bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research Design in European Studies: The Case of Europeanization*
Authors: EXADAKTYLOS THEOFANIS , RADAELLI CLAUDIO M.
Published: March 2009

In this article, we contribute to the debate on research design and causal analysis in European integration studies by considering the sub‐field of Europeanization. First, we examine the awareness of research design issues in the literature on Europeanization through a review of the debate on causality, concept formation and methods. Second, we analyse how much of the discussion of the trade‐offs in causal analysis in mainstream political science has percolated into Europeanization studies. We therefore construct a sample of the Europeanization literature, comparing it to a control group of highly cited articles on European integration. This enables us to control if some patterns are specific to the Europeanization literature or reflect a more general trend in European integration. We then look at trade‐offs in the Europeanization sample and in the control group. Our findings indicate that awareness of research design is still low. Europeanization articles differ from the control group in the focus on mechanisms (rather than variables) and the qualitative aspects of time in politics. Complex notions of causality prevail in Europeanization but not in the control group and the cause‐of‐effects approach is preferred to effects‐of‐causes in the control group but not in Europeanization – in both cases, however, the difference is slight. We conclude by explaining differences and similarities and make proposals for future research.
Population density and the evolution of male aggression
Authors: Knell R. J.
Published: March 2009

In some cases male animals engage in aggressive contests for access to females, in others they adopt more passive strategies and invest in traits that assist them in detecting females or in competing with rivals in other ways, such as sperm competition. One possible factor determining the fitness of these different strategies is population density. Theoretically, aggressive tactics should be found at intermediate population densities. At low densities males that invest in traits related to searching for mates could be favoured, whereas at the highest densities males that fight over females might pay excessive costs for this behaviour because of the number of rival males that they will encounter. Current empirical evidence is mostly consistent with this scheme: in some cases it seems that traits that are associated with locating mates are favoured at low densities, with aggression related traits favoured at higher densities, and in other cases aggression is selected but as density increases less aggressive strategies become more common. There remain substantial differences between species, however, and I discuss how variation in mating system, in the costs of aggression and in the nature of sperm competition, plus ecological differences between species, can change the relationship between population density and the fitness consequences of aggressive and passive behavioural strategies.
Pervasive developmental disorders in individuals with cerebral palsy
Authors: KILINCASLAN AYSE , MUKADDES NAHIT MOTAVALLI
Published: March 2009

The aim of the present study was to describe the prevalence and associated factors of pervasive developmental disorders (PDD), including autistic disorder and PDD not otherwise specified (NOS), in a clinical sample of 126 children and adolescents (75 males, 51 females; age range 4–18y, mean 8y 8mo, SD 3y 8mo) with tetraplegic, hemiplegic, diplegic, dyskinetic, or mixed types of cerebral palsy (CP); 28% could not crawl or walk even with support, 29% could move with support, and 43% walked independently. Participants were examined for PDD in two stages. In the first stage, probable participants were determined by direct observation, Autism Behavior Checklist score, and medical reports. In the second stage, those with ‘probable’ symptoms underwent psychiatric examination and their autistic symptoms were scored on the Childhood Autism Rating Scale. The final diagnosis of autistic disorder or PDD‐NOS was given according to DSM‐IV criteria. Fourteen (11%) and five (4%) of the participants met the criteria for autistic disorder and PDD‐NOS respectively. Children with CP and PDD differed from those without PDD in terms of type of CP (p=0.02), presence of epilepsy (p<0.001), intellectual level (p<0.001), and level of speech (p<0.001). PDD was more common in children with tetraplegic, mixed, and hemiplegic CP, and in children with epilepsy, learning disability,*and low level of speech. The findings corroborate the notion that CP is a complex disorder, often associated with additional impairments. PDD is not rare in CP and should be considered in patients with comorbid conditions such as epilepsy, learning disability, and language delay and in the presence of tetraplegic, mixed, and hemiplegic CP types.
Top of the basilar artery embolic stroke and neonatal myoclonus
Authors: GOVAERT PAUL , DUDINK JEROEN , VISSER GERHARD , BREUKHOVEN PETRA , VANHATALO SAMPSA , LEQUIN MAARTEN
Published: March 2009

Cerebellar stroke has been virtually unreported in the living newborn infant. A term newborn male weighing 3380g at birth suffered myoclonic seizures within 24 hours of birth by spontaneous vaginal delivery. Apgar scores were 3 and 4 at 1 and 5 minutes. Myoclonus persisted for 9 days, responding poorly to step‐up anticonvulsant treatment including lidocaine, midazolam, and clonazepam. Imaging documented arterial ischaemic stroke within the left posterior cerebral and both superior cerebellar arteries, compatible with top of the basilar artery stroke. There was no electrographic correlate for the seizures. Disturbed oscillation within the dentato‐rubro‐olivary circuitry was the likely mechanism. The probable cause was embolism from an in‐utero‐onset inferior caval vein thrombosis. At 22 months the child was sitting unsupported. Scores on the Bayley Scales of Infant Development II were equivalent to those of a 12‐month‐year‐old. He showed ataxic motor behaviour. Embolism can cause neonatal top of the basilar artery stroke, which may present with myoclonus due to cerebellar injury.
Longitudinal study of motor performance and its relation to motor capacity in children with cerebral palsy
Authors: VAN ECK MIRJAM , DALLMEIJER ANNET J , VOORMAN JEANINE M , BECHER JULES G
Published: March 2009

Aim  The aim of this study was to describe the course of motor performance and analyse its relationship with motor capacity over a period of 3 years in 104 children (66 males, 38 females; 43% of those initially invited) with cerebral palsy (CP) aged 9, 11, and 13 years at the start of the study. Forty‐one had hemiplegia, 42 diplegia, 21 tetraplegia; 83 spastic CP, 17 dyskinetic/mixed, and four ataxic CP. Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels were I, n=49; II, n=15; III, n=10; IV, n=12; and V, n=18.

