cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Dividend yields and stock returns: Implications of abnormal January returns

Abstract This study examines the empirical relation between stock returns and (long-run) dividend yields. The findings show that much of the phenomenon is due to a nonlinear relation between dividend yields and returns in January. Regression coefficients on dividend yields, which some models predict should be non-zero due to differential taxation of dividends and capital gains, exhibit a significant January seasonal, even when controlling for size. This finding is significant since there are no provisions in the after-tax asset pricing models that predict the tax differential is more important in January than in other months.
Muslim women and the Ontario Shari'ah tribunals: Discourses of race and imperial hegemony in the name of gender equality

Synopsis In late 2003, the Ontario-based Islamic Institute of Civil Justice (IICJ) made the announcement that, under the Ontario Arbitration Act, Muslims could resolve their family disputes through faith-based arbitration. This announcement quickly garnered international attention and certain women's rights organizations launched a global campaign to ban this kind of faith-based arbitration, because they argued that Islamic laws did not reflect a certain concept of gender equality. This article argues that the legal and public debates about the Ontario Shari'ah tribunals routinely divided women into two categories: those who could make informed decisions and those who could not. This dichotomy centralized the issue of gender equality and constituted Muslim men as perpetrators. It was also linked to the notion of Islam's “backwardness.” Such representations abstracted a certain difference from its context and power relations, and both fed into and were sustained by longstanding Orientalist discourses, contributing to Islamophobia.
Comparison of doxycycline and minocycline in the inhibition of VEGF-induced smooth muscle cell migration.

Smooth muscle cell migration plays an important role during angiogenesis and vascular remodeling. In this study, we examined the effects of doxycycline and minocycline on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-induced human aortic smooth muscle cell (HASMCs) migration, and explored the mechanisms in which doxycycline or minocycline inhibit HASMC migration. We demonstrated that both doxycycline and minocycline attain consistent anti-angiogenic effects in the inhibition of HASMC migration via a different signal pathway (p < 0.05). This effect is through attenuating VEGF-induced matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) activity (p < 0.05). Doxycycline could increase tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases-1 (TIMP-1) expression while minocycline down-regulated PI3K/Akt phosphorylation in HASMC. Our study suggests that doxycycline has a stronger ability to inhibit MMP secretion in HASMC by up-regulating endogenous MMPs inhibitor TIMP-1, while minocycline implements anti-angiogenic effect through inhibiting HASMC migration by down-regulating PI3K/Akt pathway.
Level of training, wound care practices, and infection rates

Abstract This prospective, nonrandomized descriptive study compares the traumatic wound infection rates in patients based on level of training of emergency department (ED) practitioners. Wounds were evaluated in 1,163 patients. A wound registry data sheet was prospectively completed on all patients sutured in the ED. All practitioners were assigned a unique identification number. Follow-up data was obtained at the time of the return visit. Patients failing to return were contacted by telephone. Data were analyzed for patient wound infection rates by practitioner level of training. Patient wound infection rates by practitioner level of training were: medical students, 060 (0%); all resident physicians, 17547 (3.1%); physician assistants, 11305 (3.6%); and attending physicians 14251 (5.6%), P was not significant. Comparison of junior (medical students and interns) to senior practitioners (all other practitioners) found no difference in infection rates (8262 [3.1%] v 34901 [3.8%], P = .58). In conclusion, carefully selected patients sutured by closely supervised medical students and junior residents have infection rates as low as those sutured by more experienced practitioners.
Atomic Mass Measurements with Radioactive Beams and/or Targets: Where to Start

Radioactive beams or radioactive targets (or both) can significantly increase the yields of exotic isotopes, allowing studies to be performed in regions which are currently inaccessible. An important goal to pursue with these exotic species is a broad program of nuclidic mass measurements. This is motivated by the observation that mass-model predictions generally diverge from one another in regions far from β-decay stability where well-measured masses are sparse or nonexistent. Stringent tests of mass models are therefore possible, and these can highlight important features in the mass models that affect the quality of their short-range and long-range extrapolation properties. Selection of systems to study can be guided, in part, by a desire to probe those regions where distinctions among mass models are most apparent and where exotic isotope yields will be optimal. Several examples will be presented to highlight future opportunities in this area.
Long-term outcomes after surgical management of chronic sixth nerve palsy

