cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Coping during pregnancy: a systematic review and recommendations

Extensive evidence documents that prenatal maternal stress predicts a variety of adverse physical and psychological health outcomes for the mother and baby. However, the importance of the ways that women cope with stress during pregnancy is less clear. We conducted a systematic review of the English-language literature on coping behaviours and coping styles in pregnancy using PsycInfo and PubMed to identify 45 cross-sectional and longitudinal studies involving 16,060 participants published between January 1990 and June 2012. Although results were often inconsistent across studies, the literature provides some evidence that avoidant coping behaviours or styles and poor coping skills in general are associated with postpartum depression, preterm birth and infant development. Variability in study methods including differences in sample characteristics, timing of assessments, outcome variables and measures of coping styles or behaviours may explain the lack of consistent associations. To advance the scientific study of coping in pregnancy, we call attention to the need for a priori hypotheses and greater use of pregnancy-specific, daily process, and skills-based approaches. There is promise in continuing this area of research, particularly in the possible translation of consistent findings to effective interventions, but only if the conceptual basis and methodological quality of research improve.
Purinergic Receptor Stimulation Reduces Cytotoxic Edema and Brain Infarcts in Mouse Induced by Photothrombosis by Energizing Glial Mitochondria

Treatments to improve the neurological outcome of edema and cerebral ischemic stroke are severely limited. Here, we present the first in vivo single cell images of cortical mouse astrocytes documenting the impact of single vessel photothrombosis on cytotoxic edema and cerebral infarcts. The volume of astrocytes expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP) increased by over 600% within 3 hours of ischemia. The subsequent growth of cerebral infarcts was easily followed as the loss of GFP fluorescence as astrocytes lysed. Cytotoxic edema and the magnitude of ischemic lesions were significantly reduced by treatment with the purinergic ligand 2-methylthioladenosine 5′ diphosphate (2-MeSADP), an agonist with high specificity for the purinergic receptor type 1 isoform (P2Y1R). At 24 hours, cytotoxic edema in astrocytes was still apparent at the penumbra and preceded the cell lysis that defined the infarct. Delayed 2MeSADP treatment, 24 hours after the initial thrombosis, also significantly reduced cytotoxic edema and the continued growth of the brain infarction. Pharmacological and genetic evidence are presented indicating that 2MeSADP protection is mediated by enhanced astrocyte mitochondrial metabolism via increased inositol trisphosphate (IP3)-dependent Ca2+ release. We suggest that mitochondria play a critical role in astrocyte energy metabolism in the penumbra of ischemic lesions, where low ATP levels are widely accepted to be responsible for cytotoxic edema. Enhancement of this energy source could have similar protective benefits for a wide range of brain injuries.
Causal anomalies and the completeness of quantum theory

Hans Reichenbach’s Philosophic Foundations of Quantum Mechanics (1944) has attracted the attention of philosophers because of its proposal for the interpretation of the theory in terms of a non-standard, threevalued logic.1 Such an interpretation is, as Reichenbach calls it, a ‘restrictive’ one; that is, it leaves certain propositions formulable in the language of the theory without standard truth conditions.2 These propositions can be neither verified nor falsified, and the facts they express thus neither predicted nor explained by the theory. A typical such proposition assigns a determinate position and momentum to a particle at some instant. Clearly, embracing such an interpretation involves renouncing a spacetime description of the world, and is thus not to be entered into lightly.
An explication of emergence

Philosophical debates about emergence are often marred by equivocation and lack of common ground, and dialogue about emergence between scientists and philosophers can be equally difficult. In this paper I offer a unified explication of emergence and argue that this explication can cut through much of the confusion evident in discussions of emergence. I defend an explication of the concept of emergence as the unavailability of a certain kind of scientific explanation for an observer or observers.
Monitoring machining processes using multi-sensor readings fused by artificial neural network

Abstract This paper proposes a tool wear model based on Artificial Neural Network which is used as Pattern Associator. As such, the network is trained to associate an input vector, consists of readings of several different sensors, with an output vector, consists of actual tool wear measurements, by a training process during which both vectors are presented to the network. During operation, the network is fed with the sensors' readings, it fuses this data and provides an estimate value for the wear according to the “model” established during the training. The estimation of tool wear obtained by this method is by far more accurate than other methods which use the same sensory inputs. In addition, a new process monitoring scheme by which Artificial Neural Network is used for: 1) Extract knowledge from an experienced operator; 2) Fuse sensory input; and 3) Accordingly monitor the process by varying process parameters, is presented.
PKCβ co-localizes with the dopamine transporter in mesencephalic neurons

