Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Trait Empathy and Criminal Versatility in Sexual Offenders

Associations between trait empathy and criminal versatility were examined in a sample of 88 incarcerated adult sexual offenders (29 extrafamilial child molesters, 26 intrafamilial child molesters, and 33 rapists). Considerable criminal versatility was observed, with 60% of the whole sample and 88% of recidivist offenders having previous convictions for nonsexual offenses. Regression analyses showed significant associations between trait empathy and nonsexual offense convictions, but not between trait empathy and sexual offense convictions. More specifically, greater involvement in violent offending (e.g., assault, robbery) was associated with lower levels of empathic concern and higher levels of fantasy. Greater involvement in miscellaneous (e.g., traffic, drug, public order) offending was associated with lower levels of empathic concern. We argue that insufficient theoretical and empirical attention has historically been given to criminal versatility among sexual offenders, especially among child molesters. In particular, we suggest that developments in empathy training for sexual offenders may benefit from distinguishing needs of criminally versatile and non-versatile sexual offenders. More knowledge about trait empathy in sexual offenders, and about situational factors that may override otherwise normal empathic responsiveness, is needed.
20-GHz 8 $\times$ 8-bit Parallel Carry-Save Pipelined RSFQ Multiplier

We will discuss the microarchitecture, design, and testing of the first 8 × 8-bit (by modulo 256) parallel carry-save RSFQ multiplier implemented using the ISTEC 10- kA/cm2 1.0-μm fabrication technology. Partial products are asynchronously generated and sent to the reduction stage at the internal “hardwired” rate of 80 GHz. The 8 &times; 8-bit RSFQ multiplier uses a two-level parallel carry-save reduction tree that significantly reduces the multiplier latency. The 80-GHz carry-save reduction is implemented with asynchronous data-driven wave-pipelined [4:2] compressors built with toggle flip-flop cells. The design has mostly regular layout with both local and global connections between modules. The multiplier core (without SFQ-to-DC and DC-to-SFQ converters) has 5948 Josephson junctions occupying the area of 3.5 mm2 . The multiplier is designed with the target operation frequency of 20 GHz and has the latency of 447 ps at the bias voltage of 2.5 mV. Despite some challenges due to fabrication process parameter variations and flux trapping, the multiplier chip was fabricated and successfully tested for the vast majority of test vectors by the Stony Brook designers with the assistance of colleagues from Yokohama National University in February 2012. While multiplier test operations were generated at low frequency, each of these operations was executed at the “hardwired” rate of 80 GHz. The fabricated chip operated with the measured DC bias margins of ±5%.
Grape seed extract as a potential remineralizing agent: a comparative in vitro study.

OBJECTIVE Remineralization is an effective treatment that may stop or reverse early tooth decay. Grape seed extract (GSE) is the potential remineralizing agent under investigation. MATERIALS AND METHODS Sound human tooth sections were obtained from the cervical portion of the root and stored in demineralizing solution at 37°C for 96 hours to induce artificial root caries lesions. The sections were divided into four treatment groups including 6.5% grape seed extract, sodium monofluorophosphate (220 ppm) with 0.05% calcium glycerophosphate, 0.5% calcium glycerophosphate and control (no treatment). An in vitro pH cycling model was used to cycle the demineralized specimens through treatment solutions, acidic buffer and neutral buffer for 8 days at 6 cycles per day. Subsequently, they were evaluated using confocal laser scanning microscope. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance (p < 0.05). RESULTS GSE revealed less demineralization and more remineralization compared with other groups. CONCLUSION GSE promotes remineralization of artificial root caries lesions. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE The search for the perfect remineralizing agent continues to this day. GSE could be a welcome addition to the remineralization armamentarium.
Can Hypo/Hypernatremic Conditions be a Factor for Na Ion Channel Kinetics: Model Study.

