Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Prenatal cocaine exposure differentially affects stress responses in girls and boys: Associations with future substance use

Abstract Prenatal cocaine exposure may affect developing stress response systems in youth, potentially creating risk for substance use in adolescence. Further, pathways from prenatal risk to future substance use may differ for girls versus boys. The present longitudinal study examined multiple biobehavioral measures, including heart rate, blood pressure, emotion, and salivary cortisol and salivary alpha amylase (sAA), in response to a stressor in 193 low-income 14- to 17-year-olds, half of whom were prenatally cocaine exposed (PCE). Youth's lifetime substance use was assessed with self-report, interview, and urine toxicology/breathalyzer at Time 1 and at Time 2 (6–12 months later). PCE × Gender interactions were found predicting anxiety, anger, and sadness responses to the stressor, with PCE girls showing heightened responses as compared to PCE boys on these indicators. Stress Response × Gender interactions were found predicting Time 2 substance use in youth (controlling for Time 1 use) for sAA and sadness; for girls, heightened sadness responses predicted substance use, but for boys, dampened sAA responses predicted substance use. Findings suggest distinct biobehavioral stress response risk profiles for boys and girls, with heightened arousal for girls and blunted arousal for boys associated with prenatal risk and future substance use outcomes.
Evaluation of Potential Early Markers of Chorioamnionitis Associated with Preterm Premature Ruptured Membranes

Optimal expectant management of preterm premature rupture of membranes (PROM) requires the early detection of chorioamnionitis. To date, however, no universally sensitive and specific marker for chorioamnionitis has been identified. Recently, the serial determination of plasma fibronectin, antithrombin, and prekallikrein has been reported to facilitate the early detection of sepsis in critically ill neonates and adult surgical patients. A cross-sectional study was undertaken to determine if plasma levels of these markers change significantly in patients with overt chorioamnionitis following expectant management of preterm PROM. Plasma levels of fibronectin and prekallikrein were not significantly different between the study (30 patients with overt chorioamnionitis following preterm PROM) and control (30 undelivered patients without antenatal complication matched for gestational age) groups. Antithrombin levels were significantly lower in the study group (p less than 0.05), but the magnitude of the difference (102% versus 94%) is not likely to be of clinical significance. We conclude that determination of plasma levels of fibronectin, prekallikrein, and antithrombin is not likely to aid in the early detection of chorioamnionitis in the setting of preterm (PROM).
Coordinated autoinhibition of F-BAR domain membrane binding and WASp activation by Nervous Wreck

Significance Membrane-deforming proteins cooperate with the cytoskeleton to sculpt lipid bilayers into complex and dynamic geometries, but we still do not understand how their activities are temporally and spatially regulated in cells. Here we show that the neuronal membrane remodeling protein Nervous Wreck (Nwk) is autoinhibited by intramolecular interactions between its membrane binding F-BAR domain and its C-terminal SRC homology 3 (SH3) domains. These autoinhibitory interactions control Fes/Cip4 homology-Bin/Amphiphysin/Rvs167 (F-BAR)–mediated membrane remodeling and also, unexpectedly, inhibit SH3-mediated actin cytoskeleton assembly. Uncoupling these dual autoregulatory mechanisms in the fruit fly leads to excess neuronal synapse growth. Thus, coordinated autoregulation couples membrane remodeling and SH3 domain activities, and is critical for proper control of neuronal shape and size. Membrane remodeling by Fes/Cip4 homology-Bin/Amphiphysin/Rvs167 (F-BAR) proteins is regulated by autoinhibitory interactions between their SRC homology 3 (SH3) and F-BAR domains. The structural basis of autoregulation, and whether it affects interactions of SH3 domains with other cellular ligands, remain unclear. Here we used single-particle electron microscopy to determine the structure of the F-BAR protein Nervous Wreck (Nwk) in both soluble and membrane-bound states. On membrane binding, Nwk SH3 domains do not completely dissociate from the F-BAR dimer, but instead shift from its concave surface to positions on either side of the dimer. Unexpectedly, along with controlling membrane binding, these autoregulatory interactions inhibit the ability of Nwk-SH3a to activate Wiskott–Aldrich syndrome protein (WASp)/actin related protein (Arp) 2/3-dependent actin filament assembly. In Drosophila neurons, Nwk autoregulation restricts SH3a domain-dependent synaptopod formation, synaptic growth, and actin organization. Our results define structural rearrangements in Nwk that control F-BAR–membrane interactions as well as SH3 domain activities, and suggest that these two functions are tightly coordinated in vitro and in vivo.
Religion in Newspapers in The Nordic Countries in 1988–2008

