bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patterns of Aggression and Operational Sex Ratio Within Alternative Male Phenotypes in Atlantic Salmon
Authors: Weir Laura K. , Grant James W. A. , Hutchings Jeffrey A.
Published: January 2010

The intensity of male–male aggression during mating is predicted to increase with the operational sex ratio (OSR) (the ratio of sexually active males to females). We observed aggressive behaviour in relation to OSR within alternative phenotypes (large anadromous males and small ‘sneaker’ mature male parr) of Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar, as they competed for access to anadromous females in large outdoor arenas immediately prior to spawning events as well as throughout the spawning season. Anadromous males were primarily aggressive outside of spawning events, and their aggression increased with OSR over a narrow range of 0.08–4. By contrast, mature male parr were aggressive just prior to spawning, with a decrease in aggression over a broad range of OSRs from 1 to 7.4. Similarly, literature data for three other salmonid species indicated a decrease in aggression with increasing OSRs over a range of 1–6.33. These observations suggest that there is considerable variability in competitive behaviour, even within alternative phenotypes. Because our data are derived from repeated observations on the same individuals of different genetic origin, further confirmation of these findings is desirable. Nevertheless, our study underscores the importance of measuring competitive behaviour and OSR at ecologically relevant spatial and temporal scales, both of which may differ between alternative maturation phenotypes.
One House Two Families: Petrel Squatters Get a Sniff of Low‐Cost Breeding Opportunities
Authors: Bonadonna Francesco , Mardon Jérôme
Published: January 2010

Burrowing is a widespread nesting behaviour, found in vertebrates and invertebrates. It is particularly common in small procellariiform seabirds such as blue petrels (Halobaena caerulea) and Antarctic prions (Pachyptila desolata), two closely related petrel species. However, digging a burrow is costly and alternative strategies may evolve. Accordingly, blue petrel males can adopt two alternative nesting strategies: digging a new burrow or squatting in an empty one. Importantly, a blue petrel squatter arriving at the colony to breed is more likely to find empty Antarctic prion burrows than empty blue petrel burrows, since the former species only start breeding a month later. However, squatting in a prion’s burrow is risky for blue petrels as the legitimate owner very often returns and claims the burrow back, thus ruining the squatter’s breeding attempt. We present here results of a survey of two sympatric colonies of blue petrels and Antarctic prions on Kerguelen Island. Our data show that blue petrel squatters preferentially occupy blue petrel empty burrows. To investigate potential underlying mechanisms behind this preference, we used a simple Y‐maze design to show that blue petrels can discriminate and prefer their specific odour over the prion odour. Our results confirm the existence of alternative burrowing strategies in blue petrels and suggest that squatters could use olfaction to avoid the less suitable Antarctic prion burrows.
Avoidance of Filial Cannibalism in the AmphipodGammarus pulex
Authors: Lewis Susan E. , Dick Jaimie T. A. , Lagerstrom Erin K. , Clarke Hazel C.
Published: January 2010

Adult animals that cannibalise juvenile conspecifics may gain energy but also risk filial cannibalism, that is, consumption of their own offspring. However, individuals vary in the magnitude of the costs and benefits of cannibalism depending on factors such as their current energy reserves or the probability that they have offspring in the vicinity. They may therefore also vary in the extent to which they participate in cannibalism. This study investigated whether the sex or brooding status of adult amphipods (Gammarus pulex) influenced whether they participated in cannibalism of juveniles. For females carrying embryos within their brood pouch, we also investigated two hypotheses to explain the presence or absence of cannibalistic behaviour by determining whether cannibalism was correlated with factors that might reflect energy demands (body length, brood size), or that might reflect a temporal change in cannibalistic behaviour (corresponding to stage of brood development). All reproductive classes of adults participated in some level of juvenile cannibalism, but females carrying offspring at an advanced stage of development (close to emergence from the brood pouch) consumed significantly fewer juveniles than other groups. Females thus appear to significantly reduce cannibalism of juveniles concurrent with the time when their own eggs are hatching within the brood pouch, prior to the release of their offspring. Because the experiment tested female responses to unfamiliar juveniles, this reflects a temporal change in behaviour rather than a response to phenotypic recognition cues, although additional direct recognition cannot be ruled out. Brooding females with large brood sizes or large body lengths, which might have disproportionately greater energetic demands, were not more likely to cannibalise juveniles. We also noted that juveniles that survived in trials where cannibalism occurred were significantly more likely to be found at the water surface, suggesting a possible adaptation to escape cannibalistic adults. Overall, our results provide evidence that amphipods use indirect temporal cues to avoid filial cannibalism.
Size‐Assortative Shoaling in the Guppy (Poecilia reticulata): The Role of Active Choice
Authors: Jones Katherine A. , Croft Darren P. , Ramnarine Indar W. , Godin Jean‐Guy J.
Published: January 2010