The dopamine transporter (DAT) is a critical regulator of dopaminergic neurotransmission. Research in both rat striatum and heterologous cells suggests that protein kinase C beta (PKCβ) is important for proper trafficking of DAT. However, a critical gap that is missing from the literature is the localization of PKCβ to mesencephalic dopaminergic neurons. In this study we examined the co-localization of DAT, which serves to identify dopaminergic neurons, and PKCβ in mesencephalic dopaminergic cells. Using immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy, we demonstrated co-localization of DAT and PKCβ in primary cultures of mesencephalic neurons and in dopamine neurons in rat substantia nigra and ventral tegmental area. PKCβ was not specific for dopamine neurons in the two brain regions. This is the first demonstration of co-localization of PKCβ and DAT in mesencephalic neurons. The co-localization of PKCβ with DAT in mesencephalic neurons corroborates our previous studies demonstrating a role for PKCβ in DAT function.
Support capacity and roof behaviour at longwall faces with shield supports

Field investigations on seven U.S. longwall coal faces were carried out to examine the behaviour and interaction of roof, floor and support on longwall faces equipped with hydraulic powered supports. The most important factor in determining face stability was found to be periodic weighting and an empirical design equation was developed for support capacity. The interaction of various elements in the face system is examined and discussed.
Endoscopic closure of persistent gastric leak and fistula following laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy

Introduction Conservative management for gastric leak and fistulae after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) often results in prolonged hospitalization as well as requirement of TPN or recurrent surgery (Casella et al., 2009) [1]. Endoscopically-placed stents are an additional non-invasive method, but are associated with the complication of stent migration in up to 50% of cases (Casella and co-workers, 2009) [1,4]. As other non-invasive means of treatment are absent, we believe this case demonstrates a new technique for multiple gastric leaks following LSG in patients without sepsis or peritonitis.
Metalloporphyrin Mixed-Valence π-Cation Radicals: Solution Stability and Properties

Solution equilibria and optical spectra of several metallooctaethylporphyrin π-cation radicals have been examined in methylene chloride solution. The several π-cation radical species, [M(OEP•)]Y (M = Cu, Ni, Zn, Pd, or VO; Y = ClO4- or SbCl6-), are found to dimerize to form [M(OEP•)]22+. These dimeric species are characterized by the appearance of a new, strongly concentration-dependent near-infrared absorption band. This band is found in the region of 900−960 nm for all compounds except for the vanadyl complex which absorbs farther to the red at 1375 nm. The equilibrium constants for the dimerization reaction (2[M(OEP•)]+ (KD) [M(OEP•)]22+) have been evaluated from multiple-wavelength, concentration-dependent absorption data. Equimolar solutions of these π-cation radicals and their analogous neutral M(OEP) derivatives react to form new binuclear species, [M(OEP•/2)]2+, in which the single radical electron is delocalized over both porphyrin rings. These new species, for which we suggest the term “mixed-va...
Spectrally Resolved Flash X Radiography Of Laser Accelerated Targets

The physics of the acceleration of planar foils to high velocities by laser-driven ablation is being studied for the inertial confinement fusion application. The motion and density of these foils was studied by spectrally resolved flash x radiography, using an imaging crystal spectrograph. These results will be compared to our earlier flash x-ray studies using pinhole camera imaging, which does not afford spectrally resolved images.
Regulatory T cells in experimental allergic encephalomyelitis. III. Comparison of disease resistance in Lewis and Fischer 344 rats.

Rats of the Fischer 344 (F344) strain are resistant to experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) induced by active immunization with guinea pig myelin basic protein (MBP) in complete Freund's adjuvant whereas Lewis (LEW) rats are susceptible even though both strains share the same I-A-like class II alleles of the MHC RT1.B locus. To determine factors that might contribute to this difference in disease susceptibility, we have compared in these two strains (1) the frequency of MBP-reactive T cells in the lymph nodes and spleens of MBP-immunized animals, (2) the dominant MBP epitopes recognized by responding T cells, (3) the ability of MBP-reactive T cells to enter the central nervous system (CNS), and (4) the frequency of CD8+ regulatory T cells (RTC) whose activity is functionally antagonistic to MBP-reactive T cells. The results indicate that MBP-reactive T cell numbers are similar in MBP-immunized F344 and LEW rats, they both recognize p68-88 as the dominant encephalitogenic epitope of MBP, and MBP-reactive T cells isolated from immunized rats and adoptively transferred to naive animals are similarly effective in penetrating the blood-brain barrier and entering the CNS, leading to pathogenesis in EAE. However, the frequency of RTC that functionally inhibit MBP-reactive T cells is greater in F344 rats.
The impact of spouse monitoring on target behavior and recorder satisfaction

The objectives of this study were (a) to determine the impact of a spouse monitoring procedure on the target's (husband's) behavior and the recorder (wife's) view of the marriage and (b) to assess the relationship between the target's positive behaviors and the recorder's marital satisfaction rating. In one condition, husbands were informed that their behavior was being observed, whereas in a comparison group, husbands were kept unaware of the observation procedure. In both conditions, wives kept daily recordings of (a) positive behaviors emitted by their husbands and (b) perceptions of their marital relationships. No differences were found in rates of husbands' behavior or in wives' perceptions of their marriages as a function of the awareness manipulation. Analyses examining the relationship between spouse behavior and daily satisfaction ratings indicated a statistically reliable association, although the majority of variance in satisfaction ratings was attributable to unique subject variables.
The influence of lay-up and thickness on composite impact damage and compression strength