Method  Motor performance (what a child does do) was determined using the gross motor skills subscale of the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales and motor capacity [what a child can do] was determined using the Gross Motor Function Measure‐66 (GMFM‐66). The measurements were performed annually over a period of 3 years.

Results  The course of motor performance in mildly affected children (GMFCS level I) was more favorable than in more severely affected children. An increase in motor capacity was significantly related to an improvement in motor performance over the 3 years.

Interpretation  Training motor capacity in children with CP seems to be important for improving motor performance. Interventions should also focus on environmental adaptations and improving mobility equipment. A limitation of this study was that the instruments used did not contain the same items on capacity and performance level.
The preadult origins of postmaterialism: A longitudinal sibling study
Authors: KROH MARTIN
Published: March 2009

Using a research design that traces siblings' preferences for postmaterialist values in Germany over two decades, this article provides new evidence on the origins of value preferences. Focusing on Inglehart's thesis of value change, the combined socialisation and scarcity hypothesis is tested against the social learning hypothesis – a prominent rival account of preadult value preference formation. Sibling estimates show that the shared preadult environment does indeed exert lasting effects on preferences for postmaterialist policies. In addition to the weak effect of the shared experience of socioeconomic scarcity, it is found that the intergenerational transmission of postmaterialism, disregarded by Inglehart's original thesis, plays a significant role in value preference acquisition. The implications of individual‐level findings for forecasts of aggregate‐level trends in value change are discussed.
Perinatal outcome in fetuses with extremely large nuchal translucency measurement
Authors: SCOTT Fergus , EVANS Jackie , McLENNAN Andrew
Published: March 2009

Background: Studies have suggested that an entirely normal outcome is likely when the nuchal translucency (NT) measurement is very large and the karyotype, morphology and echocardiography scans are normal. Recently this has been questioned as it is based on very small numbers.

Aim: Assess the outcome of pregnancies with an NT measurement of 6.5 mm or greater.

Methods: Audit of a large first trimester screening program.

Results: Over the ten years to 2006, 76 813 patients underwent first trimester screening, with 120 having an extremely large NT. Thirty‐one cases had normal karyotypes, of which there were four sets of twins that demised. Six cases miscarried and ten were terminated, some with morphological abnormalities. Eight cases were still alive for the morphology scan, with the only abnormality being mild pyelectasis in one case. At birth, three cases were normal and another three cases had a good outcome. Two cases had coarctation of the aorta and a good outcome. One case had Noonan's syndrome, another had cerebral palsy and the case with pyelectasis had hydronephrosis, dilated ureters and some contractures.

Conclusions: When the karyotype and morphology scan are normal, the outcome is often good in spite of an extremely large NT. However, even a subtle ultrasound anomaly can indicate a genetic syndrome and echocardiography cannot exclude mild cardiac abnormalities.
Pregnancy outcome in the setting of extremely low first trimester PAPP‐A levels
Authors: SCOTT Fergus , COATES Anne , McLENNAN Andrew
Published: March 2009

Background: Serum pregnancy‐associated plasma protein‐A (PAPP‐A) is part of first trimester Down syndrome screening. Low levels have been associated with adverse outcome as well as chromosomal abnormality.

Aims: To assess the incidence of adverse outcome when PAPP‐A levels are at or below 0.2 multiples of the median (MoM).

Methods: Data on consecutive patients attending a first trimester screening program were collected. Those with PAPP‐A levels ≤ 0.2 MoM were divided into three groups: ≤ 0.1 MoM; 0.11–0.15 MoM; and 0.16–0.2 MoM.

Results: Screening 44 535 patients resulted in 197 with PAPP‐A levels ≤ 0.2 MoM. The incidence of karyotypic abnormality increased with decreasing PAPP‐A levels. In the absence of chromosome abnormality, pregnancy outcomes were defined as ‘normal’ in at least 30% and ‘good’ in at least 60%, with both percentages increasing as the PAPP‐A level rose. The PAPP‐A levels were significantly lower in the group with a poor outcome. The incidence of prematurity was similar in the three groups, but higher than the statewide average, while the incidence of extreme prematurity appeared to be related to reducing PAPP‐A levels. The incidence of growth restriction in the three groups was similar, but was still double the incidence in the normal population.

