Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Laminin Alterations After In Vitro Nonenzymatic Glycosylation

Laminin, a basement membrane protein derived from the matrix of the Engelbreth-Holm-Swarm murine tumor, was nonenzymatically glycosylated in vitro in the presence of increasing glucose concentrations. The amount of glucose incorporated per laminin molecule was shown to be proportional to the molarity of glucose used. Nonenzymatic glycosylation resulted in formation of cross-links and alterations of the cruciform shape of laminin molecules; these alterations were dramatic when high concentrations of glucose were used. One of the functions of laminin, the process of self-assembly, was shown to be impaired after in vitro nonenzymatic glycosylation. Glucose incorporation resulted in a dramatic decrease of long-to-long laminin dimers, which normally form during the initial steps of assembly. Furthermore, nonenzymatic glycosylation of laminin reduced its ability to self-associate into complexes larger than dimers, as judged by turbidimetry. The observed decrease of maximal turbidity was proportional to the degree of nonenzymatic glycosylation. Aminoguanidine, which has been suggested to inhibit cross-link formation, was shown to restore to a large extent the shape of laminin, the percentage of long-to-long arm dimers, and the maximal turbidity when included in the mixtures of laminin and glucose. These data suggest that structural and functional alterations of laminin may be primarily due to formation of crosslinks. Such modifications of laminin (along with our basement membrane components) may contribute to the morphological and physiological changes observed in basement membranes under diabetic conditions.
The effects of perceived justice in service recovery on firm reputation and repurchase intention in airline industry

The purpose of this study is to assess the influence of perceived justice on repurchase intention and to examine the moderating role of firm reputation in the relationship between perceived justice and repurchase intention. Data were gathered by means of survey from airline passengers who experienced a service failure and subsequently a service recovery within past one year. The results show the effect of distributive justice on repurchase intention was stronger than procedural and interactional justice. Additionally, hierarchical regression analyses suggested that firm reputation plays a moderating role between perceived justice and repurchase intention in the distributive and interactional justice dimensions. Although, prior research has developed an understanding of the role of firm reputation on behavioral intentions, however, this study additionally examined the role of firm reputation as the moderator in this relationship. Managerial implications of these findings are briefly discussed.
AN ANALYTIC APPROACH IN IDENTIFYING A LATENT STRUCTURE TO DETERMINE SCORING CRITERIA FOR A CLINICAL DIAGNOSIS OF TRAUMATIC GRIEF

Although reliably recognized as a psychiatric syndrome, traumatic grief has not been identified as a primary axis I diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders -fourth edition (DSM-IV). Due to the newness of recognition of this diagnosis, a universally accepted set of diagnostic criteria does not exist. The objective of this thesis was to evaluate the psychometric properties of a newly developed twenty-nine item structured clinical interview for the diagnosis of traumatic grief (SCI-TG) by: assessing its internal consistency; evaluating its inter-rater reliability; describing its factor structure; and determining its construct validity. The SCI-TG was administered to 166 patients enrolled in an ongoing traumatic grief therapy randomized clinical trial (TGTRCT) MH060783. The SCI-TG showed good internal consistency as assessed by the Cronbach's coefficient alpha (0.74), and good inter-rater reliability (0.81). Exploratory principal components factor analysis yielded the selection of three factors corresponding to symptoms of: "guilt", "failure to adapt", and "separation distress", respectively. Demonstrating convergent validity, the total score of the SCI-TG was significantly correlated with the Inventory of Complicated Grief (ICG), the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS), the Structured Interview Guidelines for the Hamilton Rating Scale for Anxiety (SIGH-A), the Impact of Events Scale (IES), and the Adult Separation Anxiety Disorder (ASAD). The estimated factor scores on factor 1, "guilt", were not significantly correlated with any of these instruments, and the estimated factor scores on the "separation distress" factor was not significantly correlated with the ASAD, signifying the uniqueness of traumatic grief symptoms. The results of the factor analyses could be used to create subscales of the new 17-item SCI-TG. The distribution of the SCI-TG scores based on the reduced scale resulting from the factor analyses was proposed to be used in determining the scoring of this instrument. Studies of the treatment of bereavement with antidepressants have proven ineffective in treating grief symptoms. The public health relevance of this thesis is in defining these symptoms and developing an instrument to adequately identify such symptoms.
Stressed-Induced TMEM135 Protein Is Part of a Conserved Genetic Network Involved in Fat Storage and Longevity Regulation in Caenorhabditis elegans

