bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Spatiotemporal Autoregressive Price Index for the Paris Office Property Market
Authors: Nappi‐Choulet Pr. Ingrid , Maury Tristan‐Pierre
Published: April 2009

This article applies the spatiotemporal hedonic approach to the analysis of office transaction prices in the Paris property market (i.e., central Paris and its inner suburbs). The analysis focuses primarily on the market's two main business districts (the Central Business District and the La Défense District). We find that spatial and temporal dependence effects are strongly present in these submarkets. Additionally, we propose a hybrid method for incorporating a temporal regime switch into the spatiotemporal autoregressive model. The regime switching around 1997 (i.e., in the presence of temporal heterogeneity) substantially affects the significance of spatial and temporal dependences. Finally, we build a new price index that incorporates both spatiotemporal dependences and temporal heterogeneity. This index differs strongly from the usual hedonic price index.
Coalitions, Science, and Belief Change: Comparing Adversarial and Collaborative Policy Subsystems
Authors: Weible Christopher M. , Sabatier Paul A.
Published: April 2009

Arguments for collaborative rather than adversarial approaches to governance rest partly on two axioms: first, that collaborative approaches mitigate conflict to intermediate levels and second, that collaborative approaches help integrate science and values through various joint fact‐finding strategies. Using questionnaire data in 1984 and 2001 of policy participants involved in Lake Tahoe water quality policy, this article investigates whether a shift from an adversarial to a collaborative policy subsystem is associated with (i) convergence in beliefs regarding water quality problems and policy proposals; and (ii) an increase in the use of science‐based empirical beliefs and a decrease in the use of normative beliefs in supporting policy proposals. The findings send a mixed message to policymakers and researchers about science and collaboration. The analysis suggests that collaborative policy subsystems are associated with convergence in some beliefs between rival coalitions, but it also suggests that policy participants are no more likely to rely on science‐based, empirical beliefs in collaborative than in adversarial policy subsystems.
Tinkering Toward a National Identification System: An Experiment on Policy Attitudes
Authors: Bali Valentina
Published: April 2009

The REAL ID Act was passed in 2005 by Congress in part to address preoccupations with breaches to homeland security after the 9/11 attacks. The Act requires states to introduce more standardized state driver's licenses by 2008. The goal of this paper is to understand citizens' opinions in the area of personal identification and how these opinions may be shaped by alternative framings of the issue. Using survey responses from Michigan residents provides evidence of the following: (i) a majority of the Michigan public supports the current reforms in identification; however, a majority is not willing to incur larger costs or delays; (ii) framing the issue around immigration can generate as much support as framing the issue around terrorism; however, a more balanced discourse can dampen support; and (iii) partisan and ideological leanings moderately structure support for identification reforms. Overall the findings suggest a comfortable margin for reforms around personal identification if public safeguarding interpretations can predominate.
Slanted Newspaper Coverage of Immigration: The Importance of Economics and Geography
Authors: Branton Regina P. , Dunaway Johanna
Published: April 2009

When compared to studies of media effects, relatively few studies of the media focus on factors that influence the behavior of media organizations. Specifically, there are few empirical studies of the attributes and incentives of news organizations that might lead to slanted coverage of particular policy issues. In this study, we identify factors that lead to negatively slanted coverage of a specific policy issue: immigration. Using content analysis, geographic information systems (GIS) data, and contextual data, we find that newspaper ownership and proximity to the U.S.–Mexico border are related to slant in news articles and opinion pieces regarding immigration.
Housing Policy for Persons With Severe Mental Illness
Authors: Newman Sandra , Goldman Howard
Published: April 2009

Homelessness among persons with severe mental illness is a visible manifestation of deeply flawed public policies. This article critically assesses research to date on housing and related policies for the homeless mentally ill and recommends that future research target three strategic areas: (i) housing subsidies; (ii) landlord reluctance to rent to persons with mental illness, thereby solving one of their major problems in accessing housing; and (iii) appropriate housing and service mix for this heterogeneous population; that is, answering the longstanding threshold policy question of what housing and service mixes work best and for whom.
Combined cell wall polysaccharide, mycotoxin and bacterial lipopolysaccharide exposure and inflammatory cytokine responses
Authors: JOHANNESSEN LENE , LØVIK MARTINUS , LYDERSEN STIAN , NILSEN ASBJØRN MAGNE
Published: April 2009

Human exposure to environmental microbes occurs regularly. Microbial compounds may interact with each other to affect cellular responses. We hypothesized that interactions between microbial compounds could modulate inflammatory cytokine responses in vitro. We investigated monocyte production of the pro‐inflammatory cytokine tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) and the regulatory cytokine interleukin‐10 (IL‐10) after combined exposure to the fungal cell wall polysaccharide mannan and to the β‐glucan laminarin, the mycotoxin citrinin and bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Interactions between the cell wall microbial compounds were estimated statistically in a general linear mixed model. We found that LPS (100 ng/ml) and the used β‐glucan (up to 1000 μg/ml) significantly interacted with each other to reduce TNF‐α production. Mannan (up to 100 μg/ml) did not interact with the β‐glucan, but interacted with LPS. IL‐10 production was induced by LPS only. The mycotoxin citrinin did not induce cytokine production, but was toxic to the cells in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner. However, non‐toxic doses of citrinin reduced LPS‐induced IL‐10 production while LPS‐induced TNF‐α production was not similarly reduced by citrinin. In conclusion, interactions between microbial compounds can modulate cellular inflammatory cytokine production and experimental investigations of one compound at a time could give misleading conclusions about these combined effects.
Head and neck cancer in India – review of practices for prevention policy
Authors: Mishra A
Published: April 2009

