Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Targeting the Intrinsically Disordered Structural Ensemble of α-Synuclein by Small Molecules as a Potential Therapeutic Strategy for Parkinson’s Disease

The misfolding of intrinsically disordered proteins such as α-synuclein, tau and the Aβ peptide has been associated with many highly debilitating neurodegenerative syndromes including Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. Therapeutic targeting of the monomeric state of such intrinsically disordered proteins by small molecules has, however, been a major challenge because of their heterogeneous conformational properties. We show here that a combination of computational and experimental techniques has led to the identification of a drug-like phenyl-sulfonamide compound (ELN484228), that targets α-synuclein, a key protein in Parkinson’s disease. We found that this compound has substantial biological activity in cellular models of α-synuclein-mediated dysfunction, including rescue of α-synuclein-induced disruption of vesicle trafficking and dopaminergic neuronal loss and neurite retraction most likely by reducing the amount of α-synuclein targeted to sites of vesicle mobilization such as the synapse in neurons or the site of bead engulfment in microglial cells. These results indicate that targeting α-synuclein by small molecules represents a promising approach to the development of therapeutic treatments of Parkinson’s disease and related conditions.
An investigation of the relationship between achievement goal orientations and the use of stress coping strategies with canonical correlation

The aim of this research was to examine the relationship between achievement goal orientations and the use of stress-coping strategies among college students. The sample consisted of 532 university students who were enrolled in different programs at Sakarya University, in Turkey. Of the participants, 279 were female and 253 were male. To assess strategies typically used in coping with stressful situations, the Coping Scale (Ozbay & Olivarez, 1999) and to measure achievement goal orientations of the sample the Achievement Goal Orientations Scale (Midgley et al.,1998) were administrated. Canonical correlation and MANOVA were conducted to statistically analyze the data. Consistent with hypotheses, results demonstrated that there were high relationships between students’ achievement goal orientations and their use of coping strategies.
Bridging Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow: CEO Temporal Focus, Environmental Dynamism, and Rate of New Product Introduction

Using a multidimensional framework of CEO temporal focus (the degree to which CEOs characteristically devote attention to perceptions of the past, present, and future), we propose that a company's rate of new product introduction (NPI) is predicted by a CEO's focus on each of the three distinct time frames in interaction with environmental dynamism. Based on a longitudinal (from 1996 to 2003) analysis of 221 firms in 19 industries, we show that, in stable environments, new products are introduced faster in firms headed by CEOs with high past focus, high present focus, and low future focus. In dynamic environments, new products are introduced faster in firms headed by CEOs with low past focus, high present focus, and high future focus. These findings demonstrate how CEO temporal attentional bias shapes the rate of NPI.
Effect of electrical stimulation of the crossed olivocochlear bundle on temporary threshold shifts in auditory sensitivity. II. Dependence on the level of temporary threshold shifts.

1. This report presents a more detailed examination of crossed olivocochlear bundle (COCB) effects on temporary threshold shifts (TTS). The principal aim was to establish the details of the relationship between the effects of continuous COCB stimulation and the TTS caused by various exposures. Initially, in various groups, different intensities of a 1-min exposure were presented with or without COCB stimulation. Stimulation at any particular rate caused greatest reductions in TTS to occur for the higher intensity exposures than for the lower intensity ones. Thus COCB stimulation at 140 pulses/s reduced maximum threshold losses by the following amounts: 13.33 [106 dB sound pressure level (SPL) exposure], 13.29 (103 dB SPL exposure), 8.9 (101 dB SPL exposure), and 0.77 dB (97 dB SPL exposure). 2. The effect of COCB stimulation was also examined on a shorter duration (30 s) exposure causing TTS intermediate between that due to 1-min exposure at 97 dB SPL and that at 101 dB SPL. Reductions in TTS to the shorter duration exposure were not obtained with COCB stimulation at 140 pulses/s but only when the rate was increased to 260/s. 3. Thus COCB stimulation at any particular rate caused greatest reductions in TTS when the exposure would have caused a large amount of TTS, regardless of the intensity or duration of exposure. These two parameters of the exposure could be traded to provide a level of TTS that would be affected by a standard COCB stimulus. Low-level exposures that caused only small amounts of TTS were not affected by the standard COCB stimulus. As the level of the exposure, and therefore, the ensuing TTS, increased (with increased duration or intensity of exposure), the standard stimulus had greater effects. Increasing the rate of pulses in the COCB stimulus resulted in the low-level exposures now being affected. Even at the higher rate, greatest reductions in TTS were obtained when the exposure would have resulted in high levels of TTS. 4. In an attempt to determine the site of action of the continuous COCB stimulus the endocochlear potential (EP) and the summating potential (SP) were recorded from scala media of the basal turn while applying COCB stimuli similar to those used in the TTS experiments. Although the continuous COCB stimulus caused the traditional changes in the EP and SP associated with COCB stimulation with pulsed short electrical trains, these changes adapted quite rapidly and did not persist for the amount of time shown to be necessary for full reductions in TTS to be obtained. (ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Rhythms and Ties: Towards a Pragmatics of Technologically-mediated Sociability

