bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stress‐coping strategies of patients with gender identity disorder
Authors: Matsumoto Yosuke , Sato Toshiki , Ohnishi Masaru , Kishimoto Yuki , Terada Seishi , Kuroda Shigetoshi
Published: September 2009

Aims:  Previous research has not addressed gender differences in coping strategies among patients with gender identity disorder (GID). Nor has the relationship of coping strategies to other demographic characteristics ever been clarified in GID. In this study, we tried to clarify the relationship between stress‐coping strategies and demographic characteristics among patients with GID.

Methods:  The coping strategies of 344 patients with GID [227 female‐to‐male (FTM) and 117 male‐to‐female (MTF)] were assessed using the Japanese version of the Ways of Coping Questionnaires, Lazarus Stress‐coping Inventory.

Results:  Comparison of the stress‐coping inventory between MTF and FTM GID patients revealed that FTM GID patients were significantly more reliant on positive reappraisal strategies in stressful situations than MTF GID patients (P = 0.007).

Conclusions:  The difference in the usage of positive reappraisal strategies between MTF and FTM type GID patients was not explained by other demographic characteristics, and we suppose that the gender difference in GID patients might influence the usage of positive reappraisal strategies. The ratio of FTM GID patients might be higher at our center because MTF GID patients can obtain vaginoplasty easily, whereas phalloplasty surgery for FTM GID patients is performed at only a few centers, including our clinic, in Japan. As a result, more FTM GID patients come to our clinic with a clear intention to undergo sexual rearrangement surgery, which might influence the gender difference in using positive reappraisal.
THE STOCK MARKET, HOUSING AND CONSUMER SPENDING: A SURVEY OF THE EVIDENCE ON WEALTH EFFECTS
Authors: Paiella Monica
Published: September 2009

Abstract This paper examines the time‐series and micro‐econometric evidence on the relationship between stock and house prices and consumer spending. The time‐series studies distinguish between short‐run and long‐run links between consumption, income and wealth. They allow us to identify which variables adjust to restore the long‐run equilibrium in the case of a shock, and to determine the time taken by the adjustment process. The micro‐econometric literature improves our understanding of the link between wealth and expenditure and distinguishes among the alternative hypotheses – of direct wealth effect, common causality and collateral channel – that have been proposed to explain this relationship. The relationship between wealth and consumer spending appears to be strong, but there is some disagreement as to its size and nature. Furthermore, there appear to be some important differences across countries, which should be allowed for by policy makers when appraising the policy implications of a change in asset prices.
DOES TEACHER QUALITY AFFECT STUDENT PERFORMANCE? EVIDENCE FROM AN ITALIAN UNIVERSITY
Authors: De Paola Maria
Published: September 2009

In this paper, we analyse whether the characteristics of university teaching staff matter with regard to students' performance and interest in the discipline. We use data on about 1000 students enrolled on the first‐level degree course in business and economics at a medium‐sized Italian university. Thanks to the random assignment of students to different teaching classes during their first year, we are able to analyse the effect that teachers with different characteristics, in terms of experience and research productivity, produce both on students' performance, measured in terms of the grades obtained at subsequent examinations, and on courses chosen. Our results suggest that teacher quality has statistically significant effects on students' grades in subsequent courses. These effects are also robust after controlling for unobserved individual characteristics. On the other hand, we find less clear evidence when relating teacher quality to student involvement with a subject. It emerges that research productivity does not produce a statistically significant effect on the probability of a student undertaking additional courses in a subject, while more experienced teachers have a negative impact. However, also this effect does not become statistically significant when we run separate regressions for different disciplines.
eNVyMyCar: A Multiplayer Car Racing Game for Teaching Computer Graphics
Authors: Ganovelli F. , Corsini M.
Published: September 2009

The development of a computer game is widely used as a way of conveying concepts regarding Computer Science. There are several reasons for this: it stimulates creativity, it provides an immediate sense of achievement (when the code works), it typically covers all the aspects of an introductory course, and it is easy to find ideas just by looking around and finding stimulation from one's environment and from fellow students. In this paper we present eNVyMyCar, a framework for the collaborative/competitive development of a computer game, and report the experience of its use in two Computer Graphics courses held in 2007. We developed a multiplayer car racing game where the student's task is just to implement the rendering of the scene, while all the other aspects, communication and synchronization are implemented in the framework and are transparent to the developer. The innovative feature of our framework is that all on‐line users can see the views produced by their fellow students. This motivates students to improve their work by comparing it with other students and picking up ideas from them. It also gives students an opportunity to show off to their classmates.
Covariate Selection for the Semiparametric Additive Risk Model
Authors: MARTINUSSEN TORBEN , SCHEIKE THOMAS H.
Published: September 2009

