bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Theatrics of Technology: Consuming Obsidian in the Early Cycladic Burial Arena
Authors: Carter Tristan
Published: April 2007

Fine pressure‐flaked obsidian blades are a regular feature of burial assemblages from the Early Bronze I Cyclades. While they tend to be complete and unused, they are essentially the same products as those from contemporary settlements. This changed over time, with the development of a highly skilled knapping technology dedicated to the manufacture of long blades for consumption in funerary ritual. While some of these blades were employed as grave goods, others were withheld for distribution among the living participants of the ceremony. The cores remained in circulation prior to their reuse as pestles for preparing body paints. This chapter investigates this flamboyant technique through the metaphor of theater, offering a reconstruction as to how these episodes of production, distribution, and discard might have been staged and considers the ramifications of the performance, its actors, audience, and directors in the construction and maintenance of social relations among these small island communities.
Shame and the Experience of Ambivalence on the Margins of the Global: Pathologizing the Past and Present in Romania's Industrial Wastelands
Authors: Friedman Jack R.
Published: April 2007

This article examines shame in a context of political—economic decline (Jiu Valley, Romania). I argue that shame, which is traditionally associated with a "shrinking" feeling and social control, can take on a dual resonance for people situated in socioeconomic conditions of moral disorder. Shame can act as both a personal experience of self‐defeat as well as acting as a medium for critiquing the very system of socioeconomic norms and cultural values that work to make one feel ashamed. Using data drawn from research among coal miners in post‐state socialist Romania, this article illustrates how discourses associated with shame can be viewed as a critical understanding of the culturally meaningful experience of marginalization from and the ambivalence of global processes.
Circulating glucocorticoid bioactivity and serum cortisol concentrations in premature infants: the influence of exogenous glucocorticoids and clinical factors
Authors: Nykänen Päivi , Raivio Taneli , Heinonen Kirsti , Jänne Olli A , Voutilainen Raimo
Published: April 2007

Objective: Glucocorticoids are widely used before preterm delivery and in preterm infants may bear serious adverse effects. Better knowledge about the circulating glucocorticoid milieu after glucocorticoid treatment could improve treatment modalities. Therefore, we investigated the influence of exogenous glucocorticoids and clinical factors on serum cortisol (F) levels and circulating glucocorticoid bioactivity (GBA) in preterm infants.

Design: Eighty-nine infants (gestational age (GA) 23.6–33.1 weeks at birth) were enrolled in a prospective cohort study in two tertiary neonatal centres.

Methods: Cord, day of birth (D0), fourth day (D4) and 36 weeks postmenstrual age serum F and GBA levels were measured.

Results: The cord GBA was 5.8-fold and D0 GBA 2.3-fold higher in the infants exposed to antenatal steroids within 12 h before birth when compared with those unexposed or exposed >7 days before birth (95% CI 3.8–8.6; P<0.0001, and 1.8–3.0; P<0.0001 respectively). In the infants treated with early postnatal dexamethasone, D4 GBA was 1.7-fold (1.3–2.2; P<0.0005) higher when compared with levels in the infants without this treatment. Clinical factors indicating perinatal distress, such as Apgar scores <7 and low GA, were associated with higher cord, D0 and D4 serum F levels.

Conclusions: Both ante- and postnatally administered glucocorticoids increase circulating GBA not attributable to endogenous F. Perinatal distress and preceding glucocorticoid treatment need to be taken into account when circulating glucocorticoid milieu is evaluated in preterm infants. The GBA assay may prove to be a useful instrument in the development of new glucocorticoid treatment strategies.
Should parafibromin staining replace HRTP2 gene analysis as an additional tool for histologic diagnosis of parathyroid carcinoma?
Authors: Cetani Filomena , Ambrogini Elena , Viacava Paolo , Pardi Elena , Fanelli Giovanni , Naccarato Antonio Giuseppe , Borsari Simona , Lemmi Monica , Berti Piero , Miccoli Paolo , Pinchera Aldo , Marcocci Claudio
Published: April 2007

Objective: HRPT2 gene mutations are associated with parathyroid carcinomas, and absence of parafibromin immunoreactivity has been suggested as a diagnostic marker of malignancy. The aim of our study was to extend parafibromin studies in a series of benign and malignant parathyroid tumors and cross-validate the results of immunohistochemistry with those of HRPT2 analysis.

Design and patients: We performed parafibromin and cyclin D1 immunostaining and HRPT2 gene analysis using loss of heterozygosity studies and sequencing analysis in parathyroid specimens from 11 patients with carcinoma (eleven primary tumors, one skin, and four lung metastases), 22 with sporadic adenomas, and 4 with atypical adenomas.

Results: Ten out of eleven parathyroid cancers were negative for parafibromin staining and showed HRPT2 gene abnormalities. The remaining sample was negative for immunostaining and genetic analyses. All but one sporadic adenomas showed parafibromin immunoreactivity and no HRPT2 gene abnormalities. The sample with negative immunostaining carried an HRPT2 mutation. Two atypical adenomas were positive and two negative with parafibromin staining. No HRPT2 abnormalities were found in these samples. Cyclin D1 expression was heterogeneous and there was no relationship between expression/expression level of cyclin D1 and parafibromin expression.