This article examines the coverage of religion in Nordic newspapers during 1988, 1998 and 2008. Through quantitative analyses of 5,000 articles in 14 newspapers, we examine the differences between the five Nordic countries and changes from 1988 to 2008. The results show that the coverage of the Lutheran majority churches in newspapers is generally declining, especially in Sweden. This is the case also during major Christian holidays. Newspapers present religion differently, in the sense that regional papers present a more traditional view of religion and religion is least covered in the tabloid press. There are differences between the five Nordic countries. The newspaper media seems to serve both as a secularising force in society, contesting the role of the majority churches – especially in Sweden and Denmark – and as support for a greater visibility of religion in the public sphere.
Real convergence using TAR panel unit root tests: an application to Southern African Development Community

The recent European Union crisis has sparked renewed interest in the achievement of convergence among potential member states prior to the establishment of a monetary union. This article examines real convergence in the per capita output of SADC countries using annual data from 1980 to 2013. An extension of the Evans & Karrasâ€™ approach that combines threshold modelling, panel data unit root testing and critical values bootstrapping is used in order to test for convergence. We find that the TAR specification outperforms the linear specification while testing convergence among the SADC richer countries and the SADC community as a whole. While considering the SADC middle income countries, the CMA and SACU regions; the linear performs better. Strong significant convergence is found only for SADC richer countries and the SACU union while the middle countries are characterized by a weak convergence. For the SADC community as a whole and the CMA region, there is significant divergence. These findings cast doubt on the establishment of an efficient monetary union among SADCâ€™ member states in the short run.
Financial conditions and economic activity: the potential impact of the targeted long-term refinancing operations (TLTROs)

Abstract This article explores the relationship between financial conditions and real economic activity in the euro area as a whole and for Greece in particular. We use a financial conditions index (see Angelopoulou et al. 2014) which is constructed using a wide range of prices, quantities, spreads and survey data in line with theory. We update the indices and use them within a VAR framework to estimate the potential impact of the targeted long-term refinancing operations (TLTROs) on aspects of economic activity. Our results suggest that financial conditions do have a significant effect on economic activity, and thus the TLTROs, to the extent that they are designed to improve financial conditions, will provide a boost to the real economy.
Imaging Cajal’s neuronal avalanche: how wide-field optical imaging of the point-spread advanced the understanding of neocortical structure–function relationship

Abstract. This review brings together a collection of studies that specifically use wide-field high-resolution mesoscopic level imaging techniques (intrinsic signal optical imaging; voltage-sensitive dye optical imaging) to image the cortical point spread (PS): the total spread of cortical activation comprising a large neuronal ensemble evoked by spatially restricted (point) stimulation of the sensory periphery (e.g., whisker, pure tone, point visual stimulation). The collective imaging findings, combined with supporting anatomical and electrophysiological findings, revealed some key aspects about the PS including its very large (radius of several mm) and relatively symmetrical spatial extent capable of crossing cytoarchitectural borders and trespassing into other cortical areas; its relationship with underlying evoked subthreshold activity and underlying anatomical system of long-range horizontal projections within gray matter, both also crossing borders; its contextual modulation and plasticity; the ability of its relative spatiotemporal profile to remain invariant to major changes in stimulation parameters; its potential role as a building block for integrative cortical activity; and its ubiquitous presence across various cortical areas and across mammalian species. Together, these findings advance our understanding about the neocortex at the mesoscopic level by underscoring that the cortical PS constitutes a fundamental motif of neocortical structure–function relationship.
ATP‐dependent protein kinase activities in the oral pathogen Streptococcus mutans

