Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
“The Only Thing We Have to Fear Is Fear Itself”: Predicting College Students’ Voting Behavior Using the Extended Parallel Process Model

This longitudinal study examines how well the EPPM predicts and explains college students’ voting behavior. One-hundred-and-seventy-eight undergraduate students filled out a survey at two points in time: (1) four weeks before and (2) one week after the 2022 midterm election. As hypothesized, the EPPM accurately predicted danger control outcomes (i.e., severity, susceptibility, self-efficacy, and response efficacy predicted voting intentions, and voting intentions predicted voting behavior). The EPPM also predicted one fear control outcome (though only the path between severity and fear was significant). More specifically, the EPPM explained 45.7% of the variance in intention, 81.7% of the variance in behavior, 77% of the variance in contesting, and 33.6% of the variance in suppression.
Modeling Red Blood Cell Metabolism in the Omics Era

Red blood cells (RBCs) are abundant (more than 80% of the total cells in the human body), yet relatively simple, as they lack nuclei and organelles, including mitochondria. Since the earliest days of biochemistry, the accessibility of blood and RBCs made them an ideal matrix for the characterization of metabolism. Because of this, investigations into RBC metabolism are of extreme relevance for research and diagnostic purposes in scientific and clinical endeavors. The relative simplicity of RBCs has made them an eligible model for the development of reconstruction maps of eukaryotic cell metabolism since the early days of systems biology. Computational models hold the potential to deepen knowledge of RBC metabolism, but also and foremost to predict in silico RBC metabolic behaviors in response to environmental stimuli. Here, we review now classic concepts on RBC metabolism, prior work in systems biology of unicellular organisms, and how this work paved the way for the development of reconstruction models of RBC metabolism. Translationally, we discuss how the fields of metabolomics and systems biology have generated evidence to advance our understanding of the RBC storage lesion, a process of decline in storage quality that impacts over a hundred million blood units transfused every year.
A Review of the Roles Materials Play in Determining Functional Properties of Bird Nests

Abstract. Avian nests are crucial to reproduction as they are the site for incubation of the clutch of eggs and, in many cases, it is the location for the rearing of chicks hatched. Despite many years of reports of the characteristics of nests from many species our understanding of their functional properties has been very poor. Over the past few years, interest in the functional properties of nests has increased and this review brings together information regarding how materials used to construct the nest contribute to various functional properties. The review starts with a brief consideration of the various functions of nests but thereafter the focus is on the key roles that it plays during incubation. Details of the variety of materials used in nest construction emphasises the importance of quantitative data on the types and amounts of materials used in nests and how this information allows analysis that can improve our understanding of functional properties. Subsequent sections explore structural and thermal properties of nests in more detail. The roles that a nest can play in maintaining nest humidity and in weather-proofing the contents are also explored. The concept that the nest is an extended phenotype that has a role in niche creation is explored before the review concludes with a consideration of future directions for research.
Estimation of thermal conductivity from the mineral composition: Influence of fabric and anisotropy

Measured values of thermal conductivity from crystalline rocks are compared with values calculated from the mineral content using the layered model. First, thermal conductivity is estimated using data based on quasi-isotropic mixtures of fragments or powder. Second, the approach is applied on core data considering the anisotropy of some rock forming minerals. The numerical value of estimated thermal conductivity is controlled by the quartz content. Sheet-silicates control anisotropy and fabric in gneisses and their thermal consequences. If imformation about the fabric of the rock is available, the anisotropy of minerals can be considered in a layered model and this improves the estimation of thermal conductivity from mineral contents.
SURVEY OF PYGMY RABBIT DISTRIBUTION, NUMBERS AND HABITAT USE IN LEMHI AND CUSTER COUNTIES, IDAHO

From April to September 1997 and July to August 1998, I conducted a survey for the Bureau of Land Management on the Salmon and Challis Field Office Areas, Idaho, to determine the current distribution, habitat associations and relative densities of pygmy rabbits (Brachylagus idahoensis). The survey area was on mostly public lands in three separate block fault valleys -Lemhi River/Birch Creek, Pahsimeroi River/Little Lost River and Warm Springs Creek/Big Lost River, totaling approximately 583,600 acres. The survey consisted of reconnaissance from a vehicle and on foot to determine outer limits of the rabbit's occupied range and measurement of density of burrows on belt transects whenever a substantial amount of sign was found. The pygmy rabbit occupies a continuous band of sagebrush habitat from Kaufman Guard Station (on Birch Creek) northwestwards to Hayden Creek (tributary of the Lemhi River) at elevations from 5,600 to 7,300 feet; a continuous band of sagebrush habitat from Summit Creek (tributary of the Little Lost River) northwestwards to the village of May (on the Pahsimeroi River) at elevations from 5,400 to 7,700 feet; and a continuous band of sagebrush habitat from Mackay (on the Big Lost River) northwestwards to Grand View Canyon (on Warm Springs Creek) at elevations from 5,800 to 7,300 feet, except where interrupted by cultivated lands, recent range fires, sagebrush eradication and areas of unproductive soil. Its most preferred habitat was scattered low earth mounds ("Mima mounds") in Artemisia tridentata ssp. Wyomingensis habitats at elevations between 6,200 and 6,500 feet elevation where sagebrush heights were 24 to 48 inches and crown cover was 40 to 50 percent on the mounds, surrounded by expanses of 12 to 24 inch tall sagebrush and crown cover of 20 to 30 percent between the mounds. Rabbits were also found in adjacent areas but at much lower numbers.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Combined with Histological Techniques for Dynamic Assessment of Cytotoxic Edema after Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury.

