Sex Factors Research Papers - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

For researchers interested in understanding men's health, there are two main literatures to harvest. The first is research on men's health arising from the study of men and masculinities. The second is the broader study of inequalities in health, including gender inequalities in health. However, these literatures have remained distinct. This paper seeks to develop a model of understanding men's health from both of these literatures. In order to achieve this integration, this paper argues that studies of men's health should be based on 'critical studies on men' which emerges from feminist theory. Critical studies on men's health is then integrated into the broader explanatory options identified in the health inequality literature in order to provide a more fulsome account of variance within men's health and between the health status of men and women. Given the amenability of men's health issues to interrogation within this resulting framework, it is argued that the inequalities literature should start to include men's health issues in its work. r

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- Sociology, Psychology, Anthropology, Feminist Theory

The role of dopaminergic systems in the control of sexual behavior has been a subject of study for at least 40 years. Not surprisingly, reviews of the area have been published at variable intervals. However, the earlier reviews have been summaries of published research rather than a critical analysis of it. They have focused upon the conclusions presented in the original research papers rather than on evaluating the reliability and functional significance of the data reported to support these conclusions. During the last few years, important new knowledge concerning dopaminergic systems and their behavioral functions as well as the possible role of these systems in sexual behavior has been obtained. For the first time, it is now possible to integrate the data obtained in studies of sexual behavior into the wider context of general dopaminergic functions. To make this possible, we first present an analysis of the nature and organization of sexual behavior followed by a summary of current knowledge about the brain structures of crucial importance for this behavior. We then proceed with a description of the dopaminergic systems within or projecting to these structures. Whenever possible, we also try to include data on the electrophysiological actions of dopamine. Thereafter, we proceed with analyses of pharmacological data and release studies, both in males and in females. Consistently throughout this discussion, we make an effort to distinguish pharmacological effects on sexual behavior from a possible physiological role of dopamine. By pharmacological effects, we mean here drug-induced alterations in behavior that are not the result of the normal actions of synaptically released dopamine in the untreated animal. The conclusion of this endeavor is that pharmacological effects of dopaminergic drugs are variable in both males and females, independently of whether the drugs are administered systemically or intracerebrally. We conclude that the pharmacological data basically reinforce the notion that dopamine is important for motor functions and general arousal. These actions could, in fact, explain most of the effects seen on sexual behavior. Studies of dopamine release, in both males and females, have focused on the nucleus accumbens, a structure with at most a marginal importance for sexual behavior. Since accumbens dopamine release is associated with all kinds of events, aversive as well as appetitive, it can have no specific effect on sexual behavior but promotes arousal and activation of non-specific motor patterns. Preoptic and paraventricular nucleus release of dopamine may have some relationship to mechanisms of ejaculation or to the neuroendocrine consequences of sexual activity or they can be related to other autonomic processes associated with copulation. There is no compelling indication in existing experimental data that dopamine is of any particular importance for sexual motivation. There is experimental evidence showing that it is of no importance for sexual reward.

- by Anders Agmo
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- Cognitive Science, Electrophysiology, Animal Behavior, Nucleus Accumbens

Motivational interviewing (MI) for the treatment of alcohol and drug problems is typically conducted over 1 to 3 sessions. The current work evaluates an intensive 9-session version of MI (Intensive MI) compared to a standard single MI session (Standard MI) using 163 methamphetamine (MA) dependent individuals. The primary purpose of this paper is to report the unexpected finding that women with co-occurring alcohol problems in the Intensive MI condition reduced the severity of their alcohol problems significantly more than women in the Standard MI condition at the 6-month follow-up. Stronger perceived alliance with the therapist was inversely associated with alcohol problem severity scores. Findings indicate that Intensive MI is a beneficial treatment for alcohol problems among women with MA dependence.

- by Douglas Polcin and +1
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- Psychology, Treatment Outcome, Motivational Interviewing, Substance Abuse Treatment
- by Enrique Arriola-Guevara
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- Nursing, Privacy, Social Support, Qualitative Research

The current study was designed to investigate children's memory and suggestibility for events differing in valence (positive or negative) and veracity (true or false). A total of 82 3-and 5-year-olds were asked repeated questions about true and false events, either in a grouped order (i.e., all questions about a certain event asked consecutively) or in a nongrouped order (i.e., questions about a certain event were interspersed with questions about other events). Interviewer gender was also varied. Individual differences, including attachment style, inhibition, and behavioral adjustment, were examined as potential predictors of memory and suggestibility. Results revealed significant age, valence, and veracity effects on children's memory reports. Path analysis demonstrated that individual differences in behavioral problems and inhibitory ability predicted children's provision of inaccurate information. Implications for psychological theory and legal application are discussed.

