cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A comparison of buy-side and sell-side analysts

There is very little research on the topic of buy-side analyst performance, and that which does exist yields mixed results. We use a large sample from both the buy-side and the sell-side and report several new results. First, while the contemporaneous returns to portfolios based on sell-side recommendations are positive, the returns for buy-side analysts, proxied by changes in institutional holdings, are negative. Second, the buy-side analysts' underperformance is accentuated when they trade against sell-side analysts' recommendations. Third, abnormal returns positively relate to both the portfolio size and the portfolio turnover of buy-side analysts' institutions, suggesting that large institutions employ superior analysts and that superior analysts frequently change their recommendations. Abnormal returns are also positively related to buy-side portfolios with stocks that have higher analyst coverage, greater institutional holding, and lower earnings forecast dispersion. Fourth, there is substantial persistence in buy-side performance, but even the top decile performs poorly. These findings suggest that sell-side analysts still outperform buy-side analysts despite the severe conflicts of interest documented in the literature.
The effects of temperature-dependent viscosity and the instabilities in convection rolls of a layer of fluid-saturated porous medium

Convection of two-dimensional rolls in an infinite horizontal layer of fluid-saturated porous medium heated from below is studied numerically. Several important finite-amplitude states are isolated, and their bifurcation properties are shown. Effects of the temperature-dependent viscosity are included. The stability of these states is investigated with respect to the class of disturbances that have a ½π phase shift relative to the basic state. In particular, the oscillatory mechanism and the mean-flow generating mechanism through the variable viscosity are discussed.
Elementary Science Indoors and Out: Teachers, Time, and Testing

In this article, we present the results from a mixed-methods research study aimed to document indoor and outdoor fifth grade science experiences in one school in the USA in the context of accountability and standardized testing. We used quantitative measures to explore students’ science knowledge, environmental attitudes, and outdoor comfort levels, and via qualitative measures, we examined views on science education and environmental issues from multiple sources, including the school’s principal, teachers, and students. Students’ science knowledge in each of the four objectives specified for grade 5 significantly improved during the school year. Qualitative data collected through interviews and observations found limited impressions of outdoor science. Findings revealed that, despite best intentions and a school culture that supported outdoor learning, it was very difficult in practice for teachers to supplement their classroom science instruction with outdoor activities. They felt constrained by time and heavy content demands and decided that the most efficient way of delivering science instruction was through traditional methods. Researchers discuss potentials and obstacles for the science community to consider in supporting teachers and preparing elementary school teachers to provide students with authentic experiential learning opportunities. We further confront teachers’ and students’ perceptions that science is always best and most efficiently learned inside the classroom through traditional text-driven instruction.
Application of derivative chronopotentiometry to submicroformal concentrations

Abstract Derivative chronopotentiometry has been shown to be applicable to solutions of submicroformal concentrations using both standard addition and titration techniques. The correntions, originally suggested by Bard, for the chronopotentiometric constant at short transition times, have been found useful in derivative chronopotentiometry at low concentrations. It is also suggested that the transition time be operationally defined in terms of the dE/dt function and the equation derived by Peters and Burden.
Survey of chemically amplified resist models and simulator algorithms

Modeling has become indespensable tool for chemically amplified resist (CAR) evaluations. It has been used extensively to study acid diffusion and its effects on resist image formation. Several commercial and academic simulators have been developed for CAR process simulation. For commercial simulators such as PROLITH (Finle Technologies) and Solid-C (Sigma-C), the user is allowed to choose between an empirical model or a concentration dependant diffusion model. The empirical model is faster but not very accurate for 2-dimension resist simulations. In this case there is a trade off between the speed of the simulator and the accuracy of the results. An academic simulator such as STORM (U.C. Berkeley) gives the user a choice of different algorithms including Fast Imaging 2nd order finite difference algorithm and Moving Boundary finite element algorithm. A user interested in simulating the volume shrinkage and polymer stress effects during post exposure bake will need the Moving Boundary algorithm whereas a user interested in the latent image formation without polymer deformations will find the Fast Imaging algorithm more appropriate. The Fast Imaging algorithm is generally faster and requires less computer memory. This choice of algorithm presents a trade off between speed and level of detail in resist profile prediction. This paper surveys the different models and simulator algorithms available in the literature. Contributions in the field of CAR modeling including contributions to characterization of CAR exposure and post exposure bake (PEB) processes for different resist systems. Several numerical algorithms and their performances will also be discussed in this paper.
Elaboration of copper–oxygen mediated C–H activation chemistry in consideration of future fuel and feedstock generation

To contribute solutions to current energy concerns, improvements in the efficiency of dioxygen mediated C-H bond cleavage chemistry, for example, selective oxidation of methane to methanol, could minimize losses in natural gas usage or produce feedstocks for fuels. Oxidative C-H activation is also a component of polysaccharide degradation, potentially affording alternative biofuels from abundant biomass. Thus, an understanding of active-site chemistry in copper monooxygenases, those activating strong C-H bonds is briefly reviewed. Then, recent advances in the synthesis-generation and study of various copper-oxygen intermediates are highlighted. Of special interest are cupric-superoxide, Cu-hydroperoxo and Cu-oxy complexes. Such investigations can contribute to an enhanced future application of C-H oxidation or oxygenation processes using air, as concerning societal energy goals.
Functional profiling of the proteome with affinity labels.