ATP‐dependent protein kinase activities were detected in both membrane and cytoplasmic fractions from the oral pathogen Streptococcus mutans. Different polypeptides were phosphorylated by endogenous kinase(s) in the two fractions. In membranes, five phosphoproteins were detected with apparent masses of 82, 37, 22, 12, and 10 kilodaltons (KD). In cytoplasm, two major acid‐stable phosphoproteins were found. One was identified as HPr of the, phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP)‐dependent phosphotransferase system (PTS), while the other had an apparent mass of 61 KD. Both of these proteins were phosphorylated on a seryl residue. Fructose 1,6‐bisphosphate stimulated phosphorylation of HPr by the kinase and inhibited phosphorylation of the 61‐KD protein. In contrast, fructose 1‐phosphate, 2‐phosphoglycerate, 3‐phosphoglycerate, and dihydroxyacetone phosphate inhibited phosphorylation of HPr and stimulated phosphorylation of the 61‐KD protein. Several other glycolytic intermediates as well as inorganic phosphate inhibited phosphorylation of either or both proteins. Preincubation of cytoplasm with PEP prior to incubation with ATP reduced the amount of phospho‐(seryl)‐HPr formed, but not that of the 61‐KD phosphoprotein. The latter protein has not yet been identified but has properties that suggest that it may be the protein kinase itself. These results provide evidence for one or more soluble ATP‐dependent protein kinases in S mutans that are regulated by glycolytic intermediates and that may play a role in the modulation of carbohydrate uptake and metabolism in this organism. A model for feedback regulation of sugar transport in S mutans, mediated by an allosterically regulated kinase is presented.
An msbB Homologue Carried in Plasmid pO157 Encodes an Acyltransferase Involved in Lipid A Biosynthesis in Escherichia coli O157:H7

ABSTRACT Escherichia coli O157:H7 carries a chromosomal msbB1 and a plasmid-encoded msbB2 gene. We characterized msbB2 function as a homologue of msbB1 by examination of wild-type organisms and mutant strains that lacked functional msbB1, msbB2, and both msbB1 and msbB2. The msbB double-mutant strain generated pentaacyl lipid A, while the single-mutant strains synthesized hexaacyl lipid A. Complementation with overexpressed msbB2 converted pentaacyl into hexaacyl lipid A in the double-mutant strain. The transcription of both msbB genes occurred simultaneously. Lack of MsbB2 activity slightly increased the microheterogeneity of the lipid A species. These results suggest that the msbB2 gene plays a role not only in the routine generation of fully hexaacylated lipid A but also in suppressing the microheterogeneity of lipid A species, the endotoxic determinant of the organism.
Apolipoprotein A-II regulates HDL stability and affects hepatic lipase association and activity Published, JLR Papers in Press, February 16, 2004. DOI 10.1194/jlr.M300431-JLR200

The effect of apolipoprotein A-II (apoA-II) on the structure and stability of HDL has been investigated in reconstituted HDL particles. Purified human apoA-II was incorporated into sonicated, spherical LpA-I particles containing apoA-I, phospholipids, and various amounts of triacylglycerol (TG), diacylglycerol (DG), and/or free cholesterol. Although the addition of PC to apoA-I reduces the thermodynamic stability (free energy of denaturation) of its α-helices, PC has the opposite effect on apoA-II and significantly increases its helical stability. Similarly, substitution of apoA-I with various amounts of apoA-II significantly increases the thermodynamic stability of the particle α-helical structure. ApoA-II also increases the size and net negative charge of the lipoprotein particles. ApoA-II directly affects apoA-I conformation and increases the immunoreactivity of epitopes in the N and C termini of apoA-I but decreases the exposure of central domains in the molecule (residues 98–186). ApoA-II appears to increase HL association with HDL and inhibits lipid hydrolysis. ApoA-II mildly inhibits PC hydrolysis in TG-enriched particles but significantly inhibits DG hydrolysis in DG-rich LpA-I. In addition, apoA-II enhances the ability of reconstituted LpA-I particles to inhibit VLDL-TG hydrolysis by HL. Therefore, apoA-II affects both the structure and the dynamic behavior of HDL particles and selectively modifies lipid metabolism.
The Taylor Principle and Indeterminacy Under a Financial Market Imperfection

