bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pheochromocytoma Presenting with Takotsubo Syndrome
Authors: MARCOVITZ PAMELA A. , CZAKO PETER , ROSENBLATT SOLOMON , BILLECKE SCOTT S.
Published: October 2010

The clinical presentation of Takotsubo syndrome, or apical ballooning syndrome, resembles an extensive anterolateral myocardial infarction with chest pain symptoms and electrocardiographic ST‐elevation or T‐wave inversion noted in most patients. However, coronary arteries are invariably found to be normal or to display minimal atherosclerotic disease despite modest elevation of cardiac enzymes. Since most cases of Takotsubo syndrome occur after intense physical and/or emotional stress, catecholamine surge appears to be a common underlying mechanism. We present a case of Takotsubo syndrome, which presented with unusual symptoms and was found to be caused by pheochromocytoma. A sudden rise in blood pressure moments after completion of echocardiographic stress testing aided in uncovering the diagnosis. (J Interven Cardiol 2010;23:437–442)
How Electoral Systems Can Influence Policy Innovation
Authors: Orellana Salomon
Published: October 2010

This paper argues that in certain areas of policy, electoral systems can influence policy innovation (how early countries will adopt certain policies). Electoral systems influence the number of parties that win representation and thereby influence the diversity of perspectives included in the policymaking process. It is argued here that this diversity facilitates elite and public consideration of new issues and ideas, and consequently, it leads to earlier debate and action on these issues and ideas. This dynamic is particularly relevant to controversial issues and ideas that major parties may be hesitant to address and that minor parties may be more incentivized to promote. In this paper, two issues/ideas are considered: extending rights to same‐sex couples and making material sacrifices to protect the environment. I show that countries with more proportional electoral systems tend to act earlier to protect the environment and that they tend to be early adopters of civil union legislation. These results are also supported by World Values Survey data showing public preference patterns that support these policy outcomes.
Symbolic Meanings and the Feasibility of Policy Images: Relocating Military Bases to the Periphery in Israel
Authors: Tzfadia Erez , Levy Yagil , Oren Amiram
Published: October 2010

This article is aimed at crafting an interpretive policy analysis as a predictive tool by using the proposal to relocate Israeli military bases. Since the mid‐2000s, the Israeli government has promoted a new plan to transfer military bases from urban areas and central regions to the southern metropolitan area in the Negev desert. The economic and operational logic behind the program is unclear and prompts serious debate about nationality, ethnicity, economic gaps, and the environment in the Negev. This area epitomizes marginality in Israel, both socially and geographically, and is characterized by conflicts between Jews and Bedouins. Thus, the program can be regarded as one involving policy images, where potential participants lack the information necessary for understanding the goals of the policy. This paper proposes a new methodology based on interpretive policy analysis for conducting a pilot study to evaluate the feasibility and practicality of the proposed program. We use this methodology to analyze the symbolic meanings that local organizations attribute to the program with the goal of predicting their response to this program. Thus, the relocation plan serves as a template on which to develop and test the IPA‐informed evaluative methodology, which is applicable to other cases.
United States–Mexico: The Convergence of Public Policy Views in the Post‐9/11 World
Authors: Valeriano Brandon , Powers Matthew
Published: October 2010

This article explores the state of public policy preferences between the United States and Mexico in the realm of foreign policy in the context of the post‐9/11 world, democratic change within Mexico, and the immigration protests within the United States. Specifically, we will analyze the differences and possible convergence of public policy views on the issues of terrorism, immigration, free trade agreements, drug trafficking, and foreign policy. We find that although there are differences of opinion, particularly in the application of force in Iraq and on the benefits of free trade, there still remains a significant degree of positive convergence within the policy issues of terrorism, immigration, and drug trafficking. Although there are institutional impediments to progressive policy change, future relations between the United States and Mexico do not need to be contentious as long as the focus is on the similarities, rather than the differences, in public preferences between the populations of the two states.
Dehydration and rehydration in competative sport
Authors: Maughan R. J. , Shirreffs S. M.
Published: October 2010

Dehydration, if sufficiently severe, impairs both physical and mental performance, and performance decrements are greater in hot environments and in long‐lasting exercise. Athletes should begin exercise well hydrated and should drink during exercise to limit water and salt deficits. Many athletes are dehydrated to some degree when they begin exercise. During exercise, most drink less than their sweat losses, some drink too much and a few develop hyponatraemia. Athletes should learn to assess their hydration needs and develop a personalized hydration strategy that takes account of exercise, environment and individual needs. Pre‐exercise hydration status can be assessed from urine frequency and volume, with additional information from urine color, specific gravity or osmolality. Changes in hydration status during exercise can be estimated from the change in body mass: sweat rate can be estimated if fluid intake and urinary losses are also measured. Sweat salt losses can be determined by collection and analysis of sweat samples. An appropriate, individualized drinking strategy will take account of pre‐exercise hydration status and of fluid, electrolyte and substrate needs before, during and after a period of exercise.
Different effects of heat exposure upon exercise performance in the morning and afternoon
Authors: Racinais S.
Published: October 2010