Conclusions: We have shown that negative parafibromin staining is almost invariably associated with HRPT2 mutations and confirm that loss of parafibromin staining strongly predicts parathyroid malignancy. In clinical practice, these tests could be particularly useful in the subset of parathyroid tumors with equivocal histological examination. However, their diagnostic value in this setting remains to be proven.
Sick leave for follow-up control in thyroid cancer patients: comparison between stimulation with Thyrogen and thyroid hormone withdrawal
Authors: Borget I , Corone C , Nocaudie M , Allyn M , Iacobelli S , Schlumberger M , De Pouvourville G
Published: April 2007

Introduction: The clinical benefits of recombinant human thyroid-stimulating hormone (rhTSH; Thyrogen) are well established as an alternative stimulation procedure to thyroid hormone withdrawal in the diagnostic follow-up of thyroid cancer patients. By avoiding periods of hypothyroidism, patients do not suffer from a decreased quality of life and keep their ability to work. This study compared the frequency, the duration and the cost of sick leave for follow-up control between rhTSH and withdrawal.

Methods: The study population consisted of patients with thyroid carcinoma first treated by thyroidectomy and radioiodine ablation. Patients were recruited at their control visit between October 2004 and May 2006 in three hospitals, both prospectively and retrospectively. Collection data consisted of patient information, job characteristics and duration of sick leave during the month before and the month after control. The valuation of sick leave used the friction cost method.

Results: Among the 306 patients included, 292 (95%) completed the entire questionnaire. The mean age was 46.7 years. Among the 194 active patients, patients treated with rhTSH, when compared with patients treated by withdrawal, were less likely to require sick leave (11 vs 33%; P=0.001). The mean duration of sick leave was shorter (3.1 vs 11.2 days; P=0.002) and indirect costs due to absenteeism accounted for €454 ± 1673 vs €1537 ± 2899 for withdrawal stimulation.

Conclusion: For active patients, rhTSH treatment reduced the length and the cost of sick leave by 8.1 days and €1083 per control respectively, when compared with withdrawal treatment.
The effect of testosterone replacement therapy on adipocytokines and C-reactive protein in hypogonadal men with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Kapoor D , Clarke S , Stanworth R , Channer K S , Jones T H
Published: April 2007

Objective: Serum testosterone levels are known to inversely correlate with insulin sensitivity and obesity in men. Furthermore, there is evidence to suggest that testosterone replacement therapy reduces insulin resistance and visceral adiposity in type 2 diabetic men. Adipocytokines are hormones secreted by adipose tissue and contribute to insulin resistance. We examined the effects of testosterone replacement treatment on various adipocytokines and C-reactive protein (CRP) in type 2 diabetic men.

Design: Double-blinded placebo-controlled crossover study in 20 hypogonadal type 2 diabetic men. Patients were treated with testosterone (sustanon 200 mg) or placebo intramuscularly every 2 weeks for 3 months in random order followed by a washout period of 1 month before the alternate treatment phase.

Methods: Leptin, adiponectin, resistin, tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-6 and CRP levels were measured before and after each treatment phase. Body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference were also recorded.

Results: At baseline, leptin levels significantly correlated with BMI and waist circumference. There was a significant inverse correlation between baseline IL-6 and total testosterone (r=−0.68; P=0.002) and bioavailable testosterone levels (r=−0.73; P=0.007). CRP levels also correlated significantly with total testosterone levels (r=−0.59; P=0.01). Testosterone treatment reduced leptin (−7141.9 ± 1461.8 pg/ml; P=0.0001) and adiponectin levels (−2075.8 ± 852.3 ng/ml; P=0.02). There was a significant reduction in waist circumference. No significant effects of testosterone therapy on resistin, TNF-α, IL-6 or CRP levels were observed.

Conclusion: Testosterone replacement treatment decreases leptin and adiponectin levels in type 2 diabetic men. Moreover, low levels of testosterone in men are associated with pro-inflammatory profile, though testosterone treatment over 3 months had no effect on inflammatory markers.
Phase stability and consolidation of glassy/nanostructured Al85Ni9Nd4Co2alloys
Authors: Zhang L.C. , Calin M. , Branzei M. , Schultz L. , Eckert J.
Published: April 2007

Al85Ni9Nd4Co2metallic glass/nanostructured ribbons and powders were used as starting materials for producing bulk amorphous/nanostructured Al-based alloys. Glassy ribbons were obtained by melt spinning at wheel surface velocities ranging from 5 to 37 m/s. The amorphous ribbons exhibited a supercooled liquid region of ∼20 K, a reduced glass transition temperature of ∼0.47 and γ ∼ 0.328. Mechanical alloying of the elemental powder mixture did not lead to amorphization. However, amorphous powders obtained by milling the glassy ribbons for 9 h exhibited a thermal stability similar to the initial ribbons. Isothermal differential scanning calorimetry measurements were used to determine the consolidation parameters of the glassy powders. Consolidation at 513 K by uniaxial hot pressing and hot extrusion indicated that the former method leads to bulk glassy samples, whereas the latter one yields nanostructured α-Al/glassy matrix composites.
X-ray reflectometry and spectroscopic ellipsometry characterization of Al2O3 atomic layer deposition on HF-last and NH3 plasma pretreatment Si substrates
Authors: Lu Hong-Liang , Xu Min , Ding Shi-Jin , Chen Wei , Zhang David Wei , Wang Li-Kang
Published: April 2007

