delivery due to its low solubility and labile lactone ring. In spite of being 100-1000 times more cytototoxic than its prodrug, it is yet in clinical trials and needs FDA approval. It poses anticancer activity against cancers like colon, lung, cervix and pancreas. The aim of this study was to develop biodegradable SN-38 incorporated polymeric nanocapsules (PLNP) using (PLGA) Poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid). Methods: PLNP were prepared by emulsion-solvent evaporation method and optimized by 32 full factorial design. The physicochemical properties are characterized by TEM, DLS, Zeta Potential, DSC and FTIR. Its stability was checked at pH 4.5 and 7.4 and at 25oC and 37oC. Results: The entrapment efficiency and drug loading content of optimized formulation were 72.6 (± 1.02) % and 10 (± 0.47) % respectively. The in vitro drug release studies showed higher release in simulated intestinal fluid with 4% rat cecal contents as compared to simulated gastric fluid and intestinal fluid. At 25 oC, about 25% of the SN-38 was degraded after 96 h for free SN-38 and 10% of SN-38 for PLNP entrapped SN-38, whereas at 37 o C, 28% of the SN-38 was degraded after 96 h. Conclusion: PLNP showed better drug release in simulated intestinal fluid with 4% rat cecal contents which makes it a suitable candidate for colorectal cancer therapy. PLNP was maintained even after 96 h of exposure to pH 7.4 and 37oC, indicating that in vivo SN-38 loaded nanocapsules (PLNP) should display increased stability and better performance compared with the free drug.
COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF SONOURETHROGRAPHY (SUG) AND RETROGRADE URETHROGRAPHY (RGU) IN DETECTION OF URETHRAL STRICTURES

AIMS AND OBJECTIVE: To compare the role of sonourethrography (SUG) and retrograde urethrography (RGU) in detection of urethral strictures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was done in the Department of Radiodiagnosis and Surgery, G R Medical College, Gwalior between September 2012 & September 2013. 80 male patients between age group 10 to 70 years with symptoms of lower urinary tract obstruction underwent RGU followed by SUG. Patients having urethral pathologies other than stricture were excluded from the study. The findings of SUG and RGU were compared with each other and per operatively and results analyzed. RESULTS: Out of the 80 patients taken into study, 60 were diagnosed as having urethral stricture. The most common site of stricture was bulbar urethra (53.3%) followed by penile (33.3%) & diffuse (13.3%) on SUG. 29,25 and 6 cases had short segment (< 2 cm), intermediate (2-4 cm) and long stricture (> 4 cm) on SUG as compared to 33, 21 and 4 cases on RGU. SUG had sensitivity and specificity of 96.5% and 96.7% respectively while RGU had sensitivity and specificity of 90% and 78%. For stricture thickness of <4mm, SUG had sensitivity and specificity of 97% and 86%. CONCLUSION: Thus we conclude that SUG is more sensitive and specific in diagnosing the length, site and thickness of urethral stricture as compared to RGU. Hence, we recommend the use of sonourethrography with greater frequency for pre-surgical assessment of urethral strictures in men.
Effect of Vitamin C on In Vitro Sperm Activation of Asthenozoospermic Infertile Patients

One hundred and fifty asthenozoospermic patients were involved in the present study at age ranging between 20 to 62 years during their attendance at Al-Sadder Teaching Hospital in Al-Najaf/Iraq in a period from November 2012 to July 2013. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of vitamin c on sperm activation of asthenozoospermic infertile patients. The results of the study showed that there was a significant decrease (P<0.05) in the sperm concentration that assessed post-activation in vitro in both treated groups and control groups as compared to pre-activation groups using fertiCult medium by direct mixing technique, but there were no significant differences in the assessed value with different concentrations of vitamin C that used. Also, it was appeared that, the sperm motility percent, and grade of motility were significantly increased (P<0.05) in both treated groups and control groups as compared to preactivation groups using fertiCult medium by direct mixing technique, but there were no significant differences in the assessed values with different concentrations of vitamin C that used. However, best in vitro sperm activation results regarding the improvement of the sperm motility percent, and grade of motility were observed with fertiCult medium supplemented with (0.06 mg/ml) vitamin C.
A Novel Compact Ultra-Wideband (UWB) Wide Slot Antenna with via Holes

