bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Densification and Mechanical Behavior of HfC and HfB2Fabricated by Spark Plasma Sintering
Authors: Sciti Diletta , Guicciardi Stefano , Nygren Mats
Published: May 2008

Hafnium diboride (HfB2)‐ and hafnium carbide (HfC)‐based materials containing MoSi2as sintering aid in the volumetric range 1%–9% were densified by spark plasma sintering at temperatures between 1750° and 1950°C. Fully dense samples were obtained with an initial MoSi2content of 3 and 9 vol% at 1750°–1800°C. When the doping level was reduced, it was necessary to raise the sintering temperature in order to obtain samples with densities higher than 97%. Undoped powders had to be sintered at 2100°–2200°C. For doped materials, fine microstructures were obtained when the thermal treatment was lower than 1850°C. Silicon carbide formation was observed in both carbide‐ and boride‐based materials. Nanoindentation hardness values were in the range of 25–28 GPa and were independent of the starting composition. The nanoindentation Young's modulus and the fracture toughness of the HfB2‐based materials were higher than those of the HfC‐based materials. The flexural strength of the HfB2‐based material with 9 vol% of MoSi2was higher at 1500°C than at room temperature.
Phase‐Field Method of Phase Transitions/Domain Structures in Ferroelectric Thin Films: A Review
Authors: Chen Long‐Qing
Published: May 2008

This article briefly reviews recent applications of phase‐field method to ferroelectric phase transitions and domain structures in thin films. It starts with a brief introduction to the thermodynamics of coupled electromechanical systems and the Landau description of ferroelectric transitions in homogeneous ferroelectric single crystals. The thermodynamic potentials of a homogeneous crystal under different mechanical boundary conditions are presented, including the thin‐film boundary conditions. The phase‐field approach to inhomogeneous systems containing domain structures is then outlined. It describes a domain structure using the spatial distribution of spontaneous polarization. The evolution of a domain structure towards equilibrium is driven by the reduction in the total‐free energy of an inhomogeneous domain structure including the chemical driving force, domain wall energy, electrostatic energy as well as elastic energy. A number of examples are discussed, including phase transitions and domain stability in ferroelectric thin films and superlattices. It is demonstrated that using a set of independently measured thermodynamic parameters for the corresponding bulk single crystals, the phase‐field approach is able to quantitatively predict not only the strain effect on phase transition temperatures but also the correct ferroelectric domain structures for a given strain and temperature.
Optical and Photocatalytic Properties of Spinel ZnCr2O4 Nanoparticles Synthesized by a Hydrothermal Route
Authors: Peng Cheng , Gao Lian
Published: May 2008

In this paper, a simple hydrothermal route has been developed to synthesize ZnCr2O4 nanoparticles. Experimental results show that the as‐prepared ZnCr2O4 nanoparticles have an average particle size of <5 nm. The ZnCr2O4 nanoparticles have a direct band gap about 3.46 eV and exhibit blue emission in the range of 300–430 nm, centered at 358 nm when excited at 220 nm. Furthermore, the nanoparticles show apparent photocatalytic activities for the degradation of methylene blue under UV light irradiation.
High‐Temperature Chemistry and Oxidation of ZrB2 Ceramics Containing SiC, Si3N4, Ta5Si3, and TaSi2
Authors: Talmy Inna G. , Zaykoski James A. , Opeka Mark M.
Published: May 2008

The effect of Si3N4, Ta5Si3, and TaSi2 additions on the oxidation behavior of ZrB2 was characterized at 1200°–1500°C and compared with both ZrB2 and ZrB2/SiC. Significantly improved oxidation resistance of all Si‐containing compositions relative to ZrB2 was a result of the formation of a protective layer of borosilicate glass during exposure to the oxidizing environment. Oxidation resistance of the Si3N4‐modified ceramics increased with increasing Si3N4 content and was further improved by the addition of Cr and Ta diborides. Chromium and tantalum oxides induced phase separation in the borosilicate glass, which lead to an increase in liquidus temperature and viscosity and to a decrease in oxygen diffusivity and of boria evaporation from the glass. All tantalum silicide‐containing compositions demonstrated phase separation in the borosilicate glass and higher oxidation resistance than pure ZrB2, with the effect increasing with temperature. The most oxidation‐resistant ceramics contained 15 vol% Ta5Si3, 30 vol% TaSi2, 35 vol% Si3N4, or 20 vol% Si3N4 with 10 mol% CrB2. These materials exceeded the oxidation resistance of the ZrB2/SiC ceramics below 1300°–1400°C. However, the ZrB2/SiC ceramics showed slightly superior oxidation resistance at 1500°C.
Recent Progress in Materials Issues for Piezoelectric MEMS
Authors: Muralt Paul
Published: May 2008

Piezoelectric materials play a crucial role in a large number of devices and applications modern society would not like to miss. Mobile phones and ultrasonic imaging are just the most prominent ones. Since two decades, miniaturization of mechanical devices in silicon technology is a major research direction in engineering known under name of MEMS, which stands for micro‐electro‐mechanical systems. Piezoelectricity fits very well into this concept and was expected right from the beginning to play its role in MEMS. The breakthrough was made with RF filters in mobile phones working on the principle of standing thickness waves in AlN films. What counts here is acoustic quality and stability. The force champion among piezoelectric thin film materials, Pb(Zr,Ti)O3 gave more problems in processing, and requires more patience to meet requirements and needs for a mass applications. It seems, however, that the breakthrough is imminent. This article attempts to give an overview of the field, highlighting recent achievements, introduce operation principles, and describe some applications.
Regarding the algorithm for the diagnosis of early mycosis fungoides proposed by the International Society for Cutaneous Lymphomas: suggestions from routine histopathology practice
Authors: Ferrara Gerardo , Di Blasi Arturo , Zalaudek Iris , Argenziano Giuseppe , Cerroni Lorenzo
Published: May 2008

Background:  Routine clinicopathologic practice is expected to refine/validate the scoring system proposed in 2005 by the International Society for Cutaneous Lymphomas (ISCL) for the diagnosing early mycosis fungoides (eMF), classical type.