Many fish species exhibit size‐assortative shoaling, which is often thought to be driven by predation risk. Recent fieldwork has revealed that guppies (Poecilia reticulata) are more size assorted in high‐predation populations than in low‐predation ones. However, size assortment does nonetheless occur in some low‐predation populations, suggesting that predation is unlikely the sole driving force behind size‐assortment. Here, we investigated in the laboratory the potential role of active choice in size‐assortative shoaling in wild‐caught female guppies originating from two populations of the same river system in Trinidad. Small or large focal females from each population were offered a binary choice of shoaling with either four small female conspecifics or four large ones. Observed shoaling preferences depended on the body size of the focal fish, suggesting phenotype‐mediated conflict over group composition. Large focal fish preferred to shoal with the size‐matched stimulus shoal of large fish. In contrast, small focal fish did not shoal assortatively but also preferred to shoal with larger females. Our results suggest that size‐assortative shoaling in female guppies is likely to be due to factors other than active choice, such as habitat segregation and sexual harassment.
Impact of health literacy and patient trust on glycemic control in an urban USA population
Authors: Mancuso Josephine M.
Published: January 2010

Diabetes, with its consequences of premature death, complications, and economic costs, is a precursor to a public health crisis that is expected to worsen over the next several decades. The improvement of diabetes outcomes, specifically glycemic control as measured by glycosylated hemoglobin concentration (HbA1c), can impact this critical situation. A quantitative study was conducted that examined health literacy and patient trust as predictors of glycemic control. The related factors of demographics, socioeconomic status, diabetes knowledge, self‐care activities, and depression were also considered. Implementing a cross‐sectional, predictive design, a convenience sample of 102 patients with diabetes was recruited from two urban primary care clinics in the USA. A simultaneous multiple regression was conducted. The regression analysis was significant, with patient trust and depression accounting for 28.5% of the variance in HbA1c. There was a significant positive relationship between socioeconomic status and health literacy and between diabetes knowledge and health literacy. The results support promotion of the patient–provider relationship, depression screening among individuals with diabetes, and exploration of new strategies for diabetes education. Future research is needed to advance the framework, ascertain which factors engender patient trust, and determine the role of health literacy in glycemic control.
Competence assessment of nursing graduates of Jordanian universities
Authors: Safadi Reema , Jaradeh Malak , Bandak Amal , Froelicher Erika
Published: January 2010

This cross‐sectional survey assessed the level of competence of nursing graduates of Jordanian universities (2001–2004 cohorts) in relation to the type of university, sex, hospital type, and working area. A convenience sample (n = 258) of full‐time nurses (6 months–4 years' experience) was selected from public, private, and teaching hospitals. A specifically designed tool with a rating scale of 1–5 was used to evaluate the nurses' competence in five nursing competencies (management, professionalism, problem‐solving, nursing process, and knowledge of basic skills). The findings showed a satisfactory competency level with no significant differences related to the type of university or sex. General ward nurses scored significantly better than those in intensive care units in relation to management, professionalism, and nursing process, while the teaching hospital nurses showed significantly better performance in professionalism and management skills than did the nurses in the other two sectors. We recommend that nurse recruitment policies should consider individual competencies rather than innate characteristics in their selection of employees.
Obesity and mobility disability in the older adult
Authors: Vincent H. K. , Vincent K. R. , Lamb K. M.
Published: January 2010

Mobility disability is becoming prevalent in the obese older population (≥60 years of age). We included a total of 13 cross‐sectional and 15 longitudinal studies based on actual physical assessments of mobility in the obese older population in this review. We systematically examined existing evidence of which adiposity estimate best predicted mobility disability. Cross‐sectional studies (82–4000 participants) showed poorer lower extremity mobility with increasing obesity severity in both men and women. All longitudinal studies (1–22 years) except for one, reported relationships between adiposity and declining mobility. While different physical tests made interpretation challenging, a consistent finding was that walking, stair climbing and chair rise ability were compromised with obesity, especially if the body mass index (BMI) exceeded 35 kg m−2. More studies found that obese women were at an increased risk for mobility impairment than men. Existing evidence suggests that BMI and waist circumference are emerging as the more consistent predictors of the onset or worsening of mobility disability. Limited interventional evidence shows that weight loss is related with increased mobility and lower extremity function. Additional longitudinal studies are warranted that address overall body composition fat and muscle mass or change on future disability.
Local Composite Quantile Regression Smoothing: An Efficient and Safe Alternative to Local Polynomial Regression
Authors: Kai Bo , Li Runze , Zou Hui
Published: January 2010

Local polynomial regression is a useful non-parametric regression tool to explore fine data structures and has been widely used in practice. We propose a new non-parametric regression technique called local composite quantile regression smoothing to improve local polynomial regression further. Sampling properties of the estimation procedure proposed are studied. We derive the asymptotic bias, variance and normality of the estimate proposed. The asymptotic relative efficiency of the estimate with respect to local polynomial regression is investigated. It is shown that the estimate can be much more efficient than the local polynomial regression estimate for various non-normal errors, while being almost as efficient as the local polynomial regression estimate for normal errors. Simulation is conducted to examine the performance of the estimates proposed. The simulation results are consistent with our theoretical findings. A real data example is used to illustrate the method proposed.
The Political Consequences of the Crash
Authors: Gamble Andrew
Published: January 2010