India, with a population of over a billion is likely to increase global concern on cancer, particularly that of head and neck. The increasing immigration of Indians is likely to influence other parts of the world and an analysis of cancer‐related practices could serve as a model for defining cancer‐prevention strategies across the globe. The objective of this study was to review the anti‐ and pro‐carcinogenic practices in India pertaining to head and neck cancer. The published literature on practices, compounds/chemicals/crude reparations related to the head and neck cancer in India was retrieved for analysis, while unauthentic or local information was discarded. The anti‐carcinogenic practices prevalent in India consisted of classically varied diet being predominantly vegetarian, along with spices, condiments, beverages etc. The pro‐carcinogenic practices predominantly include all shades of alcoholism and tobacco intake. Moreover, the diverse culture of the country reflects unique regional practices. The enormous diversity in practices related to head and neck cancer in India is very unique and interesting. Cancer prevention strategies need to focus on these trends to define a better global prevention.
Infantile colic, prolonged crying and maternal postnatal depression
Authors: Vik Torstein , Grote Veit , Escribano Joauqín , Socha Jerzy , Verduci Elvira , Fritsch Michaela , Carlier Clotilde , Kries Rüdiger von , Koletzko Berthold ,   for the European Childhood Obesity Trial Study Group
Published: April 2009

Aim:  To study if infant crying is associated with maternal postnatal depression.

Methods:  Data from 1015 mothers and their children participating in a prospective European multicentre study were analysed. Infantile colic and prolonged crying were defined as excessive crying as reported by the mothers 2 and 6 months after delivery, and at the same time the mothers completed the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS).

Results:  In cross‐sectional analyses, infant crying was associated with high EPDS scores both 2 (OR: 4.4; 95% CI: 2.4–8.2) and 6 months postpartum (OR: 10.8; 95% CI: 4.3–26.9). More than one‐third of the others of infants with prolonged crying had high EPDS scores 6 months postpartum. Longitudinal analyses showed that mothers of infants with colic had increased odds of having high EPDS scores 6 months after delivery even if crying had resolved (OR: 3.7; 95% CI: 1.4–10.1).

Conclusion: Both infantile colic and prolonged crying were associated with high maternal depression scores. Most noteworthy, infantile colic at 2 months of age was associated with high maternal depression scores  4 months later.
Relationship between endotracheal tube leakage and under‐reading of tidal volume in neonatal ventilators
Authors: Mahmoud RA , Fischer HS , Proquitté H , Shalaby HM Abudaif , Schmalisch G
Published: April 2009

Aim:  Protective ventilation in neonates requires careful volume monitoring to prevent ventilator‐induced lung injury caused by baro/volutrauma and hence chronic lung disease. This study investigated the effect of endotracheal tube (ET) leakage on the displayed tidal volume using an in vitro model.

Methods:  A neonatal lung model was ventilated via a 3 mm ET using three ventilators [Babylog 8000 (BL), Leoni (LE) and Stephanie (ST)]. Tidal volume was measured by each ventilator at the Y‐piece and by a pneumotach (CO2SMO+) in the model. ET leaks were simulated by open tubes of different lengths. PIP (20 cmH2O) and PEEP (5 cmH2O) were kept constant, and the respiratory rate (RR) was varied between 20/min and 70/min (Ti:Te = 1:1).

Results:  Tidal volume displayed by a ventilator decreased independently of RR with increasing leakage up to 21% (BL), 30% (LE) and 33% (ST). However, the volume delivered to the lung was nearly constant. The displayed leakage varied between 0 and 78% and was dependent on RR and leakage resistance. There were distinct differences between the three ventilators in the relationship between displayed leakage and volume error. Accepting a volume error <10% for RR between 20 and 70/min, ET leakage of up to 20% for BL, 12% for LE, but only <5% for ST, was acceptable.

Conclusion:  Tidal volume underestimation arising from ET leakage depends on ventilator pressures, timing parameters and ventilator‐specific algorithms for signal processing. Therefore, neonatologists should be aware of these issues to prevent lung over‐inflation when adjusting target volume in the presence of ET leakage.
The Buccofacial Wall of Maxillary Sinus: An Anatomical Consideration for Sinus Augmentation
Authors: Yang Hun‐Mu , Kyong Bae Hanna Eun , Won Sung‐Yoon , Hu Kyung‐Seok , Song Woo‐Chul , Paik Doo‐Jin , Kim Hee‐Jin
Published: April 2009

Purpose: This study aimed to quantify the thickness of the buccofacial wall of the maxillary sinus where sinus augmentations are often performed.

Materials and Methods: Fourteen sites located 15 and 20 mm superior to the anatomical cervical line (named as groups H15 and H20, respectively) and along the long axes of the mid and the interproximal of two premolars and two molars were measured from 74 Korean hemiface cadavers.

Results: The buccofacial wall of the maxillary sinus was thinnest at the area between the maxillary second premolar and first molar in groups H15 and H20. The lowest mean thickness was 1.2 mm in both groups. The walls were thicker in males than in females, with statistically significant gender differences found at four and two sites on the anterior horizontal reference in groups H15 and H20, respectively. However, the thickness did not differ significantly with age or laterality. Incomplete septa were found in seven of the 74 specimens, and they were present in the area between the first and second molars in six (86%) of these cases.