Abstract. This paper considers covariate selection for the additive hazards model. This model is particularly simple to study theoretically and its practical implementation has several major advantages to the similar methodology for the proportional hazards model. One complication compared with the proportional model is, however, that there is no simple likelihood to work with. We here study a least squares criterion with desirable properties and show how this criterion can be interpreted as a prediction error. Given this criterion, we define ridge and Lasso estimators as well as an adaptive Lasso and study their large sample properties for the situation where the number of covariatespis smaller than the number of observations. We also show that the adaptive Lasso has the oracle property. In many practical situations, it is more relevant to tackle the situation with largepcompared with the number of observations. We do this by studying the properties of the so‐called Dantzig selector in the setting of the additive risk model. Specifically, we establish a bound on how close the solution is to a true sparse signal in the case where the number of covariates is large. In a simulation study, we also compare the Dantzig and adaptive Lasso for a moderate to small number of covariates. The methods are applied to a breast cancer data set with gene expression recordings and to the primary biliary cirrhosis clinical data.
The Feeling Theory of Emotion and the Object‐Directed Emotions
Authors: Whiting Demian
Published: September 2009

Abstract: The ‘feeling theory of emotion’ holds that emotions are to be identified with feelings. An objection commonly made to that theory of emotion has it that emotions cannot be feelings only, as emotions have intentional objects. Jack does not just feel fear, but he feels fear‐of‐something. To explain this property of emotion we will have to ascribe to emotion a representational structure, and feelings do not have the sought after representational structure. In this paper I seek to defend the feeling theory of emotion against the challenge from the object‐directed emotions.
Kant's Conception of Inner Value
Authors: Sensen Oliver
Published: September 2009

Abstract: This article addresses a foundational issue in Kant's moral philosophy, the question of the relation of the Categorical Imperative to value. There is an important movement in current Kant scholarship that argues that there is a value underlying the Categorical Imperative. However, some scholars have raised doubts as to whether Kant has a conception of value that could ground the Categorical Imperative. In this paper I seek to add to these doubts by arguing, first, that value would have to be of a particular kind in order to be the foundation of Kant's moral philosophy. Second, I argue that Kant does not have such a conception of value, and that his arguments rule out that value could ground his moral philosophy. I then outline an alternative reading of how Kant uses ‘inner value’. My conclusion will be that Kant does not derive the Categorical Imperative from an underlying value. While some of his passages could also be read as if value were foundational for Kant, a close look at these passages and his arguments point away from this conclusion.
Differential actions of ethanol and trichloroethanol at sites in the M3 and M4 domains of the NMDA receptor GluN2A (NR2A) subunit
Authors: Salous AK , Ren H , Lamb KA , Hu X‐Q , Lipsky RH , Peoples RW
Published: September 2009

Background and purpose: Alcohol produces its behavioural effects in part due to inhibition ofN‐methyl‐d‐aspartate (NMDA) receptors in the CNS. Previous studies have identified amino acid residues in membrane‐associated domains 3 (M3) and 4 (M4) of the NMDA receptor that influence ethanol sensitivity. In addition, in other alcohol‐sensitive ion channels, sedative‐hypnotic agents have in some cases been shown to act at sites distinct from the sites of ethanol action. In this study, we compared the influence of mutations at these sites on sensitivity to ethanol and trichloroethanol, a sedative‐hypnotic agent that is a structural analogue of ethanol.

Experimental approach: We constructed panels of mutants at ethanol‐sensitive positions in the GluN2A (NR2A) NMDA receptor subunit and transiently expressed these mutants in human embryonic kidney 293 cells. We used whole‐cell patch‐clamp recording to assess the actions of ethanol and trichloroethanol in these mutant NMDA receptors.

Key results: Ethanol sensitivity of mutants at GluN2A(Ala825) was not correlated with any physicochemical measures tested. Trichloroethanol sensitivity was altered in two of three ethanol‐insensitive mutant GluN2A subunits: GluN2A(Phe637Trp) in M3 and GluN2A(Ala825Trp) in M4, but not GluN2A(Met823Trp). Trichloroethanol sensitivity decreased with increasing molecular volume at Phe637 or increasing hydrophobicity at Ala825 and was correlated with ethanol sensitivity at both sites.

Conclusions and implications: Evidence obtained to date is consistent with a role of GluN2A(Ala825) as a modulatory site for ethanol and trichloroethanol sensitivity, but not as a binding site. Trichloroethanol appears to inhibit the NMDA receptor in a manner similar, but not identical to, that of ethanol.
Resizing a River: A Downscaled, Seasonal Flow Regime Promotes Riparian Restoration
Authors: Hall Alexis A. , Rood Stewart B. , Higgins Paul S.
Published: September 2009

While riverine organisms are adapted to the natural flow regime, it is impractical to fully restore natural flows along most regulated rivers. We propose an alternative with the delivery of downscaled flow regimes that provide the seasonal patterns that are essential for aquatic and riparian ecosystems. The Bridge River in British Columbia provided a novel case study as a downscaled flow regime commenced in 2000 along a reach that had generally experienced no flow for the prior half‐century. The experimental flow delivered a mean discharge of about 3 m3/s, versus the pre‐dam mean of 100 m3/s, with a seasonal pattern that mimicked the natural snowmelt‐dominated pattern. To assess the environmental response, we investigated black cottonwoods, Populus trichocarpa, the dominant riparian trees, in the pre‐flow versus post‐flow intervals, using tree ring interpretation for growth analyses and age determination. Sparse mature trees established prior to the 1948 damming did not show significant growth changes in the pre‐ versus post‐flow intervals. In contrast, younger trees that established closer to the river in the decade prior to 2000 displayed significant growth increases by 2002, and juveniles established after 2000 demonstrated faster initial growth than juveniles established before 2000. Further, bands of cottonwood saplings resulted from seedling recruitment along the new river fringe, particularly in 2002, 2003, and 2004, years with gradual flow recession. These responses demonstrate that a downscaled, seasonal flow regime provided environmental benefit, thereby restoring some river function and resulting in a resized river flanked by narrow and reproducing cottonwood bands.
Initial Soil Development Under Pioneer Plant Species in Metal Mine Waste Deposits
Authors: Arocena Joselito M. , van Mourik Jan M. , Schilder Madeleine L. M. , Faz Cano Angel
Published: September 2009

