bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards an Integrated Model of Interoperability for Spatial Data Infrastructures
Authors: Manso Miguel‐Ángel , Wachowicz Monica , Bernabé Miguel‐Ángel
Published: March 2009

Although there is a vast literature available on interoperability models, and their respective interoperability levels, limited research has been carried out on the development of interoperability models for the implementation of Spatial Data Infrastructures. This article demonstrates the important role of metadata elements in the formalisation of interoperability models for the implementation of Spatial Data Infrastructures. It describes an approach for designing an integrated interoperability model based on the definition of a common template that integrates seven interoperability levels. They are: technical, syntactic, semantic, pragmatic, dynamic, conceptual and organisational levels. A non‐hierarchical structure is proposed to ensure the relationship among these interoperability levels.
Simple DEM‐Based Methods to Delineate Channel Networks for Hydrogeomorphological Mapping
Authors: Matsunaga Kohei , Nakaya Tomoki , Sugai Toshihiko
Published: March 2009

To delineate channel networks from DEMs regardless of landform type, this article proposes a new method using slope‐weighted flow accumulation. To validate the method, SRTM‐3, a global DEM dataset with a resolution of approximately 90 m, was used for analysis of the Loess Plateau, China. Channel networks delineated with and without slope‐weighted flow accumulation were derived in both uplands and hilly lands for comparison. In the weighted flow accumulation method, the thresholds for delineating the channels were defined by detecting a turning point in the frequency distribution of the weighted flow accumulation function or by visual similarity with drainage channels extracted from topographic maps. The channel networks delineated with weighting showed closer correlation with a topographic map than the channel networks without weighting, despite the differences in thresholds. Moreover, the channel networks delineated with weighting represented the differences between landform types, while the channel networks without weighting did not. Weighting on the basis of the slope angle shows promise as a general channel delineation method which reflects the actual topography due to its hydrogeomorphological functions.
From myth to reality: Globalisation and public spending in OECD countries revisited
Authors: BUSEMEYER MARIUS R.
Published: March 2009

The prevailing but not unchallenged ‘conventional wisdom’ in the literature dealing with the impact of globalisation on public spending is that the effects of increased openness can be compensated through the welfare state. Repeatedly, studies have found little evidence for a ‘race to the bottom’ in taxation or spending. This research note shows that it is premature to conclude that globalisation has no negative impact on public spending. By extending the period of observation into the 2000s, by looking at changes in openness and spending instead of their levels, and by disentangling the effects of openness in the cross‐sectional and over‐time dimensions of variation, this article shows that the association between increased openness and spending is clearly negative. Although the contribution of this research note is mainly empirical, some theoretical arguments are presented, emphasising the long‐term nature and complexity of policy making in the politics of globalisation.
The influence of presidential heads of state on government formation in European democracies: Empirical evidence
Authors: KANG SHIN‐GOO
Published: March 2009

Theories of coalition politics have paid little attention to the role of presidential heads of state in the government‐formation process. This article investigates the influence of presidents on the two most important features of government‐formation outcomes: the identity of the party of the prime minister and the party composition of the coalition. Substantial evidence is found that presidents in European democracies have managed to induce their preferred governments from the potential alternatives. The results also suggest that parliament‐selected presidents and popularly elected presidents have different mechanisms of influence on these outcomes. The investigation sheds new light on the government‐formation process in semi‐presidential as well as in pure parliamentary systems.
Why the democratic nation‐state is still legitimate: A study of media discourses
Authors: HURRELMANN ACHIM , KRELL‐LALUHOVÁ ZUZANA , NULLMEIER FRANK , SCHNEIDER STEFFEN , WIESNER ACHIM
Published: March 2009

Focusing on media discourses, this article maps the communicative reproduction of legitimacy in Great Britain, the United States, Germany and Switzerland. It argues that political communication constitutes a distinctive dimension of legitimation that should be studied alongside public opinion and political behaviour. Research on legitimation discourses can help us understand why the legitimacy of established democracies remains stable in spite of the challenges of globalisation: Delegitimating communication tends to focus on relatively marginal political institutions, while the core regime principles of the democratic nation‐state, which are deeply entrenched in the political cultures of Western countries, serve as anchors of legitimacy. These democratic principles also shape the normative benchmarks used to evaluate legitimacy, thus preventing a ‘de‐democratisation’ of legitimation discourses. Finally, the short‐lived nature of media interest as well as ritualistic legitimation practices shield the democratic nation‐state from many potentially serious threats to its legitimacy.
Measurement of cardiac output in normal pregnancy by a non‐invasive two‐dimensional independent Doppler device
Authors: KAGER Catharina C. M. , DEKKER Gus A. , STAM Monique C.
Published: March 2009

Aims: To compose a normogram regarding cardiac output during pregnancy measured with ultrasonic cardiac output monitor (USCOM), a non‐expensive simple continuous wave Doppler device and to investigate if this machine could be useful for haemodynamic monitoring during pregnancy.

Methods: Cardiac output was measured in 172 pregnant women with a gestational age < 21 weeks (n = 59), 21–32 weeks (n = 48), and > 32 weeks’ gestation (n = 48). Interobserver differences were determined by measuring 24 patients and comparing results between three different observers.

