bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Preoperative Erectile Function is an Independent Predictor for Decision to Spare Cavernous Nerves During Radical Prostatectomy
Authors: Stember Doron S. , Nelson Christian J. , Mulhall John P. 
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Cavernous nerve sparing (NS) is critical for recovery of erectile function (EF) as well as erectile tissue preservation following radical prostatectomy (RP). Clinical experience suggests that surgeons may opt for non-NS RP in patients with impaired baseline EF.

Aim
This study was performed to define if baseline EF is an independent predictor of NS status during RP.

Methods
A total of 2,323 mean (mean age 59 ± 7 years) who underwent RP at a tertiary referral academic medical center were retrospectively evaluated. Patients who underwent preoperative radiation therapy or androgen deprivation treatment were excluded.

Main Outcome Measures
Preoperative parameters evaluated included biopsy pathological characteristics, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level, patient age, and EF. Baseline EF was graded on a validated five-point patient reported scale. NSS was graded intraoperatively by the surgeon, using a four-point NS score assigned to each nerve where 1 = fully preserved, 2 = partially preserved, 3 = minimally preserved, and 4 = resected. NS surgery was defined as NSS of 1 or 2 on both sides, and nerve resection surgery was defined as NSS of 3 or greater on both sides.

Results
On univariate analysis, factors related to nerve resection surgery included (all P &lt; 0.01): increasing age (r = 0.16), Gleason score (r = 0.19), EF score (r = 0.21), percentage biopsy cores positive (r = 0.11), higher preoperative PSA (relative risk [RR] 1.72, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.23–2.40), and clinical stage ≥T2 (RR 2.17, 95% CI 1.68–2.78). On multivariable analysis, factors independently predicting for non-NS surgery included (all P &lt; 0.01): baseline EF (odds ratio [OR] 1.50, 95% CI 1.33–1.68), biopsy Gleason sum (OR 1.95, 95% CI 1.65–2.36), clinical T stage ≥T2 (OR 1.59, 95% CI 1.15–2.20), patient age (OR 1.07, 95% CI 1.04–1.09), and percentage of biopsy cores positive (OR 1.01, 95% CI 1.00–1.02).

Conclusions
While unfavorable clinical and prostate biopsy characteristics predict less NS, we have shown that poorer baseline EF also independently predicts for nerve resection RP. For every point increase in EF score (that is, worsening EF) the odds of not receiving NS during surgery increase by a factor of 1.5. Although NS is not associated with worse cancer outcomes in appropriately selected patients, failure to spare nerves is associated with poor post-operative EF, urinary continence, and increased severity of cavernous venous leak. Patient anxiety related to cancer diagnosis and impending treatment may lead to falsely-worsened apparent EF when recent erections are assessed during a pre-operative planning visit. For these reasons prostatectomists should consider NS based solely on factors other than patient's baseline EF, even when it is impaired.
The Development and Validation of a Brief Quality of Sexual Experience (QSE) Scale: Results from a Nationally Representative Sample of Men and Women in the United States
Authors: Sanders Stephanie A. , Herbenick Debby , Reece Michael , Schick Vanessa , Mullinax Margo , Dodge Brian , Fortenberry J. Dennis 
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Much scientific research focuses on assessing and understanding individuals' perceptions of sexual pleasure, enjoyment and satisfaction. Many existing measures of pleasure and satisfaction provide valuable information but are limited in their ability to assess event-level quality.

Aims
To develop a scale for measuring the event-level quality of a sexual experience that could be used regardless of the age, gender, sexual orientation, and relationship status of the individual and across sexual activity types.

Methods
Interviews about the measurement of sexual quality and pleasure were conducted with 15 experts in the field of sexual health and informed the development of an event-level scale to measure the quality of sexual experiences. Scale items were administered to a cross-sectional nationally representative probability survey of Americans ages 18 to 60.

Main Outcome Measures
Socio-demographic items; Quality of Sexual Experience (QSE) scale items; event-level items related to overall sexual quality (“Quality item”), comparison to other sexual events (“Comparison item”), and orgasm (“Orgasm item”).

