Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Beyond critical thinking skills: Investigating the relationship between critical thinking skills and dispositions through different online instructional strategies

The purpose of this study was to investigate (1) the relationship between critical thinking skills (CTS) and critical thinking dispositions (CTD), and (2) the effectiveness of different levels of instructional strategy (asynchronous online discussions (AODs), CTS instruction via AODs, and CTS instruction with CTD cultivation via AODs) in improving students' CTS and CTD. A pretest and posttest quasi-experimental design was employed to achieve this purpose. The participants in this study were 220 students enrolled in a general education course at a large university in Taiwan. The findings of this study were as follows: (1) the overall relationship between CTS and CTD was positive. However, further analysis of the relationship between the different levels of CTS and CTD showed that only the students with high CTS and medium CTD showed a significant correlation; (2) the enhancement in CTS reinforced CTD, but the improvement in CTD did not increase the level of CTS. In addition, it is recommended that to improve the CTS and CTD of all students (including the students with a high level of CTS), the instructional strategy, CTS instruction with CTD cultivation, be employed.
The Tridimensional Personality Questionnaire: U.S. Normative Data

The Tridimensional Personality Questionnaire is a self-report personality inventory measuring three major personality dimensions: Novelty Seeking, Harm Avoidance, and Reward Dependence. Normative data, based on a U.S. national probability sample of 1,019 adults, are presented and the psychometric properties of the questionnaire are discussed.
Adjuvant and neoadjuvant therapy for gastric cancer: taking stock of the options.

T he number of evidence-based adjuvant and neoadjuvant treatment options for gastric cancer has been increasing. This increase has given rise to a practical difﬁ-culty: How should clinicians weigh and choose among the various available options for gastric cancer? For the years, two options have been widely accepted as standards of care for gastric cancer: postoperative chemoradiation and perioperative chemotherapy. The randomized Intergroup 0116 trial showed that postoperative 5-ﬂuorouracil (5-FU)/ leucovorin–based chemoradiation increases overall survival in comparison with surgery alone. 1 A recent update of this trial, with a more than 10-year median follow-up, again showed a signiﬁcant improvement in overall survival with postoperative chemoradiation. 2 A the trial in survival with perioperative epirubicin, another standard for gastric 3
Mechanisms Governing B Cell Developmental Defects in Invariant Chain-Deficient Mice1

Invariant chain (Ii)-deficient mice exhibit profound B cell defects that have remained poorly understood, because they could not be simply explained by impaired Ag presentation. We found that Ii deficiency induced cell autonomous defects of two distinct B cell lineages. The life span of mature follicular (FO) B cells was reduced, accounting for their markedly decreased frequency, whereas, in contrast, marginal zone (MZ) B cells accumulated. Other Ii-expressing lineages such as B1 B cells and dendritic cells were unaffected. Surprisingly, the life span of FO B cells was fully corrected in Ii/I-Aβ doubly deficient mice, revealing that Ii-free I-Aβ chains alter FO B cell survival. In contrast, the accumulation of MZ B cells was controlled by a separate mechanism independent of I-Aβ. Interestingly, in Ii-deficient mice lacking FO B cells, the MZ B cells invaded the FO zone, suggesting that intact follicules contribute to the retention of B cells in the MZ. These findings reveal unexpected consequences of Ii deficiency on the development and organization of B cell follicles.
Role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the diabetes-induced anomalies in rat embryos in vitro: reduction in antioxidant enzymes and low-molecular-weight antioxidants (LMWA) may be the causative factor for increased anomalies.

