bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Frovatriptan as Preemptive Treatment for Fasting‐Induced Migraine
Authors: Latsko Meryl , Silberstein Stephen , Rosen Noah
Published: January 2011

Objective.— To examine frovatriptan's efficacy as preemptive treatment for fasting‐induced migraine.

Background.— Fasting is a common migraine trigger that cannot always be avoided. The development of a short‐term preemptive approach would be of benefit. Because of its longer half‐life, frovatriptan has been effectively used for short‐term daily use to prevent menstrually related migraines and might prove useful in the prevention of fasting‐induced migraine.

Methods.— This was a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, randomized, parallel‐group trial.

Subjects.— With a history of fasting‐induced episodic migraine were randomly assigned to receive either frovatriptan (5.0 mg) or placebo (ratio 1:1).

Subjects.— Took a single dose of study medication at the start of their 20‐hour fast. Information about headache intensity, associated symptoms, and use of rescue medication was captured at defined time points from the start of the fast through 20 hours post‐fast.

Results.— Of the 75 subjects screened, 74 subjects were randomized and 71 subjects completed the study. Demographic characteristics of the placebo and frovatriptan treatment groups were not statistically different. Thirty‐three subjects received active drug. Twelve (36.4%) developed a headache between 6 and 20 hours after the start of the fast (1/33 mild, 11/33 moderate or severe). In the placebo group, 18/34 (52.9%) developed a headache (4/34 mild, 14/34 moderate or severe). The difference between the 2 treatment groups did not achieve statistical significance; Pearson chi‐square, P = .172.

Kaplan‐Meier survival analysis showed no difference between the 2 treatment groups with respect to the time of onset of headache of any intensity (log rank, P = .264) and for the time of onset of a moderate or severe intensity (log rank, P = .634).

Conclusion.— More subjects on placebo developed a headache than those on frovatriptan. Perhaps because of the small number of subjects involved, the differences in headache incidences observed did not achieve statistical significance.
Factors determining response to antiepileptic drugs in randomized controlled trials. A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Rheims Sylvain , Perucca Emilio , Cucherat Michel , Ryvlin Philippe
Published: January 2011

Purpose: Because of the lack of head‐to‐head adjunctive‐therapy trials of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) in refractory partial epilepsy, meta‐analyses of placebo‐controlled randomized controlled trials (RCTs) represent a potentially important source of evidence to guide treatment decisions. However, such indirect comparisons raise various methodologic issues that may hamper their relevance.

Methods: All RCTs in adult refractory partial epilepsy were analyzed to assess whether efficacy outcomes are influenced by: characteristics of patients and trials ; use of last observation carried forward (LOCF) analysis; evaluation period (entire period versus maintenance period); and year of publication. A meta‐analysis of these AEDs was then performed taking these factors into consideration.

Key Findings: Sixty‐three RCTs evaluating 20 AEDs were included. The following variables influenced efficacy estimates: (1) responder rates correlated positively with duration of the entire treatment period (p = 0.038); (2) response to placebo was significantly greater in the maintenance period than in the entire treatment period (p = 0.005); (3) responder rates increased over the years both for AEDs (p < 0.001) and for placebo (p = 0.001); (4) LOCF analysis overestimated responder rates for AEDs (p < 0.001) and for placebo (p = 0.001) compared with completer‐based analysis, and the overestimation correlated positively with withdrawal rates (p < 0.001). A meta‐analysis of available data showed large differences in efficacy ranking in relation to dose selection and type of analysis, but these were mostly nonsignificant due to statistical power limitations.

Significance: Several methodologic issues hamper the relevance of indirect comparisons of AEDs in the adjunctive‐therapy of refractory partial epilepsy. Some of these issues could be overcome by improved standardization in the reporting of efficacy outcomes.
Cognitive development in Dravet syndrome: A retrospective, multicenter study of 26 patients
Authors: Ragona Francesca , Granata Tiziana , Bernardina Bernardo Dalla , Offredi Francesca , Darra Francesca , Battaglia Domenica , Morbi Monica , Brazzo Daniela , Cappelletti Simona , Chieffo Daniela , De Giorgi Ilaria , Fontana Elena , Freri Elena , Marini Carla , Toraldo Alessio , Specchio Nicola , Veggiotti Pierangelo , Vigevano Federico , Guerrini Renzo , Guzzetta Francesco , Dravet Charlotte
Published: January 2011

Purpose:  To clarify the role of epilepsy and genetic background in determining the cognitive outcome of patients with Dravet syndrome.

Methods:  In this retrospective study, we reviewed the clinical history and cognitive development of 26 patients who had been followed with standardized evaluations since seizure onset. The cognitive outcome was quantified as differential general quotient (dGQ) between ages 12 and 60 months. Statistical analysis correlated the dGQ with genotype and epilepsy course.

Key Findings:  Epilepsy started at the mean age of 5.6 months. All patients experienced prolonged convulsive seizures, whereas absences and myoclonus were reported in 17. Cognitive outcome was poor in almost all patients; the mean dGQ was 33 points, varying from 6–77 points. The analysis of individual cognitive profiles identified seven patients in whom the dGQ was <20 points; the main clinical characteristic in this subset of patients was lack of early absences and myoclonus. The statistical analysis of the whole series failed to reveal significant differences in cognitive outcome with regard to the presence of SCN1A mutations and their type. In particular, mutation‐carrier patients with the best cognitive outcome harbored either missense or truncating mutations.