Mine waste materials are often inhospitable to plants due to extreme pH, high salinity, very low organic matter, elevated metal contents, and poor physical conditions. We investigated initial soil development in three study areas under different pioneer plant species in degraded landscapes left behind by past mining activities in southeast Spain. Soil pH, electrical conductivity, cation exchange capacity, total carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur were determined, as well as micromorphology, using 12 soil thin sections prepared from materials collected under vegetated and unvegetated sites. Soils are alkaline or highly alkaline, whereas other parameters substantially vary between sites (e.g., C:N = 9−149). pH of waste materials ranges from 6.2 to 7.9 and higher than soil pH, whereas electrical conductivity and gypsum contents were lower in soils than waste materials except for the Portman Bay site. Mine waste materials are dominated by platy/laminated microstructure, whereas incipient soils regardless of overlying pioneer species have granular structure of varying degrees of development. Roots of pioneer species break‐up the dense laminae of waste deposits and initiate preferential water flow through root channels. These channels encourage biological activities, and hence enhanced the accumulation of soil organic matter. The variables we investigated are useful to assess the formation of soils in inhospitable environments in mined areas. For instance, mechanical alteration of laminated waste deposits can be initiated by plowing to encourage preferential flow paths, hence soil development. Amendment of mine wastes with organic materials can stimulate biological activities to hasten the formation of granular soil microstructure common in productive ecosystems.
Evaluating Tolerance of Herbicide and Transplantation by Cane (a Native Bamboo) for Canebrake Restoration
Authors: Klaus Nathan A. , Klaus Joyce M.
Published: September 2009

Canebrakes (bamboo grasslands dominated by Arundinaria spp.) were once a widespread ecosystem across the Southeastern United States, and many species of wildlife depended upon them. Early settlers replaced this system with subsistence agriculture and today few canebrakes remain. The restoration of canebrakes is critical to the recovery of several wildlife species; however, restoration is complicated because (1) seed is uncommon and often predated, (2) competition from hardwood species, including the exotic Chinese privet (Ligustrum sinesnse), often prevent cane establishment, and (3) cane depends on disturbance regimes that have been disrupted in the Southeast. We investigated the tolerance of Switch cane (Arundinaria tecta) to four commonly used herbicides that are effective at controlling privet and other hardwoods: hexazinone (Velpar‐L), glyphosate (Razor Pro), triclopyr (Garlon 3A), and imazapyr (Chopper). We also investigated the possibility of transplanting cane culms, and the factors affecting successful transplant. Cane tolerated hexazinone and triclopyr but was damaged or killed by glyphosate and imazapyr. Although many measures of weather and cane condition were not predictors of transplant success, the Keetch–Byram drought index was a strong predictor, and is available through most state forestry offices. Selective herbicides and deliberately timed transplantation may be important canebrake restoration tools.
Changes in Demographic Processes Over Long Time Scales Reveal the Challenge of Restoring an Endangered Plant
Authors: Albrecht Matthew A. , McCue Kimberlie A.
Published: September 2009

The creation of new populations in conservation reserves plays an increasingly important role in reducing the extinction risk of endangered plants. We experimentally introduced seedlings of the federally endangered forb Astragalus bibullatus into protected limestone cedar glades in central Tennessee and tested how source population, transplant season, and glade site affected the demographic performance of transplants over 7 years. Plants derived from seed from three source populations survived at similar rates at introduced sites, but exhibited different germination rates in greenhouse cultivation trials. Even though glade sites were seemingly similar in abiotic conditions and in close proximity (<400 m), survival rates varied widely among sites. Plants introduced in the spring never produced seed and were nearly four times more likely to die than plants introduced in the fall. Within 3 years of outplanting, 20% of plants introduced in the fall produced seed, yet sexual reproduction ceased after the third year and only one seedling recruit was observed after 7 years of monitoring. This resulted in small subpopulations that were not self‐sustaining probably due to demographic stochasticity. In addition to highlighting the need for long‐term monitoring of introduced populations to draw appropriate conclusions, our study emphasizes the importance of properly timing outplantings with the appropriate seasons and having multiple introduction sites as a hedge against environmental variability. However, overcoming seed limitation during the early stages of population growth and determining “safe sites” for seedling recruitment remains a central challenge in introducing endemic plants into seemingly suitable but unoccupied habitat.
May Rare Metallophytes Benefit from Disturbed Soils Following Mining Activity? The Case of the Crepidorhopalon tenuis in Katanga (D. R. Congo)
Authors: Faucon Michel‐Pierre , Parmentier Ingrid , Colinet Gilles , Mahy Grégory , Ngongo Luhembwe Michel , Meerts Pierre
Published: September 2009

