bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RETRACTED: Chemosensitization in non‐small cell lung cancer cells by IKK inhibitor occurs via NF‐κB and mitochondrial cytochrome c cascade
Authors: Jin Xianqing , Qiu Lin , Zhang Dianliang , Zhang Mingman , Wang Ziming , Guo Zhenhua , Deng Chun , Guo Chunbao
Published: December 2008

In this study, we demonstrated with mechanistic evidence that parthenolide, a sesquiterpene lactone, could antagonize paclitaxel‐mediated NF‐κB nuclear translocation and activation by selectively targeting I‐κB kinase (IKK) activity. We also found that parthenolide could target IKK activity and then inhibit NF‐κB; this promoted cytochrome c release and activation of caspases 3 and 9. Inhibition of caspase activity blocked the activation of caspase cascade, implying that the observed synergy was related to caspases 3 and 9 activation of parthenolide. In contrast, paclitaxel individually induced apoptosis via a pathway independent of the mitochondrial cytochrome c cascade. Finally, exposure to parthenolide resulted in the inhibition of several NF‐κB transcript anti‐apoptotic proteins such as c‐IAP1 and Bcl‐xl. These data strengthen the rationale for using parthenolide to decrease the apoptotic threshold via caspase‐dependent processes for treatment of non‐small cell lung cancer with paclitaxel chemoresistance.
Volumetric bone mineral density is an important tool when interpreting bone mineralization in healthy children
Authors: Eriksson Susanne , Mellström Dan , Strandvik Birgitta
Published: December 2008

In adults, it is well known that gender influences bone mass, but studies in children have shown contradictory results. Also, conflicting results have been reported regarding bone mineral density in obese children.

Objective: To investigate bone parameters in healthy 8‐year‐old children and relate them to anthropometry and self‐reported physical activity (PA).

Design: Bone measurements were performed with dual X‐ray absorptiometry in 96 children, and questionnaires were used to assess self‐reported PA.

Results: Bone mineral content and density differed by gender. Eighteen percent of the children were overweight/obese and they had higher bone mineral content and density than children with normal weight. Bone mineral apparent density (g/cm3) of the lumbar spine did not differ, since the vertebral size differed, as was also the case between genders. Self‐reported weight‐bearing PA influenced bone mass in the hip.

Conclusion: PA influenced bone mineralization at this age. The differences in bone mineral content and density in healthy children would mainly be explained by the differences in bone size, reflected in body height and the width of the vertebrae. This indicates the importance of determining volumetric bone mineralization in children.
Self‐esteem in a clinical sample of morbidly obese children and adolescents
Authors: Nowicka P , Höglund P , Birgerstam P , Lissau I , Pietrobelli A , Flodmark C‐E
Published: December 2008

Aim: To study self‐esteem in clinical sample of obese children and adolescents.

Methods: Obese children and adolescents aged 8–19 years (n = 107, mean age 13.2 years, mean BMI 32.5 [range 22.3–50.6], mean BMI z‐score 3.22 [range 2.19–4.79]; 50 boys and 57 girls) were referred for treatment of primary obesity. Self‐esteem was measured with a validated psychological test with five subscales: physical characteristics, talents and skills, psychological well‐being, relations with the family and relations with others. A linear mixed effect model used the factors gender and adolescence group, and the continuous covariates: BMI z‐scores, and BMI for the parents as fixed effects and subjects as random effects.

Results: Age and gender, but neither the child's BMI z‐score nor the BMI of the parents were significant covariates. Self‐esteem decreased (p < 0.01) with age on the global scale as well as on the subscales, and was below the normal level in higher ages in both genders. Girls had significantly lower self‐esteem on the global scale (p = 0.04) and on the two subscales physical characteristics (p < 0.01) and psychological well‐being (p < 0.01).

Conclusion: Self‐esteem is lower in girls and decreases with age. In treatment settings special attention should be paid to adolescent girls.
Invasive pneumococcal disease in Danish children, 1996–2007, prior to the introduction of heptavalent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine
Authors: Winther Thilde N , Kristensen Tim D , Kaltoft Margit S , Konradsen Helle B , Knudsen Jenny D , Høgh Birthe
Published: December 2008

Aim: The aim of this study was to document the epidemiology, microbiology and outcome of invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) among children <16 years with quality surveillance data, just prior to the introduction of the heptavalent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV7) into the Danish routine immunization programme October 2007.

Methods: Clinical and microbiological records on cases of IPD in children <16 years admitted to Hvidovre Hospital, Denmark 1996–2007, were retrospectively reviewed.

Results: We identified 106 cases of IPD. The annual incidence of IPD was 11 per 100 000 in children <16 years, but considerably higher, 62 per 100 000, in children <2 years. Additionally, of the children with pneumococcal meningitis 86% were <2 years. We observed no fatalities. A total of 10% developed sequelae, but of the patients with pneumococcal meningitis 27% developed sequelae. Nine patients had known risk factors. The Streptococcus pneumoniae serotype was available for 81 cases. Seventy‐five percent of the IPD cases in children aged <2 years were caused by one of the serotypes contained within PCV7, compared to only 24% in children ≥2 years.