Conclusion: If the PAPP‐A level is ≤ 0.2 MoM and the karyotype is normal, there is an increased risk of adverse outcome. Even with PAPP‐A below 0.1 MoM, a good outcome can be expected in 60% of cases. Careful morphological assessment is suggested and later monitoring of fetal growth and well‐being.
Extensive Tinea in a Patient With Severe Combined Immunodeficiency
Authors: JIMÉNEZ‐PUYA RAFAEL , VÁZQUEZ‐BAYO C. , RODRIGUEZ‐BUJALDÓN A. , GARCÍA F. GÓMEZ , MORENO‐GIMÉNEZ JOSÉ CARLOS
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  Severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) is a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by a defect of T and B cell immunity with a genetic origin in most cases. Although the X‐linked recessive form is most common (60–70%), there are autosomal recessive forms (20%) and spontaneous mutations. While SCID may present with many nosocomial infections, dermatophyte infections are not common. We reported a case of SCID which was associated with a widespread skin infection with Trichophyton mentagrophytes.
Hippocampal Navβ3 expression in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Van Gassen Koen L. I. , De Wit Marina , Van Kempen Marian , Saskia van der Hel W. , Van Rijen Peter C. , Jackson Antony P. , Lindhout Dick , De Graan Pierre N. E.
Published: March 2009

Voltage‐dependent sodium channels consist of a pore‐forming alpha‐subunit and regulatory beta‐subunits. Alterations in these channels have been implicated in temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) and several genetic epilepsy syndromes. Recently we identified Navβ3 as a TLE‐regulated gene. Here we performed a detailed analysis of the hippocampal expression of Navβ3 in TLE patients with hippocampal sclerosis (HS) and without HS (non‐HS) and compared expression with autopsy controls (ACs). Immunoblot analysis showed that Navβ3 levels were dramatically reduced in the hippocampus, but not in the cortex of non‐HS patients when compared to HS patients. This was confirmed by immunohistochemistry showing reduced Navβ3 expression in all principal neurons of the hippocampus proper. Sequence analysis revealed no Navβ3 mutations. The functional consequences of the reduced Navβ3 expression in non‐HS patients are unknown. Altered Navβ3 expression might influence microcircuitry in the hippocampus, affecting excitability and contributing to epileptogenesis in non‐HS patients. Further experiments are required to elucidate these functional possibilities.
Correlation Between Symptoms and Function in Older Adults with Comorbidity
Authors: Whitson Heather E. , Sanders Linda L. , Pieper Carl F. , Morey Miriam C. , Oddone Eugene Z. , Gold Deborah T. , Cohen Harvey Jay
Published: March 2009

OBJECTIVES: To describe the relationship between symptom scores and mobility function measures, assess whether symptom scores and disease scores are similarly associated with mobility function, and identify clusters of symptoms that are most strongly associated with functional status in older adults.

DESIGN: Secondary analysis of cross‐sectional data from three cohorts.

SETTING: Academic medical center.

PARTICIPANTS: One hundred ninety‐five community‐dwelling subjects with poor flexibility or cardiorespiratory fitness (fitness cohort), 211 female retirement community residents with vertebral fractures (VF cohort), and 61 subjects with Parkinson's disease (PD cohort).

MEASUREMENTS: Twenty‐item self‐reported symptom scale, 17‐item self‐reported disease scale, Medical Outcomes Study 36‐item Short Form Survey (SF‐36) Physical Functioning Scale, 5‐item Nagi Disability scale, 10‐m walk time, supine to stand time.

RESULTS: Symptom scores correlated with mobility function measures (Spearman correlation coefficients ranged from 0.222 to 0.509) at least as strongly as, if not more strongly than, did disease scores. Symptom scores remained associated with functional outcomes after controlling for disease score and demographic variables. Adding symptom scores to models that contained disease scores significantly increased the association with functional outcomes. In the fitness cohort, muscle weakness was the most explanatory single symptom, associated with an average decrease of 17.8 points on the Physical Functioning Scale. A model that included only muscle weakness, pain, and shortness of breath accounted for 21.2% of the variability in the Physical Functioning Score.

CONCLUSION: Symptoms represent useful indicators of disability burden in older adults and are promising targets for interventions to improve function in medically complex patients.
Dynamics of Membrane Trafficking Downstream of B and T Cell Receptor Engagement: Impact on Immune Synapses
Authors: Yuseff Maria‐Isabel , Lankar Danielle , Lennon‐Duménil Ana‐Maria
Published: March 2009

The onset of an adaptive immune response requires the activation of T and B lymphocytes by antigen‐presenting cells, through a specialized form of intercellular communication, known as the immunological synapse (IS). In B lymphocytes the IS promotes efficient recognition and acquisition of membrane‐bound Ags, while in T cells, it modulates the T cell response upon exposure to peptide‐major histocompatibility complexes. In this review, we highlight the similarities that determine B and T cell activation, focusing on immune receptor downstream signaling events that lead to synapse formation. We stress the notion that polarization of T and B lymphocytes characterized by global changes in cytoskeleton and membrane trafficking modulates synapse structure and function, thus determining lymphocyte effector functions and fate.
Goat milk acceptance and promotion methods in Japan: The questionnaire survey to middle class households
Authors: OZAWA Takeyuki , MUKUDA Kumiko , FUJITA Masaru , NISHITANI Jiro
Published: March 2009

