cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A New Additive-Manufactured Cementless Highly Porous Titanium Acetabular Cup for Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty-Early Two-Year Follow Up.

INTRODUCTION Additive-manufacturing technologies are increasingly being used, not only to create acetabular components with porous coating architecture very similar to the complex trabecular structure of cancellous bone, but also for producing the entire implant in a single step. The aim of this study is to assess two-year clinical and radiological outcomes of a new additive-manufactured cup in primary total hip arthroplasty (THA). MATERIALS AND METHODS We reviewed 266 primary THAs (254 patients) performed in our institution between December 2016 and December 2018 using a new highly porous titanium acetabulum shell fabricated via additive manufacturing. Clinical and functional outcomes were measured using SF/VR-12 and HOOS JR to determine patient satisfaction with surgery. Radiographs were assessed to determine the presence of migration, radiolucency, and loosening. Patients records were reviewed to assess cup survivorship in terms of all-cause revisions and revision for aseptic cup loosening. RESULTS At a minimum of two-year follow up (range: 2-3.45 years), the patient cohort demonstrated significant improvement in postoperative functional scores (hip disability and osteoarthritis outcome score for joint replacement [HOOS JR.] and clinical scores (12-item short-form health survey [SF/VR-12]) (p<0.001). One cup developed progressive radiolucent lines at the prosthesis-bone interface consistent with loosening and was revised. The overall acetabular component two-year survivorship free of all-cause failure was 97.4% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 95.5-99.4%). When aseptic loosening of the acetabular component was used as the failure endpoint, the two-years survivorship rate was 99.6% (95% CI: 98.9-100%). CONCLUSION Highly porous titanium cementless acetabular cups produced via additive-manufacturing showed promising early clinical and radiological results in primary THA with low rates of aseptic loosening. Further follow-up studies are needed to assess the long-term survivorship and outcomes of this new acetabular component.
Effect of intensive blood pressure lowering on left atrial remodeling in the SPRINT.

Upstream therapy of atrial remodeling may decrease atrial fibrillation and associated thromboembolism. We examined the impact of intensive BP lowering on ECG-defined left atrial abnormalities in the SPRINT. SPRINT was a randomized clinical trial comparing outcomes when a systolic BP of 4000 μV × ms. Secondary outcomes were regression of the left atrial abnormality and the change in PTFV1 from baseline across follow-up ECGs. Cox regression was used to examine the associations between treatment assignment and incident left atrial abnormality and its regression. We used linear mixed models to examine the changes in PTFV1. Of 9361 SPRINT participants, 7738 qualified for this analysis, of whom 5544 did not have baseline left atrial abnormalities. Intensive BP management was not associated with incident left atrial abnormality (HR, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.87-1.07) or regression of the baseline left atrial abnormality (HR, 1.09; 95% CI, 0.98-1.21). The change in PTFV1 from baseline through follow-up did not differ significantly between treatment groups (difference in μV × ms per year, 6; 95% CI, -67 to 79). Thus, among patients in a randomized clinical trial, we found no difference in the progression or regression of ECG-defined left atrial abnormalities with intensive BP management compared to standard BP management.
Error-Free Kerr Comb-Driven SiP Microdisk Transmitter

We demonstrate the first SiP microdisk modulated Kerr comb source with BER better than 1E-9 up to 16 Gb/s/λ. The modulated lines span 44.3 nm bandwidth, paving the path to a comb-driven integrated SiP transmitter.
Effect of Probiotic Supplementation on Glycemic Outcomes in Patients with Abnormal Glucose Metabolism: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

INTRODUCTION The effectiveness of probiotics in patients with abnormal glucose metabolism has not been clearly demonstrated. It is also unclear if outcomes are consistent across different probiotic formulations. METHODS A literature search was conducted using PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane CENTRAL database from inception through May 2020. Randomized controlled trials that evaluated the effect of probiotics on fasting blood glucose (FBG) or hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) in patients with prediabetes, type 2 diabetes mellitus, or gestational diabetes were included. Outcomes of interest included FBG, HbA1c, fasting insulin, homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), homeostatic model assessment of β-cell function (HOMA-B), and quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI). Weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using the DerSimonian and Laird random-effects model. RESULTS 31 studies involving 1,948 participants were included in this analysis. Compared to control, probiotics had a significant favorable effect on FBG (WMD -5.77 mg/dL, 95% CI -8.48 to -3.06), HbA1c (WMD -0.32%, 95% CI -0.47 to -0.18), fasting insulin (WMD -2.95 µIU/mL, 95% CI -3.76 to -2.14), HOMA-IR (WMD -0.82, 95% CI -1.05 to -0.59), HOMA-B (WMD -14.86, 95% CI -24.57 to -5.16), and QUICKI (WMD 0.015, 95% CI 0.011-0.019). Further, probiotics were associated with favorable outcomes on all parameters at doses between 1 and 10 × 109 colony-forming unit per day (p < 0.004 for all) and formulations containing 2-4 strains (p < 0.05 for all). DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION Probiotics appear to have a modest effect on glycemic parameters in patients with abnormal glucose metabolism. Due to the limited number of trials conducted in patients with prediabetes, more studies are warranted in this population.
Repertoire Conventionality in Major US Symphony Orchestras: Factors Influencing Management's Programming Choices