Significance:  Dravet syndrome encompasses different epileptic and cognitive phenotypes that probably result from both genetic and epigenetic factors. In this series, early appearance of myoclonus and absences was associated with the worst cognitive outcome.
Comorbidities of epilepsy: Results from the Epilepsy Comorbidities and Health (EPIC) survey
Authors: Ottman Ruth , Lipton Richard B. , Ettinger Alan B. , Cramer Joyce A. , Reed Michael L. , Morrison Alan , Wan George J.
Published: January 2011

Purpose:  To estimate the prevalence of neuropsychiatric and pain disorders in adults with epilepsy in the United States.

Methods:  In 2008, an 11‐item survey including validated questions to screen for a lifetime history of epilepsy was mailed to 340,000 households from two national panels selected to be generally representative of the noninstitutionalized U.S. population. Information on epilepsy and other disorders was collected from 172,959 respondents aged 18 or older. Propensity scoring was used to match respondents with and without epilepsy on baseline characteristics and risk factors for epilepsy. Prevalence ratios (PRs) of comorbidities in respondents with epilepsy were calculated using log‐binomial generalized linear models. Comorbidities were categorized as neuropsychiatric (anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder, sleep disorder/apnea, and movement disorder/tremor), pain (migraine headache, chronic pain, fibromyalgia, neuropathic pain), and other (asthma, diabetes, and high blood pressure).

Key Findings:  Two percent (3,488) of respondents reported ever having been told they had epilepsy or a seizure disorder. Respondents with self‐reported epilepsy were more likely (p < 0.001) than those without epilepsy to report all six neuropsychiatric disorders (PR from 1.27–2.39), all four pain disorders (PR 1.36–1.96), and asthma (PR 1.25).

Significance:  Neuropsychiatric conditions and pain disorder comorbidities were reported more often in individuals with self‐reported epilepsy than in those without epilepsy. Identification of these conditions is an important consideration in the clinical management of epilepsy.
Bilateral hippocampal atrophy in temporal lobe epilepsy: Effect of depressive symptoms and febrile seizures
Authors: Finegersh Andrey , Avedissian Christina , Shamim Sadat , Dustin Irene , Thompson Paul M. , Theodore William H.
Published: January 2011

Purpose:  Neuroimaging studies suggest a history of febrile seizures, and depression, are associated with hippocampal volume reductions in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE).

Methods:  We used radial atrophy mapping (RAM), a three‐dimensional (3D) surface modeling tool, to measure hippocampal atrophy in 40 patients with unilateral TLE, with or without a history of febrile seizures and symptoms of depression. Multiple linear regression was used to single out the effects of covariates on local atrophy.

Key Findings:  Subjects with a history of febrile seizures (n = 15) had atrophy in regions corresponding to the CA1 and CA3 subfields of the hippocampus contralateral to seizure focus (CHC) compared to those without a history of febrile seizures (n = 25). Subjects with Beck Depression Inventory II (BDI‐II) score ≥14 (n = 11) had atrophy in the superoanterior portion of the CHC compared to subjects with BDI‐II <14 (n = 29).

Significance:  Contralateral hippocampal atrophy in TLE may be related to febrile seizures or depression.
Comparison of short‐ versus long‐term ketogenic diet for intractable infantile spasms
Authors: Kang Hoon‐Chul , Lee Yun Jin , Lee Joon Soo , Lee Eun Joo , Eom Soyong , You Su Jeong , Kim Heung Dong
Published: January 2011

Purpose: To compare the prognoses between short‐term (8 months) and conventional long‐term (>2 years) trials involving patients with refractory infantile spasms who successfully completed the ketogenic diet (KD).

Methods: Of 40 patients who achieved seizure‐free outcomes and showed improvement in hypsarrhythmic patterns within 6 months of the KD, with a 3:1 fat to nonfat ratio as an add‐on treatment, 16 patients were randomized into the short‐term trial group and the diet was tapered throughout two additional months. Twenty‐four patients were randomized into a long‐term trial group, and 19 patients could successfully discontinue the diet after 2 years. Primary outcome measures included seizure relapse and frequency of 35 patients for >12 months after successful completion of the KD.

Key Findings: Of 16 patients in the short‐term trial group, two patients relapsed with clusters of spasms, and one patient had recurrence of occasional focal seizures. Of 19 patients in the long‐term trial group, two patients progressed to Lennox‐Gastaut syndrome and one patient experienced recurrence of occasional focal seizures with secondary generalization. An early response to the KD, evidenced by short latency before seizure freedom and disappearance of hypsarrythmia and cryptogenic etiology, may indicate a successful early discontinuation of the KD. Significant growth failure was complicated only in conventional long‐term trial group.

Significance: Use of the KD for only 8 months in children who become spasm‐free appears to be justified, with similar outcomes, recurrence rate, and less growth disturbance than a longer‐term, traditional use.
Outcome of status epilepticus in children treated in the intensive care unit: A study of 302 cases
Authors: Kravljanac Ruzica , Jovic Nebojsa , Djuric Milena , Jankovic Borisav , Pekmezovic Tatjana
Published: January 2011

Purpose:  The aim of the study was to evaluate the outcome of status epilepticus (SE) in children and to define predictors for morbidity, mortality, and SE recurrence.

Methods:  The study included 302 children (age 2 months to less than 18 years; mean age ± SD 4.7 ± 4.2 years) with 489 episodes of SE. Etiology, treatment, and clinical and electroencephalography (EEG) features of SE and their impact on the outcome were analyzed. The outcome was classified into three categories: unchanged neurologic status, neurologic consequences, and lethal outcome. Univariate and multivariate Cox hazard regression analyses were used to define predictors of mortality, morbidity, and SE recurrence.