A consumer questionnaire conducted with the purpose of ascertaining the acceptability of goat milk and related products in Japan was carried out on 345 guarantees of Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University in December 2006. 275 effective responses (79%) representing middle class urban households were returned. The results revealed that (1) 30% of respondents have experienced drinking goat milk and only 10% are aware of the current retail situation of goat milk and related products; (2) over 70% of goat milk drinkers raised goats by hand at some point in their past and their first experience drinking goat milk was in infancy; (3) those with experience in drinking goat milk expressed a vague evaluation and minimal understanding of drinking goat milk; (4) respondents who were inexperienced goat milk drinkers expressed a strong desire to taste and a weak desire to purchase goat milk; (5) respondents expressed low recognition regarding retailed goat milk products, but those who had already purchased goat milk products expressed a high evaluation and strong desire to purchase these products again; and (6) recognition of goat milk characteristics is low, but those with high recognition also rate goat milk highly. Goats are perceived as being ‘mild and familiar.’ It is necessary for those who manage goat husbandry to present goat milk and related product tasting opportunities to consumers. The key point is to make the functional differences between cow and goat milk clear and present the advantages of goat milk at the fore of this promotion. Goat milk should not be promoted merely as a drink that is similar to cow milk, but must be positioned as a functional drink or health food in order to expand the Japanese goat milk market.
Too Many Males in China: The Causes and the Consequences
Authors: Hesketh Thérèse
Published: March 2009

We expect that, roughly, as many boys will be born into the world as girls. However, in some places, social pressures combined with modern medicine seriously distort the ratio of the sexes. In China, there are a million excess male births each year. Thérèse Hesketh looks at what this will mean for the generation that lacks women.
Safety in Numbers
Authors: Gwynne Steven
Published: March 2009

How do we behave in emergencies? If fire breaks out in a building do we act as thinking individuals, or as chaotic panicking automata? Safety officers have to know—and Steven Gwynne says that they lack the data.
The Flavour of Whisky
Authors: Wishart David
Published: March 2009

Lagavulin, Talisker, Ardbeg—the names roll off the tongue and the liquid slides gloriously down the throat. Single malt Scotch whiskies count among the pleasures of life. But how can you classify their complex and various flavours? David Wishart savours a smoky, medicinal, peat-filled Islay and comes up with a scheme.
Big Brother and State Control—A New Career for Statisticians?
Authors: Goddard Ivor
Published: March 2009

Big Brother is watching you—and he will be recruiting statisticians to help him. Dictators mine digital information to control their citizens. Even in Britain the laws to allow the biggest—and potentially most oppressive—super-database of all are before Parliament now. Ivor Goddard sounds a warning—and looks over his shoulder with trepidation.
The Waiting Game: How Long is Long Enough?
Authors: Jones Byron
Published: March 2009

The time it takes to recruit patients into a clinical trial has a major impact on whether a drug development programme completes on time. Here Byron Jones explains how simple statistical models can be very useful in predicting the time to complete recruitment.
Quality of Life: Its Application to Persons With Intellectual Disabilities and Their Families—Introduction and Overview
Authors: Brown Roy I. , Schalock Robert L. , Brown Ivan
Published: March 2009

The authors provide an overview of quality of life (QoL) conceptualization in the field of intellectual disabilities (ID), provide background information, and set an organizing framework for presenting concepts and concrete ideas for applying QoL. This framework is useful for three broad categories of application in the field of ID that form the application of QoL to individuals, groups of individuals, and to families. QoL thus can be used as a sensitizing notion that gives a sense of reference and guidance from the individual's perspective, focusing on the person and the individual's environment and provides a framework for conceptualizing, measuring, and applying the QoL construct. The applications also frame evaluation strategies for QoL research. The authors conclude that there is a need to identify relevant QoL evidence from the literature in a proactive way, and to ensure that it is methodologically sound, provides both quantitative and qualitative data, represents inter‐ and intra‐individual variability, and illustrates changes over both the lifespan and across cultural settings.
Molecular design of a nylon‐6 byproduct‐degrading enzyme from a carboxylesterase with a β‐lactamase fold
Authors: Kawashima Yasuyuki , Ohki Taku , Shibata Naoki , Higuchi Yoshiki , Wakitani Yoshiaki , Matsuura Yusuke , Nakata Yusuke , Takeo Masahiro , Kato Dai‐ichiro , Negoro Seiji
Published: March 2009

A carboxylesterase with a β‐lactamase fold from Arthrobacter possesses a low level of hydrolytic activity (0.023 μmol·min−1·mg−1) when acting on a 6‐aminohexanoate linear dimer byproduct of the nylon‐6 industry (Ald). G181D/H266N/D370Y triple mutations in the parental esterase increased the Ald‐hydrolytic activity 160‐fold. Kinetic studies showed that the triple mutant possesses higher affinity for the substrate Ald (Km = 2.0 mm) than the wild‐type Ald hydrolase from Arthrobacter (Km = 21 mm). In addition, the kcat/Km of the mutant (1.58 s−1·mm−1) was superior to that of the wild‐type enzyme (0.43 s−1·mm−1), demonstrating that the mutant efficiently converts the unnatural amide compounds even at low substrate concentrations, and potentially possesses an advantage for biotechnological applications. X‐ray crystallographic analyses of the G181D/H266N/D370Y enzyme and the inactive S112A‐mutant–Ald complex revealed that Ald binding induces rotation of Tyr370/His375, movement of the loop region (N167–V177), and flip‐flop of Tyr170, resulting in the transition from open to closed forms. From the comparison of the three‐dimensional structures of various mutant enzymes and site‐directed mutagenesis at positions 266 and 370, we now conclude that Asn266 makes suitable contacts with Ald and improves the electrostatic environment at the N‐terminal region of Ald cooperatively with Asp181, and that Tyr370 stabilizes Ald binding by hydrogen‐bonding/hydrophobic interactions at the C‐terminal region of Ald.
IN-1130, a Novel Transforming Growth Factor-β Type I Receptor Kinase (Activin Receptor-like Kinase 5) Inhibitor, Promotes Regression of Fibrotic Plaque and Corrects Penile Curvature in a Rat Model of Peyronie’s Disease
Authors: Ryu Ji-Kan , Piao Shuguang , Shin Hwa-Yean , Choi Min Ji , Zhang Lu Wei , Jin Hai-Rong , Kim Woo Jean , Han Jee-Young , Hong Soon Sun , Park Seok Hee , Lee Sang-Jin , Kim In-Hoo , Lee Chung Ryul , Kim Dae-Kee , Mamura Mizuko , Kim Seong-Jin , Suh Jun-Kyu
Published: March 2009

Introduction

Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) has been known to play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of Peyronie’s disease (PD).