Results: A good signal could be obtained in 155 (90.2%) pregnant women. Haemodynamic profiles were in line with data published in the literature. In 9.8 % of cases it was difficult to get a good result. Interobserver variations between the research officer (CK) and two clinicians were good (r = 0.9359 and r = 0.9609).

Conclusion: USCOM appears to be a reliable and fast method to measure cardiac output compared with existing highly complex ultrasounds machines used in cardiology. It is easy to learn, cheap and quite reproducible between different observers. Further research is required to define its place in the management of hypertensive complications during pregnancy.
Cantharidin Use Among Pediatric Dermatologists in the Treatment of Molluscum Contagiosum
Authors: Coloe Jacquelyn , Morrell Dean S.
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  Cantharidin is cited often in the dermatology and pediatric literature as a valuable treatment option for molluscum contagiosum (MC). However, there have been no prospective, randomized, vehicle‐controlled trials that have been able to quantify cantharidin’s efficacy in MC. The purpose of this study was to determine the breadth of usage of cantharidin, most frequently used protocols, and common side effects seen with use of cantharidin. An eighteen question survey was administered to the Society of Pediatric Dermatology. The survey sought to evaluate treatments used in MC and experiences with cantharidin including: protocol, side effects, specific products used, and satisfaction with cantharidin. A total of 300 surveys were distributed via email, 101 surveys were initiated, and 95 (94%) of these were completed. Cantharidin, imiquimod, benign neglect, curettage, cryotherapy, and retinoids were the most common approaches to pediatric MC reported by respondents. Ninety‐two percent of respondents reported satisfaction with cantharidin’s efficacy, but 79% reported side effects, with discomfort/pain and blistering being the most common. Cantharidin is a common modality in the treatment of MC among pediatric dermatologists. While efficacy data is still lacking, subjective satisfaction with cantharidin is reported. Cantharidin remains a viable treatment option for children with MC.
Metastatic Cutaneous Crohn’s Disease in Children: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Keiler Susan , Tyson Patrice , Tamburro Joan
Published: March 2009

Abstract: Metastatic cutaneous Crohn’s disease is a rare complication of Crohn’s disease, especially in the pediatric population, and can present a diagnostic dilemma. Most of the reported cases of metastatic cutaneous Crohn’s disease in childhood have concurrent gastrointestinal symptoms and/or perianal disease to aid in the diagnosis. We present a case of a 13½‐year‐old girl whose initial symptom of Crohn’s disease was asymptomatic labial swelling. An overview of metastatic cutaneous Crohn’s disease in childhood is also provided.
A Novel Gel Formulation of 0.25% Tretinoin and 1.2% Clindamycin Phosphate: Efficacy in Acne Vulgaris Patients Aged 12 to 18 Years
Authors: Eichenfield Lawrence F. , Wortzman Mitchell
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  Treatments for mild to moderately severe acne usually combine retinoid and antimicrobial therapy. Recently, the US FDA approved the combination of 1.2% clindamycin (CLIN) and 0.025% tretinoin (RA) in a novel gel formulation for the treatment of mild to moderate acne, based on results from two 12‐week, multicenter, double‐blind Phase 3 trials in which patients were randomized to four treatment arms: CLIN/RA, CLIN, RA, and vehicle. The trials studied more than 4500 patients 12 years of age or older. In both trials, CLIN/RA gel produced significantly greater clinical improvements than vehicle or either monotherapy. CLIN/RA was safe and well tolerated in both trials and in a 52‐week safety follow‐up evaluation. The current study is a subgroup analysis that evaluates CLIN/RA’s effects on acne lesion prevalence in 12‐ to 18‐year‐old patients with mild to severe baseline acne severity. CLIN/RA significantly reduced the number of inflammatory, noninflammatory, and total acne lesions after 12 weeks of treatment (p ≤ 0.004) in 1,710 patients aged 12 to 18 years. Relatively greater improvements were seen following CLIN/RA treatment compared to CLIN or RA monotherapy, or the vehicle gel beginning as early as 2 weeks following treatment initiation. This novel CLIN/RA gel for treating acne is tolerable and safe and offers clinicians and teen aged patients a new and efficacious intervention for acne vulgaris.   [Abstract amended after online publication date June 8, 2009]
Lyme Disease as a Cause of Acropapular Dermatitis of Childhood
Authors: KENNEDY CAITLIN E. , AZFAR RAHAT S. , HONIG PAUL J.
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  Acropapular dermatitis of childhood is a symmetric self‐limited papulovesicular exanthem that classically occurs on the cheeks, extensor extremities, and buttocks in young children. The eruption of acropapular dermatitis of childhood represents a reaction to a variety of infections usually of viral origin. We present a child with typical findings of acropapular dermatitis of childhood whose serologic workup revealed an acute Lyme infection.
Achieving Effective Antidepressant Pharmacotherapy in Primary Care: The Role of Depression Care Management in Treating Late‐Life Depression
Authors: Bao Yuhua , Post Edward P. , Ten Have Thomas R. , Schackman Bruce R. , Bruce Martha L.
Published: March 2009

OBJECTIVES: To estimate the effect of an evidence‐based depression care management (DCM) intervention on the initiation and appropriate use of antidepressant in primary care patients with late‐life depression.