Background: In a multicenter prospective data collection study of chronic sixth cranial nerve palsy, we previously reported that the initial successful outcome rate was 39% after a single surgical intervention and 25% after surgery combined with botulinum toxin (Botox), using strict success criteria. We now report the longer term outcome of these patients. Methods: A previously described cohort of 31 patients in 18 centers who underwent strabismus surgery for a sixth nerve palsy of greater that 6 months duration was studied prospectively. Twenty-three had strabismus surgery alone and 8 surgery with Botox. Fourteen (45%) were complete palsies and 17 (55%) were incomplete. Seven (23%) were bilateral and 24 (77%) were unilateral. Outcome was classified at time of last follow-up, which was 5 weeks to 24 months postoperatively. Success was defined as no diplopia in primary position at distance fixation. Partial success was defined as no more than 10 PD esotropia despite diplopia. Results: Overall, 16 (52%) of the patients were classified as successes, 7 (23%) as partial successes, and 8 (25%) as failures. Three (43%) of the partial successes were using prism. Eight (35%) of the patients classified as successes or partial successes required 2 surgical procedures. Of all patients (10, 32%) who had a second surgery, only 2 (20%) remained failures. Conclusions: Despite our reported poor initial surgical success rate in chronic sixth nerve palsy, additional strabismus surgery, longer follow-up, and the use of prism or face turn for small residual deviations yields an overall surgical success rate of 75%. More than 1 surgical procedure and prism are often necessary in the management of chronic sixth nerve palsy. (J AAPOS 2002;6:283-8)
Topology of O-linked N-acetylglucosamine in murine lymphocytes

A unique form of protein glycosylation in which N-acetylglucosamine monosaccharides are O-glycosidically linked to serine or threonine residues (O-GlcNAc) was initially reported in studies that used purified bovine milk galactosyltransferase to exogenously probe living populations of murine lymphocytes. However, in this same study, detergent latency experiments surprisingly indicated that unlike other known forms of protein glycosylation, O-GlcNAc-modified proteins occur predominantly intracellularly. Since we now know that as little as 5% lysis could have accounted for the putative cell surface O-GlcNAc seen in these earlier studies, and also in the light of recent data on the subcellular localization of the O-GlcNAc glycosyltransferase(s), we decided to critically reexamine the topology and polypeptide distribution of O-GlcNAc in primary cultures of murine lymphocytes that were prepared using improved cell selection techniques that do not involve complement-mediated lysis for cell enrichment. We have also examined two well-characterized T cell hybridoma lines. Under these highly stringent conditions of cell viability, we were unable to detect O-GlcNAc bearing proteins on the cell surfaces of any of these cell types. Also, O-GlcNAc was found on a similar subset of proteins in all of the various lymphocyte cell types. These data suggest that O-GLcNAc is highly restricted to the cytoplasmic/nucleoplasmic compartment of the cell and is found on a similar subset of nuclear and cytoplasmic proteins in functionally different types of lymphocytes.
Looking up, forward, and back

This article comments on Agras' (1997) review of the past and future of behavior therapy in the context of its mission to help people improve their lives. It includes discussions of the success of behavior therapy in accomplishing the goal of helping people improve their lives, the cognitive behavioral split, the effect of managed care on behavior therapy, and the process and outcome of treatment for bulimia nervosa.
Theoretical determination of H2 ground‐state spectroscopic properties

Dunham coefficients aa are here determined for the H2 ground-state potential calculated by Kolos and Wolniewicz. From these aa Born-Oppenheimer spectroscopic constants YY are found. Adiabatically corrected YY are also calculated. An inaccuracy in a virial theorem result is described. From Kotos-Wolnie-wicz eigenenergies theoretical values of BB, DD, and HH are determined. The theoretical YY, BB, DD, and HH are compared with experimental values.
Kinetics of hydration-dehydration reactions considered as solid transformations

A mechanism is proposed for the dehydration-rehydration process in solid inorganic salts and model rate equations are derived and applied to the observed behavior of potassium carbonate. Quantitative expressions for the effect of pressure on the reaction rates are derived using basic principles from nucleation and heterogeneous phase transformation theory. Model equation predictions agree with experimental dehydration and rehydration rate data at all but extreme pressures. The basic rate equation is also used to interpret the data of Eckhardt and Flanagan (1964) for the effect of pressure on the dehydration of manganous formate dihydrate. The mechanism on which the model equations are based is also consistent with the observed effects of cycling and of high temperatur pretreatment on the K/sub 2/CO/sub 3/ rehydration rate.
The SPIDER fission fragment spectrometer for fission product yield measurements

Abstract The SPectrometer for Ion DEtermination in fission Research (SPIDER) has been developed for measuring mass yield distributions of fission products from spontaneous and neutron-induced fission. The 2 E –2 v method of measuring the kinetic energy ( E ) and velocity ( v ) of both outgoing fission products has been utilized, with the goal of measuring the mass of the fission products with an average resolution of 1 atomic mass unit (amu). The SPIDER instrument, consisting of detector components for time-of-flight, trajectory, and energy measurements, has been assembled and tested using 229 Th and 252 Cf radioactive decay sources. For commissioning, the fully assembled system measured fission products from spontaneous fission of 252 Cf. Individual measurement resolutions were met for time-of-flight (250 ps FWHM), spacial resolution (2 mm FHWM), and energy (92 keV FWHM for 8.376 MeV). Mass yield results measured from 252 Cf spontaneous fission products are reported from an E – v measurement.
Inhibition of the transcriptional activator protein nuclear factor κb prevents hemodynamic instability associated with the whole-body inflammatory response syndrome

