Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Determinants of Mammographic Density Change

Abstract Background Mammographic density (MD) is a strong risk factor for breast cancer. We examined how breast cancer risk factors are associated with MD area (cm2) change across age. Methods We conducted a cohort study of 31 782 Swedish women ages 40–70 years at time of baseline mammogram. Lifestyle and reproductive risk factors were assessed by a web-based questionnaire. MD was measured as dense area using the STRATUS method (mean over the left and right breast). Linear regression analyses with adjustments for age, body mass index (BMI), and menopausal status at baseline were performed to assess the association between breast cancer risk factors and mean baseline MD. To investigate mean MD change across age, linear regression analyses with adjustments for age, BMI, menopausal status, and age at last mammogram were performed. All tests of statistical significance were two-sided. Results Except for oral contraceptive use, established lifestyle and reproductive risk factors for breast cancer were associated with baseline mean MD. The overall average annual MD change was −1.0 cm2. BMI and physical activity were statistically significantly associated with MD change. Lean women (BMI <20 kg/m2) had a mean MD change of −1.13 cm2 per year (95% confidence interval = −1.25 to −1.02) compared with −0.46 cm2 per year (95% confidence interval = −0.57 to −0.35) for women with BMI 30 or higher. The annual MD change was −0.4 cm2 larger in women who were very physically active compared with less physically active women. Conclusions Our results indicate that all risk factors for breast cancer, except oral contraceptive use, are associated with baseline MD but that only age, BMI, and physical activity are determinants of MD change.
Analysis of the glycine binding domain of the NMDA receptor channel ζ1 subunit

IN an attempt to examine glycine binding domain of the ζ1 subunit of the mouse N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor channel, we constructed N-terminal or C-terminal deletion mutants of the ζ1 subunit cDNA and expressed them in Spodoptera frugiperda cells using a baculovirus system. Analysis of binding of a glycine binding site antagonist, 5,7-[3-3H]dichlorokynurenate ([3H]DCKA) to the deleted ζ1 mutants provided the first direct experimental evidence that the regions of N-terminal 282 and C-terminal 102 amino acid residues do not significantly affect glycine binding, and that both the region of ∼260 amino acid residues preceding the putative transmembrane segment M1 and the region between the segments M3 and M4 are required to form the glycine binding domain.
THE SUBSEQUENT EFFCT OF SILICON ON PHYSIOLOGICAL AND BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS OF Polygonatum multiflorum (L.) All. 'Variegatum' CUT SHOOTS

The aim of the undertaken research was to establish the subsequent effect of silicon, which is the component in Actisil Hydro Plus preparation, and the place of culti- vation on the postharvest quality of Solomon's Seal (Polygonatum multiflorum 'Variega- tum'). Plants were cultivated directly in the field or in an unheated foil tunnel. The prepa- ration was used as a sixfold spray in three concentrations: 0.2, 0.3 and 0.4% during the plants vegetation, at weekly intervals. The control were plants sprayed with distilled wa- ter. Leafy shoots were cut at the moment of becoming morphologically mature and placed in distilled water in a controlled thermal-lightning conditions: temperature was 21/18oC (day/night) and photoperiod of 12 h light/12 h darkness. The condition of cytoplasmic membrane was evaluated with the use of analysis of electrolyte leakage and determining the level of peroxidation of membrane lipids. The analyses of assimilation pigments (chlorophyll a + b) and proline content, the relative water content as well as postharvest longevity were established. Leafy shoots of P. multiflorum cultivated in an unheated tun- nel, regardless of the spray with Actisil Hydro Plus, characterized with longer lasting decorative value. The lowest proline content in tissues after 30 days were observed in leaves obtained from plants cultivated in foil tunnel and sprayed with Actisil Hydro Plus in concentration of 0.2 and 0.3%. During the analysis conducted 30 days after starting the experiment, the most effective stop of membrane lipids peroxidation was observed in shoots obtained from plants cultivated in foil tunnel and sprayed with Actisil in concentra- tion of 0.2%. Cultivation of P. multiflorum in foil tunnel and spray with preparation in concentration of 0.3% inhibited assimilation pigments degradation the most effectively.
Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in canines

A serological survey for Toxoplasmosis in dogs (n = 305) was conducted using a Latex agglutination test (LAT). The overall seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in canines was 46.88 per cent. A total of 59 dogs were found seropositive by LAT at 1:256 titre giving an evidence of presence of infection. The seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis was inversely related to the age i.e. 52 % at 6 months and 32.5 % at 4 years and above. Non significant difference was observed in seropositivity between males (40%) and females (53.12) % and between exotic (46.15%) and local (57.14%) breeds. However significant variation in seropositivity was found between stray dogs (83.33%) and pet dogs (37.95 %) and between dogs having close contact with cats (55%) and with out cats (24.34%). Out of the tested bitches 60% were seropositive, mostly at 1:16 titre indicating residual immunity.
Relationships among students’ perceptions of a first-year engineering design course and their engineering identification, motivational beliefs, course effort, and academic outcomes

