bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Bayesian spatial multispecies modelling to assess pelagic fish stocks from acoustic- and trawl-survey data
Authors: Juntunen Teppo , Vanhatalo Jarno , Peltonen Heikki , Mäntyniemi Samu 
Published: December 2011

AbstractJuntunen, T., Vanhatalo, J., Peltonen, H., and Mäntyniemi, S. 2012. Bayesian spatial multispecies modelling to assess pelagic fish stocks from acoustic- and trawl-survey data. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 69: 95–104. A Bayesian spatial model was constructed to estimate the abundance of multiple fish species in a pelagic environment. Acoustic- and trawl-survey data were combined with environmental data to predict the spatial distribution of (i) the acoustic backscattering of fish, (ii) the relative proportion of each species, and (iii) their mean length in the Gulf of Finland in the northeastern Baltic Sea. By combining the three spatial model layers, the spatial distribution of the biomass of each species was estimated. The model consists of a linear predictor on environmental variables and a spatial random effect given by a Gaussian process. A Bayesian approach is a natural choice for the task because it provides a theoretically justified means of summarizing the uncertainties from various model layers. In the study area, three species dominate pelagic waters: sprat (Sprattus sprattus), herring (Clupea harengus), and three-spined stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus). Results are presented for each model layer and for estimated total biomass for each species in 2 × 2 km lattices. The posterior mean and central 95% credible intervals of total biomass were sprat 45.7 kt (27.7–71.6), herring 24.6 kt (9.7–41.3), and three-spined stickleback 1.9 kt (0.9–3.2).
Cell death pathways and autophagy in the central nervous system and its involvement in neurodegeneration, immunity and central nervous system infection: to die or not to die – that is the question
Authors: Rosello A , Warnes G , Meier U-C 
Published: December 2011

SummaryDeath rules our lives. In this short paper, we summarize new insights into molecular mechanisms of neurodegeneration. Here we review the most important processes of cell death: apoptosis and oncosis. We focus on autophagy, which is pivotal for neuronal homeostasis, in the context of neurodegeneration, infection and immunity. Its dysfunction has been linked to several neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's, Huntington's and Alzheimer's diseases. Our understanding is still incomplete, but may highlight attractive new avenues for the development of treatment strategies to combat neurodegenerative diseases.
Degradation of N‐(1‐Deoxy‐d‐xylulos‐1‐yl)glycine and N‐(1‐Deoxy‐d‐xylulos‐1‐yl)proline using thermal treatment
Authors: Zhang Ping‐Jun , Zhao Zhen‐Gang , Yu Shu‐Juan , He Shu‐Zhen 
Published: December 2011

SummaryThe formation and degradation of N‐(1‐Deoxy‐d‐xylulos‐1‐yl)glycine and N‐(1‐Deoxy‐d‐xylulos‐1‐yl)proline, derived from the secondary amine Maillard reaction in xylose‐amino acid model solutions, were detailed in this study. The identification and quantitative analysis of N‐(1‐Deoxy‐d‐xylulos‐1‐yl)glycine and N‐(1‐Deoxy‐d‐xylulos‐1‐yl)proline were carried out using high‐performance anion‐exchange chromatography and high‐performance liquid chromatography. The formation of intermediate and advanced products derived from N‐(1‐Deoxy‐d‐xylulos‐1‐yl)glycine and N‐(1‐Deoxy‐d‐xylulos‐1‐yl)proline was also tested using an UV‐Vis spectrophotometer to gain a better comparing of the degradation process of the two important Maillard reaction products using thermal treatment. Results showed that the degradation of N‐(1‐Deoxy‐d‐xylulos‐1‐yl)glycine was more significant than N‐(1‐Deoxy‐d‐xylulos‐1‐yl)proline. Moreover, xylose was tested in the degradation products of both N‐(1‐Deoxy‐d‐xylulos‐1‐yl)glycine and N‐(1‐Deoxy‐d‐xylulos‐1‐yl)proline, which indicated that the degradation of N‐substituted 1‐amino‐1‐deoxyketoses was a reversible reaction to form reducing sugar.
Prevalence of the JAK2V617F mutation in Chinese patients with Budd‐Chiari syndrome and portal vein thrombosis: A prospective study
Authors: Qi Xingshun , Zhang Cheng , Han Guohong , Zhang Wei , He Chuangye , Yin Zhanxin , Liu Zhiwei , Bai Wei , Li Ruijun , Bai Ming , Yang Zhiping , Wu Kaichun , Fan Daiming 
Published: December 2011