We examined the relationship between funding sources and programming for major US symphony orchestras for the 2001 through 2007 seasons. We find that increased levels of funding from the federal government and businesses encourage more nonconventional programming, and increased levels of funding from local government and endowments encourage more conventional programming. In addition, yearly events such as a composer's anniversary and higher unemployment influence programming decisions. Given the challenging financial environment for symphony orchestras, we discussed programming choices that managers could implement to reduce budget deficits. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Biochemical and morphologic correlates of cardiac ischemia

Functions of membrane-linked myocardial systems and morphology of the myocardial cell were examined in normal and acutely and chronically ischemic myocardium. Hemodynamic measurements of ischemic tissue showed depressed force development as well as decreased (and variable) ventricular peak pressures. Mitochondrial respiratory function was reduced, with state 3 (phosphorylating) respiration showing the most marked impairment. Losses in cytochromes c and a 3 were observed. Diminished mitochondrial calcium uptake with subsequent release of the calcium taken up during continued respiratory activity was characteristic of severely ischemic tissue, that is, 7 days after ligation. Defects in the carnitine-mediated oxidation of palmitic acid in isolated mitochondria were severe between 1 and 8 days after ligation. Losses in tissue carnitine also occurred simultaneously with decreased mitochondrial carnitine palmityltransferase activity. During this period the oxidation of hexanoic acid was unaffected. The binding and release cycle of calcium was studied in sarcoplasmic reticulum (cardiac relaxing system) isolated from control tissues and from acutely and chronically ischemic heart. An early impairment in the release phase of calcium from an acutely ischemic preparation occurred at times (12 to 60 minutes after ligation) when the other membrane-associated functions maintained normal integrity. In the chronically ischemic dog, there was marked impairment of calcium-binding variables in the first 2 weeks after ligation. This impairment occurred at times when both mitochondrial and sodium, potassium adenosine triphosphatase (Na + ,K + -ATPase) activity levels were severely impaired. The Na + ,K + -ATPase activity level was consistently lower than the control level by 7 days after ligation. However, there was no change in kinetic indexes or in the ouabainbinding characteristics in the functional enzyme remaining. Morphologic studies of tissue taken from left posterior papillary muscle 3 to 8 days after ligation revealed significant and specific changes in ultrastructure (disrupted Z and I bands, appearance of pseudo-N band and appearance of dense bodies in mitochondria); the greatest occurrence of damaged cells occurred 7 to 8 days after ligation.
Electrostriction measurements in diffuse phase transition materials and perovskite glass ceramics

Materials with diffuse phase transitions are of much interest for applications in very smart systems. The main advantage they have over conventional materials is the tunable nature of their nonlinear properties such as electrostriction. Electrostriction is the fundamental mechanism of electromechanical coupling in these and all insulating materials, and is of interest for sensor, actuator, and tunable transducer applications. Electrostriction measurements are also of interest in trying to better understand the nature of the diffuse transition. In this study, a group of ferroics (Ca/PMN-PT, La/PMN-PT, PLZT, BTS, and BST) with diffuse transitions were tested using the first converse effect. This technique involves measuring the stress dependence of the dielectric stiffness /spl beta//sub ij/ to obtain electrostrictive tensor coefficients. This method has been previously verified by measuring separated Q/sub ijkl/ coefficients for low-K dielectrics. Q/sub 33/ coefficients of the order of 10/sup -3/ m/sup 4//C/sup 2/ were obtained for the ferroics. A figure of merit is proposed for evaluating these ferroics in sensor applications, based on their fractional change in capacitance under applied stress. A preliminary correlation of the electrostriction effects with the diffuseness of the phase transition (DPT) is also done. A family of perovskite glass ceramics with different modifiers that had been subjected to different ceramming temperatures was also investigated and found to have promising sensor applications. The electrostrictive and dielectric properties were found to vary with the heat treatment.
The Rational Design of Human Rights Agreements

Looking at a random sample of international agreements across the issues areas of economics, environment, human rights, and security, it is striking that human rights agreements (HRAs) are significantly more likely to be imprecise than agreements in any other issue area. Is that because HRAs are just meaningless scraps of papers? Or is this imprecision a deliberate, rational choice by states/negotiators designing these agreements? This paper aims to unpack the “black box” of HRAs in order to understand what renders them to be less precise than other international agreements. Drawing on Rational Design theory, we argue that the imprecision is a rational, purposive response to the recurrent cooperation problems faced by states negotiating such agreements. This analysis is the first consideration of how the Rational Design cooperation problems interact, since Rational Design posits a series of univariate conjectures. We focus on two problems in particular: Distribution problems and Coordination problems. We argue that, because HRAs are more likely than any other issue area to be characterized by Distribution problems without Coordination problems, large, heterogeneous groups of states with various cultures, ideologies, and institutional differences can solve the underlying cooperation problems in human rights through imprecise language, reservations, and optional protocols. We examine our conjectures using the Continent of International Law (COIL) dataset, and preliminary results suggest that HRAs could indeed be rationally designed.
A Model for the Perception of Morse Code-Like Signals1

A model for the perception of some Morse Code-like signals is developed, tested, and generalized. In the development certain formal relations among the signals provide the bases for hypotheses concerning the relative confusability of signal pairs. The measure of confusability used in testing the hypotheses is the percentage of “same” responses to each pair in a Same-Different judgment task. The judgment data give very strong support to the hypotheses of the model. Multidimensional analyses of the data matrix reveal three prominent dimensions which are interpreted as Temporal Length, Sound-to-Silence Ratio, and Dash First—Dot First. Finally, a generalization of the model is described.
Forensic biology--is recombinant DNA technology in its future?