Al2O3 films are grown by atomic layer deposition (ALD) using trimethylaluminum and water as precursors on HF-last and NH3 plasma pretreatment Si substrates. The thickness, surface roughness, and density of Al2O3 films as well as the nature of their interlayers with Si substrates are characterized by x-ray reflectivity and spectroscopic ellipsometry techniques. The growth rates of Al2O3 films are 1.1 Å/cycle and 1.3 Å/cycle, respectively, on HF-last and NH3-plasma-nitrided surfaces. Al2O3 layer densities are rather independent of the number of growth cycles in all cases. The interfacial film thickness increases with the number of ALD cycles when deposited on an HF-last Si substrate. However, because SiOxNy inhibits oxygen diffusion, the interfacial film thickness is independent of the number of ALD cycles on the nitrided Si substrate.
Essential Alterations of Heparan Sulfate During the Differentiation of Embryonic Stem Cells to Sox1-Enhanced Green Fluorescent Protein-Expressing Neural Progenitor Cells
Authors: Johnson Claire E. , Crawford Brett E. , Stavridis Marios , ten Dam Gerdy , Wat Annie L. , Rushton Graham , Ward Christopher M. , Wilson Valerie , van Kuppevelt Toin H. , Esko Jeffrey D. , Smith Austin , Gallagher John T. , Merry Catherine L. R.
Published: April 2007

Embryonic stem (ES) cells can be cultured in conditions that either maintain pluripotency or allow differentiation to the three embryonic germ layers. Heparan sulfate (HS), a highly polymorphic glycosaminoglycan, is a critical cell surface coreceptor in embryogenesis, and in this paper we describe its structural transition from an unusually low-sulfated variant in ES cells to a more highly sulfated form in fluorescence-activated cell sorting-purified neural progenitor cells. The characteristic domain structure of HS was retained during this transformation. However, qualitative variations in surface sulfation patterns between ES and differentiated cells were revealed using HS epitope-specific antibodies and the HS-binding growth factor fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF-2). Expression profiles of the HS modification enzymes indicated that both “early” (N-sulfotransferases) and “late” (6O- and 3O-sulfotransferases) sulfotransferases contributed to the alterations in sulfation patterning. An HS-null ES line was used to demonstrate the necessity for HS in neural differentiation. HS is a coreceptor for many of the protein effectors implicated in pluripotency and differentiation (e.g., members of the FGF family, bone morphogenic proteins, and fibronectin). We suggest that the stage-specific activities of these proteins are finely regulated by dynamic changes in sulfation motifs in HS chains.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Complete Spinal Cord Injury Treatment Using Autologous Bone Marrow Cell Transplantation and Bone Marrow Stimulation with Granulocyte Macrophage-Colony Stimulating Factor: Phase I/II Clinical Trial
Authors: Yoon Seung Hwan , Shim Yu Shik , Park Yong Hoon , Chung Jong Kwon , Nam Jung Hyun , Kim Myung Ok , Park Hyung Chun , Park So Ra , Min Byoung-Hyun , Kim Eun Young , Choi Byung Hyune , Park Hyeonseon , Ha Yoon
Published: April 2007

To assess the safety and therapeutic efficacy of autologous human bone marrow cell (BMC) transplantation and the administration of granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF), a phase I/II open-label and nonrandomized study was conducted on 35 complete spinal cord injury patients. The BMCs were transplanted by injection into the surrounding area of the spinal cord injury site within 14 injury days (n = 17), between 14 days and 8 weeks (n = 6), and at more than 8 weeks (n = 12) after injury. In the control group, all patients (n = 13) were treated only with conventional decompression and fusion surgery without BMC transplantation. The patients underwent preoperative and follow-up neurological assessment using the American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale (AIS), electrophysiological monitoring, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The mean follow-up period was 10.4 months after injury. At 4 months, the MRI analysis showed the enlargement of spinal cords and the small enhancement of the cell implantation sites, which were not any adverse lesions such as malignant transformation, hemorrhage, new cysts, or infections. Furthermore, the BMC transplantation and GM-CSF administration were not associated with any serious adverse clinical events increasing morbidities. The AIS grade increased in 30.4% of the acute and subacute treated patients (AIS A to B or C), whereas no significant improvement was observed in the chronic treatment group. Increasing neuropathic pain during the treatment and tumor formation at the site of transplantation are still remaining to be investigated. Long-term and large scale multicenter clinical study is required to determine its precise therapeutic effect.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Contribution of Bone Marrow-Derived Stem Cells to Endometrium and Endometriosis
Authors: Du Hongling , Taylor Hugh S.
Published: April 2007