Abstract Background: The transcription factor nuclear factor κB mediates the expression of a number of inflammatory genes involved in the whole-body inflammatory response to injury. We and others have found that dithiocarbamates specifically inhibit nuclear factor κB–mediated transcriptional activation in vitro. Objective: We hypothesized that inhibition of nuclear factor κB with dithiocarbamate treatment in vivo would attenuate interleukin 1 α–mediated hypotension in a rabbit model of systemic inflammation. Methods: New Zealand White rabbits were anesthetized and cannulated for continuous hemodynamic monitoring during 240 minutes. Rabbits were treated intravenously with either phosphate-buffered saline solution or 15 mg/kg of a dithiocarbamate, either pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate or proline dithiocarbamate, 60 minutes before the intravenous infusion of 5 μg/kg interleukin 1 α. Nuclear factor κB activation was evaluated by electrophoretic gel mobility shift assay of whole-tissue homogenates. Results: Infusion of interleukin 1 α resulted in significant decreases in mean arterial pressure and systemic vascular resistance, both of which were prevented by treatment with dithiocarbamate. Pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate induced a significant metabolic acidosis, whereas proline dithiocarbamate did not. Nuclear factor κB–binding activity was increased within heart, lung, and liver tissue 4 hours after interleukin 1 α infusion. Treatment with dithiocarbamate resulted in decreased nuclear factor κB activation in lung and liver tissue with respect to that in control animals. Conclusions: These results demonstrate that nuclear factor κB is systemically activated during whole-body inflammation and that inhibition of nuclear factor κB in vivo attenuates interleukin 1 α–induced hypotension. Nuclear factor κB thus represents a potential therapeutic target in the treatment of hemodynamic instability associated with the whole-body inflammatory response. (J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 1999;118:154-62)
Building a Collaborative Virtual Environment: A Programming Language Codesign Approach

Developing 3D virtual environments requires an advanced level of programming expertise. In many cases, working on such an application involves a wide range of programming activities such as 3D graphics, networking, user interfaces and audio programming. At the same time, such applications are usually real time and performance critical. The complexity of developing such an application comes from two sources: first, the programming language used in development with its strengths and also the limitations it imposes. The second is the requirements of the virtual environment itself, with its dynamics and size. Some languages are more suitable than others for any given application domain, but in general once a programming language is selected, the main focus is the application itself and not the language used. This paper presents an approach where a virtual environment (CVE) and its implementation language (Unicon) evolved together over the course of the project development, derived from emerging functional and performance requirements. The Unicon language was improved and new features were added over time to meet new demands and address the complexities that arose at the application level. This approach was combined with developing a framework to build virtual worlds with a social integrated development environment and to populate those worlds with non-player characters.
The Value of Critical Perspectives in Teacher Education.

Among the thorniest of issues that teacher educators deal with is the relationship between theory and practice. Moreover, there are a number of theoretical traditions on which we can draw to create new programs in teacher education or critique ongoing programs. This article discusses the range of theories that are available and their characteristics and orientations. Though critical theory has not been widely used in teacher education, it is valuable in helping us see the connections between commonsense practices in schools and institutions and ideologies in the wider society. Critical theory promises both critique and new directions, as it focuses on issues related to social justice, equality, and democratic values. An example of what a teacher education program that is based in critical theory might look like is included.
Familial Clustering of Autoimmune Disorders and Evaluation of Medical Risk Factors in Autism

Autism is an age-dependent neurologic disorder that is often associated with autoimmune disorders in the patients' relatives. To evaluate the frequency of autoimmune disorders, as well as various prenatal and postnatal events in autism, we surveyed the families of 61 autistic patients and 46 healthy controls using questionnaires. The mean number of autoimmune disorders was greater in families with autism; 46% had two or more members with autoimmune disorders. As the number of family members with autoimmune disorders increased from one to three, the risk of autism was greater, with an odds ratio that increased from 1.9 to 5.5, respectively. In mothers and first-degree relatives of autistic children, there were more autoimmune disorders (16% and 21%) as compared to controls (2% and 4%), with odds ratios of 8.8 and 6.0, respectively. The most common autoimmune disorders in both groups were type 1 diabetes, adult rheumatoid arthritis, hypothyroidism, and systemic lupus erythematosus. Forty-six percent of the autism group reported having relatives with rheumatoid diseases, as compared to 26% of the controls. Prenatal maternal urinary tract, upper respiratory, and vaginal infections; asphyxia; prematurity, and seizures were more common in the autistic group, although the differences were not significant. Thirty-nine percent of the controls, but only 11% of the autistic, group, reported allergies. An increased number of autoimmune disorders suggests that in some families with autism, immune dysfunction could interact with various environmental factors to play a role in autism pathogenesis.
Planning active cannula configurations through tubular anatomy

Medical procedures such as lung biopsy and brachytherapy require maneuvering through tubular structures such as the trachea and bronchi to reach clinical targets. We introduce a new method to plan configurations for active cannulas, medical devices composed of thin, pre-curved, telescoping lumens that are capable of following controlled, curved paths through open or liquid-filled cavities. Planning optimal configurations for these devices is challenging due to their complex kinematics, which involve both beam mechanics and space curves. In this paper, we propose an optimization-based planning algorithm that computes active cannula configurations through tubular structures that reach specified targets. Given the target location, the start position and orientation, and a geometric representation of the physical environment extracted from pre-procedure medical images, the planner optimizes insertion length and orientation angle of each lumen of the active cannula. The planner models active cannula kinematics using a physically-based simulation that incorporates beam mechanics and minimizes energy. The algorithm typically computes plans in less than 2 minutes on a standard PC. We apply the method in simulation to anatomy extracted from a human CT scan and demonstrate configurations for a 5-lumen active cannula that maneuver it through the bronchi to targets in the lung.
Metastasizing chordoma in early childhood: a pathological and immunohistochemical study with review of the literature.