Forensic biology—paternity testing and the testing of biological evidence materials—has advanced dramatically over the last 15 years. Much of this progress has been fueled by the discovery of many new genetic polymorphisms among human proteins. A number of these new polymorphisms have worked their way into the forensic science repertoire with the result that more definitive genetic typing information can now be provided to the legal system. There has been a concomitant broadening of the technological base of the field as electrophoretic techniques have taken their place beside the traditional immunological and chemical testing procedures. These developments are all well documented in Gaensslen's Source-book [1].
MannDB – A microbial database of automated protein sequence analyses and evidence integration for protein characterization

Background: MannDB was created to meet a need for rapid, comprehensive automated protein sequence analyses to support selection of proteins suitable as targets for driving the development of reagents for pathogen or protein toxin detection. Because a large number of open-source tools were needed, it was necessary to produce a software system to scale the computations for whole-proteome analysis. Thus, we built a fully automated system for executing software tools and for storage, integration, and display of automated protein sequence analysis and annotation data. Description: MannDB is a relational database that organizes data resulting from fully automated, highthroughput protein-sequence analyses using open-source tools. Types of analyses provided include predictions of cleavage, chemical properties, classification, features, functional assignment, post-translational modifications, motifs, antigenicity, and secondary structure. Proteomes (lists of hypothetical and known proteins) are downloaded and parsed from Genbank and then inserted into MannDB, and annotations from SwissProt are downloaded when identifiers are found in the Genbank entry or when identical sequences are identified. Currently 36 open-source tools are run against MannDB protein sequences either on local systems or by means of batch submission to external servers. In addition, BLAST against protein entries in MvirDB, our database of microbial virulence factors, is performed. A web client browser enables viewing of computational results and downloaded annotations, and a query tool enables structured and free-text search capabilities. When available, links to external databases, including MvirDB, are provided. MannDB contains whole-proteome analyses for at least one representative organism from each category of biological threat organism listed by APHIS, CDC, HHS, NIAID, USDA, USFDA, and WHO.
Postoperative spine infections: a retrospective analysis of 21 patients

A retrospective analysis was performed to identify the risk factors, onset, clinical presentation, management and outcome of 21 patients with postoperative spinal infection. There were 9 men and 12 women with a mean age of 49 years (range 23–76 years). There were 19 early and 2 late spine infections: 14 superficial and 7 deep. Wound drainage occurred in 90.74% of the patients at an average of 19 days after surgery (range 7–102 days). Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus was the most common bacterial isolate. Eighteen patients were treated with open debridement, application of an irrigation-suction device for 5–7 days, primary or delayed wound closure and antibiotic administration. Removal of the instrumentation was necessary in three patients. Eighteen of the 21 patients had pain relief and all patients were infection free, 12 months after initiation of the treatment. One patient, who had instrumentation removal, required re-operation for spine instability and pseudarthrosis.
Neurotrophin receptors and perineural invasion in desmoplastic melanoma

Background Perineural invasion (PNI) in desmoplastic melanoma is associated with increased local recurrence and reduced disease-free survival. The biological mechanisms underlying PNI remain unclear although several lines of evidence implicate neurotrophins and their receptors. Objectives We investigated the expression of p75NGFR and TrkA, and the presence of functional RET polymorphism (RETp) as they relate to PNI in desmoplastic melanoma. Methods In all, 43 cases of desmoplastic melanoma were immunohistochemically evaluated for TrkA and p75NGFR expression and RETp was detected by direct DNA sequencing. Results PNI was present in 67% of cases. On univariate analysis, p75NGFR was associated with PNI (expression detected in 79% of PNI-positive cases compared with 36% of PNI-negative cases, P = .005), increased Breslow depth ( P = .007), and greater Clark level ( P = .01). RETp was noted in 28% of cases but was not significantly associated with PNI ( P = .27) or other histopathologic variables. TrkA expression was absent in all cases. PNI was associated with increased Breslow depth and Clark level ( P = .01 and P = .009, respectively). Controlling for the association between p75NGFR and depth, p75NGFR remained associated with an increased propensity for PNI (odds ratio 4.68, P = .04). Limitations The sample size was limited. Conclusion In desmoplastic melanoma, p75NGFR expression is significantly associated with PNI and a more locally aggressive phenotype.
Hyperthyroidism and excessive thyrotropin secretion