Cuprophytes are plants that mostly occur on Cu‐rich soil. In South Central Africa, these species are threatened by intensive mining exploitation destroying their habitats. Crepidorhopalon tenuis (Scrophulariaceae) is a tiny annual cuprophyte endemic to the Zambesian center of endemism and is particularly abundant in the Lubumbashi area. We investigate here the ecological niche of C. tenuis through the analyses of its abundance and distribution in relation to soil factors, plant community composition, and anthropogenic perturbations. Soil and vegetation data were collected in seven sites (five metalliferous and two nonmetalliferous). The current study shows that C. tenuis has its ecological optimum on copper‐rich soil and can be referred to as an elective pseudometallophyte. This species is rare in primary steppic savanna on natural metalliferous soil. Its frequency and abundance peak in pioneer communities on bare soil. In particular, the species showed a surprising ecological plasticity as it was able to benefit from anthropogenic disturbance and to colonize the large areas of bare, contaminated soil left over by mining activities. Our results strongly suggest that C. tenuis was a very rare species in natural metalliferous communities, restricted to patchy areas of open soil in steppic savanna. Recent anthropogenic habitats may have conservation value for some rare metallophytes with colonizing traits and low competitive ability.
Initial Experience with the High‐Density Mesh Ablation Catheter for Pulmonary Vein Isolation
Authors: DE GREEF YVES , STOCKMAN DIRK , DUYTSCHAEVER MATTIAS , VANDEKERCKHOVE YVES , TAVERNIER RENE
Published: September 2009

Background: Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is usually performed with multiple point‐by‐point radiofrequency ablation with a second multielectrode circular mapping catheter to validate isolation. We evaluated a 30‐mm high‐density mesh electrode (HDMA) for mapping and PVI in patients with recurrent atrial fibrillation (AF).

Methods: In 13 patients (validation group) up to three pulmonary veins (PVs) were targeted with the HDMA. A circular mapping catheter was used to validate PVI. PVI was completed with a CARTO‐guided approach (Biosense Webster, Diamond Bar, CA, USA) followed by a voltage remap. In 11 patients (feasibility group) the HDMA catheter was evaluated as a stand‐alone mapping and ablation tool.

Results: The diagnostic accuracy of the HDMA catheter to evaluate PVI was 100%. The encircled low‐voltage area (<0.15 mV) after HDMA‐guided PVI was smaller compared to CARTO‐guided PVI. In the feasibility group 76% of the PVs could be isolated. Complete isolation of all PVs was feasible in five patients (45%) with a mean procedure and fluoroscopy time of respectively 180 ± 39 minutes and 40 ± 14 minutes. After 1 year 64% of the patients were free of symptomatic AF.

Conclusions: The HDMA electrode is a reliable mapping tool to validate PVI. The majority of PVs can be isolated, but on a patient basis touch‐up ablations are necessary in more than 50% of the cases. Therefore, modifications in catheter design are required. The small area of voltage abatement points to an ostial left atrium‐pulmonary vein disconnection. Initial clinical results in a small number of patients are promising.
The Amplatzer Duct Occluder II: A New Device for Percutaneous Ductus Arteriosus Closure
Authors: SALIBA ZAKHIA , EL‐RASSI ISSAM , ABI‐WARDE MARIE‐THÉRÈSE , CHEHAB GHASSAN , DAOU LINDA , KHATER DANIELE , GERBAKA BERNARD , JEBARA VICTOR
Published: September 2009

Objective: Study the new Amplatzer Duct Occluder II (ADO II). Limitations were encountered with the preexisting devices in nonconical ducts, large ducts, or in small infants. These include failure, residual shunts, protrusion, migration, and vascular damage.

Methods: Between June 2008 and March 2009, 20 consecutive patients were enrolled. In cases where different devices were applicable, we favored the use of the ADO II to maximize our experience with this device and prove its superiority. No coils were required in these 20 patients.

Results: There were 15 females and 5 males (median age 2 years). ADO II group (n = 16): Immediate complete closure in 75% of the patients, rising to 93.7% at 24 hours. A residual shunt persisted at 3 months in one child. Aortic narrowing from device protrusion was noted in two type E ducts, without any significant gradient, however. ADO I group (n = 4): In two adolescents and in one adult patient, the duct was successfully closed. In a 2‐year‐old patient with a 6.6 mm type B duct, the ADO I totally obstructed the aortic flow and was retrieved before releasing. The child was sent for surgery.