Mediated interpersonal communications (from paper letters to various forms of electronic communication) provides new topics for social networks research. Personal networks not only shape, but are shaped by technological means for communication. In this paper we analyze mediated sociability as resulting from the dynamical interplay between the structure of social networks, the various types of exchanges supported by social bonds (made up of a succession of embodied gestures and language acts) and the range of available technological resources to sustain such exchanges. Each of these components of mediated sociability acts both as a constraint on and a resource for the practices involved in the management of sociability. Based on several empirical studies, we discuss in more detail the rhythms or time patterns of mediated exchange, contrasting an intermittent and a continuous regime for mediated sociability. In the former regime, ICTs are used to bridge over distance. The corresponding relational economy is structured by an inverse relationship between geographical distance and frequency of mediated exchanges, and a direct one between geographical distance and the size of mediated exchanges. In the latter regime, privileged correspondents continuously meet and exchange phone calls, emails and SMS. In this seamless web of mediated communication that make up the very fabric of connected presence, communication as a gestures or a token of attention may be more meaningful than what is said or written.
Virucidal Influence of Ionic Liquids on Phages P100 and MS2

An increasing number of publications describe the potential of ionic liquids (ILs) as novel antimicrobials, antibacterial coatings and even as active pharmaceutical ingredients. Nevertheless, a major research area, notably their impact on viruses, has so far been neglected. Consequently the aim of this study was to examine the effects of ILs on the infectivity of viruses. A systematic analysis to investigate the effects of defined structural elements of ILs on virus activity was performed using 55 ILs. All structure activity relationships (SARs) were tested on the human norovirus surrogate phage MS2 and phage P100 representing non-enveloped DNA viruses. Results demonstrate that IL SAR conclusions, established for prokaryotes and eukaryotes, are not readily applicable to the examined phages. A virus-type-dependent IL influence was also apparent. Overall, four ILs, covering different structural elements, were found to reduce phage P100 infectivity by ≥4 log10 units, indicating a virucidal effect, whereas the highest reduction for phage MS2 was about 3 log10 units. Results indicate that future applications of ILs as virucidal agents will require development of novel SARs and the obtained results serve as a good starting point for future studies.
The External Brain: Eco-Cultural Roots of Distancing and Mediation

First, this article attempts to approach the problem of distancing from the psychocultural perspective, relating it with the basic mechanism of mediation that was proposed by Vygotsky. Secondly, it is a reflection on the combined process of approaching and distancing in human biological and mental processes, and the limitations of contemplating the development as a process that is assumed to proceed only in the direction of ever greater cognitive distancing. Finally, it is proposed that instead of conceiving contact and distance as divergent developmental paths, models should articulate both processes of approaching and distancing, as well as of social mediation and instrumental mediation. I suggest the ecological and situated nature of psychological operators of distancing as a process in an extra-cortical mise-en-scEne.
Achieving Coordination in Collaborative Problem-Solving Groups

In this article, interactive processes among group partners and the relationship of these processes to problem-solving outcomes are investigated in 2 contrasting groups. The case study groups were selected for robust differences in the quality of their written solutions to a problem and parallel differences in the quality of the group members' interaction. In 1 group correct proposals were generated, confirmed, documented, and reflected upon. In the other, they were generated, rejected without rationale, and for the most part left undocumented. The analyses identified 3 major contrastive dimensions in group interaction-the mutuality of exchanges, the achievement of joint attentional engagement, and the alignment of group members' goals for the problem solving process. A focus on group-level characteristics offers a distinctive strategy for examining small group learning and paves the way to understanding reasons for variability of outcomes in collaborative ventures. These dimensions may usefully inform the design and assessment of collaborative learning environments.
Family Policies and Children's School Achievement in Single‐ Versus Two‐Parent Families

We investigate the gap in math and science achievement of third- and fourth-graders who live with a single parent versus those who live with two parents in 11 countries. The United States and New Zealand rank last among the countries we compare in terms of the equality of achievement between children from single-parent families and those from two-parent homes. Following a multilevel analysis, we find single parenthood to be less detrimental when family policies equalize resources between single- and two-parent families. In addition, the single- and two-parent achievement gap is greater in countries where single-parent families are more prevalent. We conclude that national family policies can offset the negative academic outcomes of single parenthood.
Effects of group norms on children's intentions to bully