Methods:  An evaluation of 72 cases of erythematous and scaling dermatoses was employed with a partial implementation of the ISCL algorithm.

Results:  The selected cases fulfilled the clinical criteria proposed by the ISCL; routine histopathology allowed to reach the ISCL minimum score for a diagnosis of eMF in 45 cases. A clonal T‐cell population was found in 4 out of 12 cases tested with the polymerase chain reaction, three of which with an already established clinicopathologic diagnosis of eMF. An aberrant immunophenotype was found in 11 cases, all of which already labeled as eMF on the basis of clinical and histopathologic features. 6 out of 27 patients with inconclusive clinicopathologic data underwent a new skin biopsy, which allowed to reach a diagnosis of eMF in two cases.

Conclusions:  The diagnosis of eMF still rests upon clinical features and conventional histology; a new skin biopsy is recommended for cases with no clear‐cut diagnostic features.
Biallelic deletion 13q14.3 in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia: cytogenetic, FISH and clinical studies
Authors: Chena Christian , Avalos Julio Sánchez , Bezares Raimundo F. , Arrossagaray Guillermo , Turdó Karina , Bistmans Alicia , Slavutsky Irma
Published: May 2008

Background and objective:  Monoallelic deletion of 13q14.3 (13q14x1) is the most common abnormality in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). As a sole alteration, it predicts a favorable outcome. Biallelic 13q14.3 (13q14x2) deletion or concomitant 13q14x1/13q14x2 has been scarcely evaluated in the literature. We present the clinical, cytogenetic and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis of six CLL patients with normal karyotypes and 13q14x2 and their comparison to cases with 13q14x1 as a single abnormality.

Patients and methods:  A total of 103 CLL patients were studied. Cytogenetic and FISH analysis were performed on stimulated peripheral blood lymphocytes. Specific fluorescence DNA probes for CLL were used.

Results:  Six out of 103 (5.8%) patients showed normal karyotypes and 13q14x2. It was observed as a single alteration in one patient and combined with 13q14x1 in five cases. Biallelic clones were larger than monoallelic ones in 3/5 patients (60%). The comparison of clinical and hematological data between 13q14x1 and 13q14x2 groups showed progression of the disease in all 13q14x2 patients respect to 12/32 (37.5%) cases with 13q14x1 (P = 0.008), significant differences in the distribution by Rai stage (P = 0.042) and a tendency of a higher lactate dehydrogenase level in 13q14x2 patients (P = 0.054). Treatment free survival for 13q14x2 group was 28.5 months, shorter than those observed in patients with 13q14x1 alone (49 months).

Conclusions:  Our data would suggest that 13q14x2 could represent a more aggressive FISH anomaly than 13q14x1 alone, probably as a consequence of clonal evolution and/or due to the complete inactivation of this critical region by mean of more complex mechanisms.
FDG PET/CT findings in acute adult mononucleosis mimicking malignant lymphoma
Authors: Lustberg Maryam B. , Aras Omer , Meisenberg Barry R.
Published: May 2008

We report a case of acute Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infection in which the clinical syndrome and pattern of F‐18‐2‐fluoro‐2‐deoxy‐d‐glucose (FDG) uptake mimicked malignant lymphoma. A 53‐yr‐old man presented with 2 wk of high fevers, night sweats, sinus congestion and severe fatigue. The patient was treated for 1 wk with broad‐spectrum antibiotics for acute sinusitis without any improvement. Persistence of fevers and presence of abnormal lymphadenopathy seen on the abdominal computed tomography (CT) were concerning lymphoma with B symptoms. FDG positron emission tomography (PET) showed avid FDG uptake in numerous abdominal/pelvic nodes, liver, spleen and bone marrow. These findings were highly suspicious for lymphoma. Patient underwent a pelvic lymph node biopsy which showed large granular lymphocytes that were predominantly T cells. Bone marrow biopsy showed diffuse infiltration with plasmocytoid cells that were not kappa lambda restricted. Additional diagnostic workup became available showing positive EBV IgM titers and negative IgG levels indicating acute infectious mononucleosis. Lymph node biopsy stained positively with EBV‐encoded RNA. We concluded that patient’s abnormal FDG PET was most likely secondary to acute EBV infection. After 2 months, follow‐up FDG PET/CT showed marked improvement in lymphadenopathy and decreased hypermetabolic activity in the liver and spleen. Other than EBV, there are many other FDG‐avid non‐malignant conditions that may lead to false‐positive PET scans. FDG accumulates in inflamed and infected lesions with increased glucose metabolism. This case underscores the importance of maintaining a broad differential and restricting use of PET scans for staging.
Promising approach for aggressive NK cell leukaemia with allogeneic haematopoietic cell transplantation
Authors: Ito Toshiro , Makishima Hideki , Nakazawa Hideyuki , Kobayashi Hikaru , Shimodaira Shigetaka , Nakazawa Yozo , Kitano Kiyoshi , Matsuda Kazuyuki , Hidaka Eiko , Ishida Fumihiro
Published: May 2008

Objectives:  Aggressive natural killer cell leukaemia (ANKL) is a malignant disorder of mature NK cells with a poor prognosis, for which no effective therapeutic approach has been established. We investigated the role of allogeneic haematopoietic cell transplantion (allo‐HCT) in ANKL.