- by Jennifer Schaaf
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- Psychology, Cognitive Science, Individuality, False Memory

Background: International youth holiday resorts feature many of the key risk factors for violence, including large numbers of bars and nightclubs and high levels of substance use. However, little information currently exists on the extent of violence amongst holidaymakers or factors that increase risks of involvement in fights on holiday. Methods: A cross-sectional comparative survey of 3003 British, German and Spanish holidaymakers aged 16-35 years, undertaken in the departure areas of Ibiza and Majorca (Spain) airports. Results: Nightlife was the most common reason for destination choice in both locations. Overall, more than half of participants reported drinking to drunkenness at least 2 days per week during their holiday (59.3% Majorca, 58.0% Ibiza; significantly lower in Spanish participants in both locations). Levels of illicit drug use were highest in Ibiza and in British and Spanish holidaymakers. Levels of violence were highest in Majorca, where 6.4% of participants reported involvement in a fight, compared with 2.8% in Ibiza. However, after controlling for confounding factors, holiday destination was not a significant predictor of violence. Predictors of fighting were being male, young, British, frequent drunkenness and use of cannabis or cocaine during the holiday. Use of ecstasy on holiday was associated with not being involved in violence. Conclusions: High levels of substance use contribute to violence being a relatively common feature of young people's visits to international holiday resorts. To protect the health and well-being of holidaymakers and local populations in popular resorts, violence and substance use prevention must adapt to an increasingly globalized nightlife.

- by Amador Calafat
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- Violence, Public Health, Adolescent, European Public Health Policies
- by Rachel Jenkins
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- Depression, Women, Gender Identity, British medical history

Aqueous extract of valerian root (Valeriana offcinalis L.) improves sleep quality in man. PHARMAC. BIOCHEM. BEHAV. 17(l) 65-71, 1982.-The effect of an aqueous extract of valerian (Valeriana officinalis L.) root on subjectively rated sleep measures was studied on 128 people. Each person received 9 samples to test (3 containing placebo, 3 containing 400 mg valerian extract and 3 containing a proprietary over-the-counter valerian preparation).

- by Peter Leathwood
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- Pharmacology, Coffee, Aging, Medicinal Plants

This study examines the relationship between a computerized neuropsychological assessment battery, the Automated Neuropsychological Assessment Metrics (ANAM) and a widely used ability measure, Woodcock-Johnson III Tests of Cognitive Ability (WJ-III). Results indicated substantial relationship between the ANAM throughput (accuracy/response time) scores and the WJ-III Cognitive Efficiency cluster. An unexpectedly strong relationship was evident between accuracy scores on the ANAM Logical Reasoning scale and the WJ-III General Intellectual Ability score, purporting to measure the g factor. The findings support the viability of the ANAM as a time- and cost-effective tool for appraisal of cognitive function.

- by S. Kathleen Krach
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- Psychology, Cognitive Science, Military Medicine, Intelligence
- by John Mirowsky
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- Sociology, Social Alienation, Sex Factors, Age Factors

This study addresses the extent to which insecure and disorganized attachments increase risk for externalizing problems using meta-analysis. From 69 samples (N = 5,947), the association between insecurity and externalizing problems was significant, d = 0.31 (95% CI: 0.23, 0.40). Larger effects were found for boys (d = 0.35), clinical samples (d = 0.49), and from observation-based outcome assessments (d = 0.58). Larger effects were found for attachment assessments other than the Strange Situation. Overall, disorganized children appeared at elevated risk (d = 0.34, 95% CI: 0.18, 0.50), with weaker effects for avoidance (d = 0.12, 95% CI: 0.03, 0.21) and resistance (d = 0.11, 95% CI: )0.04, 0.26). The results are discussed in terms of the potential significance of attachment for mental health. Support from the Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research to Marinus van IJzendoorn (NWO SPINOZA award) and to Marian Bakermans-Kranenburg (NWO VIDI grant) is gratefully acknowledged.

- by Glenn Roisman
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- Psychology, Cognitive Science, Child Development, Personality Assessment
- by Joshua Broman-Fulks
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- Psychology, Assessment, Anger, Psychometrics

Secondary analyses of Revised NEO Personality Inventory data from 26 cultures (N = 23,031) suggest that gender differences are small relative to individual variation within genders; differences are replicated across cultures for both college-age and adult samples, and differences are broadly consistent with gender stereotypes: Women reported themselves to be higher in Neuroticism, Agreeableness, Warmth, and Openness to Feelings, whereas men were higher in Assertiveness and Openness to Ideas. Contrary to predictions from evolutionary theory, the magnitude of gender differences varied across cultures. Contrary to predictions from the social role model, gender differences were most pronounced in European and American cultures in which traditional sex roles are minimized. Possible explanations for this surprising finding are discussed, including the attribution of masculine and feminine behaviors to roles rather than traits in traditional cultures.

- by Paul T Costa
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- Marketing, Psychology, Cognitive Science, Personality

Using a sample of dental students (N=373) from four Canadian dental schools, this longitudinal study determined whether the new Canadian Dental Association (CDA) structured interview was a predictor of clinical and academic performance. The new interview predicted clinical performance in the third and fourth years of dental school, but not academic performance. The Canadian Dental Aptitude Test (DAT) continued to predict first- and second-year academic performance, but not clinical performance in the senior years. A personality factor, "Conscientiousness," predicted clinical and academic performance to various degrees across the four years of dental school. A second personality factor, "Openness to Experience," predicted third-year academic performance. The results suggest that a combination of scores from the DAT, a valid measure of personality, and a well-designed structured interview will provide the best prediction of those applicants who will do well in both...