Abstract A 44-year-old woman was found to have hyperthyroidism and elevated serum thyrotropin (TSH) levels. There was no evidence of a pituitary tumor or of abnormalities in the secretion of other pituitary hormones. A modest fall in serum TSH levels and 131I uptake by the thyroid gland was observed after tri-iodothyronine administration. TSH levels increased substantially during methimazole therapy. No increases occurred after administration of thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) either before or during treatment with methimazole. Administration of dexamethasone was followed by a prompt, though transient, fall in serum TSH levels. These findings suggest that the increased TSH secretion in this patient is due to excessive releasing hormone (TRH) secretion.
Disinfection of the causative agent of contagious equine metritis by Nolvasan and Roccal II

Abstract Haemophilus equigenitalis , the proposed name for the bacterium that causes contaginous equine metritis (CEM) was tested for sensitivity to the disinfectant solutions Nolvasan® (2% chlorhexidine diacetate) and Roccal II® (10 alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride). Bacteria (10 6 ) suspended in medium were inactivated in 10–20 min at 0°–2°C and in 2.5 min at 20°–22°C by a 3 : 128 dilution of Nolvasan. Roccal II, diluted 1 : 128, inactivated 10 6 bacteria in 2.5 min at 0°–2°C and 20°–22°C. These dilutions of the disinfectants inactivated H. equigenitalis (titers of 0.1–11.0 × 10 7 /ml) in vaginal exudates from infected mares and pure cultures suspended in medium (titers of 1–5 × 10 9 /ml) in 10 min at 0°–2°C and 20°–22°C when the exudates and cultures were dried on metal carriers. The limit of detection of survivors was 3–32 bacteria/ml. It is recommended that contaminated instruments and other metal surfaces encountered during CEM infections should be decontaminated with either disinfectant for 10 min before rinsing.
SPECTRAL ANALYSIS OF A CRY IS ABNORMAL IN INFANTS WHO HAVE MODERATE HYPERBILIRUBINEMIA

Wasz-Hockert et al have performed spectrographic analysis of the cries of infants with marked hyperbilirubinemia (greater than 20 mg/dl) and demonstrated cry abnormalities consistent with unstable glottic function. We undertook a study to determine if infants with moderate hyperbilirubinemia also exhibit evidence of glottal instability, as evidenced by increased variability of the fundamental frequency (fO) of their cries. We analyzed the cries of 90, 3-7 day old, term AGA infants who were normal except for a serum bilirubin concentration of 10-20 mg/dl and compared them to 829 healthy infants, matched for birthweight, gestational age, and age at recording, but who were without clinical jaundice. We recorded stimulated cries for 30 sec on tape by uniform method, located periods of phonation and extracted cry parameters using spectral analysis on at least twenty consecutive 25 msec blocks during the first cry utterance. Variability of fO (fOvar) was determined by calculating the difference between the minimum fO and the maximum fO occurring during the cry utterance. Although the mean fO for the two groups of infants were similar (432±92 vs 430±82), there was significantly increased fO variability in the jaundiced infants (f0var=429±224) when compared to control infants (f0var=354±210, p<.001). Infants with moderate jaundice have evidence of unstable glottic function, similar to that reported for infants with bilirubin values greater than 20/mg/dl. This abnormality may be an early manifestation of the central nervous system effects of bilirubin.
Deoxyribonucleic Acid Antibody: A Method to Detect Its Primary Interaction with Deoxyribonucleic Acid

Antibody to DNA in human serums can be detected by the ammonium sulfate method. This sensitive and specific technique, which measures the primary interaction between DNA and antibody to DNA, is based on the observation that free DNA is soluble in 50-percent saturated ammonium sulfate whereas antibody-bound DNA is insoluble.
Race, associational involvement, and political participation

Abstract Previous research on racial differences in group affiliation and activism examines the role of organizational involvement both as a form of social participation and as an independent predictor of political participation. This study is based on data from a national sample of the 1987 adult population that replicated the basic measures of social and political participation from Verba and Nie’s classic study. We separate our respondents into homogeneous racial groups and specify organizational participation by type of association to determine which group joins what organization and the relevance of such patterns for involvement in the polity. Although our findings only provide mixed support for the claim advanced by other scholars that Blacks’ social activity exceeds or equals that of Whites once controls for sociodemographic status are taken into consideration, these results provide clear evidence that Black and White organizations differ in their capacity to motivate their members for political activity.
Orthopaedic case of the month: A 30-year-old woman with a painful forearm mass

A 30-year-old woman with a history of chronic congenital lymphedema and overgrowth of the right upper extremity presented with a visibly inflamed, reddened, nodular, palpable mass arising from the skin on the dorsal aspect of her right forearm of 9 months duration. The patient described the initial appearance as three small pimples on the skin of the forearm that coalesced and became larger. There were no fevers, weight loss, or night sweats. The patient was otherwise healthy. Eventually the mass became tender and painful, which caused her to seek medical attention. On presentation, there was an irregular, nodular, nontender, cutaneous mass that was approximately 3 9 3 cm surrounded by a 1-cm halo of erythema. Sensation and motor function were grossly intact. She had no history of malignancy or radiation treatments. Surgical history was significant for several surgical debulking procedures and liposuction of the right forearm and arm. The entire upper extremity from shoulder through the fingers was diffusely enlarged approximately four times the circumference of her contralateral normal upper extremity. It seemed to involve the skin and subcutaneous tissue. There were no palpable enlarged lymph nodes in the axilla or epitrochlear region although these areas were difficult to palpate because of the chronic lymphedema. Laboratory studies showed complete blood count, chemistries, coagulation analysis, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and C-reactive protein were all normal. MRI was performed (Figs. 1–3). Based on the history, physical examination, and imaging studies, what is the differential diagnosis?
Impact of the Trans-Pacific Partnership on China’s Textiles and Apparel Exports: A Quantitative Analysis