Conclusion: Our data indicate that an estimated 75% of all IPD cases among children <2 years are caused by PCV7 serotypes and might therefore be prevented by PCV7 vaccination.
Surfactant protein A and D gene polymorphisms and protein expression in victims of sudden infant death
Authors: Stray‐Pedersen Arne , Vege Åshild , Opdal Siri Hauge , Moberg Sara , Rognum Torleiv Ole
Published: December 2008

Aim: To investigate the innate immune components surfactant protein A (SP‐A) and D (SP‐D) in victims of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Methods: Ten common single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the exons of SP‐A1, SP‐A2 and SP‐D genes were analysed in 42 cases of SIDS and 46 explained sudden infant deaths. SP‐A and SP‐D protein expression in tissue from the aerodigestive tract was semi‐quantitatively evaluated by immunohistochemistry.

Results: SP‐D immunoreactivity was found in lungs and tissue from submandibular gland, palatine tonsils and duodenum. Positive SP‐A immune staining was found exclusively in lung tissue. Neither the allele nor the haplotype distribution of the SP‐A and SP‐D genes was significantly different in SIDS compared to explained deaths. The most common SP‐A haplotype, 6A2/1A0, tended to be overrepresented in the cases with low immunohistochemical SP‐A expression (61%) compared to cases with high expression (49%), p = 0.08. The SP‐D expression was not influenced by the 11 C/T or 160 A/G polymorphisms.

Conclusion: No significant association between the common genetic variants of SP‐A and SP‐D and SIDS is disclosed by the present study. However, low SP‐A protein expression may possibly be determined by the 6A2/1A0 SP‐A haplotype, this should be subject for further investigation.
Hyperzincemia and hypercalprotectinemia: unsuccessful treatment with tacrolimus
Authors: Isidor B , Poignant S , Corradini N , Fouassier M , Quartier P , Roth J , Picherot G
Published: December 2008

We report on a 5‐year‐old boy with hyperzincemia and hypercalprotectinemia. Treatment began with Tacrolimus at the age of 4 years and 6 months. Despite an initial correction of clinical and biological symptoms, zincemia and calprotectinemia progressively worsened with secondary reappearance of symptoms.

Conclusion: Tacrolimus seems to have a transient effect in the treatment of Hyperzincemia and hyperprolactinemia.
Fish intake of Swedish male adolescents is a predictor of cognitive performance
Authors: Åberg Maria AI , Åberg Nils , Brisman Jonas , Sundberg Rosita , Winkvist Anna , Torén Kjell
Published: December 2008

Aim: Fish intake is reported to positively influence cognitive performance in infants and the elderly. In a longitudinal cohort study, we evaluated how fish consumption related to later cognitive performance in healthy young male adolescents.

Methods: In 2000, all 15‐year‐olds (n = 18 158; 9260 males) in the western region of Sweden were requested to complete an extensive questionnaire with items on diseases, fish consumption and socioeconomic status. Questionnaire data from the male responders (n = 4792, response rate 52%) were linked with records on subsequent intelligence test performance at age 18 from the Swedish Military Conscription Register (n = 3972). Multivariate linear models were used to estimate associations between fish intake and cognitive performance, adjusting for potential confounders.

Results: There was a positive association between the number of times having fish meals per week at age 15 and cognitive performance measured 3 years later. Fish consumption of more than once per week compared to less than once per week was associated with higher stanine scores in combined intelligence (0.58 units; 95% confidence interval 0.39, 0.76), in verbal performance (0.45; 0.27, 0.63) and in visuospatial performance (0.50; 0.31, 0.69). The association between fish consumption and the 3 intelligence scores was the same in lowly and highly educated groups. This indicates that education did not influence the association between the frequency of fish meals consumed and cognitive performance.

Conclusion: Frequent fish intake at age 15 was associated with significantly higher cognitive performance 3 years later.
Participation in organized weekly physical exercise in obese adolescents reduced daily physical activity
Authors: Hagströmer Maria , Elmberg Karin , Mårild Staffan , Sjöström Michael
Published: December 2008

Aim: The aim of this study was to describe the impact of organized weekly exercise for 13 weeks on aerobic fitness, objectively assessed habitual physical activity and body weight in obese adolescents.

Methods: After inclusion and diagnostic evaluation, the adolescents were randomized to either an exercise group or to a control group which lasted for 13 weeks and consisted of a variety of group exercise activities. Out of 47 adolescents 31 (66%) could be evaluated, 16 in the exercise group and 15 in the control group.

Results: After the intervention, the exercise group had decreased the daily time spent in moderate activity by 17 (32) min/day (p < 0.05), and the average intensity by 60 (96) counts/min (p < 0.05). A tendency for increased time spent in inactivity was found (37 min/day). No differences were seen in the control group for any of the variables measured.

Conclusion: The exercise group showed, in contrast to expectations, a reduction in total daily physical activity with organized physical exercise compared to the control group. This may partly explain the failure of many intervention trials.
Low cerebral blood flow velocity and head circumference in infants with severe hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy and poor outcome
Authors: Ilves Pilvi , Lintrop Mare , Talvik Inga , Muug Külli , Maipuu Lea , Metsvaht Tuuli
Published: December 2008

Aims: To evaluate long‐term changes in cerebral blood flow velocity (CBFV) and head circumference in asphyxiated infants.