- by Victor Catano
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- Dentistry, Personality, Educational Measurement, Personality Assessment

Asphyxial deaths utilising plastic bags or wrappings occurring over a 20-year period from March 1984 to February 2004 were reviewed at Forensic Science SA, Australia. A total of 45 cases were identified, with three occurring in infants and children (one accidental asphyxia; two homicides). Of the remaining 42 adults the male to female ratio was approximately 1:1 (23 and 19 cases, respectively), with all deaths attributed to suicide. The 42 adult cases represented 1.2% of the 3569 suicides autopsied at the centre over the time period of the study. The age ranges of the adult victims were 19-88 years (mean = 47.1 years) for the males, and 32-89 years (mean = 60.5 years) for the females. The adult female victims were significantly older than the males (p < 0.001). A number of victims had histories of depression and had taken prescription medications. A significant difference was found in the temporal occurrence of the adult deaths, with six cases occurring between 1984 and 1989, nine between 1989 and 1994, 11 between 1994 and 1999, and 16 between 1999 and 2004 (p < 0.001). Plastic bag asphyxial deaths were rare and in adults were due to suicide involving either older females or younger males. A significant increase in cases in South Australia in recent years was demonstrated, possibly related to publicity surrounding assisted suicides, and the ready availability of suicide manuals and information on suicide techniques from the internet.

- by Roger Byard
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- Forensic Science, Homicide, Suicide, Child

The "think manager-think male" (TMTM) association underlies many gender inequalities in the workplace. However, research into the "glass cliff" has demonstrated that the suitability of male and female managers varies as a function of company performance such that in times of poor performance people may "think female" . Three studies examined gender and managerial stereotypes in the context of companies that are doing well or doing badly. Study 1 reproduced TMTM associations for descriptions of managers of successful companies but demonstrated a reversal for managers of unsuccessful companies. Study 2 examined the prescriptive nature of these stereotypes. No TMTM relationship was found for ideal managers of successful companies, but ideal managers of unsuccessful companies were associated with the female stereotype. Study 3 suggested that women may be favored in times of poor performance, not because they are expected to improve the situation, but because they are seen to be good people managers and can take the blame for organizational failure. Together, the studies illustrate the importance of context as a moderator of the TMTM association. Practical and theoretical implications for gender discrimination in the workplace are discussed.

- by Renata Bongiorno
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- Marketing, Psychology, Applied Psychology, Leadership

Background The identifi cation of individual staff characteristics that have a relationship with specifi c attitudes of staff caring for people with intellectual disability (ID) may enable targeted training and better support. Method Sixty-six participants from services for people with ID in metropolitan Melbourne, Australia, completed a survey, including the Attitudes to Sexuality Questionnaire (Individuals with an Intellectual Disability; Cuskelly & Gilmore, 2007). Results Staff attitudes towards the sexuality of people with ID were quite positive. Age, program agency position, and training uptake were all associated with positive staff attitudes. Conclusion Targeted training programs in sexuality can benefi t direct care workers in general, and older staff more specifi cally. Emphasis is warranted in the area of training for managing male sexual behaviours. J Intellect Dev Dis Downloaded from informahealthcare.com by Monash University on 01/31/13

- by Susana Gavidia-payne
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- Sociology, Social Work, Sexuality, Australia

This study investigates why the illegal traffic of kidneys exists and remains resilient in the Philippines. It also evaluates the efficacy of the legal and regulatory framework for kidney (and organ) transplantation, and the corresponding implications for health policy. The experiences of comparable countries are noted.Three surveys were employed in this study: 1) a review of related literature on kidney black markets; 2) questionnaire-based interviews of a multi-stage probability sample of 131 kidney vendors from the two largest supplier regions in the Philippines; and 3) a comparative content analysis of pertinent legal and regulatory measures to address the underground kidney trade.Survey results, based on a 4.0 percent statistical margin of error, indicate that kidney vendors are typically males (98.4 percent) who belong to the lower income classes/groups D and E (88.5 percent). The vast majority of vendors (89.2 percent) were unrelated to kidney recipients, many of whom were of foreign descent (60.3 percent). The study finds that certain key elements underpin the kidney black market in the Philippines: an open, brokered and compensation-based contractual system between unrelated donors and sellers. These elements are sustained and reinforced by a robust supply-and-demand interface anchored on brokerage pricing, government incapacity, policy contradictions and public tolerance or indifference.The study suggests that the relative ambiguity of, and continuity between, the legal and underground kidney transplant systems be carefully addressed prior to enacting more specific reforms. The study also calls attention to the unintended consequences of various reform efforts, which are often neglected in formulating health policy and evaluating its costs and benefits.

- by Roger Mendoza
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- Marketing, Nephrology, Transaction Costs, Philippines

Ros, AGM, Holm, SE, Fridé n, C, and Heijne, A.I.-L.M. Responsiveness of the one-leg hop test and the square hop test to fatiguing intermittent aerobic work and subsequent recovery. J Strength Cond Res 27(4): 988-994, 2013-The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the responsiveness of the 1-leg hop test and the square hop (SH) test to fatiguing intermittent aerobic work and during recovery. A further aim was to study sex differences in trends. Members of 4 subelite-level soccer teams were invited to participate. Ten men (mean 6 SD) aged 20.7 6 3.4 years and 10 women aged 21.8 6 4.8 years accepted to participate in the test. The Yo-Yo intermittent Endurance test Level 2, was used as a standardized sport-specific fatiguing protocol. The 1-leg hop test and the SH test were performed before, immediately after, 15, and 30 minutes after the fatiguing exercise. To quantify the level and progression of fatigue and recovery, blood lactate and heart rate were measured, and general fatigue was estimated on Borg's rating of perceived exertion scale. No significant difference in performance in either of the hop tests was found immediately after intermittent aerobic fatiguing work. Performance in the 1-leg hop test significantly decreased (p = 0.002), whereas that in the SH test increased (p = 0.001) between baseline and 15-30 minutes after fatiguing work. No significant difference in trends between sexes was found. The performance in the 1-leg hop test significantly decreased during 30 minutes of recovery compared with that in the nonfatigued conditions and might therefore be used on the field as a complement to other physical parameters to detect remaining fatigue. Note that the 1-leg hop test did not immediately respond to intermittent aerobic work. It is not recommended to use the SH test for measuring fatigue and subsequent recovery because the performance constantly increased despite the present objective and subjective fatigue.