This study intends to quantify the potential effect of the implementation of the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) on China’s textiles and apparel exports. Results show that, first, China’s apparel exports to the United States, Japan, and the NAFTA region will significantly decline after the TPP. Second, trade diversion effect caused by Japan will negatively offset the potential expansion of China’s textile exports to Vietnam and other Asian TPP members after the TPP. Third, Japan’s accession to the TPP will impose substantial negative impact on China’s textile and apparel exports in the TPP era.
On boundary crossings of the samplepth quantile

LetX1,X2,... be a sequence of independent random variables with distributionF. Suppose that 0<p<1, thatξ p is the uniquepth quantile ofF, and thatξ p,n is the samplepth quantile ofX1,...,X n . Ifb(n)→0+ sufficiently slowly, then $$N(b) = \sum\limits_{n = 1}^\infty {I\left\{ {\left| {\xi _{p,n} - \xi _p } \right| > b(n)} \right\}} $$ and $$L(b) = \sup \left\{ {n:\left| {\xi _{p,n} - \xi _p } \right| > b(n)} \right\}$$ are proper random variables (finite with probability one). In this paper we investigate the moment behavior of exp{Nb2(N)} and exp{Lb2(L)}.
Stopped-flow, classical, and dynamic light scattering analysis of matrix protein binding to nucleocapsids of vesicular stomatitis virus.

During the process of assembly of enveloped viruses, binding of the nucleoprotein core of the virus (nucleocapsid) to the host membrane is mediated by the viral matrix (M) protein. Light scattering properties of vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) nucleocapsids and nucleocapsid-M protein (NCM) complexes assembled in vivo were determined following solubilizaton of the virion envelope with detergents at varying ionic strength to vary the extent of M protein binding. Three factors were found to contribute to the light scattering properties of VSV nucleocapsids: their conformation, extent of self-association, and amount of bound M protein. All three were affected by changes in ionic strength but could be distinguished by several parameters. Conformational changes in nucleocapsids and NCM complexes occurred rapidly (millisecond time scale) upon changing salt concentration and were reflected in changes in the angular dependence of light scattering intensity (i.e., changes in radius of gyration, RG). Changes in extent of self-association occurred relatively slowly (seconds to minutes time scale) and could be distinguished by the concentration dependence of the apparent molecular mass and diffusion coefficient of the NCM complex. Changes in M protein binding occurred on an intermediate time scale (t1/2 approximately one s) and reflected changes in both molecular mass and RG. The data presented here provide criteria for assessing binding of M protein to nucleocapsids under conditions of minimal perturbation of the NCM complex assembled in vivo and at low protein concentrations so that self-association of the NCM complex was minimal and reversible.
Zespół policystycznych jajników u nastoletnich dziewcząt

Streszczenie Zespol policystycznych jajnikow stanowi cale spektrum zaburzen obejmujących przewlekle rzadkie owulacje lub brak owulacji, nadmiar androgenow, otylośc, insulinoopornośc i policystyczne jajniki. Rozpoznanie to pociąga za sobą konsekwencje odnoszące sie do calego zycia – podwyzszone ryzyko nieplodności, rozrostu lub raka endometrium, zespolu metabolicznego, cukrzycy typu 2 i chorob ukladu krązenia. Brak jednoznacznych kryteriow diagnostycznych sprawia, ze rozpoznanie tego czesto wystepującego stanu stanowi wyzwanie. Ze wzgledu na rozne objawy kliniczne i obrazy zespolu policystycznych jajnikow (PCOS) nastoletnie dziewczeta i mlode kobiety mogą zglaszac sie do roznych lekarzy, w tym lekarzy rodzinnych, pediatrow, internistow, ginekologow, dermatologow lub endokrynologow (dzieciecych i leczących doroslych). Leczenie nastoletnich dziewcząt z PCOS obejmuje zmniejszenie masy ciala, jezeli zespol ten wiąze sie z otylością, zalecenie wysilku fizycznego oraz rozne interwencje farmakologiczne. Poniewaz u wielu kobiet cierpiących na PCOS objawy pojawiają sie w wieku kilkunastu lat, wazne jest, aby pediatrzy znali to schorzenie i byli w stanie opracowac plan postepowania oraz rozwazyc leczenie mające na celu zlagodzenie objawow i zmniejszenie ryzyka dlugotrwalych nastepstw. Niniejszy przegląd koncentruje sie na rozpoznaniu i aktualnym postepowaniu w PCOS u nastoletnich dziewcząt.
Effect of dose and schedule on cefoperazone pharmacodynamics in an in vitro model of infection in a neutropenic host.

