Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Meta-Analysis of Adiponectin Polymorphisms and Colorectal Cancer Risk

Objective The adiponectin gene (ADIPOQ) has been suggested to be associated with the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the results have been inconsistent. In this study, we performed a meta-analysis to investigate the association between adiponectin polymorphisms and CRC risk. Methods All eligible case-control studies published up to March 2013 were identified by searching PubMed, Web of Science and CNKI. Effect sizes of odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) were calculated by using a fixed- or random-effect model. Results A total of 9 case-control studies were included, Of those studies, there were eight studies (2024 cases and 2777 controls) for rs1501299G/T polymorphism, five studies (1401 cases and 1691 controls) for rs2241766T/G polymorphism, five studies (2945 cases and 3361 controls) for rs266729C/G polymorphism, three studies (1221 cases and 1579 controls) for rs822395A/C polymorphism and three studies (1222 cases and 1575 controls) for rs822396A/G polymorphism. Overall, a significant association was observed for rs2241766T/G polymorphism under heterozygote comparison (TG vs. TT: OR=1.22, 95%CI: 1.05-1.43); while there was no significant association for rs2241766 polymorphism under other genetic models, and for other four polymorphisms under all genetic models. Besides, when stratified analyses by ethnicity, no significant association between five polymorphisms and CRC risk were observed under all genetic models among Asian, Caucasian and African-American. Conclusions This meta-analysis indicated that adiponectin rs2241766T/G rather than rs1501299G/T, rs266729C/G, rs822395A/C and rs822396A/G polymorphism was associated with the risk of colorectal cancer.
Specific detection of Salmonella spp. by multiplex polymerase chain reaction

Three sets of oligonucleotide primers were used in the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay to detect Salmonella species. phoP primers specific to the phoP/phoQ loci of coliform pathogenic bacteria such as Salmonella, Shigella, Escherichia coli, and Citrobacter species served as presumptive indicators of enteric bacteria. In addition to the phoP primers, the Hin and the H-1i primers, which targeted a 236-bp region of hin/H2 and a 173-bp region of the H-1i flagellin gene, respectively, were used. Both Hin and H-1i primers are specific to motile Salmonella species and are not present in Shigella, E. coli, or Citrobacter species. Thus, by multiplex PCR amplification, Salmonella species including Salmonella typhi, Salmonella typhimurium, Salmonella paratyphi A, and Salmonella enteritidis can be specifically detected. Optimal reaction conditions have been described to demonstrate this specific, sensitive detection of Salmonella species. By using agarose gel electrophoresis for detection of the PCR-amplified products, the sensitivity of detection was 10(2) CFU after 25 cycles of PCR and 1 (10(0)) CFU after a 50-cycle double PCR. The efficacy of these primers was demonstrated on environmental isolates which had previously been confirmed as Salmonella species by the use of conventional cultural techniques. In addition, positive amplifications resulted from Salmonella species in environmental samples including soil and water.
Functional diversification of Argonautes in nematodes: an expanding universe

In the last decade, many diverse RNAi (RNA interference) pathways have been discovered that mediate gene silencing at epigenetic, transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. The diversity of RNAi pathways is inherently linked to the evolution of Ago (Argonaute) proteins, the central protein component of RISCs (RNA-induced silencing complexes). An increasing number of diverse Agos have been identified in different species. The functions of most of these proteins are not yet known, but they are generally assumed to play roles in development, genome stability and/or protection against viruses. Recent research in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans has expanded the breadth of RNAi functions to include transgenerational epigenetic memory and, possibly, environmental sensing. These functions are inherently linked to the production of secondary siRNAs (small interfering RNAs) that bind to members of a clade of WAGOs (worm-specific Agos). In the present article, we review briefly what is known about the evolution and function of Ago proteins in eukaryotes, including the expansion of WAGOs in nematodes. We postulate that the rapid evolution of WAGOs enables the exceptional functional plasticity of nematodes, including their capacity for parasitism.
Cooking Modernity: Nutrition Policies, Class, and Gender in 1940s and 1950s Mexico City *

As dawn broke in Mexico City's streets, steamy pots opened to offer the delicious smell of hot tamales and atole. Lupita woke up early that morning to sell tamales in the usual corner of Nino Perdido street in Mexico City's downtown. In that year, 1947, the construction of the Latin American Tower had just started. Lupita observed the builders digging deeply in the foundations while she sipped her atole and served red and green sauce tamales to her customers. In 1940s and 1950s Mexico City, workers and low-ranking bureaucrats started their day with this popular meal, as they had done since colonial times. Reformers, however, questioned the nutritional value of the working-class diet and considered it as a threat to the construction of modern Mexico.
Chapter IV: The Role of the Teacher and the Instructor in the Guidance Program

