cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Decay μ → e γ in models with neutral heavy leptons

We explore possible muon-number-nonconserving processes in gauge theories in which the right-handed muon and electron appear along with neutral heavy leptons in $\mathrm{SU}(2)\ensuremath{\bigotimes}\mathrm{U}(1)$ doublets. The same mechanism which gives a mass to the electron and muon is expected to mix the left-handed neutral leptons with the neutrinos. In the simplest case, this leads to a rate for $\ensuremath{\mu}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}e\ensuremath{\gamma}$ 25 times larger than previously calculated in such models. Other phenomenological consequences of these theories are discussed. Formulas are given for the magnetic dipole transition matrix element in general gauge theories, and these are used to derive general conditions for suppression of $\ensuremath{\mu}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}e\ensuremath{\gamma}$ to acceptable levels.
Global U.S. Troop Deployment, 1950-2005

This report provides and analyzes the first comprehensive time series data on U.S. troop deployments by year and country, from 1950 to 2005, including the full dataset. On average, 23 percent of all U.S. servicemen were stationed on foreign soil during 1950-2005. Roughly 386,000 troops were stationed overseas in 2005 compared to an average of 535,540 during 1950-2000. Deployments have ranged from a high of 1,082,777 troops in 1968 to a low of 206,002 in 1999. There were 118.82 million U.S. military billets during 1950-2000 (with "billet" defined as one serviceman for one year). Of that total, 27.3 million billets were overseas assignments. Since 1950, 54 countries have hosted at least 1,000 American troops.
LANDSCAPE‐LEVEL MODEL TO PREDICT SPAWNING HABITAT FOR LOWER COLUMBIA RIVER FALL CHINOOK SALMON (ONCORHYNCHUS TSHAWYTSCHA)

We developed an intrinsic potential (IP) model to estimate the potential of streams to provide habitat for spawning fall Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) in the Lower Columbia River evolutionarily significant unit. This evolutionarily significant unit is a threatened species, and both fish abundance and distribution are reduced from historical levels. The IP model focuses on geomorphic conditions that lead to the development of a habitat that fish use and includes three geomorphic channel parameters: confinement, width and gradient. We found that the amount of potential habitat for each population does not correlate with current, depressed, total population abundance. However, reaches currently used by spawners have high IP, and IP model results correlate well with results from the complex Ecosystem Diagnosis and Treatment model. A disproportionately large amount of habitat with the best potential is currently inaccessible to fish because of anthropogenic barriers. Sensitivity analyses indicate that uncertainty in the relationship between channel width and habitat suitability has the largest influence on model results and that model form influences model results more for some populations than for others. Published in 2011 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation of statistical methods for safety signal detection: a simulation study

Proactive evaluation of drug safety with systematic screening and detection is critical to protect patients' safety and important in regulatory approval of new drug indications and postmarketing communications and label renewals. In recent years, quite a few statistical methodologies have been developed to better evaluate drug safety through the life cycle of the product development. The statistical methods for flagging safety signals have been developed in two major areas – one for data collected from spontaneous reporting system, mostly in the postmarketing area, and the other for data from clinical trials. To our knowledge, the methods developed for one area have not been applied to the other one so far. In this article, we propose to utilize all such methods for flagging safety signals in both areas regardless of which specific area they were originally developed for. Therefore, we selected eight typical methods, that is, proportional reporting ratios, reporting odds ratios, the maximum likelihood ratio test, Bayesian confidence propagation neural network method, chi-square test for rates comparison, Benjamini and Hochberg procedure, new double false discovery rate control procedure, and Bayesian hierarchical mixture model for systematic comparison through simulations. The Benjamini and Hochberg procedure and new double false discovery rate control procedure perform best overall in terms of sensitivity and false discovery rate. The likelihood ratio test also performs well when the sample sizes are large. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The heritability of gender identity disorder in a child and adolescent twin sample

The heritability and prevalence of the gender identity disorder (GID) was examined, as well as its comorbidity with separation anxiety and depression, in a nonretrospective study of child and adolescent twins. The parents of 314 twins (ages 4–17 years; 96 monozygotic pairs [MZ] and 61 dizygotic [DZ] pairs) completed the Coolidge Personality and Neuropsychological Inventory (CPNI) containing a six-item DSM-IV-based GID scale. Prevalence of clinically significant GID symptomatology in the twin sample was estimated to be 2.3%. Univariate model fitting analyses were conducted using an ordinal transformation of the GID scale. The model that best described the data included a significant additive genetic component accounting for 62% of the variance and a nonshared environmental component accounting for the remaining 38% of the variance. Results suggested no heterogeneity in the parameter estimates resulting from age. The correlation between GID and depression was modest, but significant (r = .20; P .05). Overall, the results support the hypothesis that there is a strong heritable component to GID. The findings may also imply that gender identity may be much less a matter of choice and much more a matter of biology.
Topic modeling for personalized recommendation of volatile items