The financial crash of 2008 precipitated a major recession. It shattered the financial growth model that had dominated the previous twenty years and plunged the international economy into a period of economic and political restructuring of uncertain duration. The immediate origins of the crash lay in the lending practices associated with the sub-prime mortgages in the United States which produced the credit crunch in 2007, but the wider causes were the unbalanced character of growth in the international economy and the particular role played by finance. The crisis has been explained in a number of different ways, focusing on the behaviour of the financial markets, the institutional and policy conditions that made the boom possible and then undermined it, longer-term economic and policy cycles and the nature of uncertainty and risk in complex social systems. The political impact of the crash and the recession has not been uniform; it has been highly uneven, depending on the position of particular states in the international economy. The rapid interventions by governments to stave off financial collapse at the end of 2008 were successful, but at the cost of creating serious problems of adjustment for the future. The political debate around what were the causes, who should be blamed and what should be done is only just beginning, and the way this crisis comes to be understood will play a major part in determining how it is eventually resolved and how far-reaching will be the changes to the international economy and to domestic politics.
The Banking Crisis: A Rational Interpretation
Authors: Minford Patrick
Published: January 2010

Modern macroeconomic models have been widely criticised as relying too much on rationality and market efficiency. However, their predictions about this crisis are being borne out by events. ‘Crashes’ are an integral part of an ‘efficient market’ capitalism and are brought on by swings in the news about productivity growth; this time nearly two decades of strong computer-based productivity growth were brought to a crashing halt by raw material shortages. This presages a slow recovery until innovation in material use frees growth up again as it did in the 1990s after the shortages of the 1970s.
Interictal dysphoric disorder and periictal dysphoric symptoms in patients with epilepsy
Authors: Mula Marco , Jauch Regina , Cavanna Andrea , Gaus Verena , Kretz Rebekka , Collimedaglia Laura , Barbagli Davide , Cantello Roberto , Monaco Francesco , Schmitz Bettina
Published: January 2010

Purpose:  The issue of phenomenology of mood disorders in epilepsy still remains controversial. It has been suggested that a subgroup of patients may develop an affective syndrome also known as interictal dysphoric disorder (IDD). However, the number of behavioral changes that may occur around the ictus needs to be taken into account for an accurate distinction between “true” psychiatric phenomenology and periictal phenomena. This study aimed at identifying clinical correlates of the IDD, with special attention to the relationship between symptoms and seizures.

Methods:  A sample of 142 consecutive adult outpatients with epilepsy were assessed using the Interictal Dysphoric Disorder Inventory (IDDI), a 38‐item, self‐report questionnaire specifically developed to evaluate presence and severity of IDD symptoms as well as their habitual association with seizures (coded as before, after, during, or when seizure‐free) and their duration.

Results:  IDD was diagnosed in 31 subjects but symptoms showed a clear‐cut relationship with epileptic seizures in 54.8% of cases, leading to an operative distinction between true IDD and periictal dysphoric symptoms (PDS). There was no significant difference among patients with IDD, PDS, or those without psychopathology. In the IDD group, symptoms were chronic and unremitting in one‐third of cases, with labile affective symptoms being correlated with age at onset of seizures (rho = −0.612, p = 0.020) and duration of the epilepsy (rho = 0.833, p < 0.001).

Discussion:  An operative distinction between IDD and PDS bears the opportunity to identify different clinical endophenotypes that may have different prognoses and require different treatment strategies.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Effects of Cyclic Versus Sustained Estrogen Administration on Peripheral Immune Functions in Ovariectomized Mice
Authors: Li Jing , McMurray Robert W.
Published: January 2010

Citation Li J, McMurray RW. Effects of cyclic versus sustained estrogen administration on peripheral immune functions in ovariectomized mice. Am J Reprod Immunol 2010; 63: 274–281

Problem  Estrogens have multiple influences on immune functions. We aimed to compare the effects of cyclic versus sustained estrogen treatments under the same accumulated dose on peripheral immune functions in ovariectomized mice.

Method of study  Ovariectomized adult Balb/c mice were treated with estradiol (E2) by s.c. injection once every 4 days (total 44.8 μg) or by pellet implantation (total 44.2 μg). After 6 weeks of treatment, all animals were immunized with DNP‐KLH. Peripheral immune functions were assessed 10 days later.

Results  Both cyclic and sustained E2 treatments significantly reduced the percentage of splenic B220+sIgM+ cells, enhanced IFN‐γ production and suppressed IL‐6 secretion from Con A‐stimulated splenocytes, and increased serum anti‐DNP antibody levels. No differences were found in the above responses or in uterine weight gain between the two regimens of E2 administration.

Conclusion  There are no differential effects on peripheral immune functions between cyclic and sustained estrogen administration under the same total dose.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Suppression of Natural Killer Cell Cytotoxicity in Postpartum Women
Authors: Groer Maureen , El‐Badri Nagwa , Djeu Julie , Harrington Monalisa , Van Eepoel Jeanne
Published: January 2010

Citation Groer M, El‐Badri N, Djeu J, Harrington M, Van Eepoel J. Suppression of natural killer cell cytotoxicity in postpartum women. Am J Reprod Immunol 2010; 63: 209–213

Problem  Natural Killer (NK) cell numbers and cytotoxicity are suppressed during pregnancy. Little is known about postpartum NK number and function.

Method of study  Postpartum women (n = 39) were studied at one week and then monthly over the first six postpartum months. The standard natural killer cell cytotoxicity assay (NKCA) was performed. This is a Cr51 release assay from K562 cells cultured with peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs).

