bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ethanol preference in C. elegans
Authors: Lee J. , Jee C. , McIntire S. L.
Published: June 2009

Caenorhabditis elegans senses multiple environmental stimuli through sensory systems and rapidly changes its behaviors for survival. With a simple and well‐characterized nervous system, C. elegans is a suitable animal model for studying behavioral plasticity.

Previous studies have shown acute neurodepressive effects of ethanol on multiple behaviors of C. elegans similar to the effect of ethanol on other organisms. Caenorhabditis elegans also develops ethanol tolerance during continuous exposure to ethanol. In mammals, chronic ethanol exposure leads to ethanol tolerance as well as increased ethanol consumption. Ethanol preference is associated with the development of tolerance and may lead to the development of ethanol dependence.

In this study, we show that C. elegans is a useful model organism for studying chronic effects of ethanol, including the development of ethanol preference. We designed a behavioral assay for testing ethanol preference after prolonged ethanol exposure. Despite baseline aversive responses to ethanol, animals show ethanol preference after 4 h of pre‐exposure to ethanol and exhibit significantly enhanced preference for ethanol after a lifetime of ethanol exposure. The cat‐2 and tph‐1 mutant animals have defects in the synthetic enzymes for dopamine and serotonin, respectively. These mutants are deficient in the development of ethanol preference, indicating that dopamine and serotonin are required for this form of behavioral plasticity.
Analysis of the mouse mutant Cloth‐ears shows a role for the voltage‐gated sodium channel Scn8a in peripheral neural hearing loss
Authors: Mackenzie F. E. , Parker A. , Parkinson N. J. , Oliver P. L. , Brooker D. , Underhill P. , Lukashkina V. A. , Lukashkin A. N. , Holmes C. , Brown S. D. M.
Published: June 2009

Deafness is the most common sensory disorder in humans and the aetiology of genetic deafness is complex. Mouse mutants have been crucial in identifying genes involved in hearing. However, many deafness genes remain unidentified. Using N‐ethyl N−nitrosourea (ENU) mutagenesis to generate new mouse models of deafness, we identified a novel semi‐dominant mouse mutant, Cloth‐ears (Clth). Cloth‐ears mice show reduced acoustic startle response and mild hearing loss from ∼30 days old. Auditory‐evoked brainstem response (ABR) and distortion product otoacoustic emission (DPOAE) analyses indicate that the peripheral neural auditory pathway is impaired in Cloth‐ears mice, but that cochlear function is normal. In addition, both Clth/Clth and Clth/+ mice display paroxysmal tremor episodes with behavioural arrest. Clth/Clth mice also show a milder continuous tremor during movement and rest. Longitudinal phenotypic analysis showed that Clth/+ and Clth/Clth mice also have complex defects in behaviour, growth, neurological and motor function. Positional cloning of Cloth‐ears identified a point mutation in the neuronal voltage‐gated sodium channel α‐subunit gene, Scn8a, causing an aspartic acid to valine (D981V) change six amino acids downstream of the sixth transmembrane segment of the second domain (D2S6). Complementation testing with a known Scn8a mouse mutant confirmed that this mutation is responsible for the Cloth‐ears phenotype. Our findings suggest a novel role for Scn8a in peripheral neural hearing loss and paroxysmal motor dysfunction.
Self‐concept and mental health status of ‘stay‐at‐home’ children in rural China
Authors: Zhao Ke‐Fu , Su Hong , He Li , Wu Jia‐Ling , Chen Ming‐Chun , Ye Dong‐Qing
Published: June 2009

Aim:  To describe the self‐concept and mental health status of ‘stay‐at‐home’ children and to explore the differences between stay‐at‐home children and non‐stay‐at‐home children.

Methods:  A cross‐sectional survey was conducted in Changfeng County to collect information on self‐concept and mental health status. Children were classified as ‘stay‐at‐home’ or ‘non‐stay‐at‐home’ for data analysis.

Results:  Stay‐at‐home children accounted for 55.1% of children. The two groups of children differed significantly on the total scores of self‐concept (stay‐at‐home, 52.48 ± 14.29; non‐stay‐at‐home, 55.24 ± 15.10). The mental health status of stay‐at‐home children was poor, with significant difference between them (stay‐at‐home, 41.17 ± 12.25; non‐stay‐at‐home, 40.14 ± 13.11). Using multivariate linear regression analysis, we found that the total P‐H score, gender, low family economic status, stay‐at‐home status and being cared for by an uncle/aunt or an older sibling were independent variables for mental health of the children.

Conclusion:  This study suggests that stay‐at‐home children have a greater risk of mental health problems than their counterparts in rural Anhui province, China. In addition, this study provides useful baseline information on childhood mental health and has identified important risk factors that would be important in planning strategies for prevention of mental health problems for stay‐at‐home children.
Chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis may cause elevated gliadin antibodies
Authors: Brinkert Florian , Sornsakrin Marijke , Krebs‐Schmitt Dorothee , Ganschow Rainer
Published: June 2009

We present a 4‐year‐old boy admitted to the hospital due to the typical symptoms of celiac disease with severe dystrophy, anaemia and elevated gliadin IgG antibodies. Upper endoscopy ruled out celiac disease but showed severe Candida esophagitis. Due to an impaired T‐cell function especially following Candida antigen stimulation in vitro, plus recurrent Candida infections of the skin, the diagnosis of chronic mucocutaneous candidasis (CMC) was made. Under the treatment with fluconazol, trimethoprim/sulfmethoxazole and IVIG, the child improved impressively. Gliadin antibodies declined steadily.