One of the major strengths of probabilistic topic modeling is the ability to reveal hidden relations via the analysis of co-occurrence patterns on dyadic observations, such as document-term pairs. However, in many practical settings, the extreme sparsity and volatility of co-occurrence patterns within the data, when the majority of terms appear in a single document, limits the applicability of topic models. In this paper, we propose an efficient topic modeling framework in the presence of volatile dyadic observations when direct topic modeling is infeasible. We show both theoretically and empirically that often-available unstructured and semantically-rich meta-data can serve as a link between dyadic sets, and can allow accurate and efficient inference. Our approach is general and can work with most latent variable models, which rely on stable dyadic data, such as pLSI, LDA, and GaP. Using transactional data from a major e-commerce site, we demonstrate the effectiveness as well as the applicability of our method in a personalized recommendation system for volatile items. Our experiments show that the proposed learning method outperforms the traditional LDA by capturing more persistent relations between dyadic sets of wide and practical significance.
Copper Deficiency Reduces Interleukin-2 (IL-2) Production and IL-2 mRNA in Human T-Lymphocytes

Although dietary copper (Cu) deficiency has been associated with decreased production of interleukin-2 (IL-2) by activated splenic mononuclear cells in rodent models, the basis for this relationship and its relevance for humans remain unknown. To address these matters, we have developed an in vitro model of cellular copper deficiency by treating Jurkat, a human T-lymphocyte cell line, with low concentrations of 2,3,2-tetraamine (2,3,2-tet), a high affinity copper chelator. Exposure to 5-20 micromol/L 2,3,2-tet for 35 h decreased cell copper and the activity of Cu,Zn-superoxide dismutase (Cu,Zn-SOD) by 30-40% and IL-2 production by 60-70% in cultures activated with phytohemagglutinin and phorbol myristate acetate. Similarly, IL-2 mRNA levels were 40-70% lower in chelator-treated cells than in untreated cells at 3-12 h after activation. In contrast, chelator treatment had no significant effect on cell viability, growth, protein synthesis or mitochondrial activity. The presence of a slight molar excess of copper, but not zinc or iron, during exposure to 2,3,2-tet prevented the chelator-induced decrease in Cu,Zn-SOD activity and the reductions in IL-2 mRNA and bioactivity. Moreover, binding of diferric transferrin (Tf) and cellular uptake of Tf-59Fe by Jurkat cells were not increased by 2,3,2-tet, indicating that chelator-treated cells were not iron deficient. Finally, incubation of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) with 2,3,2-tet decreased mitogen-induced IL-2 production by 50% compared with untreated controls. These data indicate that a decline in copper status decreases IL-2 production by activated human T-cells due to reduced synthesis and/or stability of IL-2 mRNA.
RigMesh: automatic rigging for part-based shape modeling and deformation

The creation of a 3D model is only the first stage of the 3D character animation pipeline. Once a model has been created, and before it can be animated, it must be rigged. Manual rigging is laborious, and automatic rigging approaches are far from real-time and do not allow for incremental updates. This is a hindrance in the real world, where the shape of a model is often revised after rigging has been performed. In this paper, we introduce algorithms and a user-interface for sketch-based 3D modeling that unify the modeling and rigging stages of the 3D character animation pipeline. Our algorithms create a rig for each sketched part in real-time, and update the rig as parts are merged or cut. As a result, users can freely pose and animate their shapes and characters while rapidly iterating on the base shape. The rigs are compatible with the state-of-the-art character animation pipeline; they consist of a low-dimensional skeleton along with skin weights identifying the surface with bones of the skeleton.
Models for Interactions between Ionic Surfactants and Nonsurface-Active Ions in Foam Fractionation Processes

Abstract Interactions are analyzed between an ionic surfactant and nonsurface-active ions (colligends) of opposite charge being separated in foam fractionations. Surfactant selectivity for competing colligends is determined in terms of models based on surfactant—colligend ion pair formation in the feed solution to a foam fractionation unit, based on colligend-surfactant counterion exchange at the gas-solution, bubble interfaces, and based on surface exchange coupled with ion pair formation in the bulk solution. Accurate, continuous-flow, single-equilibrium-stage foam fractionation data for NO− 3, BrO− 3, CIO− 3, and I−, each versus Br−, the counterion of the ethylhexadecyldimethylammonium cation, are used to discriminate among the models. Based on a detailed statistical analysis of the selectivity coefficients determined by two interaction models for each of the four colligends, the hypothesis of colligend-counterion exchange at the gas-solution interface is shown to be valid and that of solution ion pair...
The impact of wound age on the infection rate of simple lacerations repaired in the emergency department

