bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Arteriogenic Erectile Dysfunction Alters Protein Expression Within the Cavernosal Tissue in an Animal Model
Authors: De Young Ling , Bella Anthony , Howard Jeffrey , Brock Gerald
Published: February 2005

Introduction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a highly prevalent and often untreated condition. It may be a marker of underlying chronic illness and negatively impacts quality of life. Penile arterial insufficiency, frequently found in association with hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus, pelvic irradiation, trauma, and smoking, is the most common cause of ED.

Aim

This study was designed to measure the effect of penile hypoperfusion-induced alteration and injury on erectile tissue at the cellular and protein level.

Methods

Eighteen 4-month-old male Sprague Dawley rats were placed into three groups (n = 6): sham surgery, unilateral internal iliac artery ligation (UIIAL), and bilateral internal iliac artery ligation (BIIAL).

Main Outcome Measure

Erectile function was assessed 4 weeks following arterial ligation surgery as measured by a rise in intracavernosal pressure induced by cavernosal nerve stimulation. Penile tissue alterations were characterized by immunohistochemistry, protein content measured by western blot, and “global” protein expression profile carried out by using surface-enhanced laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (SELDI-TOF-MS) ProteinChip technology.

Results

Significantly lower intracavernous pressures were demonstrated in animals subjected to UIIAL surgery, which correlated to the extent of artery ligation. The intensity and quantity of immunohistochemical staining for neuronal nitric oxide synthase, endothelial cell integrity, smooth muscle cell α-actin, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor flk1 were decreased in the BIIAL group compared to sham controls. SELDI-TOF-MS analysis revealed changes in molecular expression of a ∼6,560 Da protein relative to a 7,720 Da protein (peak ratio = 1.34 ± 0.3, BIIAL; 0.36 ± 0.1 controls, P < 0.05).

Conclusions

In this report, an animal model of vascular penile insufficiency demonstrates altered protein expression associated with cavernosal tissue injury and reduced erectile function. Although the clinical significance of these observations is currently undefined, this model may allow greater insight into the complex biologic changes associated with arteriogenic ED in man.
Long-Term Effect of Inhibition of the Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) on Cavernosal Perfusion in Men with Atherosclerotic Erectile Dysfunction: A Pilot Study
Authors: Speel Tommy G.W. , Kiemeney Lambertus A. , Thien Theo , Smits Paul , Meuleman Eric J.
Published: February 2005

Introduction

Impaired perfusion of the corpora cavernosa is considered an important causal factor of erectile dysfunction (ED) in the aging male with atherosclerosis.

Aim

On the basis of this notion, we hypothesized that inhibition of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) may have a structural beneficial effect on cavernosal perfusion and subsequently on erectile function in men with impaired cavernosal perfusion.

Methods

A total of 59 men with atherosclerotic ED (mean age, 60.0 ± 6.8 years) and impaired cavernosal perfusion, as demonstrated with penile-pharmaco duplex ultrasonography, were randomized between an ACE inhibitor and placebo treatment arm. The minimum period of intervention was 26 weeks (26–46 weeks). The goal of the study was to demonstrate an improvement of (i) cavernosal arterial perfusion demonstrated by a decrease of blood flow velocity waveform; and (ii) erectile function in the erection domain of the International Index of Erectile Function.

Results

Cavernosal perfusion improved significantly (paired samples t-test, P < 0.05) in both study arms, but the improvement did not differ significantly (anova, P > 0.05) between both arms. The number of sexually active men increased, and the severity of ED decreased in both groups.

Conclusion

Although a persisting improvement of cavernosal perfusion by at least a 6 month-administration of an ACE inhibitor in men with advanced atherosclerotic ED could not be demonstrated in this pilot study, the beneficial effect on cavernosal perfusion, sexual activity, and erectile function in all participants of this study is remarkable. This pilot study warrants a follow-up study in sexually more active men with ED and less advanced atherosclerosis to show that ACE inhibition may result in persisting improvement of cavernosal perfusion.
Comparison of the Steady-State Pharmacokinetics, Metabolism, and Variability of a Transdermal Testosterone Patch Versus a Transdermal Testosterone Gel in Hypogonadal Men
Authors: Mazer Norman , Bell Damon , Wu Jingyang , Fischer Jerome , Cosgrove Michael , Eilers Barbara
Published: February 2005

Aim

To compare the pharmacokinetics (PK), metabolism, intra- and inter-subject variability of a permeation-enhanced testosterone patch versus a topical testosterone gel.

Methods

28 hypogonadal men were treated with a testosterone patch (5 mg/day applied at 2200 h) and a 1% testosterone gel (5 g/day applied at 0800 h; nominal delivery 5 mg/day), each for 14 days, in an open-label crossover design. PK profiles of total testosterone (TT) and calculated free testosterone (cFT) were measured on day 7 and day 14 of each treatment, with patches or gel applied to the abdomen; dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and estradiol (E2) profiles were measured on day 14. The time-average (Cavg), maximum (Cmax), time of maximum (Tmax) and minimum concentrations (Cmin) were derived from each profile. The intra- and inter-subject coefficients of variation (CVintra and CVinter) of the TT and cFT parameters were computed by ANOVA.