Conclusion:  The common symptoms growth retardation, anaemia and elevated gliadin antibodies are suggestive for celiac disease but very unspecific. The rare immunodeficiency CMC may cause elevated gliadin antibodies.
Characteristics, head shape measurements and developmental delay in 287 consecutive infants attending a plagiocephaly clinic
Authors: Hutchison BL , Stewart Alistair W , Mitchell Edwin A
Published: June 2009

Aim:  To describe the characteristics, developmental status and severity of head shape deformation in infants presenting to a plagiocephaly clinic.

Methods:  Head shape was measured and neck function assessed in 287 consecutive infants presenting to a plagiocephaly outpatient clinic. Information was obtained on demographic and obstetric factors, plagiocephaly history and current positioning strategies. Development was assessed by the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ).

Results:  After clinical examination, craniosynostosis was suspected in seven infants (2%) and a skull computed tomography (CT) scan was performed; five showed suture abnormalities. Fifty‐eight percent of cases had a history of limitation of neck function; this was more likely in plagiocephalic infants than brachycephalic infants. Males, firstborn infants, instrument‐delivered infants, supine sleep position and right‐sided flattening were predominant. One or more delays on the ASQ were seen in 36% of infants.

Conclusion: Physical examination of infants with head shape deformities is essential in order to rule out craniosynostosis. Infants with deformational plagiocephaly frequently have neck muscle dysfunction. We postulate that the higher than expected number of developmental delays may be related to the effects of supine sleep position, low or variable tone, lower activity levels, male gender and neck muscle dysfunction.
Quantitative methods for defining mast‐seeding years across species and studies
Authors: LaMontagne Jalene M. , Boutin Stan
Published: June 2009

Abstract: Although there is a quantitative method that is commonly used for identifying mast‐seeding behaviour of a plant population based on the coefficient of variation (i.e. CV is standard deviation/mean>1), there is no general quantitative method for delineating “mast” as opposed to “non‐mast” years. Mast years are, however, described qualitatively as years when “large”, “unusually large” and “high” seed production occurs. The use of a consistent and generally applicable method for delineating mast years across species and plant populations is important for synthesizing knowledge of the causes and consequences of mast seeding, which could be confounded by using different methods among studies. We examine six quantitative methods for identifying mast years: four methods from the literature and two methods developed here. We use 36 seed production datasets covering a variety of species with ≥10 years of data to test the performance of these six methods. For each method, we quantify the percentage of the datasets to which the method could be successfully applied, the magnitude of the mast year relative to the mean, the frequency of mast years and the occurrence of consecutive mast years. The majority of the methods failed to meet the criteria for a suitable method. The best method used the number of standard deviates (standardized deviate method) of the annual mean seed production from the long‐term mean of the dataset to identify mast‐seeding years. General results from the standardized deviate method include that the occurrence of mast‐seeding years is largely unrelated to plant population CV, but similar across species and data collection methods.
Relining of prosthesis with auto‐polymerizing hard denture reline resins: effect of post‐polymerization treatment on flexural strength
Authors: Takahashi Jessica Mie Ferreira Koyama , Machado Fernanda Miranda , Nuñez Juliana Maria Costa , Consani Rafael Leonardo Xediek , Mesquita Marcelo Ferraz
Published: June 2009

Background:  It has been suggested that microwave irradiation and prosthesis immersion in hot water after its polymerization may improve mechanical and viscoelastic properties of acrylic resins.

Purpose:  This study was proposed to verify the influence of microwave post‐polymerization (PP) treatment over the flexural strength of thermo‐polymerizing acrylic resin specimens (QC‐20) relined or not with two different composition hard chairside auto‐polymerizing reliners [Kooliner (K) and New Truliner (NT)].

Materials and Methods:  For this study, 50 specimens of 64 × 10 × 3.3 mm were polymerized and distributed into five groups. G1 (control) specimens without relining and PP; G2 specimens relined with K, without PP; G3 specimens relined with NT, without PP; G4 specimens relined with K, with PP (microwave irradiation with 650 W for 5 min); G5 specimens relined with NT, with PP. Tests were performed on a universal testing machine Instron 4411 with compression speed of 5 mm/min.

Results:  Specimens of K without PP did not show statistically different results (p < 0.05) when compared with control. However, when submitted to PP these specimens showed a significant increase in flexural strength. Specimens of NT showed the lowest flexural strength of all groups, with or without PP when compared with control and K groups.

Conclusion:  Microwave PP (650 W for 5 min) proved to be an effective method of improving the flexural strength of K relined prosthesis. However, it did not seem to affect NT specimens.
Evaluation of three indices for biofilm accumulation on complete dentures
Authors: Paranhos Helena de Freitas Oliveira , Lovato da Silva Claudia Helena , De Souza Raphael Freitas , Pontes Karina Matthes de Freitas
Published: June 2009

doi:10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2009.00285.x
 
Evaluation of three indices for biofilm accumulation on complete dentures

Objectives:  The objective of this study was to evaluate the accuracy and reproducibility of three complete denture biofilm indices (Prosthesis Hygiene Index; Jeganathan et al. Index; Budtz‐Jørgensen Index) by means of a computerised comparison method.