Abstract Background The influence of wound age on the risk of infection in simple lacerations repaired in the emergency department (ED) has not been well studied. It has traditionally been taught that there is a “golden period” beyond which lacerations are at higher risk of infection and therefore should not be closed primarily. The proposed cutoff for this golden period has been highly variable (3–24 h in surgical textbooks). Our objective is to answer the following research question: are wounds closed via primary repair after the golden period at increased risk for infection? Methods We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and other databases as well as bibliographies of relevant articles. We included studies that enrolled ED patients with lacerations repaired by primary closure. Exclusion: (1) delayed primary repair or secondary closure, (2) wounds requiring intra-operative repair, skin graft, drains, or extensive debridement, and (3) grossly contaminated or infected at presentation. We compared the outcome of wound infection in two groups of early versus delayed presentations (based on the cut-offs selected by the original articles). We used “Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation” (GRADE) criteria to assess the quality of the included trials. Results 418 studies were identified. Four trials enrolling 3724 patients in aggregate met our inclusion/exclusion criteria. The overall quality of evidence was low. The infection rate in the wounds that presented with delay ranged from 1.4% to 32%. One study with the smallest sample size (only 19 delayed wounds), which only enrolled lacerations to hand and forearm, showed higher rate of infection in patients with delayed (older than 12 h) wounds (relative risk of infection: 4.8, 95% confidence interval, 1.9–12.0). The infection rate in delayed wound groups in the remaining three studies was not significantly different. Conclusion The existing evidence does not support the existence of a golden period nor does it support the role of wound age on infection rate in simple lacerations.
Dorsal medullary oxytocin, vasopressin, oxytocin antagonist, and TRH effects on gastric acid secretion and heart rate.

Abstract Injections of oxytocin and TRH (11 picomoles), centered on the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus, substantially increased gastric acid secretion. Additionally, oxytocin, but not TRH, simultaneously produced a consistent reduction in heart rate. Vasopressin injected into the same locus, at doses of 11 and 110 picomoles, had no effect on either function. Both the gastric and cardiac effects of oxytocin were eliminated by the central injections of oxytocin antagonist dEt2Tyr(Et)Orn8Vasotocin (ETOV; 6 picomoles) or peripheral administration of atropine (300 μg/kg, IP). Application of oxytocin or TRH to the area postrema, at double the dosage (22 picomoles) yielded no consistent effects on either gastric secretion or heart rate. These findings indicate that oxytocin in the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus may act as a regulator of vagally-mediated gastric and cardiovascular functions while TRH effects, in this medullary area, seem limited to the regulation of gastric function.
Stability criterion for continuous-time system polynomials with uncertain complex coefficients

An alternative and simple derivation for Kharitonov's theorem for both the complex and the real cases is provided. The approach is based on extensions to complex polynomials of certain properties associated with Hurwitz polynomials that are well known for the real case in the context of passive network theory. First, the characteristic lossless positive real (LPR) complex rational functions are defined. Next, they are associated with (complex) Hurwitz polynomials. Based on these mathematical preliminaries, Kharitonov's stability criterion for uncertain complex polynomials is derived. The special form of the criterion for real polynomials is also considered. >
Simultaneous high-speed gas property measurements at the exhaust gas recirculation cooler exit and at the turbocharger inlet of a multicylinder diesel engine using diode-laser-absorption spectroscopy.

A diode-laser-absorption-spectroscopy-based sensor system was used to perform high-speed (100 Hz to 5 kHz) measurements of gas properties (temperature, pressure, and H2O vapor concentration) at the turbocharger inlet and at the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) cooler exit of a diesel engine. An earlier version of this system was previously used for high-speed measurements of gas temperature and H2O vapor concentration in the intake manifold of the diesel engine. A 1387.2 N m tunable distributed feedback diode laser was used to scan across multiple H2O absorption transitions, and the direct absorption signal was recorded using a high-speed data acquisition system. Compact optical connectors were designed to conduct simultaneous measurements in the intake manifold, the EGR cooler exit, and the turbocharger inlet of the engine. For measurements at the turbocharger inlet, these custom optical connectors survived gas temperatures as high as 800 K using a simple and passive arrangement in which the temperature-sensitive components were protected from high temperatures using ceramic insulators. This arrangement reduced system cost and complexity by eliminating the need for any active water or oil cooling. Diode-laser measurements performed during steady-state engine operation were within 5% of the thermocouple and pressure sensor measurements, and within 10% of the H2O concentration values derived from the CO2 gas analyzer measurements. Measurements were also performed in the engine during transient events. In one such transient event, where a step change in fueling was introduced, the diode-laser sensor was able to capture the 30 ms change in the gas properties; the thermocouple, on the other hand, required 7.4 s to accurately reflect the change in gas conditions, while the gas analyzer required nearly 600 ms. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first implementation of such a simple and passive arrangement of high-temperature optical connectors as well as the first documented application of diode-laser absorption for high-speed gas dynamics measurements in the turbocharger inlet and EGR cooler exit of a diesel engine.
A Template Polynomial Approach To Image Processing

This paper describes a polynomial approach to the algebraic representation of binary and gray images for machine vision. Most of the image processings can be done by the template polynomial operations. The advantage of the polynomial approach over the classical methodology is discussed.
Oxidation of organic materials with perchlorates: relevance to the chemistry on the Martian surface