Conclusions: These observations indicate that anatomical characteristics of the buccofacial wall thickness of the maxillary sinus need to be considered when performing a window opening procedure for sinus augmentation.
Early Loading of Nonsubmerged Titanium Implants with a Chemically Modified Sand‐Blasted and Acid‐Etched Surface: 6‐Month Results of a Prospective Case Series Study in the Posterior Mandible Focusing on Peri‐Implant Crestal Bone Changes and Implant Stability Quotient (ISQ) Values
Authors: Bornstein Michael M. , Hart Christopher N. , Halbritter Sandro A. , Morton Dean , Buser Daniel
Published: April 2009

Purpose:The aim of this prospective case series study was to evaluate the short‐term success rates of titanium screw‐type implants with a chemically modified sand‐blasted and acid‐etched (mod SLA) surface after 3 weeks of healing.

Material and Methods:A total of 56 implants were inserted in the posterior mandible of 40 partially edentulous patients exhibiting bone densities of class I to III. After a healing period of 3 weeks, all implants were functionally loaded with a screw‐retained crown or fixed dental prosthesis. The patients were recalled at weeks 4, 7, 12, and 26 for monitoring and assessment of clinical and radiological parameters, including implant stability quotient (ISQ) measurements.

Results:None of the implants failed to integrate. However, two implants were considered “spinners” at day 21 and left unloaded for an extended period. Therefore, 96.4% of the inserted implants were loaded according to the protocol tested. All 56 implants including the “spinners” showed favorable clinical and radiographic findings at the 6‐month follow‐up examination. The ISQ values increased steadily throughout the follow‐up period. At the time of implant placement, the range of ISQ values exhibited a mean of 74.33, and by week 26, a mean value of 83.82 was recorded. Based on strict criteria, all 56 implants were considered successfully integrated, resulting in a 6‐month survival and success rate of 100.0%.

Conclusion:This prospective study using an early‐loading protocol after 3 weeks of healing demonstrated that titanium implants with the modified SLA surface can achieve and maintain successful tissue integration over a period of at least 6 months. The ISQ method seems feasible to monitor implant stability during the initial wound‐healing period.
Implant Placement in Patients with Oral Bisphosphonate Therapy: A Case Series
Authors: Shabestari Ghasem Omati , Shayesteh Yadollah Soleimani , Khojasteh Arash , Alikhasi Marzieh , Moslemi Neda , Aminian Amin , Masaeli Reza , Eslami Behnam , Treister Nathaniel S.
Published: April 2009

Background: Although the effect of bisphosphonates on dental implant osseointegration is not clear, dental implant failures attributable to oral bisphosphonate therapy have been reported in patients with osteoporosis.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate implant survival in patients with a history of bisphosphonate therapy in a retrospective survey.

Materials and Methods: A total of 46 ITI implants placed in 21 osteoporotic patients (females; average age 53 years, range 42–79 years) were evaluated with regard to probing depth, mobility, thread exposure, and bleeding on probing. All patients were under oral bisphosphonate therapy.

Results: None of implants showed mobility and all patients could be considered free from peri‐implantitis. Time of bisphosphonate therapy before and after implant insertion showed no statistically significant influence on PD, BOP, and TE. Likewise, implant location, prosthetic type, and opposing dentition had no statistically significant influence on the clinical and radiological parameters of implants.

Conclusion: Within the limitations of this study, it could be concluded that neither being on oral bisphosphonate treatment before implant placement nor starting bisphosphonate therapy after implant installation might jeopardize the successful osseointegration and clinical and radiographic condition of the implants.
Bone Structure Changes in Iliac Crest Grafts Combined with Implants
Authors: Verhoeven Jan Willem , Ruijter Jan M. , Koole Ronald , De Putter Cornelis , Cune Marco S.
Published: April 2009

Background: Remodeling of onlay grafts combined with implants to the mandible results in predictable changes in the graft's radiographic density. We studied the relationship between changes in radiographic density and trabecular structure during the first year after onlay grafting with simultaneous implant placement to the mandible.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in bone structure after onlay grafting.

Materials and Methods: Standardized extraoral radiographs were taken regularly of 16 mandibular sides. Bone structure was measured using the Carl Zeiss Vision KS 400 3.0 imaging system. The parameters studied were trabecular area and perimeter, cavity area and perimeter, end points, branching points, skeleton length, branch angle and direction, and texture.

Results: No differences were found between measurements ventrally versus dorsally of the implant, nor close to versus away from the implant. Early cortical changes suggest partial resorption and formation of a more complex structure. In the fourth quarter after surgery, progressive resorption is seen in the graft's upper cortex. In the graft's upper spongiosa, most parameters indicate bone formation during the first postoperative year. Loading‐induced structure changes could not yet be found.