Background:  Clinical studies into denture hygiene have employed a large number of biofilm indices among their outcome variables. However, the knowledge about the validity of these indices is still scarce.

Materials and methods:  Sixty‐two complete denture wearers were selected. The internal surfaces of the upper complete dentures were stained (5% erythrosine) and photographed. The slides were projected on paper, and the biofilm indices were applied over the photos by means of a scoring method. For the computerised method, the areas (total and biofilm‐covered) were measured by dedicated software (Image Tool). In addition, to compare the results of the computerised method and Prosthetic Hygiene Index, a new scoring scale (including four and five graded) was introduced. For the Jeganathan et al. and Budtz‐Jørgensen indices, the original scales were used. Values for each index were compared with the computerised method by the Friedman test. Their reproducibility was measured by means of weighed κ. Significance for both tests was set at 0.05.

Results:  The indices tested provided similar mean measures but they tended to overestimate biofilm coverage when compared with the computerised method (p < 0.001). Agreement between the Prosthesis Hygiene Index and the computerised method was not significant, regardless of the scale used. Jeghanathan et al. Index showed weak agreement, and consistent results were found for Budtz‐Jorgensen Index (κ = 0.19 and 0.39 respectively).

Conclusion:  Assessment of accuracy for the biofilm indices showed instrument bias that was similar among the tested methods. Weak inter‐instrument reproducibility was found for the indices, except for the Budtz‐Jørgensen Index. This should be the method of choice for clinical studies when more sophisticated approaches are not possible.
Oral mucosal lesions in denture wearers
Authors: Jainkittivong Aree , Aneksuk Vilaiwan , Langlais Robert P.
Published: June 2009

doi:10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2009.00289.x
 
Oral mucosal lesions in denture wearers

Objective:  To determine the prevalence of oral mucosal lesions (OMLs) and denture‐related mucosal lesions (DMLs) in denture wearers and to co‐relate the prevalence with age, gender, type of denture and any systemic conditions.

Materials and methods:  Dental records of 380 denture wearers were retrospectively reviewed for OMLs and DMLs.

Results:  We found 45% of the denture wearers had DMLs and 60.8% had OMLs not related to denture wearing. Although the prevalence of DMLs was higher in complete denture wearers than in partial denture wearers (49% vs. 42.2%), this difference was not significant. The most common DMLs were traumatic ulcer (19.5%) and denture‐induced stomatitis (18.1%). When analysed by type, traumatic ulcer, denture hyperplasia, frictional keratosis and candidiasis were more common in complete denture wearers, whereas denture‐induced stomatitis was more common in partial denture wearers. Frictional keratosis was more common in men than in women. The prevalence of OMLs not related to denture wearing was higher in complete denture wearers than in partial denture wearers, and the most common OML was fissured tongue (27.6%). No association between DMLs and systemic conditions or xerostomic drugs was noted.

Conclusion:  No differences in the prevalence of DMLs in association with denture type were found. The prevalence of OMLs not related to denture wearing was higher in complete denture wearers than in partial denture wearers. This difference was affected by age, and the data were similar to the findings observed in the elderly.
Why do some people lose teeth across their lifespan whereas others retain a functional dentition into very old age?
Authors: Thorstensson Helene , Johansson Boo
Published: June 2009

doi:10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2009.00297.x
 
Why do some people lose teeth across their lifespan whereas others retain a functional dentition into very old age?

Objectives:  To analyse the importance of caries, periodontitis, and medical and psychosocial factors for risk of becoming edentulous across their lifespan and to examine factors critical for retaining functional dentition into very old age.

Methods:  From the longitudinal population‐based Octogenarian Twin study which analysed psychosocial and health variables, 357 individuals aged 82 +  in 1995–1998 were collected. Information about number of teeth, decayed and filled surfaces percentage and periodontal disease experience were drawn from dental records. Reasons for and time of edentulousness were recorded.

Results:  Outcome varied – depending on perspective and factors for losing or retaining teeth. Significant factors for losing teeth varied over the lifespan. Losing teeth early in life was related to lower social class; in middle age, to lower education; and in old age, to poor lifestyle factors and low social class. Caries constituted the main reason for tooth loss (about 55%). This increased substantially in the >80 year age‐group (75%). Maintaining a functional dentition into old age was significantly associated with non‐smoking, more education, being married and good periodontal health.