The effects of composite stacking sequence, thickness, and percentage of zero-degree plies on the size, shape, and distribution of delamination through the laminate thickness and on residual compression strength following impact were studied. Graphite/epoxy laminates were impacted with an 0.5 inch diameter aluminum sphere at a specific low or high velocity. Impact damage was measured nondestructively by ultrasonic C-scans and X-radiography and destructively by the deply technique, and compression strength tests were performed. It was found that differences in compression failure strain due to stacking sequence were small, while laminates with very low percentages of zero-degree plies had similar failure loads but higher failure strains than laminates with higher percentages of zero-degree plies. Failure strain did not correlate with planar impact damage area, and delaminations in impact regions were associated with matrix cracking.
An experimental and numerical study on the effect of the wall in a thermocline-type cylindrical enclosure—II Numerical model

Abstract Natural convection in cylindrical enclosures finds many applications in solor energy problems. An integral method to solve these internal flow problems is presented. The cases of a thermocline-type enclosure and a cylindrical enclosure subject to constant elevated wall temperatures are solved as examples. Correlations of the Nusselt number for various Rayleigh numbers and wall materials are presented for the laminar regime. The mixing rate of the fluid is estimated for various boundary conditions. Results computed with this method are in good agreement with the finite difference solution and the experimental data presented in Part I.
Recrystallization characteristics of oxide dispersion strengthened nickel-base alloys

Electron microscopy was employed to study the process of recrystallization in two oxide dispersion strengthened (ODS) mechanically alloyed nickel-base alloys, MA 754 and MA 6000E. MA 754 contained both fine, uniformly dispersed particles and coarser oxides aligned along the working direction. Hot rolled MA 754 had a grain size of 0.5 microns and high dislocation densities. After partial primary recrystallization, the fine grains transformed to large elongated grains via secondary (or abnormal) grain growth. Extruded and rolled MA 6000E contained equiaxed grains of 0.2 micron diameter. Primary recrystallization occurring during working eliminated virtually all dislocations. Conversion from fine to coarse grains was triggered by gamma prime dissolution; this was also a process of secondary or abnormal grain growth. Comparisons were made to conventional and oxide dispersion strengthened nickel-base alloys.
Developing and maintaining a website for teaching and learning about intelligence

Abstract This article describes the development of the website Human Intelligence: Historical Influences, Current Controversies, Teaching Resources ( http://www.intelltheory.com/ ). Organized historically, the site is a “living text” that can be used flexibly as a pedagogical resource in stand-alone courses focusing on intelligence, or as a supplemental resource in undergraduate and graduate-level psychology, education, and philosophy courses covering intelligence. Site resources include: an interactive map demonstrating the chains of influence among theorists and researchers, biographical profiles of prominent individuals who have contributed to the development of intelligence theory and testing, in-depth articles exploring important controversies related to intelligence, and sample course syllabi. Site usage data suggest that intelligence is being taught in U.S. high schools and universities in several countries around the world.
Different pathways of iodothyronine 5'-deiodination in rat cerebral cortex.

Abstract Microsomal fractions of rat cerebral cortex catalyze the 5′-deiodination of 3,3′,5′-triiodothyronine (rT 3 ) in the presence of thiols such as dithiothreitol. Evidence is presented that two different enzymatic pathways are involved. One of these has a low apparent K m (2.7 nM) for rT 3 , is inhibited by nanomolar concentrations of thyroxine (T 4 ), but not by up to 1 mM 6-propyl-2-thiouracil (PTU). The other pathway has a high apparent K m (31 nM) for rT 3 , is inhibited by PTU, but not by 4 . The relative proportion of rT 3 5′-deiodination via either pathway depends on thyroid status, with increased contributions from the low-K m system especially in short-term hypothyroidism.
Scleritis-associated Uveitis

Purpose: Anterior uveitis may accompany scleritis. This study was undertaken to analyze the incidence, characteristics, and meaning of uveitis in the course of scleritis. Methods: Patient characteristics, scleritis type, ocular complications, and specific systemic diseases were evaluated in patients with scleritis-associated uveitis; comparisons were made between patients with scleritis-associated uveitis and patients with scleritis without uveitis. Results: Seventy three (42%) of 172 patients with scleritis had anterior uveitis. Scleritis-associated uveitis ranged from mild to moderate intensity and always was related to the presence of active scleritis. Patients with scleritis-associated uveitis had more necrotizing scleritis (37%, P = 0.0001), decrease in vision (49%, P = 0.0046), peripheral ulcerative keratitis (22%, P = 0.0095), and glaucoma (19%, P = 0.0313) than did patients with scleritis without uveitis. Patients with scleritis-associated uveitis did not have any specific associated systemic disease more often than did patients with scleritis without uveitis. Conclusion: Extension of scleral inflammation to the anterior uveal tract is a consequence of a more severe disease with possible ocular complications that may cause progressive visual loss. The occurrence of anterior uveitis in the course of scleritis entails a poor ocular prognosis. The authors believe, therefore, that the anterior uveal tract should be evaluated at every follow-up visit of a patient with scleritis, so that emergence of this important prognostic condition (anterior uveitis) may be detected promptly and systemic therapy instituted appropriately.
Bank capital: the case against Basel