AIM Dysnatremic cases are frequently faced in clinical practice. Its macroscopic effects and consequences are well known, but microscopic effects are not well defined. The aim of this study was to reveal the effects of dysnatremia at the cellular level. MATERIAL AND METHODS By using an action potential simulation, the effects of extracellular sodium (Na) concentration on the Na ion channel kinetics were studied. The experimental sets were chosen to mimic hypo/hypernatremic conditions and, in both cases, the degree of the severity was varied. RESULTS Hyponatremic situations through modifying the axonal Na+ channels kinetics result in the rundown of the sodium current (INa). The degree of the hyponatremia-dependent effect seen in the Na ion channel is severity dependent, which is more effective in the recovery phase of the ion channel. Hypernatremic conditions, on the other hand, have also affected the Na ion channel activity through modifying the kinetics of the channel. Unlike hyponatremia, the effect seen in hypernatremic conditions was through decreasing the response time of the channel. The degree of the significance of the effect seen on the Na ion channel in the case of the hypernatremia was found to be less destructive compared to the hyponatremic condition. CONCLUSION The Na channels are susceptible to the changes of the extracellular Na concentrations. Thus, the underestimation of hypo/hypernatremic conditions can put patients in danger and close monitoring of serum Na level might be required.
The new strategy based on innovative projects in microelectronics and nanotechnologies

The training in microelectronics and nanotechnologies in France is structured as a national network since more than 30 years. This network is composed of 12 regional interuniversity centers including technological, design, and test facilities. It is presently a Public Interest Consortium (GIP), an official structure founded by the Ministry of Higher Education, a kind of Open University without walls. The network mission is to support animation and educational activities in this field at a national level. In order to maintain both quality and attractiveness to students, as well as the motivation of the professorial body and the adaptation to the economical world, a strategy of innovative projects has been established since 2006. Innovative project consist to propose the creation of a new lab-work that needs new equipment and the adaptation of the educator. This approach has been reinforced by the support of specific multiannual programs since 2009 and more especially in the frame of Excellence Initiative Program (IDEFI). The first achievements of these pedagogical projects have already been transferred to the menus of the common centers and have already showed all their interest as well at master and engineer degrees, as doctorate studies and lifelong learning.
The Adult Attachment Projective Picture System: Integrating Attachment Into Clinical Assessment

This article summarizes the development and validation of the Adult Attachment Projective System (AAP), a measure we developed from the Bowlby–Ainsworth developmental tradition to assess adult attachment status. The AAP has demonstrated excellent concurrent validity with the Adult Attachment Interview (George, Kaplan, & Main, 1984/1985/1996; Main & Goldwyn, 1985–1994; Main, Goldwyn, & Hesse, 2003), interjudge reliability, and test–retest reliability, with no effects of verbal intelligence or social desirability. The AAP coding and classification system and application in clinical and community samples are summarized. Finally, we introduce the 3 other articles that are part of this Special Section and discuss the use of the AAP in therapeutic assessment and treatment.
Formulation, In vitro and In vivo Evaluation of Taste MaskedRasagiline Orally Fast Disintegrating Tablets (ODTS)

Orally disintegrating tablets (ODTs) have become a rapidly growing area in the pharmaceutical industry during the last decade. Drugs exhibit the advantage of good absorption from the oral mucosa or intending for immediate pharmacological action can be formulated as ODT dosage forms. Rasagiline, a second generation, selective, irreversible inhibitor of mono amine oxidase type B drug, is primarily responsible for inactivation of dopamine in central nervous system (CNS) and has been used to treat long term Parkinson’s disease. As Rasagiline undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism resulting in low bioavailability, ODT dosage form can be a good alternative. In this study, Rasagiline ODT formulations were developed using Crospovidone, Ac-Di-Sol and Parteck® ODT superdisintegrants in two different concentrations, and also the unpleasant taste of the Rasagiline was improved with using a polymer; Eudragit EPO. ODTs were evaluated by means of in vitro quality control tests and an in vivo animal study was performed to evaluate the bioavailability of the Rasagiline ODT versus conventional tablet. As a result, precompressional parameters for Rasagiline ODTs indicated fair flow properties. All Rasagiline ODT formulations satisfied the requirements of FDA for rapid dissolving tablets and allowed more than 85% drug to be dissolved within 30 minutes. Among the investigated superdisintegrants; Ac-Di-Sol is found more effective (7.6%) for its enhancing the rate and water uptake effect and dissolution. Thus, it can be concluded that Rasagiline ODTs may be an alternative solution to overcome the low bioavailability problems occurred with conventional therapy.
Biometric validation of a virtual reality-based psychomotor test for motor skill training