A 2½-year-old female with a sphenooccipital-vertebral chordoma presented with neck pain, torticollis, fever, a lytic lesion of C2 vertebra, and bilateral nodular infiltrates in the lung. The lung biopsy revealed multiple tumor emboli by an enigmatic epithelioid-appearing neoplasm with immunohistochemical staining for vimentin, cytokeratin, and epithelial membrane antigen. A thorough roentgenographic evaluation disclosed a destructive, prepontine mass in the region of the clivus, erosion of the odontoid process, and compression of the cervical spinal cord. The patient died after a clinical course of 3 months. We identified 16 additional cases of metastasizing chordomas in the pediatric-age population; this case is the first to our knowledge with pathologically documented pulmonary metastasis at presentation.
An effective mobilization strategy for lymphoma patients after failed upfront mobilization with plerixafor.

In an otherwise eligible patient, inadequate mobilization of PBSCs is a limiting factor to proceeding with an auto-ASCT. In such situations, plerixafor is commonly added to improve PBSC collection yields along with cytokine (G-CSF alone) or chemomobilization (chemotherapy+G-CSF). Individually, both strategies are proven to be safe and effective. Here we report six patients who underwent successful mobilization with combination chemomobilization plus plerixafor after upfront failure of cytokine mobilization plus plerixafor. The median CD34+ cell yield after chemomobilization was 2.48 × 106/kg (range 0.99–8.49) after receiving one to two doses of plerixafor. All patients subsequently underwent ASCT without major unforeseen toxicities and engrafted successfully. No significant delays in time to neutrophil recovery were observed. Our experience highlights the safety and effectiveness of chemomobilization with plerixafor after G-CSF plus plerixafor (G+P) failure and suggests this is a viable salvage strategy after initial failed G+P mobilization.
Performance of a 2D-CD nonaxisymmetric exhaust nozzle on a turbojet engine at altitude

Baseline thrust and cooling data obtained with a 2D-CD versatile research exhaust nozzle mounted on a turbojet engine in an altitude chamber are presented. The tests covered a range of nozzle pressure ratios, nozzle pressure ratios, nozzle throat areas, and internal expansion area ratios. The thrust data obtained show good agreement with theory and scale model results after correcting the data for leakage and bypass cooling flows. Additional work is needed to improve predictability of cooling performance.
An indium tin oxide electrode modified with gold nanorods for use in potential-controlled surface plasmon resonance studies

The modification of electrodes with gold nanoparticles results in an increased electrode surface area, enhanced mass transport, and improved catalytic properties. We have extended this approach to indium tin oxide (ITO) electrodes to obtain optically transparent gold nanorod-modified electrodes which display enhanced electrochemical capabilities and have the additional advantage of showing a tunable surface plasmon resonance. The procedures for attaining high surface coverage (15 gold nanorods per square µm) of such electrodes were optimized, and the potential-dependent surface plasmon resonance was studied under controlled electrical potential. In an exemplary sensor application, we demonstrate the detection of mercury via potential-dependent formation of an Au-Hg amalgam.
Preservation of glucuronidation in carbon tetrachloride-induced acute liver injury in the rat.

Abstract The influence of carbon tetrachloride on several routes of drug metabolism has been investigated in the rat in vivo , in isolated perfused livers, and in hepatic microsomal preparations to evaluate the hypothesis that hepatic glucuronyl transferase activity is preserved when mixed-function oxidase activity is impaired by this hepatotoxin. Impaired oxidative metabolism after acute administration of carbon tetrachloride was confirmed in vivo by a 65 per cent reduction in the rate of elimination of 14 CO 2 in breath after [ 14 C]aminopyrine administration and a 58 per cent reduction in the clearance of lorazepam in the whole animal. In the isolated perfused livers of control rats, glucuronide metabolism of lorazepam accounted for 26 per cent of its overall elimination; thus, by inference, oxidative metabolism accounted for the remainder. Carbon tetrachloride pretreatment resulted in a 63 per cent reduction in total lorazepam clearance. In microsomal preparations, cytochrome P-450 concentration, cytochrome P-450 reductase activity, and activities of o -demethylation of p -nitroanisole and hydroxylation of aniline were reduced by 63, 32, 85 and 95 per cent, respectively, after exposure to carbon tetrachloride. In contrast, in the carbon tetrachloride-damage isolated perfused liver the proportion of lorazepam conjugated to lorazepam glucuronide increased from 26 to 43 per cent of the dose administered. Furthermore, in vitro microsomal glucuronidation of o -aminophenol was not decreased by carbon tetrachloride pretreatment, while glucuronidation of p -nitrophenol actually increased significantly by 49 per cent. Solubilization of microsomes with Triton X-100 resulted in a 10.4-fold increase in glucuronyl transferase activity in control microsomes, but in only a 5.7-fold increase in microsomes from carbon tetrachloride-treated rats. This suggests that carbon tetrachloride enhanced basal glucuronidating activity but decreased the total amount of enzymes present. These overall results suggest that microsomal glucuronidation activity is spared in an experimental liver injury in which oxidative metabolism is impaired.
Effects of rotation on heat transfer, fluid flow and interfaces in normal gravity floating-zone crystal growth