Conclusion: The technique can be used to study changes in the architecture of bone grafts. Changes found in the graft's architecture are in accordance with changes in bone density.
Crystal structure of textilinin‐1, a Kunitz‐type serine protease inhibitor from the venom of the Australian common brown snake (Pseudonaja textilis)
Authors: Millers Emma‐Karin I. , Trabi Manuela , Masci Paul P. , Lavin Martin F. , de Jersey John , Guddat Luke W.
Published: April 2009

Textilinin‐1 is a Kunitz‐type serine protease inhibitor isolated from the venom of the Australian common brown snake, Pseudonaja textilis. This molecule binds to and blocks the activity of a range of serine proteases, including plasmin and trypsin. Textilinin‐1’s ability to inhibit plasmin, a protease involved in fibrinolysis, has raised the possibility that it could be used as an alternative to aprotinin (Trasylol) as a systemic antibleeding agent in surgery. Here, the crystal structure of free recombinant textilinin‐1 has been determined to 1.63 Å, with three molecules observed in the asymmetric unit. All of these have a similar overall fold to aprotinin, except that the canonical loop for one of the molecules is inverted such that the side chain of the P1′ residue, Val18, is partially buried by intramolecular contacts to Pro15, Thr13, and Ile36. In aprotinin, the P1′ residue is Ala16, whose side chain is too small to form similar contacts. The loop inversion in textilinin‐1 is facilitated by changes in backbone dihedral angles for the P1 and P2′ residues, such that they alternate between values in the β‐sheet and α‐helical regions of the Ramachandran plot. In a comparison with the structures of all other known Kunitz‐type serine protease inhibitors, no such conformational variability has been observed. The presence of the bulkier valine as the P1′ residue in textilinin‐1 appears to be a major contributor to reducing the binding affinity for plasmin as compared to aprotinin (3.5 nm versus 0.053 nm) and could also account for an observed narrower binding specificity.
Sustained activation of ERK1/2 by NGF induces microRNA‐221 and 222 in PC12 cells
Authors: Terasawa Kazuya , Ichimura Atsuhiko , Sato Fumiaki , Shimizu Kazuharu , Tsujimoto Gozoh
Published: April 2009

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non‐coding RNAs that regulate gene expression by inhibiting translation and/or inducing degradation of target mRNAs, and they play important roles in a wide variety of biological functions including cell differentiation, tumorigenesis, apoptosis and metabolism. However, there is a paucity of information concerning the regulatory mechanism of miRNA expression. Here we report identification of growth factor‐regulated miRNAs using the PC12 cell line, an established model of neuronal growth and differentiation. We found that expression of miR‐221 and miR‐222 expression were induced by nerve growth factor (NGF) stimulation in PC12 cells, and that this induction was dependent on sustained activation of the extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) pathway. Using a target prediction program, we also identified a pro‐apototic factor, the BH3‐only protein Bim, as a potential target of miR‐221/222. Overexpression of miR‐221 or miR‐222 suppressed the activity of a luciferase reporter activity fused to the 3′ UTR of Bim mRNA. Furthermore, overexpression of miR‐221/222 decreased endogenous Bim mRNA expression. These results reveal that the ERK signal regulates miR‐221/222 expression, and that these miRNAs might contribute to NGF‐dependent cell survival in PC12 cells.
Thrombin‐mediated impairment of fibroblast growth factor‐2 activity
Authors: Totta Pierangela , De Cristofaro Raimondo , Giampietri Claudia , Aguzzi Maria S. , Faraone Debora , Capogrossi Maurizio C. , Facchiano Antonio
Published: April 2009

Thrombin generation increases in several pathological conditions, including cancer, thromboembolism, diabetes and myeloproliferative syndromes. During tumor development, thrombin levels increase along with several other molecules, including cytokines and angiogenic factors. Under such conditions, it is reasonable to predict that thrombin may recognize new low‐affinity substrates that usually are not recognized under low‐expression levels conditions. In the present study, we hypothesized that fibroblast growth factor (FGF)‐2 may be cleaved by thrombin and that such action may lead to an impairment of its biological activity. The evidence collected in the present study indicates that FGF‐2‐induced proliferation and chemotaxis/invasion of SK‐MEL‐110 human melanoma cells were significantly reduced when FGF‐2 was pre‐incubated with active thrombin. The inhibition of proliferation was not influenced by heparin. Phe‐Pro‐Arg‐chloromethyl ketone, a specific inhibitor of the enzymatic activity of thrombin, abolished the thrombin‐induced observed effects. Accordingly, both FGF‐2‐binding to cell membranes as well as FGF‐2‐induced extracellular signal‐regulated kinase phosphorylation were decreased in the presence of thrombin. Finally, HPLC analyses demonstrated that FGF‐2 is cleaved by thrombin at the peptide bond between residues Arg42 and Ile43 of the mature human FGF‐2 sequence. The apparent kcat/Km of FGF‐2 hydrolysis was 1.1 × 104 m−1·s−1, which is comparable to other known low‐affinity thrombin substrates. Taken together, these results demonstrate that thrombin digests FGF‐2 at the site Arg42‐Ile43 and impairs FGF‐2 activity in vitro, indicating that FGF‐2 is a novel thrombin substrate.
Sexual Dysfunction and Symptom Impact in Men with Long-Standing Type 1 Diabetes in the DCCT/EDIC Cohort
Authors: Penson David F. , Wessells Hunter , Cleary Patricia , Rutledge Brandy N.
Published: April 2009

Introduction

Male sexual dysfunction is a common complication of diabetes (DM), but the relative impact of erectile dysfunction (ED), orgasmic dysfunction (OD), and/or decreased libido (DL) on global sexual bother has not been assessed.

Aim

To assess the relationship between ED, OD, and DL and overall sexual satisfaction in men with type 1 DM, and determine which form of dysfunction causes the most bother.

