bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of Benthic Barriers as a Control Measure for Eurasian Watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum)
Authors: Laitala Karen L. , Prather Timothy S. , Thill Donn , Kennedy Brian , Caudill Chris
Published: July 2012

The use of benthic barriers alone or in combination with other control methods could initiate the eradication of pioneer populations of Eurasian watermilfoil and facilitate maintenance of acceptable population levels in water bodies where the weed is widely established. We evaluated the effects of duration of geotextile fabric panel placement on small Eurasian watermilfoil population control and nontarget plant abundance. In 2006, benthic barriers were placed over Eurasian watermilfoil infestations and removed at intervals of 4, 8, 10, and 12 wk. The 4-wk duration reduced Eurasian watermilfoil biomass 75%, and all other duration treatments reduced Eurasian watermilfoil biomass 100%. The 4-wk treatment had no effect on native plant biomass, whereas other treatments reduced native plant biomass by 79 to 93%. At the conclusion of the 12-wk study, Eurasian watermilfoil biomass had increased in the 4-wk treatment but did not reestablish within treatment plots of longer duration. Native plant biomass had increased to 21% of the untreated control in the 8-wk barrier treatment. Results suggest the 8-wk duration is sufficient for removal of Eurasian watermilfoil while allowing regrowth of native aquatic plants. A walk-in growth chamber experiment was established to evaluate the effect of sediment accumulation on the benthic barrier. Eurasian watermilfoil fragments grown on sediment depths of 0 to 3 cm (0 to 1.2 in) did not differ for shoot or root biomass. At sediment depths of 4 and 5 cm, Eurasian watermilfoil root and shoot biomass increased when compared with the control, suggesting benthic barrier maintenance should include sediment removal when sediment reaches a depth of 4 cm.
Progress toward Environmental Weed Eradication in New Zealand
Authors: Howell Clayson J.
Published: July 2012

Data on 111 environmental weed eradication programs carried out by the New Zealand Department of Conservation (DOC) have been collected and summarized. A total of 21 programs were discontinued, and 90 are ongoing. Within the ongoing programs, four have been successful in that no plants remain at any known infestations. All four of the successful eradications had a total area across all infestations of less than 1 ha (2.5 ac); however, many similar-sized programs were not successful. Correctly assessing the extent of infestations appears to be a major problem for discontinued programs. Some of the ongoing programs are progressing toward eradication, but this is taking much longer than initially anticipated. The strongest determinant of progress toward eradication was found to be the identity of the DOC administrative area, for reasons that are only speculative. The number and area of initial infestations had no effect on progress toward eradication. However, the rate at which new infestations were located was negatively correlated with progress. Across many programs, progress was restricted by inconsistent infestation visitation. After running for a decade, DOC's weed eradication strategy has yet to provide significant dividends. Environmental weed eradication is clearly more difficult than has previously been acknowledged in New Zealand.
Small Mammals in Saltcedar (Tamarix ramosissima)–Invaded and Native Riparian Habitats of the Western Great Basin
Authors: Longland William S.
Published: July 2012

Invasive saltcedar species have replaced native riparian trees on numerous river systems throughout the western United States, raising concerns about how this habitat conversion may affect wildlife. For periods ranging from 2 to 11 yr, I used live-trapping to monitor small mammal populations in paired saltcedar and native riparian woodlands at four sites in western Nevada and eastern California. Heteromyid rodents, such as Merriam's and Ord's kangaroo rats, were more likely to occur in saltcedar habitats, but other rodent species, particularly the montane vole and western harvest mouse, occurred more often in native habitats, and this balanced species richness in habitat comparisons. The most common species at all sites, the deer mouse, did not show any consistent differences in abundance or in mean body mass between the two habitat types. However, the ratio of captured male to female deer mice was higher in saltcedar than native habitats at two sites. Deer mice as well as Ord's kangaroo rats also had higher rates of being recaptured following initial capture in native habitats, which may have been due to fewer transient individuals occurring in these habitats. By contrast, Merriam's kangaroo rats may have been more transient in native habitats because they were more likely to be recaptured in saltcedar. Individuals of two species, pinyon mouse and white-tailed antelope ground squirrel, had greater mean body mass in native habitats than they did in saltcedar, implying that they may have maintained superior condition in native habitats.
A Reinventory of Invasive Weed Species in Dinosaur National Monument to Determine Management Effectiveness
Authors: Ransom Corey V. , Christensen Stephanie D. , Edvarchuk Kimberly A. , Naumann Tamara
Published: July 2012