A minimal group study examined the effect of peer group norms on children's direct and indirect bullying intentions. Prior to an inter-group drawing competition, children (N = 85) aged seven and nine years were assigned to a group that had a norm of out-group dislike or out-group liking. Results indicated that, regardless of group norms, the children's attitudes were more positive towards the in-group vs. the out-group. Children's bullying intentions were greater when the in-group had a norm of out-group dislike vs. out-group liking, the children were younger rather than older, and the bullying was indirect vs. direct. A three-way interaction showed that the in-group norms had a larger effect on the younger children's direct rather than indirect bullying intentions, but a larger effect on the older children's indirect rather than direct bullying intentions. Implications for understanding school bullying intentions and behaviour are discussed.
Alternative cell line for the isolation of salmonid alphavirus-1

Salmonid alphavirus (SAV) has recently become an economically important pathogen in salmonid aquaculture in Europe. Subtype SAV-1 causes salmon pancreas disease (SPD) in Atlantic salmon in Scotland and Ireland, and was first isolated on Chinook salmon embryo-214 (CHSE-214) cells in 1995 in Ireland; several established cell lines have since been tested for viral growth, although the ability of these cell lines to support primary virus isolation has not being examined. In the present study, CHSE-214, Chum salmon heart -1 (CHH-1) and Salmon head kidney -1 (SHK-1) cell lines were evaluated for isolation of SAV-1 from kidney samples of experimentally infected Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar). The presence of infection in these samples was confirmed both by cell culture and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Homogenates of kidney from fish 3 days post-infection (p.i.) were inoculated onto the three cell lines and the development of a cytopathic effect (CPE) recorded. The CHH-1 cells produced a rapid CPE from Day 6 p.i. , while the CHSE-214 cells showed the presence of a CPE from Day 10 p.i. In comparison, a CPE developed much later in the SHK-1 cells, from Day 20 p.i. The virus was successfully isolated on all three cell lines in subsequent passages, indicating that CHSE-214, CHH-1, and SHK-1 cells can be used for the isolation and culture of SAV-1. The CHH-1 cell line, however, has proven the most useful, since the CPE developed the quickest in this cell line.
Pathways Into Services for Offenders with Intellectual Disabilities

The patterns and pathways into intellectual disability (ID) offender services were studied through case file review for 477 participants referred in one calendar year to community generic, community forensic, and low, medium, and maximum secure services. Data were gathered on referral source, demographic information, index behavior, prior problem behaviors, diagnostic information, and abuse or deprivation. Community referrers tended to refer to community services and secure service referrers to secure services. Physical and verbal violence were the most frequent index behaviors, whereas contact sexual offenses were more prominent in maximum security. Age at first incident varied with security, with the youngest in maximum secure services. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder or conduct disorder was the most frequently recorded diagnosis, and severe deprivation was the most frequent adverse developmental experience. Fire starting, theft, and road traffic offenses did not feature prominently. Generic community services accepted a number of referrals with forensic-type behavior and had higher proportions of both women and people with moderate or severe ID.
Phenolic Profiles and Antioxidant Properties of Young Wines Made from Yan73 (Vitis vinifera L.) and Cabernet Sauvignon (Vitis vinifera L.) Grapes Treated by 24-Epibrassinolide

The grape berries of two varieties, Yan73 (Vitis vinifera L.) and Cabernet Sauvignon (CS) (Vitis vinifera L.) were treated with 0.40 mg/L 24-epibrassinolide (EBR), 1.00 mg/L brassinazole (Brz), and deionized water (control), at the veraison period. The EBR treatment significantly increased total phenolic content (TPC), total tannin content (TTC) and total anthocyanin content (TAC) of Yan73 and CS wines, whereas Brz treatment decreased TPC, total flavonoid content (TFC), TAC in the two wines. Moreover, the content of most of the phenolic compounds identified by HPLC-DAD/ESI-MS in EBR-treated wines was significantly higher than that in control. The antioxidant capacities, which determined using DPPH, ABTS and HRSA methods, of the wines were increased by EBR treatment as well. There was a good correlation between the antioxidant capacity and phenolic content. The results demonstrated that EBR could enhance the phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity of Yan73 and CS wines, but the effects may vary by different cultivars.
A Noisy Road or Noisy Resident?: A Demonstration of the Utility of Social Constructionism for Analysing Environmental Problems