No organic materials have been found on the Martian surface, based on the results from the Viking and Phoenix missions. The Phoenix mission detected the inorganic perchlorates in the Martian soil. Perchlorates are potent oxidizing substances. The high-temperature oxidative properties of perchlorates may promote combustion of organics in pyrolytic experiments. This may compromise the ability of Phoenix's TEGA (Thermal and Evolved Gas Analyzer) experiments to detect organics. The high temperature conditions of TEGA instrument are not representative of the environment on Mars. In this paper we pose a question if organic materials can survive oxidation with perchlorates at less drastic temperatures. We have surveyed the literature on oxidations of various groups of organic materials by perchlorates. Several amino acids, notably glycine and alanine, are quite resistant to this oxidation. The same is true for some heterocycles, purines and purimidines. These organic materials may have survived perchlorate oxidation in the natural environment on Mars.
The effects of mandible morphology and photosynthetic pathway on selective herbivory in grasshoppers.

In the present study the following hypotheses were tested: 1) Selective herbivory is influenced by the photosynthetic pathway of plants, and 2) selective herbivory is influenced by the mandible morphology of herbivores. To test these hypotheses, grasshoppers with different mandibular patterns were offered C3 and C4 plants in controlled feeding experiments.Mandible morphology was found to be significantly associated with energy assimilation and feeding frequency. Grasshoppers with herbivorous mandibles had greater assimilation efficiencies and fed significantly less often than grasshoppers with forbivorous mandibles. These results indicate grasshoppers (with comparable caloric requirements) feed with a frequency determined, in part, by the functional morphology of their mandibles. Photosynthetic pathway also influenced the foraging behavior of grasshoppers tested. As predicted by the C4 avoidance hypothesis (Caswell et al. 1973), C4 plants were fed upon significantly less often than C3 plants. These results suggest grasshoppers may discriminate between C3 and C4 plants, but apparently not on the basis of available energy. Recent studies of insect herbivory, previously interpreted within the framework of C4 plant avoidance, are reviewed. The results of these studies may be critically dependent on incomplete considerations of mandible morphology and photosynthetic pathway.
The distribution of various water soluble radioactive metalloporphyrins in tumor bearing mice.

Abstract The distribution of a variety of water soluble 109 Pd and 64 Cu porphyrins were studied in mice bearing three types of tumors. While the metalloporphyrins are found to have an affinity for neoplastic tissue, substantial extra-tumor concentrations are also noted. Although this limits their value as specific tumor imaging agents, their use in localized therapy is discussed.
A role for ionizing radiation in myelomagenesis

Using data from the monoclonal-protein screening study on Nagasaki atomic bomb survivors, Iwanaga and colleagues report in this issue of Blood that ionizing radiation is associated with an elevated risk of MGUS, particularly for individuals exposed at younger ages.
The role of calnexin in NK-target cell interaction

Abstract In this study, a relationship between target cell sensitivity to natural killing and target cell expression of the molecular chaperon calnexin was assessed. The NK-resistant cell line NKR was originally derived from the NK-sensitive, human T-cell line CEM and does not synthesize calnexin protein or mRNA. The cell lines CEM, NKR and 1B9 (NKR transfected with a calnexin cDNA) were compared in a number of assays. All the lines but CEM were resistant to NK in conventional 4 h cytotoxicity assay, but were highly sensitive to IL-2 activated NK. Incubation of NK cells with CEM but not with the other two lines led to increased expression of the NK cell activation marker CD69. Treatment of effector cells with PGE2 and TGF-β resulted in an inhibition of NK activity and CD69 expression. The calnexin transfected clone 1B9 clone had intermediate ability to block cytotoxicity in cold target inhibition assay compared to CEM and NKR. Expression of the adhesion molecules CD44 and LFA-1α was significantly higher on both calnexin positive cell lines compared to NKR. These data suggest that calnexin controls the expression of some, but not all, target structures that are necessary for binding and activation of NK cells.
INTO THE NEW MILLENNIUM: CONSERVATION INPUT FOR FOUR TWENTY-FIRST CENTURY ARTS BUILDINGS

The Conservation Department of the National Gallery of Victoria in Melbourne, Australia, contributed to four new building projects: an offsite long-term storage facility with temporary conservation facilities; a temporary display for approximately three years in a newly renovated nineteenth-century building; a new building with 21 galleries devoted exclusively to Australian art; and the complete renovation of a 1967 building to turn it into a 30-gallery building dedicated to international art. Preventive conservation principles were applied to all four buildings and the author presents a synopsis of his experience of these projects.
Shell gaping behaviour of Pinna nobilis L., 1758: circadian and circalunar rhythms revealed by in situ monitoring