Conclusion:  It is important to apply life‐span and cohort perspectives to oral health and disease. In our sample of persons born before World War I, caries was the main reason for losing all teeth, with substantially increased prevalence by age. Lifestyle factors were significant for losing and for retaining teeth. Periodontal condition had a significant influence on the likelihood of retaining functional dentition, and also when taking psychosocial variables into account.
Community Engaged Parent Education: Strengthening Civic Engagement Among Parents and Parent Educators
Authors: Doherty William J. , Jacob Jenet , Cutting Beth
Published: June 2009

We introduce Community Engaged Parent Education as a model for civic engagement in parent education. In Community Engaged Parent Education, the parent educator weaves the public dimensions of parenting into the everyday practice of group parent education. It is not a curriculum but a community‐collaborative way of teaching all parenting topics by connecting parents' personal concerns to public issues. We describe the origins, principles, and core practices of this approach. Then we present evaluation data demonstrating that parent educators can learn to implement this approach to parent education, and that parents respond with a variety of forms of civic engagement.
Remarriage Preparation: Usage, Perceived Helpfulness, and Dyadic Adjustment
Authors: Higginbotham Brian J. , Miller Julie J. , Niehuis Sylvia
Published: June 2009

This study provides a contemporary evaluation of 10 different forms of remarriage preparation. Utilizing a subsample of 303 remarried couples from a larger study of newlyweds, we report usage of remarriage preparation and perceived helpfulness as well as differences in dyadic adjustment between respondents who did or did not prepare. Those who participated in some form of preparation generally found it helpful. The majority of those who did not prepare felt it was unnecessary. Differences in dyadic adjustment varied by the form of preparation. Implications for scholars, practitioners, and policy makers include the need for more research‐based materials that counter popular stepfamily myths as well as resources that can be made available to the public through mediums that are trusted and commonly accessed.
Predicting Non‐African American Lesbian and Heterosexual Preadoptive Couples' Openness to Adopting an African American Child
Authors: Goldberg Abbie E. , Smith JuliAnna Z.
Published: June 2009

Despite increases in transracial adoption, African American children remain the least likely to be adopted. No research has examined the factors that predict prospective adopters' willingness to adopt an African American child. This study used multilevel modeling to examine predictors of willingness to adopt an African American child in a sample of 48 lesbian couples and 65 heterosexual couples. Individuals pursuing public adoption were more willing than those pursuing private domestic adoption, and heterosexuals pursuing international adoption were more willing than heterosexuals pursuing private domestic adoption. In addition, younger persons, White persons (rather than non‐African American racial minorities), lesbians, and individuals who perceived their neighborhoods as more diverse were more likely to be willing to adopt an African American child.
A Validation Study of the Youth Development Assessment Device
Authors: Sabatelli Ronald M. , Anderson Stephen A. , Kosutic Iva , Sanderson Jessica , Rubinfeld Stacey
Published: June 2009

This article details the development of the Youth Development Assessment Device (YDAD), an instrument designed to measure a youth's experiences within youth development programs. A total of 1,074 adolescents, between 12 and 18 years of age, participated in the study. Exploratory factor analysis yielded three factors: Supportive Environment, Emotional Safety and Wellbeing, and Involvement and Challenge. Moderately high Cronbach's alphas indicated that scores from the YDAD subscales were internally consistent. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to examine the fit of the model and to test convergent and discriminant validity of YDAD scores. The use of the instrument in process evaluations is described. Implications for future research are discussed.
Characterization of the angiogenic activity of zebrafish ribonucleases
Authors: Monti Daria M. , Yu Wenhao , Pizzo Elio , Shima Kaori , Hu Miaofen G. , Di Malta Chiara , Piccoli Renata , D’Alessio Giuseppe , Hu Guo‐Fu
Published: June 2009

Ribonucleases identified from zebrafish possess angiogenic and bactericidal activities. Zebrafish RNases have three intramolecular disulfide bonds, a characteristic structural feature of angiogenin, different from the typical four disulfide bonds of the other members of the RNase A superfamily. They also have a higher degree of sequence homology to angiogenin than to RNase A. It has been proposed that all RNases evolved from these angiogenin‐like progenitors. In the present study, we characterize, in detail, the function of zebrafish RNases in various steps in the process of angiogenesis. We report that zebrafish RNase‐1, ‐2 and ‐3 bind to the cell surface specifically and are able to compete with human angiogenin. Similar to human angiogenin, all three zebrafish RNases are able to induce phosphorylation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 mitogen‐activated protein kinase. They also undergo nuclear translocation, accumulate in the nucleolus and stimulate rRNA transcription. However, zebrafish RNase‐3 is defective in cleaving rRNA precursor, even though it has been reported to have an open active site and has higher enzymatic activity toward more classic RNase substrates such as yeast tRNA and synthetic oligonucleotides. Taken together with the findings that zebrafish RNase‐3 is less angiogenic than zebrafish RNase‐1 and ‐2 as well as human angiogenin, these results suggest that zebrafish RNase‐1 is the ortholog of human angiogenin and that the ribonucleolytic activity of zebrafish RNases toward the rRNA precursor substrate is functionally important for their angiogenic activity.
Sexual Function After Radical Hysterectomy for Early-Stage Cervical Cancer: Is There a Difference between Laparoscopy and Laparotomy?
Authors: Serati Maurizio , Salvatore Stefano , Uccella Stefano , Laterza Rosa M. , Cromi Antonella , Ghezzi Fabio , Bolis Pierfrancesco
Published: June 2009

Introduction

Surgical treatment for cervical cancer is associated with a high rate of late postoperative complications, and in particular with sexual dysfunction.

Aim

To evaluate sexual function in women who underwent radical hysterectomy (RH), in comparison with a control group of healthy women, using a validated questionnaire (Female Sexual Function Index [FSFI]). Then we tried to evaluate the possible differences between laparoscopic RH and abdominal RH in terms of their impact on sexuality.