Results
QSE scores were significantly correlated with responses to the Quality Item (r = 0.901, P &lt; 0.001 for both women and men). Better experiences were associated with significantly higher QSE scores than were worse experiences; significant linear relationships were found for both women (GLM F[4,1461] = 129.46, P &lt; 0.001) and men (GLM F[4,864] = 71.84, P &lt; 0.001). QSE scores were significantly related to responses on the Orgasm Item for women [F[3,1430] = 246.53, P &lt; 0.001] and men [F[3,858] = 117.24, P &lt; 0.001].

Conclusions
The QSE scale is a valid and reliable event-level measure of the quality of a sexual experience in both women and men with outstanding psychometric properties. Clinical and research implications are discussed.
Peyronie's Disease among Men Who Have Sex with Men: Characteristics, Treatment, and Psychosocial Factors
Authors: Farrell Michael Ryan , Corder Christopher J. , Levine Laurence A. 
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACT

Introduction
We describe the characteristics of Peyronie's disease (PD) and its associated psychosocial implications in men who have sex with men (MSM).

Aim
The aims of this article are to identify presenting characteristics and treatment for MSM with PD, compare these findings to non-MSM PD patients, and determine the psychosocial impact of PD among MSM.

Main Outcome Measures
Subjective and objective presenting characteristics, MSM psychosocial factors.

Methods
We identified 27 MSM with PD presenting from 2000 to 2012 through a retrospective chart review. A random selection of 200 non-MSM PD patients was identified, who presented during the same time period. A prospective nonvalidated questionnaire was given to MSM PD patients for evaluation of psychosocial constructs.

Results
A traumatic event leading to activation of PD was identified equally among MSM and non-MSM (P = 0.815). Most common recognized activators of PD among MSM were: penetrative sexual intercourse (22.2%), self-stimulation (11.1%). More MSM presented with the primary complaint of penile deformity, including narrowing, indentation, hourglass, and hinge (11.1% MSM vs. 1.0% non-MSM, P = 0.01). No differences in total curvature, erection grade were found (P &gt; 0.05). PD had a negative effect on emotional status (89.0% MSM, 80.5% non-MSM, P &gt; 0.05) and intimate relationships (45.0% MSM, 64.0% non-MSM, P &gt; 0.05). Nonsurgical treatment was given to 88.9% MSM and 76.5% non-MSM (P &gt; 0.05), and corrective surgery in 29.6% MSM and 25.0% non-MSM (P &gt; 0.05). Of the 75.0% of MSM engaging in anal sex, 41.7% reported penetrative anal intercourse as the activator of PD. Among MSM, 31.3% experienced decreased libido, 50.0% decreased frequency of sexual activity, 92.9% were self-conscious about the appearance of their penis, and 92.9% were dissatisfied with the size of their penis.

Conclusions
Few differences exist in the clinical presentation and treatments used between MSM and non-MSM PD patients. There was evidence of emotional distress in both groups. As a result, psychosexual assessment and treatment, when indicated, should be considered essential to the patient presenting with PD.
A novel mutation within a transmembrane helix of the bile salt export pump (BSEP,ABCB11) with delayed development of cirrhosis
Authors: Stindt Jan , Ellinger Philipp , Weissenberger Katrin , Dröge Carola , Herebian Diran , Mayatepek Ertan , Homey Bernhard , Braun Stephan , Schulte am Esch Jan , Horacek Michael , Canbay Ali , Schmitt Lutz , Häussinger Dieter , Kubitz Ralf 
Published: May 2013