Patients and methods:  Three patients with ANKL received allo‐HCT and seven did not. Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) viral load (VL) of the whole blood was measured with real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction.

Results:  We transplanted three patients using a myeloablative conditioning regimen with human leucocyte antigen (HLA) two‐loci mismatched cord blood (n = 2), or HLA‐matched sibling bone marrow (n = 1). In one patient, a second transplantation from the haploidentical mother was also performed at relapse. No patients were in complete remission (CR) at the time of conditioning. After allo‐HCT, all three achieved and maintained CR. One died from sepsis and the other relapsed, received the second transplantation and achieved a second CR. EBV VL was quite high in all three at presentation and its significant reduction was observed after allo‐HCT. Although their backgrounds were not different from those without allo‐HCT, patients with allo‐HCT had a better outcome.

Conclusion:  Allo‐HCT might be a promising therapy for ANKL with curative potential.
Rapid iron loading in a pregnant woman with transfusion‐dependent thalassemia after brief cessation of iron chelation therapy
Authors: Farmaki Kallistheni , Gotsis Efstathios , Tzoumari Ioanna , Berdoukas Vasilios
Published: May 2008

In general, in women with transfusion‐dependent thalassemia, during pregnancy, iron chelation therapy is ceased. We report a splenectomized patient, who was an excellent complier with chelation therapy, who before embarking on a pregnancy showed no evidence of iron overload, with normal cardiac, thyroid function and glucose metabolism. Laboratory findings showed ferritin 67 μg/L, myocardial T2* of 34 ms and liver magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) liver iron concentration of 1 mg/g dry weight. She became pregnant by in vitro fertilization in October 2006, delivery occurred in June 2007. She breast fed for 2 months. After 12 months without iron chelation, ferritin was 1583 μg/L. Quantitative MRI showed myocardial T2* of 27 ms, that the liver iron concentration had increased to 11.3 mg/g dry weight, indicative of moderate to heavy iron load. This case demonstrates that iron overload can develop rapidly and that physicians caring for patients with transfusion‐dependent thalassemia should be particularly alert to any discontinuation of chelation therapy over time.
Neonatal isoimmune thrombocytopenia caused by type I CD36 deficiency having novel splicing isoforms of the CD36 gene
Authors: Taketani Takeshi , Ito Kimiko , Mishima Seiji , Kanai Rie , Uchiyama Atsushi , Hirata Yasushi , Kumakura Shunichi , Ishikura Hiroto , Yamaguchi Seiji
Published: May 2008

Neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia (NAIT) occurs because of transplacentally acquired maternal platelet alloantibodies. Most of the alloantibodies are against human platelet antigens, but the alloantibody against CD36 is rare. A full‐term female baby was delivered by a mother who experienced two spontaneous abortions. The baby had thrombocytopenia with cephalhematoma. The platelet count increased by immunoglobulin therapy (400 mg/kg) for 3 d. Platelet antibody was detected in the postpartum maternal serum. The specificity of the antibody directed against platelets was identified as anti‐Naka (CD36). Flow cytometric analysis showed no expression of CD36 in both platelets and monocytes from mother. Mutation analysis revealed two different splicing isoforms of maternal CD36 mRNA. One allele was exon 4 skipping, another was exon 9 skipping, both of which led to a frameshift and produced a truncated CD36 protein. These results indicate that NAIT is caused by maternal CD36 deficiency having CD36 splicing abnormalities.
Ependymal cyst in a cynomolgus macaque (Macaca fascicularis)
Authors: Bergin Ingrid L. , Campbell Brandy , Agnew Dalen W
Published: May 2008

Background  A focal hypointense intracranial lesion was detected by magnetic resonance imaging in the right caudal occipital lobe of the cerebrum in an asymptomatic cynomolgus macaque (Macaca fascicularis).

Results  Following euthanasia, gross evaluation of the lesion revealed a 1 cm diameter, wedge‐shaped intracranial cavitation without apparent communication with the ventricles. Histologically, the lesion was lined by ciliated cuboidal to low columnar epithelium that showed immunopositivity for cytokeratin, S‐100, and GFAP.