Results  Data indicate suppression of NK cytotoxicity in postpartum women. Cytotoxicity at each effector:target (E:T) ratio showed a drop from 1 week postpartum, reaching a nadir at around 2 months, and a trend towards recovery of cytotoxicity from 3 to 6 months. Lytic units (LUs) from pre‐incubated cells from postpartum women were lower than age‐matched, non‐pregnant, non‐postpartum controls through the fifth postpartum month.

Conclusion  These data suggest that the postpartum period, like pregnancy, is characterized by decreased NK cytotoxicity activity. This suppressed NK cytotoxic effect may result as a response to interaction with tolerized fetal microchimeric cells accumulated during pregnancy in maternal blood and tissues.
Pelvic Floor Muscle Assessment Outcomes in Women With and Without Provoked Vestibulodynia and the Impact of a Physical Therapy Program
Authors: Gentilcore-Saulnier Evelyne , McLean Linda , Goldfinger Corrie , Pukall Caroline F. , Chamberlain Susan
Published: January 2010

Introduction

Physical therapy (PT) may reduce the pain associated with provoked vestibulodynia (PVD) based on previous findings that pelvic floor muscle dysfunction (PFMD) is associated with PVD symptoms.

Aims

The goals of this study were: (i) to determine whether women with and without PVD differ on measures of pelvic floor muscle (PFM) behavior; and (ii) to assess the impact of PT treatment for women with PVD on these measures.

Methods

Eleven women with PVD and 11 control women completed an assessment evaluating PFM behavior using surface electromyography (SEMG) recordings and a digital intravaginal assessment. Women with PVD repeated the assessment after they had undergone eight PT treatment sessions of manual therapy, biofeedback, electrical stimulation, dilator insertions, and home exercises.

Main Outcome Measures

Superficial and deep PFM SEMG tonic activity and phasic activity in response to a painful pressure stimulus, PFM digital assessment variables (tone, flexibility, relaxation capacity, and strength).

Results

At pretreatment, women with PVD had higher tonic SEMG activity in their superficial PFMs compared with the control group, whereas no differences were found in the deep PFMs. Both groups demonstrated contractile responses to the painful pressure stimulus that were significantly higher in the superficial as compared with the deep PFMs, with the responses in the PVD group being higher than those in control women. Women with PVD had higher PFM tone, decreased PFM flexibility and lower PFM relaxation capacity compared with control women. Posttreatment improvements included less PFM responsiveness to pain, less PFM tone, improved vaginal flexibility, and improved PFM relaxation capacity, such that women with PVD no longer differed from controls on these measures.

Conclusion

Women with PVD demonstrated altered PFM behavior when compared with controls, providing empirical evidence of PFMD, especially at the superficial layer. A PT rehabilitation program specifically targeting PFMD normalized PFM behavior in women with PVD.
Abortions and Contraception Use Among Czech and Romanian Women: Comparison of Representative National Studies
Authors: Hollá Kateřina , Weiss Petr , Unzeitig Vít , Cibula David
Published: January 2010

Introduction

This article presents the results of representative national studies comparing the behavior and attitudes of Czech and Romanian women regarding abortion and contraception use.

Aim

Describe the attitudes to abortion and incidence of abortion in female population of these countries.

Methods

Independently and anonymously conducted questionnaire with 1,011 Czech and 1,001 Romanian women, with the participants’ age from 15 to 50 years. The sample represented both Czech and Romanian female populations with respect to age, education, and the size of their place of residence.

Main Outcome Measures

Questionnaire studies awareness, attitudes, and behavior related to the area of sexual life, contraception, and family planning.

Results

Based on the acquired information, it can be postulated that Romanian women, despite having a less liberal opinion on abortions than their Czech peers, undergo abortion more often than Czech women (Romanian 28%, Czech 16%), are less informed about potential side effects, and more often use less reliable methods of contraception (the so-called “natural contraception”—vs. hormonal contraception, which is the method of choice of Czech women).

Conclusion

These results indicate that despite more liberal attitudes toward abortion, Czech women have less frequent incidence of abortion than Romanian women and they have more relevant information about contraception and their sexual behavior is more conscious and responsible.
Bulbocavernosus Reflex to Stimulation of Prostatic Urethra in Patients with Lifelong Premature Ejaculation
Authors: Zhou Changkuo , Jiang Xianzhou , Xu Zhishun , Guo Lihua , Chen Jing , Wang Hongqiang , Zhang Dongqing , Shi Benkang
Published: January 2010

Introduction

Lifelong premature ejaculation (LPE) is a prevalent sexual dysfunction among men, while its precise pathologic mechanisms have remained poorly understood.

Aim

In our study, the correlation between excitability of bulbocavernosus reflex (BCR) to stimulation of the prostatic urethra and LPE was studied.

Methods

Twenty normal potent male volunteers and 42 patients with LPE were studied by inserting a specially designed Foley catheter with two electrodes mounted on its distal surface (intraurethral catheter electrode) into bladder to evoke the BCR to stimulation of prostatic urethra. Also, sensitivity of glans penis to electrical stimulation was detected by two surface electrodes.

