Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Laptop Versus Longhand Note Taking in a Professional Doctorate Course: Student Performance, Attitudes, and Behaviors.

Objective To determine the relationship between longhand note taking versus laptop note taking on pharmacy students' examination performance and identify differences in attitudes and behaviors as it relates to the note taking process. Methods A small group of students consented voluntarily to take longhand notes, doing away with their laptops during portions of the course administered by study investigators. Analyses were conducted on block examination performance, with each student's score on the first examination serving as a performance benchmark to assess change. Laptop and longhand note takers completed a survey regarding various aspects of their note taking attitudes and behaviors, and also included open text comments to capture qualitative experiential data. Results Based upon a relatively small number of participants in the longhand cohort (n=11), the differences between the groups on subsequent examinations was approximately 3.5 percentage points in favor of the longhand note-takers. There were significant differences observed between the two groups on several survey items, with longhand note takers less likely to be distracted in class and more likely to agree that other students ask to review their notes due to the quality of those notes. Conclusions Longhand note taking might facilitate more accurate recall or retrieval in test situations, thus producing improved test scores for certain types of students in certain types of courses; however additional research is needed. Faculty may consider whether modifying students' classroom note taking practices may contribute to an improved learning experience.
Climate Variability and Agricultural Price volatiliy : the case of corn and soybeans

Many studies have analysed agricultural market inst ability under different perspectives, but little attention has been given t o the effect of climate oscillations on agricultural price volatility. Climate variability, and in particular the extreme events, can alter agricultural yields and stocks, causing r elevant effects on prices. In this paper we used a Volatility Impulse Response Functio (VIRF) from a multivariate GARCH model (Hafner and Herwartz, 2006) to investig ate the effects of climate shocks variability (El Niño/Southern Oscillation ENSO) on corn and soybeans prices volatility from 1960 to 2014. Results highli ted how extreme ENSO events influence price volatility with different dynamic b etween corn and soybeans.
MEASURING DISTANCES AND REDDENINGS FOR A BILLION STARS: TOWARD A 3D DUST MAP FROM PAN-STARRS 1

We present a method to infer reddenings and distances to stars based only on their broad-band photometry, and show how this method can be used to produce a three-dimensional (3D) dust map of the Galaxy. Our method samples from the full probability density function of distance, reddening, and stellar type for individual stars, as well as the full uncertainty in reddening as a function of distance in the 3D dust map. We incorporate prior knowledge of the distribution of stars in the Galaxy and the detection limits of the survey. For stars in the Pan-STARRS 1 (PS1) 3π survey, we demonstrate that our reddening estimates are unbiased and accurate to ∼0.13 mag in E(B − V) for the typical star. Based on comparisons with mock catalogs, we expect distances for main-sequence stars to be constrained to within ∼20%–60%, although this range can vary, depending on the reddening of the star, the precise stellar type, and its position on the sky. A later paper will present a 3D map of dust over the three quarters of the sky surveyed by PS1. Both the individual stellar inferences and the 3D dust map will enable a wealth of Galactic science in the plane. The method we present is not limited to the passbands of the PS1 survey but may be extended to incorporate photometry from other surveys, such as the Two Micron All Sky Survey, the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (where available), and in the future, LSST and Gaia.
Model system studies of the influence of bacterial biofilm formation on mineral surface reactivity

Biofilm development on mineral surfaces and related changes in surface reactivity were studied using batch and flow through experiments. An artificial groundwater was used as the primary nutrient medium, Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PAO1) was the model microbial organism and ‘mineral’ surfaces were kept as simple as possible by using glass or a polished quartz tile. Experiments were also completed with very low concentrations (100 mg l−1) of iron, Fe2+ , in the solution. In situ confocal laser scanning microscopy of developing colonies during the live growth phase, and of thick, mature biofilms, revealed only sporadic coverage of biofilm cells and associated polymers at the ‘mineral–microbe interface’. Imaging and analysis of biofilm-conditioned surfaces doped with Fe2+ -rich solutions allowed the locus and form of Fe-rich mineral precipitation to be determined and show that biological surface components can cause mineral precipitation from dilute dissolved species which might otherwise remain in solution.
Effects of Substitutions of Arginine Residues on the Basic Surface of Herpes Simplex Virus UL42 Support a Role for DNA Binding in Processive DNA Synthesis

