bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intelligent Freeform Manufacturing of Complex Organs
Authors: Wang Xiaohong
Published: August 2012

Different from the existing tissue engineering strategies, rapid prototyping (RP) techniques aim to automatically produce complex organs directly from computer‐aided design freeform models with high resolution and sophistication. Analogous to building a nuclear power plant, cell biology (especially, renewable stem cells), implantable biomaterials, tissue engineering, and single/double/four nozzle RP techniques currently enable researchers in the field to realize a part of the task of complex organ manufacturing. To achieve this multifaceted undertaking, a multi‐nozzle rapid prototyping system which can simultaneously integrate an anti‐suture vascular system, multiple cell types, and a cocktail of growth factors in a construct should be developed. This article reviews the pros and cons of the existing cell‐laden RP techniques for complex organ manufacturing. It is hoped that with the comprehensive multidisciplinary efforts, the implants can virtually replace the functions of a solid internal organ, such as the liver, heart, and kidney.
Coccolithogenesis In Scyphosphaera apsteinii (Prymnesiophyceae)
Authors: Drescher Brandon , Dillaman Richard M. , Taylor Alison R.
Published: August 2012

Coccolithophores are the most significant producers of marine biogenic calcite, although the intracellular calcification process is poorly understood. In the case of Scyphosphaera apsteinii Lohmann 1902, flat ovoid muroliths and bulky, vase‐shaped lopadoliths with a range of intermediate morphologies may be produced by a single cell. This polymorphic species is within the Zygodiscales, a group that remains understudied with respect to ultrastructure and coccolith ontogeny. We therefore undertook an analysis of cell ultrastructure, morphology, and coccolithogenesis. The cell ultrastructure showed many typical haptophyte features, with calcification following a similar pattern to that described for other heterococcolith bearing species including Emiliania huxleyi. Of particular significance was the reticular body role in governing fine‐scale morphology, specifically the central pore formation of the coccolith. Our observations also highlighted the essential role of the inter‐ and intracrystalline organic matrix in growth and arrangement of the coccolith calcite. S. apsteinii secreted mature coccoliths that attached to the plasma membrane via fibrillar material. Time‐lapse light microscopy demonstrated secretion of lopadoliths occurred base first before being actively repositioned at the cell surface. Significantly, growth irradiance influenced the coccosphere composition with fewer lopadoliths being formed relative to muroliths at higher light intensities. Overall, our observations support dynamic metabolic (i.e., in response to growth irradiance), sensory and cytoskeletal control over the morphology and secretion of polymorphic heterococcoliths. With a basic understanding of calcification established, S. apsteinii could be a valuable model to further study coccolithophore calcification and cell physiological responses to ocean acidification.
Effects of Heavy Prenatal Alcohol Exposure and Iron Deficiency Anemia on Child Growth and Body Composition through Age 9 Years
Authors: Colin Carter R. , Jacobson Joseph L. , Molteno Christopher D. , Jiang Hongyu , Meintjes Ernesta M. , Jacobson Sandra W. , Duggan Christopher
Published: August 2012

Background

Prenatal alcohol exposure has been associated with pre‐ and postnatal growth restriction, but little is known about the natural history of this restriction throughout childhood or the effects of prenatal alcohol on body composition. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of heavy prenatal alcohol exposure on longitudinal growth and body composition.

Methods

Eighty‐five heavy drinking pregnant women (≥2 drinks/d or ≥4 drinks/occasion) and 63 abstaining and light‐drinking controls (<1 drink/d, no binging) were recruited at initiation of prenatal care in an urban obstetrical clinic in Cape Town, South Africa and prospectively interviewed during pregnancy about alcohol, smoking, drug use, and demographics. Among their children, length/height, weight, and head circumference were measured at 6.5 and 12 months and at 5 and 9 years. Percent body fat (BF) was estimated at age 9 years using bioelectric impedance analysis.

Results

In multiple regression models with repeated measures (adjusted for confounders), heavy alcohol exposure was associated with reductions in weight (0.6 SD), length/height (0.5 SD), and head circumference (0.9 cm) from 6.5 months to 9 years that were largely determined at birth. These effects were exacerbated by iron deficiency in infancy but were not modified by iron deficiency or measures of food security at 5 years. An alcohol‐related postnatal delay in weight gain was seen at 12 months. Effects on head circumference were greater at age 9 than at other age points. Although heavy alcohol exposure was not associated with changes in body composition, children with fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) and partial fetal alcohol syndrome (PFAS) had lower percent BF than heavy exposed nonsyndromal and control children.

Conclusions

Heavy prenatal alcohol exposure is related to prenatal growth restriction that persists through age 9 years and an additional delay in weight gain during infancy. FAS and PFAS diagnoses are associated with leaner body composition in later childhood.
Age of First Use and Delay to First Intoxication in Relation to Trajectories of Heavy Drinking and Alcohol‐Related Problems During Emerging Adulthood
Authors: Morean Meghan E. , Corbin William R. , Fromme Kim
Published: August 2012

Background

Using alcohol at an early age is a well‐documented risk factor for heavy drinking and the experience of a range of negative social and health consequences. However, it remains unclear if early consumption of any alcohol or early drinking to intoxication confers the greatest risk.