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to focus on the “Basel Illusion”, the belief that a model-driven quantitative approach to capital adequacy can lead to a more robust and shock-proof system. The author analyzes the Basel framework and its role as a major source of systemic risk. Furthermore, the Basel framework is unlikely to enhance the safety of the financial system and prevent future crises. As such, Basel should be scrapped and regulators should revert to a simple tangible common equity (TCE) leverage rule. Design/methodology/approach – The paper aims to review the extensive existing literature and analytic approach to the problem, trying to answer the question: why Basel? The paper looks at the Basel methodology of calculating risk-weighed assets. Findings – The paper looks at the basic reasons underlying the Basel failure: complexity, variations in measurement of risk-weighed assets across banking institutions, ability to game the system and amplification of systemic risk. The research conclude...
X-ray diffraction and equation of state of solid neon to 110 GPa

Solid neon was compressed under static conditions at 300 K to pressures in the 100 GPa (megabar) range using diamond-anvil cell techniques. The crystal structure and /ital P/-/ital V/ equation of state were determined by energy-dispersive x-ray diffraction with microcollimated synchrotron radiation. Pressures were determined from ruby fluorescence spectra and from x-ray diffraction of tungsten powder contained within the sample. Solid neon remains an insulator with the fcc structure to the maximum pressure of 110 GPa at 300 K, where the compression /ital V///ital V//sub 0/ is 0.28. The 300-K /ital P/-/ital V/ isotherm measured at high pressure is in excellent agreement with the results of electronic structure calculations but is incorrectly described by pure pair potentials recently developed for neon. These results indicate that there is a significant softening of the material by many-body interactions at high pressures. Finally, the measurements of ruby fluorescence and tungsten x-ray diffraction in the neon medium obtained in this study provide an extension of the quasihydrostatic ruby pressure scale above 100 GPa.
Pediatrics: Uncontrolled hypertension in children on hemodialysis

Despite the epidemic of cardiovascular disease among patients with end-stage renal disease, recent findings demonstrate that the pediatric community needs to make greater efforts to control the known modifiable risk factors.
Culture-Based Method with Performance Comparable to That of PCR-Based Methods for Detection of Group B Streptococcus in Screening Samples from Pregnant Women

We compared five approaches for group B streptococcus (GBS) detection: three culture-based methods and two methods using broth-enhanced real-time PCR. Carrot broth-enhanced subculture to GBS Detect (Hardy Diagnostics, Santa Maria, CA) exhibited sensitivity and specificity comparable to carrot broth- and LIM broth-enhanced real-time PCRs.
Nucleotide sequence of the Erwinia chrysanthemi NCPPB 1066 L-asparaginase gene.

Abstract The complete nucleotide sequence of the Erwinia chrysanthemi NCPPB 1066 gene coding for the chemotherapeutic enzyme l -asparaginase has been determined. The structural gene consists of an open reading frame commencing with an ATG start codon of 1044 bp followed by a TGA stop codon. Confirmation of the nucleotide sequence was obtained by comparing the predicted amino acid (aa) sequence with that derived by N-terminal aa sequencing of the purified protein. The gene has been shown to code for a 21-aa signal peptide at its N terminus which closely resembles the signal peptides of other secreted proteins. In common with highly expressed Escherichia coli genes, little use is made of modulator codons. The predicted aa sequence of the enzyme exhibits 46% identity with the determined primary sequence of the E. coli l -asparaginase, although the predicted secondary structure of both proteins indicates more extensive homology. Downstream of the TGA stop codon is a G + C-rich region of dyad symmetry ( Δ G = −25.4 kcal) characteristic of E. coli Rhoindependent transcription terminators. Upstream of the structural gene there are no sequences which bear a strong resemblance to the consensus −35 and −10 regions of E. coli promoters. A sequence is present (CTGGCTCTCCTCTTGAT), however, which exhibits strong homology to the nif promoter consensus sequence (CTGGCACN 5 TTGCA). Upstream of this region is a sequence which strongly resembles the consensus sequence for promoter regions which are subject to catabolite repression.
Pre-plant incorporation of nitrogen fertilizer to spring- and fall-planted bareroot Scotch pine☆

Abstract Nitrogen (56, 112 or 224 kg N ha −1 ) was applied as ammonium nitrate or urea formaldehyde before planting Pinus sylvestris seedlings in the fall and spring. Controls received no fertilization. Survival and growth were measured. There were significant effects of N fertilization on survival. Higher levels of N resulted in lower survival without increased growth. Slow-release N allowed increased rates to be utilized without reducing survival, but there was no benefit in the higher N rates in terms of growth.
A 3Ф-3Ф quasi Z-source matrix converter for residential wind energy systems