Methods: CBFV was measured in 83 asphyxiated and 115 healthy term infants in anterior and middle cerebral, basilar and internal carotid artery (ICA) up to the age of 60–149 days. The psychomotor development and head circumference was followed for 18 months.

Results. Mean CBFV was increased (p < 0.05) during the first days after asphyxia in infants with severe hypoxic‐ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) (n = 25) compared to control group or infants with mild to moderate HIE (n = 58) with maximum values found at the age of 36–71.9 h: in ICA (mean [95% CI]) 31.2 (25.5–36.6) cm/s in severe HIE infants compared to 13.0 (12.2–13.9) cm/s in controls. Decreased (p < 0.0001) mean CBFV developed in severe HIE infants by the age of 21–59 days: in ICA 14.1 (11.5–16.8) cm/s compared to 22.9 (21.4–24.4) cm/s in controls. Infants with severe HIE had similar mean height but lower head circumferences compared to controls (p < 0.05) at the age of 21–59 days.

Conclusion: The high mean CBFV found in infants with severe HIE during the first days after asphyxia is temporary and low CBFV and head circumference develops by the age of 21–59 days.
Disease patterns of outpatient visits by Japanese expatriate children in Thailand
Authors: Sakai Rie , Wongkhomthong Som‐arch , Marui Eiji
Published: December 2008

Aim: To clarify the health‐related conditions of Japanese expatriate children in Thailand.

Methods: Records of Japanese children who consulted outpatient clinics at Bangkok Hospital in 2005 and 2006 (n = 2141) were analysed, and then compared with data from the patient survey conducted by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare of Japan in 2005 (n = 575 400).

Results: ‘diseases of the respiratory system’, categorized as chapter X under ICD‐10 was the most frequent category in both Thailand and Japan. Although ‘certain infectious and parasitic diseases’ (chapter I) was the second most frequent category in Thailand, it was infrequent in Japan. In the subcategories of ‘diseases of the respiratory system’, ‘acute upper respiratory infections’ was frequent and asthma was infrequent in Thailand. Conversely, ‘acute upper respiratory infections’ showed a low percentage and asthma was the most frequently observed disease in Japan.

Conclusion: This study examined Japanese children having the same genetic background but divided into two groups according to different living environments. Results demonstrate that children living in Japan contract asthma more frequently than infectious diseases, whereas those living in Thailand show the opposite trend, which supports the hygiene hypothesis that infections may protect against the development of allergic diseases, such as asthma.
Parental divorce and adolescent cigarette smoking and alcohol use: assessing the importance of family conflict
Authors: Kristjansson Alfgeir Logi , Sigfusdottir Inga Dora , Allegrante John P. , Helgason Asgeir R
Published: December 2008

Aim: To investigate how family conflict contributes to the relationship between parental divorce and adolescent cigarette smoking and alcohol use.

Design: Population‐based cross‐sectional survey.

Setting: School classrooms in Iceland in which an anonymous questionnaire was administered to respondents by supervising teachers. Participants were 7430 (81.4%) of 9124 14‐ to 16‐year‐old adolescents.

Main outcome measure: Cigarette smoking and alcohol use during the last 30 days were assessed by self‐report.

Results: Parental divorce was related to adolescent cigarette smoking during the last 30 days (OR = 2.12, 95% CI 1.84–2.44) when controlling for gender only, but was insignificant (OR = 1.18 95%, CI 0.99–1.44) when controlling for relationship with parents, disruptive social changes and family conflict. There was a significant relationship between parental divorce and adolescent alcohol use during last 30 days (OR = 1.66, 95% CI 1.48–1.87), controlling only for gender; however, the relationship disappeared (OR = 1.04, 95% CI 0.91–1.20) when controlling for other variables.

Conclusion: Family conflicts are important contributors to the relationship between parental divorce and adolescent cigarette smoking and alcohol use. Conflict between parents and adolescents, but not inter‐parental conflict, appears to be the most important factor in the relationship between family conflict and adolescent substance use.
Insulin requirement in preschoolers treated with insulin pumps at the onset of type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Szypowska Agnieszka , Lipka Maria , Błazik Marlena , Groele Lidia , Pańkowska Ewa
Published: December 2008

The aim: The aim of this study is to analyze changes in the basal insulin requirement in preschoolers treated with insulin pump at the onset of T1DM, using system to calculate meal time insulin.

Methods: 58 children (31 girls) under 6 years (mean age 3.3 ± 1.5 years) initiated on insulin pump therapy within 2 months after recognition of T1DM and treated at least for 1 year were analyzed during a follow‐up period of 165 patient‐years. Data was collected every 6 months: HbA1c, BMI SDS, diabetic ketoacidosis, severe hypoglycaemia, total daily insulin dose (TDD) and basal insulin.

Results: Basal insulin rose from 10% in the third month and did not exceed 30% of TDD after 12 months (p<0.0001). In the third month, 46% of children were without basal insulin; this group included significantly older children (3.7 ± 1.4 vs. 2.8 ± 1.4 years; p = 0.01), which had lower TDD (0.33 ± 0.18 vs. 0.54 ± 0.23u/kg/d; p = 0.0007) than children with basal insulin. HbA1c persisted ≤7.3%.