Independent of environmental conditions, rectal temperature follows a circadian rhythm with an acrophase in the late afternoon. In neutral environment, this diurnal increase in temperature is believed to have a passive warm‐up effect improving muscle contractility, and in turn, muscle force, power and performance. However, a hot environment blunts the diurnal variation in muscle function by only improving muscle contractility, and in turn, muscle force, power and performance in the morning, when body temperature is at its lowest. Despite this diurnal variation in muscle function, long‐duration exercise is only slightly affected by the time‐of‐day in neutral environment. However, higher afternoon body temperatures can reduce the heat storage capacity and result in a reduction in exercise capacity in hot environments. In addition, in parallel to the circadian variations in muscle contractility and central temperature, exercise capacity in hot environment may also be affected by the diurnal variations in melatonin concentration and in the onset of peripheral vasodilatation and sweating.
Hydration and sweating responses to hot‐weather football competition
Authors: Kurdak S. S. , Shirreffs S. M. , Maughan R. J. , Ozgünen K. T. , Zeren Ç. , Korkmaz S. , Yazici Z. , Ersöz G. , Binnet M. S. , Dvorak J.
Published: October 2010

During a football match played in warm (34.3 ± 0.6 °C), humid (64 ± 2% rh) conditions, 22 male players had their pre‐match hydration status, body mass change, sweat loss and drinking behavior assessed. Pre‐match urine specific gravity (1.012 ± 0.006) suggested that all but three players commenced the match euhydrated. Players lost 3.1 ± 0.6 L of sweat and 45 ± 9 mmol of sodium during the 90‐min match and replaced 55 ± 19% of their sweat losses and hence by the end of the game were 2.2 ± 0.9% lighter. The water volume consumed during the game was highly variable (1653 ± 487 mL; 741–2387 mL) but there was a stronger relationship between the estimated pre‐game hydration status and water volume consumed, than between sweat rate and water volume consumed. In a second match, with the same players 2 weeks later in 34.4 ± 0.6 °C, 65 ± 3% rh, 11 players had a sports drink available to them before and during the match in addition to water. Total drink volume consumed during the match was the same, but approximately half the volume was consumed as sports drink. The results indicate that substantial sweat water and electrolyte losses can occur during match play in hot conditions and a substantial water and sodium deficit can occur in many players even when water or sports drink is freely available.
Effect of hot environmental conditions on physical activity patterns and temperature response of football players
Authors: Özgünen K. T. , Kurdak S. S. , Maughan R. J. , Zeren Ç. , Korkmaz S. , Yazιcι Z. , Ersöz G. , Shirreffs S. M. , Binnet M. S. , Dvorak J.
Published: October 2010

Heat stress may contribute to decreased match performance when football is played in extreme heat. This study evaluated activity patterns and thermal responses of players during soccer matches played in different environmental conditions. Non‐acclimatized soccer players (n=11, 20±2 years) played two matches in conditions of moderate heat (MH) and high heat (HH) index. Core temperature (Tc) and physical performance were measured using a telemetric sensor and a global positioning system, respectively. The average ambient temperature and relative humidity were MH 34±1 °C and 38±2%; HH 36±0 °C and 61±1%. Peak Tc in the MH match was 39.1±0.4 °C and in the HH match it was 39.6±0.3 °C. The total distance covered in the first and second halves was 4386±367 and 4227±292 m for the MH match and 4301±487 and 3761±358 m for the HH match. Players covered more distance (P<0.001) in the first half of the HH match than in the second half. In football matches played at high environmental temperature and humidity, the physical performance of the players may decrease due to high thermal stress.
The effects of exercise, heat, cooling and rehydration strategies on cognitive function in football players
Authors: Bandelow S. , Maughan R. , Shirreffs S. , Ozgünen K. , Kurdak S. , Ersöz G. , Binnet M. , Dvorak J.
Published: October 2010

We investigated the cognitive effects of exercising in the heat on the field players of two football teams in a series of three matches. Different rehydration and cooling strategies were used for one of the teams during the last two games. Cognitive functions were measured before, during and immediately after each football match, as well as core temperature, body mass, plasma osmolality and glucose levels, allowing an estimate of their differential impacts on cognition. The pattern of results suggests that mild–moderate dehydration during exercise in the heat (up to 2.5%) has no clear effect on cognitive function. Instead, plasma glucose and core temperature changes appear to be the main determinants: higher glucose was related to faster and less accurate performance, whereas core temperature rises had the opposite effect. The 50% correlation between plasma glucose and core temperatures observed during exercise in the heat may help to stabilize cognitive performance via their opposing effects. The glucose‐like effects of sports drinks appear to be mediated by increased plasma glucose levels, because drinks effects became non‐significant when plasma glucose levels were added to the models. The cooling intervention had only a beneficial effect on complex visuo‐motor speed.
In vivo Imaging of Retrogradely Transported Synaptic Vesicle Proteins in Caenorhabditis elegans Neurons
Authors: Murthy Kausalya , Bhat Jaffar M. , Koushika Sandhya P.
Published: October 2010