Methods

Consecutive sexually active women, who underwent RH for the treatment of early-stage cervical cancer between 2003 and 2007, were enrolled in this study (cases) and divided into two groups, according to the surgical approach. All women were administered the FSFI. The results of this questionnaire were compared between patients who underwent laparoscopic RH (LPS group) vs. women who underwent laparotomic RH (LPT group). The cases of RH were also compared with a control group of healthy women, who were referred to our outpatient clinic for a routine gynecologic evaluation.

Main Outcome Measures

FSFI questionnaire on six domains of female sexuality (desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, pain).

Results

A total of 38 patients were included. We also enrolled 35 women as healthy controls. FSFI score was significantly higher in the healthy controls vs. the cases of RH. In the LPS group, the total score and all the domains of the FSFI were lower in comparison with the healthy controls, whereas three of the six domains (arousal, lubrication, orgasm) and the total score of FSFI were lower in the LPT group if compared with the controls. There were no significant differences between LPS and LPT group.

Conclusions

RH worsens sexual function, regardless of the type of surgical approach. In our experience, laparoscopy did not show any benefit on women’s sexuality over the abdominal surgery for cervical cancer.
The Role of Anxiety in Vaginismus: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Watts Gayle , Nettle Daniel
Published: June 2009

Introduction

Previous research suggests that anxiety may play a large role in the symptoms of vaginismus.

Aim

We aimed to (i) determine the degree of self-reported general anxiety in women with vaginismus; and (ii) establish whether general anxiety is a consequence of the condition or a predisposing factor.

Main Outcome Measures

Participants reported state and trait anxiety, five-factor personality scores, history of anxiety disorders, and their perceptions of their symptoms and history.

Methods

We compared responses of 244 self-identified women with vaginismus with a control group of 101 women using an online questionnaire.

Results

The women with vaginismus were higher in trait anxiety and neuroticism, and lower in extraversion, than the controls. There was also a trend toward a greater prevalence of diagnosed anxiety disorders in the vaginismus group. Levels of state anxiety were high among the women with vaginismus, particularly when they felt unsupported by their partners or pressured to cure the condition.

Conclusion

Levels of general anxiety are elevated among women with vaginismus and the data suggest that anxiety-proneness may be a predisposing factor for the condition. We conclude that although vaginismus is a multidimensional condition, it may have common predisposing factors with anxiety disorders.
Absorption of Testosterone Gel 1% (Testim) from Three Different Application Sites
Authors: Guay Andre T. , Smith Ted M. , Offutt Laura A.
Published: June 2009

Introduction

A popular treatment choice for male hypogonadism is topical testosterone gel. Two proprietary formulations, Testim Gel 1% (Auxilium Pharmaceuticals, Malvern, PA, USA) and AndroGel 1% (Solvay Pharmaceuticals, Marietta, GA, USA), are available. The recommended Testim application site is limited to the arms/shoulders, whereas AndroGel may be applied to the abdomen, shoulders, and upper arms.

Aim

To compare absorption variability when applying Testim to various body sites.

Main Outcome Measures

Total testosterone (TT) and calculated free testosterone (CTfree).

Methods

Hypogonadal men (TT < 300 ng/mL) applied Testim to three distinct anatomical sites for 1 month per site: arms/shoulders (A), chest/abdomen (C), and calves/legs (L). Pretreatment TT and CTfree were compared with end-of-month measurements. Safety was assessed with prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and hemoglobin (Hb) measurements.

Results

Twenty-one hypogonadal men (age 56.9 ± 9.0) naïve to prior testosterone therapy and otherwise in good health participated. Three groups of seven applied Testim in the sequence ACL, CLA, and LAC. Overall TT and CTfree increased significantly over pretreatment levels (P < 0.0001) into the normal range. Application sites differed with regard to TT levels achieved, A > C ≥ L (P = 0.011). No significant sequence effects were observed, however, the ACL group achieved the highest levels. CTfree correlated well with TT in all men (R2 = 0.87) and by application site (R2 = 0.91, 0.85, and 0.86 for A, C, L, respectively). Pre- and post-treatment PSAs were similar; mean pretreatment Hb increased from 14.7 ± 1.47 to 15.5 ± 1.3 g/dL at month 3. Hemoglobin corrected to normal in four subjects with anemia at enrollment (Hb < 13.5 g/dL).

Conclusions

Testim Gel 1% applied to various anatomical sites increases TT and CTfree into the normal range; the best levels are achieved with arms/shoulder application. Flexibility in the application site of Testim is possible if TT or CTfree is monitored to ensure adequate therapeutic levels. Anemia, possibly associated with testosterone deficiency, was an incidental finding in several men and was corrected with topical testosterone replacement.
Prevalence of Low Sexual Desire among Women in Britain: Associated Factors
Authors: Mitchell Kirstin R. , Mercer Catherine H. , Wellings Kaye , Johnson Anne M.
Published: June 2009

Introduction

Lack of sexual interest is a common sexual difficulty. Estimates of the prevalence of lack of sexual interest vary widely, and the evidence with regard to factors associated with lack of interest is not always consistent.