Conclusion: In preschool children initiated on CSII therapy at the time of T1DM diagnosis the first year of treatment is critical for altering the basal insulin dose. Preschoolers with TDD lower than 0.5U/kg/d may not require basal insulin. Moreover, basal insulin did not exceed 30% of TDD in the first years after T1DM onset.
Nothing But the Truth? Experiments on Adversarial Competition, Expert Testimony, and Decision Making
Authors: Boudreau Cheryl , McCubbins Mathew D.
Published: December 2008

Many scholars debate whether a competition between experts in legal, political, or economic contexts elicits truthful information and, in turn, enables people to make informed decisions. Thus, we analyze experimentally the conditions under which competition between experts induces the experts to make truthful statements and enables jurors listening to these statements to improve their decisions. Our results demonstrate that, contrary to game theoretic predictions and contrary to critics of our adversarial legal system, competition induces enough truth telling to allow jurors to improve their decisions. Then, when we impose additional institutions (such as penalties for lying or the threat of verification) on the competing experts, we observe even larger improvements in the experts' propensity to tell the truth and in jurors' decisions. We find similar improvements when the competing experts are permitted to exchange reasons for why their statements may be correct.
Empirical Research for Public Policy: With Examples from Family Law
Authors: Lempert Richard
Published: December 2008

Drawing on three family law studies as examples, this article discusses strengths and weaknesses of policy‐relevant empirical research. Its main message is that policy‐relevant empirical legal research should be encouraged, but the policy relevance of research, especially single studies, should not be oversold. It concludes with five points that consumers of policy‐relevant empirical research should keep in mind: (1) do not rest policy change or analysis on a single study, no matter how good it is; (2) when reading the report of an empirical study, look beyond the researcher's bottom line to other relationships revealed in the data; (3) no matter how unversed one is in statistics, commonsense and a close reading of tables, graphs, and methodological narratives can take one a long way; (4) always ask about mechanism: understanding why a situation exists is as important to policy analysis as knowing whether it exists; and (5) if results seem too good to be true, this is often because they are not true.
Psychologists' Clinical Practices in Assessing Dementia in Individuals With Down Syndrome
Authors: Auty Ellen , Scior Katrina
Published: December 2008

There are now ample guidelines for the assessment and diagnosis of possible dementia in individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID) and Down syndrome. However, little is known about their implementation in clinical practice. This study set out to examine the clinical practice of one key professional group, namely clinical psychologists. A national survey of clinical psychologists in ID services in the United Kingdom was undertaken. Detailed descriptions of clinical practice were obtained from 64 psychologists. Responses were further explored in focus groups. The results suggest marked variability in practice, assessment methods, and explanations clinicians give to service users and carers. Clinicians described struggling with the ethics and practicalities of how to present dementia assessments to individuals with ID and highlighted a need for more research, debate, and guidance. They also noted numerous shortfalls in service provision once aging individuals with ID show signs of dementia. Further research and clearer consensus guidelines are needed to improve assessment and diagnosis for this group.
Colleagues' Perception of Supported Employee Performance
Authors: Cramm Jane‐Murray , Tebra Nelleke , Finkenflügel Harry
Published: December 2008

The authors investigated whether supported employees are perceived on an equal basis within the workplace by their nondisabled worker colleagues. Three types of social relationships were considered in a workplace context (“work acquaintances,”“work friends,” and “social friends”) in order to examine whether the types of social relationships that develop between supported employees and their coworkers may reveal information regarding the level of equality between them and the level of integration enjoyed by the supported employees. Semi‐structured interviews were held with coworkers of supported employees and were used to determine the extent to which supported employees become socially integrated. Specifically examined was the progression from “work acquaintances” to “work friends” and ultimately to “social friends.” It was found that although all workplace colleagues without disabilities considered supported employees to be at least “work acquaintances,” some of them identified supported employees as “social friends.”
Brief Report: State of the Science Symposium on Aging and Developmental Disabilities1
Authors: Heller Tamar , Janicki Matthew P. , Marks Beth , Hammel Joy , Factor Alan
Published: December 2008

The overall goal of the 2007 State of the Science Symposium on Aging with Developmental Disabilities: Charting Lifespan Trajectories and Supportive Environments for Healthy Community Living (held in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A.) was to increase the understanding and definition of how to improve the health, psychosocial well‐being, and community participation of older adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The symposium consisted of four main tracks (neurodevelopmental conditions; health care services, health promotion needs, and health literacy; family support and intergenerational caregiving; and environmental barriers and supports to community living). The symposium's participants recommended a greater focus on a research agenda that would serve to increase the knowledge on the lifespan trajectory for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and on identifying methods for developing and assessing effectiveness of practices and policies for individuals with developmental disabilities, their families, and their service providers.
(TTA)n Polymorphism in 3‐Hydroxy‐3‐Methylglutaryl‐Coenzyme A and Response to Atorvastatin in Coronary Artery Disease Patients
Authors: Noriega Viviana , Pennanen Christian , Sánchez María Pilar , Chiong Mario , Llancaqueo Marcelo , Lavandero Sergio , Prieto Juan Carlos
Published: December 2008