Axonal transport is an essential process that carries cargoes in the anterograde direction to the synapse and in the retrograde direction back to the cell body. We have developed a novel in vivo method to exclusively mark and dynamically track retrogradely moving compartments carrying specific endogenous synaptic vesicle proteins in the Caenorhabditis elegans model. Our method is based on the uptake of a fluorescently labeled anti‐green fluorescent protein (GFP) antibody delivered in an animal expressing the synaptic vesicle protein synaptobrevin‐1::GFP in neurons. We show that this method largely labels retrogradely moving compartments. Very little labeling is observed upon blocking vesicle exocytosis or if the synapse is physically separated from the cell body. The extent of labeling is also dependent on the dyenin–dynactin complex. These data support the interpretation that the labeling of synaptobrevin‐1::GFP largely occurs after vesicle fusion and the major labeling likely takes place at the synapse. Further, we observe that the retrograde compartment carrying synaptobrevin contains synaptotagmin but lacks the endosomal marker RAB‐5. This labeling method is very general and can be readily adapted to any transmembrane protein on synaptic vesicles with a GFP tag inside the vesicle and can also be extended to other model systems.
A Multidisciplinary Approach to the Functional and Esthetic Rehabilitation of Amelogenesis Imperfecta and Open Bite Deformity: A Case Report
Authors: GISLER VANESSA , ENKLING NORBERT , ZIX JÜRGEN , KIM KLARA , KELLERHOFF NADJA‐MARINA , MERICSKE‐STERN REGINA
Published: October 2010

The treatment of amelogenesis imperfecta (AI) with an anterior open bite (AOB) is a challenge for the clinician and often requires a multidisciplinary team of specialists. Most often, patients suffering from these conditions are young and a good functional and esthetic long‐term result must be aspired. This clinical report illustrates the orthodontic, maxillofacial, restorative, and prosthodontic rehabilitation of a 20‐year‐old woman with a hypoplastic form of AI and an AOB malocclusion, having received treatment for the last 6 years. It included adhesive resin composite restorations, orthodontical and maxillofacial surgery with a one‐piece Le Fort I osteotomy, and a genioplasty. Subsequent prosthodontic therapy consisted of 28 all‐ceramic crowns whereby a solid interdigitation, a canine guidance, and consistent and regular contacts between tooth crowns could be achieved to assure a good functional and esthetic oral situation. The tooth preparation techniques guaranteed minimally invasive treatment. The patient was affected very positively.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

This article describes an interdisciplinary approach to the successful treatment of a patient with a hypoplastic form of amelogenesis imperfecta over a period of 6 years. It starts with a discussion of the conservative steps taken during adolescence and concludes with the final prosthetic rehabilitation with all‐ceramic crowns after reaching adulthood.

(J Esthet Restor Dent 22:282–296, 2010)
In Vivo Temperature Measurement: Tooth Preparation and Restoration with Preheated Resin Composite
Authors: RUEGGEBERG FREDERICK A. , DARONCH MÁRCIA , BROWNING WILLIAM D. , DE GOES MARIO F.
Published: October 2010

Statement of the Problem:  Composite preheating has shown to improve material physical properties in vitro, but no data exist on the use of this technique in vivo during placement.

Purpose:  The study aims to measure in vivo prepared tooth surface temperature during a restorative procedure using resin composite either at room temperature (23.6°C) or preheated to 54.7°C in a commercial compule heating device set to heat at 60°C.

Methods:  Class I preparations (N = 3) were made on a patient requiring multiple posterior restorations. A probe containing two thermocouples was used to record temperature values at the tooth pulpal floor and 2 mm higher (top of the tooth preparation/restoration) after tooth preparation (prep), acid etching (etch), placement and curing of a bonding agent (BA), and during placement of composite used at room temperature (RT) or preheated in a commercial device (CalsetTM, AdDent Inc., Danbury, CT, USA) set to 60°C. Data were compared with two‐way analysis of variance, Tukey–Kramer post hoc test (α = 0.05).

Results:  No significant difference in pulpal floor temperature existed between prep (27.8° ± 1.3°C) and etch (26.3° ± 1.3°C), which were significantly lower than BA (30.5° ± 1.3°C) (p = 0.0001). Immediate placement of preheated composite resulted in significantly higher pulpal floor (36.2° ± 1.9°C) (p = 0.0025) and top composite temperatures (38.4° ± 2.2°C) (p = 0.0034) than RT values (30.4° ± 2.2°C and 29.6° ± 0.9°C, respectively).

Conclusions:  In vivo use and placement of preheated resin composite resulted in temperature increase of 6° to 8°C than room temperature material. These values, however, were much lower than expected.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Although having many potential benefits, composite preheating may not be as clinically effective in delivering resin of predetermined temperature at the time of cure as laboratory experiments would suggest. Despite only moderate composite temperature increase over use of room temperature material, preheating still provides advantages in terms of ease of handling and placement.

(J Esthet Restor Dent 22:314–323, 2010)
Sexual Behaviors, Condom Use, and Sexual Health of Americans Over 50: Implications for Sexual Health Promotion for Older Adults
Authors: Schick Vanessa , Herbenick Debby , Reece Michael , Sanders Stephanie A. , Dodge Brian , Middlestadt Susan E. , Fortenberry J. Dennis
Published: October 2010

Introduction

In the contemporary U.S., men and women are living longer and healthier lives. As such, many people spend greater portions of their lives as sexually active individuals. Yet, little is known about the myriad of ways that older adults experience their sexual lives.

Aim

This study sought to assess the context and frequency of sexual behaviors, condom use, sexual pleasure, and sexual experience of men and women over age 50.

Methods

Information regarding the sexual experiences of a nationally representative sample of men and women over age 50 within the past year was examined.

