Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The relationship between coping behaviours, their effectiveness and alcoholism relapse and survival.

Summary The results of a Principal Components analysis of the Effectiveness of Coping Behaviours Inventory (ECBl) administered to 256 hospitalized alcoholic patients are compared with the results of the Coping Behaviours Inventory (CBI) administered to the same sample and also compared with a reanalysis of data obtained from‘a different sample 5years ago. The results indicate that the factor structure of the ECBI and CBI are similar. The four factors emerging from the present study, accounting for 59 per cent of the variance were: 1. Positive Thinking 2. Negative Thinking 3. Avoidance/Distraction 4. Seeking Social Supports While the scores on the CBI at intake did not discriminate between subsequent relapsers and survivors, the factor scores on the ECBI at intake on‘Positive Thinking'and ‘Avoidance/Distraction’ were found to be predictive of subsequent outcome 6 to 12 months later. The clinical implications are discussed in terms of coping strategies for relapse prevention treatment.
[Developing Perceived Competence Scale (PCS) for Adolescents].

In this study, Perceived Competence Scale was developed to measure high school students' perceived competence. Scale development process was verified on three different samples. Participants of the research are some high school students in 2011-2012 academic terms from Ankara. Participants' numbers are incorporated in exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis and test-retest reliability respectively, as follows: 372, 668 and 75. Internal consistency coefficients (Cronbach's and stratified α) are calculated separately for each group. For data analysis Factor 8.02 and LISREL 8.70 package programs were used. According to results of the analyses, internal consistency coefficients (α) are . 90 - . 93 for academic competence, . 82 - . 86 for social competence in the samples that exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis performed. For the whole scale internal consistency coefficient (stratified α) is calculated as . 91. As a result of test-retest reliability, adjusted correlation coefficients (r) are . 94 for social competence and . 90 for academic competence. In addition, to fit indexes and regression weights obtained from factor analysis, findings related convergent and discriminant validity, indicating that competence can be addressed in two dimensions which are academic (16 items) and social (14 items).
Algorithmic Trading Systems: A Multifaceted View of Adoption

Algorithmic trading has been blamed for an increasing level of volatility in a number of financial markets. Adoption and deployment of algorithmic trading systems has increased and this is likely to continue, as regulation, competition and innovation drive the development of advanced technological tools. Expert and intelligent systems provide the mechanics for both reacting to and affecting a financial market that is now significantly faster and operating across multiple time zones and markets. Surprisingly, much of this innovation has escaped discussion within the Information Systems research community. This paper explores this growing arena by engaging with senior practitioners in the industry and using interviews and grounded theory (GT) analysis to uncover their adoption concerns. The paper generalises these issues within a framework and guidelines aimed at supporting algorithmic trading system adoption, deployment and development.
Quantum Dots in Biomedical Research

Quantum dots (QDs) are colloidal semiconductor nanocrystals which have unique optical properties due to their three dimensional quantum confinement regime. The quantum confinement may be explained as follows: in a semiconductor bulk material the valence and conduction band are separated by a band gap (Eg). After light absorption, an electron (e-) can be excited from the valence band to the conduction band, leaving a hole (h+) in the valence band. When the electron returns to the valence band, fluorescence is emitted. During the small time scale of the light absorption the eand h+ perceive one another and do not move so independently due to Coulomb attraction (Brus, 1984). The e-h+ pair may be observed as an Hydrogen-like species called exciton and the distance between them is called the exciton Bohr radius (aB). When the three dimensions of the semiconductor material are reduced to few nanometers and the particles become smaller than the Bohr radius, one can say that they are in quantum confinement regimen and in this situation these nanoparticles are named quantum dots (QDs). For example, the exciton Bohr radius of CdS and CdSe bulk materials presents a size of aB = 3 to 5 nm.
Limited Liability and the Organization of Legal Services