Methods

The study cohort consisted of 713 men with type 1 DM who completed the Diabetes Control and Complication Trial and then participated in the follow-up Epidemiology of Diabetes Interventions and Complications Study. In year 10 of EDIC, 583 (83%) completed a validated instrument assessing ED, OD, and DL and the bother these conditions cause. Statistical tests determined the concordance of function and bother in each domain, and the impact of each domain on overall sexual satisfaction.

Main Outcome Measures

Patient-reported outcomes using responses to individual items of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF).

Results

ED was present in 34%, OD in 20%, and DL in 55%. When correlated with overall sexual satisfaction, ED had the highest weighted kappa (0.84, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.80–0.87), while OD (0.57, 95% CI = 0.51–0.63) and DL (0.55, 95%CI = 0.48–0.62) were considerably lower. Furthermore, the single item assessing confidence in getting and keeping an erection had the strongest correlation with overall sexual bother as well as specific erectile bother.

Conclusions

ED, OD, and DL are highly prevalent in men with long-standing type I diabetes. All three sexual dysfunctions cause bother in men with DM, but ED causes more general sexual bother and likely has a greater overall impact on quality of life. Our data underscore the importance of asking men with DM about their sexual function and point to the need for further research to investigate disorders of orgasm and desire.
Seventeen Years’ Experience of Penile Fracture: Conservative vs. Surgical Treatment
Authors: Yapanoglu Turgut , Aksoy Yilmaz , Adanur Senol , Kabadayi Barış , Ozturk Gurkan , Ozbey Isa
Published: April 2009

Introduction

Penile fracture is the rupture of the tunica of one or both corpora cavernosa due to direct blunt trauma to the erected penis. Partial or complete rupture of the urethra or injury to the deep dorsal vein may accompany penile fracture.

Aim

To compare conservative and surgical treatment modalities in terms of duration of hospitalization, early and late complications such as penile nodule and curvature, erectile dysfunction, and painful erection.

Main Outcome Measures

Treatment results and complications in two groups were evaluated with history and physical examination, and International Index of Erectile Function-5 Questionnaire was used for erectile function assessement.

Methods

The charts of 42 men diagnosed with penile fracture were retrospectively reviewed, and two treatment modalities were compared: conservative (Group I) and surgical (Group II).

Results

Between 1991 and 2008, a total of 42 patients with penile fracture were followed in our clinic for a mean of 18 months (range: 6–30 months). Five men who refused surgical treatment were treated conservatively, and the other 37 patients underwent surgical treatment. In Group II, the most common complication was painful erection (in 4 of 37 patients, 10.8 %), whereas in Group I, 80 % (4/5 patients) suffered complications such as wound infection, painful erection, penile nodule and curvature, and erectile dysfunction.

Conclusion

Diagnosis of penile fracture can be based on history and physical examination; diagnostic tests such as ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging are generally not required. Fractures must be repaired either immediately or delayed. Because management with emergency surgical repair is the most effective approach, with the lowest complication rate, surgical treatment should be preferred compared to a conservative approach.
Emotional Intelligence and its Association with Orgasmic Frequency in Women
Authors: Burri Andrea V. , Cherkas Lynn M. , Spector Tim D.
Published: April 2009

Introduction

Up to 30% of women suffer from female orgasmic disorder (FOD)—the second most common type of female sexual dysfunction. FOD has been acknowledged to be multifactorial and recent research has implicated the importance of psychosocial risk factors.

Aim

The aim of this study is to investigate whether normal variations in emotional intelligence—the ability to identify and manage emotions of one’s self and others—are associated with orgasmic frequency during intercourse and masturbation. To our knowledge, this is the first such study in a large unselected population.

Methods

A total of 2035 women from the TwinsUK registry completed questionnaires relating to emotional intelligence and sexual behavior. Global emotional intelligence was measured using the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire—Short Form (TEIQue-SF). Orgasmic frequency was assessed using two self-constructed questions.

Main Outcome Measures

Using Spearman’s rank correlation and quartile logistic regression, we investigated whether variations in emotional intelligence are associated with female orgasmic frequency during intercourse and masturbation.

Results

Emotional intelligence was not associated with the potential confounders of age and years of education, nor did we find a significant association between emotional intelligence and potential risk factors for FOD such as age, body mass index, physical or sexual abuse, or menopause. We found emotional intelligence to be positively correlated with both frequency of orgasm during intercourse (r = 0.13, P < 0.001) and masturbation (r = 0.23, P < 0.001). Women in the lowest quartile of emotional intelligence had an approximate twofold increased risk of infrequent orgasm (Intercourse = odds ratio [OR] 2.3, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.4–3.9; Masturbation = [OR] 1.8, [CI] 1.3–2.5).

Conclusion

Low emotional intelligence seems to be a significant risk factor for low orgasmic frequency. Consideration of this behavioral risk factor may need to be incorporated into research into FOD and possible treatment approaches.
Safety, Efficacy, and Pharmacokinetic Overview of Low-Dose Daily Administration of Tadalafil
Authors: Wrishko Rebecca , Sorsaburu Sebastian , Wong David , Strawbridge Andrew , McGill James
Published: April 2009

Introduction

Several phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors are commercially available for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). Development of the first once-daily alternative dosing regimen with a PDE5 inhibitor was motivated by the behavioral complexities associated with sexual intimacy.