Main Outcome Measures

Sexual behavior over the past year was assessed in relation to several situational and contextual characteristics (e.g., event location, type of partner, health status, condom use). Participants were also asked about their experience (i.e., pleasure, arousal, pain, lubrication/erectile difficulties, and orgasm) during their most recent partnered sexual event. Bivariate or ordinal logistic regression models were used to investigate the relationship of age, health and partner status to sexual frequency and experience.

Results

Although sizable proportions (20–30%) of both men and women remained sexually active well into their 80s age was related to a lower likelihood of solo and most partnered sexual behaviors. When controlling for age, relationship status, and health remained significant predictors of select sexual behaviors. The participant’s evaluation of their most recent sexual experience in terms of arousal, erectile difficulty, and orgasm all declined with age. Health status was related to men’s evaluation of the experience. Relationship status was the most consistent predictor of women’s evaluation of the experience. Condom use rates remained low for participants across age groups.

Conclusion

Many older adults continue be sexually active well into advanced age (80+). Thus, providers need to be attentive to the diverse sexual health needs of older adults.
Condom Use Rates in a National Probability Sample of Males and Females Ages 14 to 94 in the United States
Authors: Reece Michael , Herbenick Debby , Schick Vanessa , Sanders Stephanie A. , Dodge Brian , Fortenberry J. Dennis
Published: October 2010

Introduction

Given the efficacy of latex condoms for preventing pregnancy, HIV, and most STI, their promotion remains central to global sexual health efforts. To inform the development of accurate and appropriately-targeted interventions, there is a need for contemporary condom use rates among specific populations.

Aims

The purpose of this study was to establish rates of condom use among sexually active individuals in the U.S. population.

Methods

Data were collected via a national probability sample of 5,865 U.S. adolescents and adults aged 14 to 94 years.

Main Outcome Measures

Condom use was assessed during the most recent partnered vaginal or anal sexual event and over the past 10 vaginal and anal intercourse events.

Results

Condom use by men during past 10 vaginal intercourse events was slightly higher (21.5%) than that reported by women (18.4%), and consistent with rates of condom use reported during most recent vaginal intercourse by men (24.7%) and women (21.8%). Adolescent men reported condom use during 79.1% of the past 10 vaginal intercourse events, adolescent women reported use during 58.1% of the same. Condom use during past 10 anal intercourse events was higher among men (25.8%) than women (13.2%); the same was observed for most recent anal intercourse event (26.5% for insertive men, 44.1% for receptive men, and 10.8% for receptive women). Generally, condom use was highest among unmarried adults, higher among adolescents than adults, and higher among black and Hispanic individuals when compared with other racial groups.

Conclusion

These data indicate clear trends in condom use across age, gender, relationship status, and race/ethnicity. These contemporary rates of condom use will be helpful to those who lead efforts to increase condom use among individuals who may be at risk for sexually transmitted infections or who desire to prevent pregnancy.
Future Sexual Medicine Physiological Treatment Targets
Authors: Burnett Arthur L. , Goldstein Irwin , Andersson Karl-Erik , Argiolas Antonio , Christ George , Park Kwangsung , Xin Zhong C.
Published: October 2010

Introduction

Sexual function in men and women incorporates physiologic processes and regulation of the central and peripheral nervous systems, the vascular system, and the endocrine system. There is need for state-of-the-art information as there is an evolving research understanding of the underlying molecular biological factors and mechanisms governing sexual physiologic functions.

Aim

To develop an evidence-based, state-of-the-art consensus report on the current knowledge of the major cellular and molecular targets of biologic systems responsible for sexual physiologic function.

Methods

State-of-the-art knowledge representing the opinions of seven experts from four countries was developed in a consensus process over a 2-year period.

Main Outcome Measures

Expert opinion was based on the grading of evidence-based medical literature, widespread internal committee discussion, public presentation, and debate.

Results

Scientific investigation in this field is needed to increase knowledge and foster development of the future line of treatments for all forms of biological-based sexual dysfunction. This article addresses the current knowledge of the major cellular and molecular targets of biological systems responsible for sexual physiologic function. Future treatment targets include growth factor therapy, gene therapy, stem and cell-based therapies, and regenerative medicine.

Conclusions

Scientific discovery is critically important for developing new and increasingly effective treatments in sexual medicine. Broad physiologic directions should be vigorously explored and considered for future management of sexual disorders.
Education in Sexual Medicine: Proceedings from the International Consultation in Sexual Medicine, 2009
Authors: Parish Sharon J. , Rubio-Aurioles Eusebio
Published: October 2010

Introduction

Sexual problems in men and women are common; and physicians endorse many barriers to addressing these issues, including lack of knowledge about the diagnosis and management of sexual problems and inadequate training in sexual health communication and counseling.

Aim

To update the recommendations published in 2004, from the International Consultation on Sexual Medicine (ICSM) relevant to the educational aspects of sexual health in undergraduate, graduate, and postgraducate medical education.

Methods

A third international consultation in collaboration with the major sexual health organizations assembled over 186 multidisciplinary experts from 33 countries into 25 committees. Three experts from three countries contributed to this committee’s review of Education in Sexual Medicine.

Main Outcome Measure

Expert opinion was based on a comprehensive review of the medical literature, committee discussion, public presentation, and debate.