Abstract The analysis of proteomic samples with affinity labels has been firmly established as a tool for the post-genomic researcher. Recent examples highlight the advantages of profiling functionally active members of specific protein families to identify therapeutically relevant protein targets that have escaped normal physiological regulation leading to increased or decreased activity. This dysregulation may result from any number of biological changes that modulate a protein’s activity; for example, post-translational modifications of the protein or an imbalance between the protein and its endogenous inhibitor(s). By providing a direct measure of a protein’s functional activity, affinity probe analysis identifies these changes and allows investigators to focus their research efforts upon those proteins that are most likely to be responsible for the biological changes under evaluation.
Efficacy of inhaled corticosteroids in asthma

Inhaled corticosteroids have now become established as first-line therapy for patients with persistent asthma. Corticosteroids are the only currently available asthma therapy that suppress inflammation in asthmatic airways, and they inhibit almost every aspect of the inflammatory process in asthma. Inhaled corticosteroids are effective in most patients with asthma, irrespective of age or asthma severity. They not only control asthma symptoms and improve lung function but also prevent exacerbations and may reduce asthma mortality and the irreversible changes in airway function that occur in some patients. The dose-response curve to inhaled corticosteroids is relatively flat, and there is increasing evidence that addition of another class of therapy (long-acting inhaled beta2-agonists, low-dose theophylline, or antileukotrienes) may be preferable to increasing the dose of inhaled corticosteroids in patients with moderate-to-severe asthma. Inhaled corticosteroids are convenient to use and are the most cost-effective treatment currently available for long-term asthma control. A small proportion of patients are resistant to the antiinflammatory effects of corticosteroids. Future developments may include inhaled corticosteroids with even fewer systemic effects or more specific antiinflammatory drugs.
Models and procedures for evaluating government provided leisure services

Abstract This paper briefly describes an experimental project in which government attempted to set up a viable management information and feedback system for evaluating accountability in services delivery. Conceptual models for agency goals and services delivery were designed and measures of program performance were developed in the provision of leisure and recreational services. Two citizen surveys are described which contributed data for service provider feedback. A discussion of perspectives on the definition of equity is presented.
A new genus, Smilirhexia, of Smiliini (Hemiptera, Membracidae) from Costa Rica

Smilirhexia naranja, gen. n. and sp. n., is described from Central America, the southern limit of the tribe Smiliini, and represents a strong divergence from the morphology of the oak-feeding genera prevalent in North America.
Realtime Obstacle Detection and Tracking Based on Constrained Delaunay Triangulation

We introduce a realtime vehicle detection and tracking algorithm for in-vehicle video images. Although various vehicle detection approaches have been proposed, it is difficult to find a fast and reliable algorithm for realtime applications, such as for vehicle collision warning. We introduce a realtime appearance-based vehicle detection approach. It uses constrained Delaunay triangulation to make image evidence collection for multiple overlapping hypotheses computationally efficient. We also propose an integrated detection and tracking approach where redundant detection and tracking can compensate each other's shortcomings. The experiment was performed on various video clips of highways and local roads with various traffic and illumination conditions, and the resulting performance is competitive compared to those of other active sensors
Activation of D2-like dopamine receptors inhibits GABA and glycinergic neurotransmission to pre-motor cardiac vagal neurons in the nucleus ambiguus

The parasympathetic control of heart rate arises from premotor cardiac vagal neurons (CVNs) located in the nucleus ambiguus (NA). Previous microinjection studies in NA show that dopamine evokes a decrease in heart rate, but the underlying mechanisms responsible for these responses were not identified. This study tested whether dopamine modulates inhibitory GABAergic and glycinergic and/or excitatory glutamatergic neurotransmission to CVNs. Retrogradely labeled CVNs were identified in an in vitro rat brainstem slice preparation and synaptic events were recorded using whole cell voltage clamp techniques. Bath application of dopamine (100 μM) had no effect on excitatory synaptic events, but reversibly inhibited the frequency (but not amplitude) of GABAergic inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs) in CVNs. Similarly, dopamine (10 μM and 100 μM) inhibited glycinergic IPSC frequency by ~50% and 70% respectively. The reduction in inhibitory neurotransmission to CVNs by dopamine was prevented by the sodium channel blocker TTX (1μM) indicating that the dopamine mediated effects were action potential dependent. Dopamine evoked responses were mimicked by the D2-like receptor agonist, Quinpirole but not D1-like receptor agonist, SKF 38393. In addition, the dopamine mediated depression of inhibitory synaptic responses were prevented by the D2-like receptor antagonist sulpiride, but not by D1-like or adrenergic or serotonergic receptor antagonists, suggesting that these responses were D2-like receptor mediated and not D1-like or adrenergic or 5-HT receptor mediated. These data suggest that dopamine acts via dis-inhibition, and diminishes inhibitory GABAergic and glycinergic neurotransmission to CVNs, which would be predicted to increase parasympathetic activity to the heart and evoke a bradycardia.
A hollow-t carbon atomizer for atomic absorption spectrometry