Aim

The aim of this paper was to investigate the therapeutic effect of IN-1130, a novel small molecule inhibitor of activin receptor-like kinase (ALK)5, a type I receptor of TGF-β, in an animal model of PD.

Methods

PD was induced in rats through repeated injections of adenovirus expressing TGF-β1 (days 0, 3, and 6; 1 × 1010 particles/0.1 mL, respectively) into the tunica albuginea. The rats were divided into five groups (N = 10 per group): group 1, age-matched controls without treatment; group 2, age-matched controls receiving repeated injections of IN-1130 (days 30 and 37; 5 mg/kg in 0.1 mL saline, respectively); group 3, PD rats without treatment; group 4, PD rats receiving repeated injections of saline (days 30 and 37; 0.1 mL, respectively); group 5, PD rats receiving repeated injections of IN-1130 (days 30 and 37; 5 mg/kg in 0.1 mL saline, respectively) into the lesion.

Main Outcome Measures

Penile curvature was evaluated by use of an artificial erection test at day 45, and the penis was then harvested for histologic examination. Collagen in the plaque was quantitatively assessed by hydroxyproline determination.

Results

IN-1130 induced significant regression of fibrotic plaque through reduced infiltration of inflammatory cells, reduced transnuclear expression of phospho-Smad2/phospho-Smad3, reduced hydroxyproline content, and reduced cartilage content and restoration of elastin fibers in the fibrotic plaque of PD rats, which was accompanied by the correction of penile curvature.

Conclusion

Antagonizing TGF-β signaling through the use of ALK5 inhibitors may represent an exciting new therapeutic strategy for the future treatment of PD.
Association of Glycemic Control with Risk of Erectile Dysfunction in Men with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Lu Chih-Chen , Jiann Bang-Ping , Sun Chun-Chin , Lam Hing-Chung , Chu Chih-Hsun , Lee Jenn-Kuen
Published: March 2009

Introduction

Improvement in glycemic control is likely to reduce the risk of diabetic complication, while its effect on erectile dysfunction (ED) remains unclear.

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the association of glycemic control with risk of ED in type 2 diabetics.

Methods

A self-administered questionnaire containing Sexual Health Inventory for Men was obtained from 792 subjects with type 2 diabetes at our institution. Clinical data were obtained through chart review.

Main Outcome Measures

The contribution of glycemic control assessed by glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level as well as age, duration of diabetes, hypertension (HT), dyslipidemia, and cigarette smoking to risk of ED was evaluated.

Results

Of 792 subjects, 83.6% reported having ED and 43.2% had severe ED. HbA1c level (%) adjusted for age and duration of diabetes was significantly associated with ED (OR 1.12, 95% CI: 1.01–1.25). None of HT, dyslipidemia, and cigarette smoking was a significant risk factor for ED after adjusted for age and duration of diabetes. HbA1c level, age, and duration of diabetes were significant independent risk factors for ED among the younger group (age ≤ 60 years), and only age and duration of diabetes were independent risk factors among the older group (age > 60 years). For the risk of severe ED, compared with no and mild to moderate ED, HbA1c level, duration of diabetes, and HT were independent risk factors among the younger group, and only age was an independent factor among the older group.

Conclusions

Better glycemic control probably would reduce the prevalence of ED and its severity among the younger men with type 2 diabetes. For the older group, aging was the major determinant for ED risk among this population with type 2 diabetes.
Effect of Estrogen Deprivation on the Expression of Aquaporins and Nitric Oxide Synthases in Rat Vagina
Authors: Kim Sun-Ouck , Lee Hyun-Suk , Ahn Kyuyoun , Park Kwangsung
Published: March 2009

Introduction

The expression of aquaporin (AQP) water channels in rat vagina was recently reported.

Aim

The purposes of this study were to investigate the effect of 17β-estradiol on the expression of the AQP-1 and AQP-2 water channels and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) isoforms in rat vagina.

Methods

Female Sprague-Dawley rats (230–240 g, N = 90) were divided into three groups: control (N = 30), bilateral ovariectomy (N = 30), and bilateral ovariectomy, followed by subcutaneous injections of 17β-estradiol (50 µg/kg/day, N = 30). After 4 weeks, genital hemodynamics and vaginal secretions were measured after pelvic nerve stimulation, and the animals were then killed. The expression and cellular localization of AQP-1, AQP-2, endothelial NOS (e-NOS), and neuronal NOS (n-NOS) were determined in each group by immunohistochemistry and Western blot.

Main Outcome Measures

The expression and cellular localization of AQPs and NOS isoforms after estrogen deprivation.