Results

A comprehensive review about the current state of undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate sexual health education worldwide is provided. Recommendations about ideal sexual health curricula across training levels are provided. Best methods for achieving optimal training approaches to sexual health communication and interviewing, clinical skills and management, and counseling are described.

Conclusions

Current sexual health education for undergraduate and practicing physicians is inadequate to meet the advancing science and technology and increasing patient demand for high-quality sexual health care. There is a need for enhanced training in medical institutions responsible for physician sexual health training worldwide. Future training programs at all levels of medical education should incorporate standardized measures of sexual health clinical skills acquisition and assessments of the impact on patient outcomes into the design of educational initiatives.
The Effects of Anti-TNF-α Antibody on Hyperprolactinemia-Related Suppression of hCG-Induced Testosterone Release in Male Rats
Authors: Huang William J.S. , Yang Ling-Yu , Pu Hsiao-Fung , Tsai Yi-Ting , Wang Paulus S.
Published: October 2010

Introduction

Hyperprolactinemia (hyperPRL)-related hypogonadism or suppression of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)-induced testosterone (T) release is hypothesized to be mediated by a testicular interstitial macrophage and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α)-involved blockage.

Aim

To test if the lower T response after hCG challenge in the hyperPRL rats is reversed by administrating anti-TNF-α antibody (Ab).

Methods

HyperPRL was induced by allografting two anterior pituitary (AP) glands per rat. Control rats were grafted with similar amount of cerebral cortex. The testicular interstitial cells (TIC) were isolated from the testis 6 weeks after grafting. TIC was treated with anti-TNF-α Ab with or without hCG. The other groups of rats received intra-testicular or intra-muscular anti-TNF-α Ab 7 days before in vitro study. The TIC isolated from each testis was incubated and T release with or without hCG challenge were measured.

Main Outcome Measures

Prolactin (PRL) and T were measured by radioimmunoassay. TNF-α was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

When low dose of anti-TNF-α Ab was administered to the TIC incubation, the effects of PRL-related suppression of hCG-stimulated T release were not significant. While a higher dose of anti-TNF-α Ab almost abolished the suppressive effects of PRL to hCG-stimulated T release. Prior intra-testicular or intra-muscular administration of anti-TNF-α Ab reversed the suppressive effects of AP grafting on TIC’s T release. This was demonstrated in groups with anti-TNF-α Ab injection both 7 and 1 day prior to TIC incubations.

Conclusions

The data support the hypothesis that the suppression of hCG-induced T release associated with hyperPRL is through a TNF-α-mediated mechanism to suppress the Leydig cells. The effect of anti-TNF-α Ab is durable for at least 7 days. Besides intra-testicular injection, there might be other ways available for administrating Ab. Anti-TNF-α Ab has a potential therapeutic application on hyperPRL-induced hypogonadism or suppression of hCG-induced T release.
Investigation of the Neural Target Level of Hyperthyroidism in Premature Ejaculation in a Rat Model of Pharmacologically Induced Ejaculation
Authors: Cahangirov Asif , Cihan Ahmet , Murat Nergis , Demir Omer , Aslan Guven , Gidener Sedef , Esen Ahmet Adil
Published: October 2010

Introduction

Association between hyperthyroidism and premature ejaculation was demonstrated in clinical studies.

Aim

The aim of this study is to determine the target level of changes on ejaculatory physiology under hyperthyroid states.

Methods

p-Chloroamphetamine (PCA)-induced pharmacologic ejaculation model with 24 male Wistar rats was used in the study. Subcutaneous injection of L-thyroxine for 14 days was performed to induce hyperthyroidism. At the end of the injection period, thyroid hormone status was evaluated by serum thyroid-stimulating hormone measurements in all rats. At the beginning of the operations, complete spinal transections (tx) at the T8-T9 level were performed to half of the L-thyroxine-injected and control group rats. Thus, experimental groups were constructed as follows: Group 1—control-spinal intact (n = 6), group 2—control-spinal tx (n = 6), group 3—hyperthyroid-spinal intact (n = 6), and group 4—hyperthyroid-spinal tx (n = 6). Ejaculatory responses were recorded before and 30 minutes after intraperitoneal administration of 5 mg/kg PCA.

Main Outcome Measures

During the operations, seminal vesicle (SV) catheterization and bulbospongiosus (BS) muscle dissections were performed in all rats to demonstrate SV pressure (SVP) BS electromyographic (EMG) activity changes.

Results

Following PCA administration SVP tonic amplitude, SV phasic contraction (SVPC) frequency, SVPC maximal amplitude, and BS EMG area under curve values were higher in hyperthyroid intact rats than in control intact rats. The time interval between PCA administration and first ejaculation of hyperthyroid intact rats were significantly shorter than control intact rats (261 ± 7.30 seconds vs. 426 ± 49.6 seconds, P = 0.008). All of the changes in the ejaculatory parameters that were induced by hyperthyroidism were completely resolved after spinal transections at the T8-T9 level in group 4.