Methods

Age of onset (AO) and delay to first intoxication (delay) were examined as independent predictors of heavy drinking and the experience of alcohol‐related problems (problems) in a sample of incoming college freshmen (n = 1,160) who completed biannual assessments from the summer following senior year of high school through senior year of college. The sample included more women (66%) than men and a majority were Caucasian (59%). We employed latent growth curve modeling to examine self‐reported AO and delay to self‐defined first intoxication as predictors of the frequency of heavy drinking and problems during year 4 of college, as well as changes in these alcohol‐related outcomes from high school through college.

Results

An earlier AO and/or a shorter delay was associated with increased frequency of heavy drinking and problems during senior year of college. Although individuals with a later AO and/or a longer delay were at lower risk overall, they showed larger increases in heavy drinking and problems over time.

Conclusions

The findings highlight the importance of distinguishing between AO and delay to first intoxication. Delay accounted for unique variance in drinking outcomes relative to AO, and the effects of AO were stronger when delay was included as a predictor variable. Results are discussed with regard to potential mechanisms through which an early age of intoxication may confer unique risk relative to AO. The implications for cross‐cultural differences in risk for problems attributable to early drinking are also discussed.
The Subjective Physiological, Psychological, and Behavioral Risk‐Taking Consequences of Alcohol and Energy Drink Co‐Ingestion
Authors: Peacock Amy , Bruno Raimondo , Martin Frances H.
Published: August 2012

Background

The increasingly popular practice among adolescents and young adults of consuming alcohol mixed with energy drinks (AmED) has raised concern regarding potential increases in maladaptive drinking practices, negative psychological and physiological intoxication side effects, and risky behavioral outcomes. Comparison of user types has revealed that AmED users report engaging in more risk‐taking behavior relative to alcohol users. However, the comparative likelihood of risk‐taking according to session type (i.e., AmED vs. alcohol session) remains relatively unknown. Thus, this study was designed with the aim of establishing the subjective physiological, psychological, and behavioral risk‐taking outcomes of AmED consumption relative to alcohol consumption for AmED users drawn from the community.

Methods

Between May and June 2011, 403 Australians aged 18 to 35 who had consumed AmED and alcohol only in the preceding 6 months completed a 10‐ to 30‐minute online survey about their use of these substances.

Results

Despite participants consuming a significantly greater quantity of alcohol in AmED sessions compared to alcohol sessions, the odds of participants experiencing disinhibition and engaging in 26 risk behaviors were significantly lower during AmED sessions relative to alcohol sessions. Similarly, the odds of experiencing several physiological (i.e., speech and walking difficulties, nausea, and slurred speech) and psychological (i.e., confusion, exhaustion, sadness) sedation outcomes were less during AmED sessions compared to alcohol sessions. However, the odds of enduring physiological (i.e., heart palpitations, sleep difficulties, agitation, tremors, jolt and crash episodes, and increased speech speed) and psychological (i.e., irritability and tension) outcomes potentially related to overstimulation were significantly greater during AmED sessions than alcohol sessions.

Conclusions

Co‐ingestion may provide a double‐edged effect. The increased stimulation from energy drinks (EDs) may negate some intoxication‐related sedation side effects by increasing alertness. However, it could also lead to negative physiological side effects associated with overstimulation. Notwithstanding any stimulatory effects of EDs, risk and negative effects of excessive alcohol consumption were present in both session types. However, the odds of engaging in risk‐taking were less during AmED sessions relative to alcohol sessions. Objective measurement of behavioral risk‐taking via laboratory‐based measures could confirm the causal relationship between AmED and risk‐taking.
Binge Drinking—A Predictor for or a Consequence of Unemployment?
Authors: Backhans Mona C. , Lundin Andreas , Hemmingsson Tomas
Published: August 2012

Background

Research on the association between alcohol use and unemployment has been conducted in various settings and subgroups. While most studies confirm that problem use is related to subsequent unemployment, results are inconclusive regarding the reverse association. Few studies have analyzed binge drinking as either a predictor or an outcome.

Methods

This study investigates 13,031 residents in Stockholm county, who participated in a 2002 survey with a follow‐up in 2007, aged 20 to 59, and currently employed or on leave at T1. Associations between frequency of binge drinking and total unemployment duration in 2003 to 2006 were assessed using logistic regression, taking previous binge drinking and previous unemployment experience into account.

Results

After full adjustment, high frequency of binge drinking (1 per week or more) had a nonsignificant association with any subsequent unemployment for men and women and a significant association with long‐term unemployment (>6 months) for women (OR 1.87). For men, both short‐term unemployment and long‐term unemployment were unrelated to later binge drinking after adjustment for previous binge drinking. Associations were stronger for women, but not significant in the full model.