Gaping activity of bivalve molluscs is closely related to physiological process such as breathing, nutrition, responses to environmental stimuli and follows rhythmic cycles in many species. Although the alternation of Sun and Moon is the major entraining agent for the daily living clock-driven rhythms, cyclic extrinsic environmental factors can also modulate gaping activity. Therefore, laboratory experimental conditions can alter the natural behaviour of bivalves, hindering the interpretation of observations. Many features of Pinna nobilis physiology are poorly known, gaping activity not being an exception. To reduce the knowledge gap on this regard, we performed a study on the species gaping activity. The research was designed to be carried out in situ, in order to avoid the interference of laboratory conditions in the observations. To this end, we designed and fabricated a new electronic system composed by a data logger and a sensor formed by multiple reed switches activated by a single magnet. The system is autonomous and can record gaping activity of subtidal bivalves in potentially any type of subtidal environment. Furthermore, it requires little framework for the installation. With this system, we monitored 10 individuals in periods ranging between 3 and 21 days, for up to a total of 98 days. The records have shown that far from being all day open, as previously suggested, P. nobilis follows marked circadian and circalunar rhythms of gaping activity. Individuals usually close the valves during night, sometimes for more than 12 h. The repetition of patterns observed made it possible to distinguish between two main behaviours: (1) night-closing related with sunset and (2) night-opening related with the Moon visible in the sky with the disc illuminated more than 50%. Another two less common trends were also observed: (3) day-closing and (4) night-opening with no visible Moon.
Follicle cell protein synthesis and its contribution to the yolk of the Cecropia moth oocyte.

Abstract The work presented in this report describes the pattern of polypetides synthesized by the follicular epithelium from the vitellogenic Cecropia moth follicle. The role of the follicle cell product in egg formation is also discussed. The experimental approach involved: (1) incubation of living material with a labeled precursor; (2) isolation of specific parts of the follicle; (3) solubilization of the sample using sodium dodecyl sulfate and dithioerythritol; (4) identification of the labeled polypeptides by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The results show that the follicular epithelium from vitellogenic follicles labels a wide variety of electrophoretically different polypeptides. It is also demonstrated that one labeled product is secreted by the follicular epithelium, taken up by the oocytes, and then packaged into the yolk spheres.
Marshallian factor market externalities and the dynamics of industrial localization

Abstract When an industry has thus chosen a locality for itself, it is likely to stay there long: so great are the advantages which people following the same skilled trade get from near neighborhood to one another …. A localized industry gains a great advantage from the fact that it offers a constant market for skill. Employers are apt to resort to any place where they are likely to find a good choice of workers …; while men seeking employment naturally go to places where there are many employers who need such skill as theirs …. The advantages of variety of employment are combined with those of localized industries in some of our manufacturing towns, and this is a chief cause of their continued growth. Alfred Marshall, Principles of Economics , 8th ed., pp. 271–272 (1920).
Carrying capacity in recreational settings: Evolution, appraisal, and application

Abstract This paper traces the historical evolution of the carrying capacity concept. It argues that many of the fundamental propositions of the concept were understood and articulated early in its evolution. Of particular importance was the recognition that the relationship between visitor satisfaction and use levels was dependent upon the activities in which an individual participated, and the needs or desires that activity was to fulfill. The literature reporting generally low levels of statistical association between reports of trip satisfaction and levels of encounters is reviewed critically, and a number of mediating influences on this association are suggested. Finally, it is suggested that research focused on defining “How much is too much?” is directed at the wrong issue; rather, the focus should be on the question of what kinds of resource and social conditions are appropriate and acceptable in different settings. A reformulated approach to the carrying capacity issue—the limits of acceptable ch...
Pressure-jump relaxation kinetics in mixed solvents: Ni(NCS)2 in methanol-dimethylsulfoxide and nickel malonate in H2O-d(-) fructose mixtures

Abstract Relaxation kinetic results for the systems Ni(NCS) 2 in the solvent mixture methanol-DMSO and nickel(II) malonate in water-d(-) fructose are reported. Analysis of these data reveal that methanol and DMSO compete for the first coordination shell of Ni 2+ . On the contrary, all the experimental evidence seems to indicate that water is strongly favored over the sugar molecule in the solvation of Ni 2+ . Visible spectra for Ni(C ≼ O 4 ) 2 in the two solvent mixtures covering one of the visible bands of Ni 2+ are also reported. The indications deduced by the spectral trends are not in conflict with the analysis of the kinetic data.
Pharmacokinetics of a High-Generation Dendrimer–Gd-DOTA