Key Findings:  Neurologic status was unchanged in 235 children (77.8%) and neurologic consequences occurred in 39 patients (12.9%); case‐fatality ratio was 9.3% and recurrence rate was 21%. Mortality was related to progressive encephalopathy, preexisting neurologic abnormalities, specific EEG findings, and generalized convulsive type of SE. Neurologic consequences were associated with younger age, progressive encephalopathy, duration of SE >24 h, prior epilepsy, and specific EEG findings. Multivariate analyses showed that etiology of SE and prior neurologic abnormalities were independent predictors of mortality, whereas younger age, etiology, and very long duration of SE were predictors of morbidity.

Significance:  Outcome of SE in children is favorable in most of the cases, but mortality and morbidity rates are still high. Etiology and prior neurologic abnormalities were the main predictors of mortality, whereas the main predictor of morbidity was underlying etiology.
Creation of an Aural Map: Convergence of Music and Biological Anthropology Methodologies
Authors: Achterberg Jerusha T , Pierce Anthony J
Published: January 2011

[commentary, Music and Sound, Biological Anthropology, research methods, quantitative mapping]
Making a Film about a Sound: The Steel Guitar from Hawaii to the Honky‐Tonk
Authors: Himpele Jeff
Published: January 2011

[commentary, Music and Sound, visual anthropology, Hawaii, North America, popular culture]
Thinking about Frances Densmore
Authors: Samuels David W , Porcello Thomas
Published: January 2011

[commentary, Music and Sound, Edison cylinder recorder, Mountain Chief, Native Americans, visual anthropology, National Anthropological Archives, North America, indigenous peoples, Blackfoot]
The Body in Sung Performance
Authors: Black Steven P
Published: January 2011

[commentary, Music and Sound, Music and Sound Interest Group, Zulu, gospel music, HIV, AIDS, South Africa, Southern Africa, jazz, North America, performance and festivals]
Outside the Music Box: A Manifesto
Authors: Bigenho Michelle
Published: January 2011

[commentary, Music and Sound, ethnomusicology, linguistics, history of anthropology, subdisciplines]
Anthropology and the Voice
Authors: Weidman Amanda
Published: January 2011

[commentary, Music and Sound, Chennai, India, Southern Asia, Kollywood, film industry, playback singers, performance and festivals, popular culture]
Aesthetic Experience and Applied Acoustemology: Blue Sky, White River Liner Notes
Authors: Spray Stephanie Anne
Published: January 2011

[commentary, Music and Sound, anthropology of sound, sensory ethnography, sound art, sound, art, Nepal, Central Asia, field recordings, acoustemology]
Aboriginal Australian Audio Media: Country, Radio and the Acoustic Imagination
Authors: Fisher Daniel
Published: January 2011

[commentary, Music and Sound, Australia, Australia and New Zealand, indigenous peoples, aboriginal radio]
2010 President's Report
Authors: Dominguez Virginia R
Published: January 2011

[association business, 2010 annual report]
Making Waves
Authors: Green Sarah
Published: January 2011

[association business, Annual Meeting, Montreal, 2011 Annual Conference]
Perspective from South Africa
Authors: Coplan David B
Published: January 2011

[association business, Committee on World Anthropologies, international meeting participation, foreign‐based scholars]
Human Rights in the United States, or Are Americans Human?
Authors: Wilson Richard Ashby
Published: January 2011

[human rights forum, North America, AAA Committee for Human Rights]

Gretchen E Schafft is contributing editor of “Human Rights Forum,” the AAA Committee for Human Rights column in Anthropology News.
Opera as Epistemological Indigeneity: TC Cannon's A Remembered Muse
Authors: Poon Elysia
Published: January 2011

[anthropology works, AAA Committee on Practicing, Applied and Public Interest Anthropology, Tosca]
A Survey of Obesity and Erectile Dysfunction of Men Conscripted into the Military in Taiwan
Authors: Chao Jian-Kang , Hwang Thomas I-Sheng , Ma Mi-Chia , Kuo Wu-Hsien , Liu Jiang-Hwa , Chen Yu-Ping , Lin Yen-Chin
Published: January 2011

Introduction

Obesity is receiving growing research attention. However, investigations concerning the potential impact of obesity and testosterone on erectile dysfunction (ED) in young men have not been completely clarified.

Aim

To identify the relationship between ED, serum testosterone level, and obesity in draftees in Taiwan.

Methods

Data were obtained from a baseline survey of 364 young adult military conscripts (19–24 years old). Their demographic data, body mass index (BMI), serum testosterone, and ED status were assessed. Sixty-four subjects had ED, and 300 comprised the normal control group.

Main Outcome Measures

The International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5), Sexual Desire Inventory, and Sexual Behavior Scale were used to assess ED, sexual desire, and sexual function.