- by Annette Heijne and +1
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- Strength & Conditioning, Adolescent, Fatigue, Heart rate

Bullying occurs at approximately the same rate in kindergarten as in elementary school, but few studies inquired into preschool years . This study aimed at: (1) verifying the presence in preschoolers of two additional participant roles (Consoler and Mediator), besides the six traditional roles detected by , grouped in four latent macroroles, by means of teacher report version of the Eight Participant Roles Questionnaire (PRQ) ;

- by Carmen Belacchi
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- Psychology, Bullying, Emotions, Italy

OBJECTIVE: Recently, new body indices, including body adiposity (BAI), a body shape (ABSI), and body roundness (BRI) indices have been developed to estimate adiposity. The aim of this study was to compare percent fat mass (%FM) with novel indices in an elite athlete population.
METHODS: Using a cross-sectional design, %FM in 159 male and 50 female athletes using a four-component model was assessed. The %FM was compared with body mass index (BMI), BAI, ABSI, BRI, and with other %FM field methods (bioimpedance spectroscopy and skinfold prediction equation). These associations were determined using multilinear regression analysis, which resulted in predictive models of %FM in athletes. Cross-validation was performed using the prediction residual error sum of squares (PRESS) statistics method.
RESULTS: Although higher associations than other indices were observed, BRI still presented low coefficients of determination (men: R(2) = 0.36; women: R(2) = 0.25) when comparing with other field methods (R(2) range, 0.33-0.75). Using BAI as the independent variable, the R(2) was 0.07 for men and 0.14 for women. ABSI did not result in a significant association with %FM in women (R(2) = 0.05) while in men a significant association was found (R(2) = 0.22). The BMI model resulted in a R(2) = 0.20 for men and R(2) = 0.22 for women. Waist circumference and the sum of skinfolds were the anthropometric variables with the highest association with adiposity. New alternatives were presented with higher coefficients of determination (PRESS R(2) ranged from 0.47 to 0.71).
CONCLUSIONS: The newly developed body indices are limited in predicting %FM in elite athletes, particularly when compared with other commonly and readily available field methods like bioimpedance analysis or skinfold prediction models.

- by Analiza Mónica Silva
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- Nutrition, Anthropometry, Multivariate Analysis, Body Composition

The United States is a country of immigrants. With the exception of Native-Americans, every other American is, or descends from, an immigrant. First and second generation immigrant children are the most rapidly growing segment of the American population, with the great majority of this population being of non-European origin. This paper reviews the unique risk factors and mental health needs of our new immigrant populations, as well as treatment and services approaches to address their unique needs.

- by Morton Beiser
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- Psychology, Mental Health, Social Support, Native American
- by Maria Antónia Rebelo Botelho
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- Nursing, Mental Health, Mental Health nursing, Stigma

Objective: The objectives of the study were to examine the prevalence of anorexia nervosa (AN), bulimia nervosa (BN), anorexia athletica (AA), and eating disorders not otherwise specified (ED-NOS) in both male and female Norwegian elite... more

- by Jorunn Sundgot-Borgen
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- Eating Disorders, Risk assessment, Adolescent, Sports

Objective: Examine the effect of different cleat plate configurations on plantar pressure during two tasks. Design: Thirty-six athletes ran an agility course 5 times while wearing 4 different types of Nike Vitoria Cleats: 1) Bladed, 2) Elliptical Firm Ground, 3) Hard Ground, and 4) Turf. Plantar pressure data were recorded during a side cut and a cross cut using Pedar-X insoles. Setting: Controlled Laboratory Study Participants: No history of lower extremity injury in the past six months, no previous foot or ankle surgery, not currently wearing foot orthotics, and play a cleated sport at least 2 times per week. Main Outcome Measurements: Contact area, total foot contact time, maximum force, total foot peak pressure, and the force-time integral (FTI) in the medial, middle and lateral regions of the forefoot. A 1x4 ANOVA (alpha=0.05) was performed on each dependent variable. A Bonferroni adjustment was conducted (α=0.008).

- by Michael Orendurff
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- Engineering, Education, British, Adolescent

There is much evidence to suggest that gender is an important factor in the modulation of pain. Literature data strongly suggest that men and women differ in their responses to pain: they are more variable in women than men, with increased pain sensitivity and many more painful diseases commonly reported among women. Gender differences in pharmacological therapy and non-pharmacological pain interventions have also been reported, but these effects appear to depend on the treatment type and characteristics. It is becoming very evident that gender differences in pain and its relief arise from an interaction of genetic, anatomical, physiological, neuronal, hormonal, psychological and social factors which modulate pain differently in the sexes. Experimental data indicate that both a different modulation of the endogenous opioid system and sex hormones are factors influencing pain sensitivity in males and females. This brief review will examine the literature on sex differences in experim...