BACKGROUND Reperfusion therapy after ischemic cerebral stroke may cause cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI), and cerebral edema is an important factor that may aggravate CIRI. Our study aimed to dynamically monitor the development of early cytotoxic edema after CIRI by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and to validate it using multiple histological imaging methods. METHODS Male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into sham and CIRI groups. T2-weighted imaging (T2WI) and diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI)-MRI scans were performed in the sham and CIRI groups after reperfusion. Relative apparent diffusion coefficient (rADC) values were calculated and the midline shift (MLS) was measured. A series of histological detection techniques were performed to observe changes in the cerebral cortex and striatum of CIRI rats. Correlation analysis of rADC values with aquaporin-4 (AQP4) and sodium-potassium-chloride cotransport protein 1 (Na+-K+-2Cl-- cotransporter 1; NKCC1) was performed. RESULTS rADC values began to increase and reached a relatively low value in the cerebral cortex and striatum at 24 h after reperfusion, and the MLS reached relatively high values at 24 h after reperfusion (all p < 0.05). Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining showed that the nerve cells in the cortex and striatum of the sham group were regular in morphology and neatly arranged, and in the CIRI-24 h group were irregular, disorganized, and loosely structured. Using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining, the number of TUNEL+ cells in the ischemic cortex and striatum in CIRI-24 h group was shown to increase significantly compared with the sham group (p < 0.05). Transmission electron microscopy showed that the perivascular astrocytic foot processes were swollen in the cortex and striatum of the CIRI-24 h group. Pearson correlation analysis demonstrated that rADC values were negatively correlated with the number of anti-glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)+AQP4+ and GFAP+NKCC1+ cells of the CIRI rats. CONCLUSIONS MRI combined with histological techniques can dynamically assess cytotoxic edema after CIRI, in a manner that is clear and intuitive for scientific researchers and clinicians, and provides a scientific basis for the application of MRI techniques for monitoring the dynamic progress of CIRI.
Juniper Effects on Grassland Soil Nutrient Availability

The February 2008 study of a Snowflake, Arizona site measured changes in soil organic carbon, total nitrogen, extractable phosphorus, and soil moisture, to determine what affect One-seed Juniper (Juniperus monosperma) trees have on surrounding soil, thus affecting native grass growth. Increasing juniper densities in grasslands also decrease populations of some grassland bird species. Measurements were taken each meter along a twelve meter line transect, moving from juniper trees, through a bare soil area and into a grassland. Non-linear relationships were examined, in regard to distance from the tree and juniper root mass. Relationships were examined to determine any affect of the juniper tree on soil characteristics along the transect. Organic carbon decreased as distance increased from the trees (F=4.25, df=46, p=0.020). Soil moisture increased with distance from the trees (F=5.42, df=46, p=0.008), and juniper root mass, of roots less than 1 mm diameter, significantly decreased with distance away from the trees (F=11.29, df=46, p=0.0001). Total nitrogen and extractable phosphorus did not significantly change with distance from the tree, or presence of juniper roots. This data is important as grassland restoration projects rely on the availability of soil nutrients and water for reestablishment of native grass species.
Effects of applying a multivariate training program on physical fitness and tactical performance in a team sport taught during physical education classes