Disorders of mitochondrial fat metabolism lead to sudden death in infants and children. Although survival is possible, the underlying molecular mechanisms which enable this outcome have not yet been clearly identified. Here we describe a conserved genetic network linking disorders of mitochondrial fat metabolism in mice to mechanisms of fat storage and survival in Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans). We have previously documented a mouse model of mitochondrial very-long chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase (VLCAD) deficiency. [1] We originally reported that the mice survived birth, but, upon exposure to cold and fasting stresses, these mice developed cardiac dysfunction, which greatly reduced survival. We used cDNA microarrays[2], [3], [4] to outline the induction of several markers of lipid metabolism in the heart at birth in surviving mice. We hypothesized that the induction of fat metabolism genes in the heart at birth is part of a regulatory feedback circuit that plays a critical role in survival. [1] The present study uses a dual approach employing both C57BL/6 mice and the nematode, C. elegans, to focus on TMEM135, a conserved protein which we have found to be upregulated 4.3 (±0.14)-fold in VLCAD-deficient mice at birth. Our studies have demonstrated that TMEM135 is highly expressed in mitochondria and in fat-loaded tissues in the mouse. Further, when fasting and cold stresses were introduced to mice, we observed 3.25 (±0.03)- and 8.2 (±0.31)- fold increases in TMEM135 expression in the heart, respectively. Additionally, we found that deletion of the tmem135 orthologue in C. elegans caused a 41.8% (±2.8%) reduction in fat stores, a reduction in mitochondrial action potential and decreased longevity of the worm. In stark contrast, C. elegans transgenic animals overexpressing TMEM-135 exhibited increased longevity upon exposure to cold stress. Based on these results, we propose that TMEM135 integrates biological processes involving fat metabolism and energy expenditure in both the worm (invertebrates) and in mammalian organisms. The data obtained from our experiments suggest that TMEM135 is part of a regulatory circuit that plays a critical role in the survival of VLCAD-deficient mice and perhaps in other mitochondrial genetic defects of fat metabolism as well.
A proactive recommendation system for writing: helping without disrupting

Motivation -- Finding appropriate information while writing a scientific paper is essential, but also difficult and time consuming. A Proactive Recommender System (PRS) retrieves information relevant to the text being written, and presents it automatically. However, current PRSs overlook that writing is a demanding task, affected by interruptions. We look for those moments during writing where finding information is important and where proactive presentation interrupts least. Our goal is to develop a PRS for professional writers that presents information non-intrusively and timely so as to minimize disturbing the writing process. Research approach -- Finding information is most needed during Reviewing and Planning. In two experiments we explore the effects of a PRS during these phases. Findings -- PRSs speed up writing and improve the quality of the text compared to situations where writers have to look for information actively. Originality/Value -- Our research will change the design of PRSs and enhance our understanding of complex cognitive tasks such as writing and how electronic information processing tools affect them. Take away message -- We can turn interruptions in complex cognitive tasks into an advantage in terms of time and the quality, provided that the interruption comes at the right time and the information offered is relevant and accurate. Future research should focus on precisely this: when are interrupts least disturbing and how to make PRSs more accurate and relevant.
Linking work conditions to unpleasant affect: Cognition, categorization and goals

Current approaches to work stress do not address in detail the mental processes by which work events cause unpleasant affect. We propose a cognitive account that incorporates: (1) the distinction between controlled and automatic information processing; (2) the categorization of emotionally relevant stimuli; (3) the role of mental models in coping choice; (4) the enactment of beneficial job conditions through coping; and (5) reciprocal influences between cognition and affect. We conclude by discussing how this account can help explain a range of findings in the work stress literature and how a cognitive approach to work stress informs practice.
Single nucleotide polymorphisms in the interferon gamma gene are associated with distinct types of retinochoroidal scar lesions presumably caused by Toxoplasma gondii infection

The association of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the interferon (IFN)-γ gene ( IFNG ) with different types of retinal scar lesions presumably caused by toxoplasmosis were investigated in a cross-sectional population-based genetic study. Ten SNPs were investigated and after Bonferroni correction, only the associations between SNPs rs2069718 and rs3181035 with retinal/retinochoroidal scar lesions type A (most severe scar lesions) and C (least severe scar lesions), respectively, remained significant. The associations of two different IFNG SNPs with two different types of retinal lesions attributable to toxoplasmosis support the hypothesis that different inflammatory mechanisms underlie the development of these lesions. The in vitro analysis of IFN-γ secretion by peripheral blood mononuclear cells stimulated with Toxoplasma gondii antigens was also investigated. The association between SNP rs2069718 and type A scar lesions revealed that differential IFN-γ levels are correlated with distinct genotypes. However, no correlation was observed with IFN-γ secretion levels and the SNP rs3181035 , which was significantly associated with type C scar lesions. Our findings strongly suggest that immunogenetic studies of individuals with congenital or postnatally acquired infection are needed to better understand the role of IFN-γ and its polymorphisms in the pathogenesis of ocular toxoplasmosis.
Measuring what people value: a comparison of "attitude" and "preference" surveys.