Results

Three hundred sixty-four men were available for analysis. The mean age of the sample was 21.66 ± 0.92 years (19–24 years). The IIEF total score had a mean of 21.99 ± 2.34 and median of 23; 64 (17.6%) subjects had ED, although mild. The results showed an increased risk of ED among obese men and subjects with lower serum testosterone. Among the predictors of ED, obesity (odds ratio = 83.97, 95% CI = 16.17–436.03, degrees of freedom [d.f.] = 1, P < 0.001) and lower serum testosterone (odds ratio = 679.84, 95% CI = 108.48–4,260.58, d.f. = 1, P < 0.001) were significantly independent factors. Testosterone levels were lower in subjects with obesity (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

This study supports the idea that BMI and serum testosterone may provide warning signs of ED and, at the same time, an opportunity for early intervention in young men.
Neural Supply to the Clitoris: Immunohistochemical Study with Three-Dimensional Reconstruction of Cavernous Nerve, Spongious Nerve, and Dorsal Clitoris Nerve in Human Fetus
Authors: Moszkowicz David , Alsaid Bayan , Bessede Thomas , Zaitouna Mazen , Penna Christophe , Benoit Gérard , Peschaud Frédérique
Published: January 2011

Introduction

Little detailed information is available concerning autonomic and somatic nerve supply to the clitoris, potentially causing difficulties for nerve preservation during pelvic and perineal surgery.

Aim

To identify the location and type (nitrergic, adrenergic, cholinergic and sensory) of nerve fibers in the clitoris and to provide a three-dimensional (3D) representation of their structural relationship in the human female fetus.

Methods

Serial transverse sections were obtained from five human female fetuses (18–31 weeks of gestation) and subjected to histological and immunohistochemical investigations; digitized serial sections were used to construct a 3D representation of the pelvis.

Main Outcome Measures

Pelvic-perineal nerve location and type were evaluated qualitatively.

Results

The female neurovascular bundle (NVB) is the anteroinferior terminal portion of the inferior hypogastric plexus that runs along the postero-lateral then lateral face of the vagina and is rich in nNOS-positive fibers. The cavernous nerve (CN) is a thin ventrocaudal collateral projection of the NVB, and this projection does not strictly follow the NVB course. The CN runs along the lateral surface of the vagina and urethra and penetrates the homolateral clitoral crus. The CN provides adrenergic, cholinergic, and nitrergic innervation to the clitoris, but not sensory innervation. The spongious nerve (SN) is the terminal and main projection of the NVB and provides nitrergic innervation to the vestibular bulbs. The dorsal clitoris nerve (DCN), somatic branche of the pudendal nerve, runs along the superior surface of the clitoral crus and body and has a segmental proerectile nitrergic activity related to communicating branches with the CN.

Conclusions

“Computer-assisted anatomic dissection” allowed the identification of the precise location and distribution of the autonomic and somatic neural supply to female erectile bodies, providing an anatomical basis for nerve-sparing surgical techniques, and participating to the understanding of neurogenic female sexual dysfunction.
Impact of Sacral Neuromodulation on Female Sexual Function and His Correlation with Clinical Outcome and Quality of Life Indexes: A Monocentric Experience
Authors: Signorello Diego , Seitz Carl Christian , Berner Lucas , Trenti Emanuela , Martini Thomas , Galantini Andrea , Lusuardi Lukas , Lodde Michele , Pycha Armin
Published: January 2011

Introduction

Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) have a profound impact on physical, social, and sexual well-being. Sacral neuromodulation (SNM) may have a positive effect on sexuality, though few studies have so far evaluated its impact on female sexual function.

Aim

To prospectively assess changes in sexual function, clinical outcome and quality of life after SNM in female patients with overactive bladder (OAB) and their possible correlation with improvement in urinary symptoms and quality of life indexes.

Main Outcome Measures

Correlations between differences in Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) scores and in clinical outcome and correlations between differences in FSFI, SF36, and IQoL scores were evaluated by Spearman’s coefficient. Comparison between preoperative, midterm follow-up (MFU), and last follow-up (FFU) visits were performed by generalized linear model (GLM) for repeated measurements.

Methods

Between May 2003 and December 2008, 30 consecutive female patients (median age 53 years, range 35–79) with OAB underwent the two-stage procedure of SNM. Only 16 (53%) patients were considered eligible; these completed a bladder diary, the FSFI, the Status of Health questionnaire (SF36) and the Incontinence Quality of Life Index (IQoL) before implantation and on follow-up examinations.

Results

The results were analyzed before implantation, on MFU (median MFU 22.5 months) and on FFU (median FFU period 36.3 months). Regarding sexuality, the mean improvement in the total FSFI score was 27.9% on MFU and 29.3% on FFU. Only four patients (25%) showed a >50% improvement in global FSFI score on MFU, and 3 (25%) on FFU. A significant correlation was found between clinical improvement and improvement in sexual function. No significant correlation was found between differences in FSFI and quality of life indexes (IQoL and SF36).

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that improvement in the quality of sexual function in female patients with OAB correlates with improvement in urinary symptoms.
Vardenafil and Resveratrol Synergistically Enhance the Nitric Oxide/Cyclic Guanosine Monophosphate Pathway in Corpus Cavernosal Smooth Muscle Cells and its Therapeutic Potential for Erectile Dysfunction in the Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rat: Preliminary Findings
Authors: Fukuhara Shinichiro , Tsujimura Akira , Okuda Hidenobu , Yamamoto Keisuke , Takao Tetsuya , Miyagawa Yasushi , Nonomura Norio , Okuyama Akihiko
Published: January 2011

Introduction

Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors are very effective agents for erectile dysfunction; however, specific patient populations are hard to treat. The efficacy of PDE5 inhibitors is limited because a minimum amount of nitric oxide (NO) is necessary. Resveratrol, a plant polyphenol, is reported to activate endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) through activation of sirtuin 1. We previously reported that human corpus cavernosal smooth muscle cells (CCSMCs) express eNOS and synthesize cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) via the NO/cGMP pathway.

