cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Low Serum Testosterone in Outpatient Psychiatry Clinics: Addressing Challenges to the Screening and Treatment of Hypogonadism

Abstract Introduction The symptoms of low testosterone frequently overlap with psychiatric complaints including depression and fatigue. Testosterone repletion has been shown to improve mood symptoms in men with low testosterone, although this finding has not been consistent across all studies. Despite the potential importance of low testosterone for psychiatry, the prevalence of low testosterone in men who present to psychiatric clinics with mental health complaints is unknown. Aim To provide an overview of the current state of knowledge of the psychiatric complications of male hypogonadism, the challenges of screening for hypogonadism in a psychiatric population, and the potential mental health treatment implications of hypogonadism. Methods A literature review was conducted using PubMed. Main Outcome Measures Publications pertaining to the epidemiology, psychiatric symptomatology, and impact of treatment of male hypogonadism on psychiatric outcomes. Results A review of the literature suggests a lack of information on the prevalence of low testosterone in patients presenting with psychiatric complaints despite an overlap in clinical symptoms. The identification of low testosterone could have a significant impact on treatment through urologic referral for testosterone repletion or the use of treatments that spare the gonadal axis. Conclusion We hope our results will help those who care for patients in psychiatric settings to better assess for the presence of hypogonadism and its potential contribution to depressive illness. Smith JB, Rosen J, Colbert A. Low Serum Testosterone in Outpatient Psychiatry Clinics: Addressing Challenges to the Screening and Treatment of Hypogonadism. Sex Med Rev 2018;6:69–76.
Child Growth in Karamoja, Uganda: Effects of Armed Conflict, Subsistence Change, and Maternal Behavior

This chapter reviews recent studies of child growth among Karimojong agropastoralists in Moroto District (Karamoja sub-region), northeast Uganda. In recent decades, prevalence of stunting and wasting has increased among Karimojong children, compared with children from this population in the 1960s. Their growth is also poor by comparison with closely related Turkana pastoralists in Kenya. Slow growth and poor nutritional status of Karimojong children today is partly a consequence of heavy disease burdens in this population, but these have not changed since earlier decades. However, maternal capacity to mediate the impact of infection and other stressors on children’s physical well-being – a critical buffer against environmental insults resulting in growth faltering – has been undermined by subsistence changes associated with worsening environmental conditions and decades of armed conflict in Karamoja. As a result of the disabling of the agropastoral system, the nutritional quality of the diet has deteriorated while demands on maternal time of other subsistence activities interfere with maternal care. Specific effects of dietary change and altered maternal behaviors on breastfeeding and weaning and on the growth of children in their first few years are considered.
The leukemia inhibitory factor and its receptor.

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on the leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) and its receptor that exemplifies many features of cytokine biology. The gene encoding LIF has been cloned and its product characterized extensively; LIF binds to receptors on responsive cells with high and low affinity and the molecular basis for the two types of receptors are determined. Many protein factors that affect the growth and differentiation of mammalian cells are characterized and are collectively termed growth factors or cytokines. The biochemical rationale for the two forms of LIF, one soluble and the other immobilized, are discussed and the suggestion made that the immobilized LIF may be deposited as a topological or temporal signal in the developing embryo. LIF expression fluctuates in different tissues during development, there being more in adult brain than in embryonic brain and more in day 1 postnatal heart than in adult heart. The development of primordial germ cells is also affected by LIF. A combination of LIF and steel factor improves primordial germ cell survival and proliferative capacity in vitro. There are two clinically interesting systems in which LIF is demonstrated to be active—namely, inflammation and cachexia. Serum LIF levels are elevated in mice treated with bacterial lipopolysaccharide, and LIF is demonstrated to be identical in structure and function to hepatocyte-stimulating factor III that causes the release of acute-phase plasma proteins (APPs).
Chronic Mesenteric Ischemia: Clinical Diagnosis, Imaging Characteristics, and Endovascular Management

Chronic mesenteric ischemia (CMI) is a complex disorder, which typically affects elderly patients who classically present with longstanding abdominal pain and nonspecific clinical symptoms, such as food aversion and weight loss. The disease progression is often gradual due to a rich collateral network, and symptoms are generally not clinically apparent until two or more primary visceral arteries are affected. Symptomatic stenosis or occlusion of the mesenteric arteries can be the result of multiple etiologies, although atherosclerosis is the most common. Given its low incidence, a high clinical suspicion is necessary for diagnosis and to prevent a delay in treatment. Multiple imaging modalities are utilized to confirm the presence of mesenteric vessel involvement and to guide treatment. While open surgical revascularization was once the definitive treatment, endovascular management has become the first-line treatment for atherosclerotic CMI. The endovascular approach with stent placement has shown excellent primary success and encouraging long-term outcomes with reduction in morbidity and mortality compared with open surgical revascularization. Although controversial, median arcuate ligament syndrome (MALS) is a less common cause of CMI, which can affect a more varied patient population. Clinical approach, imaging characteristics, and treatment for this syndrome will also be discussed.
Knee Stiffness After Tibial Plateau Fractures: Predictors and Outcomes (OTA-41).