Aims

The aims of this study were to identify factors associated with reporting lack of interest in sex among women, and to explore whether these factors differ according to whether or not help was sought.

Methods

Our data came from the second National Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles, a probability survey of 12,110 men and women aged 16–44 years and resident in Britain between 1999 and 2001 (N = 6,942 women). Computer-assisted personal interviewing was used to collect sociodemographic, behavioral, and attitudinal data.

Main Outcome Measures

(i) Persistent lack of interest in sex (≥6 months or longer in the past year); and (ii) seeking help for persistent lack of interest in sex. We examined data for all women, regardless of their partnership status.

Results

In this study, 10.7% of women reported lacking interest in sex for a period of 6 months or longer, and of these, 27.9% sought help for this difficulty. Reporting persistent low desire per se (outcome 1), and reporting seeking help for low desire (outcome 2) were associated with not enjoying sex, wanting sex more often, not being “competent” at first intercourse, poor communication about sex with partner, frequency of sex, and attitudes according sex low priority. Increasing age, reporting a birth in the last year, having children under 5 in the house, and reporting no sexual partner in the past year were associated with outcome 1 only. Being married and self-perceived health status were associated with outcome 2 only.

Conclusion

Identifying the factors associated with seeking help for low sexual interest is useful in understanding risk markers for problematic sexual interest, and in providing useful avenues for therapeutic discussion.
Association between a common IL10 distal promoter haplotype and IgE production in individuals with atopic dermatitis
Authors: Lacy K. , Archer C. , Wood N. , Bidwell J.
Published: June 2009

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a genetically determined inflammatory skin disease characterized by abnormal cytokine production, including increased production of interleukin 10 (IL10). Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) and haplotypes in the IL10 gene promoter region on chromosome 1q31‐32 have been implicated in several inflammatory diseases, but generally, only SNPs proximal to the transcription start site (TSS) have been investigated. The aim of this study was to identify proximal, distal and combined haplotype sets in the IL10 promoter region and to study their association with clinical phenotypes in atopic dermatitis. SNPs at positions –3575, –2849, –2779, –2763, –1082, –851, –819 and –592 in the IL10 promoter region were genotyped in individuals with atopic dermatitis (n= 47) and nonatopic control subjects (n= 40) using polymerase chain reaction‐based techniques and induced heteroduplex generator (IHG) analysis. Pan‐promoter, TSS‐proximal and TSS‐distal haplotypes were reconstructed using phase analysis. Fifteen haplotypes representing all eight SNPs were identified. Subgrouping identified four 4‐locus and three 3‐locus TSS‐proximal haplotypes; and nine 4‐locus TSS‐distal haplotypes. No difference was found in haplotype or SNP frequencies between the AD and control groups, or between patients with mild or severe disease. However, a common 4‐locus TSS‐distal haplotype (TGAC) was significantly increased in patients with IgE levels over 1000 kIU L−1. This study is the first to analyse the association between haplotype groups in the IL10 promoter region and clinical phenotypes in AD. We have demonstrated a significant association between the TSS‐distal haplotype TGAC, and IgE levels in AD patients. It remains to be shown if there is an association between the TGAC haplotype and IL10 production, which might account for the stimulation of IgE production.
Enhanced crop productivity and compatibility through intercropping of sesame and sunflower varieties
Authors: Olowe V.I.O. , Adeyemo A.Y.
Published: June 2009

Field trials were conducted during 2002 and 2003 to determine the productivity and compatibility of the cropping systems obtained from intercropping varieties of sesame (E8, PBTil and 530‐6‐1) and sunflower (Funtua, Record and Isaanka) in the humid forest–savanna transition zone which is outside the current growing areas. Intercropping did not affect the number of branches per plant, number and weight of capsules per plant, weight of seeds per plant, 1000 seed weight or seed production efficiency (SPE) of all sesame varieties in both years, except SPE in 2003. In both years, intercropping sesame with sunflower varieties significantly reduced grain yield of PBTil and E8. However, 530‐6‐1 produced grain yield similar to the monocrop when intercropped with Record and Funtua in 2002 and 2003, and Record in 2003. In both years, intercropping significantly depressed the grain yield of the three sunflower varieties because of reduction in their head diameter, head weight, number and weight of seeds per head and lower number of plants per unit area relative to their monocrops. E8, 530‐6‐1 and PBTil intercropped with the three sunflower varieties recorded land equivalent ratio values in the range of 1.13–1.37, 1.32–1.46 and 1.22–1.35, respectively. Based on competitive ratio values, E8 demonstrated the greatest ability to compensate for intercrop competition with taller sunflower varieties. It was concluded that growers can successfully cultivate sesame (530‐6‐1 and PBTil) under intercropping with sunflower in the humid forest–savanna transition zone.
Clinical Study of Cinacalcet in Japan
Authors: Akizawa Tadao , Koshikawa Shozo
Published: June 2009