OBJECTIVE To compare and contrast methods and findings from two approaches to valuation used in the same survey: measurement of "attitudes" using simple rankings and ratings versus measurement of "preferences" using conjoint analysis. Conjoint analysis, a stated preference method, involves comparing scenarios composed of attribute descriptions by ranking, rating, or choosing scenarios. We explore possible explanations for our findings using focus groups conducted after the quantitative survey. METHODS A self-administered survey, measuring attitudes and preferences for HIV tests, was conducted at HIV testing sites in San Francisco in 1999-2000 (n = 365, response rate = 96 percent). Attitudes were measured and analyzed using standard approaches. Conjoint analysis scenarios were developed using a fractional factorial design and results analyzed using random effects probit models. We examined how the results using the two approaches were both similar and different. RESULTS We found that "attitudes" and "preferences" were generally consistent, but there were some important differences. Although rankings based on the attitude and conjoint analysis surveys were similar, closer examination revealed important differences in how respondents valued price and attributes with "halo" effects, variation in how attribute levels were valued, and apparent differences in decision-making processes. CONCLUSIONS To our knowledge, this is the first study to compare attitude surveys and conjoint analysis surveys and to explore the meaning of the results using post-hoc focus groups. Although the overall findings for attitudes and preferences were similar, the two approaches resulted in some different conclusions. Health researchers should consider the advantages and limitations of both methods when determining how to measure what people value.
Measures of internal category structure: A correlational analysis of normative data

Normative data were collected from samples of students from The City University, London, and other London colleges, for 12 semantic categories. Measures of typicality, familiarity and associative frequency are listed. These data are published as a research tool for semantic memory research in the UK. The reliability and intercorrelation of the measures are reported, and their correlation with previous American measures is discussed. The results permit certain important conclusions to be drawn about the role of familiarity in typicality ratings, and about the determinants of associative frequency.
Problem Solving, Planning, and Innovation. Part I. Test of the Program Planning Model

This longitudinal research compares the Program Planning Model (PPM) with a conventional (non-PPM) planning model in the context of creating 14 new child care programs in local Texas communities. The programs planned according to the PPM are found to have more efficient services and greater community acceptance during their first year of implementation than the programs that were developed with the conventional planning process. Due to the absence of random assignments, it is not demonstrated that these results are due to planning processes alone. However, evidence is presented that suggests the PPM projects outperformed the non-PPM projects because implementation success correlates with five key dimensions of planning behavior. Implementation success increases with: (1) participation of citizens, experts, and community interest groups; (2) involvement of a policy board representing partisan interests; (3) greater and more equal distribution of planning team effort; (4) process consultation in early plann.
Experiences of young people in a 16-18 Mental Health Service.

BACKGROUND 16-18-year-old young people experience a relatively high incidence of mental health problems but there is a paucity of research on their experience of mental health services (MHS). METHOD To gain understanding of young people's experiences of 16-18 MHS, we used qualitative Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Ten young people in two 16-18 MHS were interviewed about experiences of using MHS. RESULTS Five superordinate themes emerged from the data analysis, 'Power Differentials', 'Parental Involvement', 'Developmentally Attuned Services', 'Developing Self-Expression', 'Continuity and Loss of Relationships'. CONCLUSIONS Respondents valued developmentally appropriate MHS and emphasised the value of continuity in therapeutic relationships.
Time-dependent models of two-phase accretion discs around black holes

We present time-dependent simulations of a two-phase accretion flow around a black hole. The accretion flow initially is composed of an optically thick and cool disc close to the mid-plane, while on top and below the disc there is a hot and optically thin corona. We consider several interaction mechanisms as heating of the disc by the corona and Compton cooling of the corona by the soft photons of the disc. Mass and energy can be exchanged between the disc and the corona due to thermal conduction. For the course of this more exploratory work, we limit ourselves to one particular model for a stellar mass black hole accreting at a low accretion rate. We confirm earlier both theoretical and observational results which show that at low accretion rates the disc close to the black hole cannot survive and is evaporated. Given the framework of this model, we now can follow through this phase of disc evaporation time dependently.
Hierarchical Alteration of Brain Structural and Functional Networks in Female Migraine Sufferers