Main Outcome Measures

Sensory thresholds of BCR to stimulation of prostatic urethra, thresholds to evoke stable BCR, latencies of BCR, and sensory thresholds of glans penis to electrical stimulation.

Results

The mean sensory thresholds of BCR to stimulation of prostatic urethra, thresholds to evoke stable BCR, latencies of BCR, and sensory thresholds of glans penis were 12.38 ± 3.71 mA (0.2 ms in duration,1 Hz), 23.81 ± 5.55 mA (0.2 ms, 1 Hz), 70.48 ± 6.33 ms, and 11.89 ± 2.26 mA (0.04 ms in duration,3 Hz) in the patients with LPE, respectively, and were 18.20 ± 2.68 mA (0.2 ms, 1 Hz), 34.76 ± 4.15 mA (0.2 ms, 1 Hz), 71.20 ± 5.77 ms, and 14.16 ± 1.94 mA (0.04 ms, 3 Hz) in the normal potent men, respectively (mean ± SD). Statistically significant differences were seen regarding the sensory thresholds of BCR to stimulation of prostatic urethra, the thresholds to evoke stable BCR and the sensory thresholds of glans penis between the two groups (P <0.001). No statistically significant differences were seen regarding the latencies of BCR between the two groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Patients with LPE might have hyperexcitable BCR to stimulation of prostatic urethra, which is probably one of the important factors for its etiology.
Impact of Nonorganic Erectile Dysfunction on Spouses: A Study from India
Authors: Avasthi Ajit , Grover Sandeep , Kaur Rajinder , Prakash Om , Kulhara P.
Published: January 2010

Introduction

The overall outcome of men with erectile dysfunction (ED) depends a lot on participation in treatment of their partners/spouses. However, psychosexual functioning of partners/spouses has received scant attention.

Aim

To study the psychosexual functioning of spouses of men with nonorganic ED in terms of their sexual satisfaction, psychological problems, marital adjustment, quality of life, and level of dysfunction.

Main Outcome Measures

The main outcome measures for the partners of men with ED were symptom questionnaire, marital questionnaire (KDS-15 marital questionnaire), sexuality scale, quality of life enjoyment and satisfaction questionnaire, dyadic adjustment scale, and dysfunction analysis questionnaire.

Method

Spouses of men with ED (n=50) and spouses of men without any psychosexual dysfunction (n=50) were compared for sexual and marital function, quality of life, and dyadic adjustment. The psychological impact was assessed by symptom questionnaire.

Results

Spouses of men with ED have significantly lower levels of marital and sexual satisfaction and higher levels of psychiatric symptoms than controls. Furthermore, the spouses of men with nonorganic ED also report poor quality of life in most domains of life and had higher level of dysfunction.

Conclusion

Our findings support the Western data with regard to the psychosexual functioning of spouses/partners of men with ED and suggest that spouses/partners of men with ED should also be assessed thoroughly.
Characterization of VEGF and Angiopoietins Expression in Human Corpus Cavernosum during Aging
Authors: Tomada Nuno , Tomada Inês , Cruz Francisco , Vendeira Pedro , Neves Delminda
Published: January 2010

Introduction and Objectives

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a highly prevalent and age-related disease, caused by endothelial dysfunction and impaired cavernous angiogenesis. However, cellular and molecular changes involved in erectile pathophysiology in aging male remain to be elucidated.

Aim

To characterize the vascular organization, concomitantly with analysis of the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), Angiopoietin 1 (Ang1) and Angiopoietin 2 (Ang2) in young and aged human corpus cavernosum.

Methods

Human penile fragments were removed from patients submitted to penile deviation surgery (11 cases; 58–70 years) and from potential organ donors (four cases; 18–28 years) without ED or risk factors for ED. Smooth muscle and connective tissue were assessed by Masson’s trichrome staining and computer-assisted histomorphometry. Dual immunostaining for specific markers of endothelium (von Willebrand factor) and smooth muscle cell (alpha-actin), VEGF, Ang1 and Ang2 was assayed by fluorescence microscopy. Semi-quantification of expression of angiogenic factors was performed by Western blotting.

Main Outcome Measures

Expression of VEGF and Angiopoietins in human corpus cavernosum, using a combination of histologic stainings, and molecular biology tools in order to achieve a better understanding of cavernosal tissue remodeling with aging.

Results

Aged human corpus cavernosum presented wider sinusoidal spaces, loss of muscle cell bundles, and increased connective tissue content. Ang1 was scarcely expressed in small clusters in smooth muscle cell cytoplasm with identical localization in both studied groups. VEGF expression was abundant in smooth muscle cell and its expression markedly decreased in aged tissue, contrasting with the expression of angiopoietins that increased in the aged corpus cavernosum.