- by Anna Aloisi
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- Pain, Gender, Medicine, Pain Management

The nature of the association between alcohol consumption and renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is not well understood, but there are indications of effect modification by gender. The authors report data from a populationbased case-control study conducted in Iowa from 1986 to 1989. RCC cases (261 men and 145 women) were identified through the Iowa Cancer Registry, while controls (1,598 men and 831 women) were randomly selected from the general population, frequency matched on age and gender. Subjects provided detailed information on a mailed questionnaire regarding demographic, anthropometric, lifestyle, dietary, and medical history risk factors. In age-adjusted analysis, there was a decrease in risk for women who reported consuming more than three servings (median among drinkers) of alcohol per week (odds ratio = 0.5, 95% confidence interval: 0.2, 0.9) compared with never drinkers. No evidence of an association among men was noted (odds ratio = 1.1, 95% confidence interval: 0.8, 1.5). Multivariate adjustment for anthropometric, lifestyle, smoking, and dietary factors did not alter the findings. Analysis by type of alcohol suggested that the inverse association was strongest for beer consumption, but estimates were imprecise. These findings suggest an inverse association of alcohol consumption and RCC development among women but not among men.

- by Charles F Lynch
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- Life Style, Diet, Medicine, Beer

Objective: To assess the extent of and the reasons for unclaimed prescriptions, primary non-compliance, after automated transmittals to pharmacies. Methods: Cross-sectional study in 3 health care districts (population 240,000) in the southernmost of Sweden on unclaimed electronic prescriptions (e-prescriptions), transmitted to 21 pharmacies during the period of 3 months (2000) and semi-structured interview study with patients not claiming their e-prescriptions transmitted to 4 pharmacies during a period of 3 weeks (2001). Main outcome measure: Proportion of unclaimed e-prescriptions of total number of (dispensed and unclaimed) e-prescriptions and reasons for primary non-compliance. Results: In total, 2171 (2.4%) e-prescriptions remained unclaimed at the pharmacies. The peak non-redemption rate was observed for those 15-24 years old (5.5%). The lowest rate was observed for those 65-74 years old. Men had a higher non-redemption rate than women. The highest rate for men was observed 25-34 years old (6.6%). Drugs for the musculoskeletal system (ATC group M) had higher non-redemption rates than expected (3.9%), and antibiotics (ATC-group J) lower (1.7%). Adolescents and young adults, 15-24 years old, had high non-compliance rates for drugs for the musculoskeletal system (14%) and anti-asthmatic drugs (11%). Of 78 interviewed patients, not claiming their e-prescriptions, 61% reported no need to have the prescription dispensed. However, unintentional non-compliance was reported by 28%, most of them were not aware that a prescription had been transmitted to the pharmacy. Thirteen percent reported that non-redemption had given further medical problems or made obtaining a new prescription necessary. Conclusion: Primary non-compliance was generally low, but there were differences related to age, gender and type of drugs. The most common reason reported for non-redemption was that the prescription was not needed, but some patients were unaware that prescriptions were issued and transmitted to the pharmacy.

- by Niclas Månsson
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- Adolescent, Hospitals, Clinical Pharmacy, Child
- by Kristin Mmari
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- Education, Qualitative Research, Adolescent Health, Adolescent

This assignment applies to all translations of the Work as well as to preliminary display/posting of the abstract of the accepted article in electronic form before publication. If any changes in authorship (order, deletions, or additions) occur after the manuscript is submitted, agreement by all authors for such changes must be on file with the Publisher. An author's name may be removed only at his/her written request. (Note: Material prepared by employees of the US government in the course of their official duties cannot be copyrighted.

- by Nico Creugers
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- Dentistry, Biomedical Engineering, China, Risk factors

During a period of 21 months an analysis was made of bacteremia caused by Staphylococcus aureus in a teaching hospital for adults. During the observation period staphylococcal bacteremia was detected in 77 patients, i.e. in 1.83 cases per 1,000 admissions. Not less than 81.8% of staphylococcal bacteremia cases were hospital-acquired. The age-specific attack rate increased consistently from the sixth decade onwards. The male/female ratio was 1.96: 1. If this ratio was related to the sex ratio of patients admitted to the hospital during the observation period, statistical significance was reached for the surplus of males. Staphylococcal bacteremia contributed to death in 14 of 47 patients, i.e. 18.2%. Intravascular infection was the most prevalent source of infection (25 of 77 cases, i.e. 32.5%). Serious complications were observed in 14 cases of staphylococcal bacteremia. Eight of these patients had endocarditis and four died. Tolerance was observed with nine of 77 strains and may have influenced the reaction to antimicrobial therapy in at least one case. Zusammenfassung: Bakteriiimien durch Staphylococcus aureus in einer holliindischen Universitiitsklinik. W~ihrend eines Untersuchungszeitraumes von 21 Monaten traten in einer Universit~itsklinik for Erwachsene 77 F~ille von Bakteri~imie durch Staphylococcus aureus auf (1,83 F~ille auf 1000 Einweisungen). Davon waren nicht weniger als 81,8% Hospitalinfektionen. Die altersbezogene Inzidenz stieg regelm~iBig vom sechzigsten Lebensjahr an. M/inner waren 1,96mal h~iufiger betroffen als Frauen. Dieser h6here Anteil von M~innern war signifikant, wenn man das Ge-schlechtsverh~iltnis aller im Untersuchungszeitraum aufgenommenen Patienten mit beriicksichtigte. Sta-phylokokkenbakteri~imie fiihrte bei 14 von 47 Patienten (18,2%) zum Tode. Die am h/iufigsten vorkommende Infektionsquelle war die intravaskul~ire Infektion (25 von 77 F~illen; 32,5%). Schwere Komplikationen wurden im Verlauf von 14 Bakteri~imien beobachtet. Acht dieser Patienten hatten eine End0carditis und vier verstarben. Toleranz wurde bei 9 von 77 Sta-phylokokkenst~immen gesehen; dies k6nnte das Ansprechen auf die antimikrobielle Therapie in zumindest einem Fall beeinflugt haben.