Abstract A hollow T-piece atomizer for atomic absorption spectrometry has been developed and tested. No heating program is necessary for ashing or solvent removal. Chemical interferences are very low, and molecular interferences from aqueous solvents are virtually removed. Sensitivities are at least as good as, and in many cases better than, those hitherto reported in the literature.
Vibrational relaxation in ionic liquids and ionic liquid reverse micelles

Abstract We report static and ultrafast IR studies of Fe(CN) 5 NO 2− and W(CO) 6 in bulk ionic liquids and of ionic liquid reverse micelles. For Fe(CN) 5 NO 2− and W(CO) 6 in ionic liquids, the vibrational frequencies appear to scale with solute–solvent interaction strength, but the vibrational energy relaxation (VER) times are longer than in methanol and DMSO. The VER times in the reverse micelles are consistent with a solvation environment that has mixed surfactant and ionic liquid and is more polar than the bulk ionic liquid. These results differ from previous ionic liquid reverse micelle studies.
Of treatment systems and depression : An overview of quality-improvement opportunities in hospital-based psychiatric care

A clinical perspective on depression tends to focus on therapy and on medications or psychological interventions that may be helpful to individual patients. A broader view on the treatment enterprise, however, suggests that there are other dimensions to treatment and that opportunities for improving the quality of care and patient outcomes are not limited to innovation in therapeutics. This article examines several of the nonclinical facets of inpatient care, using the frame of a conceptual pyramid to explore the relationships between therapy and its professional, organizational, care-management, and economic concomitants. By drawing on a conceptual pyramid that elucidates several nonclinical dimensions of inpatient treatment for depression, we describe the potential for corresponding quality improvement activities among psychiatric providers. The pyramid suggests that there are multiple opportunities for future interventions to promote quality in inpatient psychiatric care, that those opportunities are considerably more varied than a purely clinical perspective might recognize, and that interventions in nonclinical aspects of the treatment system have the potential to cascade "downward" to affect clinical outcomes over time.
Computed tomography after adrenalectomy in adrenal cortical carcinoma.

This report deals with the follow-up diagnostic evaluation of 18 patients previously treated for adrenal cortical carcinoma. The role of computed tomography is emphasized. Nine patients had adrenalectomy and the other 9 had adrenalectomy and ipsilateral nephrectomy. The left kidney and adrenal were removed in 8 patients. The patients were evaluated for 2–59 months with an average follow-up of 16 months. Of the 13 patients (72%) who had recurrent or metastatic disease, 8 experienced local recurrence in the adrenal fossa, 2 of whom had associated renal involvement. The recurrence was seen in 5 patients in the left and in 3 patients in the right side. Metastases occurred in the lung (7 patients), liver (3 patients), peritoneum (2 patients), paraaortic lymph nodes (3 patients), and bone (1 patient). At the time of the discovery of recurrence or metastases, 5 patients presented with lung metastases found on chest x-rays, 3 had recurrent Cushing’s syndrome or hypertension, 3 had abdominal pain, 1 had weight loss, and 1 was asymptomatic.
Advanced L2 learners and reading placement: Self-assessment, CBT, and subsequent performance

Abstract There is a dearth of research involving advanced second language (L2) learners in the USA [Brantmeier, C., 2001. Second language reading research on passage content and gender: challenges for the intermediate level curriculum, Foreign Language Annals 34, 325–333; Young, D.J., 2003. Workshop on overcoming anxiety in the foreign language classroom. Language Learning Series, Washington University in St. Louis]. At some universities in the USA many freshmen test directly into the advanced levels of Spanish language instruction where the goal is to prepare students for the reading of lengthy, authentic texts. With 71 advanced L2 learners of Spanish, the current research project attempts to determine the reliability of self-assessment, as determined by a questionnaire previously utilized for placement [Birckbichler, D., Corl, K., Deville, C., 1993. The dynamics of language program testing: implications for articulation and program revision. The Dynamics of Language Program Direction. Heinle and Heinle, Boston, MA; Deville, M., Deville, C., 1999. Computer-adaptive testing in second language contexts. Annual Review of Applied Linguistics 19, 273–299], to predict reading performance via computer-based testing (CBT) and subsequent reading achievement. All incoming freshmen completed self-assessment questions about L2 reading abilities before completing an online placement exam (OPLE). In order to assess subsequent reading performance, all students who tested into Advanced Spanish Grammar and Composition participated in an investigation during regular class time during the 3rd week of class. Participants read a short story, completed three different comprehension assessment tasks and additional self-assessment items. Overall, results of the present study suggest that self-assessment of L2 reading ability, as measured before and after reading via a 5-point scale, is not an accurate predictor variable for placement or subsequent performance. Advanced learners did not accurately estimate their L2 reading abilities as measured via CBT and in-class performance. Findings do not offer conclusive evidence about the value of self-assessment as a predictor of performance on CBT or as an indicator of subsequent classroom performance, but the current investigation provides indications as to the direction in which research on self-assessment of L2 reading needs to move. A more contextualized, criterion-referenced self-assessment instrument may be more beneficial for the placement of advanced readers in the USA. These results both echo and contradict prior research, which calls attention to the need for more investigations concerning instrumentation of self-assessment as a factor to be used in placement decisions for advanced learners.
Characterisation of monounsaturated fatty acids from an estuarine sediment