For the approval of cinacalcet hydrochloride, five clinical trials have been performed excluding pharmacokinetic studies for healthy volunteers and hemodialysis patients. An early phase II dose‐finding study was started for regular hemodialysis patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism from a daily dose of 12.5 mg cinacalcet and increasing 25 mg up to 50 mg for 9 weeks. A placebo‐controlled double‐blind three dose–finding study (late phase II study) was then conducted. By this trial, an adequate initial dose of cinacalcet was determined as 25 mg daily, and the placebo‐controlled double‐blind study (phase III study) was started using this initial dose. Two long‐term (1 year) phase III open trials were also conducted during and after these phase II and III studies. The results of two double‐blind trials (phase II and phase III) and safety profiles of cinacalcet in all Japanese clinical trials for approval are summarized in this article.
Parathyroidectomy for Secondary Hyperparathyroidism in the Era of Calcimimetics
Authors: Tominaga Yoshihiro , Matsuoka Susumu , Uno Nobuaki , Sato Tetsuhiko
Published: June 2009

Secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) is one of the major complications experienced by patients with renal failure. Cinacalcet hydrochloride, a calcimimetic, is a new modality for the treatment of SHPT and is able to suppress a high parathyroid hormone level remarkably well. However, for patients with uncontrollable SHPT while on cinacalcet, those with severe SHPT symptoms and those with difficulty being treated with cinacalcet because of side‐effects, parathyroidectomy (PTx) may be indicated as usual. PTx can induce a remarkable improvement in SHPT: postoperative serum phosphorus and calcium levels are easily maintained within their target ranges, quality of life is improved, survival rates are improved and the procedure has high cost‐effectiveness, so for the patients with SHPT refractory to conventional vitamin D or vitamin D analog treatment in whom long‐term survival is expected, PTx might be a more preferable treatment. On the other hand, cinacalcet is the first choice for patients in whom it is difficult to manage SHPT with PTx. Indications are patients (i) for whom surgery under general anesthesia would be highly invasive; (ii) whose parathyroid glands are located in an area making resection difficult; (iii) in whom the affected parathyroid tissues are difficult to identify; (iv) in whom it is difficult to resect all affected parathyroid tissues; and (v) who have undergone repeated surgery or percutaneous ethanol injection therapy and may develop serious complications such as bilateral recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis. Cinacalcet may be a rescuer treatment for these patients.
Role of Cinacalcet in Management of Mineral Bone Disorder in Chronic Kidney Disease (Control of Calcium, Phosphorus and Parathyroid Hormone)
Authors: Tahara Hideki
Published: June 2009

The management of hemodialysis patients with chronic kidney disease–mineral bone disorder includes treatment to control levels of calcium, phosphorus and parathyroid hormone, so as to prevent bone and soft‐tissue complications. Recently, pleiotropic effects of active vitamin D have attracted much attention, and its effect on outcome has also gained recognition. However, administration of active vitamin D may cause hypercalcemia and hyperphosphatemia. Now, the use of a novel class of drugs, cinacalcet hydrochloride, has been proposed as a strategy to reduce parathyroid hormone secretion, while decreasing levels of serum calcium, phosphorus, and calcium × phosphorus products. Among subjects with secondary hyperparathyroidism undergoing hemodialysis, combined therapy with cinacalcet and vitamin D sterols improved achievement of the biochemical targets for chronic kidney disease–mineral bone disorder recommended by the guidelines.
Disc formation and the origin of clumpy galaxies at high redshift
Authors: Agertz Oscar , Teyssier Romain , Moore Ben
Published: June 2009

Observations of high-redshift galaxies have revealed a multitude of large clumpy rapidly star-forming galaxies. Their formation scenario and their link to present-day spirals are still unknown. In this Letter, we perform adaptive mesh refinement simulations of disc formation in a cosmological context that are unrivalled in terms of mass and spatial resolution. We find that the so-called ‘chain-galaxies’ and ‘clump-clusters’ are a natural outcome of early epochs of enhanced gas accretion from cold dense streams as well as tidally and ram-pressured stripped material from minor mergers and satellites. Through interaction with the hot halo gas, this freshly accreted cold gas settles into a large disc-like system, not necessarily aligned to an older stellar component, that undergoes fragmentation and subsequent star formation, forming large clumps in the mass range 107–109 M⊙. Galaxy formation is a complex process at this important epoch when most of the central baryons are being acquired through a range of different mechanisms – we highlight that a rapid mass loading epoch is required to fuel the fragmentation taking place in the massive arms in the outskirts of extended discs, an accretion mode that occurs naturally in the hierarchical assembly process at early epochs.
Old open clusters in the Sagittarius dwarf spheroidal galaxy tidal stream - kith or kin?
Authors: Carraro Giovanni , Bensby Thomas
Published: June 2009

A widely supported formation scenario for the Galactic disc is that it formed inside-out from material accumulated via accretion events. The Sagittarius dwarf spheroidal galaxy (Sgr dSph) is the best example of such an accretion, and its ongoing disruption has resulted in that its stars are being deposited in the Milky Way halo and outer disc. It is therefore appealing to search for possible signatures of the Sgr dSph contribution to the build-up of the Galactic disc. Interestingly, models of the Sgr dSph stream clearly indicate that the trailing tail passes through the outer Galactic disc, at the same Galactocentric distance as some anticentre old open star clusters. We investigate in this Letter the possibility that the two outermost old open clusters, Berkeley 29 and Saurer 1, could have formed inside the Sgr dSph and then left behind in the outer Galactic disc as a result of tidal interaction with the Milky Way. The actual location of these two star clusters, inside the Sgr dSph trailing tail, is compatible with this scenario, and their chemical and kinematical properties, together with our present understanding of the age–metallicity relationship in the Sgr dSph, lend further support to this possible association. Hence, we find it likely that the old open star clusters, Berkeley 29 and Saurer 1, have extragalactic origins.
FOOD SAFETY CRISIS MANAGEMENT PLAN IN HONG KONG
Authors: CHAN S.F. , CHAN ZENOBIA C.Y.
Published: June 2009