Dendrimers are three-dimensional branching polymers that have received much attention as transfection agents (1), drug delivery agents (2), and magnetic resonance (MR) contrast agents (3–5). To be used as MR contrast agents, dendrimers have been conjugated with paramagnetic metal ion complexes. The large number of paramagnetic metal ion complexes that can be covalently attached per dendrimer molecule, which depends on the dendrimer generation, has resulted in a new class of macromolecular MR contrast agents. Unlike other macromolecular-based MR contrast agents such as albumin, dextran, and poly-Llysine, dendrimers are discrete reagents with well-defined sizes and shapes. The paramagnetic metal ion complexes have included gadolinium chelated to the derivatized acyclic ligand of diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA) and the derivatized macrocylic ligands of 1,4,7,10-tetra
Dextranomer/hyaluronic acid for pediatric vesicoureteral reflux: systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: Published success rates of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid (Dx/HA) injection for pediatric vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) vary widely. Our objective of this study was to assess whether underlying patient or study factors could explain the heterogeneity in reported Dx/HA success rates. METHODS: We searched the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register and Medline, Embase, and Scopus databases from 1990 to 2008 for reports in any language, along with a hand search of included study bibliographies. Articles were assessed and data abstracted in duplicate, and differences were resolved by consensus. Conflict of interest (COI) was determined by published disclosure. Meta-regression was performed to adjust for patient as well as study-level factors. RESULTS: We identified 1157 reports, 89 of which were reviewed in full with 47 included in the pooled analysis. Of 7303 ureters that were injected with Dx/HA, 5633 (77%) were successfully treated according to the authors9 definition. Injection success seemed to vary primarily on the basis of the preoperative reflux grade. After adjustment for VUR grade, other factors, such as the presence or absence of COI disclosure, were not significant. Studies were markedly heterogeneous overall. CONCLUSIONS: The overall per-ureter Dx/HA success rate was 77% after 3 months, although success rates varied widely among studies. Increased VUR grade negatively affected success rates, whereas COI, patient age, and injected Dx/HA volume were not significantly associated with treatment outcome after adjustment for VUR grade. There is a significant need for improved reporting of VUR treatments, including comparative studies of Dx/HA and other VUR treatments.
Benefiting from the practice of social impact assessment

This paper summarizes the major benefits of doing social impact assessment both as a stand alone activity or integrated with environmental, health, and economic assessments. Findings include the legislative basis for doing SIA, its knowledge base, how it is used, changes in the practice and the growing acceptance of SIA in the planning/decision process. In conclusion there is a summary of a few of the myths and misunderstandings that have limited the use of social impact assessment in the past.
The different manifestations of the calor-electric effect in flame plasmas†

Abstract The calor-electric effect emerges as a broad phenomenon which shows various manifestations under different experimental conditions. A proposed scheme classifies the full range of this phenomenon into three categories which are referred to as the normal, anomalous and the enhanced calor-electric effect. The experimental conditions are defined for the appearance of each of these three manifestations. The anomalous calor-electric effect is discussed in slightly more detail by elaborating on the possible mechanisms responsible for the massive formation of heavy negative particles near a water-cooled electrode. A re-evaluation of earlier results leads to an improved value of 2·2 volts for the maximum calculated value of the anomalous calor-electric voltage. This compares very favourably with the maximum experimentally observed value of 1·9 volts for an atmospheric CH4-O2 stoichiometric flame.
Plaque radiation therapy for malignant melanoma of the iris and ciliary body

Abstract PURPOSE: To report on plaque radiation therapy for malignant melanomas involving the iris and ciliary body. METHODS: Twenty-two eyes (22 patients) with anterior uveal melanomas were treated with 103 Pd ophthalmic plaque radiation therapy. Transillumination and ultrasonography were used to evaluate ciliary body involvement and posterior iris extension. Plaques were placed onto the cornea to treat the anterior tumor margins. The targeted-zone included the tumor and a 2 to 3 mm tumor-free margin. After plaque removal, patients were examined at 1 day, 7 days, 4 weeks, and then every 3 to 6 months thereafter. Systemic evaluations for possible metastatic disease were performed every 6 months. RESULTS: After plaque radiation therapy, the melanomas decreased in thickness (mean 47%) in all 22 eyes, and no secondary enucleation was performed. One patient died of metastatic melanoma 5 years after radiation therapy. Despite anterior plaque placement that covered portions of the cornea, no epiphora, eyelash loss, or visually significant corneal opacities were noted. Whereas 15 of 21 phakic eyes (71%) developed secondary cataract, no eyes developed ischemic or neovascular radiation maculopathy. Four eyes were noted to have glaucoma before treatment, and two developed it after irradiation. Twenty of 22 eyes (91%) were within 2 lines of their pretreatment visual acuity. After radiation, the mean ± SD follow-up was 56 ± 34.4 months (range, 9 to 117 months). CONCLUSIONS: Plaque radiotherapy of melanomas involving the iris and ciliary body resulted in excellent local control with preservation of vision. Although there was high incidence of secondary cataracts, 103 Pd plaque radiation therapy resulted in no visually significant corneal opacity or radiation retinopathy.
Structure and Mechanism of Formation of Human Lens Fluorophore LM-1 RELATIONSHIP TO VESPERLYSINE A AND THE ADVANCED MAILLARD REACTION IN AGING, DIABETES, AND CATARACTOGENESIS