PREVIOUS investigations of fatty acids in marine sediments have primarily been concerned with the concentrations of the individual acids rather than their chemical configuration1–4. Brown and Swidler5 have demonstrated the ability of clay to catalyse the conversion of oleic acid (18:1Δ9 cis) to elaidic acid (18:1Δ9 trans) accompanied by extensive rearrangement of the double bond position. (18:1= normal carbon chain length: number of double bonds). As most biologically produced olefinic acids are believed to be in the cis configuration, diagenetic changes in the sediment may alter the cis isomers to the more stable trans isomers, as well as cause migration of the double bond. Consequently, investigations of the monounsaturated fatty acid cis/trans ratio and position of the double bonds, with depth in the sediment, may yield significant information on diagenetic pathways of these acids. We have determined the presence of small amounts of palmitelaidic acid (16:1Δ9 trans) and elaidic acid (18:1Δ9 trans), as well as other positional isomers of these trans acids, in a Recent estuarine sediment. In addition, we have also confirmed that the major monounsaturated fatty acids are palmitoleic acid (16:1Δ9 cis) and oleic acid (18:1Δ9 cis). We give here the methods for isolating these acids and confirming their structures, and their geochemical significance is discussed.
Teaching Format and Student Style: Their Interactive Effects on Learning.

This research compared the effectiveness of Peer-Centered (PC) and Instructor-Centered (IC) formats for Teaching-Assistant-led discussion sections in chemistry. In addition, an Aptitude-Treatment Interaction (ATI) was hypothesized, such that self-described “collaborative” students would report more learning from the PC format and “competitive” students would benefit more from the IC format. The PC format utilized small subgroups and student presentations, while in the IC format the Teaching Assistant lectured, solved problems, and answered questions. The two sections were approximately equal in overall learning, except that more learning from fellow students occurred in the PC sections. The expected ATI effect was found. In addition, students with interpersonally oriented learning styles benefited more from interactive learning opportunities (such as sections), while those with other learning styles gained more from impersonal media (such as textbooks).
The Effect of Organic Modifiers on Electrospray Ionization Charge-State Distribution and Desorption Efficiency for Oligonucleotides

The chemical composition of the solution has a critical impact on the electrospray desorption efficiency of oligonucleotides. Several physiochemical properties of various organic modifiers were investigated with respect to their role in the desorption process of oligonucleotides. The Henry’s Law Constant, which reflects the volatility of alkylamines, was found to have a prominent effect on both the electrospray charge state distribution and desorption efficiency of oligonucleotides. Alkylamines with higher $$ \mathrm{k}_{\mathrm{H,cc}}\left( {\mathrm{aq}/\mathrm{gas}} \right) $$ values such as hexylamine, piperidine, and imidazole reduced the charge state distribution by forming complexes with the oligonucleotide and dissociating from it in the gas phase, while alkylamines with extremely low $$ \mathrm{k}_{\mathrm{H,cc}}\left( {\mathrm{aq}/\mathrm{gas}} \right) $$ values reduced the electrospray charge state distribution by facilitating ion emission at an earlier stage of the electrospray desorption process. Ion-pairing agents with moderate $$ \mathrm{k}_{\mathrm{H,cc}}\left( {\mathrm{aq}/\mathrm{gas}} \right) $$ values do not alter the electrospray charge state distribution of oligonucleotides and their ability to enhance oligonucleotide ionization followed the order of decreasing $$ \mathrm{k}_{\mathrm{H,cc}}\left( {\mathrm{aq}/\mathrm{gas}} \right) $$ values. The Henry’s Law Constant also correlated to the impact of the acidic modifiers on oligonucleotide ionization efficiency. Ionization enhancement effects were observed with hexafluoroisopropanol, and this effect was attributed to its low $$ \mathrm{k}_{\mathrm{H,cc}}\left( {\mathrm{aq}/\mathrm{gas}} \right) $$ and moderate acidity. The comprehensive effects of both alkylamine and hexafluoroisoproapnol on the electrospray ionization desorption of oligonucleotides were also evaluated, and acid-base equilibrium was found to play a critical role in determining these effects.
Quality of life in American Indian and White women with and without rheumatoid arthritis.