Abstract Computer simulation was conducted to study heat transfer and fluid flow in normal gravity floating-zone crystal growth of NaNO 3 with: (1) fast feed/crystal counterrotation and (2) fast single rotation of the feed or crystal. Natural convection, thermocapillary convection and forced convection were considered. The shapes of the melt/gas, melt/crystal and melt/feed interfaces were calculated and compared with those observed during crystal growth. The effects of key operating parameters were discussed, including the mode and speed of rotation, growth rate, heat input and growth direction.
Effects of graded oxygen tension on adenosine release by renal medullary and thick ascending limb suspensions.

Effects of graded oxygen tension on adenosine release by renal medullary and thick ascending limb suspensions. Adenosine is released from renal cells, and extracellular adenosine may influence the effects of ischemia on medullary tubule segments by altering ion transport or renal hemodynamics. While adenosine release and excretion are enhanced during renal ischemia, the specific sites of renal adenosine production have not been completely elucidated. In the present study, extracellular adenosine concentrations in suspensions of renal outer medulla and thick ascending limb segments were quantitated by reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography. Media from other medullary (OM) suspensions incubated for 8 and 15 minutes at 0% oxygen contained significantly greater amounts of adenosine (1.404 ± 0.21 and 2.034 ± 0.27 ng/µg protein, respectively), when compared to values obtained from media of suspensions incubated for equivalent periods under non-hypoxic conditions (8, 20, and 95% oxygen), 0.78 ± 0.05 (8 min) and 1.37 ± 0.21 ng/µg protein (15 min). Similarly, adenosine release was greater in medullary thick ascending limb (mTAL) suspensions incubated for 8 minutes at 0% versus 8% oxygen (0.81 ± 0.17 vs. 0.20 ± 0.12 ng/µg protein, respectively). Moreover, the observed increase in adenosine release by thick ascending limbs at 0% oxygen could be inhibited completely by either furosemide or ouabain. These studies demonstrate that: 1) the renal medulla and medullary thick ascending limb are sites of adenosine release; 2) adenosine release by the mTAL is enhanced significantly during hypoxic conditions; and 3) the increased release of adenosine during hypoxia appears to be related to ion transport and oxidative metabolism, as the increased release was prevented by two disparate inhibitors of transport in this segment.
John Updike's Prose Style: Definition at the Periphery of Meaning

(1989). John Updike's Prose Style: Definition at the Periphery of Meaning. Critique: Studies in Contemporary Fiction: Vol. 30, No. 4, pp. 277-290.
Surfaces of Revolution in Four Dimensions

1. R. Baer, Abelian groups without elements of finite order, Duke Math. J. 3 (1937), 68-122. 2. R. A. Beaumont and R. S. Pierce, Torsion-free groups of rank two, Mem. Amer. Math. Soc 38 (1961), 41 pp. 3. L. Fuchs, Abelian Groups, Publishing House of the Hungarian Acad. Sciences, Budapest, 1958. 4. , Infinite Abelian Groups II, Academic Press, New York, 1973. 5. I. Macdonald, The Theory of Groups, Robert E. Krieger Publishing Company, Florida, 1988. 6. 0. Mutzbauer, Klassifizierung torsionsfreier abelscher Gruppen des Ranges 2, Rend. Sem. Mat. Univ. Padova 55 (1976), 195-208.
Effect of Pore Distribution on Microstructure Development: III, Model Experiments

Model experiments have been conducted on a series of alumina samples in which the microstructures have been tailored to conform to the classical configuratins depicted in the models of final-stage sintering. Simultaneous measurements of sintered density, grain size, pore number density, and pore size distribution were made as a function of sintering time at constant temperature (1850°C). The data supported a model of grain-boundary-diffusion-controlled densification and surface-diffusion-controlled grain growth. An atom flux equation for grain-boundary diffusion transport was deduced from the data. The kinetics analysis highlights the importance of incorporating the number of pores per grain as an independent variable in mechanistic studies of final-stage sintering. The number of pores per unit volume was identified as a critical factor influencing densification kinetics. The effect of pore distribution on microstructure development was simulated for comparison with the data obtained from the model experiments.
Transition metal and organic functionalization of hollow zeolite structures