OBJECTIVES What patient characteristics and injury factors predict decreased knee range of motion (ROM) after operative management of tibial plateau fractures? DESIGN Prospective cohort study. SETTING Academic medical center. PATIENTS Over 11 years, tibial plateau fractures at a single academic institution were prospectively followed. A total of 266 patients were included in this study. INTERVENTION Surgical repair of tibial plateau fractures and secondary interventions due to arthrofibrosis. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Clinical outcomes were evaluated using the Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment and ROM at 3-month, 6-month, and long-term follow-up. Secondary outcomes were considered as the need for a subsequent procedure due to arthrofibrosis. RESULTS At 3-month follow-up, the mean ROM was 113 degrees. By long-term follow-up (mean = 17 months), the mean ROM improved to 125 degrees. Independent predictors of decreased knee ROM were the following: at 3-month follow-up, open fractures (P = 0.047), application of a knee-spanning external fixator (P = 0.026), orthopaedic polytrauma (P = 0.003), and tibial spine involvement (P = 0.043); and at long-term follow-up, nonwhite ethnicity (P = 0.003), increasing age (P = 0.003), and a deep infection (P = 0.002). Ten patients (3.7%) required a secondary procedure for arthrofibrosis. There was a significant improvement in the knee ROM (P < 0.001) and functional outcomes (P = 0.004) following the intervention. CONCLUSIONS At long-term follow-up, independent predictors of decreased knee ROM were nonwhite ethnicity, increasing age, and sustaining a postoperative complication of a deep infection. Secondary interventions were reliable treatments for arthrofibrosis. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Correction to: Peripheral immune system in aging and Alzheimer's disease

The original article [1] contained several small omissions and errata contained in Tables 2 and 3; these errors have now been corrected.
The Adult Patient with Congenital Heart Disease in the Emergency Department

Abstract It is well recognized that adult survivors with congenital heart disease are at risk for several cardiac and noncardiac complications that can impact their long-term outcomes. Emergency departments are increasingly being used for the evaluation and management of acute complications in these patients. However, there are several issues that are unique to adults with congenital heart disease related to the complexity of their cardiac anatomy, previous surgical intervention, and residual hemodynamic lesions that can complicate their presentation and management. This review examines the many challenges faced in caring for adults with congenital heart disease presenting to the emergency department, including the issues related to underlying cardiac lesion, access to care, and the evaluation and management of common clinical presentations.
The UCSC Cancer Genomics Browser: update 2015

The UCSC Cancer Genomics Browser (https://genome-cancer.ucsc.edu/) is a web-based application that integrates relevant data, analysis and visualization, allowing users to easily discover and share their research observations. Users can explore the relationship between genomic alterations and phenotypes by visualizing various -omic data alongside clinical and phenotypic features, such as age, subtype classifications and genomic biomarkers. The Cancer Genomics Browser currently hosts 575 public datasets from genome-wide analyses of over 227 000 samples, including datasets from TCGA, CCLE, Connectivity Map and TARGET. Users can download and upload clinical data, generate Kaplan–Meier plots dynamically, export data directly to Galaxy for analysis, plus generate URL bookmarks of specific views of the data to share with others.
A PROGRAMMABLE PRESSURE-DISPLACEMENT TRANSDUCER FOR MEASURING BRAIN MECHANICAL PROPERTIES IN-VIVO

ABSTRACT We have developed a microprocessor controlled, coplanar, pressure-displacement transducer for measuring brain mechanical properties in-vivo, extradurally. Insertion and withdrawal of the transducer are accomplished by software routines, as are data acquisition and manipulation. Flexibility in programming allows characterization of brain elastic and anelastic behavior upon user command. Currently, the system is used in the anesthetized dog and determines the short time (instantaneous) elastic behavior, relaxation properties, and rate dependence of brain tissue in-vivo. The digitized data permit rapid calculation of brain tissue mechanical parameters, thus eliminating the tedious graphic analysis.
Revisiting the musculocutaneous external oblique flap as a versatile alternative in large thoracic wall defects.

The external oblique myocutaneous flap has been previously described for reconstruction of chest-thoracic wall defects smaller than 400–500 cm2. However, it is utilized less often than workhorse flaps such as the omental, pectoralis, rectus abdominis, and latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flaps as many plastic surgeons are not aware that the flap can cover larger areas than previously documented. We report a 57-year-old female tobacco user who underwent a resection of a grade 3 breast angiosarcoma resulting in a high left chest wall soft tissue defect approximating 900 cm2. The patient underwent an external oblique myocutaneous pedicle flap reconstruction of the defect, most notably in anticipation of postoperative adjuvant radiation therapy. No gross flap complications and or patient impairment were noted. Thirteen months status post flap reconstruction, the patient underwent an aortic valve replacement requiring re-elevation of the same flap for exposure. The flap demonstrated excellent viability during the procedure and postoperatively. The pedicled external oblique myocutaneous flap should be considered when reconstructing larger high chest wall defects when other more common flaps used in chest reconstruction may not be indicated. The external oblique myocutaneous flap is an excellent tool in the armamentarium of any reconstructive surgeon; it is a straightforward and versatile flap that can be safely and reliably used in durable reconstruction of defects of the chest wall and covers defects larger than previously described in the literature.
Sideroflexin 4 affects Fe-S cluster biogenesis, iron metabolism, mitochondrial respiration and heme biosynthetic enzymes