Introduction A multivariate training program could be a pedagogical choice to improve physical and tactical performance in a team sport taught during physical education classes at different levels of education. Thus, the aim of this study was to verify the effects of applying a multivariate training program on physical fitness and tactical performance during the teaching of a basketball didactic unit in basic and secondary education. Methods Seventy-five students from a Portuguese school, with an average age of 15.02 ± 1.31 years, included forty-two students from basic school and thirty-three students from secondary school. The FITescola® test battery was used to assess physical fitness (i.e., sit-ups, push-ups, horizontal impulse, shuttle test, 40 m sprint, agility 4 × 10 m). The Game Performance Assessment Instrument (GPAI) was used to assess students' tactical performance for each player's game performance during a 20-minute 3 vs. 3 match. The GPAI variables were decision making index (DMI), skill execution index (SEI), support actions index (SI), and adaptability index (AI). During a basketball didactic unit teaching, the students were randomly divided into two groups, a control group that will not carry out the training program and an experimental group that will carry out a strength training program, high intensity explosive exercises and activities based on small-sided games (SSG) for 6 weeks. The two groups were evaluated in two moments: before the application of the training program and after the application of the training program regarding changes in physical fitness and tactical performance. The independent samples t-test (samples from two groups) and paired sample Test (for the same group) were applied for pre and post-assessment comparisons. Results All indexes present significant differences between basic and secondary students in the pre- and post-assessment tests with small effects (t = −6.54 to −4.82, Δ = −27.57 to −0.16, p<0.05–p< 0.001, d = 0.78–1.05). Discussion The results allow to conclude that in a school environment, a well-structured multivariate training program can effectively improve students' tactical skills, increasing their physical conditioning levels.
Shore A Hardness and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrophotometer Analysis of Thymol-Modified Maxillofacial Silicone Material

The longevity of any prosthesis depends on the materials from which it was fabricated, which is why defects in the material properties may reduce the service life of the prosthesis and necessitate its replacement. This study aims to test the in ﬂ uence of incorporating different weight percentages of thymol micro-powder into the maxillofacial silicone matrix on Shore A hardness of the silicone. Room-temperature vulcanised VST-50 maxillofacial silicone was used to prepare the study specimens. Thymol micro-powder was incorporated into the silicone matrix in two percentages (0.75 wt.% and 1 wt.%). 30 specimens were prepared and then subdivided equally into three groups, with 10 specimens allocated for each group. These study groups are customised according to thymol content percentage: group A: Control (without additive); experimental groups B and C: 0.75 and 1 wt. % thymol additive, respectively. ANOVA and post hoc honesty signi ﬁ cant difference tests were utilised for group comparisons (signi ﬁ cance level set at P < 0.05). An additional three specimens, one for each study group, were prepared for the fourier transform spectrophotometry analysis. For the Shore A hardness test, there was a non-signi ﬁ cant decrease in the reported mean values for both experimental groups (B and C) compared to those of the control group (A) ( P > 0.05), while there was no chemical reaction between thymol powder particles and the silicone matrix. In conclusion, the application of thymol micro-powder did not yield a statistically signi ﬁ cant reduction in the hardness of the silicone facial prosthesis. This outcome may suggest that the use of thymol micro-powder does not contribute to a more realistic or lifelike appearance of the prosthesis.
Incidental Carcinoid Tumor of the Appendix After Appendectomy During Pregnancy

Neuroendocrine tumors comprise a range of neoplasms with varying spectra of origin, biological activity, clinical features, and histological appearance. In this case report, we present a pregnant 33-year-old female who was brought to the emergency department (ED) complaining of acute right iliac fossa pain accompanied by diarrhea and vomiting. Initial management showed no improvement. Lab results, clinical history, and physical exam were suggestive of appendicitis, so an exploratory minimally invasive laparoscopic exam was performed. The histopathological analysis of the excised appendix confirmed the diagnosis of acute appendicitis and periappendicitis. Incidentally, a 0.6 cm neuroendocrine tumor (carcinoid tumor) was identified on the wall of the appendiceal tip. The tumor extended at multiple points into the subserosal fat, and the serous surface and the resection margin were negative for the tumor. After seven days of the initial procedure, the patient presented with abdominal pain and a fever. An abdominal ultrasound was performed, revealing the presence of free fluid. A second exploratory laparoscopy revealed adhesions between the fallopian tubes and cecum, as well as a collection of purulent fluid. The management consisted of adhesiolysis, cavity lavage, and drainage, along with antibiotic therapy, pain management, and close monitoring of the mother's and fetus's status. The patient had a successful recovery and was discharged home a week after surgery. She gave birth to a full-term, healthy baby and remains free of tumor relapse. This case highlights the importance of obtaining histopathological interpretation of any extracted tissue during surgery. Guidelines regarding the management of carcinoids during pregnancy are not available, and when considering surgical intervention, an open or laparoscopic approach must be carefully evaluated.
DC-targeting lentivectors for cancer immunotherapy

Summary Lentivectors (LVs) induce sustained transgene expression and are attractive vaccine platforms for complex immune scenarios like cancer and persistent infections. This review summarises the literature on lentivectors with potential uses for in vivo immunotherapy, focussing on those targeting the most potent antigen-presenting cells: dendritic cells (DCs). There is a growing interest in myeloid-targeting therapies as, by influencing an early stage in the immune hierarchy, they can orchestrate a more diverse and complex targeted immune response. We dissect the nature of DC-targeting LVs and their induced immune responses to understand the state of the art, identify the knowledge gaps and guide efforts to maximise the generation of potent and effective immune responses. Lentivector-based vaccines provide several advantages over other vaccine platforms, such as directed tropism and limited vector immunogenicity, and have been shown to generate effective and sustained immune responses. Overall, DC-targeting lentivectors stand out as promising tools to be exploited in cancer immunotherapy, and new-generation LVs can further exploit the gained knowledge in the study of naturally occurring lentiviruses for a more directed and adjuvanted response.
Clinical, Pathological, and Prognostic Features of Male Breast Cancer: A Multicenter Study