Abstract:  3‐Hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl‐coenzyme A reductase inhibitors have been used clinically for lowering total and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol. Interindividual pharmacological differences observed with this treatment have been attributed to genetic differences. The aim of this study was to assess the association in the low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol reduction by atorvastatin and (TTA)n polymorphism in the 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl‐coenzyme A reductase gene in patients with coronary artery disease. Changes in total cholesterol levels, triglycerides, high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein and free F2‐isoprostanes were also evaluated. In an open study, patients received 40 mg atorvastatin daily for 8 weeks. Genotyping was done through polymerase chain reaction. The genotype distribution of the 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl‐coenzyme A reductase (TTA)n polymorphism was: >10/>10 in 22 out of 64 patients (34%), >10/10 in 14 out of 64 patients (22%) and 10/10 in 28 out of 64 patients (44%). The reduction of low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels by atorvastatin was not different between allelic variants (TTA)n repeat polymorphism. Reductions in high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein were observed in atorvastatin‐treated patients with alleles >10/>10 and 10/10. Free F2‐isoprostanes and total cholesterol were also significantly lower after treatment for all alleles, irrespective of type of polymorphism. In conclusion, the changes induced by atorvastatin treatment on low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, total cholesterol, triglycerides, high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein and free F2‐isoprostane concentrations were not related to the presence of 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl‐coenzyme A reductase polymorphism (TTA)n.
5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors and Erectile Dysfunction: The Connection
Authors: Erdemir Fikret , Harbin Andrew , Hellstrom Wayne JG
Published: December 2008

Introduction

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common problem affecting middle-aged and elderly men. First-line medical therapy includes α 1blockers and 5α-reductase inhibitors (5ARIs), such as finasteride and dutasteride. 5ARI use has been associated with adverse sexual outcomes, including erectile dysfunction (ED), ejaculatory dysfunction (EjD), and decreased libido.

Aim

To clarify the association between sexual adverse effects (AEs) and 5ARIs through review of literature concerning 5ARIs and to review the proposed mechanisms of these effects.

Methods

A comprehensive literature review, using MEDLINE and PUBMED search engines, was conducted for all publications concerning 5ARIs and sexual AEs.

Main Outcome Measure

Sexual adverse effects, such as ED, EjD, and decreased libido, were the measured outcomes of this literature review.

Results

Sexual AEs are reported in clinical trials at rates of 2.1% to 38%. The most common sexual AE is ED, followed by EjD and decreased libido. These effects occur early in therapy and attenuate over time. A proposed mechanism for sexual dysfunction involves decreased nitric oxide synthase activity due to decreased dihydrotestosterone.

Conclusion

The connection between 5ARIs and sexual dysfunction is apparent upon review of the literature. Though theories have been proposed, little is known about the exact mechanisms behind 5ARI-related sexual dysfunction. Since the connection between 5ARIs and sexual AEs is established in the literature, future research should be directed toward deciphering the pathophysiologic mechanisms. When more basic science knowledge is attained in this area, the focus can shift toward prevention and treatment.
Eastern Approaches for Enhancing Women's Sexuality: Mindfulness, Acupuncture, and Yoga (CME)
Authors: Brotto Lori A. , Krychman Michael , Jacobson Pamela
Published: December 2008

Introduction

A significant proportion of women report unsatisfying sexual experiences despite no obvious difficulties in the traditional components of sexual response (desire, arousal, and orgasm). Some suggest that nongoal-oriented spiritual elements to sexuality might fill the gap that more contemporary forms of treatment are not addressing.

Aim

Eastern techniques including mindfulness, acupuncture, and yoga, are Eastern techniques, which have been applied to women's sexuality. Here, we review the literature on their efficacy.

Methods

Our search revealed two empirical studies of mindfulness, two of acupuncture, and one of yoga in the treatment of sexual dysfunction.

Main Outcome Measure

Literature review of empirical sources.

Results

Mindfulness significantly improves several aspects of sexual response and reduces sexual distress in women with sexual desire and arousal disorders. In women with provoked vestibulodynia, acupuncture significantly reduces pain and improves quality of life. There is also a case series of acupuncture significantly improving desire among women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder. Although yoga has only been empirically examined and found to be effective for treating sexual dysfunction (premature ejaculation) in men, numerous historical books cite benefits of yoga for women's sexuality.

Conclusions

The empirical literature supporting Eastern techniques, such as mindfulness, acupuncture, and yoga, for women's sexual complaints and loss of satisfaction is sparse but promising. Future research should aim to empirically support Eastern techniques in women's sexuality.
Optimization of Full‐Scale Permanganate ISCO System Operation: Laboratory and Numerical Studies
Authors: Heiderscheidt Jeffrey L. , Crimi Michelle , Siegrist Robert L. , Singletary Michael A.
Published: December 2008