Conclusion: Even though we did not compare the ADO II to other devices, we feel that it has the capacity to substitute most of the coils, and some of the original ADO I indications. Arterial access was sufficient in most patients, but venous delivery is advised in small infants with large or long ducts, to avoid aortic protrusion and residual shunts.
Potentially Lethal Behaviors Associated With Rapid Eye Movement Sleep Behavior Disorder: Review of the Literature and Forensic Implications
Authors: Schenck Carlos H. , Lee Samuel Adams , Bornemann Michel A. Cramer , Mahowald Mark W.
Published: September 2009

Abstract:  Rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder (RBD) is characterized by loss of the muscle atonia of REM sleep, with release of complex and violent behaviors that are often attempted dream‐enactments. This study reviewed the literature on RBD with regard to potentially lethal behavior. A total of 39–41 clinical cases of RBD associated with potentially lethal behaviors to self and/or others were found, involving a child and adults of all age groups, that manifested as choking/headlock (n = 22–24), defenestration/near‐defenestration (n = 7), and diving from bed (n = 10). A total of 80.8% (n = 21) were males; 19.2% (n = 5) were females; mean age was 65.6 ± (SD) 13.8 years (range: 27–81 years, and a child). (Gender/age data were not listed in the remaining cases.) An etiologic association of RBD with a neurologic disorder (or with pharmacotherapy of psychiatric disorders, n = 4) was present in 21–23 patients. Thus, RBD carries well‐documented, potential forensic consequences during RBD episodes that could possibly have been misinterpreted as suicidal or homicidal behavior.
Immunohistochemical techniques to compare primary vs. metastatic mucinous carcinoma of the skin
Authors: Levy Gillian , Finkelstein Alexander , McNiff Jennifer M.
Published: September 2009

Background: Primary and metastatic mucinous carcinomas in skin are histologically indistinguishable. Immunohistochemical panels help differentiate primary and metastatic adenocarcinoma of skin, but data regarding mucinous carcinoma is scant.

Methods: We stained five primary mucinous carcinomas, two mucinous carcinomas metastatic to skin and five primary breast and colon mucinous carcinomas with p63, CD15, CK5/6, CK7, CK20, calponin and D2‐40 to identify patterns that might differentiate primary from metastatic disease. We also searched for myoepithelial cells in all cases.

Results: All cases of primary mucinous carcinoma of the skin were positive for CK7, 40% showed rare cells labeled for p63 and 20% of cases labeled focally for CK5/6. The breast mucinous carcinomas metastatic to the skin were negative for all markers except CK7, although 60% of primary breast carcinomas labeled for p63. Colon mucinous carcinoma labeled only for CK20.

Conclusions: In a small subset of mucinous carcinomas (20% in this series), positive labeling for CK5/6 indicated primary cutaneous tumor. Staining with p63 also favored primary over metastatic disease. Myoepithelial cell layers were not consistently identified to enable the identification of primary disease.

Levy G, Finkelstein A, McNiff JM. Immunohistochemical techniques to compare primary vs. metastatic mucinous carcinoma of the skin
Family Income and Parenting: The Role of Parental Depression and Social Support
Authors: Lee Chih‐Yuan S. , Anderson Jared R. , Horowitz Jason L. , August Gerald J.
Published: September 2009

This study examined the relations among family income, social support, parental depression, and parenting among 290 predominantly rural families with children at risk for disruptive or socially withdrawn behaviors. Structural equation modeling and multiple regression were used, and the results showed that low family income was related to high levels of parental depression, which in turn were associated with disruptive parenting. The findings also showed that social support mediated the adverse relationship between low family income and parental depression. Social support was directly related to positive parenting and indirectly related to parent‐child relational frustration via parental depression. Social support also moderated the indirect relationship between low family income and parenting. Implications for prevention intervention are discussed.
Is there more to aging than mitochondrial DNA and reactive oxygen species?
Authors: Alexeyev Mikhail F.
Published: September 2009

With the aging of the population, we are seeing a global increase in the prevalence of age‐related disorders, especially in developed countries. Chronic diseases disproportionately affect the older segment of the population, contributing to disability, a diminished quality of life and an increase in healthcare costs. Increased life expectancy reflects the success of contemporary medicine, which must now respond to the challenges created by this achievement, including the growing burden of chronic illnesses, injuries and disabilities. A well‐developed theoretical framework is required to understand the molecular basis of aging. Such a framework is a prerequisite for the development of clinical interventions that will constitute an efficient response to the challenge of age‐related health issues. This review critically analyzes the experimental evidence that supports and refutes the Free Radical/Mitochondrial Theory of Aging, which has dominated the field of aging research for almost half a century.
Urotensin II: A Novel Target in Human Corpus Cavernosum
Authors: d’Emmanuele Di Villa Bianca Roberta , Cirino Giuseppe , Mitidieri Emma , Coletta Ciro , Grassia Gianluca , Roviezzo Fiorentina , Grieco Paolo , Novellino Ettore , Imbimbo Ciro , Mirone Vincenzo , Sorrentino Raffaella
Published: September 2009

Introduction

Urotensin II (U-II) is a cyclic peptide originally isolated from the teleost neurosecretory system and subsequently identified in other species, including man. U-II was identified as the natural ligand of an orphan G-protein coupled receptor (UT receptor). U-II and UT receptor are expressed in a variety of peripheral organs and especially in cardiovascular tissue. U-II caused both constrictor and vasodilator effect, depending by vascular bed. The in vivo functional consequences of U-II on the cardiovascular hemodynamics are not clearly understood.