A disturbed embryonic antioxidant defense mechanism may play a major role in diabetes-induced teratogenesis. We therefore studied the antioxidant capacity of 10.5-day-old rat embryos and their yolk sacs after culture for 28 hr in vitro under diabetic conditions (3 mg/ml glucose, 2 mg/ml beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHOB) and 10 microg/ml of acetoacetate), as compared with control embryos in vitro. We found a high rate of congenital anomalies, decreased growth and protein content, and a decrease in the activity of both superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) under diabetic conditions, as compared with controls. The reducing power, which reflects the concentration and type of water-soluble and of lipid-soluble low-molecular-weight antioxidants (LMWA), was measured by cyclic voltammetry. Generally, LMWA were reduced in the embryos and yolk sacs under diabetic conditions. In the water-soluble fraction of control embryos and yolk sacs, two peak potentials were found, indicating two major groups of LMWA, while only one peak potential was found under diabetic conditions, indicating that an entire group of LMWA is missing. HPLC studies have demonstrated a decrease in vitamin C (water-soluble fraction) and in vitamin E (lipid-soluble fraction) under diabetic culture conditions, and an increase in uric acid. Generally, the concentration of LMWA was higher in the embryos than in the yolk sac. LMWA concentration, protein content, and antioxidant enzyme activity were lower in the malformed experimental embryos than in experimental embryos without anomalies. The addition of vitamins C and E to the diabetic culture medium abolished the deleterious effects of the diabetic serum on the embryos. The disturbed antioxidant defense mechanism under diabetic conditions may be explained, at least in part, by a direct effect of diabetic metabolic factors on the activity of antioxidant enzymes and on the concentration of reducing equivalents. This, in turn, may be embryotoxic.
Postoperative hyperglycemia and atrial fibrillation after coronary artery bypass graft surgery.

BACKGROUND Postoperative atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common complication following coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). We investigated the risk factors for postoperative AF and analyzed the relationship between blood sugar concentration (BS) and AF after CABG. METHODS AND RESULTS A total of 199 consecutive patients who underwent isolated CABG were retrospectively examined and classified according to the presence (n=95) or absence (n=104) of postoperative AF. On univariate analysis mean postoperative BS (P<0.001), postoperative drainage volume (P<0.001), age (P=0.034), presence of diabetes mellitus (DM; P=0.004), and postoperative estimated glomerular filtration rate (P=0.032) were significant risk factors for postoperative AF. On multivariate analysis mean postoperative BS (OR, 1.041; 95% CI: 1.008-1.079; P<0.001), postoperative drainage volume (OR, 1.003; 95% CI: 1.001-1.006; P=0.001), and age (OR, 1.040; 95% CI: 1.002-1.083; P=0.041) were significant risk factors for postoperative AF. Postoperative AF often occurred in patients with high postoperative BS, irrespective of DM. The BS cut-off that predicted postoperative AF occurrence was 180 mg/dl. A strong positive correlation existed between the time of the maximum postoperative BS and AF onset time (ρ=0.746). CONCLUSIONS Mean postoperative BS and postoperative drainage volume are risk factors for AF after CABG. AF was strongly associated with maximum postoperative BS. Intensive glycemic control could reduce AF occurrence after CABG.
Effects & techniques

In this chapter we present the techniques and algorithms used for compelling storytelling in the context of the StarCraft II© real-time strategy game. We will go over some of the design goals for the technology used to empower our artists for both in- game and "story mode" settings as well as describe how the Blizzard art style influenced the design of the engine. Various aspects of our lighting pipeline will be unveiled, with a strong focus on several techniques making use of deferred buffers for depth, normals, and coloring components. We will show how these deferred buffers were used to implement a variety of effects such as deferred lighting, screen-space ambient occlusion and depth of field effects. Approaches with respect to shadows will also be discussed.
Genetic Testing for Cancer Risk: A Population Survey on Attitudesand Intention