ABSTRACT Psychomotor tests have been applied in clinical therapy and laboratory research as tools for evaluating motor and cognitive skills. Some studies have developed computerized versions of such tests using virtual reality (VR) systems with haptic interface controls. These systems allow for increased flexibility in test delivery and accuracy in performance assessment. In this study, a VR-based computer simulation of the block design (BD) test (a standardized psychomotor task as part of an adult IQ test) was developed and compared with the physical version of the test. Performance was evaluated based on four types of muscle activation collected using electromyography (EMG), time spent in completing the task, and subjective ratings of workload. Results verified the VR-based task as physically comparable to the conventional BD test. The validated computerized psychomotor task may be applied for both experimental and clinical use in future studies.
Ultrastructural distinction between reticular and collagenous fibers with an ammoniacal silver stain

Reticular and collagenous fibers stain differently when subjected to ammoniacal silver reduction. A variety of tissues were subjected to such a “reticulin” technique and the association of reaction product with intercellular connective tissue elements was studied with the electron microscope. The reaction with reticular fibers was primarily associated with the interfibrillar matrix, and was globular in form having a wide variety of particle sizes. Conversely, in dermal collagen the unit fibrils were stained rather than the interfibrillar matrix. The precipitate was punctate in form and was associated with the cross striations of unit collagen fibrils. Large microfibrils also reacted positively with the stain, imparting a faint periodicity. Basement membranes were stained uniquely. The underlying plasmalemma and the lamina densa were heavily stained with silver while the lamina lucida was relatively unstained. The unit fibrils of the lamina reticularis stained in the same manner as dermal unit collagen while the ground substance remained unstained. This represents a clear distinction between the argentophilic characteristics of collagenous fibers, reticular fibers, and basement membranes.
A novel, erythroid cell-specific murine transcription factor that binds to the CACCC element and is related to the Krüppel family of nuclear proteins

We describe a novel erythroid cell-specific cDNA (EKLF [erythroid Krüppel-like factor]) isolated by enriching for genes expressed in a mouse erythroleukemia cell line but not expressed in a mouse monocyte-macrophage cell line. The complete cDNA sequence is predicted to encode a protein of approximately 38,000 Da that contains a proline-rich amino domain and three TFIIIA-like zinc fingers within the carboxy domain. Additional sequence analyses reveal that the EKLF zinc fingers are most homologous to the Krüppel family of transcription factors and also allow us to predict potential DNA-binding target sites for the EKLF protein. On the basis of this prediction, we show that EKLF is able to bind the sequence CCA CAC CCT, an essential element of the beta-globin promoter. Its tissue distribution establishes that the EKLF transcript is expressed only in bone marrow and spleen, the two hematopoietic organs of the mouse, and analysis of murine cell lines indicates that EKLF expression is limited to erythroid and mast cell lines. Cotransfection assays establish that EKLF transcriptionally activates a target promoter that contains its DNA-binding site. The tissue expression pattern of EKLF, in conjunction with its function as a transcriptional activator, strongly suggests that the EKLF protein may be intimately involved in establishment and/or maintenance of the erythroid cell phenotype.
Aup1-mediated Regulation of Rtg3 during Mitophagy*