Laboratory characterization studies, one‐dimensional flow‐through studies, and numerical model simulations were conducted to examine site conditions and system features that may have adversely affected in situ chemical oxidation (ISCO) performance at the Naval Training Center’s (NTC) Operable Unit 4 located in Orlando, Florida, and to identify potential ISCO system modifications to achieve the desired remediation performance. At the NTC site, ISCO was implemented using vertical injection wells to deliver potassium permanganate into a ground water zone for treatment of tetrachloroethylene and its breakdown products. However, oxidant distribution was much more limited than anticipated. Characterization studies revealed that the ground water zone being treated by ISCO was very fine sand with a small effective particle size and low uniformity coefficient, along with a high organic carbon content, high natural oxidant demand (NOD), and a high ground water dissolved solids concentration, all of which contributed to full‐scale ISCO application difficulties. These site conditions contributed to injection well permeability loss and an inability to achieve the design oxidant injection flow rate, limiting the actual oxidant distribution at the site. Flow‐through experiments demonstrated that more favorable oxidant delivery and distribution conditions are enabled by applying a lower oxidant concentration at a faster delivery rate for a greater number of pore volumes. Numerical simulations, run for a variety of conditions (injection/extraction well flow rates, injected oxidant concentration, amount of NOD present, and NOD oxidation rate), also revealed that low–oxidant concentration injection at a high flow rate is a more effective method to deliver the required mass of oxidant to the target treatment zone.
Long‐Term Leakage of DDT and Other Pesticides from a Tree Nursery Landfill
Authors: Haarstad K.
Published: December 2008

A landfill consisting mainly of organic waste from a tree nursery and containing an estimated 900 kg of DDT (1,1‐(2,2,2‐trichloroethylidene)bis(4‐chlorobenzene) has been monitored since 1994. Downstream ground water was sampled from four wells. More than 10 years of monitoring of two of the wells is presented in the report, in addition to sampling of the waste. A total of seven pesticides were detected in the ground water. In addition to DDT, there were two other insecticides and four fungicides occurring in the ground water downstream of the landfill. The maximum concentration of pesticides was 3.76 μg/L of which 2.70 μg/L was permethrin in October 2000. The maximum concentration of DDT in the ground water was 0.52 μg/L, indicating that the leachate DDT concentrations probably exceed the water solubility of the compound. The investigation shows that the practice of establishing local landfills of waste from nurseries is environmentally unsafe. In 2002, the landfill was covered with clayey soil and vegetated. It seems that this has stabilized the pesticide concentrations in the ground water and removed the occurrence of extreme values. However, the vegetated soil layer has not been able to prevent the leakage of pesticides to the ground water, still present 5 years later.
Diagnosing vocal cord dysfunction in young athletes
Authors: Rhodes Rea Kae
Published: December 2008

Purpose: To provide an overview of the pathophysiology, steps in making a diagnosis, differential diagnosis, and treatment methods for vocal cord dysfunction (VCD) in young athletes.

Data sources: Review of published literature about VCD and exercise‐induced asthma (EIA) and a case study.

Conclusions: The clinical presentation of VCD is often confusing. A young athlete who is having difficulty “catching his breath” may have more than EIA. Young athletes who have been previously diagnosed with EIA may actually have VCD.

Implications for practice: The ability to correctly differentiate VCD from other causes of respiratory distress can lead to accurate interventions, save precious time in an acute situation, and promote long‐term control of this condition.
Saying “no” to professional recommendations: Client values, beliefs, and evidence‐based practice
Authors: Michaels Cathy , McEwen Marylyn Morris , McArthur Donna Behler
Published: December 2008

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to explore the phenomenon of saying “no” to secondary prevention recommended by healthcare providers.

Data sources: Extracted findings from two qualitative studies in which participants have said “no” to provider recommendations for secondary prevention, specifically screening mammograms or treatment for latent tuberculosis infection, are discussed.

Conclusions: Although these two studies focus on different aspects of secondary prevention, both studies emphasize how client values and beliefs impact health decisions. In evidence‐based practice (EBP), both scientific evidence and client values and beliefs must be considered. Nurse practitioners (NPs) have the skill set and are in a position to assist clients to mediate between their values and beliefs and current scientific evidence.

Implications for practice: Several findings from the two qualitative studies are relevant for practice: qualitative studies provide information about values and beliefs for EBP, and findings from these particular qualitative studies demonstrated that women were protective about their health even though their values and beliefs did not align with current scientific evidence. Through client narratives, NPs can facilitate clients aligning personal values and beliefs with current scientific evidence in relationship to caring for self.
Only in Congenial Soil: The Microenvironment in Brain Tumorigenesis
Authors: Rubin Joshua B.
Published: December 2008

Microenvironmental or stromal influences on tumor formation and growth have become an active area of research. The use of mouse models of human cancers to study the role of the microenvironment will yield unique insights into this aspect of tumor biology and should identify novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of human cancers. In the following, the author review the natural history of two pediatric brain tumors, optic pathway glioma in neurofibromatosis type 1 and medulloblastoma in Gorlin's Syndrome, whose patterns of growth suggest that microenvironmental factors are essential for tumor formation. Each of these brain tumors is faithfully modeled in genetically engineered mice and the use of these mouse models to investigate the role of the microenvironment should yield exciting new insights into this important field of study.
Brain Tumor Susceptibility: the Role of Genetic Factors and Uses of Mouse Models to Unravel Risk
Authors: Reilly Karlyne M.
Published: December 2008