ABSTRACT The way that UL42, the processivity subunit of the herpes simplex virus DNA polymerase, interacts with DNA and promotes processivity remains unclear. A positively charged face of UL42 has been proposed to participate in electrostatic interactions with DNA that would tether the polymerase to a template without preventing its translocation via DNA sliding. An alternative model proposes that DNA binding by UL42 is not important for processivity. To investigate these issues, we substituted alanine for each of four conserved arginine residues on the positively charged surface. Each single substitution decreased the DNA binding affinity of UL42, with 14- to 30-fold increases in apparent dissociation constants. The mutant proteins exhibited no meaningful change in affinity for binding to the C terminus of the catalytic subunit of the polymerase, indicating that the substitutions exert a specific effect on DNA binding. The substitutions decreased UL42-mediated long-chain DNA synthesis by the polymerase in the same rank order in which they affected DNA binding, consistent with a role for DNA binding in polymerase processivity. Combining these substitutions decreased DNA binding further and impaired the complementation of a UL42 null virus in transfected cells. Additionally, using a revised mathematical model to analyze rates of dissociation of UL42 from DNAs of various lengths, we found that dissociation from internal sites, which would be the most important for tethering the polymerase, was relatively slow, even at ionic strengths that permit processive DNA synthesis by the holoenzyme. These data provide evidence that the basic surface of UL42 interacts with DNA and support a model in which DNA binding by UL42 is important for processive DNA synthesis.
Treatment approach in patients with hyperbilirubinemia secondary to liver metastases in gastrointestinal malignancies: a case series and review of literature

Background: Treatment of patients with severe liver dysfunction including hyperbilirubinemia secondary to liver metastases of gastrointestinal (GI) cancer is challenging. Regimen of oxaliplatin and fluoropyrimidine (FP)/folinic acid (FA) ± a monoclonal antibody (moAb), represents a feasible option considering the pharmacokinetics. Clinical data on the respective dosage and tolerability are limited and no recommendations are available. Methods: Consecutive patients with severe hyperbilirubinemia [>2 × upper limit of the normal range (ULN) and >2.4 mg/dl] due to liver metastases of GI cancer without options for drainage receiving oxaliplatin, FP/FA ± moAb were analyzed. To collect further data a review of the literature was performed. Results: A total of 12 patients were identified between 2011 and 2015. At treatment start, median bilirubin level was 6.1 mg/dl (>5 × ULN, range 2.7–13.6). The majority of patients (n = 11) received dose-reduced regimen with oxaliplatin (60–76%) and FP/FA (0–77%), rapidly escalating to full dose regimen. During treatment, bilirubin levels dropped more than 50% within 8 weeks or normalized within 12 weeks in 6 patients (responders). Median overall survival was 5.75 months (range 1.0–16.0 months) but was significantly prolonged in responders compared to nonresponders [9.7 and 3.0 months, p = 0.026 (two-sided test); 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.10–10.22]. In addition, case reports or series comprising a further 26 patients could be identified. Based on the obtained data a treatment algorithm was developed. Conclusion: Treatment with oxaliplatin, FP/FA ± moAb is feasible and may derive relevant benefits in patients with severe liver dysfunction caused by GI cancer liver metastases without further options of drainage.
DOES FINANCIAL STRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT DRIVE ECONOMIC PERFORMANCE ? THEORETICAL AND EMPIRICAL EVIDENCE FROM NIGERIA

he paper questions the extent to which financial structure development theoretically and empirically drives economic performance in Nigeria. It adopts mixed methodological framework to tease out the relationship between financial structure development and economic performance. In terms of theoretical exploration, the paper recognizes the critical nature of the financial system and outlines it role in driving economic growth. This paper integrates Bwire and Musiime (2006) and Ajadi Adegbite and Ajadi (2008) models to develop an alternative model that fits into the reality of Nigerian financial and economic environment. The study relies on secondary data and ordinary least square method to analyze the relationship between financial structure development and economic performance. The paper discovers that financial system is necessary for economic performance but outline some policy issues which distorted the potency and significant posture of the financial system in accelerating economic performance in Nigeria. The main contribution of this paper to knowledge lies on its robust engagement with debates on financial structure development and the link between finance and economic growth. This knowledge enhances our understanding about diverse models which shape financial development in theory and practice. In conclusion, the paper highlights pragmatic policy implications which will facilitate better relationship between financial systems and economic performance in Nigeria.
Hybrid Si/III-V Fabry-Perot lasers based on adiabatic mode transformers

We report the first Si/III-V Fabry-Perot laser based on adiabatic mode transformers. The investigated device operates under quasi-continuous wave regime. The room temperature threshold current is 100 mA, the side mode suppression ratio is as high as 20dB, and the fiber-coupled output power is ∼7mW.
Calcific tendinopathy of the rotator cuff. Conservative management with 434 Mhz local microwave diathermy (hyperthermia): A case study