THE 1953 issue of the REVIEW devoted to guidance pointed out that there was a dearth of sound research dealing directly with the function of the classroom teacher as a participant in the total guidance activities of a school; the statement is still true. On the other hand, one finds an increasing number of informal studies which examine some phase of the teacher's responsibility in assisting pupils in or beyond a guidance setting. Some of these studies can be classified as research altho many are opinion, discussion, or a recounting of actual experiences in applying principles or technics. It is reasonable to conclude that interest in clarifying the teacher's guidance role is increasing altho further research continues to be needed.
Executive Functioning During Infancy and Childhood

Introduction Executive functions refer to a set of cognitive processes that support the regulation of thoughts, emotions and behaviours. Executive functions help us to achieve goals in our daily lives, whether planning a vacation, controlling anger or multi-tasking. They develop dramatically during infancy and childhood, and predict later success in school, health and income. They are also trainable under certain conditions. At the same time, executive functions are highly heritable, meaning that genetic differences between individuals contribute to differences between individuals in executive functions. Moreover, these differences are stable across development: Low executive functioning in childhood predicts low executive functioning decades later. Impairments in executive functions are observed in children from backgrounds of low socioeconomic status and in a variety of clinical disorders, including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, autism and depression.
Monitoring and Evaluation of African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD)

In this Exemplars case, the fifth and final under the direction of the current coeditors, we present a reflective account of an ongoing, complex, multiyear, multinational monitoring and evaluation (M&E) system conducted for African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD), an international development program. The program provides African female scientists in agriculture with professional development intended to influence the agriculture sector, and the M&E system supports a managing for impact approach to bring about change in individuals and groups in the short term and in institutions and the agricultural sector in the long term. The preparation and writing of the case was a collaborative effort of the four authors. As in the four most recent Exemplars cases, we begin with a description of the program and evaluation system, followed by an amalgamation in an interview format of the extensive evaluator– editor dialogue that occurred while preparing the case. We conclude with the authors’ reflections.
Empirical Study Of Institutions Romania

This study incorporates an institutional theory framework in which social norms affect interorganizational cooperation (IC). Empirical findings from a survey of 96 Romanian manufacturing firms support proposed hypotheses. Interorganizational trust is positively related to IC. Individualism and collectivism (indcol) exhibits a statistically significant relationship with IC. JIT/TQM presents a positive relationship and also supports the hypothesis that it serves as a superordinate goal over interorganizational trust and indcol to foster interorganizational cooperation.
ACE I/D Polymorphism in Hypertensive Patients of Kashmiri Population

Background The angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) gene in humans has an insertion-deletion (I/D) polymorphic state in intron 16 on chromosome 17q23. This polymorphism has been widely investigated in different diseases. In this study we aimed to investigate the ACE I/D genotype frequency in hypertensive cases in Kashmiri population. Materials and Methods We designed a case control study, where 52 hypertensive cases were studied for ACE I/D polymorphism against 150 age/sex matched controls taken from general population. The polymorphisms of ACE gene were investigated using polymerase chain reaction for detection of ACE I/D genotype. Fisher’s Chi square test was used for calculation of P value and OR. Results We found the frequency of ACE DD genotype to be 46.15% (24/52), II 23.07% (12/52) and DI 30.77% (16/52) in 52 hypertensive cases. Conclusions The ACE I/D genotype is positively associated with hypertension in our population.
Analog distributed coding of correlated sources for fading multiple access channels

In this work, we address the analog transmission of correlated information over fading Multiple Access Channels (MACs) using analog Joint Source Channel Coding (JSCC). We consider module-like mappings to encode the source data and the utilization of different orthogonal access schemes. The user information is individually mapped at each transmitter and the receiver exploits the source correlation and the properties of the module mappings to decode the received symbols. We also propose a Maximum-A-Posteriori (MAP) method which achieves similar performance to that of the optimal decoding with significantly lower complexity. The obtained results confirm the potential of using analog JSCC techniques to transmit correlated data over fading MACs.
Model–based analysis and reasoning in science: The MARS curriculum