Bone marrow-derived cells (BMDCs) can differentiate into nonhematopoietic cells, suggesting that BMDCs may contribute to the maintenance of multiple tissues. Donor-derived bone marrow cells have been identified in human uterine endometrium. Here, two murine models were used to investigate the contribution of nonendometrial stem cells to endometrium. We investigate whether BMDCs can localize to uterine endometrium and to endometriosis. After bone marrow transplantation, male donor-derived bone marrow cells were found in the uterine endometrium of female mice. Although uncommon (<0.01%), these cells can differentiate into epithelial cells. After generation of experimental endometriosis by ectopic endometrial implantation in the peritoneal cavity, bone marrow from LacZ transgenic mice was used for transplantation. LacZ expressing cells were found in the wild-type ectopic endometrium implanted in the peritoneal cavity of hysterectomized LacZ transgenic mice. The repopulation of endometrium with bone marrow-derived stem cells may be important to normal endometrial physiology and also may help to explain the cellular basis for the high long-term failure of conservative alternatives to hysterectomy. The examination of a sexually dimorphic organ such as the uterus demonstrates the ability of male bone marrow, which cannot harbor circulating endometrial cells, to generate endometrium de novo and proves their mesenchymal stem cell origin. Finding Y chromosome bearing endometrial cells demonstrates the potential to recapitulate embryonic developmental pathways that were never activated in males; BMDCs may have vast regenerative capacity. Additionally, the ability of stem cells to engraft endometriosis has implications for the origin and progression of this disease. Ectopic differentiation of stem cells may be a novel mechanism of disease.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Clonal Analysis of Human Embryonic Stem Cell Differentiation into Teratomas
Authors: Blum Barak , Benvenisty Nissim
Published: April 2007

Differentiation of human embryonic stem cells (HESCs) can be studied in vivo through the induction of teratomas in immune-deficient mice. Cells within the teratomas differentiate into all three embryonic germ layers. However, the exact nature of the proliferation and differentiation of HESCs within the teratoma is not fully characterized, and it is not clear whether the differentiation is cell autonomous or affected by neighboring cells. Here, we establish a genetic approach to study the clonality of differentiation in teratomas using a mixture of HESC lines. We first demonstrate, by means of 5-bromo-2′-deoxyuridine incorporation, that cell proliferation occurs throughout the teratoma, and that there are no clusters of undifferentiated-proliferating cells. Using a combination of laser capture microdissection and DNA fingerprinting analysis, we show that different cell lines contribute mutually to the same distinctive tissue structures. Further support for the nonclonal differentiation within the teratoma was achieved by fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis of sex chromosomes. We therefore suggest that in vivo differentiation of HESCs is polyclonal and, thus, may not be cell autonomous, stressing the need for a three-dimensional growth in order to achieve complex differentiation of HESCs.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Effects of exercise on gut peptides, energy intake and appetite
Authors: Martins Catia , Morgan Linda M , Bloom Stephen R , Robertson M Denise
Published: April 2007

This study investigated the acute effects of exercise on the postprandial levels of appetite-related hormones and metabolites, energy intake (EI) and subjective measures of appetite. Ghrelin, polypeptide YY (PYY), glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and pancreatic polypeptide (PP) were measured in the fasting state and postprandially in 12 healthy, normal-weight volunteers (six males and six females) using a randomised crossover design. One hour after a standardised breakfast, subjects either cycled for 60 min at 65% of their maximal heart rate or rested. Subjective appetite was assessed throughout the study using visual analogue scales and subsequent EI at a buffet meal was measured at the end (3-h post-breakfast and 1-h post-exercise). Exercise significantly increased mean PYY, GLP-1 and PP levels, and this effect was maintained during the post-exercise period for GLP-1 and PP. No significant effect of exercise was observed on postprandial levels of ghrelin. During the exercise period, hunger scores were significantly decreased; however, this effect disappeared in the post-exercise period. Exercise significantly increased subsequent absolute EI, but produced a significant decrease in relative EI after accounting for the energy expended during exercise. Hunger scores and PYY, GLP-1 and PP levels showed an inverse temporal pattern during the 1-h exercise/control intervention. In conclusion, acute exercise, of moderate intensity, temporarily decreased hunger sensations and was able to produce a short-term negative energy balance. This impact on appetite and subsequent energy homeostasis was not explained by changes in postprandial levels of ghrelin; however, ‘exercise-induced anorexia’ may potentially be linked to increased PYY, GLP-1 and PP levels.
Effects on Sexual Risk Behavior and STD Rate of Brief HIV/STD Prevention Interventions for African American Women in Primary Care Settings
Authors: Jemmott Loretta Sweet , Jemmott John B. , O’Leary Ann
Published: April 2007

Objectives. We tested the efficacy of brief HIV/sexually transmitted disease (STD) risk-reduction interventions for African American women in primary care settings.

Methods. In a randomized controlled trial, 564 African American women recruited at a Newark, NJ, inner-city women’s health clinic were assigned to a 20-minute one-on-one HIV/STD behavioral skill-building intervention, 200-minute group HIV/STD behavioral skill-building intervention, 20-minute one-on-one HIV/STD information intervention, 200-minute group HIV/STD information intervention, or 200-minute health intervention control group. Primary outcomes were self-reported sexual behaviors in the previous 3 months; secondary outcome was STD incidence.

Results. At 12-month follow-up, participants in the skill-building interventions reported less unprotected sexual intercourse than did participants in the information interventions (Cohen’s d [d]=0.23, P=.02), reported a greater proportion of protected sexual intercourse than did information intervention participants (d=0.21, P=.05) and control participants (d=0.24, P=.03), and were less likely to test positive for an STD than were control participants (d=0.20, P=.03).

Conclusions. This study suggests that brief single-session, one-on-one or group skill-building interventions may reduce HIV/STD risk behaviors and STD morbidity among inner-city African American women in primary care settings.
Association Between Condom Use at Sexual Debut and Subsequent Sexual Trajectories: A Longitudinal Study Using Biomarkers
Authors: Shafii Taraneh , Stovel Katherine , Holmes King
Published: April 2007

Objectives. We compared subsequent sexual behaviors and risk of sexually transmitted infections among adolescents who did and did not use a condom at their sexual debut.