DESIGN: Secondary analysis of data from a randomized trial.

SETTING: Community, primary care.

PARTICIPANTS: Randomly selected individuals aged 60 and older with routine appointments at 20 primary care clinics randomized to provide a systematic DCM intervention or care as usual.

METHODS: Rates of antidepressant use and dose adequacy of patients in the two study arms were compared at each patient assessment (baseline, 4, 8, and 12 months). For patients without any antidepressant treatment at baseline, a longitudinal analysis was conducted using multilevel logistic models to compare the rate of antidepressant treatment initiation, dose adequacy when initiation was first recorded, and continued therapy for at least 4 months after initiation between study arms. All analyses were conducted for the entire sample and then repeated for the subsample with major or clinically significant minor depression at baseline.

RESULTS: Rates of antidepressant use and dose adequacy increased over the first year in patients assigned to the DCM intervention, whereas the same rates held constant in usual care patients. In longitudinal analyses, the DCM intervention had a significant effect on initiation of antidepressant treatment (adjusted odds ratio (OR)=5.63, P<.001) and continuation of antidepressant medication for at least 4 months (OR=6.57, P=.04) for patients who were depressed at baseline.

CONCLUSIONS: Evidence‐based DCM models are highly effective at improving antidepressant treatment in older primary care patients.
Expression of retinoic acid receptor β in dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans
Authors: Xiaoli Zhou , Qinhe Fan
Published: March 2009

Background:  Retinoic acid receptor β (RAR β) has been shown to act as a tumor suppressor in many solid human tumors. To investigate the putative role of RAR β in dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP), we examined the expression of RAR β in DFSPs and analyzed the correlation of expression patterns between RAR β and cyclooxygenase (COX)‐2 as well as clinicopathological variables.

Methods:  Using tissue microarray and immunohistochemistry, we evaluated nuclear RAR β staining and cytoplasm COX‐2 staining in 53 DFSPs.

Results:  48 DFSPs (90.58%) were immunopositive for RAR β, while 32 DFSPs (60.38%) were immunopositive for COX‐2. RAR β staining was significantly inversely correlated with COX‐2 staining (p < 0.001; r =−0.668).

Conclusions:  Our data indicated that RAR β expressed in DFSPs and correlated with COX‐2 expression. RAR β may be a potential therapeutic target for unresectable DFSP cases.
Marathon of Eponyms: 1 Albers‐Schönberg disease (osteopetrosis)
Authors: Scully C , Langdon J , Evans J
Published: March 2009

The use of eponyms has long been contentious, but many remain in common use, as discussed elsewhere (Editorial: Oral Diseases. 2009 in press). The use of eponyms in diseases of the head and neck is mainly in specialities dealing with medically compromised individuals (paediatric dentistry, special care dentistry, oral and maxillofacial medicine, oral and maxillofacial pathology, oral and maxillofacial radiology and oral and maxillofacial surgery) and particularly by hospital‐centred practitioners. This series has selected some of the more recognised relevant eponymous conditions and presents them alphabetically. The information is based largely on data available from MEDLINE and a number of internet websites as noted below: the authors would welcome any corrections. This paper summarises data about Albers‐Schönberg disease.
Microbiota analysis of Caspian Sea yogurt, a ropy fermented milk circulated in Japan
Authors: UCHIDA Kenji , AKASHI Keiko , MOTOSHIMA Hidemasa , URASHIMA Tadasu , ARAI Ikichi , SAITO Tadao
Published: March 2009

We analyzed the microbiota of domestic ropy fermented milk, Caspian Sea yogurt (or ‘kasupikai yohguruto’ in Japanese), circulated in Japan. We collected six varieties from five localities. Lactococcus (L) lactis ssp. cremoris was isolated from all samples as the dominant strain at levels of 108−109 CFU/g. We show this strain produces an extracellular polysaccharide (EPS) that causes the unique characteristic viscosity of the product. From analysis of the RAPD pattern of 60 bacterial isolates from the six samples, we found that 59 strains from a total of 60 isolates were identical and produced this viscosity. Furthermore, PFGE analysis of representative strains from each sample indicated that the isolates could be classified into four subgroups. This suggests these L. lactis ssp. cremoris strains found in Caspian Sea yogurt may have been slightly mutated during subculture in Japan. In addition, Lactobacillus (L.) sakei ssp. sakei were isolated from three samples; L. plantarum, Gluconoacetobacter sacchari and Acetobacter aceti were isolated from two samples; and L. paracasei, L. kefiri, Leuconostoc (Leu.) mesenteroides were isolated from one sample.
Cloning of PRL and VIP cDNAs of the Java sparrow (Padda oryzivora)
Authors: HIYAMA Gen , SATO Tsukasa , ZADWORNY David , KANSAKU Norio
Published: March 2009