Aim

To investigate the ability of resveratrol and/or vardenafil to increase cGMP in an in vitro model using CCSMCs and to improve erectile function in an in vivo rat model of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes.

Methods

CCSMCs were treated with resveratrol and/or vardenafil. Twenty male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups (N = 4 in each group): age-matched controls, diabetic controls, and diabetic rats treated with resveratrol, vardenafil, or both in combination for the last 4 weeks of an 8-week period of diabetes induction.

Main Outcome Measures

Intracellular cGMP measurement, intracovernous pressure (ICP)/mean arterial pressure (MAP) ratio, and smooth muscle/collagen ratio.

Results

Intracellular cGMP level was elevated by resveratrol treatment in CCSMCs. The combination treatment of resveratrol and vardenafil had a synergistic effect. Diabetic rats showed impairment of erectile function. Treatment with either resveratrol or vardenafil improved ICP/MAP ratio, and combination therapy with resveratrol and vardenafil had a synergistic effect in improvement of ICP/MAP.

Conclusions

Treatment with either resveratrol or vardenafil elevated cGMP level in CCSMCs and improved erectile function in STZ-induced diabetic rats. Furthermore, a synergistic effect was observed in vitro and in vivo. Resveratrol or combination therapy of resveratrol and vardenafil can improve erectile function in which NO release is impaired, although further study is needed to confirm the results.
A Phase IV Prospective Evaluation of the Safety and Efficacy of Extended Release Testosterone Pellets for the Treatment of Male Hypogonadism
Authors: Kaminetsky Jed C. , Moclair Betsy , Hemani Micah , Sand Matthew
Published: January 2011

Introduction

Men with hypogonadism exhibit decreased serum testosterone levels and may experience a constellation of clinical symptoms, including decrease in muscle mass, loss of sexual desire, impotence, and infertility. While previous studies have shown that implantation of extended release testosterone pellets can provide therapeutic levels of testosterone over several months, additional data are needed to establish this approach as the standard of care for male hypogonadism.

Aim

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of testosterone pellets over 6 months as a treatment for male hypogonadism in a clinical practice setting.

Methods

A phase IV, single center, open-label study designed to assess the safety and efficacy of subcutaneous insertion of 8 to 12 testosterone 75 mg pellets (450 mg to 900 mg), during a single implantation procedure in hypogonadal men. Subjects who successfully completed the protocol were allowed to enroll in an extension study that included another implantation and 6 months of follow-up.

Main Outcome Measures

Safety was determined by investigator-reported adverse events, changes in vital signs, physical exam findings, and laboratory tests. Efficacy was based on serum laboratory tests, physical exams, implantation site evaluations, and vital signs. Secondary objectives were to assess patient preference for testosterone pellets and to maintain optimal total testosterone.

Results

Mean testosterone significantly increased and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels significantly decreased from pre-implantation values at weeks 1, 4, and 12, and had returned to pre-implantation levels by week 24. Prostate-specific antigen levels remained unchanged for the duration of the study. Improvements in several symptoms of hypogonadism were determined with multiple questionnaires. Implanted testosterone pellets were generally well tolerated.

Conclusion

Implanted testosterone pellets can normalize testosterone and LH levels and improve symptoms for at least 3 months and up to 6 months in men with hypogonadism, and should be considered as a therapeutic option for hypogonadal men.
Impact of Cannabis Use on Male Sexual Health
Authors: Shamloul Rany , Bella Anthony J.
Published: January 2011

Introduction

Cannabis (marijuana) is the most widely used illicit drug globally. Given the prevalence of nonprescription illicit drug abuse, there is a growing interest in the study of its potential effects on male sexual health. In this review, we discuss the effects of cannabis on male sexual health.

Objective

In this review, we discuss the effects of cannabis on male sexual health.

Methods and Main Outcome Measure

Critical review of scientific literature examining the impact of cannabis use on male sexual health.

Results

Studies examining the effects of cannabis use on male sexual function have been limited in both quality and quantity. Most results of these studies are conflicting and contradictory. While some did outline the beneficial effects of cannabis in enhancing erectile function, others did not. However, recent animal and in vitro studies have identified potential links between cannabis and sexual health. It appears that cannabis may actually have peripheral antagonizing effects on erectile function by stimulating specific receptors in the cavernous tissue.

Conclusions

Given the prevalence of cannabis use, and the potential relationships between use and the development of potentially hazardous effects on male sexual function, we encourage renewed use of research resources to determine in-depth mechanistic knowledge, and new clinically oriented studies examining the effect of cannabis on male sexual function.
Validity, practical utility and reliability of Actigraph accelerometry for the measurement of habitual physical activity in dogs
Authors: Yam P. S. , Penpraze V. , Young D. , Todd M. S. , Cloney A. D. , Houston‐Callaghan K. A. , Reilly J. J.
Published: January 2011

Objectives: To test the validity, practical utility, and reliability of the Actigraph GT3‐X accelerometer for measurement of habitual physical activity in pet dogs.

Methods: In the validation study, 30 dogs wore the accelerometer for 1 day while being filmed. Accelerometer and film were synchronised and 10‐minute periods of the filmed records were extracted with dogs in continuous periods of sedentary behaviour, light intensity physical activity indoors, light to moderate intensity physical activity outdoors and vigorous physical activity outdoors. For the ‐practical utility and reliability studies, 20 dogs wore the GT3‐X accelerometers for 1 week: practical utility was quantified as data loss and was also assessed by owner questionnaire; reliability was ‐determined by 2 to 7 days of monitoring using the Spearman–Brown prophecy formula.