Within the developing field of environmental sociology the use of social constructionist approaches has often been criticised for detracting attention from the severity of environmental problems and for failing to contribute to attempts to manage them. While there are is a number of published social constructionist analyses of how various environmental problems have come to prominence, few of these address the criticisms which have been levelled at the approach. This paper attempts to contribute to this gap in the literature by providing a reflective case study of the use of social constructionism to analyse a specific environmental problem – the noise generated by a new road. The case study discussed is of the A27 road between Havant and Chichester. The results illustrate that treating environmental problems as socially constructed is often the most valid approach given that the existence and character of these problems, as well as how best to address them, are often contested. In addition it is suggested that the results of social constructionist analyses can make a practical contribution to the management of environmental disputes.
How Can Physician's Knowledge Be Activated to Provide Better Healthcare? Explaining Electronic Health Record Adaptation by Physicians

Despite the rising costs of healthcare and falling quality of care, the integration of EHR (Electronic Health Records) in supporting collaboration to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare remains a challenge. It appears that the physicians are at the center of this bottleneck. The literature suggests that the reasons for the limited use relate to policy, financial and usability considerations, but it does not provide an understanding of reasons for physicians' limited interaction and adaptation of EHR. Following an analysis of qualitative data, collected in a case study at a hospital using interviews, this research shows how a collaborative technology architecture can enable the physicians to better interact with their partners using the E.H. R technology for the purpose of improving healthcare provision.
The AIDS Crisis: Review of Psychological Issues and Implications, with Special Reference to the South African Situation

AIDS represents a major challenge to the health care industry. The behavioural sciences, especially psychology, have important contributions to make to various aspects of AIDS and its prevention. This article reviews the stages in the development of AIDS, examining the psychological issues and implications at each stage. Special attention is given to the unique South African situation with respect to AIDS. The article concludes by examining the present and prospective position of psychology in SA with respect to AIDS.
Scaffolding English Language Learners and Struggling Readers in a Universal Literacy Environment with Embedded Strategy Instruction and Vocabulary Support

As interest and concern rise in U.S. educational circles around the reading achievement of English language learners (ELLs) and struggling readers, researchers and practitioners alike are calling for the increased use of technology as a means to decrease achievement gaps in reading (Jiménez, 2003; Strangman & Dalton, 2005). In this article, we report results from a 4-week study of the English reading comprehension of struggling readers, including Spanish-speaking ELLs. Thirty 4th-grade students read several narrative and informational hypertexts that provided embedded vocabulary and comprehension strategy supports, along with text-to-speech read-aloud functionality. Correlation analyses of pre-post standardized reading vocabulary gain scores revealed that vocabulary gain was associated, although not significantly, with the frequency of access of hyperlinked glossary items throughout the intervention, and that lower pretest vocabulary knowledge was associated with positive vocabulary gains. A similar pattern was detected for comprehension gains, which were significantly associated with the frequency of access of coaching avatars that provided support around the productive use of reading comprehension strategies. The results reported here suggest that struggling readers and Spanish-speaking ELLs made use of the digitally embedded features in such a way as to promote both learning novel lexical items and effectively applying reading comprehension strategies.
Spontaneous Self-Managing Practices in Groups

This study, based on qualitative research, accounts for a process of collective and spontaneous self-managing practices in a group formally structured as a manager-led team. It explains the group members’ reactions to different types of work arrangements and their coordination in terms of their need to affirm their professional identity. The characteristics of the organizational context, of the labor market, and of the technology involved favor the emergence of self-management, too. The authors employed observation, ethnographic interviews, and analysis of documents in conducting this research.
Graduates' Perceptions of Strengths and Needs in Interdisciplinary Teacher Preparation for Early Childhood Education: A State Study

While the national growth of interdisciplinary early childhood education (ECE) and early childhood special education (ECSE) teacher preparation has been documented, research into these programs is scarce. This study was conducted to gather graduates' perceptions of their preparation in a statewide system of ECE/ECSE interdisciplinary teacher preparation programs. A southeastern state implemented the new approach to preparing teachers to work with infants, toddlers, and young children with and without disabilities, and their families, in 1992. As one of the first stand-alone blended teacher preparation licenses, the Birth through Kindergarten license in this state is a competency-based approach to licensure combining the NAEYC and DEC preparation standards. A mail survey of graduates from seven state- and NCATE-approved blended programs was conducted during the first year of employment. Participants were asked to rate their preparation in state licensure competencies. Perceived strengths were higher in areas of general early childhood and child development than in areas specific to early childhood special education. Graduates reported a need in the preparation programs for more content and application in areas including working with families, behavior analysis, and working with children who have moderate to severe disabilities.