- by Wil Goessens
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- Adolescent, Child, Sex ratio, Infection

Study Objective. To determine if gender differences in the skill of using peak flow meters affect peak expiratory flow (PEF). Design. Prospective observational study. Setting. University classroom. Subjects. One hundred sixteen first-year pharmacy students (76 women, 40 men). Intervention. Students were taught correct use of a peak flow meter by means of classroom discussion and demonstrations. Measurements and Main Results. The students' technique in use of the peak flow meter was scored 3 times, and their PEF was recorded. Men scored higher than women (p=0.03) for the steps of "inhale fully" and "exhale as hard and as fast as you can" in the first attempt. Percentage increases in PEF did not significantly differ between the groups. Percentage change in PEF improved from the second attempt to the third attempt in women (p=0.036) but not men. On the third attempt, 13.2% of women versus 2.6% of men had an increase in PEF of more than 50% (p=0.1). Conclusion. This study found that men learned the correct technique for using a peak flow meter and attained their best PEF more quickly than women.

- by Andrea Franks
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- Asthma, Pharmacy Education, Gender Difference, Pharmacotherapy

Mental health outcomes for survivors of critical congenital heart disease (CHD) remain under-investigated. We sought to examine psychiatric disorders and psychosocial functioning in adolescents with single ventricle CHD and to explore whether patient-related risk factors predict dysfunction. This cohort study recruited 156 adolescents with single ventricle CHD who underwent the Fontan procedure and 111 healthy referents. Participants underwent comprehensive psychiatric evaluation including a clinician-rated psychiatric interview and parent- and self-report ratings of anxiety, disruptive behavior, including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and depressive symptoms. Risk factors for dysfunction included IQ, medical characteristics, and concurrent brain abnormalities. Adolescents with single ventricle CHD had higher rates of lifetime psychiatric diagnosis compared with referents (CHD: 65%, referent: 22%; P < .001). Specifically, they had higher rates of lifetime anxie...

- by Michael Rivkin
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- Pediatrics, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Adolescent

Title. 'Being a Chameleon': labour processes of male nurses performing bodywork. Aim. This paper is a report of a study examining the labour processes of male nurses in the conduct of bodywork, and is part of a broader study of social practices that configure masculinity through the lives of male nurses. Background. Bodywork is defined as the direct work on others' bodies, and involves interactions of bodies and the control of emotions. As the body is an arena in which social practice occurs then bodywork is a form of social engagement. Bodywork is inextricably intertwined with gender where bodywork is socially structured and culturally accepted as women's work. Method. Life history method was used in this study. Twenty-one life stories from male registered nurses were gathered in 2003-2004 using semi-structured interviews. Each life story underwent structural analysis, using a four-dimension structural model of gender relations. Findings. The ability of male nurses to do bodywork and provide care is dependent on the way they 'do' gender, that is, they have to be perceived to be performing the masculine identity that best represents the individual patient's ideology of what it is to be a man, which is set in a particular location and time. In addition, they have to counter the representations of the male nurse, whether it is homosexual, paedophile or heterosexual deviant. Respondents develop labour processes and workplace strategies to overcome the effects of gender stereotypes that may hinder their nursing work. Conclusion. Nursing procedures, policies and texts should reflect the complexity and multiplicity in the conduct of bodywork in nursing and refrain from representing essentialist ways (reinforcing nursing as feminine) of doing nursing.

- by Murray Fisher
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- Nursing, Communication, Masculinity, Qualitative Research

Background: Transcutaneous electrical stimulation (ES) is a therapeutic procedure used in rehabilitation. However, the effectiveness of it depends on sensory responses to pain and motor control in neuromuscular recruitment, considering the differences related to gender and age of the subjects treated, as well as the intensity and frequency of ES. Objective: To determine the threshold of sensory perception (TSP) and the threshold of motor response (TMR) in young and elderly individuals of both genders. Design: Randomized controlled clinical trial. Setting: General community. Participants: Eighty volunteers with no history of systemic diseases were selected to participate in the study: 40 men and 40 women were subdivided by convenience sampling and age group into young male and female (age 21.6 AE 2.4 years) groups as well as into elderly female and male groups (age 72.6 AE 6.1 years). Interventions: The participants received electrical stimulation (ES) at 5 and 50 Hz, with pulse durations of 20, 100, 400, 1000, and 3000 ms applied on the flexor muscle bellies of the wrist and fingers. Main Outcome Measures: TSP was identified as the first sensation of increased current intensity and TMR as the minimum muscle contraction detected. The results were submitted to analysis of variance, followed by the Tukey's test, with a significance level of 5%. Results: TSP was lower than TMR for all pulse durations, regardless of gender and age. In women, TSP was lower than that in young and elderly men at both frequencies. However, TSP was higher in elderly subjects than in younger subjects at 50 Hz for both genders. Age also affected the TMR, presenting higher thresholds in elderly subjects of both genders at 50 Hz; however the same occurred only in male subjects at 5 Hz. Conclusion: Age and gender interfere directly with ES. These variables should be considered during rehabilitation because they indicate that electrical stimulation in elderly women should be carefully performed, as they have lower thresholds than elderly men when polarized currents are used, and there is a risk of skin lesion because of their high thresholds.