Limited Liability and the Organization of Legal Services John A. Romley RAND Corporation romley@rand.org Eric Talley Boalt Hall School of Law RAND Corporation etalley@law.berkeley. edu January 12, 2007 Abstract Abstract During the 1990s, almost all states introduced business forms for law …rms that limited owners’liability. We develop a principal-agent model in which relatively large …rms pro…t from decreased liability, as clients elicit attorney e¤ort through increased compensation. Our model also implies that smaller …rms may grow after reorganizing in order to gain leverage over clients; larger …rms may shrink to ensure that clients remain willing to pay for e¤ort. We then test our model against a national panel data set of practicing attorneys at two points in time. We …nd that the data is consistent with our predictions in many (but not all) respects. Revised Draft: First Draft – September 2004. Please do not quote or cite without permission. Nishal Ramphal and Bogdan Savych provided excellent research assistance. Thanks to Scott Altman, Ronen Avraham, Scott Baker, Ted Eisenberg, Steve Garber, Michael Greenberg, Bob Hillman, Greg Keating, Dan Klerman, Ed McCa¤ery, Tom Miles, Larry Ribstein, Larry Simon, Kathy Spier and seminar participants at USC, Cornell and Northwestern for helpful discussions. All errors are ours. The …nancial support of the Kau¤man-RAND Center for the Study of Small Business and Regulation is gratefully acknowledged.
Co-labeling Using In Situ PCR

In situ amplification permits the histological localization of low-copy DNA and RNA targets. However, in many instances it would be useful to know the specific phenotype of the target-containing cell or to ascertain the distribution of a different nucleic acid sequence in the same tissue section. This review describes a methodology that allows co-in situ localization of two nucleic acid targets or a DNA/RNA sequence and a protein in paraffin-embedded, formalin-fixed tissue. The key variable for detection of low-copy RNA targets by RT in situ PCR is optimal protease digestion to permit cDNA target-specific incorporation of the reporter nucleotide. This is achieved via inactivation of nonspecific DNA synthesis by overnight D Nase digestion. The key variable for immunohistochemical localization of proteins is to determine the effect of protease digestion on the antigen-based signal intensity. Background for DNA targets by in situ hybridization or, for targets present in 1–10 copies per cell, PCR ISH is dependent primarily on probe concentration and the stringency of the post-hybridization wash. Radioactive 3H-labeled nucleotides permit an excellent distinction with colorimetric signals for co-localization, although two distinct chromogens can in many instances allow successful localization of two different targets.
Mixture designs in the optimisation of PLGA nanoparticles: influence of organic phase composition on β-aescin encapsulation

The objective of this study was to enhance the encapsulation of the antileishmanial saponin aescin in poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs). We prepared the NPs by the O/W and W/O/W combined emulsification solvent evaporation/salting-out technique and investigated the influence of organic phase composition on the NPs’ size, zeta potential and entrapment efficiency (EE%) using mixture designs. The obtained NPs were monodispersed with Zave<300 nm and exhibited negative zeta potentials. For the single emulsion, the co-solvent concentration was shown to be the primary determinant of drug entrapment. The EE% increased from 14% to 22% by decreasing the amount of DMSO from 80% to 25% (v/v) in the organic polymer solution. For the double emulsion, EE% was 22% on average and independent of the organic phase composition. The double-emulsion technique did not enhance the aescin encapsulation as expected due to its amphiphilic nature. The optimised aescin-loaded NPs meet the requirements for further in vitro activity tests.
A novel procedure for imaging acute coronary syndrome lesions using frequency-domain optical coherence tomography.

Description Next-generation OCT (frequency-domain optical coherence tomography, FD-OCT) facilitates high-speed pullbacks during image acquisition without necessitating transient balloon occlusion of the coronary artery1-3. However, a more robust catheter is necessary to facilitate highspeed pullbacks during FD-OCT. The profile diameter of the FD-OCT catheter is larger than that of the previous generation time-domain OCT (TD-OCT) imaging wire. A larger FD-OCT catheter could occlude severely stenotic lesions, causing insufficient distal contrast flushing. Subsequently, this causes insufficient blood clearance, resulting in poor OCT imaging. We investigated visualisation challenges of FD-OCT in the presence of severely stenotic lesions in an ex vivo model and developed a new procedure to obtain clear images using FD-OCT (Figure 1 and Figure 2).
A simple and efficient cDNA library subtraction procedure: isolation of human retina-specific cDNA clones.