Successive food safety crises in Hong Kong not only have trapped the local public in panic, but also raised the alarm in the public health system's crises preparedness for food safety problems. Although the Office of Crisis Management of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the European Crisis Management Academy and the Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed in European countries have been established for coordinating emergency and crisis response activities on food safety issues, there is inadequate emergency and crises management of food safety by the local food authorities. This article aimed to formulate a local food safety crisis management plan which consists of preventive phase, emergency phase and reconstruction phase based on the revised crisis preparedness model. It was suggested that a cross‐boundary liaison with health authorities overseas, a close inter‐ and intradepartmental cooperation in the government, a balance between economic and political issues, considerations on public culture, and an introduction of education for food safety and morality should be the determinants of success in the plan.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Crisis preparedness on food safety seems to be the indispensable proactive measure to safeguard the public health by the local food authorities. This article aimed to discuss the formulation of a local crisis management plan on contingent food safety problems in preventive phase, emergency phase and reconstruction phase based on the revised crisis preparedness model (Elsubbaugh et al. 2004). This food safety crisis management plan not only can safeguard the public health but also regain the confidence on food safety from the local public and stakeholders. Although further improvement can be made, the proposed plan is worthwhile because no similar planning for food safety crisis management has been found in the local food authorities. It also provides a stepping stone for the future development of food safety crisis management to the local policy makers in the public health sector.
Bounded rationality of identity thieves: Using offender‐based research to inform policy*
Authors: Copes Heith , Vieraitis Lynne M.
Published: June 2009

Research Summary

Data for this study were collected in semistructured interviews with 59 individuals serving time in federal prisons for identity theft. We explore how offenders' experiences and life circumstances affected their subjective assessments of risks and rewards and thus facilitated the decision to engage in identity theft. Our findings suggest that offenders perceive identity theft as an easy, rewarding, and relatively risk‐free way to fund their chosen lifestyles.

Policy Implications

The findings suggest that several situational crime‐prevention measures may be effective at curbing identity theft. Crime‐prevention programs that are geared toward removing excuses and advertising consequences may be effective in deterring potential offenders. We also recommend that rehabilitation programs for convicted identity thieves be cognitive‐based interventions aimed at changing the way offenders think about their crimes.
Short‐ versus long‐term effects of Ohio's switch to more structured sentencing on extralegal disparities in prison sentences in an urban court*
Authors: Wooldredge John
Published: June 2009

Research Summary

The impact of Ohio's presumptive guidelines on sentencing disparities was examined for one of the state's largest jurisdictions to determine whether the switch to more structured sentencing in 1996 had any enduring effects. Sentencing patterns were examined both before and shortly after the 1996 reform, as well as 9 years later. Findings revealed weaker race and marital status effects on imprisonment under guidelines versus stronger age effects, no changes in disparities based on a defendant's sex and means of support, and (virtually) no changes in the magnitude of legally relevant effects.

Policy Implications

Ohio's guidelines are more flexible relative to other guideline schemes, possibly accounting for the general stability in effects across regimes. Ohio has since transitioned to voluntary guidelines, which raised concerns that the change will yield higher levels of sentencing disparities. Findings suggest that the transition may coincide with no changes in legal effects, yet with greater disparities based on a defendant's race and marital status.
The impact of after‐school programs on the routine activities of middle‐school students: Results from a randomized, controlled trial*
Authors: Cross Amanda Brown , Gottfredson Denise C. , Wilson Denise M. , Rorie Melissa , Connell Nadine
Published: June 2009

Research Summary

Unsupervised after‐school time for adolescents is a concern for parents and policymakers alike. Evidence linking unsupervised adolescent socializing to problem behavior outcomes heightens this concern among criminologists. Routine activities theory suggests that, when youth peer groups congregate away from adult authority, both opportunity for and motivation to engage in deviant acts increase. After‐school programs are a possible solution to unsupervised teen socializing during afternoon hours and are much in demand. However, empirical research has yet to test the relationship between the availability of after‐school programs and youth routine activities. This study presents evidence from a multisite, randomized, controlled trial of an after‐school program for middle‐school students in an urban school district.

Policy Implications

Youth in the treatment group engaged in less unsupervised socializing after school than youth in the control group but not as much less as would be expected if the after‐school program was providing consistent supervision to youth who would otherwise be unsupervised. Additional analyses examined why the influence of the after‐school program was not more pronounced. We found that, although program attendance was related to decreases in unsupervised socializing, the program did not attract many delinquency‐prone youths who were unsupervised, which suggests that the students most in need of the program did not benefit. Furthermore, data obtained from a mid‐year activity survey revealed that youth in the study were highly engaged in a variety of after‐school activities. The addition of the after‐school program into the mixture of available activities had little effect on the frequency with which students participated in organized activities after school.