Male breast cancer (BC) represents less than 1% of male tumors. Little is known about male BC characteristics, management, and survival, with many studies based on a small number of cases. Consequently, the treatment of male BC lacks specific guidelines. The aims of the study are to compare male and female breast cancer (FBC) in terms of cancer clinical and anatomopathological features and treatment approach, and to identify differences between male BC and FBC in terms of survival. Patients and methods: Data from 2006 to 2018 were retrospectively acquired. Amounts of 49 males and 680 postmenopausal females with primary non-metastatic BC who underwent breast surgery at Mauriziano Hospital or IRCCS Candiolo (TO—Italy) were included. The mean age at diagnosis for male BC was 68.6 years, and males presented a smaller tumor size than women (p < 0.05) at diagnosis. Most male BC patients received adjuvant endocrine therapy (AET) with tamoxifen (73.5%). AET drop-out rate due to side effects was 16.3% for males compared to 7.6% for women (p = 0.04). Comparing FBC and male BC, no differences have been identified in terms of DFS and OS, with a similar 10-year-relapse rate (12% male BC vs. 12.4% FBC). Propensity Score Matching by age, nodal status, pT, and molecular subtype had been performed and no differences in OS and DFS were seen between male BC and FBC. In conclusion, male BC and FBC have similar prognostic factors and survival outcomes. The drop-out rate of AET was higher in males, and side effects were the main reason for drug discontinuation.
Rural resident income spatial-temporal variations for Guizhou Province using GIS technology

Based on the spatial autocorrelation (SA) and Geographic Information System (GIS) technology, the spatial differences of the rural economic development level was investigated by adopting the rural resident income data in Guizhou Province from 2009 to 2013. The results of global Moran’s I value for rural resident income at county level showed that there existed significant positive spatial autocorrelation and significant spatial aggregation in the spatial distribution of rural resident income. However, the global Moran’s I value showed the increasing trend during 2009 to 2013, indicating an enlarged spatial disparity of rural economy in Guizhou. The results of the local indicators of spatial association(LISA) cluster maps of 2009 and 2013 showed that most of counties were characterized by positive local spatial association , ie. They were located in the HH or the LL region. The significant HH counties were mostly to be found in the middle part of Guizhou. The significant LL counties were found in the Wuchuan county and Zhenfeng county, northwest and southwest of Guizhou.
Realistic Depth Image Synthesis for 3D Hand Pose Estimation

The training of depth image-based hand pose estimation model typically relies on real-life datasets which are expected to be 1) largescale and cover a diverse range of hand poses and hand shapes, and 2) always come with high-precision annotations. However, existing datasets in reality are rather limited in the above regards due to multitude practical constraints, with time and cost being the major concerns. This observation motivates us to propose an alternative approach, where hand pose model is primarily trained with synthesized hand depth images that closely mimicking the characteristic noise patterns of a specific depth camera make under consideration. It is achieved by firstly mapping a Gaussian distributed variable to certain specific non-i.i. d. (independent and identically distributed) depth noise pattern, and then transforming a “vanilla” noise-free synthetic depth image to a realistic-looking image. Extensive empirical experiments demonstrate that our approach is capable of generating camera-specific realistic-looking hand depth images with precise annotations; comparing to entirely relying on annotated real images, a hand pose model with better performance is obtained by using only a small fraction (10%) of annotated real images as well as our synthesized images.
Developing Adaptive, Personalised, Autonomous Social Robots Using Physiological Signals: System Development and a Pilot Study

Maintaining physical, emotional and psychological health is vital for well-being. Social robots have been increasingly used in healthcare to support physical and mental health. Providing appropriate, adaptive and personalised feedback based on the user’s internal states is crucial for effective and engaging human-robot interaction, especially in one-to-one interaction scenarios. In this research, we developed an adaptive and autonomous system, integrating a social robot, a wearable non-intrusive Polar chest sensor and algorithms to guide people in three application scenarios to promote physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. The social robot senses users’ psychophysiological measures such as heart rate and heart-rate variability via the wearable sensor, monitors their stress responses, provides real-time feedback and guides them to perform activities. We detail the system development and a pilot study with fifteen participants to evaluate the system in the three scenarios. The findings suggest that the autonomous system could effectively guide participants through the activities by regulating their stress responses. Participants’ physiological data also support these results. Moreover, the system was well-accepted by its users.