This paper investigates the impact of a financial market imperfection on the conditions that monetary policy rules must satisfy for the determinacy of a rational-expectations equilibrium. A financial market imperfection can disturb intertemporal substitution in certain cases. If a financial market is sufficiently imperfect, this imperfection can cause the real interest rate elasticity of aggregate demand to become positive. In this case, the Taylor principle is not the unique necessary and sufficient condition for monetary policy rules to ensure determinacy. If the central bank responds to current inflation, then the Taylor principle is a sufficient, but not a necessary, condition. Moreover, if the bank responds to expected inflation, the Taylor principle is neither a necessary nor a sufficient condition. Our calibration results suggest that it may be dangerous for a central bank to adhere solely to the Taylor principle when real financial markets are immature or bankrupt, as was the case for the Japanese market during the 1990s.
Measurement of Lens Protein Aggregation in Vivo Using Dynamic Light Scattering in a Guinea Pig/UVA Model for Nuclear Cataract

The role of UVA radiation in the formation of human nuclear cataract is not well understood. We have previously shown that exposing guinea pigs for 5 months to a chronic low level of UVA light produces increased lens nuclear light scattering and elevated levels of protein disulfide. Here we have used the technique of dynamic light scattering (DLS) to investigate lens protein aggregation in vivo in the guinea pig/UVA model. DLS size distribution analysis conducted at the same location in the lens nucleus of control and UVA‐irradiated animals showed a 28% reduction in intensity of small diameter proteins in experimental lenses compared with controls (P < 0.05). In addition, large diameter proteins in UVA‐exposed lens nuclei increased five‐fold in intensity compared to controls (P < 0.05). The UVA‐induced increase in apparent size of lens nuclear small diameter proteins was three‐fold (P < 0.01), and the size of large diameter aggregates was more than four‐fold in experimental lenses compared with controls. The diameter of crystallin aggregates in the UVA‐irradiated lens nucleus was estimated to be 350 nm, a size able to scatter light. No significant changes in protein size were detected in the anterior cortex of UVA‐irradiated lenses. It is presumed that the presence of a UVA chromophore in the guinea pig lens (NADPH bound to zeta crystallin), as well as traces of oxygen, contributed to UVA‐induced crystallin aggregation. The results indicate a potentially harmful role for UVA light in the lens nucleus. A similar process of UVA‐irradiated protein aggregation may take place in the older human lens nucleus, accelerating the formation of human nuclear cataract.
Annual research review: Current limitations and future directions in MRI studies of child- and adult-onset developmental psychopathologies.