AbstractBackground & AimsThe bile salt export pump (BSEP, ABCB11) is essential for bile salt secretion at the canalicular membrane of liver cells. Clinical phenotypes associated with BSEP mutations are commonly categorized as benign recurrent intrahepatic cholestasis (BRIC‐2) or progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis (PFIC‐2).MethodsThe molecular basis of BSEP‐associated liver disease in a sibling pair was characterized by immunostaining, gene sequencing, bile salt analysis and recombinant expression in mammalian cells and yeast for localization and in vitro activity studies respectively.ResultsBenign recurrent intrahepatic cholestasis was considered in a brother and sister who both suffered from intermittent cholestasis since childhood. Gene sequencing of ABCB11 identified the novel missense mutation p.G374S, which is localized in the putative sixth transmembrane helix of BSEP. Liver fibrosis was present in the brother at the age of 18 with progression to cirrhosis within 3 years. Immunofluorescence of liver tissue showed clear canalicular BSEP expression; however, biliary concentration of bile salts was drastically reduced. In line with these in vivo findings, HEK293 cells showed regular membrane targeting of human BSEPG374S, whereas in vitro transport measurements revealed a strongly reduced transport activity.ConclusionsThe novel mutation p.G374S impairs transport function without disabling membrane localization of BSEP. While all other known BSEP mutations within transmembrane helices are associated with PFIC‐2, the new p.G374S mutation causes a transitional phenotype between BRIC‐2 and PFIC‐2.
Folic acid fortification of wheat flour: A cost‐effective public health intervention to prevent birth defects in Europe
Authors: Pachón H. , Kancherla V. , Handforth B. , Tyler V. , Bauwens L. 
Published: May 2013

SummaryNeural tube defects (NTDs) annually affect an estimated 320 000 newborns worldwide. Folic acid (FA), provided through supplementation and fortification, is an effective primary‐prevention strategy for NTDs if consumed in the periconceptional period. However, the potential impact of FA supplementation is tempered by low compliance. Countries that mandate FA fortification of wheat flour report an average reduction of 46% in NTD birth prevalence and favourable benefit : cost ratios of 12–48:1. Despite the well‐documented benefits of fortification and the new evidence that provides a better understanding of purported risks associated with FA, European countries have yet to embrace this public health initiative. Viable primary‐prevention strategies are needed given that an estimated 4500 NTDs occur in the 27 countries of the European Union annually, of which 72% end in terminations. Many existing factors will facilitate the success of FA flour fortification programs in the region: widespread consumption of wheat‐based products, a technologically advanced milling industry, experience adhering to and monitoring food safety measures, and familiarity with mandatory food fortification.
Relevance of food‐based dietary guidelines to food and nutrition security: A South African perspective
Authors: Schönfeldt H. C. , Hall N. , Bester M. 
Published: May 2013

SummaryFood‐based dietary guidelines are often developed at country level to assist in bringing dietary intakes closer to nutrient intake goals and, ultimately, to prevent nutrition‐related diseases. However, high food prices, alongside growing inflation, increasingly restrict food choices. This can leave those who are already vulnerable and less well off more exposed to the associated health implications of a nutrient deficient diet. With food and nutrition security being a high priority on the global nutrition agenda, this paper explores the feasibility of food‐based dietary guidelines to assist in improving food and nutrition security, focusing on nutritionally vulnerable groups in South Africa. It is argued that increased food prices, together with population growth, urbanisation and inflation, constrain everyday healthy food choices of a large proportion of South Africans. The South African food‐based dietary guidelines released in 2012 advocate the consumption of a daily diet containing a variety of foods. Unfortunately, even when the most basic and low‐cost food items are selected to make up a recommended daily diet, the associated costs are well out of reach of poor individuals residing in South Africa. The average household income of the poor in South Africa equips many households to procure mainly low‐cost staple foods such as maize meal porridge, with limited added variety. Although the ability to procure enough food to maintain satiety of all family members might categorise them as being food secure, the nutritional limitations of such monotonous diets may have severe implications in terms of their health, development and quality of life. Food‐based dietary guidelines alone have little relevance in such circumstances where financial means limit food choice. Alternative interventions are therefore required to equip the poor to follow recommended healthy diets and to improve individual food intake and nutrition security.
Improving hydration in children: A sensible guide
Authors: Gibson‐Moore H. 
Published: May 2013

