bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression profiles of aquaporin homologues and petal movement during petal development in Tulipagesneriana
Authors: Azad Abul Kalam , Hanawa Ryosuke , Ishikawa Takahiro , Sawa Yoshihiro , Shibata Hitoshi
Published: October 2012

Previously, we have characterized two tonoplast intrinsic proteins (TIPs) and four plasma membrane intrinsic proteins (PIPs) from the 2‐day‐old petals of tulip (Tulipa gesneriana). In this study, we analyzed the development of tulip petals and stems, temperature‐dependent petal movement, the amount of 3H2O transported into petals and stems during petal movement, and the transcript levels of two TIP (TgTIP1;1 and TgTIP1;2) and four TgPIP genes in petals and stems, from the first day of petal opening to day 12. The development of the petals and stems was completed by days 6 and 9, respectively, after the first day of petal opening. Temperature‐dependent petal movement and the amount of 3H2O that was transported into petals could be detected at significant levels up to day 6 with petal movement reaching a peak at day 3. Real‐time reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed that TgTIP1;1 and TgTIP1;2 were expressed ubiquitously in petals, stems, leaves, bulbs and roots. However, the expression level of TgTIP1;2 was very low in bulbs. The expression of both TgTIP1 genes was upregulated in close association with the development of petals but not with that of the stem. The four TgPIP genes were expressed at almost the same level during the development of the petals and the stem. However, the levels of the TgTIP1 and TgPIP transcripts in petals decreased during the course of petal wilting from day 9 onwards. These results suggest that TgTIP1;1 and TgTIP1;2 may contribute to petal development.
Infant feeding and the development of food allergies and atopic eczema: An update
Authors: Gamboni Sarah E , Allen Katrina J , Nixon Rosemary L
Published: October 2012

There is an increasing awareness of food allergies in the community. Dermatologists frequently see patients with atopic eczema, where parents are extremely concerned about the role of food allergy. Advice given to parents regarding the timing of introduction of solid foods has changed markedly over the past decade. Whereas previous advice advocated delaying the introduction of solid foods until the infant's gastrointestinal system had matured, recent studies suggest that the introduction of solids from around 4 to 6 months may actually prevent the development of allergies. Studies on maternal dietary restrictions during pregnancy and lactation have led researchers to believe that antigen avoidance does not play a significant role in the prevention of atopic disease. Breastfeeding exclusively for 4 to 6 months has multiple benefits for mother and child, however, it does not convincingly prevent food allergies or decrease atopic eczema. New evidence suggests that the use of hydrolysed formulas does not delay or prevent atopic eczema or food allergy. This article aims to highlight current evidence and provide an update for dermatologists on the role of food exposure in the development of atopic disease, namely atopic eczema.
Evaluation of magnifying endoscopy using narrow band imaging using ex vivo bile duct (with video)
Authors: Ishida Yusuke , Okabe Yoshinobu , Kaji Ryohei , Yasumoto Makiko , Sasaki Yu , Ushijima Tomoyuki , Sugiyama Gen , Kitasato Yuhei , Horiuchi Hiroyuki , Kinoshita Hisafumi , Tsuruta Osamu , Sata Michio
Published: October 2012

Background and Aim

Detailed endoscopic findings of the bile duct mucosa, even of the non‐neoplastic mucosa, have not yet been established. The aim of the present study was to compare a currently used video cholangioscope (CCS) with a magnifying endoscope (ME) that is commonly used for the gastrointestinal tract, for visualization of the bile duct mucosa.

Methods

Ten freshly resected common bile ducts were used in this study. We observed the non‐neoplastic bile duct mucosa with CCS and ME, and carried out both conventional white light imaging and narrow band imaging. After histological diagnosis, the 10 specimens were classified into three categories according to the degree of histological inflammation: normal to mild, moderate, and severe. Then, we examined the relationship between the magnifying endoscopic findings and the histopathological findings.

Results

In eight of the 10 cases, the visualization obtained with CCS was inferior to that obtained by ME. Five specimens were classified as normal to mild inflammation, and many oval‐shaped, depressed areas and a fine, regular network of the microvessels were observed by ME on the mucosal surfaces of these specimens. The remaining specimens were classified as moderate or severe inflammation, and the aforementioned findings could not be clearly visualized.