- by Rinaldo Guirro
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- Pain, Young Adult, Clinical Sciences, Aged

The apolipoprotein E ε4 (APOE ε4) allele is a genetic risk factor for Alzheimer disease. Recently, depression has also become recognized as a risk factor for dementia. However, the possible effect of the APOE genotype on the association... more

- by Fumiko Irie
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- Depression, Major Depressive Disorder, Hawaii, Apolipoprotein E

Background: A multi pronged community based strategy, known as National Rural Health Mission (NRHM), was implemented from 2005-06 to 2012-13 in India to curtail maternal and child health (MCH) disparities between poor and rich, rural and urban areas, and boys and girls,. This study aimed to determine the degree to which MCH plans of NRHM implemented, and resulted in improving the MCH outcomes and reducing the inequalities. Methods: An explanatory sequential mixed methods study was conducted, first to assess the degree of implementation of MCH plans by estimating the budget utilization rates of each MCH plan, and the effectiveness of these plans by comparing demographic health surveys data conducted post (2012-13), during (2007-08) and pre-(2002-04) NRHM implementation period, in the quantitative study. Then, perceptions and beliefs of stakeholders regarding extent and effectiveness of NRHM in Haryana were explored in the qualitative study during 2013. A logistic regression analysis was done for quantitative data, and inductive applied thematic analysis for qualitative data. The findings of the quantitative and qualitative parts of study were mixed at the interpretation level. Results: The MCH plans, like free ambulance service, availability of free drugs and logistics, accredited social health activists were fully implemented according to the budget spent on implementing these activities in Haryana. This was also validated by qualitative study. Availability of free medicines and treatment in the public health facilities had benefitted the poor patients the most. Accredited Social Health Activists scheme was also the most appreciated scheme that had increased the institutional delivery rates. There was acute shortage of human resources in-spite of full utilization of funds allocated for this plan. The results of the qualitative study validated the findings of quantitative study of significant (p < 0.05) improvement in MCH indicators and reduction in MCH disparities between higher and lower socioeconomic groups, and rural and urban areas. Conclusions: MCH plans of NRHM might have succeeded in improving the MCH outcomes and reducing the geographical and socioeconomic MCH inequalities by successfully implementing the schemes like accredited social health activists, free ambulance services, free treatment and medicines in hospitals for the poor and in rural areas.

- by Onno Van Schayck
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- Program Evaluation, Child health, Qualitative Research, Urban Health
- by Theo Mulder
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- Attention, Running, Adolescent, Multivariate Analysis

This technique has potential applications in assisting difficult catheterizations, in interventional radiology and in angiography training. In all of these situations the method can be used to reduce the time of the procedure, the amount of contrast used and the radiation dose. REFERENCES PFIELER, M. and HAENDLE, J., 1975. State of the art and development tendencies of X-ray image intensifier TV systems. Electromedica, No. 5, pp. 152-1 55. DAMASCELLI, B., MUSMECI, R., PROSPERING G., SPAGNOLI, I. and USLENGHI, C , 1977. Selective and superselective angiography of the head and neck region. Electromedica, No. 1, pp. 21-25. REISMANN, B., 1979. The intra-operative use of the X-ray television chain with videorecorder-a contribution to a reduction of the radiation exposure and improvement in diagnostic reliability. Electromedica, No. 1, pp. 15-17.

- by Elizabeth Travis
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- Aging, RADIATION DAMAGE, Mice, Lung

The prevalence and associated factors of diabetes mellitus (DM) and impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) were studied in a tribal community with an apparently high diabetes prevalence. A sample of 724 subjects aged Ն 25 years was selected using a multi-stage cluster method and underwent a 75 g oral glucose tolerance test. The crude prevalence of DM and IGT were 8.3 % (men 9.9 %; women 7.5 %) and 7.9 % (men 4.1 %; women 9.7 %), respectively. Age-adjusted prevalence rates, according to the standard population of Segi, were 10.4 % (95 % CI 7.7-13.2) and 9.8 % (95% CI 7.2-12.5) for DM and IGT, respectively. No urban/rural differences were found in the prevalence rates of DM and IGT. New cases (5.1%) were almost twice as common as previously known cases (3.2 %). Family history of diabetes, obesity, and advanced age were associated with higher rates of diabetes. The results confirmed that diabetes is common in the Danagla community compared to other communities of northern Sudan. Varying environmental, nutritional, and genetic factors may contribute to this high prevalence. These findings will have profound impact on the health services for this community and the Sudan as a whole.