Results

Estimated vaginal secretions (mg, mean ± standard error) were significantly lower in the ovariectomized group (2.9 ± 0.62) than in the control group (5.7 ± 1.25) and returned to the control value in the group after treatment with 17β-estradiol (6.5 ± 1.22) (P < 0.05). Both AQP-1 and e-NOS immunoreactivities were localized in the capillaries and venules of the lamina propria of the vagina, and n-NOS was expressed in the nerve fibers of the subepithelial lamina propria. The expression of AQP-2 was localized solely in the superficial layer of the vaginal epithelium. The protein expressions of AQP-2, e-NOS, and n-NOS were significantly lower after ovariectomy and were restored to the control level after 17β-estradiol treatment. However, there was no significant change in AQP-1 expression.

Conclusions

Decreased vaginal secretion after estrogen deprivation may be partly due to functional changes in both AQPs and NOS isoforms in the vagina. The potential role of AQPs in water transport in the vagina might differ according to the type of AQP.
Male and Female Sexual Function After Surgical Repair of Female Organ Prolapse
Authors: Kuhn Annette , Brunnmayr Gudrun , Stadlmayr Werner , Kuhn Peter , Mueller Michael D.
Published: March 2009

Introduction

Few data are available referring to male and female sexual function after prolapse repair of symptomatic pelvic organ.

Aim

Primary aim of this study is to determine the male and female sexual function before and after surgery for pelvic organ prolapse.

Main Outcome Measures

We used the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaire for female patients and for their male partners the Brief Male Sexual Inventory (BMSI) as measurement of sexual function.

Methods

We included sexually active heterosexual couples that were referred to the Department of Urogynaecology because of symptomatic cystocele, rectocele or vault descent. For cystoceles, anterior repair was performed, for rectoceles posterior repair, and for vault descent sacrospinous ligament fixation. FSFI and BMSI questionnaires were distributed before and after pelvic organ surgery and 4 months after. Female clinical examination assessing the degree of prolapse was performed before and 6 weeks after surgery.

Results

A full data set of 70 female questionnaires and 64 male questionnaires could be evaluated. Two cases of female de novo dyspareunia occurred. In women, FSFI scores improved significantly in the domains desire, arousal, lubrication, overall satisfaction, and particularly pain. Orgasm remained unchanged. In men, interest, sexual drive, and overall satisfaction improved significantly. Erection, ejaculatory function, and orgasm remained unchanged. Despite remaining unchanged, erection, strength of erection, ejaculation, and orgasm were not considered problems anymore compared to preoperative BMSI scores.

Conclusion

Surgery for pelvic organ prolapse improves male and female sexual function in some domains but not in all.
The Effect of the Mode of Delivery on the Quality of Life, Sexual Function, and Sexual Satisfaction in Primiparous Women and Their Husbands
Authors: Safarinejad Mohammad Reza , Kolahi Ali Asgar , Hosseini Ladan
Published: March 2009

This article has been retracted: please see Elsevier Policy on Article Withdrawal (https://www.elsevier.com/about/our-business/policies/article-withdrawal).

This article has been retracted at the request of the Editor-in-Chief. Following the retraction of Dr. Safarinej ad’s work by other journals, The Journal of Sexual Medicine has undertaken an extensive re-review of all papers Dr. Safarinejad published with the journal. Following an intensive re-evaluation and close scrutiny of the manuscripts, our expert reviewers raised multiple concerning questions about the methodology, results, and statistical interpretation as presented in this article. Dr. Safarinejad was contacted to provide his original data and offer explanations to address the concerns expressed by the reviewers. Dr Safarinejad chose not to respond. The co-authors of the article have also been contacted and did not respond either. Consequently, we can no longer verify the results or methods as presented and therefore retract the article.
Simplified Molecular Input Line Entry System‐Based Optimal Descriptors: Quantitative Structure–Activity Relationship Modeling Mutagenicity of Nitrated Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons
Authors: Toropov Andrey A. , Toropova Alla P. , Benfenati Emilio
Published: March 2009

We developed a new QSAR model, based on the optimal descriptors, calculated with simplified molecular input line entry system. These descriptors are correlated with mutagenic potential for a training set and correlated with this end‐point for a test set. Statistical characteristics of the model are n = 28, r 2 = 0.902, q 2 = 0.892, s = 0.554, F = 240 (training set) and n = 20, r 2 = 0.853, q 2 = 0.823, s = 0.702, F = 105 (test set).
Reflections on Lack of a Patent System throughout China's Long History
Authors: Liu Deming
Published: March 2009

The accepted wisdom is that the patent system originated in Europe and that China did not have such an indigenous system throughout its history. The reasons for the lack of such a system are not often explored among legal scholars although, for decades, historians have debated on a related matter of why the Industrial Revolution did not start in China after its centuries' lead in science and technology. It appears that legal scholars generally accept that Confucian philosophy precluded an intellectual property system in China including a patent system. The article aims to dispute this belief by showing that socioeconomic and geographical factors underscored the main reasons for the lack of a patent system in ancient China.
Cognitive Engineering for Geographic Information Science
Authors: Raubal Martin
Published: March 2009