Conclusion  Based upon the gross, histologic, and immunohistochemical findings, this lesion was classified as an ependymal cyst. In the human patients, ependymal cysts are benign, non‐infectious, non‐inflammatory lesions of the central nervous system that are believed to originate from aberrant migration of ependymal cells during development. To our knowledge, this is the first report of an ependymal cyst in a non‐rodent veterinary species and the first report of a benign intracranial cyst of any classification in a non‐human primate.
Fatal ulcerative colitis in a western lowland gorilla (gorilla gorilla gorilla)
Authors: Lankester F. , Mätz‐Rensing K. , Kiyang J. , Jensen S.A. , Weiss S. , Leendertz F.H.
Published: May 2008

A captive western lowland gorilla (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) presented with watery diarrhoea that progressed to become profuse and haemorrhagic. Faecal analyses revealed Balantidium (B.) coli trophozoites and salmonella‐like bacteria. Despite treatment the gorilla died on the 5th day after onset of symptoms. Post‐mortem examination revealed a severe erosive‐ulcerative superficial and deep colitis. Histological examination of post‐mortem samples of the colon showed plentiful B. coli invading into the mucosa and submucosa, whilst PCR screening of bacterial DNA could not confirm any bacteria species which could be connected to the clinical picture. As B. coli is usually a non‐pathogenic gut commensal, and as this animal previously showed evidence of non‐symptomatic infection of B. coli, it is possible that the switch in pathogenicity was triggered by an acute bacterial infection. Despite successful treatment of the bacterial infection the secondary deep invasion of B. coli was not reversed, possibly because of the failure of the treatment regimen, and led to the death of the gorilla.
Genetic parameters for gestation length and the relationship with birth weight and carcass traits in Japanese Black cattle
Authors: IBI Takayuki , KAHI Alexander K. , HIROOKA Hiroyuki
Published: May 2008

The objectives of this study were to estimate genetic parameters for gestation length (GL), including estimation of maternal effects, and to investigate the genetic relationships of GL with birth weight and carcass traits in a Japanese Black cattle population. The original data comprised 34 775 records of animals born from October 1999 to August 2003. Two different models were used to analyze the data for GL. The first model (M1) included direct genetic effect of the calf and maternal genetic effect as random effects. The second model (M2) treated GL as a trait of the dam and included direct genetic effects only. M1 was used in bi‐variate analysis. The direct and maternal heritabilities for GL estimated from M1 were 0.53 and 0.14, respectively. This result shows that GL is moderately inherited and can be controlled genetically. The direct × maternal genetic correlation for GL was −0.73. Direct genetic correlations of GL with carcass traits were close to zero. However, genetic correlation of maternal GL with carcass weight was moderate (0.25).
Effects of serotonin injected into the third ventricle on prolactin and growth hormone secretion in Holstein steers
Authors: KASUYA Etsuko , KUSHIBIKI Shiro , YAYOU Ken‐ichi , ITO Shuichi , SAITO Toshiyuki , HODATE Koichi , SUTOH Madoka
Published: May 2008

In order to clarify the role of serotonin (5‐HT) in the regulation of pituitary hormones, the effects of 5‐HT injected into the third ventricle (3V) on prolactin (PRL) and growth hormone (GH) release were investigated in Holstein steers. A chronic cannula was implanted in 3V by stereotaxic surgery under general anesthesia. After sufficient recovery from surgery, 5‐HT (0, 0.1, 1.0, 2.0 mg) was injected into via the cannula and blood samples were collected over 4 h. Plasma PRL and GH concentrations were determined by radioimmunoassay. PRL release was significantly stimulated by the injection of 5‐HT. The increase in PRL was observed at 20 min after the injection at three doses and the highest dose (2.0 mg) was the most effective in stimulating PRL release. The injection of 5‐HT into 3V, at all doses tested, did not alter GH release significantly. Our results suggest that 5‐HT is involved in the regulation of PRL release partly through the hypothalamus in cattle.
Mass gathering medicine: The Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games experience
Authors: Dutch Martin J , Senini Lisa M , Taylor Deborah J
Published: May 2008

Objective:  To investigate the nature and acuity of medical presentations of patrons and staff attending the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games (M2006) venues and festival live sites.

Design and setting:  Retrospective case series chart audit of patients who were managed by St John Ambulance during the M2006.

Participants:  Patients who presented requiring first‐aid review or treatment at any of the 21 designated event venues or 16 live sites during their prescribed operating hours between 15 March 2006 and 26 March 2006.

Main outcome measures:  Provisional diagnosis and ambulance transport to hospital.

Results:  A total of 3514 presentations occurred during the study period, of which 2279 (64.9%, 95% CI, 63.3%–66.4%) occurred at event venues. Headaches, soft tissue injuries, blisters and other wounds accounted for 64.1% (95% CI, 62.5%–65.73%) of presentations. A total of 303 patients were referred for further medical care, including 69 patients (1.96%, 95% CI, 1.54%–2.49%) who required transport to hospital via ambulance. Traumatic injuries accounted for 42.0% (95% CI, 30.5%–54.5%) of patients transported by ambulance to hospital. The patient presentation rate across all venues was 0.857 per 1000 patrons. The transport to hospital rate was 0.0186 per 1000 patrons.

Conclusions:  The majority of first‐aid presentations during the M2006 were of low acuity and treatment resulted in return of patrons to the event, with only a small number requiring ambulance transport to hospital.
Streaming by case complexity: Evaluation of a model for emergency department Fast Track
Authors: Ieraci Susan , Digiusto Erol , Sonntag Paul , Dann Linda , Fox Debra
Published: May 2008

Objectives:  To evaluate a patient flow streaming system within a teaching hospital's ED, using functional principles to separate patients into two streams on the basis of complexity rather than acuity, severity or disposition.

Methods:  The project used conceptual principles, such as patient complexity and ‘lean thinking’ theory, to create a new Fast Track patient stream, which was separately resourced. Data collected before and after implementation of the Fast Track system were analysed to evaluate the system.