Aim

To provide an alternative dosing option for certain men who may benefit from the removal of the temporal linkage between administration of an ED therapy and sexual intimacy or for men and their partners who anticipate at least twice-weekly sexual activity.

Methods

Pharmacokinetic predictions of tadalafil plasma concentrations were generated based upon empirical data following 20-mg, single-dose administration coupled with tadalafil usage patterns from as-needed clinical trials. To support the pharmacokinetic simulations and pharmacodynamic assumptions, clinical trials were conducted to demonstrate the efficacy and safety of once-daily, low-dose tadalafil 2.5 and 5 mg.

Main Outcome Measures

Simulated tadalafil plasma concentrations and comparison with safety and efficacy measures from clinical trials.

Results

Based upon pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic data, once-daily doses of tadalafil 5 mg were predicted to provide therapeutic concentrations that would be maintained throughout the 24-hour dosing interval. Additionally, for a subgroup of men who anticipate at least twice-weekly sexual activity and are currently taking tadalafil 20 mg, a reduction in daily tadalafil exposure was predicted. To support the hypothesis that low-dose, once-daily tadalafil may be a safe and effective treatment alternative, clinical trials were conducted to demonstrate the safety and efficacy of once-daily tadalafil 2.5 and 5 mg. These results were similar to those of historical as-needed studies evaluating tadalafil 10 and 20 mg.

Conclusions

Consistent with pharmacokinetic predictions, data from clinical trials indicate that once-daily use of low-dose tadalafil is a safe and effective treatment for men with ED.
Abdominal Obesity and Physical Inactivity Are Associated with Erectile Dysfunction Independent of Body Mass Index
Authors: Janiszewski Peter M. , Janssen Ian , Ross Robert
Published: April 2009

Introduction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is common among men with an elevated body mass index (BMI). However, a high waist circumference (WC) and low levels of physical activity may predict ED independently of BMI.

Aim

We investigated the independent relationships between BMI, WC, and physical activity with ED.

Methods

Subjects consisted of 3,941 adult men (age ≥ 20 years) with no history of prostate cancer from the 2001–2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Logistic regression analyses were used to examine the relative odds of ED association with categories of BMI, WC, and physical activity.

Main Outcome Measures

Established thresholds were used to divide subjects into three WC and BMI categories. Physical activity level was divided into active (≥150 min/week), moderately active (30–149 min/week), and inactive (<30 min/week) categories. A single survey question was used to assess the presence of ED.

Results

After control for potential confounders, men with either a high WC or an obese BMI had an approximately 50% higher odds of having ED compared with men with a low WC or a normal BMI, respectively. Further, moderately active or inactive men had an approximately 40–60% greater odds of ED compared with active men. When all three predictors (WC, BMI, and physical activity level) were entered into the same logistic regression model, both a high WC and low physical activity level (moderately active and inactive) were independently associated with a greater odds of ED, whereas BMI level was not.

Conclusion

Maintaining a WC level below 102 cm and achieving the recommended amount of moderate-intensity physical activity (≥150 min/week) is associated with the maintenance of proper erectile function, regardless of BMI level. These findings suggest that the clinical screening for ED risk should include the assessment of WC and physical activity level in addition to BMI.
Dermal Cytolytic Peptides and the System of Innate Immunity in Anurans
Authors: Conlon J. Michael , Iwamuro Shawichi , King Jay D.
Published: April 2009

Cationic peptides with the propensity to adopt an amphipathic α‐helical conformation in a membrane‐mimetic environment are synthesized in the skin of many species of frogs. These peptides frequently display potent cytolytic activities against a range of pathogenic bacteria and fungi, consistent with the hypothesis that they play a role in host defense. However, the importance of the peptides in the survival strategy of the animal is not clearly understood. At this time, antimicrobial peptides have been identified in the skin of frogs from species belonging to the Bombinatoridae, Hylidae, Hyperoliidae, Leiopelmatidae, Leptodactylidae, Myobatrachidae, Pipidae, and Ranidae families, but several well‐studied species from the Bufonidae, Ceratophryidae, Dicroglossidae, Microhylidae, Pelobatidae, Pyxicephalidae, Rhacophoridae, and Scaphiopodidae families do not appear to synthesize these peptides. Although cytolytic activity against the chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, responsible for anuran population declines worldwide, has been demonstrated in vitro, the ability of frog skin antimicrobial peptides to protect the animal in the wild appears to be limited. While the production of dermal cytolytic peptides may offer definite evolutionary advantage to anurans, their precise biological function, for example during metamorphosis, may need to be re‐evaluated.
Recent Advances in the Regulation of Feeding Behavior by Neuropeptides in Fish
Authors: Matsuda Kouhei
Published: April 2009

The hypothalamus and brain stem in vertebrates play an important role in feeding regulation. Many kinds of neuropeptides have been implicated in the regulation of food intake and energy homeostasis in rodents. In addition to rodents, however, the goldfish has been widely used as an animal model to investigate the effects of neuropeptides on feeding behavior. Although several neuropeptides exert similar effects on feeding behavior in goldfish and in rodents, marked differences have been reported for other neuropeptides. For instance, melanin‐concentrating hormone, which exerts orexigenic activity in rodents, acts as an anorexigenic neuropeptide via the α‐melanocyte‐stimulating hormone signaling pathway by neuronal interaction in goldfish. These observations indicate that, while the same series of neuropeptides and their receptor systems are involved in the control of feeding behavior throughout the vertebrate phylum, major differences may occur in their mode of action between fish and mammals. This paper gives a mini review of recent advances in the regulation of feeding behavior by neuropeptides in fish, with a focus on recent studies in goldfish.
Regulation of Proopiomelanocortin Gene Expression
Authors: Jenks Bruce G.
Published: April 2009