AbstractBackground and Aim:  Whether routine screening for the JAK2V617F mutation should be performed in Chinese patients with Budd‐Chiari syndrome (BCS) and portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is unclear. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the prevalence of the JAK2V617F mutation in such patients and to explore the risk factors associated with the mutation.Methods:  All consecutive patients with BCS and PVT diagnosed between September 2009 and May 2011 were prospectively enrolled in the observational study and underwent the JAK2V617F mutation detection.Results:  Prevalence of the JAK2V617F mutation was 4.3% (4/92) in patients with primary BCS, 26.6% (17/64) in non‐malignant and non‐cirrhotic patients with PVT, and 1.4% (1/71) in cirrhotic patients with PVT. All BCS patients with the JAK2V617F mutation had both platelet count (PLT) of above 100 × 109/L (range, 107–188 × 109/L) and splenomegaly. In non‐malignant and non‐cirrhotic patients with PVT, higher PLT and older ages were the independent predictors of the JAK2V617F mutation. Further, the difference in PLT between the patients with and without the mutation displayed greater significance in the subgroup of patients with splenomegaly (P < 0.0001), but the statistical significance disappeared in the subgroup of patients with splenectomy (P = 0.1312).Conclusions:  The low prevalence of the JAK2V617F mutation in patients with BCS suggests that myeloproliferative neoplasm should be an uncommon etiological factor of BCS in China. Routine screening for the JAK2V617F mutation might be recommended in non‐malignant and non‐cirrhotic patients with PVT, but not in cirrhotic patients with PVT. The coexistence of higher PLT and splenomegaly might be closely associated with the JAK2V617F mutation.
Preservation of nutritional‐status in patients with refractory ascites due to hepatic cirrhosis who are undergoing repeated paracentesis
Authors: Sorrentino Paolo , Castaldo Giuseppe , Tarantino Luciano , Bracigliano Alessandra , Perrella Alessandro , Perrella Oreste , Fiorentino Francesco , Vecchione Raffaela , D' Angelo Salvatore 
Published: December 2011

AbstractBackground and Aim:  Refractory ascites in liver‐cirrhosis is associated with a poor prognosis. We performed a prospective study to investigate whether aggressive nutritional‐support could improve outcomes in cirrhotic patients.Methods:  Cirrhotic patients undergoing serial large‐volume paracentesis for refractory‐ascites were enrolled and randomized into three groups. Group A received post‐paracentesis intravenous nutritional‐support in addition to a balanced oral diet and a late‐evening protein snack, group B received the same oral nutritional‐protocol as the first group but without parenteral support, and group C (the control group) received a low‐sodium or sodium‐free diet. Clinical, anthropometric and laboratory nutritional parameters and biochemical tests of liver and renal function were reported for 12 months of follow‐up.Results:  We enrolled 120 patients, who were randomized into three groups of equal size. Patients on the nutritional‐protocol showed better preservation of clinical, anthropometric and laboratory nutritional parameters that were associated with decreased deterioration of liver function compared with patients on the low‐sodium or sodium‐free diet (group C). Groups A and B had lower morbidity and mortality rates than the control group (C). Mortality rates were significantly better in patients who were treated with parenteral‐nutritional‐support than for the other two groups. In patients who were on the nutritional‐protocol, there was a reduction in the requirement of taps for the treatment of refractory ascites.Conclusions:  Post‐paracentesis parenteral‐nutritional‐support with a balanced oral diet and an evening protein snack appears to be the best care protocol for patients with liver‐cirrhosis that has been complicated by refractory‐ascites.
Prevalence of genital mycoplasmas and ureaplasmas in men younger than 40 years‐of‐age with acute epididymitis
Authors: Ito Shin , Tsuchiya Tomohiro , Yasuda Mitsuru , Yokoi Shigeaki , Nakano Masahiro , Deguchi Takashi 
Published: December 2011