Conclusions

Frequent binge drinking among women was associated with long‐term unemployment. There was little support for the social causation hypothesis.
Niche breadth and range area in North American trees
Authors: Morin Xavier , Lechowicz Martin J.
Published: August 2012

Identifying factors affecting species distribution is a longstanding goal in ecology and evolution that is accentuated by our need to anticipate climate change impacts. We sought to test whether any phylogenetic effect can be detected in either the environmental characteristics or range attributes of North American trees, and to explore the existence of a general interspecific pattern in the environmental factors influencing species range size. To do so we tested prevailing hypotheses relating climatic and edaphic characteristics to species range size in the North American arboflora (n = 598), using spatial null models to test for the relevance of observed patterns. We found that interspecific variation in the range area of North American trees is strongly related to the environmental regimes characteristic of the species range. Linear models and phylogenetic regressions involving six environmental characteristics explained 83% of the variance in species range area, and affirmed a positive relationship between niche breadth and range size. Tree species that can tolerate a larger variability in local climatic conditions, deal with harsher edaphic conditions, and weak levels of environmental energy tend to have larger range area; this can account for the greater geographic range of species at higher latitudes, the Rapoport effect. There is a significant phylogenetic signal for both range area and limits in North American trees, and for climatic limits, but not for energy or edaphic characteristics associated with species range. These findings highlight the possibility that species with small geographic ranges may be more sensitive to the effects of climate change.
The outliers become a stampede as immunometabolism reaches a tipping point
Authors: Nikolajczyk Barbara S. , Jagannathan‐Bogdan Madhumita , Denis Gerald V.
Published: August 2012

Summary:  Obesity and Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) are characterized by pro‐inflammatory alterations in the immune system including shifts in leukocyte subset differentiation and in cytokine/chemokine balance. The chronic, low‐grade inflammation resulting largely from changes in T‐cell, B‐cell, and myeloid compartments promotes and/or exacerbates insulin resistance (IR) that, together with pancreatic islet failure, defines T2D. Animal model studies show that interruption of immune cell‐mediated inflammation by any one of several methods almost invariably results in the prevention or delay of obesity and/or IR. However, anti‐inflammatory therapies have had a modest impact on established T2D in clinical trials. These seemingly contradictory results indicate that a more comprehensive understanding of human IR/T2D‐associated immune cell function is needed to leverage animal studies into clinical treatments. Important outstanding analyses include identifying potential immunological checkpoints in disease etiology, detailing immune cell/adipose tissue cross‐talk, and defining strengths/weaknesses of model organism studies to determine whether we can harness the promising new field of immunometabolism to curb the global obesity and T2D epidemics.
Diazepam reverses the alveolar bone loss and hippocampal interleukin‐1beta and interleukin‐6 enhanced by conditioned fear stress in ligature‐induced periodontal disease in rats
Authors: Gomes E. P. P. , Aguiar J. C. A. , Fonseca‐Silva T. , Dias L. C. , Moura‐Boas K. P. , Roy A. , Velloso N. A. , Rodrigues‐Neto J. F. , De‐Paula A. M. B. , Guimarães A. L. S.
Published: August 2012

Background and Objective

Stress and anxiety have been associated with chronic periodontitis, but few studies examining the effects of psychotropic drugs on periodontal health have been performed. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the effects of diazepam on the progression of periodontitis in chronically stressed rats.

Material and Methods

Fourteen Wistar rats were submitted to ligature‐induced periodontal disease and were divided into four groups . Two groups were not stressed, whereas two groups were submitted to a conditioned fear stress paradigm for 38 d. Daily diazepam treatment (2 mg/kg, orally) was administered to one unstressed group and to one group submitted to a conditioned fear stress paradigm from day 2 to the day 39, at which point the rats were submitted to an open field test and were killed on day 40. Brains and mandibles were removed for histological and immunohistochemical analyses.

Results

Animals exposed to conditioned fear stress presented an increase in freezing behavior, a decrease in locomotor activity, enhanced alveolar bone loss and higher levels of hippocampal interleukin‐1beta (IL‐1β) and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), compared with the control group. Diazepam, at the dose used in the current study, had no effect on freezing behavior but reversed the decrease in locomotor activity provoked by stress. Additionally, the treatment reduced the levels of hippocampal IL‐1β and IL‐6 and alveolar bone loss in Wistar rats. Neither conditioned fear stress nor diazepam treatment had an effect on periodontal IL‐1β or IL‐6 levels in animals.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that diazepam treatment reduces bone loss in rats submitted to conditioned fear stress. In addition, diazepam treatment led to decreased IL‐1β and IL‐6 levels in the hippocampus.
In vivo measurement of breast skin elasticity and breast skin thickness
Authors: Sutradhar Alok , Miller Michael J.
Published: August 2012

Background

The mechanical properties of the breast skin play an important role in explaining the changes associated with radiotherapy, tissue expansion, and breast reconstruction surgery. Quantitative measurement of mechanical properties of breast skin is essential for surgical preplanning and outcome prediction. We have measured the skin elasticity properties and skin thickness of the breast using noninvasive methods.

Methods

The DermaLab suction cup and the DermaScanC ultrasound were used to measure the modulus of elasticity and the skin thickness, respectively. Measurements were taken in 16 different locations on the breast in 23 female patients, also with patients in supine and upright position. Different analytical models (plate, membrane, large deformation) that can represent the experiment were studied to extract the elasticity modulus.

Results

The average modulus of breast skin elasticity found was 344 ± 88 kPa (Mean ± SD) with 95% confidence interval being 306–382 kPa. The range of the modulus was 195–480 kPa. The average thickness of breast skin was 1.55 ± 0.25 mm with a range of 0.83–2.4 mm.

Conclusions

Regional variations of breast skin elasticity properties and breast skin thickness were observed. No direct correlations of biomechanical properties with age or breast thickness were observed. No significant difference was observed in the elasticity modulus between the supine and upright patient positions.
Effect of Exercise‐induced Sweating on facial sebum, stratum corneum hydration, and skin surface pH in normal population
Authors: Wang Siyu , Zhang Guirong , Meng Huimin , Li Li
Published: August 2012

Background

Evidence demonstrated that sweat was an important factor affecting skin physiological properties.