Results:  Following implementation of the system, significant improvements were observed in several key ED performance indicators. Mean waiting time was reduced from 55 to 32 min, mean treatment time was reduced from 209 to 191 min, compliance with New South Wales Department of Health waiting‐time benchmarks increased from 59% to 77% and the percentage of patients who did not wait to complete their treatment halved from 6.2% to 3.1%.

Conclusions:  Key features in the success of the system included use of dedicated senior staff for Fast Track patients, and quarantining of clinical resources. The ED aiming to improve their waiting times and throughput should consider using complexity as a key criterion for triaging patients into separate streams. A low‐complexity patient stream in the ED provides an ideal focus for advanced nursing practice.
Effect of a review course on emergency medicine residents' self‐confidence
Authors: Blouin Danielle , Dagnone Luigi Eugene , O'Connor H Michael
Published: May 2008

Objectives:  Several organizations offer review courses designed to guide final‐year (postgraduate year five) residents' study for their certification examination. The effect of these courses on residents' confidence is unknown. Self‐confidence has been positively linked with examination performance. The present study measures the impact of a review course on fifth‐year emergency medicine residents' overall confidence and confidence in their: (i) knowledge and its application; (ii) planned study strategies to master the knowledge/application; and (iii) recognition that mastery of knowledge/application had been achieved.

Methods:  Before/after study. Over the initial 2 years, 46 postgraduate year five residents from all 12 Canadian emergency medicine programmes attended the course. They prospectively completed a pre‐/post‐course questionnaire on the above‐listed aspects of self‐confidence, for each of 22 clinical domains. A 5‐point Likert‐type scale was used for each question. Pre‐/post‐course means were compared using t‐tests for matched pairs.

Results:  Data were complete for 36 participants (78%). The course significantly increased residents' overall self‐confidence (mean difference 0.38, standard error of the mean [SEM] 0.06, P < 0.001), confidence in knowledge/application (mean difference 0.28, SEM 0.06, P < 0.001), in their study strategies to master knowledge/application (mean difference 0.48, SEM 0.08, P < 0.001) and in their recognition of knowledge/application mastery (mean difference 0.45, SEM 0.11, P < 0.001). Domains showing increased self‐confidence did not match domains specifically addressed in the course, suggesting that the course effects extend beyond the selected topics.

Conclusions:  A review course increased emergency medicine residents' self‐assessed confidence in their knowledge/application, in their study strategies and in their recognition of mastery, beyond the course specifics.
Efficacy and Safety of Tadalafil in the Treatment of Latin American Men with Erectile Dysfunction: Results of Integrated Analyses
Authors: Rubio-Aurioles Eusebio , Casabé Adolfo , Torres Luiz O. , Quinzaños Luis , Glina Sidney , Filimon Ioana , Kopernicky Vladimir , Leñero Enrique
Published: May 2008

Introduction

Available information on the efficacy and safety of tadalafil on Latin American men comes from reports where data is mixed with other populations.

Aim

To assess the efficacy and safety of tadalafil in Latin American men with erectile dysfunction (ED).

Methods

Integrated analyses of data from four 12-week, randomized, double-blind, parallel, placebo-controlled trials conducted in Latin America that assessed the efficacy and safety of tadalafil in 406 Latin American men with ED of diverse etiology and severity assigned to placebo (N = 113), 10-mg tadalafil (N = 39), or 20-mg tadalafil (N = 254).

Main Outcome Measures

Efficacy was assessed by International Index of Erectile Function Erectile Function (IIEF-EF) domain, questions 2 to 5 of the Sexual Encounter Profile and the first Global Assessment Question. Adverse events (AEs) reported by all enrolled patients were collected.

Results

Latin American patients treated with 10 or 20 mg of tadalafil had a significant mean improvement of 4.92 and 9.78, respectively, in the IIEF-EF domain score from baseline compared with 2.24 on placebo (P = 0.003 and P < 0.001, respectively, vs. placebo). At both doses, the mean success rate for penetration was 75 and 86%, respectively, compared with 56% on placebo (P ≤ 0.001), the mean success rate for intercourse was 55% and 78%, compared with 36% on placebo (P < 0.001 vs. placebo), and 62% and 91% of patients, respectively, reported improved erections at the end point, vs. 43% on placebo (P = 0.160 and P < 0.001, respectively, vs. placebo). The most frequent AEs were headache, dyspepsia, and back pain.

Conclusion

10 or 20 mg tadalafil was an effective, safe, and well-tolerated therapy for Latin American men with ED of diverse etiology despite of ED severity.
Increased Frequency and Range of Sexual Behavior in a Patient with Parkinson’s Disease After Use of Pramipexole: A Case Report
Authors: Munhoz Renato P. , Fabiani Giorgio , Becker Nilson , Teive Hélio A.G.
Published: May 2008

Introduction

Several recent reports have linked the use of dopamine agonists (DAs) to a variety of compulsive behaviors in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD). These inappropriate behaviors may include pathological gambling, compulsive shopping, and hypersexuality.

Aim

To report the case of a patient with increased range of sexual behavior after use of pramipexole, a DA.

Methods

A 67-year-old man with a 7-year diagnosis of PD treated with levodopa and pramipexole presented with a dramatic change in sexual behavior after an increase in DA dose.