Results

Nightly applications of the patch produced a mean TT profile that mimicked the circadian pattern of healthy men. Morning applications of the gel produced a flatter mean profile; though individual subjects exhibited significant peaks at variable times. For TT, the mean and 90% confidence intervals of the patch/gel ratio of Cavg (1.030; 0.936–1.133; P > 0.05) and Cmax (1.086; 0.974–1.211; P > 0.05) met the criteria for bioequivalence. Cmin was lower for the patch. DHT levels and DHT/T ratios were 2 to 3-fold higher for the gel (P < 0.0001). E2 levels and E2/T ratios were comparable. CVintra and CVinter for Tmax approached 100% for the gel and were 23% and 42%, respectively, for the patch (P < 0.0001). Other variability parameters were generally comparable. Both products were well tolerated, and the patches adhered well.

Conclusions

These findings reflect the different mechanisms of transdermal absorption from the patch and gel and provide new considerations for selecting testosterone replacement therapies in hypogonadal men.
Early Experience with the American Medical Systems New Tactile Pump: Results of a Multicenter Study
Authors: Delk John , Knoll L. Dean , McMurray James , Shore Neal , Wilson Steven
Published: February 2005

Introduction

A new Tactile™ Pump for the American Medical Systems (AMS) 700 Inflatable Penile Prosthesis (IPP) had been developed in an effort to improve usability for the patient.

Aim

To assess the ease of use of the new Tactile Pump.

Methods

A prospective, multicenter study was conducted at four investigative sites. Preoperatively, patients completed an evaluation of the new Tactile Pump vs. the current design 700 pump placed in scrotal models. Patients compared the ease of inflation and deflation of each model. All patients were implanted with the AMS 700 IPP including the new Tactile Pump. Patients returned at 6 weeks for activation of the device and for follow-up evaluation at 3 and 6 months.

Main Outcome Measures

Preoperatively patients compared ease of use of the Tactile Pump vs. the current design. Postoperatively both physicians and patients assessed device functionality for inflation and deflation, ease of use of the pump, and time required to learn device operation.

Results

Thirty patients were implanted with the AMS 700 IPP and Tactile Pump. Thirty patients completed an activation visit, 20 patients completed the 3-month evaluation, and 9 patients completed the 6-month evaluation. The average age was 62.1 years. Primary erectile dysfunction etiologies included organic, nonspecific 10 (33.3%), vasculogenic 6 (20.0%), prostatectomy 6 (20.0%), diabetes mellitus 4 (13.3%), Peyronie's disease 3 (10.0%), and spinal cord injury 1 (3.3%). Preoperatively 93.3% (P < 0.001) of patients favored the Tactile Pump over the current pump on locating and working the inflation mechanism in the scrotal model. Patients also found the Tactile Pump deflation mechanism easier to find 100% (P < 0.001) and deflate 96.7% (P < 0.001). Most patients (86.7%) were trained to use their devices within 3 minutes.

Conclusions

The AMS Tactile Pump provides benefit to patients and physicians by improving ease of use and training over the current IPP 700 pump.
Adrian Walton Zorgniotti (1925–1994): Renaissance Urologist
Authors: Lizza Eli F.
Published: February 2005

Adrian Zorgniotti was born on March 3, 1925 and died on July 6, 1994. During his 47 years as a physician, he brought innovation and imagination to the field of Urology, especially in the field of erectile dysfunction (ED).

Biographical information was obtained from Dr. Zorgniotti's curriculum vitae, his published articles, and his eulogies. Several of his colleagues and peers were also interviewed by telephone. In addition, personal experiences of this author, from the 9 years we spent as associates, and of several other friends were recounted.

Dr. Zorgniotti's involvement with the history of Urology began in 1970 when he published his first historical treatise on Rome's first doctor, Arcagathus. He continued his involvement when he served as moderator for the History Forum of the American Urological Association (AUA) from 1975 to 1988 and as Historian for the AUA from 1979 to 1988.

This innovator brought vision to the field of ED when he introduced the combination of papaverine and phentolamine as an intracavernous injection for the treatment of ED. He also organized the first International Conference on Corpus Cavernolum Revascularization in 1978 at New York University and published long-term results with this therapy.

Adrian Zorgniotti will probably be best remembered by the multitude of Urologists whose lives he has touched for his generosity of spirit and for his ability to help shape our careers with a kind gesture, suggestion, or phone call. I am proud to call him a mentor, a colleague, and a friend.
Iron Isotope Constraints on the Archean and Paleoproterozoic Ocean Redox State
Authors: Rouxel Olivier J. , Bekker Andrey , Edwards Katrina J.
Published: February 2005

The response of the ocean redox state to the rise of atmospheric oxygen about 2.3 billion years ago (Ga) is a matter of controversy. Here we provide iron isotope evidence that the change in the ocean iron cycle occurred at the same time as the change in the atmospheric redox state. Variable and negative iron isotope values in pyrites older than about 2.3 Ga suggest that an iron-rich global ocean was strongly affected by the deposition of iron oxides. Between 2.3 and 1.8 Ga, positive iron isotope values of pyrite likely reflect an increase in the precipitation of iron sulfides relative to iron oxides in a redox stratified ocean.
Terrestrial Gamma-Ray Flashes Observed up to 20 MeV
Authors: Smith David M. , Lopez Liliana I. , Lin R. P. , Barrington-Leigh Christopher P.
Published: February 2005