Abstract Human lens crystallins become progressively yellow-brown pigmented with age. Both fluorescent and non-fluorescent protein adducts and cross-links are formed, many of which result from the advanced Maillard reaction. One of them, LM-1, is a blue fluorophore that was earlier tentatively identified as a cross-link involving lysine residues (1). A two-step chromatographic system was used to unequivocally identify and quantitatively prepare a synthetic fluorescent cross-link with lysine residues that had identical UV, fluorescent, and chromatographic properties with both acetylated and non-acetylated LM-1. Proton, 13C NMR, and molecular mass of the synthetic compound were identical with vesperlysine A, a fluorescent cross-link discovered by Nakamura et al. (2). The fragmentation patterns of vesperlysine A and LM-1 were identical as determined by NMR/mass spectrometry. Lenticular levels of vesperlysine A increase curvilinearly with age and reach 20 pmol/mg at 90 years. Levels correlate with degree of lens crystallin pigmentation and fluorescence and are increased in diabetes, in contrast toN e-(carboxymethyl)lysine and pentosidine. Ascorbate, d-pentoses, andd-threose, but neither d-glucose under oxidative conditions, dl-glyceraldehyde, methylglyoxal, glyoxal, nor glycolaldehyde, are precursors. However, addition of C-2 compounds greatly catalyzes vesperlysine A formation from ribose. Thus, vesperlysine A/LM-1 is a novel product of the advanced Maillard reaction in vivo and a specific marker of a diabetic process in the lens that is different from glyco- and lipoxidation.
Beating Heart Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery After Orthotopic Heart Transplantation

Beating-heart coronary artery bypass surgery was performed in a 52-year-old man with accelerated transplant coronary artery disease 10 years after orthotopic heart transplantation. Transplant coronary artery disease was first detected in the left circumflex coronary artery 9 years after transplantation. Rapid progression to triple vessel disease occurred within 1 year, and the patient developed worsening symptoms of shortness of breath and chest pain. He underwent off-pump “beating heart” left internal mammary artery to left anterior descending coronary artery bypass surgery. The circumflex coronary artery was not graftable due to diffuse and truncated small vessel disease. His postoperative course was uneventful and he was discharged on the fifth postoperative day. Coronary angiography 3 months after the surgery revealed a widely patent left internal mammary artery to left anterior descending artery bypass. He is alive and symptom free more than 1 year after his surgery. (J Card Surg 2003;18:545-549)
Epidemiological appraisal of the literature on the fetal alcohol syndrome in humans

An evaluation of the evidence regarding the association between heavy maternal alcohol intake during pregnancy and the occurrence in offspring of that cluster of abnormalities called the Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is undertaken from an epidemiological perspective. Areas of concern in assessing the literature include the objectivity with which the maternal drinking history was obtained, the nature, systematic or not, of examination of offspring, the presence or absence of a comparison group, the control for potentially confounding factors and, perhaps most important of all, whether or not the identification of a case was made blind to knowledge of the maternal drinking history. While well-documented evidence that can implicate a hypothesized teratogen is difficult to obtain, the data available concerning the effects of in utero exposure to high doses of alcohol must be carefully and thoughtfully scrutinized so that valid inferences may be drawn. In this review particular attention is focused on the nature of the association between in utero alcohol exposure and mental retardation, certainly the most devastating of the FAS features.
The photoassisted reaction of gaseous water and carbon dioxide adsorbed on the SrTiO3 (111) crystal face to form methane

Abstract The photosynthetic reaction of gas phase water and carbon dioxide molecules adsorbed onto strontium titanate surfaces that are in contact with platinum foils is reported. The dominant reaction product detected at 15 torr partial pressures of the reactant gases is methane. The reaction takes place without any externally applied potential (between the foil and SrTiO2) and in the absence of liquid electrolyte, when the clean, reduced SrTiO3 (111) crystal face in illuminated with light of energy greater than the band gap. A thermal process, which produces methane, when the SrTiO3Pt sandwich is healed in CO2 and water, is also observed. The photo and thermal processes are easily distinguished by the use of filters.
Photochromism of sol-gel glasses containing encapsulated organic molecules

Photochromism is defined as a reversible light induced color change of a material. By encapsulating photochromic molecules in glasses prepared by the sol-gel technique, transparent photochromic glass has been made. The new optical materials have potential applications in the areas of information recording and optical switching. Both the reversible color changes and the corresponding rates of these changes depend in part on the environment of the molecule in the glass matrix. In this paper, the results of studies involving the incorporation of the photochromic molecule, 2,3-diphenylindenone oxide in a variety of sol- gel glasses (aluminosilicate, silicate, ORMOSIL) are reported. The unirradiated gel and glass are colorless. Upon exposure to light of wavelengths less than 400 nm, the material turns red. When the irradiation ceases, the material returns to its original colorless form. The photochromic and spectroscopic properties of these glasses are presented and the rates of the color transformations are discussed.
Luminescent properties of BexCd1-xSe thin films

Abstract We report photoluminescence (PL) study of Be x Cd 1− x Se epitaxial layers ( x
Antarctic Megacalanidae (Copepoda: Calanoida) and the distribution of the family

The global distribution of the 12 described, deep-living megacalanid species is presented in a report on collections made in the Southern Ocean during the United States Antarctic Research Program. Included are four species and one subspecies described in 1967 from samples obtained early in the program. In the material lent to the author by the Smithsonian Oceanographic Sorting Center, only six of the described species were found. Bathycalanus bradyi , common in those samples and elsewhere, is made a synonym of B. richardi. The predominant forms are, in order, B. richardi, Megacalanus princeps , and B. princeps , with Bradycalanus sarsi, B. typicus and B. gigas also present. Knowledge of their distribution and ecology is discussed.
Farmers' Attitudes and Behavior toward Sustainable Agriculture