Scientists and researchers in many disciplines frequently resort to modeling and model–based reasoning to concretize abstract ideas, to simplify and clarify complex phenomena, to predict trends, and to explain mechanisms and processes. National projects working to reform science education explicitly recommend the development of an appreciation for the centrality of models in the teaching and learning of science. This article describes a model–centered, computer–supported, semester–long science curriculum for middle–school students designed to encourage conceptual understanding and to foster the development of model–based reasoning skills. In the Model–based Analysis and Reasoning in Science (MARS) project, an attempt is made to create an environment conducive to fostering conceptual understanding and reasoning about scientific phenomena that involve “balance of forces. ” Visual models that are dynamic and interactive are presented not only to concretize abstract ideas but also as reasoning tools that give students the leverage to solve problems in a variety of contexts. This model–centered curriculum focuses on a network of concepts important for understanding hydrostatics; that is, floating and sinking, as an exemplar for the general principle of balance of forces. How students understand these concepts and use models as a disciplinary resource to engage in chains of reasoning that integrate concepts into networks of relations is of special interest for study. How students use that understanding in new situations within the same explanatory system is also being studied. A major pedagogical question is how middle–school students can be taught to engage in model–based reasoning, a form of reasoning that scientists routinely use. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons. Inc.
Dopamine D1 Receptor Gene Variation Modulates Opioid Dependence Risk by Affecting Transition to Addiction

Dopamine D1 receptor (DRD1) modulates opioid reinforcement, reward, and opioid-induced neuroadaptation. We propose that DRD1 polymorphism affects susceptibility to opioid dependence (OD), the efficiency of transition to OD, and opioid-induced pleasure response. We analyzed potential association between seven DRD1 polymorphisms with the following traits: duration of transition from the first use to dependence (DTFUD), subjective pleasure responses to opioid on first use and post-dependence use, and OD risk in 425 Chinese with OD and 514 healthy controls. DTFUD and level of pleasure responses were examined using a semi-structured interview. The DTFUD of opioid addicts ranged from 5 days to 11 years. Most addicts (64.0%) reported non-comfortable response upon first opioid use, while after dependence, most addicts (53.0%) felt strong opioid-induced pleasure. Survival analysis revealed a correlation of prolonged DTFUD with the minor allele-carrying genotypes of DRD1 rs4532 (hazard ratios (HR) = 0.694; p = 0.001) and rs686 (HR = 0.681, p = 0.0003). Binary logistic regression indicated that rs10063995 GT genotype (vs. GG+TT, OR = 0.261) could predict decreased pleasure response to first-time use and the minor alleles of rs686 (OR = 0.535) and rs4532 (OR = 0.537) could predict decreased post-dependence pleasure. Moreover, rs686 minor allele was associated with a decreased risk for rapid transition from initial use to dependence (DTFUD≤30 days; OR = 0.603) or post-dependence euphoria (OR = 0.603) relative to major allele. In conclusion, DRD1 rs686 minor allele decreases the OD risk by prolonging the transition to dependence and attenuating opioid-induced pleasure in Chinese.
The Relationship between Negative Career Thoughts & Emotional Intelligence

Relationships between overall emo tional intelligence (EI) as measured by the Bar-On EQi and negative career thoughts as measured by the Career Thoughts Inventory were investigated in a population of career undecided nonstudent adults. More specifically, the factors of EI most related to negative career thinking were examined, as were the type of negative career thoughts most associated with EI. Findings re vealed a significant inverse relationship between total EI and negative career thought scores. Adaptability and Intrap ersonal factors were the subscales ac counting for most of the variation in the career thoughts/EI relationship. Deci sion making-confusion was most nega tively correlated with EI scores. The results suggest that assessment of a client’s EI levels is important in career decision-making counseling.
Simple scheme for efficient linear optics quantum gates

We describe the construction of a conditional quantum control-not (CNOT) gate from linear optical elements following the program of Knill, Laflamme and Milburn [Nature {409}, 46 (2001)]. We show that the basic operation of this gate can be tested using current technology. We then simplify the scheme significantly.
Friend and Foe? Technology in a Collaborative Writing Group

This is a partial account of the journey undertaken by a group of academic nomads in search of collaborative writing space. Never intending to permanently settle anywhere, we chose to explore writing technologies that supported collaborative forms of engagement with our task and with each other. Along the way we took up with, and discarded, a variety of writing technologies. Reflecting teamwork and collective biography practices sustained our work and our commitments towards collaboration. Although we have not found any electronic technologies helpful in creating or maintaining our sense of community, they enabled collective ways of re-presenting our work to ourselves and, later, to others. Twenty of us set out and twelve* remain on this journey. The current text includes three voices, each woven from writings and silences of many members of our group, thereby including traces of us all. The text explores our relationship with electronic technology and its role in our collaborative writing venture.
IMPROVED NEURAL MODELS FOR ROUGHNESS IN HONING PROCESSES

In the present work improved neural network models for average roughness Ra in rough honing processes are studied. Four different adaptive models were tested, which integrate previously obtained direct and indirect models. Such models allow defining values for process variables from required average roughness Ra values. A control parameter d is employed for determining the error of the model, and a sensitivity parameter m measures the convergence speed of the models. Models were tested for m=1, m=10, m=100 and m=1000. Best model was selected having lowest relative error between experimental and simulated values.
Can Islamists Become Moderates?: Rethinking the Inclusion-Moderation Hypothesis