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this study was to examine quality of life (QOL) in American Indian and White women with and without rheumatoid arthritis. METHOD. This cross-sectional study included 64 women in four groups: American Indians with rheumatoid arthritis, healthy American Indians, Whites with rheumatoid arthritis, and healthy Whites. Participants received evaluations of pain, joint motion, hand function, daily task performance, community participation, and QOL. RESULTS. There was a significant difference in QOL between the participants with rheumatoid arthritis and the healthy control groups but not between the American Indian and White groups. Current health and emotional�social function related to QOL in all groups. Dexterity also correlated with QOL in the two groups with rheumatoid arthritis. Performance of daily activities correlated with QOL in all groups except the healthy White groups. Community participation did not correlate with QOL. CONCLUSIONS. The findings suggest that rheumatoid arthritis in American Indian and White women does affect QOL and that QOL does not seem to be influenced by ethnicity. Factors that related to QOL also were similar for both groups with rheumatoid arthritis.
Pesticides, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and polychlorinated biphenyls in transport in two atlantic coastal plain tributaries and loadings to Chesapeake Bay.

Abstract Concentrations of current-use pesticides, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and organochlorine (OC) insecticides were determined above the reach of tide in the Chesterville Branch and Nanticoke River on the eastern shore of Chesapeake Bay during base-flow and storm-flow hydrologic regimes to evaluate mass transport to Chesapeake Bay. The two rivers monitored showed relatively high concentrations of atrazine, simazine, alachlor, and metolachlor in comparison to previously investigated western shore tributaries, and reflected the predominant agricultural land use in the eastern shore watersheds. The four current use pesticides showed the greatest seasonal contribution to annual loadings to tidal waters of Chesapeake Bay from the two rivers, and the relative order of annual loadings for the other contaminant classes was PAHs>PCBs>OC insecticides. Annual loadings normalized to the landscape areas of selected Chesapeake Bay watersheds showed correlations to ide...
Detection of Trace Heavy Metal Ions Using Carbon Nanotube- Modified Electrodes

A sensitive voltammetric method for detection of trace heavy metal ions using chemically modified carbon nanotubes (CNTs) electrode surfaces is described. The CNTs were covalently modified with cysteine prior to casting on electrode surfaces. Cysteine is an amino acid with high affinities towards some heavy metals. In this assay, heavy metals ions accumulated on the cysteine-modified CNT electrode surfaces prior to being subjected to differential pulse anodic stripping voltammetry analysis. The resulting peak currents were linearly related to the concentrations of the metal ions. The method was optimized with respect to accumulation time, reduction time and reduction potential. The detection limits were found to be 1 ppb and 15 ppb for Pb2+ and Cu2+ respectively. The technique was used for the detection of Pb2+ and Cu2+ in spiked lake water. The average recoveries of Pb2+ and Cu2+ were 96.2% and 94.5% with relative standard deviations of 8.43% and 7.53% respectively. The potential for simultaneous detection of heavy metal ions by the modified CNTs was also demonstrated.
"We Don′t Expect It Happened": On Mazursky and Ofir′s (1990) Purported Reversal of the Hindsight Bias

Abstract Mazursky and Ofir (1990) recently claimed to have shown a reversal of the hindsight bias. They presented three experiments which supposedly showed that, following unexpected and surprising events, judgments were biased in a direction opposite to that predicted by the hindsight bias. We argue that the Mazursky and Ofir results should not be interpreted as a reversal of the hindsight bias for three reasons: (1) Mazursky and Ofir′s supposed reversal effect is on a rating of the quality of a product, rather than on the sort of likelihood ratings on which the hindsight bias has been demonstrated; (2) their results can readily be interpreted in terms of a contrast effect, especially in the case of their Experiments 1 and 2; and (3) given the use of quality ratings, the supposed reversal effect could have resulted from subjects′ desire to rate one product as superior, in part by rating other similar products as inferior. Discussion focuses on other purported evidence for a reversal of the hindsight effect and on suggestions for future research.
A Hybrid Coil/Polymer Device for Occlusion of Cerebral Aneurysms

The treatment of cerebral aneurysms is frequently accomplished via endovascular delivery of metal coils in order to occlude the aneurysm and prevent rupture. This procedure involves imprecise packing of large lengths of wire into the aneurysm and often results in high rates of aneurysm recanalization. Over time, this incomplete aneurysm occlusion can lead to aneurysm enlargement, which may have fatal consequences. This report describes the fabrication and preliminary testing of a novel aneurysm occlusion device composed of a single metal coil surrounded by a biocompatible polymer shell. These coil-in-shell devices were tested under flow conditions in synthetic in vitro models of saccular aneurysms and deployed in vivo in a short-term porcine aneurysm model to study occlusion efficacy. A single nickel titanium shape memory wire was used to deploy a biocompatible, elastic polymeric shell, leading to aneurysmal sac filling in both in vitro and in vivo aneurysm models. The deployment of this coil-in-shell device in synthetic aneurysm models in vitro resulted in varying degrees of aneurysm occlusion, with less than 2% of trials resulting in significant leakage of fluid into the aneurysm. Meanwhile, in vivo coil-in-shell device implantation in a porcine aneurysm model provided proof-of-concept for successful occlusion, as both aneurysms were completely occluded by the devices. Both in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrated that this coil-in-shell device may be attractive as an alternative to traditional coil embolization methods in some cases, allowing for a more precise and controlled aneurysm occlusion.
Consumers, crazies and killer whales: The environment on New Zealand television:

This study is an analysis of environmental content on New Zealand-produced television. A quantitative and qualitative content analysis was undertaken of 140 hours of programming, across all genres, from four New Zealand television channels. Programmes were analysed for the prevalence of environmental content, which specific topics were mentioned and how the environment was positioned in relation to the programme’s narrative. The study found that television’s attention to the environment is relatively infrequent, with a diverse range of issues and perspectives. While these portrayals were almost always positive towards the environment, they were frequently linked to consumerist values, positioned as separate from everyday reality and were generally supportive of the social and political status quo. An exception to this was programming aimed at Māori audiences, where environmental issues were linked to traditional cultural knowledge and the natural world was of more relevance to everyday life.
NbN x -NbO y -PbIn z Josephson junctions with R.F. oxidised tunneling barriers

We report the fabrication of high quality Josephson tunnel junctions made by the r.f. sputter-deposition method. The characteristics of these junctions were determined at 4.2°K as a function of the following fabrication parameters: the substrate temperature, the sputtering power during base electrode deposition, and the r.f. oxidation time for the barrier. We have obtained critical current densities from 90 to 800 Amperes/cm2which depended exponentially on the barrier formation time, a gap energy of 3.3meV, and hysteretic current-voltage characteristics. Thermal cycling of a few junctions resulted in small changes in the current-voltage curves. Auger Electron Spectroscopy and ESCA of the films show that x=1.02, z=0.25, and that the niobium oxide is a mixture of Nb 2 O 5 and the lower oxides, NbO and NbO 2 , that are present at the oxide-base electrode interface.
Mechanical and thermal properties of biocomposites from poly(lactic acid) and DDGS

Distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS), an ethanol industry coproduct, is used mainly as a low-value feedstuff. Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is a leading biodegradable polymer, but its applications are limited by its relatively high cost. In this study, low-cost, high-performance biodegradable composites were prepared through thermal compounding of DDGS and PLA with methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) as a coupling agent. Mechanical, morphological, and thermal properties of the composites were studied. The coupling mechanism of MDI in the PLA/DDGS system was confirmed via Fourier-transform infrared spectra. The PLA/20% DDGS composite with 1% MDI showed tensile strength (77 MPa) similar to that of pure PLA, but its Young's modulus was 25% higher than that of pure PLA. With MDI, strong interfacial adhesion was established between the PLA matrix and DDGS particles, and the porosity of the composites decreased dramatically. Crystallinity of PLA in the composites was higher than that in pure PLA. Composites with MDI had higher storage moduli at room temperature than pure PLA. This novel application of DDGS for biocomposites has significantly higher economic value than its traditional use as a feedstuff. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Isobaric Analog Resonances in Proton Elastic and Inelastic Scattering from TELLURIUM-130.

Proton elastic scattering data are analyzed in the framework of a single-particle theory to obtain energies, partial widths, total widths, and spectroscopic factors for 14 isobaric analog resonances in $^{131}\mathrm{I}$. Excitation functions and fits are presented and the results are compared with those of similar analyses as well as with those of ($d,p$) investigations. A total of 42 excited states in $^{130}\mathrm{Te}$ were identified from the inelastic spectra at the various resonances. Groups of states at the ${d}_{\frac{3}{2}}$, ${f}_{\frac{7}{2}}$, and ${p}_{\frac{3}{2}}$ resonances were analyzed as neutron particle-neutron hole states, and fits to the angular-distribution data for these states are presented. The analysis provides proton partial widths, spectroscopic factors, and assignment of possible spins and parities for these states. The $^{130}\mathrm{Te}$ inelastic results are compared with those of other nuclei in the $N=82$ mass region.
How Predictive Appeals Affect Policy Opinions

When political actors debate the merits of a public policy, they often focus on the consequences of a bill or legislative proposal, with supporters and opponents making stark but contradictory predictions about the future. Building upon the framing literature, I examine how rhetoric about a policy's consequences influences public opinion. I show that predictive appeals work largely by altering people's beliefs about the impact of a policy. Following in the tradition of recent framing research, this article also examines how opinions are influenced when people are exposed to opposing predictions. The analysis focuses on two strategies that are common in real-world debates—the direct rebuttal (in which an initial appeal is challenged by a statement making the opposite prediction) and the alternate frame (which counters an initial appeal by shifting the focus to some other consequence). There are important differences in the effectiveness of these two strategies—a finding that has implications for the study of competitive framing and the policymaking process more generally.
Pseudomonas surgical-site infections linked to a healthcare worker with onychomycosis.