Results: In the validation study, accelerometry output differed significantly between activity intensities (Friedman test, P<0·01). In the practical utility study, no data were lost from any dogs and dog ‐owners reported that accelerometry was well tolerated. Reliability of accelerometry output was high: for 3 days of wear, it was 91% [95% confidence interval (CI) 82 to 96] and for 7 days of wear, it was 94% (CI 88 to 97).

Clinical Significance: The GT3‐X accelerometer is valid, practical and reliable for the measurement of habitual physical activity in dogs.
Clinical characteristics, management and long‐term outcome of suspected rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder in 14 dogs
Authors: Schubert T. A. , Chidester R. M. , Chrisman C. L.
Published: January 2011

Objective: To describe the clinical characteristics, management and long‐term outcome in dogs with suspected rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder.

Method: Medical records and video recordings of 14 dogs with suspected rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder were reviewed and the owners were contacted via telephone or email for further information.

Results: Clinical signs included episodes of violent limb movements, howling, barking, growling, chewing, or biting during sleep. Episodes occurred at night and during daytime naps. The age at onset ranged from 8 weeks to 7·5 years with a median of 6 years but 64% of dogs were one year or less. There was no apparent sex or breed predisposition. Rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder events were reduced in severity and frequency in 78% of the dogs treated with 40 mg/kg/day oral potassium bromide. One dog was euthanised within 3 months of the onset of signs because of their severity. The duration of the disorder in the 13 surviving dogs ranged from 1·5 to 9 years. None of the dogs spontaneously recovered.

Clinical Significance: Rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder is suspected to occur in dogs, as it does in human beings. It causes concern to the owners and disrupts the home environment. Unlike human beings, rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder of dogs often has a juvenile onset.
Diseases in pet degus: a retrospective study in 300 animals
Authors: Jekl V. , Hauptman K. , Knotek Z.
Published: January 2011

Introduction: Degus are commonly used as laboratory animals; however, over the past few years, they have become increasingly popular as pets.

Objectives: The aim of this article was to present disease prevalence in 300 pet degus divided in two age groups (under and above two years).

Methods: Medical records of degus (Octodon degus), which were presented to the author’s clinic in the period from January 2007 to December 2009, were reviewed.

Results: The most common diseases in degus were (1) acquired dental disease (60·0%) with significantly higher prevalence in older animals (P<0.001), (2) skin alopecia due to fur chewing (13·33%) and (3) lens cataracts (13·33%). Other common disorders included traumatic injuries to soft tissues (bite wounds and tail slip), traumatic fractures and dietary diarrhoea. Reproductive disorders were most commonly associated with dystocia and pathological changes in the post‐natal period. Only 38 degus in a total of 300 animals were healthy.

Clinical Significance: This is the first study to describe the disease prevalence in two age groups of pet degus. The majority of diseases were caused by improper diet, self‐mutilation and improper handling; as such client education is necessary to avoid such a high disease prevalence.
Immunomodulatory drugs and their application to the management of canine immune‐mediated disease
Authors: Whitley N. T. , Day M. J.
Published: January 2011

This review summarises the current understanding of immune response and T cell subsets in the context of development of autoimmunity in the dog. Mode of action and rational usage in immune‐mediated disease in the dog are discussed for the following drugs: glucocorticoids, azathioprine, cyclophosphamide, ciclosporin, tacrolimus, human intravenous immunoglobulin, vincristine, danazol, leflunomide, mycophenolate mofetil and liposome‐encapsulated clodronate. Disease mechanisms are discussed and published evidence for drug efficacy is scrutinised for five important immune‐mediated diseases: immune‐mediated haemolytic anaemia, immune‐mediated thrombocytopenia, myasthenia gravis, glomerulonephritis and inflammatory bowel disease. Future strategies for more refined manipulation of adverse immune responses are presented.
RNA interference (RNAi) of Ufd1 protein can sensitize a hydroxycamptothecin‐resistant colon cancer cell line SW1116/HCPT to hydroxycamptothecin
Authors: CHEN Xiang , RAN Zhi Hua , TONG Jin Lu , NIE Fang , ZHU Ming Ming , XU Xi Tao , XIAO Shu Dong
Published: January 2011

OBJECTIVE: To investigate whether RNA interference (RNAi) of the ubiquitin fusion‐degradation 1‐like protein (Ufd1) could sensitize hydroxycamptothecin (HCPT)‐resistant colon cancer cell line SW1116/HCPT to the cytotoxic effect of HCPT.

METHODS: SW1116/HCPT cells were transfected with plasmids containing Ufd1‐specific small interfering RNA (siRNA) (Ufd1 knockdown cells) and non‐specific siRNA (control cells). A drug sensitivity analysis, 3‐(4,5)‐dimethylthiahiazol (‐z‐y1)‐3,5‐di‐ phenytetrazoliumromide (MTT) assay was performed on Ufd1 knockdown cells and control cells. After treating the cells with HCPT, a caspase‐3 and caspase‐4 activity assay, flow cytometric analysis and Western blot for detecting phosphorylated c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (p‐JNK), phosphorylated protein kinases B (p‐Akt), P53, ubiquitin, GADD 153 and Grp78/Bip were performed.