Conclusion

CCS does not allow visualization of the bile duct mucosa with high sensitivity. Oval‐shaped depressed areas and a fine, regular network of microvessels are characteristic endoscopic features of non‐neoplastic bile duct mucosa without inflammation.
Short‐term gain and long‐term pain: Lessons learnt from the control of Lachnagrostis filiformis (fairy grass) in Victoria, Australia
Authors: Warnock Andrew D. , Florentine Singarayer K. , Graz F. Patrick , Westbrooke Martin E.
Published: October 2012

The indigenous Lachnagrostis filiformis colonized extensive areas of dry lake beds in Victoria, Australia, during the drought from 1997 to 2009. Large numbers of the plants' detached seed heads disperse in the wind, lodging against nearby housing, fences and other obstacles. This accumulation of material creates a fire hazard, degrades townships' aesthetics and presents a nuisance to the communities of lake‐side towns. This study aimed to examine the effects of various control methods on L. filiformis in the short and long term. Although herbicide applications, slashing, grazing and burning were found to be effective in controlling the blown L. filiformis seed heads in the short term, they failed to prevent subsequent reinvasion and can increase its abundance in the long term. The late application of herbicide resulted in an increase in the foliage cover and seed‐head biomass of L. filiformis by up to 37% and 150%, respectively, in the year following the treatment application. The results from this study highlight how management focused on achieving short‐term goals, without consideration of the successional trajectory after implementation, can not only fail but be counter‐productive in the long term. In order to achieve sustainable management, the fundamental ecological processes that promote the establishment and persistence of the weed need to be addressed.
Big Society as Big Government: Cameron's Governmentality Agenda
Authors: Bulley Dan , Sokhi-Bulley Bal
Published: October 2012

Research Highlights and Abstract

The article seeks to make a contribution in the following areas:

Demonstrate that the ‘Big Society’ agenda, while based on a dichotomy with ‘Big Government’, in fact produces a diffusion of bigger, better government throughout British society. Illustrate that despite claims of the Big Society being a matter of empowerment, its diverse tactics and techniques of what Foucault calls ‘governmentality’, or the ‘conduct of conduct’, shows the opposite: management and control. Outline the logic of the Big Society and how it has played out in two important policies of the Coalition Government: National Citizen Service and Community Resilience. Suggest that while the ‘Big Society’ targets widespread behavioural change, the ultimate aim is to produce a population of efficient, responsible, productive and self-governing individuals and communities.

Cameron's flagship policy of the ‘Big Society’ rests on a society/government dichotomy, diagnosing a ‘broken society’ caused by ‘big government’ having assumed the role communities once played. The remedy is greater social responsibility and the ‘Big Society’. This article argues that the dichotomy is deceptive. We aim to show that the Big Society is big government, as it employs techniques for managing the conduct of individuals and communities such that the mentality of government, far from being removed or reduced, is bettered and made more efficient. To illustrate this, we explore two major initiatives: the National Citizen Service and the Community Resilience programme. These projects demonstrate how practices of informing and guiding the conduct of individuals both produce agents and normalise certain values, resulting in the population being better known and controlled. Thus, far from lessening government and empowering people, the Big Society extends governmentality throughout the social body.
Development of Abstract Grammatical Categorization in Infants
Authors: Cyr Marilyn , Shi Rushen
Published: October 2012

This study examined abstract syntactic categorization in infants, using the case of grammatical gender. Ninety‐six French‐learning 14‐, 17‐, 20‐, and 30‐month‐olds completed the study. In a preferential looking procedure infants were tested on their generalized knowledge of grammatical gender involving pseudonouns and gender‐marking determiners. The pseudonouns were controlled to contain no phonological or acoustical cues to gender. The determiner gender feature was the only information available. During familiarization, some pseudonouns followed a masculine determiner and others a feminine determiner. Test trials presented the same pseudonouns with different determiners in correct (consistent with familiarization gender pairing) versus incorrect gender agreement. Twenty‐month‐olds showed emerging knowledge of gender categorization and agreement. This knowledge was robust in 30‐month‐olds. These findings demonstrate that abstract, productive grammatical representations are present early in acquisition.
Social Mobility, Regression to the Mean and the Cognitive Development of High Ability Children from Disadvantaged Homes
Authors: Jerrim John , Vignoles Anna
Published: October 2012

A gap in cognitive skill between richer and poorer children is evident from a very early age. Some studies have also suggested that highly able children from disadvantaged homes are overtaken by their rich but less able peers before the age of 10 years, in terms of their cognitive skill. This finding has become a widely cited ‘fact’ within the academic literature and has had a major influence on public policy and political debate. We show that this finding is vulnerable to a spurious statistical artefact known as regression to the mean and we propose the application of an alternative methodology to address this problem. After applying some simple adjustments for regression to the mean to data from the Millennium Cohort Study, we no longer find convincing evidence that able but disadvantaged pupils fall behind their more advantaged but less able peers.
Beyond Rio: Sustainable energy scenarios for the 21st century
Authors: McCollum David L. , Krey Volker , Riahi Keywan
Published: October 2012

Reaching the economic, environmental and sustainability objectives of all societies requires overcoming several major energy challenges; it necessitates rapid progress in multiple areas. The scenario pathways presented in this paper describe transformative changes toward these goals, taking a broad view of the four main energy challenges faced by society in the 21st century: providing universal access to modern energy for all; reducing the impacts of energy production on human health and the environment; avoiding dangerous climate change; and enhancing energy security. The overarching objective of the paper is to provide policy guidance on how to facilitate the transformation of the energy system to achieve these multiple energy objectives. Particular focus is given to the required pace of the transformation at both the global and regional levels, and to the types of financial and policy measures that will be needed to ensure a successful transition. Synergies and trade‐offs between the objectives are identified, and co‐benefits quantified. The paper makes an important contribution to the scenario literature by approaching the global transition toward sustainable development in a more integrated, holistic manner than is common in other studies.
Nursing protocol violations: detect, correct and communicate
Authors: te Beest Harma , van der Starre Cynthia , Tibboel Dick , van Dijk Monique
Published: October 2012

Aims and objectives: The Critical Nursing Situation Index (CNSI) is a checklist to detect nursing protocol violations. The objectives of this study were to determine incidences and severities of nursing protocol violations and to check whether corrective actions were taken.