Objective: Genetic testing for cancer risk will shortly enter medical practice. Our intent was to increase the understanding of the public’s attitudes towards and potential demand for genetic testing. Methods: We conducted a random-digit-dial survey of 1,450 adults in Washington State to assess the public’s attitudes toward genetic testing for cancer risk and to investigate correlates of intention to be tested for breast cancer risk (women) and prostate cancer risk (men). No specific genes were mentioned, as the intent of the survey was to understand the general interest in screening for genetic risks. The survey addressed familiarity with genetic testing, intention to be tested for breast or prostate cancer risk (when tests become available), benefits and risks associated with genetic tests, and who should have access to test results. Results: Most respondents expressed the intention to be tested for breast or prostate cancer risk (women 76%, men 83%). Most women (83%) and men (74%) would give the results to their primary care physician, but fewer believed that the test results should be available to their employer (women 5%, men 9%), their health insurer (women 32%, men 31%), or family members (women 42%, men 43%). Over 60% worried that discrimination could arise from genetic testing. Correlates of intention to be tested for breast cancer (women) included a family history of breast cancer, lower education, poor health, a history of mammography screening, and more physician visits in the past year. Among men, correlates of intention to test for prostate cancer included higher income, previous cancer diagnosis, a history of PSA screening, and more physician visits in the past year. Respondents who strongly believed in the benefits of genetic testing, who perceived themselves at greater risk for having a gene that increases risk, or who were less worried about discrimination expressed greater intent to be tested. Conclusions: Our survey suggests that the demand for genetic tests for cancer risk may be high, although confidentiality of test results is a major concern. Health care providers, genetic counselors, and research institutions should prepare strategies and policies for genetic testing and counseling as these tests enter general medical practice.
Detection of nitric oxide in culture media and studies on nitric oxide formation by marine microalgae.

BACKGROUND Multiple functions of nitric oxide (NO) in organisms and its special function and role in the atmosphere were investigated. In this study, marine microalga culture-medium NO concentrations were detected and studied in order to find the laws governing NO release by marine microalgae and relevant material was collected for discussion on the production mechanisms. MATERIAL/METHODS NO concentrations in culture media of the marine microalgae Platymonas subcordiformis, Skeletonema costatum, and Gymnodinium sp. were detected and other media parameters, such as nutrients concentrations, Chl-a, alga cell density, and pH, were also measured concurrently. RESULTS The NO concentrations in culture media of the marine microalgae Platymonas subcordiformis, Skeletonema costatum, and Gymnodinium sp. were detected and found to be about 10(-8)-10(-9) mol/l. The relationships between NO and nutrients and NO and pH were discussed. It was found that "NO" could serve as the message factor of microalga growth status. Experiments showed that factors affecting alga growth, such as trace elements, light, temperature, and salinity, all affected the culture-medium NO concentration. At the same time, an environmental stimulus could give rise to sudden NO peaks, with NO being a signal molecule of marine microalga stress response. CONCLUSIONS These results indicated that low concentrations of NO were produced by marine phytoplankton (microalgae) under the condition of normal growth. NO is a message factor of microalga growth and is also a signal molecule of stress response.
Overexpression of the MET/HGF receptor in ovarian cancer

The MET oncogene encodes the receptor for Hepatocyte Growth Factor/Scatter Factor, a unique growth factor that induces not only proliferation of epithelial cells, but also cell motility and invasiveness. DNA level and expression of the Met/HGF receptor gene were examined with Southern‐ and Western‐blot analyses, respectively, in human ovary, benign ovarian tumors and epithelial ovarian carcinomas. The Met/HGF receptor was detectable in the surface epithelium of normal ovary. The level of expression was unchanged in benign ovarian tumors of various origins. Fourteen out of 67 malignant carcinomas (20%) showed a 3‐to 10‐fold increase in expression. In 5 additional cases the Met/HGF protein was overexpressed over 50‐fold. This represents a total of 28% of cases. Overexpression was not associated with MET gene amplification. Overexpressing tumors belonged to different histotypic variants, but showed a well‐differentiated phenotype. Clinically, overexpression was associated with disease at any pathologic stage, but was significantly correlated with premenopausal status of patients. These data suggest that expression of the Met/HGF receptor may add a selective growth advantage to a narrow subset of differentiated ovarian cancers in premenopausal patients.
The TALENT Study