Aims

We intended to assess the effects of exercise‐induced sweating on the sebum, stratum corneum (SC) hydration and skin surface pH of facial skin.

Materials & Methods

102 subjects (aged 5–60, divided into five groups) were enrolled to be measured by a combination device called ‘Derma Unit SSC3’ in their frontal and zygomatic regions when they were in a resting state (RS), at the beginning of sweating (BS), during excessive sweating (ES) and an hour after sweating (AS), respectively.

Results

Compared to the RS, SC hydration in both regions increased at the BS or during ES, and sebum increased at the BS but lower during ES. Compared to during ES, Sebum increased in AS but lower than RS. Compared to the RS, pH decreased in both regions at the BS in the majority of groups, and increased in frontal region during ES and in zygomatic region in the AS. There was an increase in pH in both regions during ES in the majority of groups compared to the BS, but a decrease in the AS compared to during ES.

Discussion

The study implies that even in summer, after we sweat excessively, lipid products should be applied locally in order to maintain stability of the barrier function of the SC. The study suggests that after a short term(1 h or less) of self adjustment, excessive sweat from moderate exercise will not impair the primary acidic surface pH of the facial skin.

Conclusion

Exercise‐induced sweating significantly affected the skin physiological properties of facial region.
Development and evaluation of an automatic acne lesion detection program using digital image processing
Authors: Min Seonguk , Kong Hyoun‐joong , Yoon Chiyul , Kim Hee Chan , Suh Dae Hun
Published: August 2012

Background/purpose

Existing acne grading methods, which depend on overall impression, require a long training period and there is a high degree of variability among raters, including trained dermatologists. The use of lesion count provides fair reproducibility but the method is time consuming. New technologies in photographic equipment and software allow solutions to the problem of acne evaluation. This study was conducted to develop the automatic acne lesion program and evaluation of its usefulness.

Methods

We made the conditions to optimize characterization of acne lesions and developed the counting program. Twenty‐five volunteers with acne lesions were enrolled. Automated lesion counting for five subtypes of acne (papule, nodule, pustule, whitehead comedone, and blackhead comedone) was performed with image processing. The usefulness of the automatic lesion count program was assessed by a comparison with manual counting performed by an expert dermatologist.

Results

In a comparison with manual counting performed by an expert dermatologist, the sensitivity and positive predictive value of the lesion‐counting program was greater than 70% for papules, nodules, pustules, and whitehead comedo. In a comparison with manual counting, findings with the use of the lesion‐counting program were well correlated for papules, nodules, pustules, and whitehead comedo (r > 0.9).

Conclusion

Automatic lesion‐counting program can be a useful tool for acne severity evaluation.
Analysis of the Golden Proportion and Width/Height Ratios of Maxillary Anterior Dentition in Patients with Lateral Incisor Agenesis
Authors: PINI NÚBIA PAVESI , DE‐MARCHI LUCIANA MANZOTTI , GRIBEL BRUNO FRAZÃO , UBALDINI ADRIANA LEMOS MORI , PASCOTTO RENATA CORRÊA
Published: August 2012

Objective:  The purpose of this study was to assess the presence of the golden proportion (GP) in the facial view tooth‐to‐tooth width proportion of the six maxillary anterior teeth and to evaluate the width/height (W/H) ratios of the incisors of patients with maxillary lateral incisor (LI) agenesis treated either with implants or orthodontically (by moving canines into the position of the laterals, recontouring them, and placing composite restorations over the repositioned teeth).

Materials and Methods:  Forty‐eight patients with LI agenesis were divided into four experimental groups: unilateral recontouring group (N = 10), bilateral recontouring group (BRG, N = 18), unilateral implant group (UIG, N = 10), bilateral implant group (N = 10), and a control group (CG, N = 25) of patients without agenesis. GP ratios were determined on patients' dental casts placed over Levin's grids, whereas W/H ratios were measured directly on the casts and a millimeter ruler to determine these distances. Statistical analysis was performed with Shapiro–Wilk, Kruskal–Wallis, Mann–Whitney, Friedman, and Wilcoxon tests (p < 0.05).

Results:  The incidence of GP in the tooth‐to‐tooth width proportions was significantly different between groups and more commonly found between centrals and laterals than between laterals and canines. The GP was more likely to be observed in the BRG, UIG, and CG. The results demonstrated that the GP was not found to be present in the majority of the cases treated with maxillary agenesis, regardless of the method of treatment. The mean W/H ratios of the laterals ranged between 0.75 and 0.90.

Conclusion:  Although the GP may be a useful diagnostic guide, it was not observed in the majority of esthetic outcomes of patients treated with maxillary LI agenesis in this study.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The assessment of the golden proportion and width/height ratio of upper anterior teeth in patients with upper lateral incisor agenesis treated with either implants or tooth re‐contouring may assist dentists and patients in deciding the best treatment option based on the peculiarities of each case.