Aim

To investigate the presence of UT receptor and the effect of U-II in human corpus cavernosum (HCC) strips. To evaluate the effect of U-II in vivo in anesthetized rats.

Methods

UT receptor expression as protein and as mRNA were assessed by Western blot and reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. Next, the UT receptor localization was evaluated by immunohystochemical analysis. By using HCC strips, with or without endothelium, the effect of U-II (0.1 nM–10 µM) was evaluated. In order to asses the nitric oxide (NO) involvement, the strips were incubated with N (G)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (NO synthase inhibitor, 100 µM). U-II (0.1, 0.3, 1.0 nmol/rat) effect in vivo was studied in anesthetized rats by monitoring the intracavernous and systemic blood pressure.

Main Outcome Measures

HCC expresses the UT receptor and its activation, by UII, causes an endothelium- and NO-dependent relaxation.

Results

UT receptor is expressed in human and rat corpus cavernosum. In HCC UT receptor is localized on endothelial cells. U-II significantly relaxed HCC strips in endothelium- and –NO-dependent fashion. The peptide caused a significant increase in intracavernous pressure in anesthetized rats.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that UT receptor is expressed on the endothelium of HCC. U-II/UT receptor system is involved in HCC function and it involves endothelium and NO pathway. Thus, U-II/UT receptor pathway could be involved in erectile function.
Robot-Assisted Vessel Harvesting for Penile Revascularization
Authors: Raynor Mathew C. , Davis Rodney , Hellstrom Wayne J.G.
Published: September 2009

Introduction

Ideal candidates for penile revascularization include young patients with documented vasculogenic erectile dysfunction usually resulting from pelvic trauma. Historically, large midline incisions were necessary to harvest the epigastric vessels for penile revascularization. We report our experience with robot-assisted epigastric vessel harvesting for use in penile revascularization procedures.

Aim

To describe our technique and experience with robot-assisted vessel harvesting for use in penile revascularization.

Methods

Five patients were selected for penile revascularization. Each patient suffered pelvic crush injuries resulting in post-traumatic erectile dysfunction. Each patient had no significant prior medical history and had normal erectile function prior to injury. Penile duplex Doppler ultrasound studies using vasoactive agents demonstrated decreased arterial inflow. Complementary pelvic angiography documented the corresponding arterial lesions. Each patient underwent attempted penile revascularization using a modified Virag-V technique. The epigastric artery was harvested robotically and transposed through a 3 cm incision at the base of the penis. Microscopic revascularization was performed by anastamosing the epigastric artery to the deep dorsal vein. Distal dorsal vein ligation of the subcoronal plexus was performed to limit glans hyperemia.

Main Outcome Measures

Description of a new method of vessel harvesting for penile revascularization.

Results

Penile revascularization was successful in four out of five patients. One patient had complete thrombosis of the deep dorsal penile vein and underwent subsequent penile prosthesis implantation. Each patient undergoing successful revascularization was discharged home two days postoperatively and has reported resumption of sexual activity.

Conclusions

The robot-assisted approach to epigastric vessel harvesting is an ideal minimally-invasive complement to penile revascularization. This procedure negates the need for a large midline incision and may shorten recovery time. Our described technique offers a novel option for the application of minimally-invasive technology, but longer-term follow-up is needed to further evaluate the success of penile revascularization.
Dormancy‐inducing factors of rubber litter beetle, Luprops tristis (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae)
Authors: Vinod K.V. , Sabu Thomas K.
Published: September 2009

Abstract  The effect of photoperiod, temperature, humidity, rainfall and moisture were examined on the annual migration of Luprops tristis (Fabricius, 1801) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) from rubber plantations to shelters, and the induction of 9 months dormancy thereafter. Results confirm the role of rainfall‐mediated wetness from summer showers as the cue that induces dormancy in Luprops tristis and provide further proof to the function and significance of moisture in diapause induction in tropical insects. Other factors did not have any significant independent effect on migration and dormancy induction. Reserve food accumulation by teneral adults well ahead of the onset of adverse conditions and the non‐return of beetles to the field in short‐term favorable conditions strongly indicate that Luprops tristis has evolved the ability to “predict” and avoid adverse conditions and the inheritance of dormancy‐regulating factors from the parent generation.
Laboratory evaluation of flight activity of the common cutworm, Spodoptera litura (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Tu Ye‐Gou , Wu Kong‐Ming , Xue Fang‐Sen , Lu Yan‐Hui
Published: September 2009

Abstract  The flight activity of Spodoptera litura in tethered conditions is evaluated using a computer‐mediated flight‐mill in the laboratory. The 3–4‐day‐old moths fly longer and farther than those of other ages. Male and female moths exhibit similar flight activity. Mating status does not influence the flight duration and distance of 2‐day‐old females. However, these two flight parameters with a 6‐day‐old mated female is significantly lower than that of unmated ones. The optimum temperature for flight ranged from 16–24°C, whereas the optimum RH ranged from 60%–100%. During 72‐h period, the total flight duration and distance of 1‐day‐old male and female moths were 19.6 h (± 5.8) and 83.3 km (± 28.4), and 24.0 h (± 7.0) and 105.4 km (± 37.4), respectively. These results indicate that S. litura has a great potential to undertake long‐distance migratory flights.
SURVIVAL OF ESCHERICHIA COLI, STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS AND SALMONELLA ENTERITIDIS IN FROZEN CHICKEN HAMBURGER
Authors: CASARIN LETÍCIA SOPEÑA , TONDO EDUARDO CÉSAR , KLEIN MANUELA POLETTO , BRANDELLI ADRIANO
Published: September 2009