Methods. We derived data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health, which followed a sample of 4018 sexually active adolescents between 1994 and 2002. During waves I, II, and III of the study, data on sexual behavior were gathered, and at wave III urine specimens were collected to test for sexually transmitted infections.

Results. Among interviewed adolescents, those who reported condom use at their debut were more likely than those who did not use condoms at their debut to report condom use at their most recent intercourse (on average 6.8 years after sexual debut), and they were only half as likely to test positive for chlamydia or gonorrhea (adjusted odds ratio=0.50; 95% confidence interval=0.26, 0.95). Reported lifetime numbers of sexual partners did not differ between the 2 groups.

Conclusions. Adolescents who use condoms at their sexual debut do not report more sexual partners, are more likely to engage in subsequent protective behaviors, and experience fewer sexually transmitted infections than do adolescents who do not use condoms at their sexual debut.
Trends in Primary and Secondary Syphilis Among Men Who Have Sex with Men in the United States
Authors: Heffelfinger James D. , Swint Emmett B. , Berman Stuart M. , Weinstock Hillard S.
Published: April 2007

Objectives. We assessed the epidemiology of primary and secondary syphilis in the United States and estimated the percentages of cases occurring among men who have sex with men (MSM).

Methods. We reviewed US syphilis surveillance data from 1990 through 2003. We estimated the number of cases occurring among MSM by modeling changes in the ratio of syphilis cases among men to cases among women.

Results. During 1990 through 2000, the rate of primary and secondary syphilis decreased 90% overall, declining 90% among men and 89% among women. The overall rate increased 19% between 2000 and 2003, reflecting a 62% increase among men and a 53% decrease among women. In 2003, an estimated 62% of reported cases occurred among MSM.

Conclusions. Increasing syphilis cases among MSM account for most of the recent overall increase in rates and may be a harbinger of increasing rates of HIV infection among MSM. National efforts are under way to improve monitoring of syphilis trends, better understand factors associated with the observed increases, and improve efforts to prevent syphilis transmission.
Mycoplasma genitalium Among Young Adults in the United States: An Emerging Sexually Transmitted Infection
Authors: Manhart Lisa E. , Holmes King K. , Hughes James P. , Houston Laura S. , Totten Patricia A.
Published: April 2007

Objectives. We sought to determine the prevalence of and risk factors associated with Mycoplasma genitalium infection in a nationally representative sample of young adults in the United States.

Methods. Urine specimens from 1714 women and 1218 men who participated in Wave III of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (N=14322) were tested for M genitalium. Poststratification sampling weights were used to generate nationally representative estimates.

Results. The prevalence of M genitalium was 1.0% compared with 0.4%, 4.2%, and 2.3% for gonococcal, chlamydial, and trichomonal infections, respectively. No M genitalium–positive individuals reported symptoms of discharge. M genitalium prevalence among those who reported vaginal intercourse was 1.1% compared with 0.05% among those who did not. In multivariate analyses, M genitalium prevalence was 11 times higher among respondents who reported living with a sexual partner, 7 times higher among Blacks, and 4 times higher among those who used condoms during their last vaginal intercourse. Prevalence of M genitalium increased by 10% for each additional sexual partner.

Conclusions. M genitalium was more prevalent than Neisseria gonorrhoeae but less prevalent than Chlamydia trachomatis, and it was strongly associated with sexual activity.
Tip of the Iceberg: Young Men Who Have Sex With Men, the Internet, and HIV Risk
Authors: Garofalo Robert , Herrick Amy , Mustanski Brian S. , Donenberg Geri Rachel
Published: April 2007

Objectives. We examined the prevalence of Internet use for meeting sexual partners (Internet partners) and HIV risk behaviors associated with this use among young men who have sex with men (aged 16–24 years).

Methods. A sample of 270 young men who have sex with men completed a computer-assisted survey. We used bivariate χ2 analyses and hierarchical logistic regression to assess factors associated with Internet-facilitated sexual encounters.

Results. Using the Internet to meet sexual partners was common; 48% of our sample had sexual relations with a partner they met online. Of these, only 53% used condoms consistently, and 47% reported having sexual partners older (>4 years) than themselves. Regression analyses showed increased age, White race/ethnicity, history of unprotected anal intercourse, multiple anal intercourse partners, and engaging in sexual activity at a sex club or a bathhouse were associated with meeting sexual partners through the Internet. Only history of unprotected anal intercourse was associated with risky sexual behaviors with Internet partners (P<0.025).