Hollow zeolites with the MFI framework were selectively functionalized with transition metals, such as copper and vanadium, and organosilanes, such as aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES). The resulting hollow zeolite structures consist of a shell that has the characteristic porosity and ion-exchange properties of the parent zeolite and interior and exterior surfaces that are functionalized. In this study, strategies for selectively functionalizing the interior of the hollow zeolite structures and the zeolite shell are described as a method for tailoring the chemical properties of these materials. The first strategy involves functionalization of the mesoporous silica template with copper, vanadium and APTES in order to prepare hollow zeolite structures with encapsulated transition metals or organic functional groups. The second strategy involves post-synthesis modification of the zeolite hollow structures through transition metal ion-exchange of the aluminosilicate hollow shell. The resulting materials were extensively characterized by scanning electron microscopy, powder-X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, BET adsorption isotherms, electron paramagnetic resonance, and solid-state magic angle spinning NMR. The encapsulated transition metal ZSM-5 tubes exhibited similar transition metal local electronic environments but lower transition metal incorporation relative to the exchanged ZSM-5 tubes.
Forest Restoration Paradigms

An estimated 2 billion ha of forests are degraded globally and global change suggests even greater need for forest restoration. Four forest restoration paradigms are identified and discussed: revegetation, ecological restoration, functional restoration, and forest landscape restoration. Restoration is examined in terms of a degraded starting point and an ending point of an idealized natural forest. Global change, climate variability, biotechnology, and synthetic biology pose significant challenges to current restoration paradigms, underscoring the importance of clearly defined goals focused on functional ecosystems. Public debate is needed on acceptable goals; one role for science is to inform and help frame the debate and describe feasibility and probable consequences.
Prescribing Patterns and Retreatment Rates in Patients with Otitis Media

To explore factors leading to the treatment of acute-onset otitis media (OM) and determine the effect of antibiotic choice on retreatment rates in a paediatric Medicaid population. A retrospective cohort review of Ohio Medicaid medical and prescription claims. The study population included continuously enrolled children 7 years of age or younger with a new onset diagnosis of acute nonsuppurative or suppu-rative OM during a 3-month period and followed for 30 days post-diagnosis. Claims were screened for the presence of other upper respiratory infections (URI) and chronic OM. Primary outcome measures included antibiotic treatment rates, likelihood of receiving amoxicillin as initial treatment, and retreatment, and were modelled using logistic regression analysis. Over 75% of the 9177 cases were treated empirically with an antibiotic prescription. The most commonly prescribed antibiotic was amoxicillin. African-American children [confidence interval for adjusted odds (CI) 1.04–1.43], children with a suppurative diagnosis (CI 1.83–2.24), and those with a concurrent URI (CI 1.36–1.86) were more likely to receive an antibiotic. Furthermore, African-American (CI 1.46–1.95) and Hispanic children (CI 1.04–2.18) were more likely to receive amoxicillin. Retreatment rates declined with age (CI 0.89–0.93) and were lower for African-Americans (CI 0.61–0.83) and children who received a sulfa drug (CI 0.64–0.95) or amoxicillin (CI 0.62–0.79). The decision to use antibiotics in the treatment of OM was primarily influenced by the type of OM diagnosis. Amoxicillin and sulfa drugs were the most effective agents. These results were consistent with and strongly supported the United States national guidelines to avoid empirical antibiotic treatment or to choose narrow-spectrum agents like amoxicillin for initial treatment of acuteonset OM.
Attitude similarity and interpersonal attraction in communication processes: In pursuit of an ephemeral influence

The present study focuses on a conception of the attitude similarity‐attraction relationship based on communication processes. It extends the work of Sunnafrank and Miller on the similarity‐attraction relationship in initial interactions to include later conversational stages involving attitudinal discussions. It is suggested that past studies of this relationship in early stages of acquaintanceship have employed highly atypical communicative processes in examining the influence of attitudinal discussions on attraction producing results of questionable generalizability. The results of this research indicate that the positive similarity‐attraction relationship observed in most past studies will not generalize to normal communicative relationships in which attitudinal discussions take place when those discussions occur in the context of more typical communicative processes. Ramifications of this finding for the conventional scientific wisdom regarding the attitude similarity‐attraction relationship are disc...
Zebrafish fat-free is required for intestinal lipid absorption and Golgi apparatus structure

The zebrafish fat-free (ffr) mutation was identified in a physiological screen for genes that regulate lipid metabolism. ffr mutant larvae are morphologically indistinguishable from wild-type sibling larvae, but their absorption of fluorescent lipids is severely impaired. Through positional cloning, we have identified a causative mutation in a highly conserved and ubiquitously expressed gene within the ffr locus. The Ffr protein contains a Dor-1 like domain typical of oligomeric Golgi complex (COG) gene, cog8. Golgi complex ultrastructure is disrupted in the ffr digestive tract. Consistent with a possible role in COG-mediated Golgi function, wild-type Ffr-GFP and COG8-mRFP fusion proteins partially colocalize in zebrafish blastomeres. Enterocyte retention of an endosomal lipid marker in ffr larvae support the idea that altered vesicle trafficking contributes to the ffr mutant defect. These data indicate that ffr is required for both Golgi structure and vesicular trafficking, and ultimately lipid transport.
On the inhibition of myosin-ATPase by adenosine diphosphate.