When compared to the Z-source inverter, the quasi Z-source inverter offers several advantages, including lower component ratings, reduced source stress and switch count, and simpler control strategies. In this study, the concept of a quasi Z-source network is extended on a 3Ф-3Ф indirect matrix converter. The converter, destined for residential wind energy systems, is based on the ultra-sparse matrix topology characterized by the minimum number of semiconductor switches. The quasi Z-source network is placed between the three-switch input rectifier stage and the output six-switch inverter stage.
Weak-ferromagnetism of quasi two-dimensional manganese stearate

Abstract It is known that the salts of fatty acids (soaps) may have layered structures with inter-layer spacings of 50 A or more. If the metal ion is from the transition or rare-earth groups, there is the possibility of forming interesting quasi two-dimensional magnetic materials. This is verified by measurements on manganese stearate, which we find undergoes a transition to weak-ferromagnetic order at about 5°K.
Developmental diseases and the hypothetical Master Development Program

Small deletions and duplications frequently occur in the pericentromeric region of chromosomes and many of these are associated with developmental abnormalities. These developmental syndromes are conventionally attributed to abnormal expression of protein-coding genes in the affected region. A hypothesis has recently been published concerning a Master Development Program based on noncoding transcripts from these regions (Parris GE. A hypothetical Master Development Program for multi-cellular organisms: Ontogeny and phylogeny. Biosci Hypotheses 2009;2:3-12.). This paper summarizes and expands the recently published hypothesis to include it application to developmental diseases. The author proposes that development of multi-cellular organisms is guided by a Master Development Program (MDP) located primarily in the pericentromeric heterochromatin. The MDP is believed to consist of a series of Generation-Specific Control Keys (GSCK) transcribed in sequence by Ikaros family transcription factors unless the GSCKs are suppressed by Sall1-family or Dnmt3b-family proteins. The MDP is proposed to increment with each cell cycle to the next GSCK resulting in development of the clone. A clone may be programmed to split into two clones as necessary through a two-cycle mitosis processes. The transcripts of the GSCKs presumably yield noncoding nuclear messenger RNAs (nmRNAs, 8-30 nt units) that act directly (e.g., as primers for RNA polymerase II) and indirectly to regulate HOX and other high-level transcription factor and developmental genes. As envisioned, the MDP would evolve by terminal addition of new GSCKs. The new GSCKs are produced by evolutionary consolidation of retro-transcripts into pyknons that collect and evolve at the end of the pericentromeric heterochromatin and are eventually incorporated into the MDP. The retro-transcripts are though to be produced during episodic retrovirus epidemics and account for punctuated equilibrium in species evolution.
Absorption coefficients of CFC-11 and CFC-12 needed for atmospheric remote sensing and global warming studies

Spectral absorption coefficients k(v) in the atmospheric window are reported for CFC-11 and CFC-12. Data obtained with a grating spectrometer are compared with NCAR cross sections and measurements of k(v) made with a tunable diode laser spectrometer at various temperature-pressure combinations representing tangent heights or layers in the atmosphere are presented. The results are suitable for atmospheric remote sensing and global warming studies.
An intervention for educating child care personnel on speech and language milestones

This study examined the impact of an educational intervention on knowledge of speech‐language development among child care personnel. Sixty‐ six child care employees from ten randomly selected day care centres were randomly assigned to either an intervention group or a control group. All subjects were initially given a 30 item test assessing their knowledge of speech and language development, with no expectation of retesting. The test contained twenty language development items and ten speech sound acquisition items. An educational handout containing information about basic speech and language development milestones was provided to the intervention group, followed by retesting of both groups at six weeks. Results showed that the intervention group scored significantly higher than the control group at post‐test on the language portion only. It appears that the handout was a simple and inexpensive method to moderately increase familiarity with language development.
Queering Data Collection: Using the Life History Calendar Method With Sexual-Minority Youth

ABSTRACT A challenge for research with sexual-minority youth is to capture their unique stories in a way that heightens understanding of lived experience and promotes the development of culturally relevant programs and policies tailored for this population. One data collection approach that may be particularly useful for research with sexual-minority youth is the life history calendar (LHC) method. The LHC provides a visual, calendar-based assessment of life events and behaviors anchored by contextual cues to enhance retrospective recall. The purpose of this article is to examine the utility of the LHC method with sexual-minority youth and its potential to address three methodological and conceptual challenges: developmental complexity, shifting and evolving identities, and timing. The LHC method is illustrated using three studies conducted by the author as case examples. Findings suggest that the LHC offers several potential benefits for research with sexual-minority youth including its adaptable and fle...
Fentanyl, but not haloperidol, entrains persisting circadian activity episodes when administered at 24- and 31-h intervals