Sideroflexin4 (SFXN4) is a member of a family of nuclear-encoded mitochondrial proteins. Rare germline mutations in SFXN4 lead to phenotypic characteristics of mitochondrial disease including impaired mitochondrial respiration and hematopoetic abnormalities. We sought to explore the function of this protein. We show that knockout of SFXN4 has profound effects on Fe-S cluster formation. This in turn diminishes mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes and mitochondrial respiration and causes a shift to glycolytic metabolism. SFXN4 knockdown reduces the stability and activity of cellular Fe-S proteins, affects iron metabolism by influencing the cytosolic aconitase–IRP1 switch, redistributes iron from the cytosol to mitochondria, and impacts heme synthesis by reducing levels of ferrochelatase and inhibiting translation of ALAS2. We conclude that SFXN4 is essential for normal functioning of mitochondria, is necessary for Fe-S cluster biogenesis and iron homeostasis, and plays a critical role in mitochondrial respiration and synthesis of heme.
Unsupervised generation of polygonal approximations based on the convex hull

Abstract The present paper proposes a new non-optimal but unsupervised algorithm, called ICT-RDP, for generation of polygonal approximations based on the convex hull. Firstly, the new algorithm takes into account the convex hull of the 2D closed curves or contours to select a set of initial points; secondly, the significance levels of the contour points are computed using a symmetric version of the well-known Ramer, Douglas-Peucker algorithm; and, finally, a thresholding process is applied to obtain the vertices or dominant points of the polygonal approximation. Since the convex hull can select many initial points in rounded parts of the contour, an additional deletion process is required to remove quasi-collinear dominant points. Furthermore, an additional improvement process is applied to shift the dominant points in order to increase the quality of the polygonal approximation. Experiments performed on a public available dataset show that the new proposal outperforms other unsupervised algorithms for generation of polygonal approximations.
Comparing Compassionate Love and Empathy as Predictors of Transgression-General and Transgression-Specific Forgiveness:

For Christians, forgiveness is exhibiting Christlike love even when it seems impossible for the amount pain that the other has caused in the forgiver. However, empirical studies on the relationship...
Pride and prejudice in the NHS

Friday lunchtime, on call, mid-pandemic. A message from the midwife asked me to phone a lady requiring referral to the early miscarriage unit as she had a private scan result that showed no detectable fetal heartbeat. It transpired that this patient, in her late twenties, had a distressing obstetric history that included a stillborn child, a neonatal death, and intervening treatment for malignancy. She had sought an early ultrasound in the private sector that had shown a missed miscarriage at 10 weeks’ gestation. Quite naturally she had contacted her midwife to be told that only a GP could refer her to the NHS service. When I did this, the on-call clinician was scathing about patients who had early scans in the private sector and the problems this caused. It took some persistence to relay the context of this patient and her distress and arrange an assessment. ‘Well, anyway …
The COVID-19 Pandemic and Psychosocial Outcomes across Age through the Stress and Coping Framework.

Background and objectives The emergence of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and the measures implemented to curb its spread may have deleterious effects on mental health. Older adults may be at increased risk for adverse psychosocial outcomes because opportunities to remain socially connected have diminished. Research is needed to better understand the impact of pandemic-related stress on mental health. The purpose of this study is 3-fold: (a) to examine the influences of COVID-19 pandemic-related stress on depression, anxiety, and loneliness; (b) to assess the mediating role of coping style and social support; and (c) to investigate whether these relationships vary across age. Research design and methods Participants (N = 1,318) aged 18-92 years completed an online survey assessing pandemic-related stress, mental health, social support, coping, and their experiences with social distancing, during the initial implementation of social distancing measures in the United States. Results Social support and coping style were found to relate to psychosocial outcomes. Avoidant coping was the strongest mediator of the relationship between pandemic-related stress and psychosocial outcomes, particularly depression. Avoidant coping more strongly mediated the relationship between stress and depression in younger adults compared to older adults. Discussion and implications Results were consistent with the stress and coping framework and recent work highlighting older adults' resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings highlight the associations between positive coping behaviors and psychosocial well-being and indicate that older adults may use unique adaptive mechanisms to preserve well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Higher spin mapping class groups and strata of Abelian differentials over Teichmüller space