Results

The patient, who historically was a very shy and conservative person, started to present increased frequency of sexual intercourse with his wife, during which he began speaking obscenities with an extreme preference for anal intercourse, preferences never requested before. After pramipexole was withdrawn, complete remission was observed with return to his usual sexual behavior.

Conclusions

Hypersexuality and paraphilias are complications not uncommonly found in patients with PD under dopaminergic treatment. Further studies are needed for the understanding of this complex complication, and particularly the most prevalent relationship between pathological hypersexuality and use of DAs.
Intraoperative Assessment of an Implantable Electrode Array for Cavernous Nerve Stimulation
Authors: Burnett Arthur L. , Teloken Patrick E. , Briganti Alberto , Whitehurst Todd , Montorsi Francesco
Published: May 2008

Introduction

Erectile dysfunction remains a major functional complication of radical prostatectomy in the modern era despite surgical techniques to preserve the penile autonomic nerve supply.

Aim

To develop and evaluate a neurostimulation system for cavernous nerve electrical stimulation for future use as a chronic implantation device that neurotrophically promotes erectile function recovery following radical prostatectomy.

Method

After radical retropubic prostatectomy, the neurovascular bundle was stimulated using a temporarily placed electrode array of an implantable neurostimulation system (20 Hz frequency, 260 µ seconds pulse width, 5 mA–60 mA amplitude up to 10 minutes), and penile circumference increases were measured.

Main Outcome Measure

Increase in penile circumference.

Results

Among 12 men (mean age 60.3 years) enrolled in this study, 6 (50%) demonstrated measurable increases in penile circumference in response to cavernous nerve stimulation. Among these six men, the mean increase was 5.0 mm (range 1.6 mm to 7.0 mm). Temporary surgical placement of the device was done with relative ease, and there was no evidence of injury to the neurovascular bundle.

Conclusion

A chronic implantable nerve stimulation system for cavernous nerve stimulation having possible neuromodulatory effects on the recovery of penile erections after radical prostatectomy is feasible.
USING A JURY SIMULATION AS A CLASSROOM EXERCISE
Authors: Bennett Robert B. , Leibman Jordan H. , Fetter Richard E.
Published: May 2008

The authors' empirical research project considers the effects of differences in actual legal rules on jury decisions and, concurrently, gives business students the opportunity to participate in a realistic jury experience. The project uses actual trial evidence to produce a videotaped simulated trial presentation thereby insuring that the testimony, legal arguments, jury instructions and facts are realistic. To date, approximately 2,000 business students have participated in the simulation, under the supervision of 13 different Academy members at 11 different universities. This article describes the project and its curricular benefits within the context of an introductory course in law.
A JURY DEMONSTRATION
Authors: McEvoy Dr. Sharlene A.
Published: May 2008

In teaching classes in The Legal Environment of Business or Introduction to Law about the role of the jury in the civil or criminal case, instructors may find it helpful to conduct a voir dire demonstration to introduce students to the mecahnics of the jury selection. Instructors may find the following jury demonstration useful in engaging the interest of the class and teaching them about this area of law.
HOW SWEET IT WAS (AND STILL IS?): SCIENCE AND PUBLIC POLICY IN THE REGULATION OF SACCHARIN
Authors: Razook Nim , Ferguson Larry Kyle
Published: May 2008

Use of this product may be hazardous to your health. This product contains saccharin which has been determined to cause cancer in laboratory animals.
Effect of Carbon Precursors on the Microstructure and Bonding State of a Boron–Carbon Compound Grown by LPCVD
Authors: Liu Yongsheng , Cheng Laifei , Zhang Litong , Yang Wenbin , Xu Yongdong
Published: May 2008

Methane (CH4) and propylene (C3H6) were used to fabricate a boron–carbon coating by a low‐pressure chemical vapor deposition (LPCVD) technique. The effects of carbon precursors on the phase, microstructure, and bonding state of the deposits have been investigated. X‐ray diffraction results show that the 2θ value of the deposit from the C3H6 precursor shifts to 25.78° when the coating is deposited at 1223 K, and shifts to 26.1° when deposited at 1273 K, compared with the 2θ value of the pyrocarbon (PyC) peak deposited by LPCVD, which is 25.42°, and no boron–carbon (B–C) compound peak exists. However, the phases of coating deposited from CH4 include B25C, B13C2, elemental carbon, and boron. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) results show that the percent contents of boron atom in the coatings from the CH4 precursor are 61.18% and 67.78% when deposited at 1223 and 1273 K, respectively, much higher than that from the C3H6 precursor, 10.85% and 15.30%, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results show that the coatings deposited from CH4 have a coarse crystal‐like morphology; however, the coatings deposited from the C3H6 precursor are smooth. The formation of PyC from C3H6 is more facile than that from CH4, which leads to differences in the phase, atom content, and microstructure of coatings from CH4 and C3H6 precursors.
Morality: An Evolutionary Account
Authors: Krebs Dennis L.
Published: May 2008