Design: Prospective observational audit.

Methods: This study was performed in the Intensive Care Unit of the Erasmus MC‐Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.

The CNSI was applied in the period February 2009 to February 2010 by 14 purpose‐trained nurses whose interrater reliability had proved sufficient. The checklist addressed nine domains of nursing care: Basic care, Circulation, Respiration, Digestive tract, Infection, Invasive catheters, Medication, ECMO and Central nervous system. The trained nurses also recorded whether violations were discussed with the bedside nurse, whether they could be corrected; and whether they were justifiable. Protocol violations are justifiable when protocol adherence carries greater risk of harm to the patient.

Results: Protocol violations were identified for 987 of 8107 items (12·2%) checked in 238 observations in 126 patients. The percentage of protocol violations varied from 5% in the Medication domain to 26% in the Digestive tract domain. More than fifty percent (53·4%) of all protocol violations were corrected in the same shift; 22·3% of all protocol violations proved justifiable, however, these were rarely documented (6·4% of cases). Nurses' classification of the severity of the protocol violations was not reliable because linearly weighted kappa varied from 0 to 0·33.

Conclusions: The CNSI is a useful tool to monitor and correct nursing protocol violations.

Relevance to clinical practice: Timely identification and correction of protocol violations will reduce possible adverse events resulting from these violations. Furthermore, this study made us aware that protocol violations may be justifiable in clinical practice provided they are well documented.
Land Development in and around Protected Areas at the Wilderness Frontier
Authors: LEROUX SHAWN J. , KERR JEREMY T.
Published: October 2012

Protected areas’ chief conservation objectives are to include species within their boundaries and protect them from negative external pressures. Many protected areas are not achieving these goals, perhaps in part due to land development inside and outside protected areas. We conducted spatial analyses to evaluate the ability of Canadian protected areas to mitigate the effects of nearby land development. We investigated correlations of national patterns of land development in and around protected areas and then examined national patterns of roads, urban area, and croplands in protected areas. We calculated the amount of developed land in protected areas and within 25–100 km of protected‐area borders, the density of roads, and extent of urban and cropland area in protected areas. We constructed logistic‐regression models to test whether development in a protected area was associated with landscape and protected‐area characteristics. Land development was far less extensive inside than outside protected areas. However, several protected areas, particularly small southern areas near small urban centers had substantial development inside their boundaries, and nearly half of protected areas had roads. The cumulative extent of development within 50 km of protected areas was the best predictor of the probability of land development in protected areas. Canadian First Nations, industries, government, and nongovernmental organizations are currently planning an unprecedented number of new protected areas. Careful management of areas beyond protected‐area boundaries may prove critical to meeting their long‐term conservation objectives.

Desarrollo de Tierras Dentro y Alrededor de Áreas Protegidas en la Frontera Silvestre
LinkIT: A Ludic Elicitation Game for Eliciting Risk Perceptions
Authors: Cao Yan , McGill William L.
Published: October 2012

The mental models approach, a leading strategy to develop risk communications, involves a time‐ and labor‐intensive interview process and a lengthy questionnaire to elicit group‐level risk perceptions. We propose that a similarity ratings approach for structural knowledge elicitation can be adopted to assist the risk mental models approach. The LinkIT game, inspired by games with a purpose (GWAP) technology, is a ludic elicitation tool designed to elicit group understanding of the relations between risk factors in a more enjoyable and productive manner when compared to traditional approaches. That is, consistent with the idea of ludic elicitation, LinkIT was designed to make the elicitation process fun and enjoyable in the hopes of increasing participation and data quality in risk studies. Like the mental models approach, the group mental model obtained via the LinkIT game can hence be generated and represented in a form of influence diagrams. In order to examine the external validity of LinkIT, we conducted a study to compare its performance with respect to a more conventional questionnaire‐driven approach. Data analysis results conclude that the two group mental models elicited from the two approaches are similar to an extent. Yet, LinkIT was more productive and enjoyable than the questionnaire. However, participants commented that the current game has some usability concerns. This presentation summarizes the design and evaluation of the LinkIT game and suggests areas for future work.
Employee Misuse of Information Technology Resources: Testing a Contemporary Deterrence Model
Authors: D'Arcy John , Devaraj Sarv
Published: October 2012