Objective:To determine the etiology of Pseudomonas aeruginosa surgical-site infections following cardiac surgery.Setting:University teaching hospital.Patients:Those with wound cultures that grew P. aeruginosa after cardiac surgery performed from 1999 to 2001.Methods:Medical records and operating room (OR) records of patients with P. aeruginosa cardiac surgical-site infections from 1999 to 2001 were reviewed. Healthcare workers involved with two or more cases were interviewed and examined. Specimens for environmental cultures were obtained from the ORs and cardiac surgical equipment. Cardiac surgery cases were observed and postoperative care and the cleaning of surgical instruments were investigated. OR air handling system records during the epidemic period were reviewed. Molecular fingerprinting of available P. aeruginosa isolates from infected patients and a healthcare worker was done.Results:There were five P. aeruginosa cardiac surgical-site infections from January to August 2001, compared with no such infections from 1999 to 2000. All were adult patients. One cardiac surgeon with onychomycosis operated on all five cases. He did not routinely double glove. The involved fingernail grew P. aeruginosa. Three P. aeruginosa patient isolates were available for pulsed-field gel electrophoresis; two were identical to the isolate from the involved surgeon's onychomycotic nail. No environmental OR cultures grew P. aeruginosa. The surgeon's culture-positive nail was completely removed. There have been no P. aeruginosa surgical-site infections among cardiac surgery patients since this intervention.Conclusion:At least two cases of a cluster of P. aeruginosa surgical-site infections resulted from colonization of a cardiac surgeon's onychomycotic nail.
Metalloenzymes and signal transduction: the protein serine/threonine phosphatases, a novel class of binuclear metal-containing enzymes

The serine/threonine protein phosphatases are important regulatory enzymes involved in signal transduction pathways in eukaryotic organisms. These enzymes include protein phosphatases 1, 2A, and 2B (also known as calcineurin). Recent structural data have indicated that the serine/threonine protein phosphatases are novel metalloenzymes containing a dinuclear metal ion cofactor at the active site. The dinuclear metal site is situated in a unique protein fold, a β-α-β-α-β motif which provides the majority of ligands to the metal ions. A similar fold is also seen in plant purple acid phosphatases, which also contain a dinuclear iron–zinc cofactor. In these enzymes, the two metal ions are bridged by a solvent molecule and a carboxylate group from an aspartic acid residue, juxtaposing the two metal ions to within 3.0–4.0 A of each other. A similar motif has been identified in a number of other enzymes which exhibit phosphoesterase activity, implicating several of them as metalloenzymes which contain dinuclear metal ion cofactors.
Further evidence for the FeII-FeIV and FeIII-FeV manifolds in the substitution of saturated hydrocarbons

The substitution of saturated hydrocarbons by the anions nitrite, thiocyanate, azide and chloride, using H2O2 and TBHP as oxidants has been shown to depend upon the FeII-FeIV manifold and to involve radical chemistry. As soon as the FeII has been oxidised to FeIII, the reactions proceed in the FeIII-FeV manifold where oxidation, but no anion substitution, is seen.
First Report of Downy Mildew on Delphinium Caused by Peronospora ficariae in California

Along California's central coast, delphinium (Delphinium species and cultivars) is grown as a cut flower and potted plant. In the spring of 2003, severe downy mildew was observed on various delphinium crops in Santa Cruz County. The disease was detected on cut flower Delphinium ‘Volkerfrieden’ in a greenhouse and adjacent field production areas. At a different nursery, outdoor, containerized D. grandiflorum ‘Blue Butterfly’ and Delphinium elatum (Pacific Hybrids) were also infected. Initial symptoms on leaves consisted of light green patches. These areas quickly turned dark green to blackish green and often were delimited by the central vein of the leaf. Purple-gray sporulation of the pathogen could be seen primarily on the abaxial leaf surfaces. Symptoms were most severe on older foliage. As disease progressed, the lower leaves withered and dried up, giving the plant a blighted appearance. Disease was most severe on D. grandiflorum ‘Blue Butterfly’, in which the disease affected the entire planting and b...
INSTITUTIONALISM: INTERGOVERNMENTAL EXCHANGE, ADMINISTRATION-CENTERED BEHAVIOR, AND POLICY OUTCOMES IN URBAN AGENCIES

This article inquires about the sufficiency of institutional exchange theory in explaining the impacts of intergovernmental power structure on agency policy making. Based on rational behavior, transactional exchange, and game playing, this socalled new institutionalism points to the degree of autonomy held by an agency in its collaboration with other government jurisdiction as a principal determinant of a patterned bias in agency policy outcomes. The authorfirst sumnarizes theory arguments and derives hypotheses about agency outcomes that are skewed to favor some interests over others. He then reports results of a multiple regression analysis of a sample offorty-two transit agencies. Findings indicate that institutional exchange matters a good deal more than alternative theses, but the theory does not fully explain specific relationships.
The Hin dimer interface is critical for Fis-mediated activation of the catalytic steps of site-specific DNA inversion