Objectives:  Acute epididymitis is often associated with urethritis. Mycoplasma genitalium and Ureaplasma urealyticum have been considered as pathogens of urethritis. The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence of these microorganisms in men with acute epididymitis.Method:  A total of 56 men younger than 40 years‐of‐age with acute epididymitis were enrolled in the present study between January 2006 and June 2010. First‐void urine specimens were subjected to culture of aerobic bacterial species, and examined for the presence of Chlamydia trachomatis, M. genitalium, M. hominis, U. parvum and U. urealyticum by polymerase chain reaction‐based assays. Urethral swabs were cultured for Neisseria gonorrhoeae.Results:  The number and percentage of patients positive for each microorganism were as follows: Gram‐negative bacilli, 2% and 3.6%; Gram‐positive cocci, 23% and 41.1%; N. gonorrhoeae, 3% and 5.4%; C. trachomatis, 28% and 50.0%; M. genitalium, 5% and 8.9%; M. hominis, 6% and 10.7%; U. parvum, 6% and 10.7%; and U. urealyticum, 5% and 8.9%. Among 25 men with non‐chlamydial non‐gonococcal epididymitis, who were negative for Gram‐negative bacilli, M. genitalium or U. urealyticum was detected in one man each (4.0%), and M. hominis and/or U. parvum was detected in five (20.0%).Conclusion:  In men younger than 40 years‐of‐age with acute epididymitis, C. trachomatis is a major pathogen. The prevalence of genital mycoplasmas and ureaplasmas are lower, and the role of genital mycoplasmas and ureaplasmas in the development of acute epididymitis remains to be determined.
Role of apathy in the effectiveness of weight management programmes
Authors: Desouza C. V. , Padala P. R. , Haynatzki G. , Anzures P. , Demasi C. , Shivaswamy V. 
Published: December 2011

Aims: Obesity, which is at epidemic proportions in the USA, is associated with a higher risk of several co‐morbid diseases including, cardiovascular disease, cancer and sleep apnea. Weight loss and weight maintenance programmmes are difficult to sustain for long term. Mental health problems such as apathy may be a major factor in patients unsuccessful in adhering to weight loss programmes. We propose that treating apathy will result in better weight loss in obese patients.Methods: This was a randomized prospective pilot study. Obese patients (n = 101) were randomized in a 1:2:2 ratio to either (i) standard nutrition counselling; or (ii) the Department of Veterans Affairs weight loss programme called ‘motivate obese veterans everywhere ’ (MOVE); or (iii) methylphenidate treatment plus the MOVE programme together. The intervention was for 6 months (26 weeks).Results: For the within groups analysis, the absolute changes in weight (kg) are as follows, for MOVE (mean: −1.84; 95% confidence interval (CI): −4.56 to 0.87; p = 0.25), Methylphenidate (mean: −4.61; 95% CI: −7.90 to −1.33; p = 0.04), standard nutrition counselling (mean: −0.60; 95% CI: −2.59 to 1.39; p = 0.21), which indicates that although all three groups lost weight, only the methylphenidate group achieved statistical significance. The between group differences of the relative change in weight were not statistically different. The apathy evaluation score and the patient activation measure improved in all groups.Conclusion: Together these data suggest that treating apathy might be an important factor in the success of weight management programmes.
Examination of neurological subtle signs in ADHD as a clinical tool for the diagnosis and their relationship to spatial working memory
Authors: Ferrin Maite , Vance Alasdair 
Published: December 2011

Background: Neurological subtle signs (NSS) are minor neurological abnormalities that have been shown to be increased in a number of neurodevelopmental conditions. For attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), it remains unclear whether NSS may aid the clinical diagnostic process.Methods: This study explored the association of total and specific domains of NSS in 1,055 children and adolescents with ADHD compared to 130 age‐matched typically developing participants; the relationship between NSS and Spatial Working Memory (SWM) as a cognitive process integrally involved in ADHD was also assessed. To determine the diagnostic and predictive efficiency of NSS, a receiver operating curve analysis was performed and the area under the curve (AUC) quantified. The best discriminant points for differentiating between ADHD and typically developing participants and the predictive power of NSS for SWM impairment in ADHD young people were also calculated.Results: Area under the curves for total NSS, smoothness/accuracy, cerebellar signs and choreo‐athetoid movements scores were considered good (.84, .79, .74 and .73 respectively), and the results remained after controlling for gender and IQ. A total score of 13 or over on the Scored Developmental Neurological Examination proved to be a good threshold point for differentiating between the ADHD and typically developing participants. For ADHD children, the AUC of total NSS to distinguish between those below 25th and above 75th percentile were .77 and .73 for Spatial Span and for Between Search Errors respectively (the two SWM‐dependent measures examined).Conclusions: This study provides evidence suggesting that NSS may aid the clinical evaluation of a child or adolescent with ADHD. In children and adolescents with ADHD, NSS are associated with difficulties in SWM, specifically the Spatial Span and Between Search Error components.
The Global Online Sexuality Survey (GOSS): Female Sexual Dysfunction Among Internet Users in the Reproductive Age Group in the Middle East
Authors: Shaeer Osama , Shaeer Kamal , Shaeer Eman 
Published: December 2011