(J Esthet Restor Dent ••:••–••, 2012)
Prevalence of risk factors for foot ulceration in a general haemodialysis population
Authors: Jones Nia J , Chess James , Cawley Scott , Phillips Aled O , Riley Stephen G
Published: August 2012

It is well documented that diabetic foot ulceration contributes to increased morbidity and mortality associated with renal replacement therapy. Much less is known about the risk of foot ulceration and lower limb amputation in the non‐diabetic dialysis population. The aim of this study was to determine if the prevalence of risks factors for lower limb amputation in a stable haemodialysis population was greater in the diabetic cohort compared with the non‐diabetic cohort. The study design is a prospective observational cohort study. Sixty patients attending a satellite haemodialysis unit in Cardiff were invited to have a comprehensive foot assessment as part of a Podiatry service review. The medical notes and hospital information system were used to identify the diabetic cohort. Patients were classified according to diabetic status (diabetic versus non‐diabetic). The Renal Foot Screening Tool was developed to prospectively identify risk factors associated with foot ulceration. The assessment included peripheral neuropathy (PN), peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and foot pathology (FP). Fifty‐seven patients gave informed verbal consent prior to inclusion. Risk factors for foot ulceration were recorded at baseline in the diabetic (n= 24) and non‐diabetic (n= 33) groups and mortality data was revisited after a 3‐year period. FP was identified in 79% of patients. Eighteen per cent of the non‐diabetic patients had PN. PAD was identified in 45% of diabetic and 30% of non‐diabetic patients. Forty‐nine per cent of the total cohort had ≥2 of the 3 independent risk factors for foot ulceration (16/24 diabetic versus 12/33 non‐diabetic). The presence of PAD and PN was predictive of mortality independent of age. The limitations of this study are its small sample size and patients were from a single satellite dialysis unit. There was a high prevalence of risk factors for foot ulceration in this population, which were not confined to the diabetic cohort. These findings suggest that non‐diabetic patients on haemodialysis therapy are also at risk of developing foot ulceration. Further work on strategies to monitor and prevent FP in this high‐risk cohort is needed to minimize morbidity and mortality associated with foot ulceration.
The potential of a niacinamide dominated cosmeceutical formulation on fibroblast activity and wound healing in vitro
Authors: Wessels Quenton , Pretorius Etheresia , Smith Celeste M , Nel Hugo
Published: August 2012

Knowledge on the intrinsic mechanisms involved in wound healing provides opportunity for various therapeutic strategies. The manipulation of dermal fibroblast proliferation and differentiation might prove to beneficially augment wound healing. This study evaluated the combined effects of niacinamide, l‐carnosine, hesperidin and Biofactor HSP® on fibroblast activity. The effects on fibroblast collagen production, cellular proliferation, migration and terminal differentiation were assessed. In addition, the authors determined the effects on in vitro wound healing. The optimal concentrations of actives were determined in vitro. Testing parameters included microscopic morphological cell analysis, cell viability and proliferation determination, calorimetric collagen detection and in vitro wound healing dynamics. Results show that 0·31 mg/ml niacinamide, 0·10 mg/ml l‐carnosine, 0·05 mg/ml hesperidin and 5·18 µg/ml Biofactor HSP® proved optimal in vitro. The results show that fibroblast collagen synthesis was increased alongside with cellular migration and proliferation.
Metabolic and Cardiovascular Outcomes of Fatherhood: Results from a Cohort of Study in Subjects with Sexual Dysfunction
Authors: Fisher Alessandra D. , Rastrelli Giulia , Bandini Elisa , Corona Giovanni , Balzi Daniela , Melani Cecilia , Monami Matteo , Matta Vanessa , Mannucci Edoardo , Maggi Mario
Published: August 2012

Introduction

Previous cross-sectional and longitudinal studies reported a negative correlation between fatherhood and testosterone (T) levels, likely due to a centrally mediated downregulation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis. Moreover, epidemiological data indicate that fatherhood might affect metabolic and cardiovascular outcomes, although different results have been reported. Up to now, no studies have evaluated these associations in a population of men seeking treatment for sexual dysfunction (SD).

Aim

To explore biological and clinical correlates of number of children (NoC) and its possible associations with forthcoming major cardiovascular events (MACE) in a sample of men with SD.

Methods

A consecutive series of 4,045 subjects (mean age 52 ± 13.1 years old) attending the Outpatient Clinic for SD was retrospectively studied. A subset of the previous sample (N = 1,687) was enrolled in a longitudinal study.

Main Outcome Measures

Information on MACE was obtained through the City of Florence Registry Office.

Results

Among patients studied, 31.6% had no children, while 26.3% reported having one child, 33.4% two, and 8.8% three or more children. Although fatherhood was negatively related with follicle-stimulating hormone levels and positively with testis volume, we found a NoC-dependent, stepwise decrease in T plasma levels, not compensated by a concomitant increase in luteinizing hormone. NoC was associated with a worse metabolic and cardiovascular profile, as well as worse penile blood flows and a higher prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS). In the longitudinal study, after adjusting for confounders, NoC was independently associated with a higher incidence of MACE. However, when the presence of MetS was introduced as a further covariate, the association was no longer significant.