Abstract Background: Hin is a member of an extended family of site-specific recombinases – the DNA invertase/resolvase family – that catalyze inversion or deletion of DNA. DNA inversion by Hin occurs between two recombination sites and requires the regulatory protein Fis, which associates with a cis -acting recombinational enhancer sequence. Hin recombinase dimers bind to the two recombination sites and assemble onto the Fis-bound enhancer to generate an invertasome structure, at which time they become competent to catalyze DNA cleavage and strand exchange. In this report, we investigate the role of the Hin dimer interface in the activation of its catalytic functions. Results We show that the Hin dimer is formed at an interface that contains putative amphipathic α -helices in a manner that is very similar to γ δ resolvase. Certain detergents weakened cooperative interactions between the subunits of the Hin dimer and dramatically increased the rate of the first chemical step of the reaction –double-strand cleavage events at the center of the recombination sites. Amino-acid substitutions within the dimer interface led to profound changes in the catalytic properties of the recombinase. Nearly all mutations strongly affected the ability of the dimer to cleave DNA and most abolished DNA strand exchange in vitro . Some amino-acid substitutions altered the concerted nature of the DNA cleavage events within both recombination sites, and two mutations resulted in cleavage activity that was independent of Fis activation in vitro . Disulfide-linked Hin dimers were catalytically inactive; however, subsequent to the addition of the Fis-bound enhancer sequence, catalytic activity was no longer affected by the presence of oxidizing agents. Conclusion The combined results demonstrate that the Hin dimer interface is of critical importance for the activation of catalysis and imply that interactions with the Fis-bound enhancer may trigger a conformational adjustment within the region that is important for concerted DNA cleavage within both recombination sites, and possibly for the subsequent exchange of DNA strands.
Evaluation of canine bone marrow proliferative disorders by use of flow cytometric analysis of CD45 expression and intracytoplasmic complexity

Bone marrow from 14 dogs with proliferative disorders was evaluated by labeling cells with anti-CD45 and analyzing them by use of flow cytometry. Bone marrow from five healthy dogs was also evaluated to identify normal cell labeling patterns. The cells were displayed as the logarithm of red fluorescence intensity vs side-angle light scatter plots (CD45 scatter plots). For healthy dogs, the CD45 scatter plot technique identified four discrete cell populations. The immunophenotype of these cells identified these populations as granulocytes, erythroid cells, lymphocytes, and monocyte/macrophages. The CD45 scatter plot technique identified discrete populations of atypical cells in all dogs with proliferative disorders. Immunophenotyping of the atypical populations resulted in diagnoses of myelodysplastic syndrome, acute myeloid leukemia, acute lymphocytic leukemia, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, metastatic lymphosarcoma, megakaryoblastic leukemia, and metastatic mast cell tumor. Possible clinical applications of the CD45 labeling technique include detection of malignant cell populations for immunophenotyping, early detection of metastasis of lymphosarcoma to bone marrow, detection of residual malignant cells after chemotherapy, and early detection of recurrence of leukemias.
Pediatric HIV infection.

Our ability to diagnose, treat, and prevent HIV infection in pregnant women and in children has changed dramatically over the last few years. Recent developments include "early diagnostic" techniques such as polymerase chain reaction, quantitative viral load measurements to assist in estimating disease status and prognosis, newer antiretroviral therapies (including combinations) and effective antibiotic prophylaxis for HIV-infected children, and a better understanding of maternal-fetal factors that may mediate transmission of HIV. As children with long-term immunosuppression live longer, we are diagnosing new diseases and unusual clinical manifestations of common diseases. Children are living into their teenage years with perinatally acquired HIV infection, and we now find ourselves dealing with many of the complex medical and psychosocial issues that have confronted clients with other chronic diseases (e.g., diabetes, cancer): issues of growth failure; nutrition; depression' disclosure of illness to school, friends, and family; and death and dying. What separates HIV from other chronic diseases is its ability to infect and affect so many other family members, not just the child.
Reaction time for horizontal versus vertical line-length discrimination

In an experiment with 8 men and women, a small but statistically significant effect on reaction time (RT) was found with respect to horizontal versus vertical line-length discrimination. This effect was in the form of a crossing interaction between axis of orientation and the short-long ratio of line lengths. With a relatively high value of this ratio (the more difficult discrimination), horizontal choice was faster; with a lower value, vertical choice was faster. An interpretation of the crossing interaction is that two opposing factors were involved: greater horizontal than vertical sensitivity and greater left-right than up-down ambivalence. It is recommended that in RT experiments comparing parallel and orthogonal stimulus-response mapping, all four combinations of horizontal and vertical stimulus and response axes be employed.