Conclusions

Immunoflourescent studies of cellular markers and growth factors help clarifying vascular organization and angiogenesis mechanisms in erectile tissue. Our findings demonstrate that the organization pattern of vascular endothelium and smooth muscle components of cavernosal tissue modifies during aging. Ang1 and Ang2 upregulation in human-aged penile tissue suggest a VEGF-independent vascular remodeling mechanism.
Preoperative Clinical and Diagnostic Characteristics of Patients Who Require Delayed IPP after Primary Peyronies Repair
Authors: Alphs Hannah H. , Navai Neema , Köhler Tobias S. , McVary Kevin T.
Published: January 2010

Introduction

Penile vascular abnormalities occur in a high proportion of patients with Peyronie’s disease (PD). Penile duplex ultrasonography (PDU) and dynamic infusion cavernosometry and cavernosography (DICC) are tools that can be used to help tailor individualized treatment for patients undergoing surgical intervention for their PD. However, precisely which parameters can be used to predict those patients with PD at risk for developing erectile dysfunction (ED) after intervention without inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) has not been previously elucidated.

Aim

To evaluate preoperative vascular parameters that predispose PD patients for developing ED after intervention without IPP.

Methods

Twenty-six patients receiving surgical intervention for their PD at a single center were retrospectively identified. Of these, 11 (42.3%) opted for primary repair without placement of an IPP. Three (27.2%) of these 11 patients went on to develop ED postoperatively.

Main Outcome Measures

We compared various demographic, PDU, and DICC parameters between patients who did and did not fail primary repair of their PD.

Results

Mean age and follow-up of patients who went on to develop ED after repair of PD without IPP were not significantly different (P <0.05). Resistive index (RI) and end diastolic volume were significantly different between these two groups (P <0.05), while peak systolic volume, flow to maintain, and pressure decay were not significantly different. An RI cutoff of <0.80 was found to identify all patients who would later develop ED and fail primary repair without IPP.

Conclusions

Penile vascular assessment can aid in counseling patients about their risk of developing delayed ED after primary repair of PD. In our cohort of patients, PDU provided preoperative risk stratification for postoperative erectile dysfunction in men undergoing Peyronie’s repair without IPP. We propose the prospective study of an RI cutoff to identify patients at risk of failing primary PD repair without IPP.
PCOS and Urethrovaginal Space: 3-D Volumetric and Vascular Analysis
Authors: Battaglia Cesare , Nappi Rossella Elena , Mancini Fulvia , Alvisi Stefania , Del Forno Simona , Battaglia Bruno , Venturoli Stefano
Published: January 2010

Introduction

The vaginal orgasm seems to be evocated by the stimulation of the G-spot: a highly sensitive area on the anterior wall of the human vagina. However, the existence of such a spot is controversial.

Aim

To evaluate, by the use of three-dimensional (3-D) ultrasonography, the anatomic structures of the urethrovaginal space both in polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) patients and eumenorrheic non-hirsute controls.

Methods

Twenty-three (Group I) PCOS patients and 25 eumenorrheic young women (Group II) were submitted to two-dimensional (2-D) and 3-D ultrasonography and color Doppler analysis of the urethrovaginal space and of the clitoris.

Main Outcome Measures

2-D ultrasonographic evaluation of the ovaries and of the urethrovaginal space; color Doppler evaluation of the ovarian stromal arteries, urethrovaginal main feeding artery, and dorsal clitoral arteries; 3-D volume calculation of the urethrovaginal space, and 3-D power Doppler analysis of the vascularization index; flow index; and vascularization flow index; hormonal evaluation.

Results

The vaginal orgasm was present in 13/23 (56%) patients in PCOS Group and in 13/25 (52%) in the controls. The 3-D reconstruction of the urethrovaginal space demonstrated a gland-like aspect with small feeding vessels: “female prostate.” The 3-D mean volume of the “female prostate” was significantly higher in Group I (0.48 ± 0.21 mL) than in Group II (0.39 ± 0.19 mL; P = 0.044). The Virtual Organ Computer-aided AnaLys (VOCAL) built mean volume of the “female prostate” was positively correlated with the time since intercourse (r = 0.486; P = 0.032), with the total length of the urethrovaginal space (r = 0.616; P = 0.025) and with the testosterone (r = 0.424; P = 0.048) circulating values.

Conclusions

The presence of the G-spot and its role in vaginal orgasm remains controversial. In Italians, and normal weight PCOS patients the hyperandrogenism seems to result in ovarian stromal and “female prostate” hyperplasia.
Psychological Determinants of Erectile Dysfunction: Testing a Cognitive–Emotional Model
Authors: Nobre Pedro J.
Published: January 2010

Introduction

Recent studies have shown the impact of sexual dysfunctional beliefs, negative cognitive schemas, negative automatic thoughts, and depressed affect on male erectile dysfunction. Despite this fact, there are only few conceptual models that try to integrate these findings, and more importantly, there is a lack of studies that test the validity of those conceptual models.

Aim

The aim of the present article was to test a cognitive–emotional model for erectile dysfunction. Taking previous research findings into account, we developed a cognitive–emotional model for erectile disorder (ED) and used path analysis to test it.

Methods

A total of 352 men (303 participants from the general population and 49 participants with a DSM-IV diagnosis of sexual dysfunction) answered a set of questionnaires assessing cognitive and emotional variables.

Main Outcome Measures

Erectile Function measured by the EF subscale of the International Index of Erectile Function, cognitive schemas measured by the Questionnaire of Cognitive Schema Activation in Sexual Context, sexual beliefs measured by the Sexual Dysfunctional Beliefs Questionnaire, thoughts and emotions measured by the Sexual Modes Questionnaire.