BACKGROUND The widespread use of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in the study of child- and adult-onset developmental psychopathologies has generated many investigations that have measured brain structure and function in vivo throughout development, often generating great excitement over our ability to visualize the living, developing brain using the attractive, even seductive images that these studies produce. Often lost in this excitement is the recognition that brain imaging generally, and MRI in particular, is simply a technology, one that does not fundamentally differ from any other technology, be it a blood test, a genotyping assay, a biochemical assay, or behavioral test. No technology alone can generate valid scientific findings. Rather, it is only technology coupled with a strong experimental design that can generate valid and reproducible findings that lead to new insights into the mechanisms of disease and therapeutic response. METHODS In this review we discuss selected studies to illustrate the most common and important limitations of MRI study designs as most commonly implemented thus far, as well as the misunderstanding that the interpretations of findings from those studies can create for our theories of developmental psychopathologies. RESULTS Common limitations of MRI study designs are in large part responsible thus far for the generally poor reproducibility of findings across studies, poor generalizability to the larger population, failure to identify developmental trajectories, inability to distinguish causes from effects of illness, and poor ability to infer causal mechanisms in most MRI studies of developmental psychopathologies. For each of these limitations in study design and the difficulties they entail for the interpretation of findings, we discuss various approaches that numerous laboratories are now taking to address those difficulties, which have in common the yoking of brain imaging technologies to studies with inherently stronger designs that permit more valid and more powerful causal inferences. Those study designs include epidemiological, longitudinal, high-risk, clinical trials, and multimodal imaging studies. CONCLUSIONS We highlight several studies that have yoked brain imaging technologies to these stronger designs to illustrate how doing so can aid our understanding of disease mechanisms and in the foreseeable future can improve clinical diagnosis, prevention, and treatment planning for developmental psychopathologies.
Complex segregation analysis of low levels of plasma high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol in a sample of nuclear families in Jerusalem

Low levels of high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) are associated with increased risk of coronary heart diesease (CHD). Therefore, assessment of the mode of inheritance of HDL‐C is of importance. HDL‐C concentrations in 3,074 nuclear families in the multiethnic Jerusalem Lipid Research Center study population were analyzed for possible involvement of major genes in determination of low levels of this trait. Complex segregation analysis under the mixed model of inheritance (major gene and multifactorial components) was performed on transformed HDL‐C concentrations after adjustment for age, sex, and environmental measures. Evidence for segregation of a recessive major gene for depressed HDL‐C, with an allele frequency of q = 0.06, in addition to multifactorial transmission (H = 0.45) was found in these families. Estimates from the mixed model were homogeneous across the different ethnic groups. When the substantial multifactorial background was excluded from the model, we found evidence for an additive (codominant) Mendelian gene (d = 0.48), which demonstrates the necessity of using the mixed model. Our previous results were inconclusive with respect to the involvement of a major gene in determination of high levels of HDL‐C. However, we tentatively postulate an uncommon recessive gene for low levels of HDL‐C in the Israeli population in addition to polygenic and environmental determinants.
Structural Differences in Hippocampal and Prefrontal Gray Matter Volume Support Flexible Context-Dependent Navigation Ability

Spatial navigation is a fundamental part of daily life. Humans differ in their individual abilities to flexibly navigate their world, and a critical question is how this variability relates to differences in underlying brain structure. Our experiment examined individual differences in the ability to flexibly navigate routes that overlap with, and must be distinguished from, previously learned trajectories. We related differences in flexible navigation performance to differences in brain morphology in healthy young adults using voxel-based morphometry. Our findings provide novel evidence that individual differences in gray matter volume in the hippocampus and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex correlate with our ability rapidly to learn and flexibly navigate routes through our world.
Why have the recent oil price declines not stimulated global economic growth

We analyze the global relationship between oil prices, commodity-specific financial marketshocks and economic activity by means of Structural Vector Autoregressive (SVAR) models for the period 1996 - 2015. For the financial market variables in our model, we use a breakdown of G-20 countries into net commodity exporting and importing countries to compute the real exchange rate between the country groups as well as the corresponding interest rate spread. Regarding the discussion about the missing expansionary effects of the recent oil price declines at the global level, our empirical framework tests the following transmission: A downgrading of financial conditions for commodity exporting countries can lead to a more serious decline of their domestic demand as should be expected from the pure income effect of lower export revenues due to lower oil prices. Therefore, missing expansionary effects of the recent oil price declines should not only be traced back to the absence of expansionary monetary policy effects at the zero lower bound in many commodity importing countries, but also to a high dependency of commodity exporting countries on international financial markets.