ABSTRACT

Introduction
The exact prevalence of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) in the Middle East is exceptionally difficult to measure in light of its sensitive nature and the conservative tinge of the population.

Aim
The Global Online Sexuality Survey-Arabic-Females (GOSS-AR-F) is a community-based study of female sexuality in the Middle East through an online survey.

Main Outcome Measures
Prevalence of risk for female sexual dysfunction (rFSD) in the reproductive age group and its vulnerability to various risk factors.

Methods
GOSS-AR-F was offered via online advertising. The survey is comprised of the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaire among other questions.

Results
Out of 2,920 participants, 344 participants completed all survey questions. Average total FSFI score was 23 ± 6.5, with 59.1% of participants suffering rFSD. Age adjusted prevalence of rFSD was 59.5%, standardized to World Health Organization World Standard Population. There was a statistically significant higher prevalence of rFSD among cases with subjectively reported depression and male partner-related shortcomings such as erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation as reported by the female participant, in addition to dissatisfaction with partner’s penile size, insufficient foreplay, and practice of masturbation. This was not the case with advancing age, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, smoking, ongoing pregnancy, mode of previous child delivery, infertility, menstrual irregularities, dysmenorrhea, interpersonal distress, subjectively reported hirsutism, and female genital cutting. Participants were found to require longer duration of coitus and better ejaculatory control but not necessarily a higher coital frequency.

Conclusion
Female sexual function in the reproductive age appears to be adversely affected by psychological factors and shortcomings in male sexual function more than anything. These findings point to the possibility that many cases of FSD can be managed with the focus on male partner’s ailments and attitudes that are relatively easier to manage.
Influence of Baseline Serum Testosterone on Changes in Body Composition in Response to Testosterone Therapy
Authors: Di Sante Stefania , Conners William P. , Morgentaler Abraham 
Published: December 2011

ABSTRACT

Introduction
The prognostic value of serum total testosterone (TT) prior to treatment has not been investigated.

Aim
This study was performed to determine how baseline TT influences changes in body composition in men undergoing testosterone therapy (TTh).

Main Outcome Measures
Response to TTh in a clinical population of men with symptomatic testosterone deficiency (TD).

Methods
Retrospective case series of 58 men with TD were treated with TTh. All were naïve to previous TTh. Men were stratified into two groups: group 1 (N = 38) consisted of men with baseline TT &gt; 300 ng/dL (10.4 nmol/L) and group 2 (N = 20) consisted of men with total TT &lt; 300 ng/dL. Men in group 1 were diagnosed with TD on the basis of low values of free testosterone (FT) &lt; 1.5 ng/dL (19.3 pmol/L). Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry was performed at baseline and follow-up (6.9 ± 4 months) to assess regional and whole body.

Results
At baseline, both groups had similar lean mass (LM) and fat mass (FM), but percentage of trunk FM and percentage of total FM were significantly higher in group 2. Both groups demonstrated similar increases in LM for arms, legs, and total body. Percentage of total FM significantly decreased in both groups.

Conclusions
Baseline severity of symptomatic TD influences body composition. Similar changes in LM and FM were seen with TTh regardless of baseline severity in TD. Men with TT &gt; 300 ng/dL demonstrated significant positive changes in body composition. The similarity in objective response to TTh in these two groups provides support for the value of FT in the assessment of men with symptoms suggestive of TD.
Complications of Penile Augmentation by Use of Nonmedical Industrial Silicone
Authors: Shamsodini Ahmad , Al-Ansari Abdulla A. , Talib Raidh A. , Alkhafaji Haidar M. , Shokeir Ahmed A. , Toth Csaba 
Published: December 2011

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Penile augmentation has been reported in the literature by injecting various materials by nonmedical persons.