Pituitary melanotroph and corticotroph cells produce and secrete peptides from the multifunctional precursor protein proopiomelanocortin (POMC). Stimulation of the secretory activity of both cell types involves production of cyclic 3′5′‐adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and increases in the concentration of intracellular Ca2+. The increase in secretory activity is accompanied by enhanced expression of the POMC gene. Surprisingly, the POMC promoter lacks both cAMP‐responsive elements and Ca2+‐responsive elements through which the cAMP and Ca2+ signals could, in a relatively direct way, act on POMC gene expression. It is thus apparent that other, more indirect, mechanisms have evolved to utilize cAMP and Ca2+ signaling cascades to regulate POMC expression. This review gives an overview of the complex pathways and events that lead to the regulation of POMC gene expression in corticotrophs and melanotrophs. Another major site for POMC production is in hypothalamic neurons of the arcuate nucleus. In these neurons expression of the POMC gene relies on enhancer regions and responsive elements that differ from those utilized in the pituitary gland. In this review some attention will be given to progress made in unraveling the regulatory strategies acting on POMC expression in hypothalamic neurons. It is clear that the complexities of the promoter/enhancer structure of the POMC gene contribute to the versatility of this gene in participating in complex adaptation processes.
Expression and Distribution of Gonad‐stimulating Substance in Various Organs of the Starfish Asterina pectinifera
Authors: Mita Masatoshi , Ito Chika , Kubota Eri , Nagahama Yoshitaka , Shibata Yasushi
Published: April 2009

Gonad‐stimulating substance (GSS) is the first invertebrate gonadotropic neuropeptide hormone identified in a marine invertebrate, the starfish. Here, we show expression and distribution of GSS in various organs of the starfish Asterina pectinifera. Levels of GSS were high in the radial nerves and nerve ring. GSS was also observed in the cardiac stomachs and tube‐feet, although in low amounts, but it was undetectable in the gonads and in the pyloric ceca. Reverse transcriptase‐PCR revealed that the mRNA of GSS was transcribed mainly in the radial nerves.
Evolution of Complementary Peptide Systems
Authors: Lovejoy David A. , Rotzinger Susan , Barsyte‐Lovejoy Dalia
Published: April 2009

In chordates, the corticotropin‐releasing factor (CRF) family of peptides consists of four paralogous lineages that include CRF, urocortin/urotensin‐I, urocortin 2, and urocortin 3. Related to the CRF peptide family is the diuretic hormone family found in insects. This family consists of a number of paralogous lineages within the Insecta. The teneurin C‐terminal‐associated peptides (TCAP) are a recently described family of peptides with evolutionary origins around the same time as the CRF family. This family consists of four independent lineages in chordates that are orthologous to peptides in the Insecta. Like CRF, the peptides are 40 or 41 amino acids in length and share about 20% sequence identity to the CRF family members. Each of the four TCAP peptides is encoded by an exon that is closely associated with the teneurin gene. Recent studies indicate that TCAP can block CRF‐mediated c‐fos expression in the brain and modulate CRF‐mediated behaviors. Thus, the TCAP family may act, in part, to modulate the physiological actions of the CRF family.
Effects of PACAP and Preconditioning against Ischemia/Reperfusion‐induced Cardiomyocyte ApoptosisIn Vitro
Authors: Rőth E. , Wéber G. , Kiss P. , Horváth G. , Tóth G. , Gasz B. , Ferencz A. , Gallyas F. , Reglődi D. , Rácz B.
Published: April 2009

The neuropeptide pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) and its receptors are widely expressed in the nervous system and various other tissues. PACAP exerts strong anti‐apoptotic effects in neuronal cell lines and, according to recent data, also in non‐neuronal cells. The peptide is present in the cardiovascular system and has various distinct effects. We have demonstrated earlier that PACAP has protective effects againstin vitroischemia/reperfusion‐induced apoptosis in cardiomyocytes. Preconditioning with brief intermittent periods of ischemia is known to provide protection against ischemic injury. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether PACAP could enhance the protective effect of preconditioning againstin vitroischemic injury. Cultured cardiomyocytes were exposed to brief preconditioning ischemia followed by 2 h ischemia and 4 h reperfusion. Both PACAP treatment and preconditioning alone significantly increased cell viability and decreased the ratio of cell death. Pretreatment with PACAP was found to further reduce the level of cleaved caspase‐8 but it did not lead to additional survival rate when compared to cells treated with PACAP or preconditioning alone. These results show that although both PACAP and preconditioning have a protective effect against ischemia/reperfusion‐induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis, their effects are not additive.
APRP, the Second Peptide Encoded by the Adipokinetic Hormone Gene(s), Is Highly Conserved in Evolution
Authors: De Loof Arnold , Vandersmissen Tim , Huybrechts Jurgen , Landuyt Bart , Baggerman Geert , Clynen Elke , Lindemans Marleen , Husson Steven J. , Schoofs Liliane
Published: April 2009