Conclusions

This study supports the hypothesis that bond maintenance contexts and fatherhood are associated with an adaptive downregulation of the gonadotropin-gonadal axis, even in a sample of men with SD. Moreover, our data suggest that NoC predicts MACE, most likely because of an unfavorable, lifestyle-dependent, parenthood-associated behavior.
M
BH-σ relation between supermassive black holes and the velocity dispersion of globular cluster systems
Authors: Sadoun Raphael , Colin Jacques
Published: August 2012

We find evidence that the mass MBH of central supermassive black holes (SMBHs) correlates with the velocity dispersion σGC of globular cluster systems of their host galaxies. This extends the well-known MBH–σsph relation between black hole mass and velocity dispersion of the host spheroidal component. We compile published measurements of both MBH and σGC for a sample of 13 systems and find the relation log (MBH) = α + βlog (σGC/200), with α = 8.63 ± 0.09 and β = 3.76 ± 0.52. We also consider blue (metal-poor) and red (metal-rich) globular cluster subpopulations separately and obtain a surprisingly tight correlation using only the velocity dispersion of the red clusters with α= 8.73 ± 0.09 and β= 3.84 ± 0.52 and an intrinsic scatter ɛ0= 0.22 dex compared to ɛ0= 0.27 dex for the MBH–σsph relation of our sample. We use this MBH– relation to estimate the central black hole mass in five galaxies for which is measured.
Coping behaviors used by Army wives during deployment separation and their perceived effectiveness
Authors: Blank Cherie , Adams Lori Anne , Kittelson Brian , Connors Rebecca A. , Padden Diane L.
Published: August 2012

Purpose: The purpose of this descriptive correlational study was to describe the coping behaviors used by Army wives during deployment separation, the perceived effectiveness of the coping behaviors used, and the correlation between the two variables.

Data sources: A secondary analysis was conducted to examine coping use and perceived effectiveness, measured by the Jalowiec Coping Scale (JCS), in a sample of 102 Army wives surveyed during deployment separation.

Conclusions: The most used coping subscales from the JCS were the optimistic and supportant and the most effective were the supportant and confrontive. The strongest correlations between coping use and effectiveness were found in the supportant subscale, which measures use of support systems (r= 0.77, p < .00), and the confrontive subscale, which includes behaviors of constructive problem solving (r= 0.62, p < .00). The use and effectiveness of individual behaviors are also identified.

Implications for practice: Identifying effective and ineffective coping behaviors of spouses of deployed troops can potentially reduce stress and improve well‐being. Primary care providers should encourage military spouses to engage in optimistic thinking, seek out spiritual support, talk to others in a similar situation, and participate in physical activity.

Disclosure  The views expressed are those of the authors and do not reflect the official policy or position of the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, the Department of the Defense, or the United States government.
Revisiting geographies of sexuality and gender Down Under
Authors: Gorman‐Murray Andrew , Morrison Carey‐Ann
Published: August 2012

This special issue, ‘Revisiting Geographies of Sexuality and Gender Down Under’, corresponds with the 2008 themed issue of Australian Geographer, ‘Geographies of Sexuality and Gender Down Under’. This introduction reviews some existing literature on sexual and gender geographies in Australia and New Zealand, seeking to further decentre the dominance of Anglo‐American work in these fields. It discusses how the special issue and its articles are located within both lineages of Australasian geographical scholarship on sexuality and gender and key themes of sexual and gender geographies globally. The six contributed articles are introduced and positioned within these frames of reference.
Undescended testis: its anatomical localization and aetiological factors
Authors: Kurkcuoglu Ayla , Otgun Ibrahim , Pelin Can , Zagyapan Ragıba , Agah Tekindal Mustafa
Published: August 2012

Undescended testis (UDT) is a very frequent clinical finding in boys. Despite its relatively high frequency, a uniform classification suitable for clinical setting is not available for the disorder. The purpose of this study is to investigate the anatomical localizations of non‐palpable testes and some potential aetiologic factors. We analysed the data for 133 patients with UDT. Physical examination and surgical outcomes of the patients were compared in terms of testicular localizations. Birth weight of the patients, gestational ages, presence of additional congenital anomalies, whether they were breastfed in infancy, age of the first diagnosis, maternal age during pregnancy, history of maternal diabetes and presence of Rh incompatibility. Using the described classification, the 101 right and 85 left impalpable testes were classified as follows: 15·8% Type I, 34·6% Type II, 17·3% Type III, 8·3% Type IV, 24·1% normal testes on the right side when manually examined. Left impalpable testes were classified as follows when manually examined as follows: 13·5% Type I, 26·3% Type II, 9·0% Type III, 15·0% Type IV and 36·1% normal testes. When we compared these results with surgical results, we found a statistically significant difference. Being familiar with anatomic localizations of undescended testes is of (vital) importance in terms of surgical approach and for possible postoperative complications. Although manual examination is an indispensable part of diagnosis, it may be insufficient to determine its localization, and thus further tests may be required. Further studies are required to investigate the aetiologic factors for UDT.
Distribution of hepatitis C virus genotypes in Chinese patients with chronic hepatitis C: Correlation with patients’ characteristics and clinical parameters
Authors: Dong Zhi Xia , Zhou Hui Juan , Wang Jian Hua , Xiang Xiao Gang , Zhuang Yan , Guo Si Min , Gui Hong Lian , Zhao Gang De , Tang Wei Liang , Wang Hui , Xie Qing
Published: August 2012

Objective

This study aimed to explore the most up‐to‐date distribution of hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotypes in China, especially the association between HCV genotypes and patients’ characteristics and clinical parameters.

Methods

Sera from 483 HCV antibody‐positive patients were genotyped using a HCV genotyping chip assay. The distribution of HCV genotypes, clinical parameters, modes of transmission and duration of infection were determined and the relationships among these parameters were analyzed.