Refinements in Darwin's theory of the origin of a moral sense create a framework equipped to organize and integrate contemporary theory and research on morality. Morality originated in deferential, cooperative, and altruistic “social instincts,” or decision-making strategies, that enabled early humans to maximize their gains from social living and resolve their conflicts of interest in adaptive ways. Moral judgments, moral norms, and conscience originated from strategic interactions among members of groups who experienced confluences and conflicts of interest. Moral argumentation buttressed by moral reasoning is equipped to generate universal and impartial moral standards. Moral beliefs and standards are products of automatic and controlled information-processing and decision-making mechanisms. To understand how people make moral decisions, we must understand how early evolved mechanisms in the old brain and recently evolved mechanisms in the new brain are activated and how they interact. Understanding what a sense of morality is for helps us understand what it is.
The Function of Fiction is the Abstraction and Simulation of Social Experience
Authors: Mar Raymond A. , Oatley Keith
Published: May 2008

Fiction literature has largely been ignored by psychology researchers because its only function seems to be entertainment, with no connection to empirical validity. We argue that literary narratives have a more important purpose. They offer models or simulations of the social world via abstraction, simplification, and compression. Narrative fiction also creates a deep and immersive simulative experience of social interactions for readers. This simulation facilitates the communication and understanding of social information and makes it more compelling, achieving a form of learning through experience. Engaging in the simulative experiences of fiction literature can facilitate the understanding of others who are different from ourselves and can augment our capacity for empathy and social inference.
A Comparison of Models for Interstate Wars and for Individual Violence
Authors: Patterson Gerald R.
Published: May 2008

It is assumed that violence is functional at both individual and societal levels. A model developed for violent individuals is compared with a proposed model for interstate wars. In both domains, the data are consistent with the assumption that violence is functional. At the societal level, the contingencies of training are provided by official staff and require reasonably well-socialized soldiers. At the individual level, reinforcers are provided by victims, and aggressors are usually socially incompetent. In the societal model, decision makers receive rein-forcers for initiating and winning wars. The combat soldiers' behavior is somewhat paradoxical. Soldiers are thought to remain in harm's way out of love for their buddies. The actual reinforcers for their combat behavior are unknown.
Hormonal regulation of renomedullary hyaluronan
Authors: Rügheimer L. , Johnsson C. , Maric C. , Hansell P.
Published: May 2008

Aim:  Hyaluronan (HA) is involved in renomedullary water handling through its water‐binding capacity. This study addressed the effect of hormones involved in regulating fluid‐electrolyte homeostasis on renomedullary HA content in vivo and in vitro.

Methods:  The kidneys from rats treated with l‐NAME, indomethacin, vasopressin (AVP) or methylprednisolone (MP) during euvolaemia or water loading were analysed for HA by RIA, ELISA and histochemical staining. HA was measured in renomedullary interstitial cells treated with AVP, angiotensin II (Ang II) or a combination of AVP and Ang II.

Results:  Baseline renal cortical and medullary HA content was unaffected by 2 h of intravenous treatment with l‐NAME (NOS inhibitor) or indomethacin (cyclo‐oxygenase inhibitor), whereas AVP reduced medullary HA by 33%. During 2 h of acute water loading, diuresis was accompanied by an increase in renomedullary HA (+45%), but cortical HA was unaffected. In both l‐NAME‐ and indomethacin‐treated animals, the water loading‐induced increase in renomedullary HA was absent, indicating involvement of NO and prostaglandins. After 7 days of MP treatment, medullary HA was reduced by 40%, but the water loading‐induced elevation in HA remained. In cultured renomedullary interstitial cells, AVP reduced the HA content in the supernatant by 63%, and simultaneous treatment with Ang II reduced the HA content even further (95%).

Conclusion:  AVP reduces HA content, and NO and prostaglandins are needed for the increase in HA during water loading.
Clinicopathological Outline of Dementia with Lewy Bodies Applying the Revised Criteria: The Hisayama Study
Authors: Fujimi Kouhei , Sasaki Kensuke , Noda Kazuhito , Wakisaka Yoshinobu , Tanizaki Yumihiro , Matsui Yukiko , Sekita Atsuko , Iida Mitsuo , Kiyohara Yutaka , Kanba Shigenobu , Iwaki Toru
Published: May 2008

To explore the validity of the criteria for dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) revised in 2005, we examined community based consecutive autopsy cases. 10.3% of the non‐demented subjects and 31.2% of the demented subjects showed the Lewy body pathology. Applying the revised pathological criteria to the 205 demented subjects, the types of LB pathology of 11 cases (5.4%) were brainstem‐predominant, 24 cases (11.7%) were limbic type and 24 cases (11.7%) were diffuse neocortical type, although there were many subjects not to fit the criteria exactly. The prevalence of Lewy bodies (LBs) was almost same regardless of gender; however, the extent of the LB pathology among females was more severe than that in males. The likelihood of DLB being modified by concomitant Alzheimer's pathology was as follows: 27 cases (13.2%) showed low likelihood, 16 cases (7.8%) showed intermediate likelihood and 16 cases (7.8%) showed high likelihood. Since the numbers of clinical features of DLB were significantly higher in the pathological intermediate and high likelihood DLB groups than in the low likelihood DLB group or no LB group, both the intermediate and high likelihood groups of DLB should be considered as pathological DLB.
Expression of Interleukin‐16 in Sciatic Nerves, Spinal Roots and Spinal Cords of Experimental Autoimmune Neuritis Rats
Authors: Zhang Zhi‐Yuan , Zhang Zhiren , Fauser Uwe , Schluesener Hermann J.
Published: May 2008