Aim
This study aims to present our experience in management of penile augmentation complications associated with injection or implantation of industrial silicone by lay persons.

Main Outcome Measures
Early surgical intervention can lead to faster recovery and better cosmetic and functional outcome.

Methods
Two patients had injection of industrial silicone paste, and the other two had industrial silicone ring implantation. All the patients except one were presented after 13 months of the procedure. Patients with industrial silicone ring presented with multiple sinuses of penile skin in one, and abscess discharge pus from the site of implanted ring in the other. Both patients with injected silicone paste presented with swelling and deformity of the penis that interfered with their intercourse. Silicone ring patients underwent skin incision and drainage of the infected materials and extraction of the implants with delayed skin closure. The two patients with silicone paste injection underwent two-stage penile reconstructions using scrotal flap.

Results
Patients with extracted rings had smooth recovery with acceptable cosmetic outcome. One of them was not initially satisfied with the length of his penis that was overcome by short-term use of vacuum device. One of the patients with silicone paste injection had wound infection that was successfully treated with local wound care. Both had satisfactory penile length and acceptable cosmetic outcome. All patients had normal erectile function postoperatively.

Conclusion
Complications of using industrial silicone injection can be drastic, and awareness of the public can avoid using of this material for penile augmentation.
Systematic Review of Social Network Analysis in Adolescent Cigarette Smoking Behavior*
Authors: Seo Dong‐Chul , Huang Yan 
Published: December 2011

BACKGROUND: Social networks are important in adolescent smoking behavior. Previous research indicates that peer context is a major causal factor of adolescent smoking behavior. To date, however, little is known about the influence of peer group structure on adolescent smoking behavior.METHODS: Studies that examined adolescent social networks with regard to their cigarette smoking behavior were identified through online and manual literature searches. Ten social network analysis studies involving a total of 28,263 adolescents were included in the final review.RESULTS: Of the 10 reviewed studies, 6 identify clique members, liaisons, and isolates as contributing factors to adolescent cigarette smoking. Significantly higher rates of smoking are noted among isolates than clique members or liaisons in terms of peer network structure. Eight of the reviewed studies indicate that peer selection or influence precedes adolescents' smoking behavior and intent to smoke. Such peer selection or influence accounts for a large portion of similarities among smoking adolescents.CONCLUSION: Adolescents who are identified as isolates are more likely to smoke and engage in risk‐taking behaviors than others in the peer network structure. Given that the vast majority of current adult smokers started their smoking habits during adolescence, adolescent smoking prevention efforts will likely benefit from incorporating social network analytic approaches and focusing the efforts on isolates and other vulnerable adolescents from a peer selection and influence perspective.
Adolescent Health Literacy: The Importance of Credible Sources for Online Health Information
Authors: Ghaddar Suad F. , Valerio Melissa A. , Garcia Carolyn M. , Hansen Lucy 
Published: December 2011

BACKGROUND: Little research has examined adolescent health literacy and its relationship with online health information sources. The purpose of this study is to explore health literacy among a predominantly Hispanic adolescent population and to investigate whether exposure to a credible source of online health information, MedlinePlus®, is associated with higher levels of health literacy.METHODS: An online survey was administered to a cross‐sectional random sample of high school students in South Texas. Self‐reported sociodemographic characteristics and data on health‐information‐seeking behavior and exposure to MedlinePlus® were collected. Health literacy was assessed by eHEALS and the Newest Vital Sign (NVS). Linear and binary logistic regressions were completed.RESULTS: Of the 261 students who completed the survey, 56% had heard of MedlinePlus®, 52% had adequate levels of health literacy as measured by NVS, and the mean eHEALS score was 30.6 (possible range 8‐40). Health literacy was positively associated with self‐efficacy and seeking health information online. Exposure to MedlinePlus® was associated with higher eHealth literacy scores (p < .001) and increased the likelihood of having adequate health literacy (odds ratio: 2.1; 95% CI: 1.1, 4.1).CONCLUSION: Exposure to a credible source of online health information is associated with higher levels of health literacy. The incorporation of a credible online health information resource into school health education curricula is a promising approach for promoting health literacy.