Brain tumors are relatively rare but deadly cancers, and present challenges in the determination of risk factors in the population. These tumors are inherently difficult to cure because of their protected location in the brain, with surgery, radiation and chemotherapy options carrying potentially lasting morbidity for patients and incomplete cure of the tumor. The development of methods to prevent or detect brain tumors at an early stage is extremely important to reduce damage to the brain from the tumor and the therapy. Developing effective prevention or early detection methods requires a deep understanding of the risk factors for brain tumors. This review explores the difficulties in assessing risk factors in rare diseases such as brain tumors, and discusses how mouse models of cancer can aid in a better understanding of genetic risk factors for brain tumors.
Foreign Exchange Volatility Is Priced in Equities
Authors: Guo Hui , Neely Christopher J. , Higbee Jason
Published: December 2008

This paper finds that standard asset pricing models fail to explain the significantly negative delta hedging errors that occur as a result of the purchase of options on foreign exchange futures. Foreign exchange volatility does influence stock returns, however. The volatility of the JPY/USD exchange rate predicts the time series of stock returns and is priced in the cross‐section of stock returns.
Evaluation of anterior segment parameter changes using the Pentacam after uneventful phacoemulsification
Authors: Doganay Selim , Bozgul Firat Penpegul , Emre Sinan , Yologlu Saim
Published: December 2008

Purpose:  This study set out to evaluate the influences of uneventful phacoemulsification on the anterior segment parameters obtained with the Pentacam rotating Scheimpflug camera and intraocular pressure (IOP).

Methods:  A total of 42 eyes of 34 patients (26 men, eight women) were evaluated preoperatively, and at 1, 3 and 6 months postoperatively with the Pentacam. Intraocular pressure was measured with the Goldmann applanation tonometer. The non‐parametric paired t‐test was used to compare preoperative and 1‐, 3‐ and 6‐month postoperative measurements of anterior chamber depth (ACD), anterior chamber volume (ACV), anterior chamber angle (ACA) width, central corneal thickness (CCT), the central 3‐, 5‐ and 7‐mm corneal volume (CV), pupil size, and IOP. Pearson’s correlation test was used to evaluate the relationships between IOP and ACD, ACV and ACA width.

Results:  The differences between ACD, ACV, ACA and IOP values taken preoperatively and those taken postoperatively at 1, 3 and 6 months were statistically significant (p < 0.05). The differences between CCT, central 3‐, 5‐ and 7‐mm CV, and pupil size measurements taken preoperatively and those taken postoperatively at 1, 3 and 6 months were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). The decrease in IOP was not correlated with the changes in ACD, ACV and ACA (p > 0.05).

Conclusions:  Uneventful phacoemulsification significantly reduced IOP, increased ACD and ACV, and widened the ACA. However, alterations in CV, CCT and pupil size values were not statistically significant. Alterations in ACD, ACV, ACA and IOP remain stable after the first month of surgery.
Changes in optic nerve head blood flow induced by the combined therapy of latanoprost and beta blockers
Authors: Sugiyama Tetsuya , Kojima Shota , Ishida Osamu , Ikeda Tsunehiko
Published: December 2008

Purpose To assess the effects of combined therapy with latanoprost and beta blockers on optic nerve head (ONH) blood flow in normal‐tension glaucoma (NTG) patients.

Methods Intraocular pressure (IOP), ONH blood flow (laser speckle flowgraphy) and blood pressure were measured in 15 eyes of 15 NTG patients (41–76 years old) before treatment or after a 1‐month washout period. Similar measurements were performed at 2 months after the commencement of treatment with latanoprost and at 3 months after the start of combined therapy of latanoprost with 0.5% timolol or 2% carteolol in a crossover study using the envelope method. Measurement was carried out 2–3 hr after the morning application of eyedrops.

Results Latanoprost decreased IOP with no significant change in ONH blood flow. Concomitant use of timolol or carteolol further decreased IOP with no significant difference between these two drugs. Only the combined therapy of latanoprost with carteolol significantly (p < 0.01) increased ONH blood flow by approximately 10%, compared to initial levels. There was no significant change in mean blood pressure, ocular perfusion pressure or pulse rate as a result of these therapies.

Conclusion: Topical latanoprost–carteolol combined therapy increased ONH blood flow in NTG patients, unlike latanoprost–timolol therapy. Because ocular perfusion pressure was unchanged, direct vasodilative effects were suspected as the mechanism.
Design and Performance of Slug Damper
Authors: Reinoso Antonio , Gomez Luis E. , Wang Shoubo , Mohan Ram S. , Shoham Ovadia , Kouba Gene
Published: December 2008