The characterization of several recently isolated genes encoding components of the photo-transduction cascade has provided candidate genes for human and mouse retinal degeneration disorders (1). We have used a biotin-based subtraction procedure (see figure) to enrich human adult retina cDNA library for specific clones. The directional cDNA libraries from the human adult retina and JY lymphoblastoid cell line were constructed in Charon BS (-) vector (2) as described (3), and were then transferred to plasmid BS (-) (2). The plasmid retina cDNA library was used to generate single stranded (ss) circular DNA with helper phage R408 (Stratagene protocol). The double stranded plasmid DNA from JY cDNA library was used to synthesize biotinylated run-off transcripts with Bio-l 1-UTP (Enzo Biochem). Since the two cDNA libraries have directional cDNA inserts, T3 RNA polymerase would generate JY biotinylated RNA that is complementary to the orientation of cDNAs in retina ss DNA species. Typically, 0.2-1 ,ug of ss DNA from retina library (corresponding to about 2xi05-106 amp-resistant colonies) was annealed to 20-40 ytg of biotinylated RNA from JY library in a sealed capillary at 65°C for 16 hr. The reaction contained 0.4-0.5 M sodium phosphate pH 7.2, 10 mM EDTA
On Trajectory Planning, Backstepping Controller Design and Sliding Modes in Active Front-Ends

A flatness-based online trajectory planning algorithm for two-level voltage source converters is presented allowing for transitions in finite time. For trajectory tracking, two controllers are derived using a backstepping approach. One of them is a sliding mode controller. A method for decoupling the impact of the switching actions on the sliding surfaces is presented. The flatness of the system is used also for the prediction of the switching frequency. The main results are verified experimentally.
The role of endothelial cells and their progenitors in intimal hyperplasia

Intimal hyperplasia leading to restenosis is the major process that limits the success of cardiovascular intervention. The emergence of vascular progenitor cells and, in particular, endothelial progenitor cells has led to great interest in their potential therapeutic value in preventing intimal hyperplasia. We review the mechanism of intimal hyperplasia and highlight the important attenuating role played by a functional endothelium. The role of endothelial progenitor cells in maintaining endothelial function is reviewed and we describe how reduced progenitor cell number and function and reduced endothelial function lead to an increased risk of intimal hyperplasia. We review other potential sources of endothelial cells, including monocytes, mesenchymal stem cells and tissue resident stem cells. Endothelial progenitor cells have been used in clinical trials to reduce the risk of restenosis with varied success. Progenitor cells have huge therapeutic potential to prevent intimal hyperplasia but a more detailed understanding of vascular progenitor cell biology is necessary before further clinical trials are commenced.
Mitral Valve Prolapse Syndrome Health Concerns, Symptoms, and Treatments

Individuals with mitral valve prolapse syndrome (MVPS) symptoms seek help in emergency rooms, urgent care centers, and primary care offices. Little is known about the profile and effects of these symptoms on individuals’ role status and use of health care services. A descriptive cross-sectional design was used to develop a profile of health concerns, symptoms, and treatments and to examine the relationships of symptoms to functional and role status and use of health care services for MVPS patients. A sample of 837 persons completed an MVPS symptom checklist and survey, Mishel Uncertainty Illness Scale, Short Form Health Survey, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Medical Outcomes Study Social Support, and Food Frequency Questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, multiple-regression analysis, and structural equation modeling were used to answer the research questions. Findings suggest that older age, lack of social support, higher anxiety, and lack of regular exercise predict MVPS symptoms. There was limited support for the overall theoretical model.
Living Polymerization of Propylene with ansa-Dimethylsilylene(fluorenyl)(cumylamido) Titanium Complexes