The survival of food pathogens during frozen storage of chicken hamburgers was evaluated. Hamburgers were contaminated with Escherichia coli (ECHC), Staphylococcus aureus (SAFH) and Salmonella Enteritidis (SE86), separately, and stored at −18C for 28 days. Results demonstrated reductions of 0.63 log10 cfu/g, 0.73 log10 cfu/g and 0.27 log10 most probable number/g in the populations of ECHC, SAFH and SE86, respectively. These microorganisms were also stored at −18C in 0.1% peptone water and presented significantly different reductions (P < 0.05) when compared with frozen hamburgers, suggesting that components of chicken hamburger may exert a cryoprotective effect on microbial cells.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Even though Brazilian poultry meat industries present high levels of quality control, the presence of bacterial pathogens in hamburgers may occur. In Brazil, chicken hamburgers are frequently commercialized frozen, and it is well established that frozen temperatures are able to avoid microbial growth. However, frozen temperatures can also be able to inactivate part of the bacterial population, and the magnitude of its effect will vary according to the type of food and the process that it was submitted. This study evaluated the survival of Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Salmonella Enteritidis in frozen hamburgers, aiming to verify if this process could provide an additional margin of safety to this product.
EFFECT OF ANTEMORTEM JOURNEY AND LAIRAGE AT ABATTOIR ON RABBIT MEAT QUALITY
Authors: PETRACCI MASSIMILIANO , BIANCHI MAURIZIO , VENTURI LUCA , CREMONINI MAURO ANDREA , CAVANI CLAUDIO
Published: September 2009

A study was conducted to determine the effects of journey duration (1 versus 3 h) and lairage time at abattoir (0 versus 5 h) on rabbit meat quality traits. Rabbits transported for 3 h produced meat with significantly higher pH values (P < 0.01), darker (lower L*values, P < 0.01) and less yellow (P < 0.05) color, as well as lower losses during cooking (P < 0.01), than those transported for 1 h. Moreover, animals laired for 5 h yielded meat with more (P < 0.05) yellow color, cooking losses (P < 0.05) and higher shear values (P < 0.01) than rabbits not laired before slaughtering. The nuclear magnetic resonance analysis revealed that these differences (P < 0.05) are mainly related to changes occurring in the distribution of myofibrillar (T21) and extra‐myofibrillar (T22) water. In conclusion, this study indicated that journey time and lairage at abattoir may play an important role in determining rabbit meat quality traits.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

In many previous studies that considered the effect of journey and lairage on rabbit meat quality, animals were stress‐induced by extreme conditions of journey and/or lairage that were unlikely to occur during commercial operations. The aim of this study is to establish whether meat quality characteristics are still influenced when journey and lairage times match current commercial production practices. Because processing‐plant efficiency depends on product uniformity, it will be interesting to test the potential variability effect of rabbit preslaughter practices on meat quality properties.
Patterns of precursor behaviors in the life span of a U.S. environmental terrorist group
Authors: Smith Brent L. , Damphousse Kelly R.
Published: September 2009

Research Summary

This article discusses the paucity of data available for assessing the “life span” of a terrorist group. It introduces a new methodology that allows researchers to examine when terrorist groups perform their preincident activities. The findings suggest that differences exist in the temporal patterns of terrorist groups: environmental terrorist groups engage in a relatively short planning cycle compared with right‐wing and international terrorists. The article concludes by examining a case study on “the Family,” which is a unique environmental terrorist group that conducted activities over a relatively long period of time. This group provides an interesting contrast to other environmental terrorists. Despite significant organizational differences, their patterns of preparatory conduct were highly similar.

Policy Implications

The findings suggest that (1) temporal and spatial data about preincident terrorist activity can be collected from unclassified and open sources and (2) law‐enforcement agencies that are investigating environmental groups have relatively little time to observe and infiltrate their individual cells (compared with right‐wing and international terrorists). Finally, the data suggest that environmental terrorists—at least so far—have engaged in attacks that are less deadly than the comparison groups.
An Experimental Use Exception from Patent Infringement for New Zealand
Authors: Frankel Susy
Published: September 2009

This article discusses New Zealand's approach to experimental use of patents. The article focuses on the current proposal to include an experimental use provision in the patent legislation. The history of such an exception in the common law is examined. The article concludes that the introduction of an experimental use exception has been discussed in isolation of what is the best economic and research policy outcome for New Zealand. In particular, questions are raised as to who would use the exception and what research would it attract to New Zealand. The present lack of an experimental use exception has not had the effect of increasing patent‐related research in New Zealand. Therefore, the author suggests that, overall, an experimental use exception could be a good thing, but the research benefits need to be discussed more fully. Also any exception needs to be carefully crafted in a way that the current proposal, adopted from an Australian proposal, is not.
Hope: a construct central to living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Milne Linda , Moyle Wendy , Cooke Marie
Published: September 2009

Background.  Hope plays an integral role in health and illness and may assist individuals to cope in difficult and adverse circumstances, for instance when living with an illness such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which can demand continuous adaptation.