Complementary DNA (cDNA) of prolactin (PRL) and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) of the Java sparrow were cloned and sequenced. The proximal region of the PRL promoter was also identified. Java sparrow PRL was found to have 88.3, 88.3, and 89.1% sequence identity at the cDNA level to PRL of chicken, turkey, and duck, respectively. The predicted amino acid sequence had an overall similarity with a comparable region of chicken (91.4%), turkey (88.9%) and duck (92.0%) PRL. Based on the cDNA sequence and genomic structure of the chicken PRL gene, the proximal promoter was characterized. Sequence analysis of the proximal region of Java sparrow PRL promoter revealed a high degree of similarity to that of chicken, turkey and duck PRL promoters. Moreover, cDNA of prepro‐VIP was also cloned and sequenced. Java sparrow prepro‐VIP shows high similarity to chicken and turkey prepro‐VIP. However, the region upstream of the 5′ untranslated region of Java sparrow prepro‐VIP did not show similarity to that of chicken. These results suggest that the mechanisms, which regulate expression of the VIP gene, may be different between precocial and altricial birds, but expression of the PRL gene may be widely conserved in avian species.
Improved conception rates in sows inseminated with cryopreserved boar spermatozoa prepared with a more optimal combination of osmolality and glycerol in the freezing extender
Authors: OKAZAKI Tetsuji , ABE Shouhachiro , SHIMADA Masayuki
Published: March 2009

Cryoprotectant agents (CPAs) are added in freezing extenders to prevent intracellular ice crystal formation. However, it has been reported that high dose of CPAs confer toxicity on spermatozoa. Recently, the reduction of intracellular water by a high osmolality solution has also resulted in the suppression of ice crystal formation in spermatozoa, suggesting that the optimal combination of glycerol concentration and freezing extender osmolality could contribute to the development of effective sperm cryopreservation techniques. In this study, we investigated the motility, membrane and acrosomal integrity of frozen‐thawed boar spermatozoa treated with freezing extender (NSF) of varying osmolalities (300, 400, 500 mOsm/kg) and final concentrations of glycerol (0.5, 1, 2, 3%). The spermatozoa that were treated at 400 mOsm/kg and 2% glycerol showed significantly higher rates of motility and membrane integrity compared with those in other treatment groups. In addition, the conception and implantation rates of swine artificially inseminated with spermatozoa frozen by the novel freezing extender (conception; 79%, implantation; 57.5%) were significantly higher than those of frozen‐thawed spermatozoa treated in the conventional NSF (300 mOsm/kg, 3% glycerol) (conception; 29%, implantation; 33.8%). From these results, we concluded that the novel hyperosmotic (400 mOsm/kg) and low‐glycerol (final concentration 2%) freezing extender is beneficial for the cryopreservation of boar spermatozoa.
Relationships between tropomyosin and myosin heavy chain isoforms in bovine skeletal muscle
Authors: OE Mika , NAKAJIMA Ikuyo , MUROYA Susumu , SHIBATA Masahiro , CHIKUNI Koich
Published: March 2009

The composition of tropomyosin (TPM) and myosin heavy chain (MyHC) isoforms was analyzed in 10 physiologically different bovine muscles (masseter, diaphragm, tongue, semispinalis, pectoralis profundus, biceps femoris, psoas major, semimembranosus, longissimus thoracis and semitendinosus) to clarify the relationships between TPM and MyHC isoforms in different muscle fiber types. The content of TPM1 and TPM3 was different in muscles according to their function in muscle contraction, although the content of TPM2 was constantly about 50% of the total TPM in all muscles. The content of TPM1 was higher in semimembranosus, longissimus thoracis and semitendinosus, while that of TPM3 was higher in masseter and diaphragm. The high positive correlation between MyHC‐slow content and TPM3 content (r = 0.92) suggested a coexpression of TPM3 and MyHC‐slow isoforms in a muscle fiber. MyHC‐slow and TPM3 were expressed at the same level in masseter and diaphragm, whereas there was more TPM3 than MyHC‐slow in tongue and semispinalis, so it appears that the excess TPM3 in tongue and semispinalis is expressed with other MyHC isoforms. MyHC‐2a was the only fast type isoform expressed in tongue and semispinalis. Therefore, the excess TPM3 was composed of myofibrils with MyHC‐2a. The results suggested that a fiber expressing MyHC‐2a would be regulated delicately by changing the TPM isoform types.
London Murders: A Predictable Pattern?
Authors: Spiegelhalter David , Barnett Arthur
Published: March 2009

Four stabbings to death in a single day. Ninety murders in 7 months. Shocking figures—or are they? Knife crime makes the headlines almost daily but are Londoners really at increased risk of being murdered? David Spiegelhalter and Arthur Barnett investigate—and find a predictable pattern of murder.
Six Impossible Things Before Breakfast
Authors: Janeway William
Published: March 2009

The financial world is in meltdown—and it is the fault of modern financial theory. How did the theorists manage to believe so many impossible things for so long? William Janeway marvels and explains.
A Novel in Statistics
Authors: Yardley Jane
Published: March 2009