Abstract Administration of several drugs of abuse on a 24-h schedule has been shown to entrain both pre-drug (anticipatory) and post-drug (evoked) circadian activity episodes that persist for several days when the drug is withheld. The present study tested the entrainment effects of fentanyl, an opioid agonist with a noted abuse liability, and haloperidol, an anti-psychotic dopamine antagonist without apparent abuse liability. Adult female Sprague–Dawley rats housed under constant light in cages with attached running wheels received repeated low, medium, or high doses of either fentanyl or haloperidol on a 24-h administration schedule followed by a 31-h schedule (Experiment 1) or solely on a 31-h schedule (Experiment 2). The results showed that all three doses of fentanyl entrained both pre-drug and post-drug episodes of wheel running when administered every 24 h, and the combined pre- and post-fentanyl activity episodes persisted for at least 3 days when the drug was withheld during test days. On the 31-h schedule, fentanyl produced an “ensuing” activity episode approximately 24 h post-administration, but failed to produce an anticipatory episode 29–31 h post-administration. In contrast, haloperidol injections failed to produce both pre-drug episodes on the 24-h schedule and circadian ensuing episodes on the 31-h schedule, and post-haloperidol suppression of activity appeared to mask the free-running activity rhythm. Taken together, these results provide additional evidence that drugs of abuse share a common ability to entrain circadian activity episodes.
The intercalation of non-graphitic carbonaceous materials

Abstract In this paper, issues surrounding the intercalation of carbonaceous materials that are not graphite are discussed. Previous literature suggests that the reaction of intercalating reagents, such as potassium and bromine, with coals and cokes, may be more complex than with graphite. When reagents containing heavy atoms, such as antimony, are used, care is required in interpreting the X-ray diffraction, because interferences arising from carbon structures can be masked. This complexity is illustrated with diffraction data on simple organic liquids.
Mining Social Media Data for Understanding Students' Learning Experiences

Students' informal conversations on social media (e.g., Twitter, Facebook) shed light into their educational experiences-opinions, feelings, and concerns about the learning process. Data from such uninstrumented environments can provide valuable knowledge to inform student learning. Analyzing such data, however, can be challenging. The complexity of students' experiences reflected from social media content requires human interpretation. However, the growing scale of data demands automatic data analysis techniques. In this paper, we developed a workflow to integrate both qualitative analysis and large-scale data mining techniques. We focused on engineering students' Twitter posts to understand issues and problems in their educational experiences. We first conducted a qualitative analysis on samples taken from about 25,000 tweets related to engineering students' college life. We found engineering students encounter problems such as heavy study load, lack of social engagement, and sleep deprivation. Based on these results, we implemented a multi-label classification algorithm to classify tweets reflecting students' problems. We then used the algorithm to train a detector of student problems from about 35,000 tweets streamed at the geo-location of Purdue University. This work, for the first time, presents a methodology and results that show how informal social media data can provide insights into students' experiences.
The Decomposition of the Corporate Body: What Kant Cannot Contribute to Business Ethics

Kant is gaining popularity in business ethics because the categorical imperative rules out actions such as deceptive advertising and exploitative working conditions, both of which treat people merely as means to an end. However, those who apply Kant in this way often hold businesses themselves morally accountable, and this conception of collective responsibility contradicts the kind of moral agency that underlies Kant’s ethics. A business has neither inclinations nor the capacity to reason, so it lacks the conditions necessary for constraint by the moral law. Instead, corporate policies ought to be understood as analogous to legal constraints. They may encourage or discourage certain actions, but they cannot determine a person’s maxim – which for Kant is the focus of moral judgment. Because there is no collective intention apart from any intentions of the individual agents who act as members of the corporation, an organization itself has no moral obligations. This poses a dilemma: either apply the categorical imperative to the actions of particular businesspeople and surrender the notion of collective responsibility, or apply a different moral theory to the actions of businesses themselves. Given the diffusion of responsibility in a bureaucracy, the explanatory usefulness of collective responsibility may force business ethicists to abandon Kant’s moral philosophy.
Expanding small-molecule functional metagenomics through parallel screening of broad-host-range cosmid environmental DNA libraries in diverse proteobacteria

The small-molecule biosynthetic diversity encoded within the genomes of uncultured bacteria is an attractive target for the discovery of natural products using functional metagenomics. Phenotypes commonly associated with the production of small molecules, such as antibiosis, altered pigmentation, or altered colony morphology, are easily identified from screens of arrayed metagenomic library clones. However, functional metagenomic screening methods are limited by their intrinsic dependence on a heterologous expression host. Toward the goal of increasing the small-molecule biosynthetic diversity found in functional metagenomic studies, we report the phenotypic screening of broad-host-range environmental DNA libraries in six different proteobacteria: Agrobacterium tumefaciens, Burkholderia graminis, Caulobacter vibrioides, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas putida, and Ralstonia metallidurans. Clone-specific small molecules found in culture broth extracts from pigmented and antibacterially active clones, as well as the genetic elements responsible for the biosynthesis of these metabolites, are described. The host strains used in this investigation provided access to unique sets of clones showing minimal overlap, thus demonstrating the potential advantage conferred on functional metagenomics through the use of multiple diverse host species.
Cost-variability-sensitive preventive maintenance considering management risk