Terrestrial gamma-ray flashes (TGFs) from Earth's upper atmosphere have been detected with the Reuven Ramaty High Energy Solar Spectroscopic Imager (RHESSI) satellite. The gamma-ray spectra typically extend up to 10 to 20 megaelectron volts (MeV); a simple bremsstrahlung model suggests that most of the electrons that produce the gamma rays have energies on the order of 20 to 40 MeV. RHESSI detects 10 to 20 TGFs per month, corresponding to ∼50 per day globally, perhaps many more if they are beamed. Both the frequency of occurrence and maximum photon energy are more than an order of magnitude higher than previously known for these events.
Efficient Bipedal Robots Based on Passive-Dynamic Walkers
Authors: Collins Steve , Ruina Andy , Tedrake Russ , Wisse Martijn
Published: February 2005

Passive-dynamic walkers are simple mechanical devices, composed of solid parts connected by joints, that walk stably down a slope. They have no motors or controllers, yet can have remarkably humanlike motions. This suggests that these machines are useful models of human locomotion; however, they cannot walk on level ground. Here we present three robots based on passive-dynamics, with small active power sources substituted for gravity, which can walk on level ground. These robots use less control and less energy than other powered robots, yet walk more naturally, further suggesting the importance of passive-dynamics in human locomotion.
Golgin Tethers Define Subpopulations of COPI Vesicles
Authors: Malsam Jörg , Satoh Ayano , Pelletier Laurence , Warren Graham
Published: February 2005

Coiled-coil proteins of the golgin family have been implicated in intra-Golgi transport through tethering coat protein complex I (COPI) vesicles. The p115-golgin tether is the best studied, and here we characterize the golgin-84–CASP tether. The vesicles bound by this tether were strikingly different from those bound by the p115-golgin tether in that they lacked members of the p24 family of putative cargo receptors and contained enzymes instead of anterograde cargo. Microinjected golgin-84 or CASP also inhibited Golgi-enzyme transport to the endoplasmic reticulum, further implicating this tether in retrograde transport. These and other golgins may modulate the flow patterns within the Golgi stack.
Oxidative Addition of Ammonia to Form a Stable Monomeric Amido Hydride Complex
Authors: Zhao Jing , Goldman Alan S. , Hartwig John F.
Published: February 2005

The insertion of an iridium complex into an N-H bond in ammonia leads to a stable monomeric amido hydride complex in solution at room temperature. This reaction advances the transition-metal coordination chemistry of ammonia beyond its role for more than a century as an ancillary ligand. The precursor for this insertion reaction is an iridium(I) olefin complex with an aliphatic ligand containing one carbon and two phosphorus donor atoms. Kinetic and isotopic labeling studies indicate that olefin dissociates to give a 14-electron iridium(I) fragment, which then reacts with ammonia. This cleavage of the N-H bond under neutral conditions provides a foundation on which to develop future mild catalytic transformations of ammonia, such as olefin hydroamination and arene oxidative amination.
INTEGRABILITY OF PLANE FIELDS DEFINED BY 2-VECTOR FIELDS
Authors: MIKAMI KENTARO , MIZUTANI TADAYOSHI
Published: February 2005

Given a 2-vector field on a manifold, first we briefly discuss the complete integrability of the distribution which is the image of the 2-vector field. Then we show that a new Lie algebroid is defined on such a maniold which is coincident with the cotangent Lie algebroid when the 2-vector field is Poisson. The result is extended to the case of Lie algebroids.
MONOTONE OPERATOR FUNCTIONS ON C*-ALGEBRAS
Authors: OSAKA HIROYUKI , SILVESTROV SERGEI , TOMIYAMA JUN
Published: February 2005

The article is devoted to investigation of classes of functions monotone as functions on general C*-algebras that are not necessarily the C*-algebra of all bounded linear operators on a Hilbert space as in classical case of matrix and operator monotone functions. We show that for general C*-algebras the classes of monotone functions coincide with the standard classes of matrix and operator monotone functions. For every class we give exact characterization of C*-algebras with this class of monotone functions, providing at the same time a monotonicity characterization of subhomogeneous C*-algebras. We use this result to generalize characterizations of commutativity of a C*-algebra based on monotonicity conditions for a single function to characterizations of subhomogeneity. As a C*-algebraic counterpart of standard matrix and operator monotone scaling, we investigate, by means of projective C*-algebras and relation lifting, the existence of C*-subalgebras of a given monotonicity class.
A multimedia CD-ROM tool to improve student understanding of bile salts and bilirubin metabolism: evaluation of its use in a medical hybrid PBL course
Authors: Azer Samy A.
Published: February 2005