Abstract For g ≥ 5 , we give a complete classification of the connected components of strata of abelian differentials over Teichmuller space, establishing an analogue of Kontsevich and Zorich's classification of their components over moduli space. Building on work of the first author [2] , we find that the non-hyperelliptic components are classified by an invariant known as an r–spin structure. This is accomplished by computing a certain monodromy group valued in the mapping class group. To do this, we determine explicit finite generating sets for all r–spin stabilizer subgroups of the mapping class group, completing a project begun by the second author in [18] . Some corollaries in flat geometry and toric geometry are obtained from these results.
Smithing Queer Empiricism: Engaging Ethnomethodology for a Queer Social Science

Is queer social science possible? Early queer theorists disparaged empiricism as a normalizing, modernist discourse. Nonetheless, LGBTQI+ social scientists have applied queer concepts in empirical ...
Critical system strength evaluation of the power system with high penetration of renewable energy generations

The power system is experiencing a higher penetration of renewable energy generations (REGs). The short circuit ratio (SCR) and the grid impedance ratio (GIR) are two indices to quantify the system strength of the power system with REGs. In this paper, the critical short circuit ratio (CSCR) is defined as the corresponding SCR when the system voltage is in the critical stable state. Through the static voltage stability analysis, the mathematical expression of the CSCR considering the impact of GIR is derived. The maximum value of CSCR is adopted as the critical value to distinguish the weak power system. Based on the static equivalent circuit analysis, it is proved that the CSCR is still effective to evaluate the critical system strength considering the interactive impact among REGs. Finally, we find that the GIR can be neglected and the SCR can be used individually to evaluate the system strength when SCR>2 or GIR>5. The correctness and rationality of the CSCR and its critical value are validated on ADPSS.
Preschool Experience vs. No Preschool Experience: Long Term Effects on Academic and Social Readiness of Children

7 Chapter 1 Introduction 8 Statement of Problem 8 Purpose Statement 9 Research Question 9 Theoretical Rationale 9 Assumptions 10 Summary 11 Chapter 2 Review of the Literature 13 Introduction 13 Review of Academic Research 13 The Importance of Preschool 13 Public Preschool and Early Intervention Programs 16 Importance of Learning Behavioral and Social Emotional Skills in Preschool 20 Quality Preschool Programs 25 Social Economic Status And Public Preschool 27 Long Term Effects 30 Summary 31
Modification of in vitro adherence of Streptococcus mutans by plant lectins.

Sucrose-dependent adherence appears to be the key element in the virulence of the cariogenic microbe, Streptococcus mutans. A number of different experiments have implicated glucans produced from sucrose by the microbe’s glucosyltransferases (GTF) as the primary factor in adherence. Therefore, it has been hypothesized that interference with either the enzyme or the glucans would be sufficient to reduce the organism’s virulence [reviewed by van Houte (1)]. This hypothesis has been at least partially validated. Treatment of viable S. mutans cells with glucanohydrolases (2–5) during glucan synthesis reduces in vitro adherence and in vivo caries incidence. Antibodies specific for partially purified GTF likewise effectively inhibit adherence of the microbe (6,7). Finally, mutants of S. mutans which are defective in glucan synthesis are neither adherent nor virulent (8,9).
The Bridge Connecting Theory to Practice - A Case Study of Universal Design Process

In a typical design process, the decision making process by which desirable and predictive outcomes are achieved is clearly defined by problem definition, goals and objectives setting, design criteria development, design solution generation and evaluation of the solutions. In contrast, the current literature on Universal Design typically jumps from Universal Design as an ideal and set of principles to Universal Design as an artifact. Without interpreting Universal Design principles into specific design criteria, it is not possible to understand design intent, reliably evaluate design outcomes, replicate design processes or outcomes, or generalize findings to other products and environments. In this paper, an universal design process has been proposed and illustrated in a case study of a universally designed voting system in which Universal Design has been applied throughout the design process in a consistent and explicit way to produce a desirable Universal Design outcome.
The Citizenship Paradox in a Transnational Age (a review of Hiroshi Motomura's "Americans in Waiting")

In "Americans in Waiting," Hiroshi Motomura traces the multiple ways in which law and policy have framed the relationship between immigrants and the body politic. He ultimately calls on Americans to honor the very best of our traditions by treating lawful immigrants as American citizens in waiting, presumptively entitled to all the prerogatives of membership. His vision, while compelling, comes up against a difficult problem. In a globalizing world marked by large-scale migration and transnational forms of association, we do indeed still need robust conceptions of national, geographically anchored citizenship to promote social cooperation. But the political institutions, such as citizenship, that support strong frameworks of belonging have shown themselves unable to fully absorb the influx of migrants with plural loyalties. The public opinion on which these frameworks depend often resists the inclusion of too many new members. In both the United States and Europe, we see evidence of an admissions-status tradeoff, or the dynamic whereby the acceptance of large numbers of immigrants is accompanied by parsimonious treatment of those immigrants, including through the withholding of legal status. The global phenomena of large-scale migration and transnational loyalties fragment national political communities, making it more difficult for the very institutions that traditionally have promote social cohesion to respond effectively to that fragmentation, rendering realization of ideals like Motomura's elusive. After developing this argument, I conclude by offering some thoughts on how to broach these tensions in a way that is true to Motomura's vision of immigrants as Americans in waiting, primarily by calling for a reinvigoration of local forms of territorial belonging.
Educational benefits of fusing magnetic resonance imaging with sonograms