Invasive weed management in wildland areas is often challenging due to the need to protect and preserve the integrity of natural ecosystems. Russian knapweed is an aggressive, deep-rooted, creeping perennial forb that was first identified as a problematic species in Dinosaur National Monument in 1977. From 2002 to 2005, extensive nonnative plant inventories were conducted in portions of the monument. Results were used to develop and implement an aggressive weed management program beginning in 2005. Emphasis was placed on reducing Russian knapweed infestations around Josie's Ranch in the Cub Creek Watershed. Several other species were targeted as well. In 2010, a reinventory was conducted in selected areas to evaluate how implemented management strategies affected the overall distribution and abundance of targeted species on the landscape. Comparisons between inventories indicate that management strategies were successful in reducing the total infested area of Russian knapweed by 79%. Treatments used for other targeted species also appear to have been effective in reducing their overall distribution and abundance on the landscape. In addition, the reinventory identified several new species with the potential to become problematic in the area. Although this case study documents the substantial progress that has been made at Dinosaur National Monument toward obtaining specific weed management objectives, it more importantly illustrates the process and benefits of an adaptive approach in sustaining long-term invasive plant species management efforts.
Lumbricus terrestris Prefers to Consume Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata) Seeds
Authors: Quackenbush Patricia M. , Butler RaeLynn A. , Emery Nancy C. , Jenkins Michael A. , Kladivko Eileen J. , Gibson Kevin D
Published: July 2012

Temperate and boreal forests in Canada and the northeastern United States have been invaded by several exotic species, including European earthworms (family Lumbricidae) and garlic mustard. Earthworms and garlic mustard co-occur and are both known to adversely impact some native plant species. However, relatively little is known about potential interactions between these two invaders. In a series of growth chamber experiments, we determined the palatability of garlic mustard and six native herbaceous forest species (shooting star, columbine, wild geranium, sweet cicely, butterfly milkweed, and yellow jewelweed) to the common nightcrawler. We also assessed the ability of the common nightcrawler to bury and digest garlic mustard and wild geranium. When offered seeds from garlic mustard and a native plant species, the earthworms ingested more garlic mustard seeds than seeds from four of the six native species. In a mesocosm experiment, the common nightcrawlers apparently digested 72 and 27% of garlic mustard and wild geranium seeds, respectively, that were placed on the soil surface. No seeds were observed on the soil surface at the end of the experiment but the majority of recovered seeds for both species were found within the top 10 cm (3.94 in). More seeds were recovered in 0- to 10-cm and 31- to 40-cm sections for wild geranium than for garlic mustard. No difference in seed recovery was detected at the other depths. Garlic mustard seed is readily consumed by common nightcrawlers and appears to be preferred over some native plant species suggesting that common nightcrawlers may reduce the size of the garlic mustard seed bank.
Mowing Any Time after Midsummer Can Manage Japanese Stiltgrass
Authors: Shelton Angela L.
Published: July 2012

Japanese stiltgrass is one of the most aggressive, rapidly spreading invasive plants in the eastern United States. Management guidelines state that mowing can help manage Japanese stiltgrass but that mowing is most effective when done late in the season after the plants begin to flower and before they set seed. In this study, I tested the effectiveness of mowing at three different times between mid-June and early September in 2009 and 2010, as well as mowing twice in 1 yr and for two consecutive years. The effectiveness of mowing Japanese stiltgrass was determined by measuring percentage of cover, biomass, seed production, and the number of stems in the summer following mowing. All mowing treatments significantly reduced percentage of cover, biomass, seed production, and the number of Japanese stiltgrass stems the following year. In 2009, all of the mowing treatments significantly reduced biomass, percentage of cover, and seed production. The latest mow, at the end of August, resulted in a slightly greater reduction of cleistogamous seeds. In 2010, the earliest mowing treatment, in mid-June, did not reduce cover and biomass as much as the other mowing treatments. Overall, these results suggest that mowing can be an effective control method for Japanese stiltgrass and that mowing any time after June should be effectively equivalent, although later mowing may provide some marginal advantage.
Assessing Stakeholder Perspectives on Invasive Plants to Inform Risk Analysis
Authors: Kapler Emily J. , Thompson Janette R. , Widrlechner Mark P.
Published: July 2012