- by Ashraf Soliman
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- Obesity, Sudan, Oman, Blood Glucose

The purpose of this study was to validate the Portuguese translations of four cystic fibrosis quality of life questionnaires (CFQ). The first three were developed for patients with cystic fibrosis aged from 6 to 11 years, from 12 to 13 years and 14 years or more, while the fourth was developed for the parents of patients aged 6 to 13 years. The four CFQ translations contained from 35 to 50 questions covering nine domains and were validated as follows: translation from English to Portuguese, pilot application, back translation and then approval by the author of the English versions. The four translations were applied to 90 stable patients (30 from each age group) and the parents of patients aged 6-13 years (n = 60), on two occasions with a 13 to 17 day interval. Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC) were used to measure reproducibility. This study was approved by the Commission for Ethics in Research at the institution. Reproducibility was good (ICC = 0.62 to 0.99) for the four t...

- by Oliver Nascimento
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- Cystic Fibrosis, Quality of life, Language, Cultural Diversity

The clinicopathologic features of 1 18 granular cell tumors (GCT) encountered at two affiliated hospitals were reviewed. A total of 1 1 0 patients were affected over this 32-year period of study (7 1 men, 39 women), and in 5% GCT were multiple. Patients ranged in age from 16 t o 58 years (average 32 years) and were symptomatic for an average duration of 11 months prior t o diagnosis. There was a greater than expected frequency of GCT among black patients (29%). Although tongue was the single most common anatomic site involved, relatively more GCT (44%) occurred in skin o r subcutaneous tissue. Less common locations were breast parenchyma (10 cases), rectal mucosa and anus (6), vulva (4), esophagus and larynx (2 cases each). The correct preoperative diagnosis of this protean tumor was made in only three patients. GCT were surgically treated with the average diameter of resected tumor being 1.2 cm (range 0.2-3.5 cm). Pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia was noted in 11 tumors and in one vulvar GCT there was overlying in situ squamous cell carcinoma. Tumors were incompletely excised in 24 of 5 6 patients having adequate followup; only five of these 24 patients experienced a local recurrence of tumor. Malignant behavior was not observed. Results of histochemical and ultrastructural study are briefly discussed. The precise histogenesis of GCT is uncertain but Schwann cell origin is favored in most cases.

- by Geoffrey Rowden
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- Surgical Oncology, Differential Diagnosis, Carcinoma, Mouth Neoplasms

Background. Risk stratification and prediction of outcome in acute renal failure patients in the intensive care unit are important determinants for improvement of patient care and design of clinical trials. Methods. In order to identify mortality risks factors and validate general and specific predictive models for acute renal failure (ARF) patients in the intensive care unit (ICU), 324 patients were prospectively evaluated. Multivariate analysis by logistic regression was utilized for identification of mortality risk factors. Discrimination and calibration were used to evaluate the performance of the following models at referral to nephrologist and at initiation of renal replacement therapy: APACHE II, SAPS II, LODS, and ATN-ISI. Organ failure was assessed by SOFA and OSF. Results. The hospital mortality rate was 85%. The identified mortality risk factors were: age ! 65 yr, BUN ! 70 mg/dL, ARF of septic origin, and previous hypertension. Serum creatinine ! 3.5 mg/dL, systolic blood pressure ! 100 mm Hg, and normal consciousness were associated with mortality risk reduction. Performance of all prognostic models was disappointing with unsatisfactory calibration and underestimation of mortality on the day of referral to the nephrologist and at initiation of renal replacement therapy. Conclusions. Cross-validation of prognostic models for ARF resulted in poor performance of all studied scores. Therefore, a specific model is still warranted for the design of clinical trials, comparison of studies, and for prediction of outcome in ARF patients, especially in the ICU.

- by Luis Yu
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- Acute kidney injury, Survival Analysis, Multivariate Analysis, Acute renal failure

This paper investigates potential gender and age differences in conviction and crash occurrence subsequent to being directed to attend Iowa&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#39;s Driver Improvement Program (DIP). Binary logit models were developed to investigate the factors that influence conviction occurrence after DIP by gender and age. Because of the low crash occurrence subsequent to DIP, association rules were applied to investigate the factors that influence crash occurrence subsequent to DIP, in lieu of econometric models. There were statistical significant differences by driver gender, age, and conviction history in the likelihood of subsequent convictions. However, this paper found no association between DIP outcome, crash history, and crash occurrence. Evaluating the differences in conviction and crash occurrence subsequent to DIP between female and male drivers, and among different age groups can lead to improvements of the effectiveness of DIPs and help to identify low-cost intervention measures, customized based on drivers&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#39; gender and age, for improving driving behaviors.

- by Shashi Nambisan
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- Program Evaluation, Psychology, Educational Measurement, Automobiles
- by J. Stochl
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- Psychology, Cognitive Science, Culture, Laterality
- by Michael Dourson and +2
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- Algorithms, Monte Carlo, Risk, Multidisciplinary

Background: Stiripentol (STP) was approved as an orphan drug in 2007 in Europe as adjunctive therapy with valproic acid (VPA) and clobazam (CLB) for Dravet syndrome. Dravet syndrome is a highly pharmacoresistant form of epilepsy, which starts in early childhood. Data about STP pharmacokinetics and interactions are still limited and in part inconsistent. The aim of our study was to analyze the effect of age, gender, daily STP dose per body weight (milligrams per kilogram), VPA, CLB, and enzyme-inducing antiepileptic drugs on STP concentration-to-dose ratio (CDR), STP clearance, and STP trough concentrations.

- by T E Madiba and +1
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- Global Health, Uganda, British medical history, India