Jane Yardley spends her days organising clinical trials. By night she writes successful novels. Her latest involves mystery, wartime crime and Sibelius; and its heroine is a biostatistician. Why? Chocolate teddybears, a father who worked with toxic chemicals and a bookmaker's clerk made her do it …
Of Weekly Wages and the Price of Wheat—And Soaring IQS
Authors: Joyce Helen
Published: March 2009

Graphics can be extremely important in making information understandable. The man who invented statistical graphics was one of those few remarkable men who have changed the way we think. He was also a rogue. Helen Joyce looks at the charts—and the career—of Henry Playfair.
Best Ever Athlete?
Authors: Hilbe Joseph
Published: March 2009

Who was the best athlete the modern world has ever seen? Must we refer to ancient history to decide? Joseph Hilbe looks at the contenders.
Using Quality of Life to Evaluate Outcomes and Measure Effectiveness
Authors: Kober Ralph , Eggleton Ian R. C.
Published: March 2009

Evaluating the outcomes achieved by service providers who assist people with intellectual disabilities is extremely important in terms of ascertaining whether service providers achieve their goals. Furthermore, knowledge of the outcomes achieved by service providers better equips those charged with managing them to make strategic decisions to fulfill their accountability obligations for the best use of limited resources. The authors provide support for the emerging view that quality of life is an outcome measure that can be utilized to assess service providers' performance. To do this they modified a performance measurement framework to illustrate how quality of life can be incorporated in a comprehensive analysis of the outcomes achieved by various stakeholders of the service provider. They then used three examples drawn from the literature (relating to employment services, the U.S. state of Nebraska, and family quality of life), to highlight how this framework could be applied. Ideas are also presented on other areas where a comprehensive stakeholder analysis, incorporating quality of life measures, could form part of a service provider's performance evaluation. The authors review some issues that should be considered in relation to the implementation of a comprehensive performance measurement system that incorporates quality of life as one of the outcome measures.
Family Quality of Life Empowered by Family‐Oriented Support
Authors: Schippers Alice , Van Boheemen Marleen
Published: March 2009

Professional services for persons with intellectual disabilities (ID) have begun to attach more importance to their environment. The concept of (family‐related) quality of life proved to link very well with this idea and lent itself to constructing and evaluating services. One outcome was the emergence of equal partnerships between families, service providers, and other parties in the community. Within this context, the authors explored and described positive practices in supporting young adults with IDs by realizing their personal future plans based on partnerships, the concept of quality of life, and community support. Nine families were followed over a 2‐year period (2004–2006). Face‐to‐face interviews and a survey were conducted with young adults, family members, and professional supporters. Each family was individually supported in the realization of a personal future plan by an “intermediary” or go‐between. The results indicated the importance of partnerships among the participants. In creating such partnerships, all participants can be in control, although all parties involved needed extra support to enhance quality of life.
Utility of Logic Models to Plan Quality of Life Outcome Evaluations
Authors: Isaacs Barry , Clark Cinda , Correia Susana , Flannery John
Published: March 2009

Quality of life is widely accepted as an important concept in the evaluation of health and social services provided to persons with intellectual disabilities. While quality of life has been studied as a service outcome and measure of program improvement, its application to multiple levels of program delivery and evaluation remain unclear and can be difficult for community‐based agencies that lack resources. An approach using program logic models and including program staff can build evaluation capacity. Logic models can be used to link service components with relevant quality of life outcomes at short‐term, intermediate, and long‐term points in service delivery. The models can then guide the development of evaluation plans. A case example of how this approach is being used at a service agency in Toronto, Canada, is described. An explanation of how an agenda for quality of life program evaluation developed within the agency is provided, and links between service activities and quality of life outcomes are described. The integration of program logic models into an expanded organizational model defines how quality of life data can influence decision making about programs at the service, organizational, and system levels.
Survey Outcomes and Cross‐National Comparisons of Quality of Life With Respect to People With Intellectual Disabilities in Taiwan
Authors: Chou Yueh‐Ching , Schalock Robert
Published: March 2009

As studies of the quality of life (QoL) of adults with intellectual disabilities (ID) in Taiwan have been limited, the authors assessed how Taiwanese adults with ID experience their QoL, including comparisons with their counterparts in other countries. The study involved administering the Cross‐Cultural QoL Indicators Survey and the Quality of Life Questionnaire in 2004 and 2005 to a total of 481 adults with ID who either were living with their family or residing within a facility. Results indicated that the domain of “social inclusion” was the lowest for both adults using residential services or living with family. In addition, Taiwanese residents with ID have lower levels of overall QoL, particularly among those living in institutions; although they were easily satisfied with their lives, compared with their counterparts in other countries. The authors recommend that the improvement of QoL among persons with ID in Taiwan must not be ignored by the policy makers, practitioners, and their families, particularly with respect to enabling individuals with ID to be more included in society.
Quality of Life: From Concept to Future Applications in the Field of Intellectual Disabilities
Authors: Verdugo Miguel A. , Schalock Robert L.
Published: March 2009