This study investigates theoretically and experimentally the slug damper as a novel flow conditioning device, which can be used upstream of compact separation systems. In the experimental part, a 3 in. ID slug damper facility has been installed in an existing 2 in. diameter two-phase flow loop. This flow loop includes an upstream slug generator, a gas-liquid cylindrical cyclone (GLCC©, ©The University of Tulsa, 1994) attached to the slug damper downstream and a set of conductance probes for measuring the propagation of the dissipated slug along the damper. Over 200 experimental runs were conducted with artificially generated inlet slugs of 50 ft length (Ls/d=300) that were dumped into the loop upstream of the slug damper, varying the superficial liquid velocity between 0.5 ft/s and 2.5 ft/s and superficial gas velocity between 10 ft/s and 40 ft/s (in the 2 in. inlet pipe) and utilizing segmented orifice opening heights of 1 in., 1.5 in., 2 in., and 3 in. For each experimental run, the measured data included propagation of the liquid slug front in the damper, differential pressure across the segmented orifice, GLCC liquid level, GLCC outlet liquid flow, and static pressure in the GLCC. The data show that the slug damper/GLCC system is capable of dissipating long slugs, narrowing the range of liquid flow rate from the downstream GLCC. Also, the damper capacity to process large slugs is a strong function of the superficial gas velocity (and mixture velocity). The theoretical part includes the development of a mechanistic model for the prediction of the hydrodynamic flow behavior in the slug damper. The model enables the predictions of the outlet liquid flow rate and the available damping time, and in turn the prediction of the slug damper capacity. Comparison between the model predictions and the acquired data reveals an accuracy of ±30% with respect to the available damping time and outlet liquid flow rate. The developed model can be used for design of slug damper units.
A Bioinformatician's Guide to Metagenomics
Authors: Kunin Victor , Copeland Alex , Lapidus Alla , Mavromatis Konstantinos , Hugenholtz Philip
Published: December 2008

As random shotgun metagenomic projects proliferate and become the dominant source of publicly available sequence data, procedures for the best practices in their execution and analysis become increasingly important. Based on our experience at the Joint Genome Institute, we describe the chain of decisions accompanying a metagenomic project from the viewpoint of the bioinformatic analysis step by step. We guide the reader through a standard workflow for a metagenomic project beginning with presequencing considerations such as community composition and sequence data type that will greatly influence downstream analyses. We proceed with recommendations for sampling and data generation including sample and metadata collection, community profiling, construction of shotgun libraries, and sequencing strategies. We then discuss the application of generic sequence processing steps (read preprocessing, assembly, and gene prediction and annotation) to metagenomic data sets in contrast to genome projects. Different types of data analyses particular to metagenomes are then presented, including binning, dominant population analysis, and gene-centric analysis. Finally, data management issues are presented and discussed. We hope that this review will assist bioinformaticians and biologists in making better-informed decisions on their journey during a metagenomic project.
Precipitation Chemistry and Chemical Limnology of Fertilized and Natural Lakes at Saqvaqjuac, N.W.T.
Authors: Welch Harold E. , Legault John A.
Published: December 2008

Precipitation at Saqvaqjuac (northwest coast of Hudson Bay, 60°39′N) had high concentrations of sea salts, was moderately acidic, and had less SO4and total N than lower latitude precipitation, although SO4sources were distant. Watershed retention was high for H+, but negative for other elements as a consequence of isostatic rebound. Annual element runoff was a function of the timing of melt runoff and summer rain events because of permafrost. Lake retention of Si was higher than P because of the different times of loading, late summer versus spring. Conservative element mass did not change overwinter except in low-elevation Spring Lake, where residual Cl, Na, and K diffused from the sediments. Phosphorus and N were the only elements incorporated into black ice. As a result of freezeout and incomplete meltwater mixing beneath lake ice, element concentrations were 1.6 times higher in lakes than inflows, and major ion turnover times were 1.5–2.0 times higher than water turnover times.
Algal Competition for Phosphorus: The Influence of Zooplankton and Fish
Authors: Reinertsen Helge , Jensen Arne , Langeland Arnfinn , Olsen Yngvar
Published: December 2008

Interspecific competition for phosphorus between the blue-green alga Anabaena flos-aquae and the green alga Staurastrum luetkemuelleri was studied in enclosure experiments. Both algal populations increased in number upon introduction of fish, but addition of herbivorous zooplankton led to an increase solely in the Staurastrum population. This could not be attributed to grazing by zooplankton, chemical or physical conditions (light, pH, inorganic carbon), or the total supply or rate of supply of phosphorus. The observed differences were apparently due to the patchy release of phosphorus by the fish, and the more homogenous release of this nutrient by the zooplankton. This would allow the Anabaena species, which was capable of rapid uptake of temporary pulses of phosphate, to coexist with Staurastrum in the enclosures with fish.
An Experimental and Statistical Approach to the Question: Is CPUE an Index of Abundance?
Authors: Richards Laura J. , Schnute Jon T.
Published: December 2008

Catch per unit effort (CPUE) is often assumed to be an index of stock abundance. Here we present an experiment and a general model for testing this assumption. We used the submersible Pisces IV to make visual estimates of reef-fish density in the Strait of Georgia, British Columbia. These density estimates were compared with CPUE estimates obtained by research angling at the same sites. Our model allows for no relationship between CPUE and density, strict proportionality, and departures from proportionality at either low or high densities or both. We performed the analysis using an ordinary least squares (OLS) model and an errors-in-variables (EV) model that includes error in both CPUE and density. For the dominant species (quillback rockfish, Sebastes maliger), the relationship was one of strict proportionality. However, CPUE was a poor abundance index when data were combined across species. In these cases the OLS and EV models generally resulted in different conclusions; the EV model explained a low CPUE at high density by allowing for error in the density measurement.