Purpose. To report the effects of local microwave diathermy (hyperthermia) at 434 Mhz on calcific tendinopathy of the shoulder in two middle aged patients. Methods. Two middle-aged women with calcific tendinopathy of the shoulder were treated with local microwave diathermy (hyperthermia) at 434 Mhz three times a week for four weeks. Plain radiographs and ultrasonography demonstrated calcific deposits in the area of infraspinatus or supraspinatus. Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) and passive Range of Motion (ROM) were used to assess the response to treatment. Results. At the end of the treatment period, the improvement as measured by the SPADI score was respectively 30% for the first patient and 40% for the second patient with an improvement of the shoulder passive ROM for both patients. The calcific deposits seen on the initial radiographs and ultrasonography were no longer visible. At 1 year follow-up, both patients continued to be symptom free. Conclusions. Hyperthermia is a safe option in the management of calcific tendinopathy of the shoulder. Prospective randomized controlled studies with long term assessment are needed to further document its therapeutic efficacy.
Rural development reconsidered: building on comparative perspectives from China, Brazil and the European Union

In this text we reflect on the rural development processes that are currently occurring in China, Brazil and the European Union and also explicitly discuss the genesis, development and impact of different rural development policies that are associated, in a sometimes uneasy way, with these processes. We do not aim to directly compare these policies or processes. Although such comparisons might be helpful (and there is considerable ‘crossbreeding’ between the continents), we believe that such a direct comparison would require much decontextualization, which would obscure the way that most rural development processes and practices are very strongly rooted in the specificities of time and space. Instead we will focus on the following set of questions: Why is it that, since the mid 1990s, rural development policies have been formulated, implemented and provided with considerable resources in widely differing sociopolitical settings? Is this mere coincidence? Or, are we facing a ‘structural’ phenomenon that reflects extensive and persistent changes in needs and expectations (and in underlying societal patterns)? How can we explain the paradox that rural development policies, although almost always accompanied by eloquent statements and policy outlines, seem to be rather vague and lack specificity? And why is rural development policy part of a somewhat uneasy marriage of conventional agrarian policies and a newly emerging paradigm of rural development? What are, regardless of the many differences in context, the main similarities of the three different sets of rural development policies? And, associated with this, what are the specific rural development processes that are being developed in the field? And, what are the interrelations between these policies and processes? Is it possible to explain why the combination of policy and practice has a considerably different impact – not only between the different continents, but also within the individual territories (as is e.g. the case the between different regions of Brazil such as Rio Grande do Sul and the North East of Brazil). And finally, within this differentiated impact can we identify elements that might be promising for the multidimensional crisis that is currently asphyxiating world agriculture?
Histological patterns in drug-induced liver disease

The diagnosis of drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is a challenging problem, often confounded by incomplete clinical information and the difficulty of eliciting exposure to herbal products, over-the-counter agents and toxins. The task is further rendered difficult on biopsy, as drugs can mimic all the patterns found in primary liver disease. Acute hepatitis, with or without cholestasis, is the most common histological pattern of DILI, and drugs such as acetaminophen are the leading causes of acute liver failure. Most cases of DILI resolve on discontinuation of the drug, but recovery can take months or rarely the disease can progress despite drug withdrawal. Drugs such as methotrexate can lead to chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis, while others such as minocycline, nitrofurantoin and methyldopa are implicated in autoimmune hepatitis. Prolonged cholestasis and ductopenia resembling primary chronic biliary disease can occur. Drug-induced steatohepatitis is also an uncommon pattern, but is well described with drugs such as amiodarone and irinotecan. In the presence of risk factors such as obesity and diabetes, some drugs such as tamoxifen, oestrogens and nifedipine can precipitate or exacerbate steatohepatitis. Other observed patterns include granulomatous hepatitis, vascular injury (eg, sinusoidal obstruction syndrome), Ito cell lipidosis and neoplasms (eg, adenomas).
Effects of Racism and Discrimination on Personality Development among African American Male Repeat Offenders