A novel compact ultra-wideband (UWB) wide slot antenna with via holes is presented for UWB applications. The antenna is composed of a trapezoidal slot on the ground plane, a rectangular patch in the center of the slot and three via holes connecting the rectangular patch and the microstrip feed-line. The antenna is successfully designed, implemented, and measured. The measured results show that the proposed antenna with compact size of 27:0mm£29:0mm£1:0mm achieves good performance, such as an impedance matching bandwidth of 111.7% (jS11j • i10dB), constant gain and stable radiation patterns over its whole frequency range.
AM M 3 Project-Actor Based Simulation in VirtualWorlds

M3 Simulation is a simulation approach that actively involves real human actors in a virtual reality environment based on multidisciplinary simulation models. This actor based concept aims at integrated simulation of complex processes belonging to heterogeneous levels of reality, paying specific attention to real human behavior. The entities of the real system under consideration are represented in a consistent object-oriented way by agents simulated by environmental models. This distributed network-capable implementation of the M3 system combines environmental modeling with the intuitive graphic representation, complex communication and interaction structures of virtual worlds in order to support the process of investigation of complex real world systems.
Antioxidant Activity of Some Carduus Species Growing in Bulgaria

Background: Species of genus Carduus are traditionally used in Bulgarian folk medicine as diuretic, cardiotonic and antihemorroidal remedies. C. candicans ssp. globifer and C. kerneri ssp. austro-orientalis are Balkan endemic, whereas C. acanthoides, C. nutans, C. thoermeri C. are invasive alien weeds in the Americas, Australia and New Zealand, and causes major economic losses. The aim of the present study was to screen some Carduus spesies growing in Bulgaria for radical scavenging and inhibitition of lipid peroxidation in order to discover new natural sources of antioxidants for further investigation. Methods: Antioxidant activity of Carduus species were investigated using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2´-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) di-ammonium salt (ABTS) free radicals; ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay and inhibition of lipid peroxidation in linoleic acid system by the ferric thiocyanate method (FTC). Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) and ascorbic acid were used as positive controls. In addition, the quantification of total water soluble polyphenols and flavanoids were determinate by Folin-Chiocalteu reagent and AlCl3, respectively. Results: The highest concentrations of total water soluble polyphenols and flavonoids were found in C. thoermeri (2.06 ± 0.03 g /100 g dw and 3.31 ± 0.12 g /100 g dw, respectively), followed by C. nutans (1.88 ± 0.01 g/100 g dw; 2.60 ± 0.09 g /100 g dw, respectively) and C. candicans ssp. globifer (1.85 ± 0.04 g/100 g dw). Conclusions: All tested extracts demonstrate significant antioxidant activity moreover C. thoermeri, C. nutans and C. candicans ssp. globifer were found to be the most potent and can be a good new source of natural antioxidants.
State-of-the-Art Electronic Devices Based on Graphene

Graphene can be considered as the material used for electronic devices of this century, due to its excellent physical and chemical properties, which have been studied and implemented from a theoretical basis and have allowed the development of unique and innovative applications. The need for an ongoing study of the state-of-the-art electronic devices is ultimately useful for the progress achieved so far and future project applica‐ tions. To date, graphene has been used individually in composite, hybrid materials or functional materials. In this chapter, an overview of their applications in nanoelectron‐ ics, particularly with an emphasis directed to flexible electronics, is presented. The description of the advantages and properties of graphene at a level of materials science and engineering is presented, in order to spread its enormous potential. In addition, the future prospects of these applications arising from the developments made currently in the laboratory phase are examined.
Environmental concern, attitude towards green products and green purchase intentions of consumers in Lesotho