A series of ansa-silylene(fluorenyl)(amido) titanium complexes (1a–1c, 2a, and 2b) bearing various substituents on the amido and fluorenyl ligands are synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, 1H NMR, and single crystal X-ray analysis. The coordination mode of the fluorenyl ligand to the titanium metal is η3 manner in each complex. The propylene polymerization is conducted with these complexes at 0 and 25 °C in a semi batch-type method, respectively. The catalytic activity of 1a–1c bearing cumyl-amido ligand is much higher than that of 2a and 2b bearing naphthyl group in amido ligand. High molecular weight polypropylenes are obtained with narrow molecular weight distribution, suggesting a living nature of these catalytic systems at 0 °C. The polymers produced are statistically atactic, regardless of the structure of the complex and the polymerization temperature.
Chiral stability of an extemporaneously prepared clopidogrel bisulfate oral suspension.

OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to evaluate the chiral stability of clopidogrel bisulfate in an extemporaneously compounded oral suspension for a period of 60 days. METHODS A 5 mg/mL oral suspension of clopidogrel bisulfate was prepared from commercially available Plavix tablets. The clopidogrel suspension was then evenly divided between two light-resistant prescription bottles and stored either under refrigeration (4°C) or at room temperature (25°C). Samples were drawn from the stored suspensions immediately after preparation and on days 7, 14, 28, and 60. Samples were subsequently analyzed at each time point by high-performance liquid chromatography using a reversed-phase column, with chemical stability defined as the retention of at least 90% of the initial intact clopidogrel concentration measured. To determine the chiral stability of the suspension, samples were also analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography using a chiral column to investigate possible enantiomeric inversion. Chiral stability was defined as the retention of at least 90% of the initial concentration of the suspension as the S-enantiomer, the active moiety of Plavix. RESULTS Regardless of storage conditions, the oral suspension of clopidogrel retained at least 98% of the active S-enantiomer for 60 days after preparation. Compared with the clopidogrel suspension stored in the refrigerator, more chiral inversion was noted in the clopidogrel suspension stored at room temperature. CONCLUSIONS Our investigation of chiral stability indicates that a 5 mg/mL clopidogrel oral suspension stored under refrigeration and at room temperature maintains chiral stability as the active S-enantiomer.
Instant Laser Wavelength Measurement Based on Dual Fabry–Pérot Etalons

An all-fiber-instant laser wavelength measurement scheme based on dual etalons and an optical linear filter is proposed and demonstrated. The linear filter is utilized for the coarse measurement, while the Fabry–Pérot etalons are employed for the fine measurement. By slightly tilting the refractive angle of one etalon, its phase and waveform can be tuned. Thus, the waveforms of two etalons can compensate for each other in measurements, covering the whole range without any dead zone. Various wavelength determination criteria are also discussed for different etalon phase offsets. Finally, a wavelength resolution of 1.38 pm is achieved within the whole <inline-formula> <tex-math notation="LaTeX">$C$ </tex-math></inline-formula>-band (1520–1570 nm). The system exhibits many advantages, such as compact structure, low cost, and fast response.
Ultrahigh-resolution electron energy loss spectroscopy via digital signal processing techniques.

The methodology underlying a novel spectral analysis is presented for inelastic electron scattering from solids. Implementation of the method involves Fourier transformation of the measured spectrum and deconvolution in the Fourier domain, spectral estimation using the minimum entropy method, and lineshape analysis using Gaussian and Lorentzian functions, all performed in the Fourier domain. The utility of the method is demonstrated for the case of vibrationally inelastic electron scattering from CO adsorbed on Ru(001)
Bioethanol: Indonesian Macro-Algae as a Renewable Feedstock for Liquid Fuel