Purpose To investigate whether providing sonographic (US)/MRI fusion images will enhance the ability of medical students and radiology residents to identify MSK anatomy on sonograms alone. Methods Medical students (n = 31) and radiology residents (n = 23) were each randomly divided into two groups: Group A and Group B. Subjects in Group A were shown 10 MSK sonograms with arrows pointing to a specific anatomic structure or anatomic region. Subjects in Group B were shown the exact same 10 annotated sonograms as Group A as well as an additional fusion image consisting of an MRI of the same anatomy in the same plane fused with the sonogram without arrows. Sonograms and MRI were obtained from adult patients who consented to have their images used. The anatomic regions included the shoulder, hip, and pelvis. Both groups were given the same 10-question multiple choice examination to identify the anatomic structure that the arrow was marking on the sonogram. The transducer's location was given for every question. One minute was allowed to answer each question. The Wilcoxon rank sum test was used to assess if there was a difference between Group A and Group B in both the medical student and the radiology resident cohorts. Results Medical students: subjects in Group A (n = 16) gave the correct answers in 33.8% of the cases (54/160). Subjects in Group B (n = 15) gave correct answers in 26.0% of the cases (39/150) (p value <0.110). Radiology residents: subjects in Group A (n = 11) gave correct answers in 40.9% of the cases (45/110). Subjects in Group B (n = 12) gave correct answers in 72.5% of the cases (87/120) (p value <0.001). Conclusion The addition of a fusion MRI/US image enhances radiology residents' ability to identify MSK US anatomy accurately compared with the sonogram alone. The medical students, however, did not show improvement with the addition of the fusion MRI/sonogram. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 42:257–263, 2014
The Trapped Electron Spectra from the Starfish Detonation and from the Outer Belt in the Fall of 1962

A brief summary of some of the electron spectra measured in the fall of 1962 is presented. Measurements were made with a five-channel magnetic electron spectrometer covering the range of 325 to 3250 keV.
Models and Metaphors in Groupware: Towards a Group-Centered Design

This paper reports on user experiences with the introduction of a groupware system in a government ministry. Our findings suggest that users understood the system as supporting collaboration, yet they had difficulties in understanding and using the groupware due to: 1) the lack of corresponding representation in the user’s actual working life, 2) the reluctance to change personal work habits in order to develop shared group conventions, 3) the organization’s influence through strict codes and procedures, and 4) the different models of cooperative work that users and designers developed. We recommend that designers and practitioners focus training and analysis on developing a shared representation of the group toward its work and the groupware system.
DNA for Delinquency: Compulsory DNA Collection and a Juvenile's Best Interest

Thirty states and the federal government compel DNA collection from juveniles based on a finding of juvenile delinquency. A main justification for doing so has been that it deters recidivism and promotes rehabilitation, furthering the goals of the juvenile court and consistent with the court’s role as a “protecting parent.” There is little empirical evidence, however, that compulsory DNA collection deters people from committing crimes or fosters their rehabilitation. Whatever specific deterrence DNA databasing may achieve is certainly diminished with respect to juveniles, who are less deterrable than adults. This undermines the best-interest rationale for collecting DNA from juveniles. Indeed, to the extent that criminal justice contact has a criminogenic effect on juveniles, DNA collection from juveniles could produce unintended, perverse consequences.Consistent with recent Supreme Court jurisprudence, this Article marshals scientific and psychosocial evidence regarding juveniles to outline a developmental critique of the best-interest justification for DNA collection from juveniles adjudicated delinquent. It also asserts that the basis for treating children differently from adults does not reside solely, or even predominantly, in science. The modern conception of childhood (as a separate, protected space for those whose development must be guarded and promoted) demands, even more powerfully, perhaps, than the findings of adolescent brain science, that we not subject juveniles to compulsory DNA collection for purposes of databasing. At the very least, the aggregate collection of genetic data from juveniles adjudicated delinquent cannot be justified as being in their best interests.
Groin and hip pain due to fractures at or near the pubic symphysis

Three patients with fractures at or near the pubic symphysis presented with groin pain simulating hip fracture or arthritis. A 71-year-old osteoarthritic woman was treated with a nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) and exercises for right-sided sciatic pain after a minor fall, but developed left groin pain and tenderness over the pubic symphysis after two days of exercise. She had an impacted fracture of the left pubic symphysis which responded to use of a cane. The second patient was a 90-year-old woman with rheumatoid arthritis (on steroids) who complained of right hip pain after a series of falls in her home. Initially treated with Buck traction for a presumed hip fracture, she was later treated with heat and exercises after negative hip x-rays were obtained. Retrospective analysis of pelvic films and bone scan revealed a right pubic symphysis fracture. The third patient was an 83-year-old rheumatoid arthritic woman with inability to walk secondary to left groin pain. Pubic tomograms revealed disruption of the superior aspect, and bone scan showed increased uptake of the left pubic bone. She was treated with moist heat, rest, and NSAID. Twenty-four cases of os pubis fractures without major trauma or symphysis disruption have been reported. All patients had osteoporosis, and six had rheumatoid arthritis. Our three cases are presented to increase awareness of pubic symphysis fractures as a cause for groin pain, especially in patients with osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Do bootstrap confidence procedures behave well uniformly in P