Recent research in information systems and operations management has considered the positive impacts of information technology (IT). However, an undesirable side effect of firms’ increasing reliance on IT to support the distribution and delivery of goods and services to customers is a greater exposure to a diverse set of IT security risks. One such risk is intentional employee misuse of technology resources. In this article, we draw upon modern deterrence frameworks to develop a predictive model of technology misuse intention that incorporates formal and informal sanctions as well as employment context factors. The model specifies previously untested relationships between formal and informal sanctions, thereby providing fresh insight into the role of sanctions in deterring technology misuse in organizations. Our results suggest that a predisposition toward the need for social approval and moral beliefs regarding the behavior are key determinants of technology misuse. Contrary to criminological research that has questioned the relative importance of formal sanctions in the deterrence process, we also found that the threat of formal sanctions has both direct and indirect influences on technology misuse intention. Further, from an employment context standpoint, employees who spend more working days away from the office (i.e., “virtual” mode) appear more inclined to misuse their organization's technology resources. The findings have implications for the research and practice of technology management.
An Empirical Analysis of Virtual Goods Permission Rights and Pricing Strategies
Authors: Ke Dan , Ba Sulin , Stallaert Jan , Zhang Zhongju
Published: October 2012

With the rapid development of the virtual world industry in the past few years, trading of virtual goods and services has grown significantly. Virtual goods creators can set different permissions to their creations, such as the length of usage, the ability to copy or modify a virtual good, or the ability to give the good to others. The permissions of virtual goods endow their creators with additional power to control the allocation and exchange of virtual goods in a virtual world. We examine how the unique virtual goods permission settings (copy, modify, and transfer) and other factors are associated with virtual goods prices. Using data from a Second Life marketplace, we find that permissions of virtual goods are not random, as creators strategically set the permissions for their virtual creations. Our results show that the copy and transfer permissions are significant factors associated with virtual goods prices. The impact of other factors on virtual goods prices is analyzed and managerial implications are discussed.
The Dialogical Model: Developing Academic Knowledge for and from Practice
Authors: Avenier Marie Jose , Cajaiba Aura Parmentier
Published: October 2012

In accordance with EMR's will to promote the diffusion of research findings to practice, we propose a methodological framework for developing and communicating academic knowledge relevant for practice: the dialogical model. This model of engaged scholarship comprises five activities: specifying a research question, elaborating local knowledge, developing conceptual knowledge, communicating knowledge, and activating knowledge.

The current paper focuses on the early stage of research question design and presents the epistemological framework in which the model was initially developed. It also offers guidance on how to maintain academic value and practical relevance in tension throughout the research process. Examples illustrate how to construct research questions relevant both for academia and practice, and how to justify validity in pragmatic constructivism. This model can likewise be mobilized in other epistemological frameworks, particularly for knowledge generation purposes. It enriches the researchers’ methodological toolbox by adding a new procedural tool that provides valuable guidelines from the very start of research projects.
Prescription of Testosterone-Lowering Medications for Sex Offender Treatment in German Forensic-Psychiatric Institutions
Authors: Turner Daniel , Basdekis-Jozsa Raphaela , Briken Peer
Published: October 2012

Introduction

Different clinical guidelines suggest using testosterone-lowering medications (TLM) in sex offender treatment in addition to psychotherapy. Within Germany, there are two officially approved agents. So far, no current data exist about the routine use of TLM in a clinical context.

Aim

The present observational study evaluates the frequency of the prescription of TLM and other medications in sex offender treatment in German forensic-psychiatric institutions. Experts are asked about the observed effects and side effects of TLM.

Method

The heads of all 69 German forensic-psychiatric hospitals and outpatient clinics were asked to fill out a questionnaire assessing offender characteristics and treatment methods in use.

Main Outcome Measures

Main outcome measures were the number of patients being treated with TLM and other pharmacological agents for reducing sexual drive. Further effects and side effects of the agents were evaluated.

Results

Thirty-two participating institutions reported on 3,963 patients, 611 of them being sex offenders (15.4%). Most sex offenders had been convicted for child sexual abuse (39.8%) or a sexual assault/rape (37.6%). Almost all sex offenders were treated psychotherapeutically and 37% were receiving an additional pharmacological treatment. Of all the sex offenders, 15.7% were treated with TLM; 10.6% were treated with a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist; and 5.1% were treated with cyproterone acetate. Of these, 26.0–75.4% showed improvements in such outcomes as reduction of frequency and/or intensity of sexual thoughts. The remaining 21.3% of sex offenders who received a pharmacological agent were treated with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (11.5%) or antipsychotic medications (9.8%).