RESULTS: According to the MTT assay, the survival rate of knockdown cells was significantly lower than that of the control cells (P < 0.01). Both caspase‐3 and caspase‐4 activity assay showed higher activation level in Ufd1 knockdown cells than that in the control cells (P < 0.01). A flow cytometric analysis revealed more severe S‐phase arrest in the Ufd1 knockdown cells than that in the control cells (P < 0.05). The Western blot showed that increasing the concentration of HCPT resulted in a higher expression level of p‐JNK, P53, ubiquitin, GADD 153 and Grp78/Bip in the Ufd1 knockdown cells than that in the control cells.

CONCLUSION: Ufd1 plays a key role in HCPT resistance of SW1116/HCPT and RNAi of Ufd1 can sensitize SW1116/HCPT to the cytotoxic effect of HCPT via strengthening the activation of caspase‐3 pathway and disturbing endoplasmic reticulum functions.
Evaluation of DyScOx as an alternative blocking dielectric in TANOS memories with Si3N4 or Si-rich SiN charge trapping layers
Authors: Congedo G. , Spiga S. , Russo U. , Lamperti A. , Salicio O. , Cianci E. , Fanciulli M.
Published: January 2011

Dysprosium scandate DyScOx with a κ value of ∼20 has been investigated as blocking dielectric in charge trapping memory capacitors. DyScOx films with 28 and 18 nm thicknesses are deposited by atomic layer deposition on two different kinds of silicon nitride used as charge trapping layer, while SiO2 is used as tunnel oxide and TaN is used as metal gate. Memory capacitors with Al2O3 as blocking layer with similar equivalent oxide thickness (EOT) to DyScOx are also characterized as benchmarks. DyScOx thermal stability on both Si3N4 and Si-rich SiN at annealing temperatures up to 900 °C demonstrates the complementary metal-oxide semiconductor process compatibility of the oxide. Especially when deposited on Si-rich SiN, comparable program and slightly better retention performance with Al2O3 are observed for DyScOx, whereas erase still needs to be improved. Some variations in the electrical performance are found between the DyScOx-based stacks with different charge trapping layer and have been discussed. Scaling the total stack EOT by reducing DyScOx thickness from 28 to 18 nm allows a large program/erase window, but with the penalty of an increased charge loss during retention. Our results suggest that the key factors in further improvement of DyScOx as blocking dielectric are the dielectric quality and leakage current.
Cross-sectional scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy of semimetallic ErAs nanostructures embedded in GaAs
Authors: Kawasaki Jason K. , Timm Rainer , Buehl Trevor E. , Lundgren Edvin , Mikkelsen Anders , Gossard Arthur C. , Palmstrøm Chris J.
Published: January 2011

The growth and atomic/electronic structure of molecular beam epitaxy-grown ErAs nanoparticles and nanorods embedded within a GaAs matrix are examined for the first time via cross-sectional scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy. Cross sections enable the interrogation of the internal structure and are well suited for studying embedded nanostructures. The early stages of embedded ErAs nanostructure growth are examined via these techniques and compared with previous cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy work. Tunneling spectroscopy I(V) for both ErAs nanoparticles and nanorods was also performed, demonstrating that both nanostructures are semimetallic.
Formation of Pd nanocrystals in titanium-oxide film by rapid thermal annealing of reactively cosputtered TiPdO films
Authors: Huang Wan-Yi , Ding Shi-Jin , Chen Hong-Bing , Sun Qing-Qing , Zhang David Wei
Published: January 2011

In this article, the authors report a novel method for preparation of Pd nanocrystals embedded in TiO2 film; i.e., the TiPdO films are first deposited by reactively cosputtering Ti and Pd targets in a plasma mixture of O2 and Ar, followed by rapid thermal annealing (RTA). The experimental results indicate that the TiPdO film with a high content of Pd is inclined to produce big nanocrystals. Furthermore, the higher the RTA temperature, the bigger the Pd nanocrystals become. In addition, our analyses of the x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy spectra reveal that PdO, PdO2, Ti2O3, and TiO2 coexist in the as-deposited film, and the RTA at 600 °C leads to decomposition of the entire PdO2 and partial PdO, together with the growth of Pd nanocrystals. At the same time, the released oxygen oxidizes fully Ti2O3 into TiO2 during the decomposition. As the RTA temperature is increased up to 900 °C, more and more PdO is decomposed and the Pd nanocrystals become bigger and bigger.
Confirmation of sample quality: X-ray and ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopies of uranium dioxide
Authors: Yu S.-W. , Tobin J. G.
Published: January 2011

X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy have been utilized to demonstrate the sample quality of a UO2 specimen. This specimen is to be used in further studies with bremsstrahlung isochromat spectroscopy and Fano spectroscopy.
On the physical properties of In2O3 films grown on (0001) sapphire substrates by atomic layer deposition
Authors: Chi Wei-Hsu , Yen Kuo-Yi , Su Hsin-Lun , Li Shao-Cian , Gong Jyh-Rong
Published: January 2011

The properties of In2O3 films grown on (0001) plane sapphire substrates by atomic layer deposition using trimethylindium and nitrous oxide were investigated. Using x-ray diffraction and scanning and transmission electron microscopies, In2O3 films were found to deposit on sapphire substrates with their (222) planes parallel to the (0001) planes of sapphire. It was found that there were twin structures inside the In2O3 film with twin boundaries along the {112¯} planes. Most In2O3 films deposited on thermally annealed low-temperature-In2O3 buffer-layer-coated substrates exhibited high optical transmittance, low electron concentration, and high electron mobility. The best In2O3 film achieved shows an average transmittance of ∼90% in the visible regime with electron concentration and mobility being ∼2×1016 cm−3 and ∼60 cm2/V s, respectively, at room temperature.
Between Confidentiality and Scientific Exchange: The Place of Publication in Drug Discovery and Pharmaceutical Research
Authors: Clozel Martine
Published: January 2011