An important statistical problem is to construct a confidence set for some functional T(P) of some unknown probability distribution P. Typically, this involves approximating the sampling distribution Jn(P) of some pivot based on a sample of size n from P. A bootstrap procedure is to estimate Jn(P) by Jn(Pn), where Pn is the empirical measure based on a sample of size n from P. Typically, one has that Jn(P) and Jn(Pn) are close in an appropriate sense. Two questions are addressed in this note. Are Jn(P) and Jn(Pn) uniformly close as P varies as well? If so, do confidence statements about T(P) possess a corresponding uniformity property? In the case T(P) = P, the answer to the first questions is yes; the answer to the second is no. However, bootstrap confidence statements about T(P) can be made uniform over a restricted, though large, class of P. Similar results apply to other functional T(P). La construction d'une region de confiance pour une fonctionnelle T(P) d'une distribution de probabilite P inconnue, constitue un probleme statistique important. La solution d'un tel probleme fait habituellement appel a une approximation de la distribution echantillonnale, Jn(P), d'un pivot base sur un echantillon de taille n provenant de P. Une procedure de type “bootstrap” consiste a estimer Jn(P) par Jn(Pn), Pn etant la mesure empirique basee sur un echantillon de taille n provenant de P. En general Jn(P) et Jn(Pn) sont proches dans un certain sens. La presente note aborde deux questions. Est-ce que Jn(P) et Jn(Pn) demeurent uniformement proches lorsque P varie? Si oui, est-ce que les enonces de confiance relativement a T(P) repondent eux aussi a une propriete d'uniformite? Dans le cas ou T(P) = P la reponse a la premiere question est oui, mais la reponse a la deuxieme question est non. Toutefois, les enonces de confiance obtenus par la procedure bootstrap peuvent etre rendus uniformes par rapport a une classe restreinte, bien que assez grande, de distributions P. Des resultats similaires s'appliquent a d'autres fonctionnelles T(P).
8-Bromo-7-hydroxyquinoline as a Photoremovable Protecting Group for Physiological Use: Mechanism and Scope

Two-photon excitation (2PE) of “caged” biomolecules represents a powerful method to investigate the temporal and spatial relevance of physiological function in real time and on living tissue, because the excitation volume can be restricted to 1 fL. Additionally, low-energy IR light is used, which minimizes tissue destruction and enables deeper penetration into tissue preparations. Exploitation of this technology for studying cell physiology requires the further development of photoremovable protecting groups with sufficient sensitivity to 2PE for use in “caged” compounds. 8-Bromo-7-hydroxyquinoline (BHQ) is efficiently photolyzed by classic 1PE (365 nm) and 2PE (740 nm) under simulated physiological conditions (aqueous buffer of high ionic strength, pH 7.2) to release carboxylates, phosphates, and diolsfunctional groups commonly found on bioactive molecules such as neurotransmitters, nucleic acids, and drugs. It is stable in the dark, soluble in water, and exhibits low levels of fluorescence, which will e...
Modeling impacts of increased urban vegetation on ozone air quality in the South Coast Air Basin

Abstract This paper analyzes the possible effects of increased urban vegetation on the ozone air quality in California's South Coast Air Basin (SoCAB). Air quality impacts are accounted for through mesoscale meteorological and photochemical modeling of a late-August period. The simulations indicate that the net effect of increased urban vegetation is a decrease in ozone concentrations if the additional vegetation (trees) are low emitters. Hydrocarbon-emitting tree species have negative impacts on air quality. Episode-specific simulations in this study suggest that trees emitting roughly more than 2 μg g−1 h−1 of isoprene (micrograms of isoprene per gram dry-leaf mass per hour) and 1 μg g−1 h−1 of monoterpenes should not be introduced in the SoCAB.
A novel high-throughput method for accurate, rapid, and economical measurement of multiple type 1 diabetes autoantibodies.