Current guidelines on antihypertensive treatment emphasize the importance of combination drug treatment for achieving a full blood pressure control. The TALENT Study, involving more than 400 high-risk hypertensive patients, aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety profile of nifedipine gastrointestinal therapeutic system (GITS) 20 mg/telmisartan 80 mg combination, as compared to the single monotherapies. After 8 weeks, ambulatory blood pressure values were significantly more reduced by the combination treatment than by single monotherapies. These potentiated blood-pressure-lowering effects were mirrored by a higher trough-to-peak ratio and smoothness index. They were also accompanied by: i) significantly greater blood pressure (particularly systolic) control; ii) a greater ability of combination drug treatment to achieve a controlled blood pressure at a time earlier than that found in single monotherapies; and iii) a better side-effects profile.
The role of glass ionomer cement on the remineralization of infected dentin: an in vivo study.

PURPOSE This study's purpose was to investigate the effect of a glass ionomer cement as a liner over infected unexcavated dentin after 60 days and at 10 to 15 months. METHODS Forty-five permanent molars with deep carious lesions were selected. Fragments of carious dentin were removed prior to lining the cavity (baseline sample) with glass ionomer cement (G1) or an inert wax material (G2). Cavities were restored with composite resin and reopened 60 days later, when other fragments were removed (60-day sample). The dentin morphology (scanning electron microscopy) and mineral content of calcium, phosphorus, and fluorine were assessed. During the follow-up periods (60 days and 10 to 15 months), restorations were evaluated and standardized radiographs were taken. A postprocessing routine was used to identify changes in the radiographic density between periods. RESULTS After 60 days, the dentin exhibited a better organization, fewer bacteria, and signs of remineralization. The weight percents of calcium and phosphorus were higher 60 days after the cavity sealing, regardless of the group. Higher gray levels of carious and sound dentin were seen on the 10- to 15-month radiographs, irrespective of the group. The success rates of G1 and G2 were 89 percent and 88 percent, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The lining material isn't fundamental for caries arrestment. Early (60-day) and late (10 to 15 months) dentin changes occurred, indicating the remineralization of dentin carious tissue.
Overexpression of HSP70 in mouse skeletal muscle protects against muscle damage and age‐related muscle dysfunction

Ageing is associated with skeletal muscle atrophy, a deficit in force generation, an increased susceptibility to contraction‐induced injury, and a permanent force deficit following severe injury. Muscles of young mice adapt rapidly following exercise by an increase in the production of heat shock proteins (HSPs), whereas muscles of old mice show a severely diminished response. We hypothesized that overexpression of HSP70 in muscle throughout life would reduce age‐related changes in function. The maximum tetanic force of extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscles of adult and old wild‐type (WT) and HSP70 overexpressor transgenic mice was determined. EDL muscles were subjected to damaging lengthening contractions and the ability to generate force was assessed for up to 28 days following the contractions. Overexpression of HSP70 in muscles of old transgenic mice prevented the specific force deficit observed in muscles of old WT mice. The complete recovery of muscles of old HSP70 transgenic mice by 14 days following the contraction protocol was in contrast to the 44% force deficit, which remained in muscles of old WT mice at 28 days following the protocol. These data indicate that a diminished production of HSP70 in muscles of old mammals has a major effect on age‐related functional deficits.
The boundaries of urban metabolism

This paper considers the limits and potential of ‘urban metabolism’ to conceptualize city processes. Three ‘ecologies’ of urban metabolism have emerged. Each privileges a particular dimension of urban space, shaped by epistemology, politics, and model-making. Marxist ecologies theorize urban metabolism as hybridized socio-natures that (re)produce uneven outcomes; industrial ecology, as stocks and flows of materials and energy; and urban ecology, as complex socio-ecological systems. We demarcate these scholarly islands through bibliometric analysis and literature review, and draw on cross-domain mapping theory to unveil how the metaphor has become stagnant in each. To reinvigorate this research, the paper proposes the development of political–industrial ecology, using urban metabolism as a boundary metaphor.
Knowledge Regarding Childhood Asthma among Mothers of Asthmatic Children Presenting to a Selected Hospital, Bangalore, South India