Over the last 35 years our understanding of bile salts, bilirubin metabolism, and hepatobiliary transport has progressively increased. From 1965 to the end of 2002, 3,610 articles and review papers have been published on hepatobiliary and enterocyte transport of bile salts. However, there is a lack of information in the content of current textbooks about hepatobiliary physiology, bile salt transporters, bile formation, mechanisms underlying cholestasis, and drug-induced liver injury. The use of an integrated multimedia program on the liver covering these gaps in textbooks may be useful to student learning. This study aims to 1) assess student views on a multimedia CD-ROM (“The Liver”) integrating basic and clinical sciences related to the liver, bile salts, and bilirubin metabolism, 2) assess the usefulness of problem-based learning (PBL) cases included in the multimedia CD-ROM, and 3) assess student learning before and after use of the multimedia CD-ROM. A total of 106 first-year medical students (27 with and 79 without a prior university degree) at the University of Melbourne participated in this study. Students were tested on the liver, bile salts, and bilirubin metabolism before and after using the multimedia CD-ROM. After completing the multimedia CD-ROM, each student filled out a 5-point Likert scale questionnaire evaluating the features of the program and its usefulness to their learning. Results show that the aims of the package were clear to participants, the contents were logically organized and clear, the key concepts were easy to identify, the contents were pitched to an appropriate level, and the package was interactive and encouraged participants to reflect on their learning. Students also agreed that the assessment tools used in the program and the feedback provided were meaningful and helpful to their learning. No differences were found when responses were compared on the basis of academic background, gender, citizenship, or first language of participants. Students agreed that the PBL cases in the CD-ROM kept them engaged, were useful to their learning, and matched with the overall philosophy of the program. Compared with graduate-entry students (those with a prior university degree), school leavers (those with no prior university degree) showed a more positive attitude toward the PBL cases included in the multimedia CD-ROM and agreed that cases kept them engaged ( P = 0.033). Students who completed the test after using the multimedia CD-ROM scored higher compared with those who completed the test before using the multimedia CD-ROM ( P <0.001). In conclusion, using bile salts, bilirubin metabolism, and their hepatobiliary transport as an example, the incorporation of a multimedia CD-ROM into the first-year medical course has the potential to improve student understanding of the main concepts in a variety of body systems.
Blending problem-based learning with Web technology positively impacts student learning outcomes in acid-base physiology
Authors: Taradi Sunčana Kukolja , Taradi Milan , Radić Krešimir , Pokrajac Nikša
Published: February 2005

World Wide Web (Web)-based learning (WBL), problem-based learning (PBL), and collaborative learning are at present the most powerful educational options in higher education. A blended (hybrid) course combines traditional face-to-face and WBL approaches in an educational environment that is nonspecific as to time and place. To provide educational services for an undergraduate second-year elective course in acid-base physiology, a rich, student-centered educational Web-environment designed to support PBL was created by using Web Course Tools courseware. The course is designed to require students to work in small collaborative groups using problem solving activities to develop topic understanding. The aim of the study was to identify the impact of the blended WBL-PBL-collaborative learning environment on student learning outcomes. Student test scores and satisfaction survey results from a blended WBL-PBL-based test group ( n = 37) were compared with a control group whose instructional opportunities were from a traditional in-class PBL model ( n = 84). WBL students scored significantly ( t = 3.3952; P = 0.0009) better on the final acid-base physiology examination and expressed a positive attitude to the new learning environment in the satisfaction survey. Expressed in terms of a difference effect, the mean of the treated group (WBL) is at the 76th percentile of the untreated (face-to-face) group, which stands for a “medium” effect size. Thus student progress in the blended WBL-PBL collaborative environment was positively affected by the use of technology.
“Non-Trivial Pursuit of Physiology”
Authors: Zakaryan Vazgen , Bliss Richard , Sarvazyan Narine
Published: February 2005

This article describes a novel way to conduct a review session that combines interactivity, team learning, and peer-to-peer instruction. It uses the format of the familiar game “Trivial Pursuit.” To facilitate the game process and to encourage its use by others, we have developed custom software. It allows an instructor to run the game from the podium and to input questions/answers for a particular block or other area to be reviewed. In addition to the software itself, the online supplement ( http://advan.physiology.org/cgi/content/full/00031.2004/DC1 ) contains 100 sample questions and answers written for the cardiovascular physiology review session. The developed game format and its software add to the arsenal of educational tools that can be used to enrich students’ learning experiences.
Chewing over physiology integration
Authors: Abdulkader Fernando , Azevedo-Martins Anna Karenina , de Arcisio Miranda Manoel , Brunaldi Kellen
Published: February 2005

An important challenge for both students and teachers of physiology is to integrate the different areas in which physiological knowledge is didactically divided. In developing countries, such an issue is even more demanding, because budget restrictions often affect the physiology program with laboratory classes being the first on the list when it comes to cuts in expenses. With the aim of addressing this kind of problem, the graduate students of our department organized a physiology summer course offered to undergraduate students. The objective was to present the different physiological systems in an integrated fashion. The strategy pursued was to plan laboratory classes whose experimental results were the basis for the relevant theoretical discussions. The subject we developed to illustrate physiology integration was the study of factors influencing salivary secretion.
TNF-α-mediated apoptosis in vascular smooth muscle cells requires p73
Authors: Tang Vincent , Dhirapong Amy , Yabes Annoel P. , Weiss Robert H.
Published: February 2005