A combined preclinical and clinical publication might be the ideal approach in translational medicine.
Uroporphyrinogen Decarboxylase Is a Radiosensitizing Target for Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Ito Emma , Yue Shijun , Moriyama Eduardo H. , Hui Angela B. , Kim Inki , Shi Wei , Alajez Nehad M. , Bhogal Nirmal , Li GuoHua , Datti Alessandro , Schimmer Aaron D. , Wilson Brian C. , Liu Peter P. , Durocher Daniel , Neel Benjamin G. , O’Sullivan Brian , Cummings Bernard , Bristow Rob , Wrana Jeff , Liu Fei-Fei
Published: January 2011

Uroporphyrinogen decarboxylase inhibition sensitizes head and neck cancer to both radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
An Epigenetic Road to Genome Instability
Authors: Alumkal Joshi
Published: January 2011

The histone methyltransferase EZH2 promotes genomic instability and oncogenic signaling in putative breast cancer stem cells.
Bacterial Breakaway
Authors: Cheng Elaine
Published: January 2011

Peptides produced by
Staphylococcus epidermidis
promote dissemination of this bacterium from biofilms, leading to systemic infection in catheterized patients.
Rapid Acquisition of Gigapascal-High-Pressure Resistance by Escherichia coli
Authors: Vanlint Dietrich , Mitchell Rachael , Bailey Edward , Meersman Filip , McMillan Paul F. , Michiels Chris W. , Aertsen Abram
Published: January 2011

Pressure and temperature are important environmental variables that influence living systems. However, while they vary over a considerable range on Earth and other planets, it has hardly been addressed how straightforwardly and to what extent cellular life can acquire resistance to extremes of these parameters within a defined genomic context and a limited number of generations. Nevertheless, this is a very pertinent question with respect to the penetration of life in allegedly inhospitable environments. In this study, directed evolution was used to reveal the potential of the nonsporulating and mesophilic model bacterium
Escherichia coli
to develop the ability to survive exposure to high temperature or pressure. While heat resistance could only marginally be increased, our data show that piezoresistance could readily and reproducibly be extended into the GPa range, thereby greatly exceeding the currently recognized maximum for growth or survival.

IMPORTANCE
While extremophilic microorganisms generally serve as the reference for microbial survival capacities in inhospitable environments, we set out to examine how readily a mesophilic model bacterium such as
Escherichia coli
could build up resistance to extremes of temperature or pressure within a very short evolutionary time scale. Both heat and high pressure constitute ecologically important physical stresses that are able to irrevocably penetrate the entire cell. Our results for the first time establish that cellular life can acquire resistance to pressures extending into the GPa range.
Small RNAs in the GenusClostridium
Authors: Chen Yili , Indurthi Dinesh C. , Jones Shawn W. , Papoutsakis Eleftherios T.
Published: January 2011

The genusClostridiumincludes major human pathogens and species important to cellulose degradation, the carbon cycle, and biotechnology. Small RNAs (sRNAs) are emerging as crucial regulatory molecules in all organisms, but they have not been investigated in clostridia. Research on sRNAs in clostridia is hindered by the absence of a systematic method to identify sRNA candidates, thus delegating clostridial sRNA research to a hit-and-miss process. Thus, we wanted to develop a method to identify potential sRNAs in theClostridiumgenus to open up the field of sRNA research in clostridia. Using comparative genomics analyses combined with predictions of rho-independent terminators and promoters, we predicted sRNAs in 21 clostridial genomes:Clostridium acetobutylicum,C. beijerinckii,C. botulinum(eight strains),C. cellulolyticum,C. difficile,C. kluyveri(two strains),C. novyi,C. perfringens(three strains),C. phytofermentans,C. tetani, andC. thermocellum. Although more than one-third of predicted sRNAs have Shine-Dalgarno (SD) sequences, only one-sixth have a start codon downstream of SD sequences; thus, most of the predicted sRNAs are noncoding RNAs. Quantitative reverse transcription-PCR (Q-RT-PCR) and Northern analysis were employed to test the presence of a randomly chosen set of sRNAs inC. acetobutylicumand severalC. botulinumstrains, leading to the confirmation of a large fraction of the tested sRNAs. We identified a conserved, novel sRNA which, together with the downstream gene coding for an ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter gene, responds to the antibiotic clindamycin. The number of predicted sRNAs correlated with the physiological function of the species (high for pathogens, low for cellulolytic, and intermediate for solventogenic), but not with 16S rRNA-based phylogeny.

IMPORTANCEClostridia include major human pathogens and species important to human physiology, cellulose degradation, the carbon cycle, and biotechnology. Small RNAs (sRNAs) are increasingly recognized as crucial regulatory molecules in all organisms, but they remain virtually unexplored in clostridia. We provide the first comprehensive list of computationally identified and experimentally verified small RNAs in the genusClostridiumaiming to accelerate interest in and studies of small RNA molecules in a very important genus. The higher number of sRNAs found in clostridial pathogens suggests a good correlation between the physiological function or niche of the species and the number of predicted and conserved sRNAs. Our list of predicted sRNAs displays a strong enrichment of sRNAs upstream or downstream of ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter genes. This, combined with the identification of a conserved sRNA apparently involved in clindamycin resistance, provides a new perspective for future studies of possible regulation of antibiotic resistance genes by sRNAs in bacteria.