Conclusions. Young men who have sex with men and who seek partners online also engage in other behaviors that place them at risk for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.
“He Won’t Use Condoms”: HIV-Infected Women’s Struggles in Primary Relationships With Serodiscordant Partners
Authors: Stevens Patricia E. , Galvao Loren
Published: April 2007

We investigated the sexual behaviors of 55 HIV-infected women in Wisconsin who narrated their lives in 10 interviews over 2 years during 2000 to 2003. We sought to examine the interpersonal situations in which sexual risk occurred. During the prospective period, 58% (32) were abstinent and 24% (13) practiced safe sex exclusively. The remaining 18% (10) engaged in unprotected sexual intercourse, but only in primary partnerships, almost all of which were with serodiscordant partners. We focused on experiential detail and narrative depth of 10 women who had sex without condoms. These narratives demonstrate how the women attempted to initiate condom use but engaged in unprotected sexual intercourse regularly at the insistence of their partners. Consequently, these women lived in trepidation of causing their partners’ sickness and death.
The Effect of Social Support on Mental and Behavioral Outcomes Among Adolescents With Parents With HIV/AIDS
Authors: Lee Sung-Jae , Detels Roger , Rotheram-Borus Mary Jane , Duan Naihua
Published: April 2007

Objectives. We examined the associations between social support and mental and behavioral outcomes among adolescents whose parents were infected with or died of HIV/AIDS.

Methods. Families (parents who were HIV infected and their adolescent children) were randomly assigned to a coping skills intervention or a standard care group. After completing the intervention, the parents and adolescents were assessed for 2 years.

Results. Adolescents who had more social support providers reported significantly lower levels of depression and fewer conduct problems; adolescents who had more negative influence from role models reported more behavior problems. Reductions in depression, multiple problem behaviors, and conduct problems were significantly associated with better social support.

Conclusions. Our findings underscore the complex relations between social support and mental and behavioral outcomes among adolescents affected by HIV/AIDS. Future prevention programs must focus on increasing social support to reduce negative outcomes among adolescents affected by HIV/AIDS as well as the need to reduce influence from negative role models.
Women Who Report Having Sex With Women: British National Probability Data on Prevalence, Sexual Behaviors, and Health Outcomes
Authors: Mercer Catherine H. , Bailey Julia V. , Johnson Anne M. , Erens Bob , Wellings Kaye , Fenton Kevin A. , Copas Andrew J.
Published: April 2007

Objectives. We estimated the prevalence of same-sex experience among women and compared women reporting sex with women and men and women reporting sex exclusively with women with women reporting sex exclusively with men, in terms of sociodemographics and sexual, reproductive, and general health risk behaviors and outcomes.

Methods. We used a British probability survey (n=6399 women, aged 16 to 44 years) conducted from 1999 to 2001 with face-to-face interviewing and computer-assisted self-interviewing.

Results. We found that 4.9% of the women reported same-sex partner(s) ever; 2.8% reported sex with women in the past 5 years (n=178); 85.0% of these women also reported male partner(s) in this time. Compared with women who reported sex exclusively with men, women who reported sex with women and men reported significantly greater male partner numbers, unsafe sex, smoking, alcohol consumption, and intravenous drug use and had an increased likelihood of induced abortion and sexually transmitted infection diagnoses (age-adjusted odds ratios=3.07 and 4.41, respectively).

Conclusions. For women, a history of sex with women may be a marker for increased risk of adverse sexual, reproductive, and general health outcomes compared with women who reported sex exclusively with men. A nonjudgmental review of female patients’ sexual history should help practitioners discuss risks that women may face.
Racial/Ethnic and Age Disparities in HIV Prevalence and Disease Progression Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in the United States
Authors: Hall H. Irene , Byers Robert H. , Ling Qiang , Espinoza Lorena
Published: April 2007

Objectives. We examined HIV diagnosis rates and disease progression among men who have sex with men (MSM) according to race/ethnicity and age.

Methods. Using data obtained from the national HIV/AIDS surveillance system, we examined trends in HIV diagnosis rates for 2001 through 2004 using Poisson regression. We used a standardized Kaplan–Meier method to determine differences in time of progression from HIV to AIDS and AIDS survival.

Results. HIV diagnosis rates were higher for Black and Hispanic than for White MSM, but trends within age groups from 2001 to 2004 did not differ by race/ethnicity. Diagnosis rates increased among MSM aged 13 to 19 years (14% per year), 20 to 24 years (13%), 25 to 29 years, and 40 to 54 years (3%–6%; P≤ .01 for each). The percentage of MSM who did not have AIDS 3 years after HIV diagnosis was lower among Black (66.8%; 95% confidence interval [CI]=66.1, 67.4) and Hispanic (68.1%; 95% CI=67.5, 68.8) than among White MSM (74.7%; 95% CI=74.2, 75.1). Three-year survival after AIDS diagnosis was lower for Black than for White or Hispanic MSM.

Conclusions. HIV prevention efforts should target young and middle-aged MSM and must offer early diagnosis and treatment for all MSM.
Men’s Extramarital Sexuality in Rural Papua New Guinea
Authors: Wardlow Holly
Published: April 2007

Married women in rural Papua New Guinea are at risk for HIV primarily because of their husbands’ extramarital relationships. Labor migration puts these men in social contexts that encourage infidelity. Moreover, many men do not view sexual fidelity as necessary for achieving a happy marriage, but they view drinking and “looking for women” as important for male friendships.