The authors consider conclusions reached with respect to quality of life (QoL); these are examined in terms of both the past and present developments and within the context of three major areas. These three are (1) application of QoL through support and intervention; (2) the application to family QoL and the development of a working model; and (3) application of QoL for policy and evaluation. These conclusions are examined in relation to implications for public policy in terms of support and intervention, measurement and evaluation, with particular focus on a greater understanding and acceptance of the implications and structure involved in the QoL model and the importance of family QoL. The authors maintain that this should entail the development of applications that are empirically based and, wherever possible, take into account the complexity of mediator variables.
Activator‐binding domains of the SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex characterized in vitro are required for its recruitment to promoters in vivo
Authors: Ferreira Monica E. , Prochasson Philippe , Berndt Kurt D. , Workman Jerry L. , Wright Anthony P. H.
Published: March 2009

Interaction between acidic activation domains and the activator‐binding domains of Swi1 and Snf5 of the yeast SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex has previously been characterized in vitro. Although deletion of both activator‐binding domains leads to phenotypes that differ from the wild‐type, their relative importance for SWI/SNF recruitment to target genes has not been investigated. In the present study, we used chromatin immunoprecipitation assays to investigate the individual and collective importance of the activator‐binding domains for SWI/SNF recruitment to genes within the GAL regulon in vivo. We also investigated the consequences of defective SWI/SNF recruitment for target gene activation. We demonstrate that deletion of both activator‐binding domains essentially abolishes galactose‐induced SWI/SNF recruitment and causes a reduction in transcriptional activation similar in magnitude to that associated with a complete loss of SWI/SNF activity. The activator‐binding domains in Swi1 and Snf5 make approximately equal contributions to the recruitment of SWI/SNF to each of the genes studied. The requirement for SWI/SNF recruitment correlates with GAL genes that are highly and rapidly induced by galactose.
Development and Initial Validation of the Vaginal Penetration Cognition Questionnaire (VPCQ) in a Sample of Women with Vaginismus and Dyspareunia
Authors: Klaassen Maaike , Ter Kuile Moniek M.
Published: March 2009

Introduction

Although the relevance of cognitions has been implicated in the etiology, explanatory models, and treatment of female sexual pain disorders, an instrument that assesses vaginal penetration cognitions is nonexistent.

Aim

The aim of this study was to develop and to investigate the psychometric properties of the Vaginal Penetration Cognition Questionnaire (VPCQ). The VPCQ was explicitly designed to assess cognitions regarding vaginal penetration in women with vaginismus and dyspareunia.

Methods

A sample of 247 Dutch women with a female sexual dysfunction (FSD; 122 women with lifelong vaginismus and 125 women with dyspareunia) and 117 women without sexual complaints completed the questionnaire. Factor analyses were only conducted in the sample of women with FSD. Validation measures were conducted in both women with and without FSD.

Main Outcome Measure

All women completed the VPCQ and several additional questions regarding biographic and complaint characteristics.

Results

Conduction of factor analyses yielded five subscales regarding cognitions about vaginal penetration: “control cognitions,”“catastrophic and pain cognitions,”“self-image cognitions,”“positive cognitions,” and “genital incompatibility cognitions.” Reliability of these five VPCQ subscales ranged from 0.70 to 0.83, and the test–retest correlations were satisfactory. The five VPCQ subscales were reasonably stable across demographic variables and demonstrated good discriminant validity. All five subscales were able to detect significant differences between women with and without FSD. Additionally, the four subscales of the VPCQ concerning negative cognitions demonstrated the ability to differentiate between the two samples of women with FSD. Women with lifelong vaginismus reported lower levels of perceived penetration control and higher levels of catastrophic and pain cognitions, negative self-image cognitions, and genital incompatibility cognitions, when compared with women with dyspareunia.

Conclusions

The present study indicates that the VPCQ is a valid and reliable brief self-report measure for assessing cognitions regarding vaginal penetration in women with vaginismus or dyspareunia.
Impact on Erectile Function and Sexual Quality of Life of Couples: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial of Tadalafil Taken Once Daily
Authors: Rubio-Aurioles Eusebio , Kim Edward D. , Rosen Raymond C. , Porst Harmut , Burns Patrick , Zeigler Haoyue , Wong David G.
Published: March 2009

Introduction

Clinical research on erectile dysfunction (ED) has focused primarily on the male and the impact of treatment on their erectile function (EF) and sexual quality of life. However, ED affects the quality of life of both the male and the female partner. The literature examining the impact on the female partner resulting from treating the male’s ED is somewhat limited.

Aims

To determine the efficacy of tadalafil 5 mg taken once daily compared with placebo on men’s EF and sexual quality of life, and to determine the impact of this treatment on the female partner’s sexual quality of life.

Main Outcome Measures

The co-primary outcome measures for this study were changes from baseline to end point in the EF domain of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), the Sexual Encounter Profile (SEP) question 2 (SEP-2) and question 3 (SEP-3), and the Sexual Quality of Life (SQoL) domain of the Sexual Life Quality Questionnaire (SLQQ) (subject and partner).

Methods

Following a 4-week treatment-free run-in phase, 342 subjects and their partners were randomly assigned to either placebo (N = 78) or tadalafil 5 mg (N = 264) for 12 weeks. The subjects’ and partners’ responses to study measures were collected throughout the study.