Results

The effects of the main proposed direct predictors explained 55% of the erectile function variance (R=0.74). Most remaining direct effects proposed in the model were also statistically significant. The analysis of the absolute residuals showed that most of the implied correlations were close to the observed zero order correlations, indicated the adjustment of the model to the observed data.

Conclusions

These findings support the role played by cognitive and emotional factors on the predisposition and maintenance of male erectile dysfunction and suggest important implications for assessment and treatment of ED.
Furthering the Understanding of Parent–Child Relationships: A Nursing Scholarship Review Series. Part 5: Parent–Adolescent and Teen Parent–Child Relationships
Authors: Riesch Susan K. , Anderson Lori S. , Pridham Karen A. , Lutz Kristin F. , Becker Patricia T.
Published: January 2010

PURPOSE. The purpose of this paper is to examine nursing's contribution to understanding the parent–adolescent and the teen parent–child relationships.

CONCLUSION. Relationships between parents and adolescents may reflect turmoil and affect adolescents' health and development. The social and developmental contexts for teen parenting are powerful and may need strengthening. Several interventions to help teen mothers interact sensitively with their infants have been developed and tested.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS. Nurse researchers have begun to provide evidence for practitioners to use in caring for families of adolescents and teen parents to acquire interaction skills that, in turn, may promote optimal health and development of the child.
Microwave‐Assisted Autohydrolysis of Prunus mume Stone for Extraction of Polysaccharides and Phenolic Compounds
Authors: Tsubaki S. , Ozaki Y. , Azuma J.
Published: January 2010

ABSTRACT:  Stone of Prunus mume (P. mume) is a by‐product of pickled P. mume industry. Stones of native and pickled P. mume, mainly composed of holocellulose (83.8 ± 1.8% and 65.1 ± 0.3%, respectively) and acid‐insoluble lignin (25.3 ± 2.2% and 30.6 ± 0.9%, respectively), were autohydrolyzed by microwave heating to extract polysaccharides and phenolic compounds. By heating at 200 to 230 °C, 48.0% to 60.8% of polysaccharide and 84.1% to 97.9% of phenolic compound were extracted in water along with partial degradation of hemicelluloses and lignin. The extracted liquors showed antioxidant activity against hydroxyl radical and DPPH radical originated from phenolic compounds. The pickled P. mume stone showed higher autohydrolyzability and microwave absorption capacity than the native stone due to absorbed salts and acids during pickling in fruit juice of P. mume with external addition of sodium chloride. Pickling process in salty and weak acidic juice seemed to be a kind of pretreatment for softening the stones prior to autohydrolysis induced by microwave heating.
Consumer Acceptance of Ozone‐Treated Whole Shell Eggs
Authors: Kamotani Setsuko , Hooker Neal , Smith Stephanie , Lee Ken
Published: January 2010

ABSTRACT:  Ozone‐based processing is a novel technology with potentially fewer adverse effects than in‐shell thermal pasteurization of eggs. There are no consumer acceptance studies published on ozone‐treated eggs. This study examines consumers’ ability to detect changes between ozone‐treated, thermal‐treated, and fresh untreated eggs. Consumers (n = 111) evaluated visual attributes of uncooked eggs and a separate group of consumers (n = 132) evaluated acceptability of cooked eggs. Consumers evaluated attribute intensity of the eggs. The yolks and albumens of the thermal‐treated and ozone‐treated eggs were perceived to be significantly cloudier than the untreated control, while the ozone‐treated eggs were more similar to control (P < 0.05). The yolks of ozone‐treated eggs were perceived to have significantly lower heights and greater spreads than the others (P < 0.05). Despite these perceptions, overall visual appeal of ozone‐treated eggs was not significantly different from control eggs. A separate set of consumers used hedonic scales to evaluate overall liking, appearance, aroma, flavor, and texture of cooked eggs. Just‐about‐right (JAR) scales were used to rate the color, moistness, and texture. There were no differences on any attribute scores between the treatments, except thermal‐treated and ozone‐treated were perceived as less moist than the control. There were no adverse effects on consumer acceptance of eggs, treated with ozone, with acceptance the same as an untreated control. These findings are useful as ozone pasteurization can enhance the safety of fresh shell eggs to meet the goals of the U.S. Egg Safety Action Plan.

Practical Application: The U.S. Egg Safety Action Plan requires all shell eggs to be pasteurized to prevent foodborne illness. Heat pasteurization partially cooks the egg, so an alternative process uses ozone with less heat. This study shows the ozone pasteurization has no detectable sensory defects.
Effect of Fish and Oil Nature on Frying Process and Nutritional Product Quality
Authors: Ansorena Diana , Guembe Ainhoa , Mendizábal Tatiana , Astiasarán Iciar
Published: January 2010

ABSTRACT:  The modifications on a lean fish (cod—Gadus morhua) and a fatty fish (farmed salmon—Salmo salar) after the application of pan‐frying using 2 types of oil with different lipid profile (extra virgin olive oil and sunflower oil) was the aim of this study. Fat content and total energetic value increased significantly after the frying process only in the lean fish, without relevant changes in the fatty fish. Extra virgin olive oil led to a higher fat absorption rate than sunflower oil in both fish. Frying hardly affected the lipid profile of farmed salmon regardless the oil used, however it drastically changed in fried cod compared to raw cod. Omega‐6/omega‐3 ratio increased from 0.08 in raw cod to 1.01 and 6.63 in fried cod with olive oil and sunflower oil, respectively. In farmed salmon, the omega‐6/omega‐3 ratio was 0.38 (raw), and 0.39 to 0.58 in fried salmon. The amount of EPA + DHA slightly decreased with frying in salmon, and increased in cod. The type of oil has more influence in the nutritional fish quality for the lean fish compared to that of the fatty fish. The use of extra virgin olive oil was efficient to avoid a significant increase of the lipid oxidation intensity during frying in cod but not in salmon.