Conclusion

In this study, we confirmed the recent data that hyperthyroidism affects both the emission and expulsion phases of ejaculation. The changes that were induced by hyperthyroidism on ejaculatory physiology probably take place in the supraspinal centers above T8 level.
Psychometric Properties of the Spanish Version of the Changes in Sexual Functioning Questionnaire Short-Form (CSFQ-14) in Patients with Severe Mental Disorders
Authors: Garcia-Portilla Maria Paz , Saiz Pilar Alejandra , Fonseca Eduardo , Al-Halabi Susana , Bobes-Bascaran Maria Teresa , Arrojo Manuel , Benabarre Antonio , Goikolea Jose Manuel , Sanchez Emilio , Sarramea Fernando , Bobes Julio
Published: October 2010

Introduction

Sexual dysfunction in patients with severe mental disorders is often underestimated or overlooked by psychiatrists. A brief and valid self-report instrument for assessing sexual functioning may well contribute to changing this situation.

Aims

To validate the Short Form of the Changes in Sexual Functioning Questionnaire (CSFQ-14) in Spanish patients with severe mental disorders.

Methods

Naturalistic, cross-sectional, multicenter, validation study. Eighty-nine patients with schizophrenia and 82 with bipolar disorder were evaluated using the CSFQ-14, the Visual Analogue Scale for Sexual Functioning Satisfaction (VAS-SFS), and the Clinical Global Impression—Severity scales for mental disorders (CGI-S) and for Sexual Dysfunction (CGI-SSD).

Main Outcome Measures

The 14-item Changes in Sexual Functioning Questionnaire.

Results

Internal reliability (Cronbach's alpha)=0.90. Construct validity=3 principal components, of which the first, arousal-orgasm, explained 46.4% of the total variance. Convergent validity: Pearson correlation coefficients between CSFQ-14 and VAS-SFS=0.33 (P <0.01) and between CSFQ-14 and CGI-SDS=−0.71 (P <0.01). Discriminant validity: The CSFQ-14 was able to discriminate among patients with no, mild, moderate, and severe sexual dysfunction according to CGI-SDS scores, both in males (P <0.001) and females (P <0.001). In males, the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.833 and a cutoff point of 49 provided a sensitivity of 92.9% and a specificity of 59.5%. In females, the AUC was 0.834 and a cutoff point of 43 provided a sensitivity of 91.9% and a specificity of 62.5%.

Conclusion

The Spanish version of the CSFQ-14 is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing sexual functioning in patients with severe mental disorders. As a brief, self-rated instrument, the CSFQ-14 scale seems to be appropriate for use in everyday clinical practice as a means of identifying and monitoring changes in sexual functioning.
How Do Continence Nurses Address Sexual Function and a History of Sexual Abuse in Daily Practice? Results of a Pilot Study
Authors: Bekker Milou D. , Van Driel Mels F. , Pelger Rob C.M. , Lycklamaà Nijeholt Guus A.B. , Elzevier Henk W.
Published: October 2010

Introduction

There is a strong association between urological complaints, sexual dysfunction, and history of sexual abuse (SA), and it is unknown whether urological continence nurses integrate this knowledge in their daily practice.

Aim

To evaluate how, in their daily practice, Dutch urological continence nurses address sexual dysfunction and possible SA.

Methods

An anonymous 19-item questionnaire was distributed among all Dutch urinary continence nurses visiting their yearly congress.

Main Outcome Measures

The survey results.

Results

The response rate was 48.9% (93/190). Of the respondents, 11.8% did not ask their female patients about sexual function; 37.6% asked only rarely; 44.1% asked often; and 6.5% always asked. Sexual functioning in males was not evaluated by the majority of the nurses (13.2% never, and 46.2% rarely). A minority of continence nurses asked males about sexual functioning (36.3% often and 4.3% always). Important reasons for not asking were insufficient knowledge of how to adequately ask males (38.9%) and females (47.8%) about sexual problems, and because nurses assumed the urologist had addressed this issue (48.1% asking males, 39.1% asking females). Younger nurses found it particularly difficult to raise sexual issues with both male and female patients (P = 0.001 and P = 0.003, respectively). Screening for sexual dysfunction was stated to be important by almost all nurses (65.2% “quite important,” and 31.5% “very important”). Within their patient population, both male and female, 28% of the nurses never asked about SA and 49.5% asked only rarely.

Conclusion

Dutch urological incontinence nurses acknowledge the importance of sexual problems in their patient population, but asking about this issue was not part of routine care. The main reasons for not asking, according to the nurses’ responses, were that they had insufficient knowledge and that they assumed the urologist had already asked about sexual problems.
Early Versus Late Rehabilitation of Erectile Function after Nerve-Sparing Radical Cystoprostatectomy: A Prospective Randomized Study
Authors: Mosbah Ahmed , El Bahnasawy Magdy , Osman Yasser , Hekal Ihab A. , Abou-Beih Essam , Shaaban Atallah
Published: October 2010

Introduction

Pharmacological rehabilitation of erectile function (EF) after nerve-sparing radical prostatectomy was repeatedly advocated.

Aim

To compare early vs. late penile rehabilitation in patients with nerve-sparing (NS) radical cystoprostatectomy based on a prospective randomized trial.

Methods

Eighteen patients without spontaneous erection 8 weeks after NS radical cystoprostatectomy were randomly divided into two groups; group I and II who started the erectogenic therapy at the 2nd and 6th month postoperatively, respectively. The pharmacological therapy constitutes of sildenafil citrate twice weekly to be shifted to intracavernosal injection (ICI) of prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) if not responding. The treatment continued for 6 months in both groups.

Main Outcome Measures

The EF status was evaluated before and at the end of the treatment by International Index of Erectile Function questionnaire and penile Doppler ultrasonography (PDU).