Mitophagy is an autophagic process that degrades mitochondria by an intracellular engulfment that leads to their delivery into the lumen of the cell's hydrolytic compartment, such as the lysosome in animal cells or the vacuole in yeast. It is hypothesized that such processes serve a quality control function to prevent or slow the accumulation of malfunctioning mitochondria, which are thought in turn to underlie central aspects of the aging process in eukaryotic organisms. We recently identified a conserved mitochondrial protein phosphatase homolog, Aup1, which is required for efficient stationary phase mitophagy in yeast. In the present report, we demonstrate that the retrograde signaling pathway (RTG) is defective in aup1Δ mutants. In agreement with a role for Aup1 in the regulation of the RTG pathway, we find that deletion of RTG3, a transcription factor that mediates the RTG response, causes a defect in stationary phase mitophagy and that deletion of AUP1 leads to changes in Rtg3 phosphorylation patterns under these conditions. In addition, we find that mitophagic conditions lead to induction of RTG pathway target genes in an Aup1-dependent fashion. Thus, our results suggest that the function of Aup1 in mitophagy could be explained through its regulation of Rtg3-dependent transcription.
From source coding to MIMO - a multi-level unequal error protection

In this paper, unequal error protection (UEP) on different levels of the transmission system is proposed. Starting from the source coding level, two priority layers are produced, high priority (HP) and low priority (LP). At channel coding, each priority layer is turbo encoded with a coding rate that reflects its importance. For modulation, a more immune modulation mode is used to modulate the HP bit stream. Finally at the transmission level, a 3 × 3 MIMO is used, where more transmit antennas and time slots are offered to HP data. This arrangement of inequality over several levels increases the flexibility of the UEP system and leads to a better performance. Results show that the proposed system outperforms other semi-unequal and equal error protection systems over a wide range of channel signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), especially at low SNR values.
Viral Gene Transfer Rescues Arrhythmogenic Phenotype and Ultrastructural Abnormalities in Adult Calsequestrin-Null Mice With Inherited Arrhythmias

Rationale: Catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia is an inherited disease that predisposes to cardiac arrest and sudden death. The disease is associated with mutations in the genes encoding for the cardiac ryanodine receptor (RyR2) and cardiac calsequestrin (CASQ2). CASQ2 mutations lead to a major loss of CASQ2 monomers, possibly because of enhanced degradation of the mutant protein. The decrease of CASQ2 is associated with a reduction in the levels of Triadin (TrD) and Junctin (JnC), two proteins that form, with CASQ2 and RyR2, a macromolecular complex devoted to control of calcium release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum. Objective: We intended to evaluate whether viral gene transfer of wild-type CASQ2 may rescue the broad spectrum of abnormalities caused by mutant CASQ2. Methods and Results: We used an adeno-associated serotype 9 viral vector to express a green fluorescent protein-tagged CASQ2 construct. Twenty weeks after intraperitoneal injection of the vector in neonate CASQ2 KO mice, we observed normalization of the levels of calsequestrin, triadin, and junctin, rescue of electrophysiological and ultrastructural abnormalities caused by CASQ2 ablation, and lack of life-threatening arrhythmias. Conclusions: We have proven the concept that induction of CASQ2 expression in knockout mice reverts the molecular, structural, and electric abnormalities and prevents life-threatening arrhythmias in CASQ2-defective catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia mice. These data support the view that development of CASQ2 viral gene transfer could have clinical application.
Characteristics of adolescents' sexual partners and their association with use of condoms and other contraceptive methods.

CONTEXT While a number of studies have examined the association between individuals' characteristics and their contraceptive use, few studies have examined the influence of partners' characteristics on individuals' contraceptive use. METHODS Using nationally representative data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health, multiple logistic analyses were conducted to identify associations between the demographic characteristics of adolescents' heterosexual partners and adolescents' use of condoms or other contraceptive methods. RESULTS The partners of white and black adolescents were likely to be similar to them, while the partners of Latino adolescents and of adolescents of "other" race or ethnicity were more likely to be of a different racial or ethnic group. Differences in age between adolescents and their partners were notable in all racial and ethnic groups. As adolescents age, the characteristics of their partners become more heterogeneous. The less similar adolescents and their partners are to one another--whether because of a difference in age, grade or school--the less likely adolescents are to use condoms and other contraceptive methods. CONCLUSIONS Many adolescents have relationships with partners whose characteristics differ from theirs and with whom they are less likely to use condoms or other contraceptive methods. This behavior is more common as adolescents grow older. To provide appropriate counseling, sexuality educators and family planning providers need to consider the ways in which adolescents' relationships change as they age and discuss with them the dynamics of relationships involving partners who differ in age or other characteristics.
Protein Kinase C δ Associates with the Interleukin-6 Receptor Subunit Glycoprotein (gp) 130 via Stat3 and Enhances Stat3-gp130 Interaction*