Conservation and land management decisions often are based primarily on natural science, but could be more successful if human influences were effectively integrated into decision making. This is especially true for efforts to manage invasive plants, whose arrival is usually the product of deliberate human introduction. Risk-assessment models that predict the probability that a nonnative plant will naturalize or invade are useful tools for managing invasive plants. However, decisions based on such models could affect stakeholders differently. Careful assessment of risk-analysis methodologies should consider the importance of stakeholder participation. We surveyed the perceptions of four stakeholder groups (conservation professionals, master gardeners, professional horticulturists, and woodland landowners) in Iowa about invasive plants, general management approaches, and risk-assessment models. We also examined whether or not a stakeholder's nature relatedness plays a role in shaping his or her responses. Stakeholder perceptions varied less than expected across all four groups. Eighty-seven percent of respondents agreed invasive plants are a problem, and 88.4% agreed that we have a responsibility to manage them to protect natural areas. Support for the use of risk-assessment models also was high, with 78.7% of respondents agreeing that their use has potential to prevent plant invasions. Nature relatedness scores for all groups were correlated with respondent perspectives on invasive plants. Respondents believed biologically significant error rates (errors that might introduce a new invasive plant) should not exceed 5 to 10%. Respondents were more tolerant of horticulturally limiting errors (errors that restrict sale/use of a plant that would not have become invasive), reporting rates of 10 to 20% as acceptable. Researchers developing risk-assessment models might wish to aim for error rates within these bounds. General agreement among these stakeholder groups suggests potential support for future risk-management efforts related to invasive plants.
Age-Dependent Demographic Rates of the Bioenergy CropMiscanthus × giganteusin Illinois
Authors: Matlaga David P. , Schutte Brian J. , Davis Adam S.
Published: July 2012

Some plants being considered as bioenergy crops share traits with invasive species and have histories of spreading outside of their native ranges, highlighting the importance of evaluating the invasive potential before the establishment of large-scale plantings. The Asian grassMiscanthus × giganteusis currently being planted as a bioenergy crop in the north central region of the United States. Our goal was to understand the demographic rates and vegetative spread of this species in unmanaged arable lands in Illinois to compare with those of large-statured invasive grasses (LSIGs). We collected data from 13M. × giganteusplantings in Illinois, ranging in age from 1 to 7 yr, recording tiller number, plant spatial extent, spikelet production, and plant survival over 4 yr. Additionally, to understand recruitment potential, we conducted a greenhouse germination experiment, and, to estimate establishment from rhizome fragments, field trials were performed.Miscanthus × giganteusdemographic rates were age dependent. Spikelet production was high, with 1- and 4-yr plants producing an annual average of more than 10,000 and 180,000 spikelets plant−1, respectively; however, data from our germination trial suggested that none of these spikelets had the potential to yield seedlings. On average, plants expanded vegetatively 0.15 m yr−1. Tiller density within the center of a clone decreased with age, possibly leading to a “dead center” found among some LSIGs. Rhizome establishment increased with weight, ranging from 0 to 42%. Survival was low, 24%, for first-year plants but quickly climbed to an asymptote of 98% survival for 4-yr-old plants. Our results suggest that efforts should be made to eradicate plants that escape biomass production fields within a year of establishment, before the onset of high survival. Future work is needed to determine what types of natural and anthropogenic disturbances can fragment rhizomes, leading to regeneration.
Field Guide to Scientific Conferences: an Ecological View
Authors: Hale Stephen S.
Published: July 2012

It's not all about the science.
Calculating long‐term fire frequency at the stand scale from charcoal data
Authors: Payette Serge , Delwaide Ann , Schaffhauser Alice , Magnan Gabriel
Published: July 2012

Fire frequency is a statistical metric used to evaluate long‐term fire activity at stand and landscape scales. Fire frequency is defined as the number of fires occurring per unit time in a given area. In this study a method to calculate fire frequency at the stand scale is described, based on direct fire evidence of radiocarbon‐dated macrocharcoal fragments (>2 mm diameter) at the soil surface and buried in the mineral soil. A jack pine (Pinus banksiana Lamb.) stand was used as a model site to calculate the long‐term fire frequency. The number of fires recorded at the soil surface is a function of fire activity and residence time of charcoal, the fewer fires occurring in the site the longer the residence time of charcoal. The residence time of charcoal at the surface of the study site totals 1710 calibrated years (calibrated age in years before 2010). Fourteen fire events occurred over the last 1000 years, i.e., an average fire interval of 75 years, a situation facilitating the long‐term maintenance of jack pine. When considering the late Holocene period covered by the dated charcoal in the surface and soil compartments, the average fire interval was 165 years over the last 3565 cal. years. Botanical identification of dated charcoal fragments indicated the arrival of jack pine about 2400 cal. years ago, i.e., the minimum arrival date of the species near its northeasternmost limit in North America. Although longer fire intervals prevailed before the last millennium, jack pine was able to maintain in the site or nearby, given that most fire intervals where shorter than the species maximum lifespan. Self‐perpetuation of jack pine illustrates the effectiveness of recurrence dynamics over the last thousand years. It is concluded that detailed analysis of radiocarbon‐dated macrocharcoal fragments at the surface and in the soil allows the calculation of the long‐term fire frequency and reconstruction of fire history at the stand scale. Given the long residence time of charcoal in fire‐prone sites, there is an opportunity to reconstruct local fire histories when focusing only on macrocharcoal fragments at the soil surface.
The reproductive response of an endemic bunchgrass indicates historical timing of a keystone process
Authors: Fill Jennifer M. , Welch Shane M. , Waldron Jayme L. , Mousseau Timothy A.
Published: July 2012