Practical Application: Food modifies its composition and nutritional value with the application of cooking technologies. As most food table composition tables are based on raw food products, this article contributes with interesting data on pan‐fried fish composition, which may improve the approach to achieve a real intake of healthy nutrients as omega 3 fatty acids.
Reductive dechlorination of 2‐chlorophenol by Anaeromyxobacter dehalogenans with an electrode serving as the electron donor
Authors: Strycharz Sarah M. , Gannon Sarah M. , Boles Amber R. , Franks Ashley E. , Nevin Kelly P. , Lovley Derek R.
Published: January 2010

Electrodes poised at potentials low enough to serve as an electron donor for microbial respiration, but high enough to avoid the production of hydrogen, have been proposed as an alternative to the use of soluble electron donors for stimulating the bioremediation of chlorinated contaminants and/or metals. However, this form of respiration using pure cultures of microorganisms has only been reported in Geobacter species. To further evaluate this bioremediation strategy studies were conducted with Anaeromyxobacter dehalogenans, which has previously been reported to reductively dechlorinate 2‐chlorophenol to phenol with acetate as the electron donor. Anaeromyxobacter dehalogenans could oxidize acetate with electron transfer to a graphite electrode poised at a positive potential, demonstrating its ability to directly exchange electrons with electrodes. Anaeromyxobacter dehalogenans attached to electrodes poised at −300 mV versus standard hydrogen electrode reductively dechlorinated 2‐chlorophenol to phenol. There was no dechlorination in the absence of A. dehalogenans and electrode‐driven dechlorination stopped when the supply of electrons to the electrode was disrupted. The findings that microorganisms other than Geobacter species can accept electrons from electrodes for anaerobic respiration and that chlorinated aromatic compounds can be dechlorinated in this manner suggest that there may be substantial potential for treating a diversity of contaminants with microbe–electrode interactions.
Temperature affects Vibrio cholerae O1 El Tor persistence in the aquatic environment via an enhanced expression of GbpA and MSHA adhesins
Authors: Stauder Monica , Vezzulli Luigi , Pezzati Elisabetta , Repetto Barbara , Pruzzo Carla
Published: January 2010

Vibrio cholerae O1 El Tor attachment to chitin and biofilm formation on polyvinylchloride surfaces via the N‐acetylglucosamine‐binding protein A (GbpA) and the mannose‐sensitive haemagglutinin (MSHA) were investigated under different temperature and salinity conditions simulating those found in the aquatic environment. In vitro tests showed that mshA and gbpA defective V. cholerae N16961 strains displayed a significant reduction (P < 0.05) in attachment to chitin in comparison with the parent in all the environmental conditions tested. The lack of mshA, but not gbpA, resulted in a significant decrease (P < 0.05) of V. cholerae N16961 strain ability to form biofilm. Wild‐type attachment to chitin and biofilm formation increased from 15°C to 25°C as did gbpA and mshA expression. In situ data obtained analysing zooplankton and water samples collected in coastal waters of NW Mediterranean Sea over an annual cycle showed that the percentage of plankton‐associated V. cholerae was positive correlated with sea surface temperature, and increased dramatically at temperature values above 22°C. It is suggested that temperature plays a major role in affecting persistence of V. cholerae in the aquatic environment by promoting colonization of environmental surfaces, via an enhanced expression of both mshA and gbpA.
Quorum sensing signal production and inhibition by coral‐associated vibrios
Authors: Tait Karen , Hutchison Zoe , Thompson Fabiano L. , Munn Colin B.
Published: January 2010

Corals are inhabited by complex communities of microbes that affect their growth and survival. Several studies suggest that coral disease may be attributed to the success of vibrios in out‐competing other bacteria in the mucus and tissues of corals. Vibrios utilize a variety of quorum sensing (QS) signal molecules to regulate processes that could be used to colonize corals during adverse environmental conditions. We therefore screened a range ofVibriosisolated from a variety of healthy and diseased corals, for the production of the QS signal molecules,N‐acylhomoserine lactones (AHLs) and the AI‐2 (autoinducer‐2) small furanone signal molecule. All 29 strains examined activated the AI‐2 biosensor, but only 17 activated an AHL biosensor. Using reverse phase thin‐layer chromatography, we showed that the effect of temperature on AHL production varied considerably among the isolates. For the first time, the QS inhibition byVibrio harveyiis reported. This only occurred at higher temperatures and does not appear to be due to degradation of AHLs. The large diversity of vibrios and the different effects of temperature on signal production may partly explain the complexity of coral‐associated community changes in response to environmental factors.