The transcriptional regulation of Stat proteins is controlled through their C-terminal domains, which harbor both a tyrosine phosphorylation site, required for dimerization and subsequent nuclear translocation, and a serine phosphorylation site, required for maximum transcriptional activity. Previously, we reported that protein kinase Cδ (PKCδ) phosphorylates and interacts with Stat3 in an interleukin (IL)-6-dependent manner. In this study, we further characterized this interaction, and investigated the potential role of such an interaction. We show here that the catalytic domain of PKCδ interacts with the Src homology 2 domain and part of the adjacent C-terminal transactivation domain of Stat3. This interaction, which does not seem to involve a classical phosphotyrosine SH2-mediated binding, however, significantly enhances the interaction of Stat3 and the IL-6 receptor subunit glycoprotein (gp) 130, which is the initial step for Stat3 activation by IL-6. Expression of a dominant negative PKCδ or depletion of the endogenous PKCδ by phorbol 12-myristate 3-acetate treatment abrogates the association of Stat3 with gp130. At the same time, PKCδ is recruited to gp130 via association with Stat3, which may facilitate its phosphorylation on the gp130 receptor. Finally, we identified Thr-890, a putative PKC phosphorylation site on gp130, to be critical for the effect of PKCδ. Our data indicate that PKCδ plays important regulatory roles in IL-6 signaling.
Mouse brain CD4 transcripts encode only the COOH-terminal half of the protein

The T-cell surface glycoprotein CD4 is thought to function as a receptor for class II major histocompatibility complex molecules. Human CD4 is also the lymphoid cell receptor for human immunodeficiency virus, the causative agent of acquired immune deficiency syndrome. The observed infection of the central nervous system in acquired immune deficiency syndrome patients raises the possibility that CD4 is also present in nerve tissue and that a cell surface receptor for class II major histocompatibility complex antigens could play a role in central nervous system function. This possibility is reinforced by the detection of unique CD4-related transcripts in mouse and human brain tissue. In this study, the structure of the mouse brain CD4 transcript was determined. It is identical to the last two-thirds of the CD4 message and is capable of encoding a 217-residue protein that would consist of a truncated, 154-residue, cell surface region, together with the complete CD4 transmembrane and cytoplasmic regions. It would not include an amino-terminal hydrophobic leader peptide.
Analysis of multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells used for acute graft‐versus‐host disease prophylaxis

Multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are used for prophylaxis of acute graft‐versus‐host disease (aGvHD) after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo‐HCT). Not all samples of MSC are efficient for aGvHD prevention. The suitability of MSCs for aGvHD prophylaxis was studied.
Surface pressure-dependent conformation change of apolipoprotein-derived amphipathic α-helices[S]

Amphipathic α-helices (AαH) are the primary structural motif of exchangeable apolipoproteins. AαHs in exchangeable apolipoproteins adsorb, remodel, and desorb at the surface of plasma lipoproteins in response to changes in their size or composition. A triolein/water (TO/W) interface was used as a model surface to study adsorption and desorption of AαHs at a lipoprotein-like interface. We previously reported that AαH peptides spontaneously adsorb to a TO/W interface, but they only partially desorb from the surface when the excess peptide was removed from the system. This finding suggests that “exchangeable” apolipoproteins are in fact partially exchangeable and only desorb from a surface in response to compression or change in composition. Here, we develop a thermodynamic and kinetic model to describe this phenomenon based on the change in the interfacial pressure (Π) of the C-terminal 46 amino acids of apolipoprotein A-I (C46) at a TO/W interface. This model suggests that apolipoproteins have at least two interfacial conformations that are in a surface concentration and Π-dependent equilibrium. This two-state surface equilibrium model, which is based on experimental data and is consistent with dynamic changes in Π(t), provides insights into the selective metabolism and clearance of plasma lipoproteins and the process of lipoprotein remodeling.