Geographic information science provides the foundation for the development of geospatial tools and services that support people in their spatio‐temporal decision‐making. In order to offer useful and useable solutions, principles of human spatial cognition regarding the representation and processing of spatial and temporal aspects of phenomena must be considered in the design of these tools. Suchcognitively engineeredgeospatial services aim for cognitive adequacy and therefore facilitation of user interaction. This article argues for the necessity of cognitive engineering methods in the field of geographic information science by explicating their theoretical foundation and demonstrating practical geospatial applications. It further provides a framework for classifying cognitive user parameters, which can be employed for the personalization of geospatial services.
Hyporheic Exchange in Mountain Rivers II: Effects of Channel Morphology on Mechanics, Scales, and Rates of Exchange
Authors: Buffington John M. , Tonina Daniele
Published: March 2009

We propose that the mechanisms driving hyporheic exchange vary systematically with different channel morphologies and associated fluvial processes that occur in mountain basins, providing a framework for examining physical controls on hyporheic environments and their spatial variation across the landscape. Furthermore, the spatial distribution of hyporheic environments within mountain catchments represents a nested hierarchy of process controls. Large‐scale process drivers (geology, climate, fire, and land use) impose a suite of watershed conditions (topography, streamflow, sediment supply, and vegetation) on the fluvial system. Different combinations of imposed watershed conditions result in different reach‐scale channel morphologies (e.g. step‐pool, pool‐riffle, and braided) that, in turn, structure hyporheic processes (e.g. pressure divergence, spatial variation of hydraulic conductivity) and resultant hyporheic environments (scales and rates of hyporheic exchange). Consequently, a holistic view of natural and anthropogenic drivers over a range of spatial and temporal scales is needed for understanding hyporheic ecosystems.
Hyporheic Exchange in Mountain Rivers I: Mechanics and Environmental Effects
Authors: Tonina Daniele , Buffington John M.
Published: March 2009

Hyporheic exchange is the mixing of surface and shallow subsurface water through porous sediment surrounding a river and is driven by spatial and temporal variations in channel characteristics (streambed pressure, bed mobility, alluvial volume and hydraulic conductivity). The significance of hyporheic exchange in linking fluvial geomorphology, groundwater, and riverine habitat for aquatic and terrestrial organisms has emerged in recent decades as an important component of conserving, managing, and restoring riverine ecosystems. Here, we review the causes and environmental effects of hyporheic exchange, and provide a simple mathematical framework for examining the mechanics of exchange. A companion paper explores the potential effects of channel morphology on exchange processes and the hyporheic environments that may result in mountain basins (Buffington and Tonina 2009).
Theorizing Borders in a ‘Borderless World’: Globalization, Territory and Identity
Authors: Diener Alexander C. , Hagen Joshua
Published: March 2009