Results

A total of 424 patients were successfully genotyped. HCV genotypes 1, 2, 3 and 6 were found with a constituent ratio of 72.1%, 12.3%, 10.6% and 5.0%, respectively, in which subtypes 1b (69.1%), 2a (11.6%) and 3a (7.5%) were prevalent. The mean age of patients with genotype 1 and 2 was significantly elder than those with genotype 3 and 6 (P < 0.05). The distribution of HCV genotypes in relation to the mode of HCV transmission was remarkable (P < 0.001). Transfusion of blood and blood products was the main mode of transmission. Most genotype 1 infection (53.1%) was found in the group with a duration of HCV infection of 10–20 years. Genotype 1b was independently associated with age (P = 0.001) and mode of HCV transmission (P = 0.007).

Conclusions

The main HCV subtype was genotype 1b in Chinese patients. The prevalence of HCV genotypes was correlated with age and the mode of HCV transmission. Genotype 3a and 6 may become an increasing threat in the future.
The Role of Natriuretic Peptides: From the Emergency Department Throughout Hospitalization
Authors: Pang Peter S. , Xue Yang , DeFilippi Christopher , Silver Marc , Januzzi James , Maisel Alan
Published: August 2012

Assessment of natriuretic peptide (NP) levels has a well‐established role in the diagnosis and prognosis of acute heart failure (AHF) patients. Current guidelines recommend assessment of NPs when the diagnosis is in question, yet multiple studies suggest a broader value of NP assessment. Measurement of NP levels results in more efficient treatment, resource utilization (ie, reduced costs), and possibly improved short‐ and long‐term outcomes. Given the large number of patients hospitalized every year with heart failure, combined with the high post‐discharge mortality, rehospitalization rates, and subsequent large financial costs, improving outcomes for hospitalized HF patients remains an unmet need. In this review, we highlight the value of NP assessment, starting in the emergency department and throughout hospitalization. The contents of this review were generated from a roundtable discussion of AHF and biomarker experts held in Chicago in April 2012 and focused on addressing the burden of AHF and readmission. ©2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sterne's Manicules: Hands, Handwriting and Authorial Property in Tristram Shandy
Authors: WILLIAMS HELEN
Published: August 2012

This article argues that in Tristram Shandy Sterne expresses his desire to be the sole owner of his literary work through images of the hand and handwriting. It explores his experimentation with the typographic manicule and his innovation in representing script in print. I suggest that Sterne represents the hand and handwriting as ambiguous markers of authenticity in order to illustrate and lament the complexities of assigning literary property in this period.
Molecular detection of protozoan parasites infecting Apis mellifera colonies in Japan
Authors: Morimoto Tomomi , Kojima Yuriko , Yoshiyama Mikio , Kimura Kiyoshi , Yang Bu , Peng Guangda , Kadowaki Tatsuhiko
Published: August 2012

The role of protozoan parasites in honey bee health and distribution in the world is not well understood. Therefore, we carried out a molecular survey for the presence of Crithidia mellificae and Apicystis bombi in the colonies of both non‐native Apis mellifera and native Apis cerana japonica in Japan. We found that A. mellifera, but not A. c. japonica, colonies are parasitized with C. mellificae and A. bombi. Their absence in A. c. japonica colonies indicates that A. mellifera is their native host. Nevertheless, the prevalence in A. mellifera colonies is low compared with other pathogens such as viruses and Nosema microsporidia. Japanese C. mellificae isolates share well‐conserved nuclear‐encoded gene sequences with Swiss and US isolates. We have found two Japanese haplotypes (A and B) with two nucleotide differences in the kinetoplast‐encoded cytochrome b sequence. The haplotype A is identical to Swiss isolate. These results demonstrate that C. mellificae and A. bombi distribute in Asia, Oceania, Europe, and South and North Americas.
Regulation of glucose kinetics during exercise by the glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor
Authors: Burmeister M. A. , Bracy D. P. , James F. D. , Holt R. M. , Ayala J. , King E. M. , Wasserman D. H. , Drucker D. J. , Ayala J. E.
Published: August 2012

Key points

Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (Glp1) regulates hepatic glucose production (HGP) and muscle glucose uptake (MGU) via its ability to stimulate insulin secretion.

Using exercise as a means to stimulate glucose flux independently of insulin secretion, we observed that Glp1 receptor (Glp1r) knockout (Glp1r−/−) mice become hyperglycaemic but display normal rates of MGU.

Since euglycaemia during exercise is typically maintained by matching rates of HGP to rates of MGU, we hypothesize that exercise‐induced hyperglycaemia in Glp1r−/− mice is due to excessive HGP.

Using innovative catheterization and isotope dilution techniques, we demonstrate that hyperglycaemia in exercising Glp1r−/− mice is associated with excessive HGP and glucagon secretion.

These results suggest an essential and novel role for basal Glp1r signalling in the suppression of alpha cell secretion during exercise.