Experimental autoimmune neuritis (EAN) is a well‐known animal model of Guillain‐Barré Syndrome. In this study, we studied the spatiotemporal expression of interleukin‐16 (IL‐16) in the nervous system of EAN rats and pharmacological effects of minocycline on IL‐16 expressions in EAN rats. In sciatic nerves and dorsal/ventral roots of EAN rats, IL‐16+ cells, identified as macrophages and T cells, were mainly found to concentrate around blood vessels. However, in spinal cords, IL‐16+ microglial cells were mainly found in lumbar dorsal horns. Massive IL‐16+ cell accumulation in sciatic nerves and spinal roots was temporally correlated with severity of neurological signs of EAN. Furthermore, a strong correlation of IL‐16+ cell accumulation with local demyelination in perivascular areas of sciatic nerves, and significant reduction of IL‐16+ cell numbers in sciatic nerves and spinal cords by minocycline suggested a pathological contribution of IL‐16+ cells in EAN. Taken together, robust IL‐16+ cell accumulation in the nervous system and its temporal correlation with severity of neurological signs in EAN might suggest a pathological role of IL‐16 in EAN, which makes IL‐16 a potential pharmacological target.
Delineation of Early Changes in Cases with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy‐Like Pathology. Astrocytes in Striatum are Primary Targets of Tau Phosphorylation and GFAP Oxidation
Authors: Santpere Gabriel , Ferrer Isidre
Published: May 2008

Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is a complex tauopathy usually confirmed at post‐mortem in advanced stages of the disease. Early PSP‐like changes that may outline the course of the disease are not known. Since PSP is not rarely associated with argyrophilic grain disease (AGD) of varible intensity, the present study was focused on AGD cases with associated PSP‐like changes in an attempt to delineate early PSP‐like pathology in this category of cases. Three were typical clinical and pathological PSP. Another case presented with cognitive impairment, abnormal behavior and two falls in the last three months. One case suffered from mild cognitive impairment, and two had no evidence of neurological abnormality. Neuropathological study revealed, in addition to AGD, increased intensity and extent of lesion in three groups of regions, striatum, pallidus/subthalamus and selected nuclei of the brain stem, correlating with neurological impairment. Biochemical studies disclosed oxidative damage in the striatum and amygdala. Together the present observations suggest (i) early PSP‐like lesions in the striatum, followed by the globus pallidus/subthalamus and selected nuclei of the brain stem; (ii) early involvement of neurons and astrocytes, but late appearance of tufted astrocytres; and (iii) oxidative damage of glial acidic protein in the striatum.
Genotoxicity of Combined Exposure to Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons and UVA—A Mechanistic Study
Authors: Douki Thierry , Ksoury Zakaria , Marie Caroline , Favier Alain , Ravanat Jean‐Luc , Maitre Anne
Published: May 2008

Solar UV radiation and benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) are two carcinogenic agents. When combined, their deleterious properties are synergistic. In order to get insights into the underlying processes, we carried out a mechanistic study within isolated DNA photosensitized to UVA radiation by either BaP, its diol epoxide metabolite (BPDE) or the tetraol arising from the hydrolysis of this last molecule. Measurement of the level of the oxidized base 8‐oxo‐7,8‐dihydroguanine revealed that BaP is a poor sensitizer while BPDE and tetraol are more potent ones. None of these compounds was found to photosensitize formation of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers through triplet energy transfer. On the basis of the distribution of oxidized DNA bases, we could show that photosensitization of DNA by BPDE involves electron abstraction (Type I) while tetraol acts mainly through singlet oxygen production (Type II). Under our experimental conditions, Type I was the major photosensitization process, which shows the lack of involvement of tetraol in the observed photo‐oxidation reaction. Finally, we could show that the adducts, resulting from the alkylation of DNA by BPDE, are very potent sensitizers. Indeed, they are located in the close vicinity of the double helix and thus perfectly placed to induce oxidation reactions.
Diagnosis and Management of Primary Cicatricial Alopecia: Part II
Authors: Wu Wen‐Yu , Otberg Nina , McElwee Kevin John , Shapiro Jerry
Published: May 2008

The second part of this 2‐part article reviews clinical features, histology, management, and treatment of neutrophilic primary cicatricial alopecias (folliculitis decalvans and dissecting folliculitis) and mixed primary cicatricial alopecias (acne keloidalis, acne necrotica, and erosive pustular dermatosis).
Improving Heart Failure Self‐Management Support by Actively Engaging Out‐of‐Home Caregivers: Results of a Feasibility Study
Authors: Piette John D. , Gregor Mary Ann , Share David , Heisler Michele , Bernstein Steven J. , Koelling Todd , Chan Paul
Published: May 2008

The benefits of heart failure (HF) care management have been demonstrated, yet health systems are often unable to meet patients' needs for support between outpatient visits. Informal care provided by family or friends is a low‐cost, and potentially effective, adjunct to care management services. The authors evaluated the feasibility of augmenting HF care management with weekly, automated assessment and behavior change calls to patients, feedback via the Internet to an out‐of‐home informal caregiver or CarePartner (CP), and faxes to the patient's health care team. The program included 52 HF patient‐CP pairs participating for an average of 12 weeks. Patients completed 586 assessments (92% completion rate) and reported problems that might otherwise have gone unidentified. At follow‐up, 75% had made changes in their self‐care as a result of the intervention. The CP program may extend the impact of HF telemonitoring beyond what care management programs can realistically deliver.