Results

Compared with placebo, tadalafil-treated subjects showed a significant improvement on efficacy measures (P < 0.001) including changes in the IIEF-EF, SEP-2 and SEP-3. In addition, the sexual quality of life of men and their female partners, as measured by the SQoL domain, was significantly improved with tadalafil 5 mg taken once daily (P < 0.001) compared with placebo.

Conclusions

Tadalafil 5 mg once daily significantly improved EF and sexual quality of life for men with ED. In addition, the sexual quality of life of the female partners of the men treated with tadalafil was significantly improved.
Hypergonadotropic Hypogonadism in Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 2: A Case Report
Authors: Kwon Do-Young , Park Moon Ho
Published: March 2009

Introduction

The association between cerebellar ataxia and hypogonadism is seen rarely and is not well recognized. Spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) is an autosomal dominantly inherited, progressive ataxia disorder, and SCA type 2 (SCA2) characteristically presents with a highly variable phenotype with multisystemic involvement. Although the clinical spectrum of SCA2 is broad, hypogonadism has not been reported as an accompanying symptom.

Aim

To report a case study that describes hypergonadotropic hypogonadism as a non-neurological manifestation of cerebellar ataxia in a patient with a hereditary trinucleotide repeat expansion disorder, SCA2.

Methods

Case report of a man admitted to an academic medical center.

Results

A 45-year-old man with a history of azoospermia in work-up for infertility was admitted for evaluation of a left-side hand tremor, instability on walking and impaired balance. Upon physical examination, the patient had a micropenis about 3 cm in length and had decreased testicular size (12 cc each) on orchidometry, but normal secondary sexual characteristics and average stature. Laboratory tests showed the presence of hypergonadotropic hypogonadism. A brain magnetic resonance imaging scan showed marked atrophy involving both the cerebellum and pons. Genetic analysis for hereditary ataxia demonstrated the presence of a 37 CAG triplet expansion in the mutated allele (genotype 22/37) in the SCA2 gene, confirming the diagnosis of SCA2.

Conclusion

The present study suggests that a common genetic implication may be shared between these neurologic and non-neurologic signs, and there may be various associations between these heterogeneous manifestations. The clinical spectrum of the SCA2 should be widened, and further data collection is needed to elucidate the relationship among the clinical manifestations.
Evaluation of the Effects of Cigarette Smoking on Testosterone Levels in Adult Men
Authors: Halmenschlager Graziele , Rossetto Simone , Lara Gustavo Müller , Rhoden Ernani Luis
Published: March 2009

Introduction

Cigarette smoking is highly prevalent among men. Many studies have evaluated the effect of cigarette smoking on levels of male reproductive hormones; however, the findings still remain controversial.

Aim

To evaluate the influence of cigarette smoking on serum levels of total testosterone (TT), free testosterone (FT), bioavailable testosterone (BT), sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).

Methods

A total of 255 men (90 smokers and 165 nonsmokers), aged 30 to 70 years, were investigated. Weight and height were obtained and body mass index (BMI) was calculated. Also, waist circumference and hip circumference were measured and waist-to-hip ratio was obtained. Fasting blood samples were drawn for determination of plasmatic glucose levels and serum levels of total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), triglycerides, albumin, prolactin, TT, SHBG, LH, and FSH. The values of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) were determined by Friedwald equation and the values of FT and BT were calculated from TT, SHBG, and albumin. Statistical significance was set at P ≤ 0.05.

Main Outcome Measures

The influence of smoking on levels of TT, FT, and BT.

Results

No significant difference was observed in the mean values of TT (P = 0.580), FT (P = 0.869), BT (P = 0.933), SHBG (P = 0.279), LH (P = 0.573), and FSH (P = 0.693) in the different levels of pack-years when compared to nonsmokers. Moreover, after multivariate logistic regression, no association between increased pack-years of smoking and increased odds ratio for occurrence of low hormones and SHBG levels was observed.

Conclusion

In this study, smokers and nonsmokers had similar mean values of androgens, gonadotropins and SHBG. However, it is necessary to standardize pack-years of smoking in order to elucidate the influence of cigarette smoking on sex hormone levels, as well as to minimize differences among studies and to confirm our results.
Artificial Penile Bodies—From Kama Sutra to Modern Times
Authors: Stankov Oliver , Ivanovski Ognen , Popov Zivko
Published: March 2009

Introduction

Artificial penile nodules are defined as inert objects inserted beneath the skin of the penis to enhance the pleasure of female/male sexual partners during intercourse.

Aim

The aim of this article is to present our experience in dealing with artificial penile bodies. We have also reviewed the pertinent literature focusing on social, motivational, and occupational characteristics of individuals adopting this sexual practice, diagnostic dilemmas and the surgical and health side effects of the implantation of artificial penile nodules.

Methods

We performed a computerized MEDLINE search followed by a manual bibliographic review of cross-references. These reports were analyzed and the important findings summarized.

Results

The phenomenon of inserting self-made artificial nodules beneath the skin of the penis was first described in the Kama Sutra, the classic Indian treatise on love. It is most commonly observed among men from Southeast Asia. The occurrence is much less common in western cultures, but it has been reported to occur in Romania, Germany, and among Fijians and Russian immigrants in Israel. Furthermore, four cases of self-inserted artificial penile bodies from our clinical practice are presented and discussed.