Abstract  In response to oral glucose, glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor (Glp1r) knockout (Glp1r−/−) mice become hyperglycaemic due to impaired insulin secretion. Exercise also induces hyperglycaemia in Glp1r−/− mice. In contrast to oral glucose, exercise decreases insulin secretion. This implies that exercise‐induced hyperglycaemia in Glp1r−/− mice results from the loss of a non‐insulinotropic effect mediated by the Glp1r. Muscle glucose uptake (MGU) is normal in exercising Glp1r−/− mice. Thus, we hypothesize that exercise‐induced hyperglycaemia in Glp1r−/− mice is due to excessive hepatic glucose production (HGP). Wild‐type (Glp1r+/+) and Glp1r−/− mice implanted with venous and arterial catheters underwent treadmill exercise or remained sedentary for 30 min. [3‐3H]glucose was used to estimate rates of glucose appearance (Ra), an index of HGP, and disappearance (Rd). 2[14C]deoxyglucose was used to assess MGU. Glp1r−/− mice displayed exercise‐induced hyperglycaemia due to an excessive increase in Ra but normal Rd and MGU. Exercise‐induced glucagon levels were ∼2‐fold higher in Glp1r−/− mice, resulting in a ∼2‐fold higher glucagon:insulin ratio. Since inhibition of the central Glp1r stimulates HGP, we tested whether intracerebroventricular (ICV) infusion of the Glp1r antagonist exendin(9–39) (Ex9) in Glp1r+/+ mice would result in exercise‐induced hyperglycaemia. ICV Ex9 did not enhance glucose levels or HGP during exercise, suggesting that glucoregulatory effects of Glp1 during exercise are mediated via the pancreatic Glp1r. In conclusion, functional disruption of the Glp1r results in exercise‐induced hyperglycaemia associated with an excessive increase in glucagon secretion and HGP. These results suggest an essential role for basal Glp1r signalling in the suppression of alpha cell secretion during exercise.
Mechanically Tuning the Localized Surface Plasmon Resonances of Gold Nanostructure Arrays
Authors: Zhao Yanhui , Walker Thomas , Bing Zheng Yue , Steven Lin Sz-Chin , Ahsan Nawaz Ahmad , Kiraly Brian , Scott Jason , Jun Huang Tony
Published: August 2012

We report the fabrication of metal nanostructures on a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) substrate by transferring polystyrene beads onto PDMS substrate followed by metal deposition. Experimentally tuning the plasmon resonance of the metal nanostructures was demonstrated by stretching the patterned PDMS substrate. The distance between adjacent nanodisks affects the coupling between the disks, leading to a repeatable and reversible shift in the spectrum. The device can be valuable in many applications such as bio/chemical sensing, reconfigurable optics, and the study of coupled resonances.
Hydrocarbon Refrigerant Vaporization Inside a Brazed Plate Heat Exchanger
Authors: Longo Giovanni A.
Published: August 2012

This paper presents the experimental heat transfer coefficients and pressure drop measured during HC-600a (isobutane), HC-290 (propane), and HC-1270 (propylene) vaporization inside a brazed plate heat exchanger (BPHE): the effects of heat flux, refrigerant mass flux, saturation temperature (pressure), evaporator outlet condition, and fluid properties are investigated. The experimental tests include 172 vaporization runs carried out at three different saturation temperatures (10, 15, and 20 °C) and four different evaporator outlet conditions (outlet vapor quality around 0.80 and 1.00, outlet vapor super-heating around 5 and 10 °C). The refrigerant mass flux ranges from 6.6 to 23.9 kg m−2 s−1 and the heat flux from 4.3 to 19.6 kW m−2. The heat transfer and pressure drop measurements have been complemented with IR thermography analysis in order to quantify the portion of the heat transfer surface affected by vapor super-heating. The heat transfer coefficients show great sensitivity to heat flux, evaporator outlet condition and fluid properties and weak sensitivity to saturation temperature (pressure). The frictional pressure drop shows a linear dependence on the kinetic energy per unit volume of the refrigerant flow and therefore a quadratic dependence on refrigerant mass flux. HC-1270 exhibits heat transfer coefficients 6–12% higher than HC-290 and 35–50% higher than HC-600a and frictional pressure drops 5–10% lower than HC-290 and 60% lower than HC-600a. The experimental heat transfer coefficients are compared with two well-known correlations for nucleate boiling and a linear equation for frictional pressure drop is proposed.
Studying the Stabilization Dynamics of Swirling Partially Premixed Flames by Proper Orthogonal Decomposition
Authors: Duwig Christophe , Ducruix Sébastien , Veynante Denis
Published: August 2012

Environmental regulations are continuously pushing lower emissions with an impact on the combustion process in gas turbines (GTs). As a consequence, GT combustors operate in very lean regimes (i.e., at relatively low temperature) to reduce NOx formation. Unfortunately, stabilization becomes a challenge for these lean premixed flames. The extremely unsteady dynamics of swirl stabilized flames present crucial issues and this investigation aim is understanding the interaction of swirl stabilization with large coherent fluctuations inherent to vortex breakdown. The investigation utilizes a simplified cylindrical model combustor consisting of a premixing tube discharging in a larger combustion chamber. Fuel and swirling air are separately injected in the mixing tube so that a partially premixed swirling jet encounters vortex breakdown and allows the partially premixed flame to stabilize. The aforementioned extreme sensitivity of lean partially premixed flames challenges any investigation either for measuring, simulating, or post-processing the case of interest. In this paper, the problem is addressed using large eddy simulation (LES) and planar laser induced fluorescence. The LES data are used to follow the fuel air/mixing along with the fuel combustion evidencing large-scale dynamics. These dynamics are further investigated using proper orthogonal decomposition to identify the role of the premixing stage and of the precessing vortex core in the flame behavior.