Background Little is known about the changes of brain structural and functional connectivity networks underlying the pathophysiology in migraine. We aimed to investigate how the cortical network reorganization is altered by frequent cortical overstimulation associated with migraine. Methodology/Principal Findings Gray matter volumes and resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging signal correlations were employed to construct structural and functional networks between brain regions in 43 female patients with migraine (PM) and 43 gender-matched healthy controls (HC) by using graph theory-based approaches. Compared with the HC group, the patients showed abnormal global topology in both structural and functional networks, characterized by higher mean clustering coefficients without significant change in the shortest absolute path length, which indicated that the PM lost optimal topological organization in their cortical networks. Brain hubs related to pain-processing revealed abnormal nodal centrality in both structural and functional networks, including the precentral gyrus, orbital part of the inferior frontal gyrus, parahippocampal gyrus, anterior cingulate gyrus, thalamus, temporal pole of the middle temporal gyrus and the inferior parietal gyrus. Negative correlations were found between migraine duration and regions with abnormal centrality. Furthermore, the dysfunctional connections in patients' cortical networks formed into a connected component and three dysregulated modules were identified involving pain-related information processing and motion-processing visual networks. Conclusions Our results may reflect brain alteration dynamics resulting from migraine and suggest that long-term and high-frequency headache attacks may cause both structural and functional connectivity network reorganization. The disrupted information exchange between brain areas in migraine may be reshaped into a hierarchical modular structure progressively.
Two Shorter Forms of the CES-D Depression Symptoms Index

Brief measurement devices can alleviate respondent burden and lower refusal rates in surveys. This article reports on a field test of two shorter forms of the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression (CES-D) symptoms index in a multisite survey of persons 65 and older. Factor analyses demonstrate that the briefer forms tap the same symptom dimensions as does the original CES-D, and reliability statistics indicate that they sacrifice little precision. Simple transformations are presented to show how scores from the briefer forms can be compared to those of the original.
Reproductive outcomes, including neonatal data, following sperm injection in men with obstructive and nonobstructive azoospermia: case series and systematic review

We compared pregnancy outcomes following intracytoplasmic sperm injection for the treatment of male infertility according to the type of azoospermia. First, we analyzed our data from 370 couples who underwent intracytoplasmic sperm injection using sperm from men with obstructive azoospermia and nonobstructive azoospermia, and the outcomes were compared to a group of 465 non-azoospermic infertile males. Then, we performed a systematic review of the published data on pregnancy and neonatal outcomes of children born after sperm injection using sperm from men with obstructive and nonobstructive azoospermia. Live birth rates were significantly lower in the nonobstructive azoospermia group (21.4%) compared with the obstructive azoospermia (37.5%) and ejaculated sperm (32.3%) groups. A total of 326 live births resulted in 427 babies born. Differences were not observed between the groups in gestational age, preterm birth, birth weight and low birth weight, although we noted a tendency towards poorer neonatal outcomes in the azoospermia categories. The overall perinatal death and malformation rates were 2.8% and 1.6%, respectively, and the results did not differ between the groups. We identified 20 published studies that directly compared pregnancy outcomes between obstructive azoospermia and nonobstructive azoospermia. Most of these studies were not designed to detect differences in live birth rates and had lower power to detect differences in less frequent outcomes, and the reporting of neonatal outcomes was unusual. The included studies reported either a decrease or no difference in pregnancy outcomes with intracytoplasmic sperm injection in cases of nonobstructive azoospermia and obstructive azoospermia. In general, no major differences were noted in short-term neonatal outcomes and congenital malformation rates between children from fathers with nonobstructive azoospermia and obstructive azoospermia.
Allogeneic stem cell transplantation in acute lymphoblastic leukemia patients older than 60 years: a survey from the acute leukemia working party of EBMT

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is being increasingly explored as a treatment modality for older patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Yet, concerns regarding the long term outcome of transplantation in older patients limit the wide spread applicability of this approach. In this analysis we set out to determine the outcome of ALL patients over the age of 60 who underwent reduced intensity HSCT. Herein, we present the experience of the acute leukemia working party (ALWP) of the EBMT in this age group. We analyzed a cohort of 142 patients transplanted in first remission with a median age of 62 (range 60–76 years) and a median follow-up period of 36 months post-transplant. At 3 years, overall survival (OS) and leukemia-free survival were 42% and 35%, respectively. Multivariate analyses identified cytomegalovirus (CMV) donor-recipient matching (CMV D+/R+) to be significantly associated with inferior OS. Patients transplanted from unrelated donors experienced increased grade II-IV acute graft versus host disease compared to those receiving grafts from matched related donors [Hazard ratio (HR) of 3.7, 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.75–7.8; p = 0.0005). Outcome was not impacted by Philadelphia chromosome status. A select subset of older ALL patients will benefit from extended survival and a disease free state following HSCT.