Abstract Previous studies have shown that cefoperazone given in frequent, large doses is effective in the treatment of infection in patients with cancer. The pharmacodynamics of 2- and 4-g doses of cefoperazone administered either as a single dose or at 12-hour intervals were studied in an in vitro model that simulates infection in a neutropenic patient. One strain each of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (minimal inhibitory concentration [MIC] = 2 μg/ml), Staphylococcus aureus (MIC = 1 μg/ml), Escherichia coli (MIC = 0.06 μg/ml), and Klebsiella pneumoniae (MIC = 0.25 μg/ml) was studied. The initial dose reduced the inoculum by approximately 3 logs for the Pseudomonas and the staphylococci and 3 to 5 logs for the other organisms. No significant differences in killing were found between the 2- and 4-g doses. Regrowth of Pseudomonas and staphylococci occurred with the single dose but not with the every-12-hour regimen. These data support the clinical use of cefoperazone in doses every 12 hours.
Environmental Implications of the Use of "Ice Ban" as a Prewetting Agent for Sodium Chloride

Ice Ban is the registered trade name of a group of agricultural byproducts patented for use as roadway deicing/anti-icing agents. Ice Ban is applied primarily in anti-icing operations as a direct liquid or prewetting agent. Because Ice Ban is far more expensive to use than the traditional chemicals for snow removal and ice control, it may be cost-effective only if it can reduce equipment corrosion, infrastructure damage, and the adverse environmental effects of traditional chemicals while maintaining at least the same level of service. A study was conducted to evaluate particular environmental effects of Ice Ban M50 when used as a prewetting agent for salt. The agent's effects on turf grass seed, freshwater minnows, and roadside vegetation were determined and compared with the effects of salt alone, salt prewetted with magnesium chloride, or both. When used as a prewetting liquid at the spinner, Ice Ban M50 had little impact on the effect of salt on turf grass seed germination, freshwater minnow mortality...
The importance of life-history stage and individual variation in the allorecognition system of a marine sponge

Abstract In marine invertebrates with complex life cycles, it may often be the case that trade-offs and behaviors differ between adult and larval stages. In this study, I examined the effects of life-history stage on allorecognition system function in the sponge, Haliclona sp. For sedentary marine invertebrates, allorecognition systems allow individuals to distinguish between genetically similar and distinct tissue they may encounter and are thought to reduce costly tissue fusion with individuals other than self or kin. Although it was found that sessile adults fused preferentially with self-tissue and exhibited a functioning allorecognition system, free-swimming larvae fused equally with sibling and non-sibling larvae resulting in swimming chimeras capable of successful metamorphosis, suggesting a stage-activated allorecognition system. In addition, adult sponges differed significantly in the propensity of their larvae to fuse suggesting variation in parental strategies. Analysis of larval swimming behavior indicated that larvae aggregate and are capable of increasing their encounters with other larvae and perhaps their probability of fusing in nature. The pursuit of fusion at this motile stage, along with evidence of a functioning adult allorecognition system, suggests that larvae may not express a recognition system, or that factors other than relatedness such as benefits to larval or adult chimeras, are involved in larval fusion and a stage-activated allorecognition system. In addition, this study demonstrates the presence of variation among individuals in the allorecognition system's ontogeny in the sponge Haliclona sp.
The Value of a p -Valueless Paper

As is common in current biomedical research, about 85% of original contributions in The American Journal of Gastroenterology in 2004 have reported p-values. However, none are reported in this issue's article by Abraham et al. who, instead, rely exclusively on effect size estimates and associated confidence intervals to summarize their findings. Authors using confidence intervals communicate much more information in a clear and efficient manner than those using p-values. This strategy also prevents readers from drawing erroneous conclusions caused by common misunderstandings about p-values. I outline how standard, two-sided confidence intervals can be used to measure whether two treatments differ or test whether they are clinically equivalent.
Molecular Basis of the Assembly and Budding of the Ebola Virus from the Plasma Membrane of Human Cells

Lipid enveloped viruses replicate and bud from the host cell where they acquire their lipid coat. The Ebola virus, which buds from the plasma membrane of the host cell causes viral hemorrhagic fever and has a high fatality rate. To date little is known about how the plasma membrane mediates budding and egress of the Ebola virus. My lab is investigating the molecular basis of the plasma membrane assembly, budding and egress of this virus, which is regulated by the matrix protein, VP40. We use biochemical and biophysical tools along with cellular imaging and viral replication assays to investigate how VP40 interacts with the plasma membrane of human cells to regulate viral replication. This presentation will outline the molecular basis of VP40 association with plasma membrane lipids and how lipid-protein interactions regulate VP40 oligomerization and plasma membrane bending. Furthermore, VP40 plasma membrane binding displays sensitivity to the lipid composition in the plasma membrane, which can be altered to inhibit Ebola assembly and egress.
Cross‐phyletic bioactivity of arthropod neurohormones and molluscan ganglion extracts: Evidence of an extended peptide family