Traditional preventive maintenance policies, such as age replacement, periodic replacement under minimal repair, and replacement policy N, are all studied based on the expected cost criteria without considering the management risk due to the cost variability. As a result, these policies could be significantly beyond the anticipated maintenance budget allocation and lead to crisis. In order to solve this problem, a new analysis methodology is proposed in this paper to consider the effects of both cost expectation and cost variability on the optimal maintenance policy. A new concept of the long-run variance of the cost is defined to represent the maintenance management risk, and then the objective function is revised accordingly to achieve an optimal cost-variability-sensitive maintenance policy. Based on the proposed framework, three traditional preventive maintenance policies have been reinvestigated and the effect of the variability sensitivity on the optimal policies is further analyzed, which reveals g...
Evaluation of Genetically Inactivated Alpha Toxin for Protection in Multiple Mouse Models of Staphylococcus aureus Infection

Staphylococcus aureus is a major human pathogen and a leading cause of nosocomial and community-acquired infections. Development of a vaccine against this pathogen is an important goal. While S. aureus protective antigens have been identified in the literature, the majority have only been tested in a single animal model of disease. We wished to evaluate the ability of one S. aureus vaccine antigen to protect in multiple mouse models, thus assessing whether protection in one model translates to protection in other models encompassing the full breadth of infections the pathogen can cause. We chose to focus on genetically inactivated alpha toxin mutant HlaH35L. We evaluated the protection afforded by this antigen in three models of infection using the same vaccine dose, regimen, route of immunization, adjuvant, and challenge strain. When mice were immunized with HlaH35L and challenged via a skin and soft tissue infection model, HlaH35L immunization led to a less severe infection and decreased S. aureus levels at the challenge site when compared to controls. Challenge of HlaH35L-immunized mice using a systemic infection model resulted in a limited, but statistically significant decrease in bacterial colonization as compared to that observed with control mice. In contrast, in a prosthetic implant model of chronic biofilm infection, there was no significant difference in bacterial levels when compared to controls. These results demonstrate that vaccines may confer protection against one form of S. aureus disease without conferring protection against other disease presentations and thus underscore a significant challenge in S. aureus vaccine development.
Open-label study of ultra low-dose mifepristone for the treatment of uterine leiomyomata.

Abstract Objective To assess the effect of ultra low-dose mifepristone on uterine size, pain, bleeding and quality of life among women with symptomatic leiomyomata. Study design Open-label cohort study of 2.5 mg mifepristone orally among adult women with at least moderately severe symptoms related to leiomyomata and total uterine volume of greater than 160 cm3, or at least one myoma of greater than 2.5 cm diameter. Assessments of leiomyomata and uterine size (ultrasound), pain (McGill Pain Questionnaire), bleeding (daily log duration), quality of life (Uterine Fibroid Symptom and Quality of Life) and health status (SF-36) were conducted at baseline, three months and six months. Endometrial sampling was done at baseline and six months. Results Seventeen (74%) participants completed the entire six-month trial. Each of the measures showed significant improvement at six months compared to baseline (p Conclusion Treatment of women with symptomatic leiomyomata with ultra low-dose mifepristone for six months is associated with modest reduction in uterine size, appreciable improvements in symptoms and quality of life and no evidence of endometrial hyperplasia.
On the Differences in Storm Rainfall from Hurricanes Isidore and Lili. Part I: Satellite Observations and Rain Potential