Atherosclerosis, now considered an inflammatory process, is the leading cause of death in the Western world and is manifested by a variety of diseases in multiple organ systems. Because of its prevalence and associated morbidity, novel therapies directed at arresting this progressive process are urgently needed. The inflammatory mediator TNF-α, which is known to contribute to apoptosis in vascular smooth muscle cells, has been shown to be intimately involved in the atherosclerotic process, being present at elevated levels in human atheroma as well as possibly being responsible for plaque rupture, a clinically devastating event. In light of our earlier finding that p73 is a proapoptotic protein in vascular smooth muscle cells, which are involved in plaque progression as well as rupture, we asked whether TNF-α mediates apoptosis in these cells through p73. We now show that p73 is present in spindle-shaped cells within human atheroma, and p73β, an isoform that is pivotal in both apoptosis and growth suppression, is induced in vascular smooth muscle cells in vitro by serum but not by PDGF-BB. In addition, TNF-α, when added to these cells in the presence of serum-containing media, increases p73β expression and causes apoptosis in both rat and human vascular smooth muscle cells. Inhibition of p73 activity with a dominant inhibitory NH2-terminally deleted p73 plasmid results in markedly decreased TNF-α-induced apoptosis. Thus p73β is likely a mediator of the apoptotic effect of TNF-α in the vasculature, such that future targeting of the p73 isoforms may ultimately prove useful in novel atherosclerosis therapies.
Voluntary exercise training enhances glucose transport but not insulin signaling capacity in muscle of hypertensive TG(mREN2)27 rats
Authors: Lemieux Andrew M. , Diehl Cody J. , Sloniger Julie A. , Henriksen Erik J.
Published: February 2005

Male heterozygous TG(mREN2)27 rats (TGR) overexpress a murine renin transgene, display marked hypertension, and have insulin resistance of skeletal muscle glucose transport and insulin signaling. We have shown previously that voluntary exercise training by TGR improves insulin-mediated skeletal muscle glucose transport (Kinnick TR, Youngblood EB, O’Keefe MP, Saengsirisuwan V, Teachey MK, and Henriksen EJ. J Appl Physiol 93: 805–812, 2002). The present study evaluated whether this training-induced enhancement of muscle glucose transport is associated with upregulation of critical insulin signaling elements, including insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, Akt, and glycogen synthase kinase-3. TGR remained sedentary or ran spontaneously in activity wheels for 6 wk, averaging 7.1 ± 0.8 km/day by the end of week 3 and 4.3 ± 0.5 km/day over the final week of training. Exercise training reduced total abdominal fat by 20% ( P < 0.05) in TGR runners (2.64 ± 0.01% of body weight) compared with sedentary TGR controls (3.28 ± 0.01%). Insulin-stimulated (2 mU/ml) glucose transport activity in soleus muscle was 36% greater in TGR runners compared with sedentary TGR controls. However, the protein expression and functionality of tyrosine phosphorylation of insulin receptor and IRS-1, IRS-1 associated with the p85 regulatory subunit of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, and Ser473 phosphorylation of Akt were not altered by exercise training. Only insulin-stimulated glycogen synthase kinase-3β Ser9 phosphorylation was increased (22%) by exercise training. These results indicate that voluntary exercise training in TGR can enhance insulin-mediated glucose transport in skeletal muscle, as well as reduce total abdominal fat mass. However, this adaptive response in muscle occurs independently of modifications in the proximal elements of the insulin signaling cascade.
Laryngeal chemoreflexes induced by acid, water, and saline in nonsedated newborn lambs during quiet sleep
Authors: St-Hilaire Marie , Nsegbe Élise , Gagnon-Gervais Karine , Samson Nathalie , Moreau-Bussière François , Fortier Pierre-Hugues , Praud Jean-Paul
Published: February 2005

Laryngeal chemoreflexes (LCR) are triggered by the contact of assorted liquids with the laryngeal mucosa. In the neonatal period, the immature LCR consist primarily of apnea and bradycardia, which at times can be life threatening. The aim of this study was to assess LCR induction in nonsedated, newborn full-term lambs by several acid solutions, compared with distilled water and saline. Twelve lambs were instrumented for recording of glottal adductor and diaphragm EMG, EEG, eye movements, heart rate, systemic arterial pressure, and respiratory movements. LCR were induced during quiet sleep by the injection (0.5 ml) of saline, distilled water or two acid solutions (HCl and citric acid, pH 2, diluted in either water or saline). A chronic supraglottal catheter was used to inject the solutions in a random order. Distilled water and acid solutions did not induce any significant decrease in heart rate or respiratory rate. However, significant lower airway protective responses (swallowing, cough, and arousal) were observed after distilled water and especially acid solution administration. In conclusion, LCR in full-term lambs, particularly with acid solutions, are merely characterized by lower airway protective responses resembling mature LCR reported in adult mammals.
Distinguishable Brain Activation Networks for Short- and Long-Term Motor Skill Learning
Authors: Floyer-Lea A. , Matthews P. M.
Published: February 2005