Aim.  This paper reports the meaning of hope in people living with COPD as described by seven participants involved in a home‐based pulmonary maintenance program.

Methods.  Using an interpretive phenomenological approach a purposive sample of seven participants were interviewed to understand participants’ experiences of the phenomena of hope. An interpretative description is provided.

Results.  Thematic analysis revealed a number of themes, including that hope persists despite chronic illness and the unpredictable dilemmas of living with COPD. Many benefits were found to be gained from involvement in a home‐based pulmonary maintenance program, including increasing exercise capacity, hope and wellbeing.

Conclusion.  Despite the limitations imposed by living with COPD participants revealed a determination to live as normal a life as possible. The pulmonary maintenance program was pivotal in assisting participants to improve exercise capacity, hope and wellbeing. Nurses may have a role to play in helping people with COPD maintain or regain hope.
Psychometric validity of the 22‐item Sinonasal Outcome Test
Authors: Hopkins C. , Gillett S. , Slack R. , Lund V.J. , Browne J.P.
Published: September 2009

Objectives:  We set out to determine the psychometric validation of a disease‐specific health related quality of life instrument for use in chronic rhinosinusitis, the 22 item Sinonasal Outcome Test (SNOT‐22), a modification of a pre‐existing instrument, the SNOT‐20.

Design, setting and participants:  The National Comparative Audit of Surgery for Nasal Polyposis and Chronic Rhinosinusitis was a prospective cohort study collecting data on 3128 adult patients undergoing sinonasal surgery in 87 NHS hospitals in England and Wales. Data were collected preoperatively and at 3 months after surgery, and analysed to determine validity of the SNOT‐22. Test–retest reliability was assessed in a separate cohort of patients in a single centre.

Main outcome measures:  The SNOT‐22, a derivative of the SNOT‐20 was the main outcome measure. Patients were also asked to report whether they felt better, the same or worse following surgery. To evaluate the SNOT‐22, the internal consistency, responsiveness, known group differences and validity were analysed.

Results:  Preoperative SNOT‐22 scores were completed by 2803 patients. 3‐month postoperative SNOT‐22 scores were available for 2284 patients of all patients who completed a preoperative form (81.5% response rate). The Cronbach’s alpha scores for the SNOT‐22 were 0.91 indicating high internal consistency. The test–retest reliability coefficient was 0.93, indicating high reliability of repeated measures. The SNOT‐22 was able to discriminate between patients known to suffer with chronic rhinosinusitis and a group of healthy controls (P < 0.0001, t = 85.3). It was also able to identify statistically significant differences in sub‐groups of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis. There was a statistically significant (P < 0.0001, t = 39.94) decrease in patient reported SNOT‐22 scores at 3 months. At 3 months the overall effect size in all patients was 0.81, which is considered large. We found the minimally important difference that is the smallest change in SNOT‐22 score that can be detected by a patient, to be 8.9 points.

Conclusions:  We have found the SNOT‐22 to be valid and easy to use. It can be used to facilitate routine clinical practice to highlight the impact of chronic rhinosinusitis on the patient’s quality of life, and may also be used to measure the outcome of surgical intervention. The minimally important difference allows us to interpret scores in a clinical context, and may help to improve patient selection for surgery.
Is musical hallucination an otological phenomenon? a review of the literature
Authors: Cope T.E. , Baguley D.M.
Published: September 2009

Background:  Musical hallucination is the subjective experience of hearing music, or aspects of music, when none is being played, and as such is a disorder of the processing of complex sounds.

Objective of Review:  To determine the extent to which the otological system is responsible for musical hallucination, and to evaluate approaches to clinical management.

Type of Review:  A review of all studies and literature reviews pertaining to musical hallucination, supplemented by inclusion of informative case reports.

Search Strategy:  A systematic search of multiple databases carried out on 22nd March 2009 was complemented by referral to the reference lists of included manuscripts.

Results:  Although not always troublesome in itself, musical hallucination can be a marker of underlying pathology in the ear or brain, or indicate obsessive‐compulsive traits or social isolation, and is likely to be clinically underreported. Associations have been reported with hearing loss, female gender, social isolation and being over 60 years of age, although it is rare even in this group, and these may well not be independent risk factors. Robust comparative analysis of these factors with controls has yet to be undertaken. Underlying causes include neurovascular pathology, psychiatric disorders and opioid medications, however these are absent in the majority of cases.

Conclusions:  This review supports the proposal that the otological system plays a role in the pathogenesis of musical hallucination. Hearing impairment may act as an initiating factor, and the primary dysfunction is overactivity of auditory association cortex, although an impairment of higher‐level inhibition does also seem necessary. Once underlying sinister causes have been excluded, first line treatment should be explanation of the condition and optimisation of hearing. Medications have a role only in selected patient groups.