It has been well known for years that the heavy rain and flooding of tropical cyclones over land bear a weak relationship to the maximum wind intensity. The rainfall accumulation history and rainfall potential history of two North Atlantic hurricanes during 2002 (Isidore and Lili) are examined using a multisatellite algorithm developed for use with the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) dataset. This algorithm uses many channel microwave data sources together with high-resolution infrared data from geosynchronous satellites and is called the real-time Multisatellite Precipitation Analysis (MPA-RT). MPA-RT rainfall estimates during the landfalls of these two storms are compared with the combined U.S. Next-Generation Doppler Radar (NEXRAD) and gauge dataset: the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) hourly stage IV multisensor precipitation estimate analysis. Isidore produced a much larger storm total volumetric rainfall as a greatly weakened tropical storm than did category 1 Hurricane Lili during landfall over the same area. However, Isidore had a history of producing a large amount of volumetric rain over the open gulf. Average rainfall potential during the 4 days before landfall for Isidore was over a factor of 2.5 higher than that for Lili. When using the TRMM-based MPA-RT rainfall estimate, results are consistent with a previous study, which analyzed just the infrared-based rain estimation; that is, the rain potential history could be used as a predictor for the storm’s potential for inland flooding 3–4 days in advance of landfall.
Enhancing assertive community treatment with cognitive behavioral social skills training for schizophrenia: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Schizophrenia leads to profound disability in everyday functioning (e.g., difficulty finding and maintaining employment, housing, and personal relationships). Medications can effectively reduce positive symptoms (e.g., hallucinations and delusions), but they do not meaningfully improve daily life functioning. Psychosocial evidence-based practices (EBPs) improve functioning, but these EBPs are not available to most people with schizophrenia. The field must close the research and service delivery gap by adapting EBPs for schizophrenia to facilitate widespread implementation in community settings. Our hybrid effectiveness and implementation study represents an initiative to bridge this divide. In this study we will test whether an existing EBP (i.e., Cognitive Behavioral Social Skills Training (CBSST)) modified to work in practice settings (i.e., Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) teams) commonly available to persons with schizophrenia results in better consumer outcomes. We will also identify key factors relevant to developing future CBSST implementation strategies. For the effectiveness study component, persons with schizophrenia will be recruited from existing publicly funded ACT teams operating in community settings. Participants will be randomized to one of the 2 treatments (ACT alone or ACT + Adapted CBSST) and followed longitudinally for 18 months with assessments every 18 weeks after baseline (5 in total). The primary outcome domain is psychosocial functioning (e.g., everyday living skills and activities related to employment, education, and housing) as measured by self-report, testing, and observation. Additional outcome domains of interest include mediators of change in functioning, symptoms, and quality of services. Primary analyses will be conducted using linear mixed-effects models for continuous data. The implementation study component consists of a structured, mixed qualitative-quantitative methodology (i.e., Concept Mapping) to characterize and assess the implementation experience from multiple stakeholder perspectives in order to inform future implementation initiatives. Adapting CBSST to fit into the ACT service delivery context found throughout the United States creates an opportunity to substantially increase the number of persons with schizophrenia who could have access to and benefit from EBPs. As part of the implementation learning process training materials and treatment workbooks have been revised to promote easier use of CBSST in the context of brief community-based ACT visits. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02254733 . Date of registration: 25 April 2014.
Nanocrystal Synthesis in an Amphibious Bath: Spontaneous Generation of Hydrophilic and Hydrophobic Surface Coatings

Nanocrystalline materials are of intense and widespread interest because of their promising applications in biological labeling, chemical catalysis, micro/nanoelectronics, and energy production.[1] On the nanometer scale, semiconductors show size-dependent photoluminescence;[2] metals exhibit tunable surface plasmon bands;[1a,b] magnetic materials become superparamagnetic;[3] and chemical catalysts become more active.[1c,4] Recent research has led to high-quality and monodispersed colloidal nanocrystals by using a number of synthetic methods including reactions in reverse micelles,[5] arrested precipitation in aqueous solution,[5a,6] and organic-phase high temperature syntheses using hydrophobic coordinating ligands.[2a,7] The nanocrystals synthesized by these methods have shown various degrees of crystallinity, monodispersity, size-tunability, stability, and processibility. However, a major limitation is that the resulting nanoparticles are soluble only in the reaction solution or in chemically similar media.[8] For example, nanocrystals synthesized in trioctylphosphine oxide or other organic solvents are only soluble in nonaqueous media, whereas nanocrystals prepared in aqueous solution are not compatible with nonpolar solvents that are often used for fabrication of composite materials, device incorporation, and catalytic reactions.[9]
Tristetraprolin (TTP)-14-3-3 Complex Formation Protects TTP from Dephosphorylation by Protein Phosphatase 2a and Stabilizes Tumor Necrosis Factor-α mRNA

Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α is a major cytokine produced by alveolar macrophages in response to pathogen-associated molecular patterns such as lipopolysaccharide. TNF-α secretion is regulated at both transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. Post-transcriptional regulation occurs by modulation of TNF-α mRNA stability via the binding of tristetraprolin (TTP) to the adenosine/uridine-rich elements found in the 3′-untranslated region of the TNF-α transcript. Phosphorylation plays important roles in modulating mRNA stability, because activation of p38 MAPK by lipopolysaccharide stabilizes TNF-α mRNA. We hypothesized that the protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) regulates this signaling pathway. Our results show that inhibition of PP2A by okadaic acid or small interference RNA significantly enhanced the stability of TNF-α mRNA. This result was associated with increased phosphorylation of p38 MAPK and MAPK-activated kinase 2 (MK-2). PP2A inhibition increased TTP phosphorylation and enhanced complex formation with chaperone protein 14-3-3. TTP physically interacted with PP2A in transfected mammalian cells. A functional consequence of TTP-14-3-3 complex formation appeared to be protection of TTP from dephosphorylation by inhibition of the binding of PP2A to phosphorylated TTP. Mutation of the MK-2 phosphorylation sites of TTP did not influence TNF-α adenosine/uridine-rich element binding and did not alter the increased TNF-α 3′-untranslated region-dependent luciferase activity induced by PP2A-small interference RNA silencing. Our data indicate that, although phosphorylation stabilizes TNF-α mRNA, PP2A regulates the mRNA stability by modulating the phosphorylation state of members of the p38/MK-2/TTP pathway.