Even though many people show high concern for the environment, the existing literature suggests a disjuncture between peoples’ environmental concern and their shopping behaviours. Based on a survey of 200 shoppers around the precincts of two shopping malls in Lesotho, the objective of this paper is to examine the relationships among consumers’ environmental concern, attitude towards green products, and green purchase intentions. Factor and regression analyses are mainly used to analyse data. The results show that environmental concern is strongly related to attitude towards green products and weakly related to green purchase intentions respectively. When environmental concern and attitude towards green products are entered simultaneously to predict green purchase intentions, the influence of environmental concern becomes insignificant. The mediated relationship suggests that environmental concern affects green purchase intentions indirectly through attitude towards green products, which in turn directly affects green purchase intentions. Based on the results of the study, we provide policy implications and prospects for future research.
The area–heterogeneity tradeoff applied to spatial protection of rockfish (Sebastes spp.) species richness

The “area–heterogeneity tradeoff” hypothesis predicts unimodal effects of habitat heterogeneity on species richness, implying that habitats with intermediate heterogeneity may be priority for spatial protection. Alternatively, if heterogeneity effects are positive, then protecting the most heterogeneous habitats may take precedence. We tested for unimodal effects of habitat heterogeneity on the species density (area‐corrected richness) of rockfishes (Sebastes spp.): long‐lived, benthic fishes vulnerable to overexploitation. Inconsistent with predictions, topographic structural complexity had a strong linear effect on species density; other heterogeneity measures had weaker, positive effects and the only unimodal effect (depth range) was weak. The clear implication is that, to protect the highest density of rockfish species, marine protected areas should include the most topographically complex substrates. Our results can also help refine and test species distribution models needed to inform spatial planning where in situ surveys are lacking. The area–heterogeneity tradeoff generates useful predictions for which support may be context‐dependent.
Do non-profit sport organisations innovate? Types and preferences of service innovation within regional sport federations

Little is known about innovation in the non-profit sport sector. The current research addresses this gap by questioning whether and to what extent sport federations innovate. It aims to identify types of innovation implemented by sport federations and their attitude and preferences towards innovation. An online questionnaire was administered to a sample of key representatives (i.e. Chair, Secretary General or Directors) of regional sport federations in Belgium (n = 101; 70% response rate). Directed content analysis of the service innovations described by respondents reveals ten different types of sport and non-sport service innovations. Results suggest that membership size and categories of sport influence preferences in knowledge creation/appropriation, and ultimately the type of innovation developed. This paper also suggests that sport federations are driven by demands by members in meeting their expectations of new services and are not risk averse. On average, the sport federations surveyed have a positive attitude towards newness that favours innovativeness. The current study would help researchers to advance further into the knowledge of service innovation in non-profit organisations. It should act as a foundation for research and practice on specific types of service innovation in sport. Managers should realise the importance of attitude for innovation and use the suggested typology to provide new services in different categories and meet members’ expectations.
Neuro-evolution in Zero-Sum Perfect Information Games on the Android OS

Abstract In recent years significant work has been done to use Neural Networks in game AI, and harness the advantages of such a technique. This paper would like to show that it is possible using neuroevolution to evolve a neural network topology optimized for a given task and avoiding over or under complexification by human hands. In order to illustrate this we implement two agents capable of playing simple zero sum perfect information games with the help of the genetic algorithm Neuroevolution of augmenting topologies. To illustrate this optimization we load the resulting topologies onto an Android OS game app.
Using GED (Generalized Error Distribution) for modeling distribution of the rates of return

Distribution of the rates of return is one of the most commonly analyzed and used concepts at the capital market. While using density function of the rate of return, a classical assumption is frequently adopted that a given rate of return demonstrates normal distribution. This article presents possible use of GED, which is nonclassical estimation method, for modeling distribution of the rates of return.
The Aquila Digital Community The Aquila Digital Community Physical Disability and Suicidal Desire: An Examination of the Physical Disability and Suicidal Desire: An Examination of the Constructs of the Interpersonal-Psychological Theory of Suicide Constructs of the Interpersonal-Psychological Theory