Conclusions

The most common motive associated with foreign artificial bodies on the penis is sexual or erotic in nature and that is to enhance the pleasure of female or male sexual partners during sexual intercourse. Most of the reports involve members of low economic groups like gang members, soldiers, drug addicts, sailors, labor workers, and prisoners. Men suffer no serious side effects after insertion, although fixed beads can cause rupture of condoms. For women, the beads can cause abrasions and a few days of postcoital vaginal pain. Penis implants and inserts and other penis augmentation devices are potentially dangerous to both men and women, and of questionable value in bringing pleasure to either, and should be discouraged.
Assessment of Sexual Orientation Using the Hemodynamic Brain Response to Visual Sexual Stimuli
Authors: Ponseti Jorge , Granert Oliver , Jansen Olav , Wolff Stephan , Mehdorn Hubertus , Bosinski Hartmut , Siebner Hartwig
Published: March 2009

Introduction

The assessment of sexual orientation is of importance to the diagnosis and treatment of sex offenders and paraphilic disorders. Phallometry is considered gold standard in objectifying sexual orientation, yet this measurement has been criticized because of its intrusiveness and limited reliability.

Aim

To evaluate whether the spatial response pattern to sexual stimuli as revealed by a change in blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) signal can be used for individual classification of sexual orientation.

Methods

We used a preexisting functional MRI (fMRI) data set that had been acquired in a nonclinical sample of 12 heterosexual men and 14 homosexual men. During fMRI, participants were briefly exposed to pictures of same-sex and opposite-sex genitals. Data analysis involved four steps: (i) differences in the BOLD response to female and male sexual stimuli were calculated for each subject; (ii) these contrast images were entered into a group analysis to calculate whole-brain difference maps between homosexual and heterosexual participants; (iii) a single expression value was computed for each subject expressing its correspondence to the group result; and (iv) based on these expression values, Fisher’s linear discriminant analysis and the κ-nearest neighbor classification method were used to predict the sexual orientation of each subject.

Mean Outcome Measure

Sensitivity and specificity of the two classification methods in predicting individual sexual orientation.

Results

Both classification methods performed well in predicting individual sexual orientation with a mean accuracy of >85% (Fisher’s linear discriminant analysis: 92% sensitivity, 85% specificity; κ-nearest neighbor classification: 88% sensitivity, 92% specificity).

Conclusion

Despite the small sample size, the functional response patterns of the brain to sexual stimuli contained sufficient information to predict individual sexual orientation with high accuracy. These results suggest that fMRI-based classification methods hold promise for the diagnosis of paraphilic disorders (e.g., pedophilia).
Does Plant Variety Protection Contribute to Crop Productivity? Lessons for Developing Countries from US Wheat Breeding
Authors: Kolady Deepthi Elizabeth , Lesser William
Published: March 2009

The application of intellectual property rights (IP) in developing countries is and remains highly controversial, particularly as regards applications to food/agriculture, and pharmaceuticals, which have direct ramifications for large numbers of peoples. One dimension complicating a reasoned dialogue on the public benefits of IP, particularly when many developing countries are implementing the Agreement on Trade‐Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) as mandated by membership in the World Trade Organization, is a dearth of information on their actual operation and effects. In this study, we address one particular aspect of the limited documentation on the effects of IP systems, the effect of plant variety protection (PVP) on the genetic productivity potential of varieties. Specifically, we examine wheat varieties in Washington State, United States, which are produced by both public and private sector breeders. Results from the study show that implementation of PVP attracted private investment in open pollinated crops such as wheat in the United States and provided greater numbers of varieties of these crops, which are high yielding from both the public and private sectors. These results may provide some insights for policy makers from developing countries on the effects of IP for plants as their TRIPS commitments are being implemented.
A Specialist Patent or Intellectual Property Court for New Zealand?
Authors: Glazebrook Susan
Published: March 2009

Specialization in intellectual property law has, in recent years, become an important issue due to the need for an efficient system for the resolution of intellectual property and patent disputes. Specialist courts or panels within existing courts have been developed in many jurisdictions and the question posed in this article is whether New Zealand should follow suit. This article traverses the differing specialist intellectual property (IP) and patent adjudication systems in the United States, United Kingdom, Australia and Japan to assess what system would best suit New Zealand. The benefits and disadvantages of specialization generally are also discussed. The conclusion is that the time is ripe for some form of specialization in IP matters in New Zealand and that the best model for New Zealand to adopt is one similar to that of the Federal Court of Australia panel system, whereby judges opt into particular panels while still taking on cases within the court's general docket. The article proposes that this specialization in New Zealand should occur in the High Court (trial level) as the real need for specialist knowledge is at the fact‐finding stage. It is argued that a panel system would strike the appropriate balance between developing expertise on the bench, allowing for cross‐fertilization of legal developments, while also preventing stagnation and idiosyncratic interpretations of the law. Some specialization at intermediate appellate court level is also recommended.