Abstract Recent studies of ideologies of sustainable farmers and conventional farmers suggest that these two groups have differing beliefs, values, and attitudes on agriculture and rural life. Although awareness of these differing attitudes and values is an important step in moving toward educational programs and policies for a more sustainable agriculture, actual behavior may not be predictable from this knowledge. A mail survey of Iowa farmers with membership in Practical Farmers of Iowa, a sustainable agriculture organization, was used to examine the attitude—behavior relationship of these farmers and the role social influences play in this relationship. Attitude and social influence scales were developed, as well as a chemical input index that measures commitment to sustainable practices. The results indicate that, when controlling explanatory factors, the attitude—behavior relationship is moderate and the social influences examined do not facilitate this relationship. Implications for educational pro...
Management of pediatric postrenal transplantation infections.

Infections are the leading cause of hospitalization and death after renal transplantation in children. Various agents are implicated in posttransplantation infections. Viral infections due to the cytomegalovirus and Epstein-Barr virus have assumed greater importance as other infections such as pneumocystis pneumonia have come under control. Multiple factors contribute to the difficulty in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of pediatric postrenal transplantation infections. Prevention of infections by adequate preparation before transplantation and the use of chemoprophylaxis should be made a priority. An aggressive approach to diagnosis is required when investigating fever in children. It is hoped that the use of more specific immunosuppressive agents that block only the alloactivated T cells and leave the rest of the immune response intact may result in a reduction in the number and frequency of infections.
Using all bids in parametric estimation of first-price auctions

Abstract Recently Laffont et al. (1995) have proposed an SNLLS estimator using winning bids only. Here, we derive a relationship between the means of observed bids and private values to propose an SNLLS estimator using all bids in first-price auctions.
The Big Five personality traits, material values, and financial well-being of self-described money managers

Previous research has linked personality traits, material values, and money management to savings, debt, and compulsive buying. To extend previous research, four online surveys examined the Big Five personality traits and material values of those who manage their money and determined the independent effects of money management on wealth, debt, and compulsive buying. Results suggest that (a) individuals who believe that material possessions can provide happiness manage their money less and (b) highly conscientious individuals manage their money more because they have positive financial attitudes as well as a future orientation. Further, money management is significantly related to increased savings, decreased debt, and less compulsive buying even after controlling for numerous socio-demographic and dispositional variables. In the Discussion we suggest that materialists may experience a ‘pain of knowing’ about their finances because money management may highlight the discouraging implications of their purchasing behavior.
How and to What Extent Do Two Cover, Copy, and Compare Spelling Interventions Contribute to Spelling, Word Recognition, and Vocabulary Development?

We used an adapted alternating treatments design to evaluate and compare the effects of 2 spelling interventions on spelling acquisition and maintenance, word reading, and vocabulary in three first-grade students. The first intervention, Cover, Copy, and Compare (CCC), involved having participants look at a word, cover it, write it, then compare the written response with the original stimulus. For the second intervention, Cover, Copy, and Compare + Sentence Definition (CCC + SD), CCC was supplemented with the experimenter reading a sentence containing the word and a brief definition of the word. Results showed that both interventions increased participants’ spelling at an equivalent rate, which was greater than a control condition. All participants showed greater gains in word reading in the 2 interventions than the control condition, and only 1 participant was better able to define words learned in the CCC + SD condition relative to the CCC condition.
Satellite remote sensing of chlorophyll a in support of nutrient management in the Neuse and Tar–Pamlico River (North Carolina) estuaries

Abstract The North Carolina Environmental Management Commission (EMC) has adopted as a water quality standard that chlorophyll a concentration should not exceed 40 μg/L in sounds, estuaries and other slow-moving waters. In 1996, nutrient load reductions were placed into North Carolina (NC) law to reduce the extent and duration of algal blooms in the Neuse and Tar River estuaries (Session Law 1995, Section 572). The chlorophyll a criterion was used as the endpoint to manage total nitrogen concentrations, and compliance would be achieved if chl a exceedances occurred in fewer than 10% of the samples collected in a specified area and time (known as the 10/40 criterion). In 2009, discussions were held between the North Carolina Department of Environmental and Natural Resources (NCDENR) and US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) concerning the practicality of using satellite-derived chl a concentrations to monitor water quality, enforce water quality-related environmental regulations, and understand the environmental impacts of the watershed land-use practices on coastal waters. In this study, the MERIS chlorophyll a data product was used to conduct a retrospective analysis of the NC standard for water quality and Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) for total nitrogen in the Neuse and Tar–Pamlico River estuaries from 2006 to 2009. From daily MERIS images, compliance and chlorophyll exceedances in the Neuse and Tar–Pamlico River estuaries were assessed at daily and aggregated to annual time scales.