Two structurally related arthropod neuropeptides, red pigment concentrating hormone (RPCH) and adipokinetic hormone (AKH), are potent excitors of the heart of the clam Mercenaria mercenaria. The response is bimodal: whereas the threshold for affected hearts is 1-3 X 10(-9) M, about 40% of the preparations are virtually unresponsive. Aqueous extracts of Mercenaria ganglia contain a substance which concentrates the red pigment in the erythrophores of intact destalked Uca pugilator and even of its isolated legs. This substance is retained on Sephadex G-15 and co-elutes with synthetic shrimp RPCH. The active fractions also concentrate the erythrophores and the leucophores of destalked shrimp (Penaeus). Neither dopamine nor the molluscan neuropeptide FMRFamide had any chromatophorotropic effect in these assays. The activity of the ganglion extracts was abolished by digestion with chymotrypsin. In conclusion, molluscan ganglion extracts contain a peptide factor, possibly an analog of RPCH, that concentrates the pigments of crustacean chromatophores by a direct action on the cells.
Spray-dried chitinosans. Part II: in vitro drug release from tablets made from spray-dried chitinosans.

Abstract Purpose : Application of spray-dried chitinosans as excipients for use in drug delivery systems was explored. Methods : Spray- and tray-dried chitinosans previously N -deacetylated and depolymerized were used. Directly compressed tablets (200 mg) containing tetracycline, chitinosan, and magnesium stearate were prepared. The tablets were characterized for dimensions, weight, friability, crushing strengths, disintegration, and dissolution. Results : The tablet weights, thickness, and diameters were not affected by the chitinosan selected ( P >0.05). Friability of tablets containing tray-dried chitinosans was generally higher (and crushing strengths were lower) than tablets containing spray-dried chitinosans. Chitinosan molecular weight, degree of N -deacetylation, and drying method used, significantly affected crushing strengths ( P P P >0.9). Dissolution from tablets was significantly affected by the chitinosan type ( P P >0.5). Conclusions : Spray drying improved binding functionality of chitinosans, thereby enhancing the tablet crushing strength; however, friability, disintegration, and dissolution profiles were not significantly affected. The data obtained from this study support the usefulness of spray-dried chitinosans as excipients for use in drug delivery systems.
A variance of geostatisticians

Different individuals will take different approaches to the analysis and interpretation of data. This study attempted to quantify the effect of such individual differences on the quality of geostatistical spatial estimates. Identical spatial data sets were sent to 12 investigators, who independently analyzed the data and produced spatial interpolations. The results varied considerably. Differences in the interpolations could be attributed to differences in choice of methodology, differences in data interpretation, and, in a few cases, errors in procedure. The potential differences in economic and societal costs between decisions based on “good” vs. “bad” interpolations warrant a systematic approach to the identification and testing of interpolation methods.
Electron-assisted chemical etching of oxidized chromium

Abstract Electron-assisted chemical etching of oxidized chromium, CrO x , has been studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Two model substrates were used—10 nm CrO x deposited on Si(1 0 0) that was covered with either native oxide or a 20 nm Au/Pd alloy film. Using chlorine and/or oxygen as etching gases, the experiments were conducted in a customized high vacuum system, equipped with a high density electron source and a low pressure reaction cell. On both substrates, electron-assisted chemical etching of CiO x was detected by SEM, EDS and AFM. Making the method questionable for etching applications, there is substantial substrate damage associated with the etching. The SEM images indicate strongly inhomogeneous material removal, apparently initiated and propagated from specific but unidentified sites. In the experiments involving the Au/Pd film, there was phase separation of Au and Pd, and dewetting to form metallic islands. AFM data show that the etched holes were as deep as 200 nm, confirming relatively rapid etching of the Si substrate after the top layer of Cr oxide was removed.
Response prompting: The practice time variable

Three experiments were designed to investigate the contributing effects of practice time to the reported superiority of response prompting over confirmation in paired associate learning. With more adequate controls, the oft cited facilitating effects of prompting failed to materialize.
Two-Dimensional Echocardiographic Detection of Left Pulmonary Artery Aneurysm following Potts’ Anastomosis

The two-dimensional echocardiographic detection of left pulmonary artery aneurysm following a Potts' anastomosis in a patient with tetralogy of Fallot is described. The diagnosis was confirmed at angiography and surgery.
Genetic vaccination: engineering antiviral T-cell immunity through stem cells

The human immune system is normally assidu‐ ous in controlling the environmental assaults that the body receives every day. Foreign anti‐ gens are typically targeted and cleared in a highly evolved and coordinated fashion by a variety of different cell types. Instances where this response fails and the pathogen is not cleared have important consequences for mor‐ bidity and mortality. This is certainly the case for HIV, where the infection is only partially controlled. The resultant persistence of the virus established after primary infection is an indica‐ tion of an ongoing battle between the immune response and the viruses’ ability to mutate and replicate. Ultimately, natural immune responses fail to prevent the establishment or clearance of infection with HIV in the vast majority of cases. Thus, there is a desperate need for alterna‐ tive strategies that augment natural immunity to HIV infection and that allow the immune system to specifically target and clear virally infected cells.
Radiative efficiency of MOCVD grown QD lasers