The MUSIC Model of Academic Motivation and a model of domain identification have been shown to be useful models to explainstudents’ motivation. We used these models to examine the extent to which students’ perceptions of a first-year engineeringcornerstone course affected their engineering identification and motivational beliefs (i.e., engineering utility, engineering programbelonging, and engineering program expectancy), as well as the extent to which students’ engineering identification andmotivational beliefs affected their course effort, course grades, and engineering major and career goals. We surveyed 365 first-yearengineering students enrolled in an introductory design course at a large U.S. public university. A series of structural equationmodels were estimated, with each model answering a different question and examining a different outcome. The results provideevidence to support the validity of the MUSIC model and model of domain identification with a sample of undergraduateengineering students. This evidence includes the fact that significant relationships existed between variables that the model predictedshould be related, such as course perceptions, domain identification, motivational beliefs, effort, and academic outcomes. Becausestudents’ perceptions of the MUSIC model components in the engineering course were related to students’ engineeringidentification and motivational beliefs, it might be possible to develop course curricula and methods directed towards the MUSICcomponents that could foster these important academic outcomes.
Higher Abundance of Ammonia Oxidizing Archaea than Ammonia Oxidizing Bacteria and Their Communities in Tibetan Alpine Meadow Soils under Long-term Nitrogen Fertilization

Increasing usage of nitrogen fertilizer for food production has resulted in severely environmental problems of nutrients enrichment. This study aimed to examine the response of ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) and ammonia-oxidizing archaea (AOA) to a long-term nitrogen fertilization in Tibetan alpine meadow. The abundance and composition of both AOB and AOA were assessed using quantitative real-time PCR, cloning and sequencing techniques based on amoA gene under different fertilization gradient (0, 30, 60, 90, and 120 g m−2 year−1). Our results showed that, abundances of AOA amoA genes (ranging from 1.48 × 109 to 2.00 × 109 copies per gram of dry soil) were significantly higher than those of AOB amoA genes (1.25 × 107 to 2.62 × 108 copies per gram of dry soil) under fertilization scenario. The abundance of AOB amoA genes increased with increasing nitrogen fertilization, whereas fertilization had little effect on AOA abundance. Sequences of clone libraries of the different treatments revealed that AOB communities were dominated by representatives of Cluster 4, constituting 48.94–64.44% in each clone library. Sequences of Clusters 9, 1 and 2 were prevalent in soils under higher fertilization. All archaeal amoA sequences recovered were affiliated with the soil/sediment clade and marine sediment clade, and no significant difference was observed on the community structure among different fertilization treatments. Variations in the AOB community structure and abundance were linked to ammonium-N and soil pH induced by different fertilization treatments. These results showed that the abundance and structure of the AOB community respond to the fertilization gradient, not AOA.
Ecological Implications of Belowground Morphology of Nine Coniferous Forest Herbs

The morphology of forest herbs was examined to determine how variation in growth form could relate to growth and survival in the forest. Five to 10 plants of nine herbaceous species were totally excavated in old-growth forests in the central Oregon Cascade Mountains. Underground parts were mapped, measured, oven-dried, and weighed. Additional information was derived from sites in the southern Washington Cascades. Achlys triphylla, Clintonia uniflora, and Smilacina stellata maintain extensive rhizome systems with both short and long shoots. This growth form allows these species flexibility in exploiting the forest environment. The three species differed in rate of extension growth and rooting depth. Arnica latifolia spreads by long rhizomes, which persist for only a few years; thus, extensive interconnected stem systems do not develop. Rubus lasiococcus and Linnaea borealis have extensive stolon systems with greater potential rates of spread than the three rhizomatous species. Although they expand rapidly under favorable conditions, they may be displaced by taller herbs. Rubus has larger and deeper roots than Linnaea. Tiarella trifoliata, Valeriana sitchensis, and Erythronium montanum have minimal vegetative spread. Plants of these three species often included the original seedling structure, indicating that seedling establishment is relatively frequent. On the six species with extensive vegetative spread, we never found a seedling source; genets are older than 5-36 yr, and new genet establishment appears to be uncommon. The differences in growth form among the species help to explain their ability to survive and coexist in the heterogeneous forest floor environment.
Comparing Selection Method in Course Scheduling Using Genetic Algorithm

— Selection technique is an important operator in genetic algorithm (GA). Defining the best selection technique is critical in order to get the optimum solution for certain problem. The purpose of this study was to compare 3 selection techniques in high school scheduling problem using distributed GA (DGA). The selection techniques implemented in this study were roulette wheel, tournament and truncation selection. The migration probabilities used in DGA was 0.5. The results showed that the best selection method in avoiding early convergence is the tournament method
Augmented Radiology: Looking Over the Horizon.