Restoration of the Pinus palustris (longleaf pine)‐wiregrass ecosystem of the southeastern United States requires information on reference conditions such as the historical fire regime. Aristida beyrichiana (wiregrass), a keystone perennial bunchgrass, was historically widespread throughout the southeast, but its dependence upon growing season fires for sexual reproduction hastened its decline in the face of decades of human fire suppression. The reproductive response of wiregrass is described by patterns of meristem allocation between competing life history strategies (i.e., vegetative growth vs. sexual reproduction). The temporal link between fire and flowering indicates this allocation was optimized to the historical fire regime through selection. In this study, we used the observed allocation of wiregrass reproductive effort to sexual reproduction as the response variable to examine reproductive response to fire season, using plant size as a covariate. Sexual reproduction was positively associated with plant size. Plants burned during early summer (May–June) produced a greater proportion of inflorescences than did those burned in early spring (March–April) or in late summer (August). Using state records of natural (lightning‐ignited) and anthropogenic (human‐ignited) fires from historical (1933–1946) and contemporary (1998–2010) periods we found that the distribution of maximum wiregrass reproductive output most closely reflected the distribution of historical fires with natural ignition sources. Moreover, while the monthly distributions of historical and contemporary fires were different for anthropogenic ignitions, they did not differ for fires with natural ignitions. Our predictions of peak allocation based upon the biology of wiregrass provide strong support for the use of wiregrass as an indicator of the historical fire season (early summer). Efforts to restore the longleaf pine ecosystem should therefore consider the biological response of wiregrass in planning prescribed fires.
Seminal Plasma: An Essential Attribute to Spermatozoa
Authors: Juyena Nasrin S. , Stelletta Calogero
Published: July 2012

Abstract: The biochemical composition of seminal plasma (SP) is very complex and variable among species. Advances in reproductive technologies reveal SP as a nutritive‐protective medium for sperm cells suspended in it, and some SP components are very important for sperm metabolism, as well as sperm function, survival, and transport in the female reproductive tract. Biochemistry of SP is a relatively modern but rapidly expanding field of research, particularly concerning the biological significance of the various biochemical constituents of SP. However, identification of active factors in SP and mechanisms by which they act are not sufficiently understood in different species. Especially in camelids, the origin, composition, and function of the viscous component of SP remain a mystery, and only some biochemical and morphological characteristics of SP have been described. In this review, we focus on the current understanding of physiological and biochemical properties of SP in ruminants and camelids.
Association of Lactate, Intracellular pH, and Intracellular Calcium During Capacitation and Acrosome Reaction: Contribution of Hamster Sperm Dihydrolipoamide Dehydrogenase, the E3 Subunit of Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Complex
Authors: Panneerdoss S. , Siva A. B. , Kameshwari D. B. , Rangaraj N. , Shivaji S.
Published: July 2012

Abstract: The role of dihydrolipoamide dehydrogenase (DLD), the E3 subunit of the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDHc) in hamster sperm capacitation and acrosome reaction has been implicated previously. In this study, attempt has been made to understand DLD/PDHc involvement from the perspective of pyruvate/lactate metabolism. Inhibition of DLD was achieved by the use of a specific inhibitor, 5‐methoxyindole‐2‐carboxylic acid. It was seen that 5‐methoxyindole‐2‐carboxylic acid—treated spermatozoa with inhibited DLD (and PDHc) activity had lactate accumulation, which caused an initial lowering of the intracellular pH and calcium and an eventual block in capacitation and acrosome reaction. Collectively, the data reveal a significant contribution of the metabolic enzymes DLD and PDHc to lactate regulation in hamster spermatozoa during capacitation and acrosome reaction. Additionally, the importance of lactate regulation in the maintenance of sperm intracellular pH and calcium, two important physiologic factors essential for sperm capacitation and acrosome reaction, has also been established.
Sibutramine for the Treatment of Recurrent High‐Flow Priapism
Authors: Binsaleh Saleh
Published: July 2012