Conclusions

TLM are a frequently used addition to psychotherapy in sex offenders. In light of the lack of controlled clinical trials and the many side effects, benefits and risks should always be thoroughly assessed.
Intracavernous Delivery of Freshly Isolated Stromal Vascular Fraction Rescues Erectile Function by Enhancing Endothelial Regeneration in the Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Mouse
Authors: Ryu Ji-Kan , Tumurbaatar Munkhbayar , Jin Hai-Rong , Kim Woo Jean , Kwon Mi-Hye , Piao Shuguang , Choi Min Ji , Yin Guo Nan , Song Kang-Moon , Kang Yong-Jin , Koh Young Jun , Koh Gou Young , Suh Jun-Kyu
Published: October 2012

Introduction

Men with diabetic erectile dysfunction (ED) often have severe endothelial dysfunction and respond poorly to oral phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors.

Aim

To examine whether and how freshly isolated stromal vascular fraction (SVF) promotes cavernous endothelial regeneration and restores erectile function in diabetic animals.

Methods

Eight-week-old C57BL/6J mice were used. Diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin. SVF was isolated from epididymal adipose tissues of green fluorescence protein transgenic mice. At 8 weeks after the induction of diabetes, the animals were divided into six groups: controls, diabetic mice, and diabetic mice treated with a single intracavernous injection of phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) or SVF (1 × 104 cells, 1 × 105 cells, or 2 × 105 cells/20 µL, respectively).

Main Outcome Measures

Two weeks later, erectile function was measured by cavernous nerve stimulation. The penis was stained with antibodies to CD31, CD34, phosphohistone H3, phospho-endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), and vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A). We also performed Western blot for phospho-eNOS and eNOS, and determined cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) concentration in the corpus cavernosum tissue.

Results

Significant improvement in erectile function was noted in diabetic mice treated with SVF at concentrations of 1 × 105 and 2 × 105 cells, which reached up to 82% of the control values. Local delivery of SVF significantly increased cavernous endothelial cell proliferation, eNOS phosphorylation, and cGMP expression compared with that in the untreated group and the PBS-treated diabetic group. Intracavernous injection of SVF increased cavernous VEGF-A expression and induced recruitment of CD34(+)CD31(−) progenitor cells. Some SVF underwent differentiation into cavernous endothelial cells. SVF-induced promotion of cavernous angiogenesis and erectile function was abolished in the presence of VEGF-Trap, a soluble VEGF-A neutralizing antibody.

Conclusion

The results support the concept of cavernous endothelial regeneration by use of SVF as a curative therapy for diabetic ED.
Testicular Augmentation Using Chin Implants
Authors: Ugarte y Romano Fernando , González Serrano Adolfo
Published: October 2012

Introduction

Disturbances in testicular integrity have the potential to cause severe concerns about masculinity, body image, and sexual function. Testicular volume replacement surgery with prosthesis has been known about since 1941, although esthetic procedures for testicular augmentation have not been satisfactory.

Aim

To describe an unprecedented testicular augmentation surgical technique that is specially focused on preserving testicular function and providing a favorable esthetic outcome.

Methods

We present a case of a 45-year-old man with body dysmorphic disorder. Surgical treatment using a new technique by placing a chin implant on the testicle was offered and accepted.

Results

Good symmetry between both testicles was achieved. No complications were reported. One month after the procedure, the patient started a satisfactory sex life. Functional monitoring was normal during the year after the procedure.

Conclusion

This technique is unprecedented in literature, it represents a safe and effective therapeutic alternative; nevertheless, more experience in performing this procedure is needed.
Long-Term Changes of Sexual Function in Men with Obstructive Sleep Apnea After Initiation of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure
Authors: Budweiser Stephan , Luigart Ruth , Jörres Rudolf A. , Kollert Florian , Kleemann Yannick , Wieland Wolf F. , Pfeifer Michael , Arzt Michael
Published: October 2012

Introduction

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), particularly intermittent nocturnal hypoxemia, is associated with erectile dysfunction (ED).

Aim

We investigated in patients with OSA whether continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy has a long-term effect on sexual function, including ED, in the presence of other risk factors for ED.

Methods

Within a long-term observational design, we reassessed 401 male patients who had been referred for polysomnography, with respect to erectile and overall sexual function. Mean ± standard deviation follow-up time was 36.5 ± 3.7 months. Patients with moderate to severe ED were stratified according to the regular use of CPAP.

Main Outcome Measure

Changes of sexual function were assessed by the 15-item International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-15) questionnaire, including the domains erectile function (EF), intercourse satisfaction, orgasmic function (OF), sexual desire (SD), and overall satisfaction (OS).

Results

Of the 401 patients, 91 returned a valid IIEF-15 questionnaire at follow-up. Their baseline characteristics were not different from those of the total study group. OSA (apnea–hypopnea index >5/hour) had been diagnosed in 91.2% of patients. In patients with moderate to severe ED (EF domain <17), CPAP users (N = 21) experienced an improvement in overall sexual function (IIEF-15 summary score; P = 0.014) compared with CPAP non-users (N = 18), as well as in the subdomains OF (P = 0.012), SD (P = 0.007), and OS (P = 0.033). Similar results were obtained in patients with poor overall sexual dysfunction (IIEF-15 summary score <44). In patients with moderate to severe ED and low mean nocturnal oxygen saturation (≤93%, median), also the EF subdomain improved in CPAP users vs. non-users (P = 0.047).