Background: The incidence of asthma is increasing among children and poor parent’s knowledge often contributes to increase in morbidity and mortality. Aim: This study aimed to assess the knowledge regarding asthma among mothers of children suffering and admitted with asthma. Methods and materials: This was a cross sectional study conducted in a rural hospital between March and August 2011. Forty mothers were selected using non-probability convenient sampling technique. Structured interview questionnaire was used to collect the data. Results: Most of the mothers 28 (70%) were above the age of 30 years, 17 (42.5%) were uneducated. The knowledge regarding asthma was inadequate among 13 (32.5%) of mothers. The findings revealed that there was no statistically significant association between level of knowledge with age, educational status and occupation. Conclusions: Improved knowledge may help adopt better practices among parents especially among mothers of children with asthma and also help bridge the existing gap between recommended and actual practice regarding childhood asthma.
2-walks in 3-connected Planar Graphs

In this we prove that every 3-connected planar graph has closed walk each vertex, none more than twice, such that any vertex visited twice is in a vertex cut of size 3. This both Tutte's Theorem that 4-connected planar graphs are Hamiltonian and the result of Gao and Richter that 3-connected planar graphs have a closed walk visiting each vertex at least once but at most twice.
Which is the better marker for susceptibility to disease later in life – low birthweight or prematurity?

Substantial evidence implicates both premature birth and low birthweight as risk factors for cardiovascular and other adult-onset diseases such as impaired glucose regulation and hypertension. However, a persistent criticism of such studies is the likelihood of confounding by genetic factors. Shared genetic influences may be behind both low birthweights and increased risks of cardiovascular disease into adulthood, an issue that has not been satisfactorily addressed. It is also unclear whether low birthweight or prematurity is the better marker of early life disadvantage and susceptibility for later-life diseases. Twin studies are useful in answering the first issue because monozygotic and dizygotic twins provide a genetic “control” …
Wide dynamic range and high SNR self-reset CMOS image sensor using a Schmitt trigger

A simple and robust self-reset image sensor design using Schmitt trigger circuit is presented. Offset and reset delay accumulations are compensated effectively so that a self-reset CMOS image sensor can exploit signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) improvement along with its wide dynamic range under multiple resets. It has been designed and simulated using 0.18 mum CMOS technology to show SNR improvement of 22.8 dB with 1000 self-resets. It also provides low power consumption and fewer components for pixel-level image sensor design.
Clinical and molecular genetic characterization of wild-type MLL infant acute lymphoblastic leukemia identifies few recurrent abnormalities

Wild-type MLL infant acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patients account for approximately 20% of all infant ALL cases. Although this group of patients generally fares better than MLL-rearranged infant ALL patients, their prognosis is still worse than that of non-infant pediatric B-ALL patients. Extensive characterization of this specific patient group largely remains unacknowledged. In this study, we aim to obtain a clinical and molecular profile of this patient group in order to find new opportunities to optimize treatment. We report on a large cohort of 78 wild-type MLL infant ALL samples using clinical parameters, array-comparative genomic hybridization analysis, and gene expression profiling. The frequency of DNA copy number variations and molecular genetic lesions in genes involved in B-cell development are lower in wild-type MLL infant ALL than older children with ALL. Wild-type MLL infant ALL presented with higher white blood cell (WBC) counts and a more immature immunophenotype than pediatric (non-infant) B-ALL patients. The strongest predictor of outcome in wild-type MLL infant ALL was the level of MEIS1 expression, which may indicate new opportunities for novel strategies in treating wild-type MLL infant ALL.