Results

Six out of nine patients recovered unassisted erection after treatment in group I compared to three out of nine patients in group II. Two patients in group I and three patients in group II were maintained on sildenafil therapy on demand basis. The remaining four patients were dependent on ICI of PGE1. At final evaluation, a significant improvement was found in the EF, the intercourse satisfaction and overall satisfaction domains (P = 0.02, 0.03, and 0.02, respectively) in group I compared with group II. Regarding PDU findings, significant improvement in end-diastolic velocity was elicited in the early rehabilitation group compared with the pretreatment value (P = 0.03) with no significant difference between both groups.

Conclusion

Early compared with delayed erectile rehabilitation brings forward the natural healing time of potency and maintains nerve-assisted erection.
Increased Cavernous Expression of Transforming Growth Factor-β1 and Activation of the Smad Signaling Pathway Affects Erectile Dysfunction in Men with Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Shin Tae-Young , Ryu Ji-Kan , Jin Hai-Rong , Piao Shuguang , Tumurbaatar Munkhbayar , Yin Guo Nan , Shin Sun Hwa , Kwon Mi-Hye , Song Kang-Moon , Fang Zheng-Huan , Han Jee-Young , Kim Woo Jean , Suh Jun-Kyu
Published: October 2010

Introduction

Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) is implicated in bladder fibrosis after spinal cord injury (SCI) and in the fibrosis in the corpus cavernosum tissue after cavernous nerve injury.

Aim

We investigated the differential expression of TGF-β1 and the Smad transcription factor, the key molecule for the initiation of TGF-β-mediated fibrosis, in cavernous tissue from SCI patients.

Methods

After obtaining informed consent and approval from the patients and our institutional review board, we enrolled 5 patients with psychogenic erectile dysfunction (ED) (mean age 36.8 years; range 20–50 years) and 10 patients with neurogenic ED from SCI (mean age 38.8 years; range 18–50 years). Cavernous tissues were obtained by percutaneous biopsy and stained with Masson trichrome, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate nick end labeling (TUNEL), or antibodies to TGF-β1 and phospho-Smad2.

Main Outcome Measures

Semi-quantitative analysis of TGF-β1 and phospho-Smad2 was performed, and the numbers of apoptotic cells were counted. We also quantified the cavernous collagen area with the use of an image analyzer system.

Results

The expression of TGF-β1 and phospho-Smad2 protein was significantly higher in the SCI group than in the psychogenic group. The TUNEL assay revealed a higher apoptotic index in the SCI group than in the psychogenic group. Higher TGF-β1 and phospho-Smad2 expression and more apoptotic cells were noted mainly in endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and fibroblasts of the SCI group. Double labeling of cavernous tissue with TUNEL and antibody to phospho-Smad2 revealed that most TUNEL-positive cells showed immunoreactivity to phospho-Smad2 staining. Cavernous collagen content was significantly greater in the SCI group than in the psychogenic group.

Conclusion

Upregulation of TGF-β1 and activation of the Smad signaling pathway may play important roles in SCI-induced cavernous fibrosis and deterioration of erectile function, which warrants early pharmacological intervention to protect erectile tissue from irreversible damage.
The Remediation of Perchloroethylene Contaminated Groundwater by Nanoscale Iron Reactive Barrier Integrated with Surfactant and Electrokinetics
Authors: Chen Shin‐Shian , Huang Yi‐Chu , Kuo Tzu‐Yen
Published: October 2010

In this study, nanoscale zero‐valent iron (NZVI) particles were synthesized and utilized to integrate with surfactant and electrokinetics for the remediation of perchloroethylene (PCE). The average particle diameter and specific surface area of the lab‐synthesized iron particles were 109.3 nm and 129.7 m2 g–1, respectively. Experiments were performed in a glass sandbox to simulate the transport and degradation of PCE in the aquifer. The results of the transport tests revealed that the PCE concentrations at the bottom layer was higher than those at the mid and upper layers, and that the surfactant Tween 80 showed its conspicuous mobilization for PCE in the aquifer. As the results of the degradation tests showed, NZVI activity could be promoted by electrokinetics that enhanced the remediation performance of PCE contaminated groundwater by the NZVI reactive barrier. Chlorinated byproducts were not detected during the degradation tests, that is, PCE was completely dechlorinated by NZVI in the reactive barrier. The information collected from this study will be useful for further application of the NZVI reactive barrier system to remediate the aquifers contaminated by the chlorinated solvents.
Mobility Enhancement of Mn Oxide during Permanganate Oxidation of TCE
Authors: Sra Kanwartej S.
Published: October 2010