Although fear of HIV infection is increasing, the concern that men most often articulated about the consequences of extramarital infidelity was possible violent retaliation for “stealing” another man’s wife. Therefore, divorced or separated women who exchange sex for money are considered to be “safe” partners. Interventions that promote fidelity will fail in the absence of a social and economic infrastructure that supports fidelity.
Decreased Semen Volume and Spermatozoa Motility in HIV‐1‐Infected Patients Under Antiretroviral Treatment
Authors: Bujan Louis , Sergerie Martin , Moinard Nathalie , Martinet Stéphanie , Porte Lydie , Massip Patrice , Pasquier Christophe , Daudin Myriam
Published: April 2007

ABSTRACT: Inconsistent results have been reported for the semen quality in HIV‐infected men, due to the biases inherent in some studies. The objective of the present study was to investigate the semen parameters in HIV‐1‐infected patients and to compare their sperm characteristics with those of a control group of fertile, noninfected men. Factors implicated in semen alterations in HIV‐1 patients were also analyzed. HIV‐infected men (n = 190), of whom 91% were undergoing antiretroviral therapy, and 218 fertile men were studied. Infertility risk factors were recorded and clinical examinations were performed for both groups. Records of history of HIV infection, antiretroviral treatment, and HIV‐1 RNA detection in the blood as well as HIV‐1 genome detection in the semen were obtained for the infected patients. Semen volumes, percentages of progressive motile spermatozoa, total sperm counts, and polymorphonuclear cell counts were decreased, while the pH values and spermatozoa multiple anomaly indices were increased in HIV‐infected patients. Even after adjustment for possible sources of bias, the decreases in semen volume and progressive motility and the increase in pH remained significant. The present study demonstrates sperm motility and ejaculate volume alterations in HIV‐1‐infected patients, most of whom were receiving antiretroviral therapy. In HIV‐1 patients, further longitudinal studies are required to analyze the impact of treatment regimen on sperm parameter alterations.
Impaired Semen Quality Associated With Environmental DDT Exposure in Young Men Living in a Malaria Area in the Limpopo Province, South Africa
Authors: Aneck‐Hahn Natalie H. , Schulenburg Gloria W. , Bornman Maria S. , Farias Paulina , de Jager Christiaan
Published: April 2007

ABSTRACT:The pesticide DDT [1,1,1‐trichloro‐2,2‐bis(chlorodiphenyl)ethane] is 1 of the 12 persistent organic pollutants (POPs) under negotiation at the Stockholm Convention to restrict or ban their production and use because of their toxicity, resistance to breakdown, bioaccumulation, and potential for being transported over long distances. DDT has estrogenic potential, and the main metabolite,p,p′‐dichlorodiphenyl‐dichloroethylene (p,p′‐DDE), is a potent antiandrogen. In response to mounting evidence on the endocrine‐disrupting influence of environmental chemicals on human health, this epidemiological study was initiated to test the hypothesis that nonoccupational exposure to DDT affects male reproductive parameters. In a cross‐sectional study, healthy male subjects (n = 311) between 18 and 40 years (23 ± 5) of age were recruited from 3 communities in an endemic malaria area in which DDT is sprayed annually. A semen analysis according to World Health Organization (WHO) standards was performed. The Hamilton Thorne Computer Assisted Sperm Analysis (CASA) system was simultaneously used to determine additional sperm motility parameters. Blood plasma samples were assayed forp,p′‐DDT and metabolites as a measure of exposure. The exposure levels were expressed as lipid‐adjustedp,p′‐DDT andp,p′‐DDE values. The meanp,p′‐DDT andp,p′‐DDE concentrations were 90.23 μg/g(±102.4) and 215.47 μg/g(±210.6), respectively. The multivariate linear regression analyses indicated that mean CASA motility was lower with a higherp,p′‐DDE concentration (β = −0.02,P= .001) and the CASA parameter beat cross‐frequency (BCF) was higher with a higherp,p′‐DDT concentration (β = 0.01,P= .000). There was also a statistically significant positive association between percent sperm with cytoplasmic droplets andp,p′‐DDT concentration (β = 0.0014,P= .014). The ejaculate volume (mean 1.9 ± 1.33 mL) was lower than the normal range (≥2.0 mL) according to WHO, and a significant decrease with increasingp,p′‐DDE values was seen for both square root—transformed volume (β = −0.0003;P= .024) and count (β = −0.003;P= .04). Although there were no associations between eitherp,p′‐DDT orp,p′‐DDE concentrations and the rest of the seminal parameters, the incidence of teratozoospermia (99%; normal sperm <15%) was high. Twenty‐eight percent of the study group presented with oligozoospermia (<20 × 106sperm/mL), which had a significant positive association withp,p′‐DDE (odds ratio [OR] = 1.001,P= .03). There was a significant positive association between participants with asthenozoospermia (32%) andp,p′‐DDT (OR 1.003,P= .006) andp,p′‐DDE (OR 1.001,P= .02). The results imply that nonoccupational exposure to DDT is associated with impaired seminal parameters in men. The high exposure levels ofp,p′‐DDT andp,p′‐DDE are of concern because these levels could have far‐reaching implications for reproductive and general health.
Effects of Seminal Plasma on Cooling‐Induced Capacitative Changes in Boar Sperm
Authors: Vadnais Melissa L. , Roberts Kenneth P.
Published: April 2007