Sign posts regarding the transition from volume to value are ubiquitous in health care. Current efforts to create value are guided by the triple aim: improve patient outcomes and enhance patient experience while decreasing the cost of care (1). This has prompted a shift toward population health management (PHM), which leverages data-driven technology, effective change management, and workflow optimization to promote sustainable care delivery models (2). Meaningful achievement of these goals represents the greatest challenge of our health care era. Radiology as a profession is no stranger to transformation and reinvention. The field has successfully navigated discrete epochs in its history beginning with Imaging 1.0, a period of discovery from 1920 to 1990 initiated by Wilhelm Roentgen and culminating in a technical revolution with advent of CT and MRI. The widespread picture archiving and communication system implementation in the 1990s ignited a dramatic surge in efficiency and productivity, and the profession flourished as a revenue center in a fee-for-service payment system. However, this era is referred to as the dark era of Imaging 2.0 because of the unintended consequences of increased isolation from our patients, health care teams, and referring providers. In recognition of this void in the evolving practice of radiology, the Imaging 3.0 campaign was launched to foster collaboration between radiologists, patients, referring physicians, and other key stakeholders in the pursuit of appropriate, evidence-based imaging and management (3). Born in a military setting, over-the-horizon radar systems were developed during the Cold War to improve safety by increasing time available for protective action by detecting threats long before traditional radar or line of sight. The rapidly changing health care environment and advent of technologies evoke an analogous need and vision for radiology. It is thus appropriate to speculate about the next era to shape our collective preparation and response. The breakneck pace of advances in data science and the inability of the legacy health care system to meet increasingly complex demands has led many thought leaders in the field to identify artificial intelligence (AI) as this next frontier. In general terms, AI allows machines to process information, recognize patterns, and refine existing models to learn, solve problems, and perform specific tasks. This iterative process relies on machine learning, which leverages self-correcting algorithms to interpret vast amounts of data and make rapid predictions (4). The concept of AI and uncertainty around its impact understandably create angst for some radiologists. After all, interpretation of medical images has recently become a Augmented Radiology: Looking Over the Horizon
Effect of Cold Pressor Test on Reaction Time

The purpose of this study was to examine variation in reaction time when a Cold Pressor Test (CPT) was administered. The three minute CPT was conducted in attempt to increase a person’s sympathetic response. Heart rate and blood pressure measurements were recorded throughout the test to accurately monitor participant’s response. In the study, the CPT was paired with an audio reaction time test conducted during the first and third minute of the experiment. The recorded measurements were then compared to the subjects’ baseline heart rate, blood pressure, and reaction time to determine statistical significance. It was found that average initial heart rate increased (n=37, p=6.14E-7<0.05), however the average mean arterial blood pressure (MABP) showed no significant change, thus leading to inconclusiveness in the degree of sympathetic activation due to the CPT. Compared to the average reaction time in room temperature water, the average reaction time during the cold pressor test decreased (n=37, p=0.0307<0.05), suggesting that the CPT had an effect on the reaction time of the individual. Further studies that also increase the sympathetic response could be conducted in order to allow for a better comparison between sympathetic response and reaction time.
Self-concept and recovery : the effects of stigma on survivors of sex trafficking

Survivors of sex trafficking often face complex and complicated situations upon exiting. Stigmatization is a barrier that challenges efforts to heal and rebuild relationships. This study aimed to identify how survivors of trafficking understand the stigma from their families and communities, and how this experience of stigma affects their overall sense of self-concept and belief in their ability to cope and overcome their predicament. Results from interviews with 6 survivors of trafficking indicate that survivors carry multiple layers of stigma that are worsened by the addition of stigma associated with being trafficked for prostitution. Negative evaluations about the woman maintain attitudes that exclude and separate her from social and employment opportunities. However, many of the participants described having the ability to draw from their personal strength and resources to overcome stigma. Recommendations for providers and implications for future research are provided.
Nonenzymatic Browning in Apple Juice Concentrate during Storage