Manganese (Mn) oxide precipitation during in situ permanganate oxidation of organic compounds can cause pore clogging, reduce permeability, and increase resistance to mass transfer. Stability of Mn oxide is required to enhance oxidation effectiveness. Batch tests were conducted at eight polyphosphate (PP) to permanganate () mass ratios (0 to 8) at three MnO4−1 concentrations (500, 1000, or 2000 mg/L) for identifying mass ratios to maximize stability of Mn oxide produced in the presence of trichloroethylene (TCE). In general, stability of Mn oxide was the maximum at mass ratio of approximately 4. Three column tests were designed to investigate the impact of PP on overall removal of 4.6 or 7.0 g TCE emplaced as nonaqueous phase liquid within the column porous media. Water flush, chemical flush using alone (1000 mg/L), and chemical flush using (1000 mg/L) and PP (4000 mg/L) were conducted. Mass removal of TCE and changes in media permeability were estimated over a period of 78 to 312 h (12 to 49 pore volumes [PVs]). Column tests demonstrated enhanced removal (~90%) of TCE during chemical flush with and PP in 12 PVs as compared with approximately 64% during ‐only flush and approximately 26% during water flush. Pressure drop changes across the column captured change in media permeability and revealed that water flush and PP and flush caused significantly lower flow resistance as compared with ‐only flush. These results indicate that PP was capable of mobilizing Mn oxide away from the reaction zones, thereby reducing pore clogging and enabling better and long‐term contact between TCE and the aqueous phase.
The interface between veterinary and human antibiotic use
Authors: Shryock Thomas R. , Richwine Amy
Published: October 2010

The identification and early development of novel antimicrobial agents for use in veterinary medicine is subject to many of the same business and technical challenges as those found in antimicrobial agent use for human infectious disease. However, as awareness that some of the antimicrobial classes used in veterinary medicine are the same as used in human medicine, concern by multiple stakeholders has increased that this nonhuman use might be contributing to the problem of antimicrobial resistance to pathogens in humans, particularly with regard to food‐borne diseases, such as salmonellosis and campylobacteriosis. Consequently, the interface between veterinary and human antibiotic use and resistance, especially with respect to human microbial food safety, has begun to redirect the industry pipeline of novel antimicrobial agents to be commercialized for use in veterinary medicine.
Eskimo‐Aleut Languages
Authors: Johns Alana
Published: October 2010

This article provides an overview of some key properties of Eskimo‐Aleut languages. It discusses the geographic range and number of speakers of these languages, some of which are seriously endangered. It also provides examples and discussion of the polysynthetic nature of some of these languages, where a single word can have the interpretation of a sentence. An intriguing property of the Aleut language is its anaphoric agreement, which provides challenges for syntactic analyses. Within Eskimo‐Aleut, we find languages that seem to lack tense, while closely related members have a finely graded tense system.
An Introduction to Harmonic Serialism
Authors: McCarthy John J.
Published: October 2010

Harmonic Serialism is a derivational version of Optimality Theory. This article describes the principles of Harmonic Serialism and the arguments for it. Evidence is drawn from the typology and other properties of various phonological phenomena: stress, syncope, assimilation, and positional neutralization.
Instructional Pragmatics: Bridging Teaching, Research, and Teacher Education
Authors: Ishihara Noriko
Published: October 2010

Pragmatics deals with meaning in context that is the meaning conveyed often indirectly beyond what is literally communicated. Ever since Hymes (1972, Sociolinguistics: Selected readings, Penguin, Harmondsworth, England, 269–93) highlighted the importance of socially appropriate language use, ability to use language in context has been identified as an essential component of communicative competence (e.g., Canale and Swain, 1980, Applied Linguistics, 1: 1–47; Canale, 1983, Language and communication, Longman, Harlow; Bachman, 1990, Fundamental considerations in language testing, Oxford University Press, Oxford; Bachman & Palmer, 1996, Language testing in practice: Designing and developing useful language tests, Oxford University Press, Oxford; Celce‐Murcia, 2008, Intercultural language use and language learning, Springer, The Netherlands, 41–58; Celce‐Murcia et al. 1995, Issues in Applied Linguistics, 6: 5–35), and there has been rigorous research investigating the pragmatic competence of second/foreign language (L2) learners. This paper aims to provide an overview of research conducted in the area of interlanguage pragmatics with a focus on its pedagogical component,instructional pragmatics. The primary emphasis of this paper will be placed on the introduction of current resources in instructional pragmatics and recent efforts that empirically inform pragmatic‐focused instruction and classroom‐based assessment. The paper concludes with the discussion of the issues associated with future pragmatics‐focused instruction and curriculum development, along with a suggested direction for future research and teacher education in support of instructional pragmatics.
Broca’s Area and Language Processing: Evidence for the Cognitive Control Connection
Authors: Novick Jared M. , Trueswell John C. , Thompson‐Schill Sharon L.
Published: October 2010

A long‐standing pursuit in cognitive neuropsychology has been to understand the role of Broca’s area in language processing. Although a prevailing view has been to equate this region with grammatical abilities in both production and comprehension, a host of recent evidence from brain imaging and patient research has revealed a rather general role for this patch of cortex in complex cognition, even when grammatical performance is untapped—namely, that it regulates mental activity when there is need to resolve among competing representations. In this light, a recent proposal hypothesizes that this broad ‘cognitive control’ function of Broca’s area similarly serves language processing: Broca’s area is responsible for biasing production and comprehension processes when there are strong demands to resolve competition among incompatible characterizations of linguistic stimuli. Some questions that have been asked within this framework are as follows: Does Broca’s area help speakers produce an appropriate word when many alternatives are equally plausible? Does it permit readers and listeners to successfully understand words and sentences, even when the input is ripe for misinterpretation? In the current article, we review new empirical evidence from various fields that supports such an account. A central piece to this discussion is how careful scrutiny of language performance, under varying degrees of cognitive control demands, may shed light on how to suitably describe the idiosyncratic language traits of patients with focal Broca’s area damage, who are decidedly not agrammatic.