Conclusions

These data indicate that long-term CPAP treatment of OSA and the related intermittent hypoxia can improve or preserve sexual function in men with OSA and moderate to severe erectile or sexual dysfunction, suggesting a certain reversibility of OSA-induced sexual dysfunctions.
The Impact of Parental Bonding on Sexual Distress in Women with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Bargiota Alexandra , Dimitropoulos Konstantinos , Mouzas Odysseas , Melekos Michael , Tzortzis Vassilios , Koukoulis Georgios
Published: October 2012

Introduction

Psychosomatic and social issues have been found to be determinants of sexual distress in diabetic and non-diabetic populations. However, the role of parental bonding as a determinant for sexual distress has not been studied in women with type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM-1).

Aim

To study the role of parental care and overprotection, in the pathogenesis of sexual distress in women with DM-1.

Methods

Seventy-seven women with uncomplicated DM-1 and 77 healthy controls were enrolled in the study. The Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS), the General Health Questionnaire-28, and the Parental Bonding Instrument were used to evaluate sexual distress, general health and bonding with parents, respectively.

Main Outcome Measures

To assess the role of parental bonding as risk factor for sexual distress, in women with DM-1.

Results

Women with DM-1 had significantly higher FSDS scores compared with controls. Furthermore, women with DM-1 had significantly higher maternal and paternal care, and lower maternal overprotection in comparison with the healthy ones. Paternal overprotection and general health were similar in both groups (P > 0.05). Sexual distress was more frequent in women with DM-1 (31.43% vs. 8.57% of controls, P < 0.05).

Diabetic women with sexual distress had lower maternal care, higher maternal overprotection and lower paternal overprotection compared to diabetics without sexual distress (P < 0.05). No difference was found in the paternal care between the two groups (P > 0.05). Moreover, sexually distressed DM-1 women had worse general health parameters in comparison with the non-sexually distressed diabetics (P < 0.05). In the DM-1 group, low maternal care and low paternal overprotection were significant risk factors for sexual distress (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Parental care and overprotection can lead to sexual distress and, therefore, to Female Sexual Dysfunction in DM-1 women. Evaluation of parental bonding is necessary in DM-1 women with distressing sexual problems.
The Global Online Sexuality Survey (GOSS): The United States of America in 2011 Chapter II: Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors Utilization Among English Speakers
Authors: Shaeer Osama
Published: October 2012

Introduction

Utility of phosphodiesterase inhibitors (PDEi's) for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) has been the focus of experimental and clinical studies. However, public preferences, attitudes, and experiences with PDEi's are rarely addressed from a population/epidemiology viewpoint. The Global Online Sexuality Survey (GOSS) is a worldwide epidemiologic study of sexuality and sexual disorders, first launched in the Middle East in 2010, followed by the United States in 2011.

Aim

To describe the utilization rates, trends, and attitudes toward PDEi's in the United States in the year 2011.

Methods

GOSS was randomly deployed to English-speaking male Web surfers in the United States via paid advertising on Facebook®, comprising 146 questions.

Main Outcome Measures

Utilization rates and preferences for PDEi's by brand.

Results

Six hundred three subjects participated; mean age 53.43 years ± 13.9. Twenty-three point seven percent used PDEi's on more consistent basis, 37.5% of those with ED vs. 15.6% of those without ED (recreational users). Unrealistic safety concerns including habituation were pronounced. Seventy-nine point six percent of utilization was on prescription basis. PDEi's were purchased through pharmacies (5.3% without prescription) and in 16.5% over the Internet (68% without prescription). Nine point six percent nonprescription users suffered coronary heart disease. Prescription use was inclined toward sildenafil, generally, and particularly in severe cases, and shifted toward tadalafil in moderate ED and for recreational use, followed by vardenafil. Nonprescription utilization trends were similar, except in recreational use where sildenafil came first.

Conclusion

In the United States unrealistic safety concerns over PDEi's utility exist and should be addressed. Preference for particular PDEi's over the others is primarily dictated by health-care providers, despite lack of guidelines that govern physician choice. Online and over-the-counter sales of PDEi's are common, and can expose a subset of users to health risks. Recreational use of PDEi's is common, and could be driven by undiagnosed premature ejaculation.
Factors Influencing Distress Toward Erectile Dysfunction and Attitude Toward Erectile Dysfunction Drugs Among Middle-Aged and Elderly Chinese Women and Men in Hong Kong
Authors: Liong Chan Ching Mario
Published: October 2012

Aim

This study aims to explain distress toward erectile dysfunction (ED), attitude toward ED drugs, and experiences with ED drug use in terms of sexual attitudes, relationship satisfaction, and sociodemographic factors among the middle-aged and elderly Chinese population. Studies show that a significant number of middle-aged and elderly men in Asia suffer from ED. However, people's attitudes toward ED drugs are not positive. Few studies have sought to reveal the influencing factors of this negative attitude.