Abstract: High‐flow priapism most often occurs following perineal and penile trauma. We report the case of a 29‐year‐old man who presented with recurrent priapism and was initially treated with corporal aspiration and intracavernosal injections on multiple emergency department visits and then condition‐controlled with sibutramine while on treatment for weight loss. His condition relapsed after the medication was withdrawn from the market, necessitating medical intervention.
Recombinant Human FSH Reduces Sperm DNA Fragmentation in Men With Idiopathic Oligoasthenoteratozoospermia
Authors: Colacurci Nicola , Monti Maria Gaia , Fornaro Felice , Izzo Gaia , Izzo Pierluigi , Trotta Carlo , Mele Daniela , De Franciscis Pasquale
Published: July 2012

Abstract: A prospective randomized controlled study was designed to evaluate the effects of recombinant human follicle‐stimulating hormone (rFSH) treatment on sperm DNA fragmentation in men with idiopathic oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (iOAT). One hundred twenty‐nine men with sperm count less than 10 × 106 spermatozoa/mL and forward motility <25% were included; normal serum levels of FSH, luteinizing hormone (LH), and testosterone, and no other causes of infertility were enrolled. The patients were randomized into 2 groups: 65 men were treated on alternate days for 90 days with injections of 150 IU rFSH, and 64 subjects received nonantioxidant vitamin supplements. Main outcome measures were serum levels of FSH, LH, testosterone, and inhibin B and DNA fragmentation index (DFI) at baseline and after 90 days. No significant differences were observed between the 2 groups with regard to sperm parameters and hormone values. The DFI was similar between the 2 groups at the time of the enrollment but reduced significantly (P < .05) after rFSH therapy in study group, whereas no significant variation occurred in the control group. In the subgroup of patients with high basal DFI values (>15%), rFSH treatment significantly increased DFI (P < .01), whereas no significant variation occurred after 90 days of vitamin supplements. We conclude that rFSH administration improves sperm DNA integrity in iOAT men with increased DFI values. The degree of sperm DFI might be useful to identify those iOAT patients in which rFSH treatment can be advantageous.
Addition of Metformin to Sildenafil Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction in Eugonadal Nondiabetic Men With Insulin Resistance. A Prospective, Randomized, Double‐Blind Pilot Study
Authors: Rey‐Valzacchi Gastón J. , Costanzo Pablo R. , Finger Luis A. , Layus Alberto O. , Gueglio Guillermo M. , Litwak León E. , Knoblovits Pablo
Published: July 2012

Abstract: Erection depends largely on the release of nitric oxide (NO) by vascular endothelial cells. Insulin resistance (IR) is a metabolic abnormality that produces endothelial dysfunction characterized by decreased synthesis and release of NO. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the effect of treatment with metformin on the response to sildenafil in patients with erectile dysfunction (ED) and IR enrolled in a prospective, randomized, controlled, double‐blind placebo study. We included 30 male patients with ED, IR, and poor response to sildenafil. Exclusion criteria included pharmacologic, anatomic, or endocrine ED; diabetes; prostatic surgery; or chronic illnesses. Erectile function was rated according to the International Index of Erectile Function 5 (IIEF‐5); IR was measured by homeostasis model assessment (HOMA; IR = HOMA ≥ 3). Patients were randomized to receive metformin (n = 17) or placebo (n = 13). After treatment with metformin, patients with ED showed a significant increase in IIEF‐5 score and a significant decrease in HOMA, both occurring at month 2 (IIEF‐5: 17.0 ± 6.0 vs 14.3 ± 3.9, P = .01; HOMA: 3.9 ± 1.6 vs 5.5 ± 2.4, P = .01) to 4 of treatment (IIEF‐5: 19.8 ± 3.8 vs 14.3 ± 3.9, P = .005; HOMA: 4.5 ± 1.9 vs 5.5 ± 2.4, P = .04), with no changes in these parameters in patients with ED receiving placebo. Patients treated with metformin had more adverse events than those who received placebo: 61.5% compared with 7.7%, P = .03, respectively. Adverse events were mild, mainly gastrointestinal, and did not cause discontinuation of treatment. Treatment with metformin in patients with ED and poor response to sildenafil reduced the IR and improved erectile function.
Transurethral Seminal Vesiculoscopy Using a 6F Vesiculoscope for Ejaculatory Duct Obstruction: Initial Experience
Authors: Wang Haifeng , Ye Huamao , Xu Chuanliang , Liu Zhiyong , Gao Xu , Hou Jianguo , Wang Lei , Piao Shuguang , Sun Yinghao
Published: July 2012