Abstract The myosin ATP-ase us inhibited by ADP competitively. The inhibitation constant is 33 times the Michaelis constant. This small amount of inhibition explains the product versus time curve of the ATP hydrolysis and is confirmed by this curve. The association constant of CaAdp was determined as 1050. In order to establish true ADP inhibitiion Ca has to be in excess, so that Ca chelation by ADP does not affect Ca available to the myosin.
The effect of substituents on the hydrolysis of phenyl acetate by wheat germ lipase.

Abstract 1. 1. Substituted phenyl acetates have been studied as substrates for wheat germ lipase. 2. 2. The enzymatically catalyzed hydrolysis of these substrates follows the usual Michaelis-Menten formulation. 3. 3. A mechanism for the enzymatic hydrolysis is proposed, and observed k3E0 (Vmax) values and calculated k1E0 values are correlated with this mechanism.
Hype and weight.

(1991). Hype and weight. Medical Anthropology: Vol. 13, “Bigger is Better?” Biocultural Dynamics of Body Shape, pp. 249-284.
Pushing in labor: performance and not endurance.

Abstract Objective: It is believed that delivery is faster if women are instructed to voluntarily bear down in synchrony with their uterine contractions. Confronted by the large variance in the duration of the second stage of labor, many clinicians attribute a "fast" or a "short" expulsion time solely to the patient's willingness to cooperate or to the strength of epidural anesthesia if it is a factor. Yet, knowledge of pushing performance and the factors affecting it remain limited. We investigated the maternal, fetal, and labor characteristics that influence the maternal "pushing performance" and sought to design a predictive index that prospectively identified "high" versus "low" pushing performers. Study Design: Intrauterine pressure (IP) was prospectively measured during the second stage of labor in 52 women recruited at one North American hospital. Recordings were begun after documentation of full cervical dilatation and descent of the fetal head to +2 station (on a −3/+3 scale). Each woman acted as her own control, received epidural anesthesia, and was alert and responsive throughout the study. Pushing (closed glottis technique) was performed in a standardized fashion. Multivariate analysis with linear regression was applied to identify significant associations between maternal, fetal, or labor characteristics as the independent variables and the percent increase in IP consequent to active pushing as the dependent variable. Results: Women in labor increase their IP 62% by actively pushing with a contraction during the second stage. A scattergram of the individual percent increase above the baseline IP integral revealed that for some women, pushing more readily increased their IP than it did for others (range, 0% to 192%). The percent increase was best calculated by a linear combination of myometrial thickness, estimated fetal weight, the maternal body mass index, and the obstetric need for labor augmentation ( P =.007, r = 0.52, power=0.975). A 66% change in IP provided the best separation between high and low pushing performance. Myometrial thickness provided the single strongest contribution to the regression equation's predictive value ( P =.01, r = −0.36). A myometrial thickness of 6 mm had a specificity of 88% (but only 53% sensitivity) for the identification of women able to increase their IP by 66% over baseline. Conclusions: In women in labor who have received epidural anesthesia, the efficiency with which maternal expulsive efforts are converted into increased IP is directly related to the patient's body mass index but inversely related to myometrial thickness, the sonographic estimate of fetal weight, and the need for labor augmentation. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2002;186:1339-44.)
Comparison of sources of a phosphorylated intermediate in transport ATPase

Abstract 1. 1. The relationship between the enzymatic activity and the phosphorylated intermediate of the (Na + + K + )-dependent ATPase (EC 3.1.6.3) from 11 species and 6 tissues was tested. 2. 2. The range in specific activity of the ATPase was more than 400-fold, yet the range in the ratio of the (Na + + K + )-ATPase activity to the phosphorylated intermediate was only 2-fold, and the range in the ratio of the (K + )-acylphosphatase (EC 3.6.1.7) activity of the (Na + + K + )-ATPase activity was also only 2-fold. 3. 3. The (Na + + K + )-ATPase of all sources tested required Na + for phosphorylation and its dephosphorylation was greatly accelerated in the presence of K + . 4. 4. The turnover of the phosphorylated enzyme at 0° in the absence of K + , estimated by washout of 32 P, showed a range of 3-fold. 5. 5. The phosphorylated enzymes yielded identical 32 P-labeled peptides after digestion with pepsin (EC 3.4.4.1) or pronase and electrophoresis. The 32 P-labeled peptides of the (Na + + K + )-ATPase of all sources tested were sensitive to hydroxylamine. 6. 6. The results indicate that the mechanism of the (Na + + K + )-dependent ATPase is likely to be similar in most animal species and tissues.
Dependence of the superconducting transition temperature of HgBa2CuO4+δ on hydrostatic pressure