This experimental study aims at studying the conversion of macro-algae into bioethanol under several steps of procedure: preparation, pre-treatment, fermentation, and distillation. The main objective of this work was to investigate the role of buffer’s type as a stabiliser of pH level and fermentation time on the yield of ethanol. For this purpose, experiments were carried out on biomass macro-algae to de-couple the pre-treatment and fermentation processes from those associated with distillation process. β- glucosidase was used as cellulose decomposer during hydrolysis step and yeast was used during fermentation process. The species of macro-algae utilised as energy feedstock was Ulva lactuca and it was harvested from southern coast of Central of Java Island – Indonesia. Experiments were conducted in a simple fermenter over a different buffer: citrate buffer and acetic buffer, and over a range of fermentation times between 5 to 20 days. The ethanol production was found to be significantly affected by both variables. The optimum time of fermentation was 10 days with citrate buffer; result in 0.88458% of ethanol, and the ethanol content after distillation process was shown 0.985015%.
The Effect of FloSeal on Mucosal Healing after Endoscopic Sinus Surgery: A Comparison with Thrombin-Soaked Gelatin Foam

Background The optimal form of nasal packing after endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) still has not been established. Although wide variations exist among sinus surgeons, the goals are adequate hemostasis, rapid healing, and patient comfort. Preliminary studies indicated that FloSeal (FS), a novel absorbable hemostatic paste used as a nasal pack, was associated with minimal postoperative discomfort and effective hemostasis. This study was designed to evaluate the effects of this agent on mucosal healing in ESS. Methods Twenty consecutive patients underwent bilateral ESS. For each patient, one ethmoid cavity was randomized to receive FS and the other received thrombin-soaked gelatin foam. The extent of granulation tissue and adhesion formation was evaluated at 6–8 weeks after surgery. Results No significant differences were observed between the FS and the thrombin-soaked gelatin foam groups with respect to the preoperative Lund-Mackay score, extent of surgery performed, or need for additional nasal packing. However, the FS group showed clear trends toward increased granulation tissue (p = 0.007) and adhesion (p = 0.006) formation. Conclusion: Absorbable hemostatic agents are associated with a high degree of patient comfort and provide hemostasis comparable with traditional techniques. Different materials may induce differential patterns of mucosal healing, potentially affecting the ultimate result of ESS.
HIV-1 exploits CCR5 conformational heterogeneity to escape inhibition by chemokines

CC chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5) is a receptor for chemokines and the coreceptor for R5 HIV-1 entry into CD4+ T lymphocytes. Chemokines exert anti–HIV-1 activity in vitro, both by displacing the viral envelope glycoprotein gp120 from binding to CCR5 and by promoting CCR5 endocytosis, suggesting that they play a protective role in HIV infection. However, we showed here that different CCR5 conformations at the cell surface are differentially engaged by chemokines and gp120, making chemokines weaker inhibitors of HIV infection than would be expected from their binding affinity constants for CCR5. These distinct CCR5 conformations rely on CCR5 coupling to nucleotide-free G proteins (NFG proteins). Whereas native CCR5 chemokines bind with subnanomolar affinity to NFG protein-coupled CCR5, gp120/HIV-1 does not discriminate between NFG protein-coupled and uncoupled CCR5. Interestingly, the antiviral activity of chemokines is G protein independent, suggesting that “low-chemokine affinity” NFG protein-uncoupled conformations of CCR5 represent a portal for viral entry. Furthermore, chemokines are weak inducers of CCR5 endocytosis, as is revealed by EC50 values for chemokine-mediated endocytosis reflecting their low-affinity constant value for NFG protein-uncoupled CCR5. Abolishing CCR5 interaction with NFG proteins eliminates high-affinity binding of CCR5 chemokines but preserves receptor endocytosis, indicating that chemokines preferentially endocytose low-affinity receptors. Finally, we evidenced that chemokine analogs achieve highly potent HIV-1 inhibition due to high-affinity interactions with internalizing and/or gp120-binding receptors. These data are consistent with HIV-1 evading chemokine inhibition by exploiting CCR5 conformational heterogeneity, shed light into the inhibitory mechanisms of anti–HIV-1 chemokine analogs, and provide insights for the development of unique anti–HIV molecules.