Methods

Nine hundred forty-six Hong Kong women and men aged 36–80 with stable partners were administered a structured questionnaire through face-to-face street-intercept survey. Self-reporting on single-item questions using a five-point Likert scale was adopted for most of the variables, including attitude toward sex, relationship satisfaction, distress toward ED, and attitude toward ED drugs. Perceived importance of sex in an intimate relationship and attitude toward sex were assessed through three items. Respondents were asked to report whether they had taken ED drugs or bought ED drugs for their partners.

Results

While perceived importance of sex in an intimate relationship and distress toward ED both contributed to the estimation of attitudes toward ED drugs for both genders, relationship satisfaction was only associated with men's attitude, while women's attitude was related to two other factors: relationship status and income level. Both age and attitude toward ED drugs influenced experiences with ED drug use for women and men. Men's experience with ED drug use was further related to the perceived importance of sex and to men's self-esteem and relationship status.

Conclusion

Results of this study could help identify people who are disturbed by ED but reluctant to seek treatment. Clinicians and public health policy makers could make use of the findings to encourage proper understanding of ED.
Radical Cystectomy in Patients with Preexisting Three-Piece Inflatable Penile Prosthesis
Authors: Segal Robert L. , Readal Nathaniel , Pieororazio Philip M. , Kutlu Omer , Schoenberg Mark , Bivalacqua Trinity J.
Published: October 2012

Introduction

Radical cystectomy with urinary diversion is the treatment of choice for muscle-invasive, and certain populations with non-invasive, urothelial carcinoma of the bladder. There have not been any reports to date on patients undergoing this surgery who have had previous placement of an inflatable penile prosthesis.

Aim

To present the outcomes of four patients with pre-existing inflatable penile prostheses (IPP) with reservoirs within the space of Retzius who were subsequently treated with radical cystectomy for bladder cancer management.

Methods

After obtaining institutional review board approval, the demographic, clinical, and pathologic data were reviewed in the Johns Hopkins Cystectomy Database for patients who underwent radical cystectomy for bladder cancer from 1994 to 2012. A case series of four patients is presented who had a preexisting IPP and their post-operative course and long-term outcomes are reviewed.

Results

All four patients had radical cystectomy and ileal conduit urinary diversion with no intra-operative or post-operative complications. One patient was not sexually active and therefore had the reservoir explanted and not replaced. The other three patients had the reservoir removed prior to bladder extirpation and the tubing capped, with reservoir replacement in the pseudocapsule at the termination of the procedure. In one patient an omental flap was used to ensure separation between the reservoir and ileal conduit. The devices were all functional intra-operatively and on follow-up.

Conclusions

As erectile dysfunction is more commonly being diagnosed and treated with IPP insertion at younger ages, surgeons will increasingly encounter pre-placed abdominal reservoirs when performing pelvic surgery. This case series of four patients undergoing radical cystectomy with prior-placed IPPs reveals that the functionality of the IPP can be preserved while still performing oncologically sound extirpative procedures.
Evaluation of pulsed electromagnetic field therapy in the management of patients with discogenic lumbar radiculopathy
Authors: Omar Aziza Sayed , Awadalla Magdy Ahmed , El‐Latif Maii Abd
Published: October 2012

Aim

This randomized clinical trial was designed to evaluate the effect of pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMF) in the management of patients with discogenic lumbar radiculopathy.

Methods

Forty patients suffering from lumbar radiculopathy due to lumbar disc prolapse were randomly assigned to one of two groups: a study group that included 20 patients who received PEMF therapy and a control group that included 20 patients who received placebo treatment. Both groups were evaluated at bases line and after 3 weeks by using a visual analogue scale (VAS) (0–10), somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEPs) for selected dermatomes and Modified Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire (OSW), and findings were compared before and after treatment.

Results

Significant differences were observed between both groups before and after application of PEMF therapy relative to VAS (P = 0.024), total OSW (P < 0.001), and other domains of OSW score (pain intensity [P = 0.009], personal care [P = 0.01], lifting [P < 0.001], walking [P < 0.001], sitting [P < 0.001], standing [P < 0.001], sleeping [P < 0.001], social life [P < 0.001] and employment [P = 0.003]). Other significant differences were observed between both groups relative to SSEP latency and amplitude of the evaluated dermatomes on the right side (P = 0.022 and P = 0.001, respectively), and left side latency and amplitude (P = 0.016 and P = 0.002, respectively).