Abstract The real χ′ and imaginary χ″ components of the AC susceptibility for a ceramic sample of superconducting HgBa2CuO4+δ have been measured at HAC=0.1 Oe over the temperature range 80–300 K under purely hydrostatic pressure conditions. Upon cooling, a slight but sharp decrease in slope dχ′/dT occurs at the “upper” transition temperature, T u c ⋍98 K , which we attribute to the onset of superconductivity in a small volume (≁3%) of the sample which is nearly optimally doped. Below the “lower” transition temperature, T 1 c ⋍95 K , χ′(T) drops steeply, approaching for T d T c / d P⋍+1.75±0.1 K/GPa which is independent of whether the pressure is changed at room temperature or 80 K. These experiments allow us to speculate that the superconducting transition for optimally doped HgBa2CuO4+δ at ambient pressure probably lies near 98 K.
A triple-moment hail bulk microphysics scheme. Part II: Verification and comparison with two-moment bulk microphysics

Abstract Microphysical parameterizations in numerical cloud models continue to grow in complexity as our capability to represent microphysical processes increases owing to greater knowledge of these processes as well as advances in computing power. In Part I of this study, a new triple-moment bulk hail microphysics scheme (3MHAIL) that predicts the spectral shape parameter of the hail size distribution was presented and evaluated against lower order-moment schemes. In this paper, the 3MHAIL scheme is verified in simulations of a well-observed supercell storm that occurred over northwest Kansas on 29 June 2000 during the Severe Thunderstorm and Electrification and Precipitation Study (STEPS). Comparisons of the simulation results with the observations for this case, as well as with results of simulations using two different two-moment (2M) configurations of the RAMS microphysics schemes, suggest a significant improvement of the simulated storm structure and evolution is achieved with the 3MHAIL scheme. The generation of large hail and subsequent fallout in the simulation using 3MHAIL microphysics show particularly good agreement with surface hail reports for this storm as well as with previous studies of hail-producing supercell storms. On the other hand, the simulation with 2M microphysics produces only small hail aloft and virtually no hail at the surface, whereas a 2M version of the 3MHAIL scheme (with a fixed spectral shape parameter) produces unrealistically high amounts of large hail at low levels as a result of artificial shifts in the hail size spectra towards larger diameter hail during the melting process.
Adverse Events Associated With Ketamine for Procedural Sedation in Adults

Study Objectives: Ketamine is widely used as a procedural sedation agent in pediatrics, where its safety and efficacy are supported by numerous studies. Emergency physicians use ketamine infrequently in adults, as it is believed to have a more significant side effect profile in this population. However, adult data on ketamine use in the emergency medicine literature are sparse. Our objective was to determine ketamine's adverse effect profile in adults when used for procedural sedation. Methods: We performed a literature review based on adverse effect research methodology recommendations. PubMed, EMBASE, TOXNET, and a variety of specialized databases were queried without regard to publication date or language. Experts were contacted to locate additional data. Inclusion criteria included adult study; ketamine used to facilitate the performance of painful procedures; dose of at least 1 mg/kg intravenous or at least 2 mg/kg intramuscular; original data and adverse events reported; spontaneously breathing patient, and no continuous cotherapies. Studies that met inclusion criteria were abstracted onto structured forms and their results qualitatively summarized. Results: Of the 5512 unique citations that were evaluated, 87 met criteria for inclusion. Most studies were performed in the 1970s and published in the anesthesia literature. Contexts, end points, and methodological quality varied widely across studies. Ketamine reliably produces conditions that facilitate the performance of painful procedures. Pharyngeal reflexes are generally preserved and cardiovascular tone stimulated, including a rise in blood pressure and myocardial oxygen demand. Laryngospasm and airway obstruction are reported, and though ketamine is a respiratory stimulant, a brief period of apnea around the time of injection is common. Reports of significant cardiorespiratory adverse events are rare, despite ketamine's frequent use in austere, poorly monitored settings. Dysphoric emergence phenomena occur in 10% to 20% of cases; sedating medications are effective in preventing and managing these reactions. Conclusion: When ketamine is used for procedural sedation in adults, emergence phenomena occur in 10% to 20% of patients. Although providers must be prepared to recognize and manage airway obstruction, cardiorespiratory adverse events are rare and typically do not affect outcomes.
Umbilical Herniorrhapy in Cirrhosis: Improved Outcomes with Elective Repair

Objective This study was undertaken to examine the effect of cirrhosis on elective and emergent umbilical herniorrhapy outcomes.
In vitro translation of mushroom tyrosinase.

Summary Mushroom tyrosinase was purified and antibodies prepared against the holo enzyme and a protein of 26,000 daltons. Both antibodies recognized the large subunit of the enzyme but only one recognized the 26,000 dalton protein. Poly A mRNA was isolated from mushrooms, translated in vitro, and a 41,000 dalton protein immunoprecipitated from the translation mix with either antibody. This 41,000 dalton protein presumably corresponds to the large subunit of the holoenzyme. Antibodies against the holoenzyme also immunprecipitated another translation product with a molecular weight of 15,000 daltons corresponding to the small subunit of the holoenzyme. These results suggest that each subunit may be coded for by different genes and undergo posttranslational processing.