The acquisition of a new motor skill is characterized first by a short-term, fast learning stage in which performance improves rapidly, and subsequently by a long-term, slower learning stage in which additional performance gains are incremental. Previous functional imaging studies have suggested that distinct brain networks mediate these two stages of learning, but direct comparisons using the same task have not been performed. Here we used a task in which subjects learn to track a continuous 8-s sequence demanding variable isometric force development between the fingers and thumb of the dominant, right hand. Learning-associated changes in brain activation were characterized using functional MRI (fMRI) during short-term learning of a novel sequence, during short-term learning after prior, brief exposure to the sequence, and over long-term (3 wk) training in the task. Short-term learning was associated with decreases in activity in the dorsolateral prefrontal, anterior cingulate, posterior parietal, primary motor, and cerebellar cortex, and with increased activation in the right cerebellar dentate nucleus, the left putamen, and left thalamus. Prefrontal, parietal, and cerebellar cortical changes were not apparent with short-term learning after prior exposure to the sequence. With long-term learning, increases in activity were found in the left primary somatosensory and motor cortex and in the right putamen. Our observations extend previous work suggesting that distinguishable networks are recruited during the different phases of motor learning. While short-term motor skill learning seems associated primarily with activation in a cortical network specific for the learned movements, long-term learning involves increased activation of a bihemispheric cortical-subcortical network in a pattern suggesting “plastic” development of new representations for both motor output and somatosensory afferent information.
5-HT1B Receptor-Mediated Presynaptic Inhibition of GABA Release in the Suprachiasmatic Nucleus
Authors: Bramley Jayne R. , Sollars Patricia J. , Pickard Gary E. , Dudek F. Edward
Published: February 2005

The suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) receives a dense serotonergic innervation that modulates photic input to the SCN via serotonin 1B (5-HT1B) presynaptic receptors on retinal glutamatergic terminals. However, the majority of 5-HT1B binding sites in the SCN are located on nonretinal terminals and most axonal terminals in the SCN are GABAergic. We therefore tested the hypothesis that 5-HT1B receptors might also be located on SCN GABAergic terminals by examining the effects of the highly selective 5-HT1B receptor agonist CP-93,129 on SCN miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents (mIPSCs). Whole cell patch-clamp recordings of mIPSCs were obtained from rat and mouse SCN neurons in hypothalamic slices. Using CsCl-containing microelectrodes with QX314, we isolated mPSCs that were sensitive to the GABAA receptor antagonist, bicuculline. Bath application of CP-93,129 (1 μM) decreased the frequency of mIPSCs by an average of 22% ( n = 7) in rat SCN neurons and by an average of 30% ( n = 8) in mouse SCN neurons with no clear effect on mIPSC amplitude. In mice lacking functional 5-HT1B receptors, CP-93,129 (1 μM) had no clear effect on the frequency or the amplitude of mIPSCs recorded in any of the cells tested ( n = 4). The decrease in the frequency of mIPSCs of SCN neurons produced by the selective 5-HT1B receptor agonist CP-93,129 is consistent with the interpretation that 5-HT1B receptors are located on GABA terminals in the SCN and that 5-HT inhibits GABA release via a 5-HT1B presynaptic receptor-mediated mechanism.
Effects of Aging on the Regularity of Physiological Tremor
Authors: Sturman Molly M. , Vaillancourt David E. , Corcos Daniel M.
Published: February 2005

The purpose of this investigation was to determine the effects of healthy aging on the regularity of physiological tremor under rest and postural conditions. Additionally, we examined the contribution of mechanical reflex factors to age-related changes in postural physiological tremor. Tremor regularity, tremor–electromyographic (EMG) coherence, tremor amplitude, and tremor modal frequency were calculated for 4 age groups (young: 20–30 yr, young-old: 60–69 yr, old: 70–79 yr, and old-old: 80–94 yr) under resting and loaded postural conditions. There were 6 important findings from this study: 1) there were no differences between the young and elderly subjects for any of the dependent variables measured under the rest condition; 2) postural physiological tremor regularity was increased in the elderly; 3) postural physiological tremor-EMG coherence was also increased in the elderly, and there was a strong linear relation between peak tremor-EMG coherence in the 1- to 8-Hz frequency band and regularity of tremor. This relation was primarily driven by the increased magnitude of tremor-EMG coherence at 5.85 and 6.83 Hz; 4) enhanced mechanical reflex properties were not responsible for the increased magnitude of tremor-EMG coherence in the elderly subjects; 5) tremor amplitude was not different between the 4 age groups, but there was a slight decline in tremor modal frequency in the oldest age group in the unloaded condition; and 6) despite the increases in postural physiological tremor regularity and the magnitude of low frequency tremor-EMG coherence with age, there was a clear demarcation between healthy aging and previously published findings related to tremor pathology.
Increase of Neuronal Response Variability at Higher Processing Levels as Revealed by Simultaneous Recordings
Authors: Vogel A. , Hennig R. M. , Ronacher B.
Published: February 2005