The primary aims of this study were to examine constructs of the Interpersonal-Psychological Theory of Suicide (IPTS) in an understudied population. Differences in levels of IPTS variables and suicidal ideation between university students with and without physical disabilities were examined. Participants were 184 students from two Southern universities who provided answers to online-based self-report questionnaires. It was hypothesized that students with physical disabilities would endorse higher levels of all IPTS constructs relative to students without physical disabilities. It was further hypothesized that disability status would exhibit an indirect effect on suicidal ideation through perceived burdensomeness and thwarted belongingness. Results indicated no differences in IPTS variables and suicidal desire between students with and without physical disabilities, and the tests of indirect effects were non-significant. The possibility exists that these null findings were partly due to the limitations of the study. This proposed study is preliminary and will serve to better inform future research regarding suicide and disability status.
Analyzing the Calculus Concept Inventory: Content Validity, Internal Structure Validity, and Reliability Analysis.

We present findings from an analysis of the Calculus Concept Inventory. Analysis of data from over 1500 students across four institutions indicates that there are deficiencies in the instrument. The analysis showed the data is consistent with a unidimensional model and does not have strong enough reliability for its intended use. This finding emphasizes the need for creating and validating a criterion-referenced concept inventory on differential calculus. We conclude with ideas for such an instrument and its uses.
Molecular Modeling and Docking Studies on the First Chlorotoxin-Like Peptide from Iranian Scorpion Mesobuthuseupeus (Meict) and SNP Variants of Matrix Methaloproteinase-2 (MMP-2)

Background: MeICT is the first chlorotoxin-like peptide isolated from the Iranian Scorpion Mesobuthus eupeus. Chlorotoxin (CTX) is a neurotoxin that specially binds to (MMP-2) on malignant cells and now is used in treatment of glioma. In the present study, we have used homology modeling to propose the 3D structure of MeICTand analyze its interaction with MMP-2 and its SNP types. Methods: The structure of MeICT was modeled by using homology modeling through the Swiss-Model workspace. Structural evaluation and stereo-chemical analysis of modeled structure of MeICT was performed using ProSA-web Z-scores and Mol Probity Ramachandran plots. Hex Server was used to investigate the interactions between MeICT and catalytic domain of MMP-2 and SNP types. Binding energies calculation and complementarity scores were used for evaluation of protein docking. Results:The comparable Z-scores, Ramachandran plot characteristics and RMSD values confirmed the quality of the homology model of MeICT. About 17 SNP variants in catalytic domain of MMP2 were detected. According to the total and electrostatic energies and the number of interactive residues by hydrogen bond, the structure of MeICT-rs200271857, MeICTrs144334568, MeICT-rs111590299 and MeICT-rs201083413complexes are more stable. Conclusion: The structure of MeICT is similar to CTX, somight be used as therapeutic agent in glioma. We could find some variants of MMP-2 that can bind to MeICT with more or less af
Advances in quantum machine learning

Here we discuss advances in the field of quantum machine learning. The following document offers a hybrid discussion; both reviewing the field as it is currently, and suggesting directions for further research. We include both algorithms and experimental implementations in the discussion. The field's outlook is generally positive, showing significant promise. However, we believe there are appreciable hurdles to overcome before one can claim that it is a primary application of quantum computation.
A Reo-like Virus Isolated from Juvenile American Oysters (Crassostrea virginica)