Prediction of Type 1 diabetes for study of preventive therapies requires screening the general population, where 85% of new cases occur. Even with HLA-based prescreening, nearly 20% of all children will need multiple serum autoantibody testings. High-throughput, economical, and accurate methods are therefore essential. We have developed such a radiobinding method, using 96-well microtiter plates and a novel immune complex capture method via membrane-bound Protein A. Each microtiter plate contained a standard negative control serum, and low-, medium-, and high-level positive control sera. All sera were evaluated in triplicate. This readily allowed quality control criteria both for triplicates of individual sera and for each 96-well plate. Inter-assay coefficients of variation (CVs) were all ≤16%, while intra-assay CVs were all ≤10%. The assay was found to be sensitive (to detect autoantibodies in patients) and specific (low reactivity in thousands of healthy volunteers). The format worked well using diverse antigens such as 35S-met-GAD65, 35S-met-ICA512/IA2, 35S-met-Phogrin, and 125I-insulin, and could be used for simultaneous screening of reactivity to both GAD65 and ICA512/IA2 in the same well. Diagnostic accuracy compared favorably with microcentrifuge tube-based Protein A-agarose GAD65 and IA2 autoantibody radiobinding assays and with acid–charcoal–polyethylene glycol (PEG) based competitive insulin autoantibody assays. In the case of 125I-insulin, comparing signal in the absence versus presence of cold insulin competitor was not necessary. Total serum volumes required were only 6 μl for GAD and ICA512, and only 15 μl for IAA. The method costs less than all other commonly used formats, and should be useful for population screening.
Brain Catechol Synthesis: Control by Brain Tyrosine Concentration

Brain catechol synthesis was estimated by measuring the rate at which brain dopa levels rose following decarboxylase inhibition. Dopa accumulation was accelerated by tyrosine administration, and decreased by treatments that lowered brain tyrosine concentrations (for example, intraperitoneal tryptophan, leucine, or parachlorophenylalanine). A low dose of phenylalanine elevated brain tyrosine without accelerating dopa synthesis. Our findings raise the possibility that nutritional and endocrine factors might influence brain catecholamine synthesis by controlling the availability of tyrosine.
Bis[1,3-bis(trimethylsilyl)allyl]cobalt(II), a stable electron-deficient allyl complex.

The title compound, bis[(1,2,3-η)-(2E)-1,3-bis(trimethylsilyl)-prop-2-enyl]cobalt(II), [Co(C 9 H 21 Si 2 ) 2 ], is a homoleptic allyl complex with η 3 -bound ligands. The Co-C distances range from 1.996 (3) to 2.096 (3) A and the allyl ligands adopt staggered, nearly parallel, arrangements around the Co atom. The trimethylsilyl groups are in syn-anti conformations; the steric shielding they provide to the metal is probably responsible for the thermal stability of the compound.
A two-way shuttlebox for testing nonhuman primates

The construction of a two-way shuttlebox suitable for testing nonhuman primates, such as rhesus macaques, is described. Special mention is made of those aspects of design and construction necessary to prevent subjects from solving experimental tasks in unforeseen and unwanted ways.
Radiology workstations for the future

Researchers around the world are developing computer workstations designed to enable radiologists to display and process radiologic images in a single integrated environment. For the first time in 1992, the RSNA Electronic Communications Committee sponsored an infoRAD Workstation Exhibit at RSNA '92, the scientific assembly and annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America. The purpose of the exhibit was to demonstrate new developments in workstations to attendees of RSNA '92, to offer hands-on experience with a variety of workstation functionalities and user interfaces, and to provide a hands-on refresher course on workstations. The infoRAD workstation exhibit was a noncommercial, educational exhibit comprised of 12 workstation exhibits designed by university-affiliated researchers. Each exhibitor had the opportunity to lecture about his or her research in one of the theaters set up in the infoRAD exhibit area. A questionnaire was distributed to attendees to assess the value of the workstation exhibits.© (1993) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
A systems biology perspective on sVEGFR1: its biological function, pathogenic role and therapeutic use

Angiogenesis is the growth of new capillaries from pre-existent microvasculature. A wide range of pathological conditions, from atherosclerosis to cancer, can be attributed to either excessive or deficient angiogenesis. Central to the physiological regulation of angiogenesis is the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) system--its ligands and receptors (VEGFRs) are thus prime molecular targets of pro-angiogenic and anti-angiogenic therapies. Of growing interest as a prognostic marker and therapeutic target in angiogenesis-dependent diseases is soluble VEGF receptor-1 (sVEGFR1, also known as sFlt-1)--a truncated version of the cell membrane-spanning VEGFR1. For instance, it is known that sVEGFR1 is involved in the endothelial dysfunction characterizing the pregnancy disorder of pre-eclampsia, and sVEGFR1's therapeutic potential as an anti-angiogenic agent is being evaluated in pre-clinical models of cancer. This mini review begins with an examination of the protein domain structure and biomolecular interactions of sVEGFR1 in relation to the full-length VEGFR1. A synopsis of known and inferred physiological and pathological roles of sVEGFR1 is then given, with emphasis on the utility of computational systems biology models in deciphering the molecular mechanisms by which sVEGFR1's purported biological functions occur. Finally, we present the need for a systems biology perspective in interpreting circulating VEGF and sVEGFR1 concentrations as surrogate markers of angiogenic status in angiogenesis-dependent diseases.
STUDIES ON SHELL FORMATION : IX. An Electron Microscope Study of Crystal Layer Formation in the Oyster