Although declarations or predictions of a borderless world have become somewhat ubiquitous over the last twenty years, state borders remain one of the most basic and visible features of the international system. While it is true that a range of issues, like environmental change, migration, or international trade, highlight the growing interaction and interdependence between different places around the world, borders continue to play a central role in shaping, dividing, and uniting the world's societies, economies, and ecosystems. Reflecting their significance for scholars across the social sciences, a growing body of multidisciplinary research has investigated the continuing power of borders in our supposedly borderless world. This article examines some of the main lines of inquiry, research, and theory in this emerging field of border studies.
Effects of Phosphates and Salt in Ground Raw and Cooked Farmed Cod (Gadus morhua) Muscle Studied by the Water Holding Capacity (WHC), and Supported by 31P‐NMR Measurements
Authors: Johnsen S.O. , Jørgensen K.B. , Birkeland S. , Skipnes D. , Skåra T.
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT:  A model system consisting of ground farmed cod muscle (80%, w/w) and added brine (20%, w/w) with different content and combinations of salt (0% and 3% in brine) and phosphorus compounds (mono‐, di‐, tri‐ and hexametaphosphates; 0% and 3% in brine) was used to simulate industrial brining of muscle foods. Individual phosphorus component concentrations and breakdown as function of time (0, 23 h) were analyzed using 31P‐NMR spectroscopy. The effects of salt and phosphate on water holding capacity (WHC) were measured at similar sampling times, and interrelations between phosphorous components determined by NMR and WHC were established. Addition of salt led to a significant increase (+18%) in WHC, and the combined effect of salt and phosphates was even more pronounced (+29%). The positive effect of triphosphate and salt on WHC was also seen after cooking (+36% in raw and +41% in cooked cod muscle, relative to control), although NMR analysis showed a rapid breakdown of di‐ and triphosphates.
Modeling the Growth Characteristics of Listeria monocytogenes and Native Microflora in Smoked Salmon
Authors: Hwang C.‐A. , Sheen S.
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT:  Smoked salmon contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes has been implicated in foodborne listeriosis. The objectives of this study were to model the growth characteristics and examine the growth relationship of L. monocytogenes and native microflora in smoked salmon. Smoked salmon samples with a native microflora count of 2.9 log10 CFU/g were inoculated with a 6‐strain mixture of L. monocytogenes to levels of log10 1.6 and log10 2.8 CFU/g, and stored at 4, 8, 12, and 16 °C. Growth characteristics (lag phase duration [LPD, h], growth rate [GR, log10 CFU/h], and maximum population density [MPD, log10 CFU/g]) of L. monocytogenes and native microflora were determined. At 4 to 16 °C, the LPD, GR, and MPD were 254 to 35 h, 0.0109 to 0.0538 log10 CFU/h, and 4.9 to 6.9 log10 CFU/g for L. monocytogenes, respectively, and were 257 to 29 h, 0.0102 to 0.0565 log10 CFU/h, and 8.5 to 8.8 log10 CFU/g for native microflora. The growth characteristics of L. monocytogenes or the native microflora were not significantly different (P > 0.05), regardless the initial levels of L. monocytogenes. Mathematical equations were developed to describe the LPD, GR, and MPD of L. monocytogenes and native microflora as a function of storage temperature. The growth relationship between L. monocytogenes and native microflora was modeled and showed that the LPD and GR of L. monocytogenes were similar to those of native microflora. These models can be used to estimate the growth characteristics of L. monocytogenes in smoked salmon, and thereby enhance the microbiological safety of the product.
Influence of Cooking Methods on Antioxidant Activity of Vegetables
Authors: Jiménez‐Monreal A. M. , García‐Diz L. , Martínez‐Tomé M. , Mariscal M. , Murcia M. A.
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT:  The influence of home cooking methods (boiling, microwaving, pressure‐cooking, griddling, frying, and baking) on the antioxidant activity of vegetables has been evaluated in 20 vegetables, using different antioxidant activity assays (lipoperoxyl and hydroxyl radicals scavenging and TEAC). Artichoke was the only vegetable that kept its very high scavenging‐lipoperoxyl radical capacity in all the cooking methods. The highest losses of LOO· scavenging capacity were observed in cauliflower after boiling and microwaving, pea after boiling, and zucchini after boiling and frying. Beetroot, green bean, and garlic kept their antioxidant activity after most cooking treatments. Swiss chard and pepper lost OH· scavenging capacity in all the processes. Celery increased its antioxidant capacity in all the cooking methods, except boiling when it lost 14%. Analysis of the ABTS radical scavenging capacity of the different vegetables showed that the highest losses occurred in garlic with all the methods, except microwaving. Among the vegetables that increased their TEAC values were green bean, celery, and carrot after all cooking methods (except green bean after boiling). These 3 types of vegetables showed a low ABTS radical scavenging capacity. ccording to the method of analysis chosen, griddling, microwave cooking, and baking alternately produce the lowest losses, while pressure‐cooking and boiling lead to the greatest losses; frying occupies an intermediate position. In short, water is not the cook's best friend when it comes to preparing vegetables.
Determination of Anthocyanins, Total Phenolic Content, and Antioxidant Activity in Andes Berry (Rubus glaucus Benth)
Authors: Garzón G.A. , Riedl K.M. , Schwartz S.J.
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT:  Anthocyanins, total phenolic content, ascorbic acid content, and the antioxidant activity were determined in extracts of Andes berry fruit (Rubus glaucus Benth). Anthocyanis (ACNs) were isolated and characterized by means of high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with photodiode array detection and electro spray ionization/mass spectrometry (PDA‐ESI/MS/MS) analysis. The anthocyanin (ACN) content was 45 mg/100 g FW. The isolated anthocyanins were characterized as cyanidin 3‐sambubioside, cyanidin 3‐glucoside, cyanidin 3‐xylorutinoside, cyanidin 3‐rutinoside, pelargonidin 3‐glucoside, and pelargonidin 3‐rutinoside. The ascorbic acid content was 10.1 mg/100 g FW. The total phenolic content as determined by the Folin–Ciocalteau method was 294 mg GAE/100 g FW while the antioxidant activity as measured by ABTS·+ radical scavenging capacity and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) was 2.01 and 4.50 mmol TE/100 g FW or 8.22 mmoles ferric iron reduced/100 g FW, respectively. The high phenolic content and antioxidant capacity of Andes berry suggest that this fruit could be a rich source of natural pigments, nutraceuticals, and natural antioxidants.
Antimicrobial Efficiency of Essential Oil and Freeze–Thaw Treatments against Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Salmonella enterica Ser. Enteritidis in Strawberry Juice
Authors: Duan J. , Zhao Y.
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT:  This study investigated the antimicrobial efficiency of 3 essential oils (EOs), lemongrass, cinnamon leaf, and basil, and freeze–thaw treatment, alone or in combination, against Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Salmonella enterica Ser. Enteritidis inoculated in strawberry juice stored at 7 °C. EO of lemongrass or cinnamon leaf at 0.1 to 2 μL/mL and freezing at −23 °C for 24 or 48 h followed by thawing at 7 °C for 4 h all showed significant antimicrobial activities (P < 0.05) against E. coli O157:H7 and S. Enteritidis in strawberry juice. The antimicrobial activity increased with increasing EO concentration and storage time, but extending freezing time from 24 to 48 h did not enhance the antimicrobial activity of freeze–thaw treatment (P > 0.05). EO of lemongrass or cinnamon leaf at 0.1 μL/mL and freeze–thaw treatment alone obtained a 5 log10 reduction in the population of S. Enteritidis, while EOs at 0.1 to 0.3 μL/mL or freeze–thaw alone could not achieve a satisfactory protection against E. coli O157:H7 in strawberry juice. Combined EO and freeze–thaw treatment enhanced the overall antimicrobial effect against E. coli O157:H7, with adding EO before the freeze–thaw treatment showed a faster decontamination rate than when added EO after the freeze–thaw. EOs of lemongrass and cinnamon leaf at 0.1 or 0.3 μL/mL followed by the freeze–thawing resulted in a 5 log10 reduction in E. coli O157:H7 on the 5th and 2nd day of storage, respectively. This study suggested that combined EO and freeze–thaw treatment may be a suitable and inexpensive method to eliminate microorganisms that can be a hazard for the consumers of unpasteurized berry juices.