Recent years have seen a surge of studies that examine the inclusion-moderation hypothesis with reference to political islam: the idea that political groups and individuals may become more moderate as a result of their inclusion in pluralist political processes. Most of these interventions adopt one of three foci: (1) the behavioral moderation of groups; (2) the ideological moderation of groups; and (3) the ideological moderation of individuals. after a discussion of various definitions of moderate and radical, the concept of moderation, and the centrality of moderation to studies of democratization, the author examines the scholarship on political islam that falls within each approach. she then examines several studies that raise questions about sequencing: how mechanisms linking inclusion and moderation are posited and how other approaches might better explain islamist moderation. finally, she offers a critical analysis of the behavior-ideology binary that animates many of these models and suggests some fruitful paths for future research.
Employee Families and Organizations as Mutually Enacted Environments

Work—life research tends to privilege the organization—employee relationship, with the family's role largely relegated to providing emotional and material support to the employee and adapting to organizational requirements. Systems oriented research, however, points toward a larger role for the family, including mediating the employee's relationship with the organization as well as direct organizational interactions. This study uses Weick's model of organizational sensemaking to examine, through the analysis of employee and family interview accounts, how a global high-tech organization and its employees' families enact one another as environments. Three dynamics of mutual enactments— two cooperative and one competitive—were identified, along with implications for work—life integration research and practice, for more traditionally programmatic work—life accommodations, and for families' management of their relationships to employing organizations.
Characterization of Two Novel Propachlor Degradation Pathways in Two Species of Soil Bacteria

ABSTRACT Propachlor (2-chloro-N-isopropylacetanilide) is an acetamide herbicide used in preemergence. In this study, we isolated and characterized a soil bacterium, Acinetobacter strain BEM2, that was able to utilize this herbicide as the sole and limiting carbon source. Identification of the intermediates of propachlor degradation by this strain and characterization of new metabolites in the degradation of propachlor by a previously reported strain ofPseudomonas (PEM1) support two different propachlor degradation pathways. Washed-cell suspensions of strain PEM1 with propachlor accumulated N-isopropylacetanilide, acetanilide, acetamide, and catechol. Pseudomonas strain PEM1 grew on propachlor with a generation time of 3.4 h and aKs of 0.17 ± 0.04 mM.Acinetobacter strain BEM2 grew on propachlor with a generation time of 3.1 h and a Ks of 0.3 ± 0.07 mM. Incubations with strain BEM2 resulted in accumulation of N-isopropylacetanilide,N-isopropylaniline, isopropylamine, and catechol. Both degradative pathways were inducible, and the principal product of the carbon atoms in the propachlor ring was carbon dioxide. These results and biodegradation experiments with the identified metabolites indicate that metabolism of propachlor by Pseudomonas sp. strain PEM1 proceeds through a different pathway from metabolism byAcinetobacter sp. strain BEM2.
An Empirical Ethics Agenda for Psychiatric Research Involving Prisoners

In the past 30 years, the incarcerated population in the United States has more than quadrupled to 2.3 million adults. With an alarmingly high prevalence of mental illness, substance use, and other serious health conditions compounding their curtailed autonomy, prisoners constitute perhaps the nation's most disadvantaged group. Scientifically rigorous research involving prisoners holds the potential to inform and enlighten correctional policy and to improve their treatment. At the same time, prisoner research presents significant ethical challenges to investigators and institutional review boards (IRBs) alike, by subjecting participants to conditions that potentially undermine the validity of their informed consent. In 2006, the Institute of Medicine Committee on Ethical Considerations for Revisions to the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Regulations for Protection of Prisoners Involved in Research recommended both further protections and a more permissive approach to research review that would allow inmates greater access to potentially beneficial research. These recommendations have sparked renewed debate about the ethical trade-offs inherent to prisoner research. In this article, the authors review the major justifications for research with prisoner subjects and the associated ethical concerns, and argue that the field of empirical ethics has much to offer to the debate. They then propose a framework for prioritizing future empirical ethics inquiry on this understudied topic.
Measuring the coordination number and entropy of a 3D jammed emulsion packing by confocal microscopy.

Jammed matter is by definition impenetrable to light, such that little is known about the geometry of jammed systems. Using confocal microscopy to image an emulsion in 3D, we first explain the origin of the enhanced fluorescence at the droplet contacts and then determine the contact network inside the model frictionless system. This enables the experimental determination of the average coordination number which agrees with the isostatic predicted value of approximately 6. Furthermore, we calculate the entropy of the packing from the network of contacts.