Summary A filterable agent, designated 13p2 was isolated from homogenized juvenile oyster tissue inoculated on to bluegill fry (BF-2) cell cultures. The oysters were from a hatchery on Long Island Sound, New York. Successive passages resulted in progressive cytopathic effects (c.p.e.) consisting of discrete plaques containing large syncytia seen within 2 to 3 days in cultures held at 15 °C. The agent was concentrated from supernatant fluids by ultracentrifugation. Negative stained preparations examined by electron microscopy revealed icosahedral particles with a mean diam. of 79 nm. Virus replication in tissue culture occurred at both 15 and 23 °C. Susceptible fish cells in addition to the BF-2 included brown bullhead, Atlantic salmon, guppy embryo and walleye fry lines. Limited c.p.e. occurred in Atlantic salmon heart cells while rainbow trout gonad, rainbow trout spleen and fathead minnow cells were refractory to cytopathic changes. Biochemical and physical characteristics suggested the 13p2 virus belonged to the family Reoviridae. The possibility that this virus is a known reovirus, present only as a contaminant, was ruled out on the basis of serological results and failure of avian or mammalian cells to support its growth. The 13p2 agent may be an undescribed virus. Further investigations concerning the identity of this virus and its capabilities as a pathogen in fish and shellfish are under way.
Development and Assessment of the Reliability and Validity of a Diet Quality Index in a Sample of Malaysian University Students

Despite the fact that university students are at risk of having a poor diet quality, there is no reliable and valid instrument to measure the diet quality of Malaysian university students. The objectives of this study were to develop and validate a diet quality index among a sample of Malaysian university students, and assess their diet quality. The Malaysian Dietary Guidelines and Malaysian Food Pyramid were used in the formulation of a diet quality index. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 320 students at a local university. Data collected through face-to-face interview was used to determine the reliability and validity of the diet quality index. The diet quality of participants was also assessed and they were categorised into ‘at risk’ and ‘at lower risk’ of poor diet quality. A Cronbach’s alpha value of 0.780, mean inter-item correlation of 0.353 and corrected-item total correlation above 0.3 were found after five items were deleted from the index. Principal component analysis revealed the presence of four components with eigenvalues exceeding 1. Only one component explaining 41.7% of variance was retained. This component consisted of seven items. The index also showed known-group validity with respect to gender with females (19.0) having higher median diet quality scores than males (18.0) (p=0.006). Diet quality scores showed significant negative correlation with sugar intake (r=-0.150, p=0.008) and significant positive correlation with intakes of fibre and nine micronutrients (p<0.05). The percentage of participants ‘at risk’ and ‘at lower risk’ of poor diet quality were 23.1% and 76.9% respectively. The 7-item diet quality index is a short, interviewer-administered, valid and reliable instrument to measure the diet quality of Malaysian university students. External validation will extend the application of this diet quality index.
Adaptation of the Scale for Health Promoting Schools to Turkish Society: A Validity and Reliability Study

ABS TRACT Objective: This study is aimed at adapting the “Scale for Health Promoting Schools (SHPS)” to Turkish society in accordance with the directives of the World Health Organization (WHO) for health promoting schools in 1995 and at determining its validity and reliability. Material and Methods: The study was conducted methodologically in the Muratpaşa district of Antalya Province between October 2015 and January 2016. Out of a total of 4350 teachers, 1236 agreed to participate in the study. Two types of socio-demographic characteristics of teachers and SHPS were used. Confirmatory and exploratory factor analyses (CFA and EFA, respectively) were carried out using a principal component analysis with varimax rotation and Kaiser normalization to test its construct validity. We used Cronbach’s alpha to examine the SHPS’s reliability (internal consistency). Results: The CFA did not confirm the original factor model. EFA was performed in order to determine an applicable factor structure as the second stage of analysis. The Cronbach’s alpha for the total scale was 0.95, and the subscale alpha coefficients ranged from 0.55 to 0.93. The subscales of the scale were redenominated as the school-community relationship and individual health skills, the school’s physical environment, the health policies of the school, health services, the school’s nutrition policies, the health system and class structure, and the disciplinary structure of the school. Conclusion: The SHPS was found to be valid and reliable, and its psychometric characteristics acceptable. SHPS can be used for comprehensively assessing the needs of schools and monitoring the progress of school health interventions.