ABSTRACT:Porcine seminal plasma (SP) has been shown to contain factors that have a decapacitative or capacitation‐inhibiting effect on sperm. The objectives of the present study were to compare the capacitative changes observed in cooled sperm with those seen in sperm after in vitro capacitation and to determine whether SP could prevent these changes. Sperm were subjected to incubation or to slow cooling under noncapacitating or capacitating conditions. The effect of SP on protein tyrosine phosphorylation and the ability of the sperm to undergo an acrosome reaction (AR) were determined. Cooled sperm displayed an increased level of tyrosine phosphorylation and a higher percentage of induced AR sperm compared to incubated sperm. The addition of SP inhibited the number of ARs that occurred during incubation and cooling. These results suggest that cooling of sperm augments the capacitative changes in sperm, and that SP contains a factor(s) that effectively prevents these changes.
Abnormal Morphology of Spermatozoa in Cytochrome P450 17α‐hydroxylase/17, 20‐lyase (CYP17) Deficient Mice
Authors: Liu Ying , Dettin Luis E. , Folmer Janet , Zirkin Barry R. , Papadopoulos Vassilios
Published: April 2007

ABSTRACT: Cytochrome P450 17α‐hydroxylase/17, 20‐lyase (CYP17) is crucial for cortisol and sex steroid biosynthesis. In a previous study we examined CYP17 function by generating mice with a targeted CYP17 deletion. We found that in addition to its role in steroid biosynthesis, CYP17 is present in germ cells. In the present study we examined the effect of CYP17 on sperm morphology. Disorganization of the sperm midpiece, small sperm mitochondria with reduced inner membranes and matrix, and irregular sperm shape were found to be associated with the CYP17 gene deletion. Treating the mice carrying the CYP17 deletion with testosterone did not alleviate the observed sperm phenotypes, suggesting that CYP17 acts in a testosterone‐independent manner. These results suggest that CYP17, in addition to its role in androgen formation, is critical for proper mitochondrial architecture and sperm morphology and thus for sperm function and normal fertility.
Multiple-Gestation Pregnancies after Assisted Reproductive Technology Treatment: Population Trends and Future Directions
Authors: Schieve Laura A
Published: April 2007

Assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatments, such as in vitro fertilization, have benefited many couples worldwide. However, ART as currently practiced, with the usual transfer of at least two embryos, poses sizable risks for multiple-gestation pregnancy and accompanying serious maternal and child health sequelae. While limiting the number of embryos transferred would appear a straightforward solution, treatments with single-embryo transfer are rare. Likely reasons for this include patient and provider desires to maximize the chance for success in a single treatment given the high cost and lack of insurance coverage, the (sometimes mistaken) belief that transferring more embryos will increase the chance for pregnancy, and the preference for multiple births among some women undergoing ART. Although recent population-based data in the USA and Europe suggest the number of embryos transferred is decreasing, the ART multiple-birth rate remains high. Comprehensive patient-education efforts and continued research on the efficacy of single-embryo transfer are needed.
Mandatory Fortification of Flour with Folic Acid to Prevent Neural-Tube Defects
Authors: Bower Carol
Published: April 2007

Firm evidence from randomized, controlled trials that maternal periconceptional folic acid reduced the risk of neural-tube defects was published in the early 1990s. Despite promotion of periconceptional folic acid supplement use, no more than 50% of women take them and so mandatory fortification of a staple food has been considered by many countries as an important adjunct to any public-health approach for the prevention of neural-tube defects. Even 15 years after the confirming evidence, some countries have yet to commit to mandatory fortification and, in those that have, there is limited and poorly coordinated monitoring and evaluation of its effectiveness and safety.
Migraine and Cardiocerebrovascular Risk in Women
Authors: Agostoni Elio , Aliprandi Angelo
Published: April 2007

The interest of the medical community has recently focused on the relationship between gender and cardiocerebrovascular risk. In this paper, we will first review gender differences in cardiocerebrovascular disorders, then we will discuss the existing evidence on the links between migraine and stroke and cardiovascular disease in women, and speculate on the possible physiopathological interpretations of this emerging epidemiological link. In the third part of this work, we will address the issue of the effect of sex hormones on vascular risk, and consider the evidence concerning the safety of oral contraceptives and hormone-replacement therapy. Finally, we will outline the main trends of future research and its possible clinical and therapeutic implications
Functional Characteristics of Connective Tissue Growth Factor on Vitreoretinal Cells
Authors: Kita Takeshi , Hata Yasuaki , Miura Muneki , Kawahara Shuhei , Nakao Shintaro , Ishibashi Tatsuro
Published: April 2007

Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) level is elevated in eyes with proliferative vitreoretinal diseases, such as proliferative diabetic retinopathy and proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR), as we previously reported, but its functional characteristics on vitreoretinal cells are yet to be clarified. In this study, we demonstrated a growth-promoting effect of CTGF on cultured hyalocytes and bovine retinal pigment epithelial cells (BRPEs) with the induction of p44/p42 mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphorylation and [3H]thymidine incorporation. CTGF also stimulated the synthesis of fibronectin by hyalocytes and BRPEs without significant effect on collagen gel contraction by these cells. On the other hand, CTGF had no direct effects on the proliferation, migration, or in vitro tube formation by vascular endothelial cells. Nevertheless, CTGF promoted vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) gene expression by hyalocytes and BRPEs. Although the concentrations of both CTGF and VEGF in the human vitreous samples with proliferative vitreoretinal diseases were elevated, there was no significant correlation between these concentrations. These findings indicate that CTGF appears to be involved in the formation of proliferative membranes without direct regulation of their cicatricial contraction in the pathogenesis of proliferative vitreoretinal diseases. Whereas CTGF might have no direct effects or minimal effects, if any, on retinal neovascularization, it is possible that CTGF has indirect effects by modulating the expression of VEGF.