A key problem for neuronal information processing is the variability of spike trains, something that is likely to constrain the encoding of sensory signals. We measured interspike-interval variability (coefficient of variation) as well as spike-count variability (Fano factor) in the metathoracic auditory system of locusts. We performed simultaneous intracellular recordings at the first three processing levels to establish identical physiological conditions. This allows us to assess whether variability is generated anew or is reduced during synaptic transmission and processing. Both the interspike-interval variability as well as the spike-count variability revealed similar trends and showed an increase from the periphery to higher processing levels. This result was confirmed by single-cell recordings. A comparison of ascending interneurons coding for sound direction and those encoding sound patterns showed that the latter respond more reliably to repeated stimulus presentations. In general, the variability of spiking responses was much lower than expected from a Poisson process. Furthermore, we observed a strong dependence of variability on the spike rate, which differed at the three levels investigated. The differences in spike rates account for most of the differences in variability observed between processing levels. For auditory receptors, we found a good agreement between the Fano factor and the squared coefficient of variation, suggesting similarities to a renewal process of spike generation at the periphery. At the level of interneurons, the Fano factor was lower than the squared coefficient of variation; this indicates a higher reliability than expected from the interspike-interval distribution.
Aristotle FR. 44 Rose: Midas and Silenus
Authors: Davies Malcolm
Published: February 2005

Scholars have identified two supposedly separate folk-tale patterns: (a) the questing hero's initial encounter with an ambivalent helper figure; (b) the capture of a demonic figure from whom crucial information is extracted. This article establishes that (a) and (b) are identical aspects of one and the same pattern and that the story of Midas' encounter with Silenus exemplifies this pattern. Two Appendixes show how Silenus resembles that primeval and widely disseminated figure the Wild Man; and that the folk-tale sequence whereby one helper sends on the hero to another helper (or helpers) lurks beneath the surface of several stories that exemplify the relevant pattern.
The Ethics of War and the Concept of War in India and Europe
Authors: Brekke Torkel
Published: February 2005

The European just war tradition makes a distinction between matters of just resort to war (jus ad bellum) and matters of just means in war (jus in bello). If one compares the just war tradition with ethical systems of other cultures, one is struck by the European concern about jus ad bellum and the lack of interest in the same in other traditions. I compare the ethics of war in two important literary traditions of classical Hinduism with the European just war tradition. Our problem: Why were Europeans so interested in matters of jus ad bellum (in particular the principle of right authority) and why did Hindu writers take so little interest in the same questions? I suggest the following answer. In medieval and early modern Europe there was great interest in jus ad bellum because Europeans had a concept of war that made two important distinctions. The European concept of war distinguished, firstly, war against external enemies from violence against internal enemies and, secondly, public from private violence. Some important studies of the ethics of war have asserted that these two distinctions are universal. I argue, on the contrary, that these two distinctions are unique to Europe. Hindu writers had a fundamentally different concept of war. They did not make the same distinctions. I argue that this conceptual difference explains why Europeans were so concerned about jus ad bellum while Indians were not.
Reading `Opium of the People': Expression, Protest and the Dialectics of Religion
Authors: Mckinnon Andrew M.
Published: February 2005

Marx's phrase `opium of the people' is one of the most frequently quoted lines he ever wrote; perhaps because of that, it has been just as frequently misunderstood. By returning to the various meanings of opium in the mid-19th century, I revisit Marx's analysis, offering a way of reading the metaphor that is more consistent with Marx's dialectical method. The paper provides a revised analysis of Marx's “Towards a Critique of Hegel's Philosophy of Right: Introduction”, as well as suggestions about how this new more open-ended reading can contribute to Marxian analyses of religious beliefs and practices in late capitalism.
Leveling the Organizational Playing Field—Virtually
Authors: Rains Stephen A.
Published: February 2005

One of the most heralded features of group support systems (GSSs) is their ability to democratize group processes. Through minimizing barriers to communication, GSSs are proposed to create greater opportunities for member influence than those created in groups meeting face-to-face. To test this notion, a meta-analysis was conducted examining the aggregate impact of GSS use on six influence variables across 48 experiments. Results indicate that groups using a GSS experience greater participation and influence equality, generate a larger amount of unique ideas, and experience less member dominance than do groups meeting face-to-face. The impact of GSS use on decision shifts is moderated by the national culture of participants. The implications of these findings for research on GSS use are examined, and directions for future research are offered.
The Remains of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Graft Tension after Cyclic Knee Motion
Authors: Arnold Markus P. , Lie Denny T. T. , Verdonschot Nico , de Graaf Ruurd , Amis Andrew A. , van Kampen Albert
Published: February 2005

Background

There is sometimes a return of excess knee laxity after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. One of the contributing factors might be a loss in graft tension. It is unknown whether the tension imposed on an anterior cruciate ligament graft degrades with time and, if so, the effect of that loss of tension on knee laxity.

Hypotheses

The pretension in the anterior cruciate ligament graft reduces significantly within the first 500 motion cycles, and this decrease in graft tension causes an increase in knee laxity.

Study Design

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods

This study measured the remains of bone-patellar tendon-bone graft pretension after cyclical flexion-extension and the effect of any tension loss on knee laxity, using 8 cadaveric knees. A tension transducer was inserted into the graft and calibrated in situ. The reconstruction tension was 40 N at 20° of flexion. In test 1, the graft tension was measured under cyclical flexion-extension in a motorized rig up to 1500 cycles. Test 2, with a new graft, also included anteroposterior and internal-external rotational knee laxity measurements at 0, 500, and 1500 cycles.

Results

The graft tension at 0° of flexion dropped from 208 N, by 25% after 50 cycles, 41% by 500, and 46% by 1500 cycles. Anterior laxity increased from +1.4 to +2.8 mm by 500 cycles, and performing these laxity tests also caused significant tension losses.