Since the early days of cloning the first adipokinetic hormone (AKH) gene, researchers recognized that this gene also codes for a joining region and for a second peptide called adipokinetic hormone precursor related peptide (APRP). In species with more than one AKH gene, such as locusts, APRPs can form both homodimers and heterodimers. Database analysis showed that APRPs might belong to the ancient family of growth hormone releasing factor but they still are functionally orphan. We investigated whether some of the APRP forms play a role in control of reproduction or/and growth via stimulation of ecdysteroidogenesis.
Growth Hormone‐induced Neuroprotection in the Neural Retina during Chick Embryogenesis
Authors: Harvey Steve , Baudet Marie‐Laure , Sanders Esmond J.
Published: April 2009

Recent studies have established that retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) of the neural retina are extrapituitary sites of growth hormone (GH) production and action in early chick embryos prior to the ontogeny of pituitary somatotrophs. The presence of GH in axons of the RGCs is, however, restricted to the period when the retinofugal neurons project to and synapse with visual centers within the brain, suggesting roles for GH in axonal growth or guidance. Autocrine and/or paracrine actions of retinal GH are also neuroprotective for RGCs during developmental waves of apoptosis that characterize RGC differentiation. The anti‐apoptotic actions of retinal GH use signaling mechanisms that are common to other established neurotrophins (e.g., brain‐derived growth factor, insulin‐like growth factor‐1, transforming growth factor β‐1). Retinal GH is therefore a novel neurotrophin in the visual system during chick embryogenesis.
Molecular Mechanisms Underlying PBAN Signaling in the Silkmoth Bombyx mori
Authors: Matsumoto Shogo , Joe Hull J. , Ohnishi Atsushi
Published: April 2009

Pheromone biosynthesis in the silkmoth Bombyx mori is under the control of the neurohormone pheromone biosynthesis activating neuropeptide (PBAN) and is triggered upon PBAN binding to its cognate PBAN receptor on the pheromone gland cells of female moths. Using fluorescent Ca2+ imaging techniques with isolated pheromone glands, we have successfully demonstrated that PBAN specifically evokes an influx of extracellular Ca2+. Furthermore, results from experiments designed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying PBAN signaling indicate that B. mori utilizes the canonical store‐operated channel‐activation pathway and that the influx of extracellular Ca2+ accelerates both lipolysis and fatty acyl reduction through a phosphorylation/dephosphorylation cascade for bombykol production.
Dynamics of Glucocorticoid and Mineralocorticoid Receptors in the Xenopus laevis Pituitary Pars Intermedia
Authors: Roubos Eric W. , Kuribara Miyuki , Kuipers‐Kwant Frouwke J. , Coenen Tony A. J. M. , Meijer Kari H. A. , Cruijsen Peter M. J. M. , Denver Robert J.
Published: April 2009

We showed the presence of glucocorticoid (GR) and mineralocorticoid (MR) receptors in different populations of Xenopus laevis melanotrope cells and revealed their downregulation (MR) and upregulation (GR) during dark background adaptation. Corticosterone did not affect short‐term intracellular calcium dynamics and α‐melanophore‐stimulating hormone secretion, suggesting a role for GR and MR in long‐term processes in the melanotropes.
Expression of the Orphan Nuclear Receptor NR4A in a Putative Adenohypophyseal Homologue of Amphioxus
Authors: Candiani Simona , Moronti Luca , Pestarino Mario
Published: April 2009

Nur77, Nurr1, and NOR‐1 form a subfamily (the NR4A/Nur subfamily) of transcription factors belonging to the family of nuclear receptors. In this report, we characterized the single member of such a subfamily in the amphioxus Branchiostoma floridae. Developmental expression analysis of AmphiNR4A showed transcripts limited to the putative adenohypophyseal homologue of amphioxus.
Evolutionary Conservation of the Cholecystokinin/Gastrin Signaling System in Nematodes
Authors: Janssen Tom , Meelkop Ellen , Nachman Ronald J. , Schoofs Liliane
Published: April 2009

Members of the cholecystokinin (CCK)/gastrin family of peptides, including the arthropod sulfakinins and their cognate receptors, play an important role in the regulation of feeding behavior and energy homeostasis. By using the potential Caenorhabditis elegans CCK receptors as bait, we have isolated and identified two CCK‐like neuropeptides as the endogenous ligands of these nematode receptors. Both receptors and ligands share a high degree of sequence similarity with their vertebrate and arthropod counterparts and also display similar biological activities with respect to digestive enzyme secretion and fat storage. Our data indicate that the CCK/gastrin signaling system was already well established prior to the divergence of protostomes and deuterostomes.
Connexin43 Expression in the Testis of Frog Rana Esculenta: Sex Hormonal Regulation
Authors: Izzo G. , Ferrara D. , Delrio G. , D'Istria M. , Minucci S.
Published: April 2009

Spermatogenesis is the process of proliferating and differentiating germ cells that require highly coordinated cellular interactions. Intercellular junctions are important in maintaining communication between testicular cells. In particular, gap junctions play an important role in this event. Connexin43 (Cx43) is the most abundant protein forming a gap junction in a vertebrate testis. It is expressed in several cells types of Rana esculenta testes. The use of reverse transcriptase‐PCR analysis demonstrates that expression levels of Cx43 are regulated by estradiol and testosterone in both in vivo and in vitro experiments.