SummaryWater is essential for health and vital for all bodily functions. If water losses are not replaced then dehydration can occur and even mild dehydration is associated with negative effects on health including impaired cognitive function. Studies in schoolchildren have found that many are arriving at school with a hydration deficit and, once they arrive, they are not drinking enough fluid throughout the day to maintain adequate hydration levels, thus potentially affecting their performance at school. Therefore, there is a need to highlight the importance of adequate hydration among schoolchildren. However, there is often confusion among parents, carers, health professionals and teachers about how much fluid children need to drink, as well as what drinks are most appropriate. This article provides a summary of the development of the Healthy hydration guide for children that was produced to help parents, carers, health professionals and teachers, and indeed children themselves, to choose a healthy balance of drinks to ensure optimal performance and health. It is hoped this resource will help children aged 4–13 years to establish healthy drinking behaviours.
Vitamin D2 vs. vitamin D3: Are they one and the same?
Authors: Tripkovic L. 
Published: May 2013

SummaryIt is firmly established that humans need to obtain sufficient vitamin D in order to optimise calcium absorption and thus ensure robust skeletal health throughout the life stages. Vitamin D research is rapidly expanding, with significant interest in the potential health benefits to conditions such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis, tuberculosis and dementia. Yet, as the field has expanded, gaps in knowledge have emerged. One of the most pertinent questions at present is whether the two forms of vitamin D (vitamin D2 and D3) are equal in their physiological effect. Emerging evidence challenges this long‐held assumption and raises the possibility that there may in fact be a distinct and significant difference between the efficacy of vitamins D2 and D3 that could have substantial impact in terms of vitamin D status.
Food security through the lens of nutrition
Authors: Buttriss J. L. 
Published: May 2013

Summary The Foresight report has described an unprecedented confluence of pressures whereby a growing, and in some cases, increasingly prosperous global population, alongside increasing demand for limited resources and the pressing need to address environmental challenges, including climate change and changing weather patterns, means that food security is seriously and increasingly threatened. Much of the discussion has focussed on greenhouse gas emissions associated with food production and the contribution from meat production and dairying has been highlighted. These protein‐rich foods are features of Western‐style diets and as such make a substantial contribution to intakes of a wide range of essential nutrients. Therefore, it is important to understand the impact on overall dietary patterns and associated nutrient intakes if consumption levels fall, as well as the impact from a sustainability standpoint. From a nutritional perspective, the initial knee jerk reaction around simply eating less meat is already being replaced by a more sophisticated debate that is now considering whether a healthy diet, as currently framed by food‐based dietary guidelines, can also be a sustainable dietary pattern now and in the future. There are some important questions that need to be addressed in order for a clearer picture to emerge. For example, it is as yet unclear what dietary choices consumers would make if their consumption of these foods were to be reduced, what effect these choices would have on their health and on sustainability of the food supply, and which groups of the population or individuals within households will be most vulnerable, recognising that there are demographic changes already underway associated with an ageing population. This paper provides a viewpoint through the lens of nutrition and summarises some of the initiatives already underway in relation to food security.
Membrane association and destabilization by Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans leukotoxin requires changes in secondary structures
Authors: Walters M.J. , Brown A.C. , Edrington T.C. , Baranwal S. , Du Y. , Lally E.T. , Boesze‐Battaglia K. 
Published: May 2013

SummaryAggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans is a common inhabitant of the upper aerodigestive tract of humans and non‐human primates and is associated with disseminated infections, including lung and brain abscesses, pediatric infective endocarditis, and localized aggressive periodontitis. Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans secretes a repeats‐in‐toxin protein, leukotoxin, which exclusively kills lymphocyte function‐associated antigen‐1‐bearing cells. The toxin's pathological mechanism is not fully understood; however, experimental evidence indicates that it involves the association with and subsequent destabilization of the target cell's plasma membrane. We have long hypothesized that leukotoxin secondary structure is strongly correlated with membrane association and destabilization. In this study, we tested this hypothesis by analysing lipid‐induced changes in leukotoxin conformation. Upon incubation of leukotoxin with lipids that favor leukotoxin‐membrane association, we observed an increase in leukotoxin α‐helical content that was not observed with lipids that favor membrane destabilization. The change in leukotoxin conformation after incubation with these lipids suggests that membrane binding and membrane destabilization have distinct secondary structural requirements, suggesting that they are independent events. These studies provide insight into the mechanism of cell damage that leads to disease progression by A. actinomycetemcomitans.
The development of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia: an interview with Dr. John J. ‘Jack’ Downes
Authors: Mai Christine L. , Schreiner Mark S. , Firth Paul G. , Yaster Myron 
Published: May 2013