The optical spectral gain characteristics and overall radiative efficiency of MOCVD grown InGaAs quantum dot lasers have been evaluated. Single-pass, multi-segmented amplified spontaneous emission measurements are used to obtain the gain, absorption, and spontaneous emission spectra in real units. Integration of the calibrated spontaneous emission spectra then allows for determining the overall radiative efficiency, which gives important insights into the role which nonradiative recombination plays in the active region under study. We use single pass, multi-segmented edge-emitting in which electrically isolated segments allow to vary the length of a pumped region. In this study we used 8 section devices (the size of a segment is 50x300 μm) with only the first 5 segments used for varying the pump length. The remaining unpumped segments and scribed back facet minimize round trip feedback. Measured gain spectra for different pump currents allow for extraction of the peak gain vs. current density, which is fitted to a logarithmic dependence and directly compared to conventional cavity length analysis, (CLA). The extracted spontaneous emission spectrum is calibrated and integrated over all frequencies and modes to obtain total spontaneous radiation current density and radiative efficiency, ηr. We find ηr values of approximately 17% at RT for 5 stack QD active regions. By contrast, high performance InGaAs QW lasers exhibit ηr ~50% at RT.
Scaling and universal behavior on the bifurcation attractor

We study the scaling behavior of points on the Feigenbaum attractor away from the peak. We label these points by ``CS sequences'' which are related to the binary representations on a Cantor set. [A ``CS sequence'' (``change''-``same'') is based on whether a term in an initial ``binary sequence'' changes from or remains the same as the previous term.] A periodic point on the attractor has an infinite CS sequence with cyclic ending. In the neighborhood of a period-N point, ${2}^{n}$ iterations lead asymptotically to a family of N universal functions and a new scaling parameter \ensuremath{\alpha}. We obtain the first few families of universal functions and their scale parameters both by direct iterations and by renormalization-group calculations.
Counteracting Fusarium proliferatum toxicity in broiler chicks by supplementing drinking water with Poultry Aid Plus

Abstract To test whether Poultry Aid Plus (PAP, a commercial product for drinking water application) could reduce the stress on broiler chicks caused by Fusarium proliferatum contamination of feed, water (with or without PAP application, according to the manufacturer's instructions), and feed (experimentally infected with F. proliferatum fermented and dried corn culture material, CM) were provided to broiler chicks for 3 wk. Eight treatments consisting of a 2 (with or without PAP in water) x 4 (0, 1, 2, and 4% CM in feed) factorial design were tested in four replicate cages of six chicks each. The diet with 2% CM reduced weight gain by 23%; this reduction was preventable by PAP water application. The diet with 4% CM caused a cumulative mortality of 87.5%, which was reduced by PAP water application to 50%. The population half-life of the chicks on the diet with 4% CM was 6.5 d; this half-life was prolonged to at least 21 d by PAP water application. The PAP application also reduced the relative weight of the small intestine and promoted Lactobacillus colonization of the large intestine regardless of the level of CM in feed. Therefore, water application of PAP can be a prophylactic measure for F. proliferatum toxicity in poultry production.
Development of radial fingering patterns

Measurements of radial fingering patterns have been performed over a range of dimensionless force parameter 1.1less than or equal toCless than or equal to35. All observed flows show a power law dependence of radius of gyration on area with exponent (1/1.79). Local curvatures provide the best characterization of pattern ramification. The power spectra of these curvatures are used to define an average wave number K-bar. A scaling is observed to collapse dimensionless average wave number (K-bar') versus dimensionless area of the mixing zone onto one function which rises early in the flows and then coarsens as the flows become more developed.
Training endosonographers in cytopathology: improving the results of EUS-guided FNA.

Background Although on-site cytopathology services have a significant impact on efficiency and accuracy of EUS-guided FNA (EUS-FNA), the availability of this service is variable. Objective To evaluate the impact of an intensive 2-day training program to educate endosonographers in EUS-related cytopathology. Design Pilot study. Setting Tertiary care medical center. Subjects Six endosonographers (5 male, median age, 35 years) with minimal previous cytopathology exposure comprised the study cohort. Methods Pre- and posttraining testing was administered. Training commenced with a cytopathology tutorial focusing on 4 performance measures: specimen adequacy, sample interpretation, specimen processing, and preliminary diagnosis. Eight live EUS-FNA cases were then performed, and study participants independently completed 4 questions based on performance measures for each case. The ability to independently smear and stain slides and operate a microscope was additionally assessed after a hands-on tutorial. Main Outcome Measurements Comparison of pretraining and posttraining scores, improvement in performance measures for live cases, and ability to independently handle specimens and operate a microscope. Results Compared with pretraining, mean posttraining test scores improved by 63% from 48 to 78 out of 100. Mean live case performance score was 95%. Performances improved from 89% on day 1 to 100% on day 2. After training, all endosonographers could independently smear/stain slides and operate a microscope. Limitations Long-term impact is unclear. Conclusions An intensive 2-day program was effective in training endosonographers in the basics of EUS-related cytopathology. Incorporating basic cytopathology in EUS fellowship curriculum will likely improve diagnostic performance of tissue acquisition procedures.