Clinical Relevance

These results provide one possible explanation for early slackening of anterior cruciate ligament reconstructions.
Comparison of Dynamic Sonography to Stress Radiography for Assessing Glenohumeral Laxity in Asymptomatic Shoulders
Authors: Borsa Paul A. , Jacobson Jon A. , Scibek Jason S. , Dover Geoffrey C.
Published: February 2005

Background

Stress radiography has been the established imaging method for quantifying glenohumeral joint laxity. Dynamic ultrasound is an alternative imaging method that may be used to measure glenohumeral laxity; however, validity and repeatability have not been examined.

Objective

To determine criterion-related validity and repeatability of a sonographic imaging method for measuring glenohumeral laxity in asymptomatic shoulders.

Study Design

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods

In experiment 1, 20 subjects were assessed for glenohumeral laxity using stress radiography and dynamic ultrasound. In the second experiment, 13 subjects were assessed for laxity in 2 separate test sessions using the dynamic ultrasound technique.

Results

Correlational analysis between the sonographic and radiographic measures revealed an r = 0.79 (r2 = 0.62), indicating excellent criterion-related validity for the sonographic imaging method. Test-retest repeatability was 0.72 and 0.85 for anterior and posterior translation, respectively, and interrater repeatability was 0.96 and 0.99 for anterior and posterior translation, respectively.

Conclusions

Dynamic ultrasound appears to be a valid and repeatable method for assessing glenohumeral laxity in a clinical setting.

Clinical Relevance

Based on the results of this study, dynamic ultrasound is a repeatable and valid method for measuring glenohumeral laxity and therefore may be used as a viable replacement for stress radiography during assessments of glenohumeral laxity.
Posterior Cruciate Ligament Revision Reconstruction, Part 2
Authors: Noyes Frank R. , Barber-Westin Sue D.
Published: February 2005

Background

Posterior cruciate ligament reconstructions fail for similar reasons as to why anterior cruciate ligament reconstructions fail. Revision surgery is an option after failure.

Purpose

To prospectively study the results of 15 posterior cruciate ligament revision surgeries using a 2-strand quadriceps tendonpatellar bone autograft.

Study Design

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

The authors observed 15 knees that received the revision procedure a mean of 44 months (range, 23-84 months) postoperatively. The results were determined by a comprehensive knee examination including stress radiography and several grading scales. A tibial inlay technique was used in 9 knees, and an arthroscopic tibial tunnel technique was done in 6 knees. Six knees required 1 or more concomitant ligament reconstructions.

Results

Significant improvements occurred in pain, function, and patient perception scores (P <. 05). However, only 53% returned to light sports without problems. Stress radiograph posterior tibial translation values improved from 11.7 ± 3.0 mm preoperatively to 5.1 ± 2.4 mm at follow-up (P <. 001). Two of the 15 revisions failed. Associated knee ligament reconstructive procedures restored anterior, medial, and posterolateral stability. There were no complications from the quadriceps tendon graft harvest site. Abnormal articular cartilage surfaces were found during the revision in 8 (53%) knees.

Conclusions

The quadriceps tendon 2-strand revision provided reasonable results in this group of complex-injured knees. The tibial inlay approach is advantageous to bypass prior tibial tunnels, and the all-inside arthroscopic technique is advantageous when major concurrent ligament reconstructions are required.
The Effects of Thermal Capsular Shrinkage on the Outcomes of Arthroscopic Stabilization for Primary Anterior Shoulder Instability
Authors: Chen Shiyi , Haen Pieter Stijn , Walton Judie , Murrell George A. C.
Published: February 2005

Background

The effectiveness of arthroscopic thermal capsulorrhaphy in the prevention of recurrent instability in primary anterior stabilization is undetermined.

Purpose

To determine if patients with recurrent anterior shoulder instability who have labral repair plus arthroscopic thermal capsulorrhaphy have better outcomes than those with labral repair alone.

Study Design

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Method

There were 72 patients who underwent arthroscopic anterior shoulder stabilization with Suretac II tacks (n = 32) during 1996 to 1999 or with Suretac II tacks plus arthroscopic radiofrequency capsular shrinkage (n = 40) from 1999 to 2002. Standardized patient-determined and examiner-determined outcome measures were obtained preoperatively and at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months postoperatively. Statistical analyses included a Kaplan-Meier analysis of time to recurrent instability.

Results

Of the 72 patients, 66 had complete follow-up, including 28 patients treated with the Suretac stabilization and 38 patients with the Suretac plus radiofrequency shrinkage, for a mean follow-up of 58 and 30 months, respectively. All patients had a Bankart lesion. Both groups had similar results with respect to patient-determined and examiner-determined outcome measures. The only adverse outcome was postoperative recurrent instability in 6 of 28 cases in the Suretac group alone and 8 of 38 cases in the Suretac-plus-shrinkage group. Most recurrent instability occurred between 6 and 24 months. Kaplan-Meier analysis for time to recurrent instability showed no differences in the rate of instability recurrence between the 2 groups.

Conclusion

Arthroscopic thermal capsulorrhaphy neither enhanced nor impaired the outcomes of arthroscopic labral repair with biodegradable tacks in patients with primary recurrent anterior shoulder instability.