SummaryDr. John J. ‘Jack’ Downes (1930–), the anesthesiologist‐in‐chief at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (1972–1996), has made numerous contributions to pediatric anesthesia and critical care medicine through a broad spectrum of research on chronic respiratory failure, status asthmaticus, postoperative risks of apnea in premature infants, and home‐assisted mechanical ventilation. However, his defining moment was in January 1967, when The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia inaugurated its pediatric intensive care unit—the first of its kind in North America. During his tenure, he and his colleagues trained an entire generation of pediatric anesthesiologists and intensivists and set a standard of care and professionalism that continues to the present day. Based on an interview with Dr. Downes, this article reviews a career that advanced pediatric anesthesia and critical care medicine and describes the development of that first pediatric intensive care unit at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.
Salivary Gland Choristoma (Heterotopic Salivary Gland Tissue) on the Anterior Chest Wall of a Newborn
Authors: Aby Janelle L. , Patel Mayha , Sundram Uma , Benjamin Latanya T. 
Published: May 2013

AbstractSalivary gland choristoma (heterotopic salivary gland tissue) is a rare condition typically seen in the newborn period. This developmental heterotopia is generally nonprogressive, with little risk of malignant transformation. We present the second known reported case of a salivary gland choristoma located on the anterior chest wall. Knowledge of this rare entity will allow for accurate diagnosis and management of this benign anatomic variant.
Refractory Trichophyton rubrum Infection in Lamellar Ichthyosis
Authors: Scheers Christel , Andre Josette , Thompson Curtis , Rebuffat Elisabeth , Harag Saadia , Kolivras Athanassios 
Published: May 2013

AbstractA 10‐month‐old boy with congenital lamellar ichthyosis presented with a chronic Trichophyton rubrum infection. There was no history of atopy or immunosuppression, and examination revealed high total immunoglobulin E (IgE) with a positive specific IgE for T. rubrum. Multiple treatments with fluconazole were necessary to control the infection. T. rubrum is present worldwide and is responsible for the vast majority of chronic dermatophytosis. Lamellar ichthyosis is a risk factor for chronic dermatophytosis because of excessive keratin and the barrier defect. A delayed‐type hypersensitivity reaction to T. rubrum is associated with cure, whereas immediate hypersensitivity and IgE are not protective and may lead to chronic infection. Atopy and the Th2 profile therefore seem to be associated with chronic dermatophytosis. The association between ichthyosis and atopy is well documented. T. rubrum also has an interesting ability to evade immunity, which helps explain the chronic infection. Finally, in ichthyosis, it is likely that fluconazole has difficulty penetrating the acanthotic stratum corneum, which explains treatment failure. We report this case to alert clinicians to the possible association between lamellar ichthyosis and chronic dermatophytosis and to report the difficulties of management.
Molluscum Contagiosum–Like Lesions in Histoid Leprosy in a 10‐Year‐Old Indian Boy
Authors: Chander Ram , Jabeen Masarat , Malik Meenu 
Published: May 2013

AbstractHistoid leprosy is extremely rare in children. Molluscum contagiosum–like lesions in the setting of histoid leprosy is a highly atypical presentation and may signify the process of “transepidermal elimination” in lesions with high bacillary load. A case of histoid leprosy with umbilicated papules and nodules mimicking molluscum contagiosum is reported in a 10‐year‐old Indian boy.