Throughout history in the United States, the African American community has consistently been the victim of social policies put in place to disenfranchise this With a longstanding presence of systemic racism and discrimination, the criminal justice system and the dominant culture continues to pathologize this minority group and advocate for increased penalties which further stigmatize African Americans, particularly males in this group (Reiman, 1996; Russell, 1998). Though most criminology research focuses on higher rates of criminal offending within the African American population as the result of the intersection of race, poverty, education, and employment (Russell, 1996), few studies take into account the potential effects that regular exposure to racial discrimination may have on this population. Even fewer take into account how one's experience with racism and discrimination may impact personality development. The purpose of the study is to investigate a proposed causal link between racism and discrimination on criminal recidivism, using personality as an indirect variable to support this potential relationship. To do so, the study focuses on the criminal offending of an African American male population within a county probation system to explore how one's experience with racism and discrimination leads to the development of certain personality traits which then impact their criminal recidivism. As there is a significant dearth in the literature about the effects of racism and discrimination on this population, this study will provide a unique area of research on a population that has often fallen victim to deficit models in the field. After exploring the traditional research about the unique experiences of the African American community as a whole, this study aims to provide another perspective as to why this population is disproportionately represented in the criminal justice system by accounting for the potential impact of individual experiences of racism and discrimination of African American males. A number of hypotheses have been generated to account for the interaction between racism, personality, and recidivism within the African American male offending population. It was hypothesized that self-reported experiences with racism and discrimination would lead to lower scored traits of warmth, self-control, and rule-consciousness and subsequently lead to higher rates of repeat offending; conversely, experiences with racism and discrimination would also lead to higher scored traits of dominance and vigilance which then would lead to higher rates of repeat offending. A path analysis will be conducted to elucidate potential links between these variables. Structural equation models found partial …
Cointegration Tests and the Classical Dichotomy

Based on either Monte Carlo simulations, or several examples based on actual data, I show that the ability of Johansen’s tests to detect a cointegration relationship significantly deteriorates under two empirically plausible circumstances: (i ) when, in addition to a cointegration relationship, a system features one or more ‘nuisance’ series–i.e., series driven by permanent shocks different from those driving the cointegration relationship; and (ii ) when a system features multiple cointegration relationships driven by different permanent shocks, as implied (e.g.) by the Classical Dichotomy (this being a special case of (i )). These results suggest that performing Johansen’s tests based on systems featuring both real and nominal series automatically biases the tests against rejecting the null. The substantive implication for applied research is that, when searching for cointegration based on Johansen’s tests, a cointegration relationship should be tested based on the smallest system for which economic theory suggests cointegration should hold. I provide several illustrations of how failure to do so results in cointegration not being detected between (e.g.) either M1 velocity and a short-term rate; real house prices and real rents; GDP and consumption; or short- and long-term interest rates.
Chapter V FOLLICULAR DYNAMICS AND REPRODUCTIVE TECHNOLOGIES IN BUFFALO Giuseppina

a) reproductive activity may take place during the whole year or at defined seasons, according to the species and their adaptation to environmental conditions; thus, photoperiod plays a determinant role in seasonal breeders such as rodents, carnivores and ruminants (sheep, goats, buffaloes, deer, etc.,). An extreme situation is observed in foxes with only one ovulation per year, occurring in January or February;
Evaluating the utility of a commercial data source for estimating property tax amounts

This paper investigates the utility of a commercial property tax data from CoreLogic, Inc. (CoreLogic) aggregated from county and township governments from across the country, for use to improve American Community Survey (ACS) estimates of property tax amounts for single-family homes. Particularly, the research uses linkages of the CoreLogic file to the 2010 ACS to evaluate the use of CoreLogic data directly to replace survey responses for estimation of property tax amounts, potentially reducing measurement error and respondent burden. I find that the coverage of CoreLogic data varies among geographic areas across the U.S., as does the correspondence between ACS and CoreLogic property taxes. Large differences between CoreLogic and ACS property taxes in some instances may reflect conceptual differences between what is collected in the two data sources for certain counties. This research draws attentions to the challenges of using non-survey data sources that are aggregated from many state or local agencies with different practices for data collection and curation.
Bank Retail Rate Response to the Policy Rate: Time-variation, Regime-switching and Curvature

This paper explores several nonlinear aspects in the interest rate transmission mechanism on the basis of a large disaggregated sample of British monthly deposit and loan rates 19932005 for seven key products. The focus is on the adjustment speed towards the long run equilibrium rate. A sizeable proportion of UK deposits and credit products are found to have a time-varying adjustment speed, driven by the policy rate changes. Tests based on regimeswitching models indicate that the adjustment speed has four states defined by the sign of the policy rate changes and the sign of the gap. The magnitude of the policy rate changes also influences the adjustment speed in a regime-switching manner, but this nonlinear aspect is less pervasive across products than the sign asymmetry. Furthermore, mainly for deposit products there is curvature in the catch-up effect towards equilibrium ⎯ the error correction is disproportionately large for big gaps. The wide variation in the nonlinearities uncovered across financial institutions and products raises important questions about the monetary transmission and the effectiveness of monetary policy.