Conclusion

PEMF therapy is an effective method for the conservative treatment of lumbar radiculopathy caused by lumbar disc prolapse. In addition to improvement of clinically observed radicular symptoms, PEMF also seems effective in reducing nerve root compression as evidenced by improvement of SSEP parameters after treatment.
Effects of Exogenous Abscisic Acid on Antioxidant System in Weedy and Cultivated Rice with Different Chilling Sensitivity under Chilling Stress
Authors: Wang G.‐J. , Miao W. , Wang J.‐Y. , Ma D.‐R. , Li J.‐Q. , Chen W.‐F.
Published: October 2012

Two chilling‐tolerant genotypes, that is, weedy rice WR03‐45 and cultivated rice Lijiangxintuanheigu and two chilling‐sensitive genotypes, that is, weedy rice WR03‐26 and cultivated rice Xiuzinuo were used in this study to investigate the effects of exogenous abscisic acid (ABA) on protection against chilling damage as well as on changes in physiological features. The results showed that under chilling stress the increased levels of superoxide radical (), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in WR03‐45 and Lijiangxintuanheigu were lower than those in WR03‐26 and Xiuzinuo. Activities of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), glutathione reductase (GR)) and non‐enzymatic antioxidants (ascorbate acid (AsA) and reduced glutathione (GSH)) were enhanced in WR03‐45 and Lijiangxintuanheigu, whereas they were decreased significantly in WR03‐26 and Xiuzinuo. Application of exogenous ABA reduced the chilling damage in the four genotypes. The pre‐treatment with ABA decreased the levels of , H2O2 and MDA caused by chilling stress in the four genotypes through increasing the activities of SOD, CAT, APX, GR and the contents of AsA and GSH in the four genotypes under chilling stress. Moreover, pre‐treatment with Fluridone, the ABA biosynthesis inhibitor, prohibited the effects of ABA through enhancing the oxidative damages and suppressing the antioxidant defence systems under chilling stress. The results indicate the mechanism for rice with chilling tolerance is to enhance the capacity of antioxidant defence systems under chilling stress. Furthermore, ABA plays important roles in the tolerance of rice against chilling stress for it could induce the capacity of whole antioxidant defence systems including enzymatic and non‐enzymatic constitutions under chilling stress.
Role of Defibrillation Threshold Testing in the Contemporary Defibrillator Patient Population
Authors: VISCHER ANNINA S. , STICHERLING CHRISTIAN , KÜHNE MICHAEL S. , OSSWALD STEFAN , SCHAER BEAT A.
Published: October 2012

Role of Defibrillation Threshold Testing. 
Introduction: Defibrillation threshold (DFT) testing has been performed to prove functionality of the implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD). Over the past years it has become increasingly controversial because of possible morbidity and mortality. The goal of this study was to determine unsuccessful shock testing and report strategies used to overcome these problems.

Methods and Results: A total of 314 patients with a de novo implantation of an ICD and 127 patients receiving a generator exchange were identified retrospectively. All patients underwent defibrillation threshold testing after induction of VF using a low‐energy T‐wave shock during the intervention, 2 shock tests after de novo implantations, 1 after generator change. A safety margin of 10 J or more was requested. Seven (2.3%) patients in the de novo group and 2 patients (1.4%) in the generator exchange group could not be defibrillated using the standard approach. All of those patients had either chronic amiodarone therapy, secondary prevention or a cardiac resynchronization therapy device (CRT). In univariate analysis, amiodarone therapy, dilated cardiomyopathy, and lower ejection fraction were predictors of failure.

Conclusion: Our study's results as well as a review of the current literature favor shock testing, especially in patients with specific risk factors as mentioned above. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 24, pp. 437‐441, April 2013)
Impact of the Number of Blood Pressure Measurements on Blood Pressure Classification in US Adults: NHANES 1999–2008
Authors: Handler Joel , Zhao Yumin , Egan Brent M.
Published: October 2012

J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich). 2012;14:751–759. ©2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Clinical guidelines recommend averaging ≥2 blood pressure (BP) measurements on each visit. Only one BP is measured on many clinical visits, especially if the value is <120/<80 mm Hg, ie, normal. The impact of this practice on accurate assignment of BP category is incompletely defined. Data were analyzed from 22,641 adults 18 years and older who had 3 BP readings in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys 1999–2008. BP category defined by initial measurement was compared with the category determined by mean of the first and second, first through third, and second and third readings. Among 8553 nonhypertensive patients with initial BP <120/<80 mm Hg, 2.9%, 3.3%, and 6.7%, respectively, were reclassified as prehypertensive, ie, BP 120–139/80–89 mm Hg, and two patients as stage 1 hypertension (140–159/90–99 mm Hg). In 733 treated hypertensive patients with initial BP <120/<80 mm Hg, 5.1%–8.9% were reclassified as prehypertensive and only one patient as hypertensive. Among nonhypertensive and hypertensive patients with initial BP in the prehypertensive range, 8.0%–23.6% were reclassified as normal. Among stage 1 and 2 hypertensive patients based on initial BP, 18.2%–33.5% were reclassified to lower BP categories. By multivariable logistic regression, older age and higher systolic and diastolic BP were associated with reclassification to a lower BP category. In nonhypertensive and hypertensive patients with normal initial BP values, one BP measurement appears adequate as <10% are re‐classified as prehypertensive and <0.5% as hypertensive. In contrast, patients with an initial BP above normal are often reclassified to a lower category, which supports recommendations for additional measurements.