Rate of browning in Red Delicious and Granny Smith apple juice concentrates during storage was investigated. Color development at 65°, 70° and 75°Brix and storage temperatures of 5°, 20° and 37°C were compared over 120 days. Color deterioration occured at a faster rate in Red Delicious. Reaction at different concentration and storage conditions was exponential, following an Arrhenius-type dependence with temperature. Activation energy for a solids content of 65 - 75°Brix ranged from 16.4 - 19.3 Kcal/mole. Influence of juice variety on activation energy was negligible. Water activity results are in general agreement with those reported by other investigators. A satisfactory correlation to predict commercial concentrate browning has been obtained. All other things being equal, thermal history is a critical factor to obtain a lighter color concentrate.
Evaluating the effects of sub-lethal acidification on wild populations of juvenile Atlantic salmon

One of the many environmentally deleterious effects of industrialization is the acidification of freshwater, which results in part from precipitative inputs of anthropogenic pollutants. Considerable effort has been allocated to the study and remediation of severely acidified aquatic systems, with the effects of weak levels of acidification (pH 6 – pH 7) on biological communities having received less attention. One effect that has been studied is the chemical mediation of predator-prey interactions in freshwater and marine fishes. Following mechanical damage to the epidermis, as would likely occur during a predation event, many taxa release chemical alarm cues which elicit antipredator responses from conspecifics and other opportunistic receivers subject to similar levels of predation risk and potentially enhance the survival of alarm cue receivers during subsequent interactions with predators. Under weakly acidic conditions (pH < 6.6), these chemical alarm cues are rendered non-functional and do not elicit alarm responses from conspecific or heterospecific receivers. Weak acidification effectively deprives prey fishes of one source of chemosensory information on ambient risk levels. Here, I describe a series of field experiments designed to evaluate the effects of this environmentally-mediated loss of information on wild populations of juvenile Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) in four acidic and five neutral streams in the Miramichi River system, New Brunswick, Canada. Acid-impacted Atlantic salmon in these experiments demonstrated a loss of response to conspecific and heterospecific chemical alarm cues, as well as significantly greater responses to remaining (visual) threat cues than salmon under neutral conditions. Fish in neutral streams appeared to demonstrate additive responses to multiple risky cues consistent with dynamic threat-sensitivity and the sensory complementation hypothesis, whereas fish in acidic streams demonstrated non-threat-sensitive responses consistent with the absence of sensory complementation and greater value being assigned to information received through visual cues. Contrary to predictions, juvenile salmon do not appear to suffer increased mortality through predation as a result of this loss of information, nor do they experience negative growth effects resulting from temporal trade-offs between antipredator and foraging behaviours. Rather, acid-impacted Atlantic salmon demonstrated behavioural compensation through increased preference for complex habitats which offer greater abundance of physical refugia and limit line-of-sight for visually foraging predators, effectively mitigating the increased risk of predation associated with limited information.
Isolation of Resistance Gene Analogues from Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida L.)

Cloned resistance (R) genes from a broad range of plant species are known to share similarities in DNA sequences and structural motifs. Oligonucleotide primers, designed to conserved regions of nucleotide binding site (NBS) motifs within previously cloned pathogen resistance genes, were used to amplify resistance gene analogues (RGAs) from dogwood. Twenty eight unique dogwood RGA sequences were identified and subdivided into 11 groups on the basis of nucleic acid sequence-identity of approximately 70% or greater. Phylogenetic analysis of the predicted amino acid sequences grouped the RGAs into three distinct classes from which several subgroups were delineated based on nucleic acid sequences. Gene database searches with the consensus protein sequences of each of the three classes and respective subgroups of dogwood RGAs revealed their conserved NBS domains and homology to RGAs and known resistance genes from a variety of plant genera. Given the complete lack of knowledge regarding molecular organization of R genes in dogwood, the cloned RGAs described here may be useful as probes to map, characterize, and manipulate R genes of the dogwood genome.
Training of pathology laboratory technicians - a systematic review

The purpose of this paper is to present a systematic review of the training of technicians in pathology laboratories, as well as the current level of pathology technicians in the world. This paper follows the structure of the PRISMA model with slight modifications. The findings of the review indicate that recent developments such as increased application of molecular biology in pathology, ICT advancement, increased need for quality assurance, and the emergence of other important skills are some of the key factors influencing changes in the required skills and competencies for pathology technicians. These required skills and competencies are similar in all countries. However, there is a lower availability of skilled and competent pathology technicians than is needed. Among other impacts, this issue has contributed to an increased number of errors in pathology laboratories during recent years, and to the inability to implement new technology in the laboratories.
The communist nuclear era : bulgarian atomic community during the Cold War, 1944-1986

• A submitted manuscript is the author's version of the article upon submission and before peer-review. There can be important differences between the submitted version and the official published version of record. People interested in the research are advised to contact the author for the final version of the publication, or visit the DOI to the publisher's website. • The final author version and the galley proof are versions of the publication after peer review. • The final published version features the final layout of the paper including the volume, issue and page numbers.