Details of crystal growth in the calcitostracum of Crassostrea virginica have been studied with the purpose of analyzing the formation of the overlapping rows of oriented tabular crystals characteristic of this part of the shell. Crystal elongation, orientation, and dendritic growth suggest the presence of strong concentration gradients in a thin layer of solution in which crystallization occurs. Formation of the overlapping rows can be explained by three processes observed in the shell: a two-dimensional tree-like dendritic growth in which one set of crystal branchings creeps over an adjacent set of branchings; three-dimensional dendritic growth; and growth by dislocation of crystal surfaces. Multilayers of crystals may thus be formed at one time. This is favored by infrequent secretion of a covering organic matrix which would inhibit crystal growth. The transitional zone covering the outer part of the calcitostracum and the inner part of the prismatic region is generally characterized by aggregates of small crystals with definite orientation. Growth in this zone appears to take place in a relatively homogeneous state of solution without strong concentration gradients. Thin membranes and bands of organic matrix were commonly observed in the transitional zone bordering the prismatic region. The membrane showed a very fine oriented network pattern.
Steplike Response Behavior of a New Vapochromic Platinum Complex Observed with Simultaneous Acoustic Wave Sensor and Optical Reflectance Measurements

We report the synthesis and characterization of a new vapochromic platinum compound, [Pt(CN−cyclododecyl)4][Pt(CN)4]. This compound is stable to 120 °C and reversibly sorbs three water molecules per formula unit at room temperature when it is exposed to 100% relative humidity. Dramatic changes in absorption and emission spectra are observed in response to water uptake. The vapor response characteristics of this material were further investigated by simultaneous optical reflectance and quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) measurements, using water as the test vapor. The sensing film on the QCM consisted of a mixture of the solid vapochromic powder dispersed in a hydrophobic vapor permeable polymer. The polymer was incorporated as a binder to adhere the sensing material to the QCM surface. Reflectance measurements were taken from the film on the QCM surface using a bifurcated fiber optic bundle incorporated into the flow cell. The vapor sorption characteristics of the vapochromic compound as determined by the ...
Effects of auditory and taste stimulation on sucking, heart rate, and movement in the newborn

Two experiments explored the Crook (1978) technique for studying neonatal taste responses. Crook presented drops of fluid through a nipple to the infant's mouth during pauses in non-nutritive sucking, and found shorter latencies to the next sucking burst for sucrose vs. no fluid, and longer bursts with increasing sweetness. The present studies investigated the effect of a particular apparatus noise which was coincident with fluid delivery. Two additional response measures, heart rate and limb movement, were explored as supplements to the sucking variables. Experiment 1 showed that presentation of the low intensity complex sound shortened latencies to suck, relative to no-sound trials. In Experiment 2, sound and fluid stimulation together shortened response latency. Results suggest cautious use of the latency measure in studies comparing fluid with no-fluid stimulation, but this caution does not apply to tests involving different taste intensities, as a pump sound accompanies the delivery of all concentrations. Heart rate and limb movement were shown to reliably differentiate responses to fluid vs. no-fluid stimulation.
Rise of waterpipe smoking

A well developed global public health epidemic in need of a clear and comprehensive regulatory approach
Identifying patient and physician characteristics that affect compliance with antihypertensive medications.

Background: Compliance with antihypertensive medications is essential to the clinical management of hypertension. Poor compliance with antihypertensive medications has often been associated with treatment failure and disease progression. Objective: To identify patient and prescriber characteristics that may influence compliance with antihypertensive medications. Method: We used pharmacy records within the Veterans Health Administration, a database which included 1292 patients and 656 physicians over a 2-year time period from April 1, 1996, to April 1, 1998. The level of compliance with antihypertensive medications was assessed using a measure developed for this purpose within the Administration. Three separate ordinary least squares regression models were conducted to ascertain the effects of patient and physician characteristics on compliance. Results: Despite the importance of compliance in the clinical management of hypertension, poor compliance with antihypertensive drug treatment was still widespread. Patients who were younger and less active in their treatment decisions tended to be less compliant (P < 0·05 and 0·05, respectively). Health care providers who were older, residents in speciality care, and physicians (as compared with non-physicians) had patients who were also less likely to be compliant (P < 0·01, 0·01, and 0·05, respectively). Conclusion: These findings suggest that in order to increase the effectiveness of medical care for hypertension, it is important to improve compliance with antihypertensive agents.
Alcohol availability and alcohol-related motor vehicle accidents

The impact of alcohol availability on alcohol-related motor vehicle accidents centres on the sensitivity of consumption to changes in the full price of alcohol – the dollar price of alcohol plus the time and travel costs associated with acquiring alcohol. Reducing the number of licensed alcohol vendors raises the time and travel costs of alcohol; if alcohol consumption is responsive to this price increase, then drinking and driving may decrease. Using data on the 254 counties in the US state of Texas, the results in this paper show that alcohol availability has a significant impact on alcohol-related motor vehicle accidents. Thus, alcohol vendor restrictions can be an important policy tool in reducing such accidents.