Abstract: Ejaculatory duct obstruction (EDO) is a surgically correctable condition that occurs in some infertile men. The standard therapy is transurethral resection of ejaculatory ducts (TURED). However, TURED has been associated with a high risk of complications, including the impairment of semen parameters and retrograde ejaculation. In our clinical practice, vesiculoscopy has demonstrated potential as a minimally invasive alternative technique for the diagnosis and treatment of EDO. Very few studies have examined transurethral seminal vesiculoscopy (TRU‐SVS) in recent years, and no study has examined 6F vesiculoscopes. Therefore, we performed a retrospective study of TRU‐SVS using a 6F vesiculoscope and its effect on the diagnosis and treatment of EDO. A total of 21 patients who underwent this procedure were included in the study. The mean patient age was 28.8 years (range, 23–36 years). The procedure was completed successfully in all patients within a mean time of 31.5 minutes and a mean hospital stay of 1.17 days. All patients had EDO. Calculi were found in the ejaculatory ducts or in the seminal vesicles of 5 patients. Sperm was detected in 11 patients 1–3 months postsurgery and in another 8 patients 3–12 months postsurgery. No sperm was detected in the remaining 2 patients by 12 months postsurgery. Epididymitis, retrograde ejaculation, urinary incontinence, and rectal injury were not observed. These data indicate that TRU‐SVS using a 6F vesiculoscope affords direct access to the seminal vesicle and offers the advantages of fewer complications and more optimal sperm recovery as well as direct, dynamic video imaging.
Help‐Seeking Interval in Erectile Dysfunction: Analysis of Attitudes, Beliefs, and Factors Affecting Treatment‐Seeking Interval in Turkish Men With Previously Untreated Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: Gülpinar Ömer , Haliloğlu Ahmet H. , Abdulmajed Mohamed Ismat , Bogğa Mehmet Salih , Yaman Önder
Published: July 2012

Abstract: In this study, we report data on attitudes, beliefs, and factors affecting the help‐seeking interval among Turkish men with erectile dysfunction to determine whether they are different from those previously published in the literature. Out of 279 Turkish men complaining of erectile dysfunction attending our clinic between December 2006 and March 2008 without the need for referral, 202 were interviewed from a standardized questionnaire covering demographic details, relationships, help‐seeking intervals, and attitudes and beliefs. Eleven patients interrupted the questionnaire and only 191 individuals who had never sought medical help for their erectile dysfunction completed the study. The mean age of the study population was 50.1 (20–80) years. Overall, 93.7% of participants had engaged in sexual intercourse during the year preceding the interview. The mean help‐seeking interval and the mean estimated time elapsed since last satisfactory sexual intercourse were 24.5 (1–360) and 10.5 (1–180) months, respectively. Patients with low household income and education level had a relatively longer help‐seeking interval than the remaining sample. No statistical correlation was seen between treatment‐seeking interval and patient age, duration of marriage or continued relationship, and presence of premature ejaculation. Main reasons for delayed consultation included embarrassment (n = 63, 33%) and thinking of erectile dysfunction as a natural process of aging (n = 51, 26.7%). To enable earlier diagnosis and management of erectile dysfunction, emphasis should be put into the provision of affordable health care and wide public education about erectile dysfunction as an entity requiring prompt medical consultation.
Semen Quality in Patients With Chlamydia trachomatis Genital Infection Treated Concurrently With Prulifloxacin and a Phytotherapeutic Agent
Authors: Cai Tommaso , Wagenlehner Florian M. E. , Mazzoli Sandra , Meacci Francesca , Mondaini Nicola , Nesi Gabriella , Tiscione Daniele , Malossini Gianni , Bartoletti Riccardo
Published: July 2012

Abstract: Chronic prostatitis (CP) due to Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct) infection has a significant impact on young male fertility, and eradication of Ct infection after antibiotic therapy does not always result in recovery of semen quality. The study aim was to evaluate the effects on fertility parameters of l‐arginine, l‐carnitine, acetyl‐l‐carnitine, and ginseng extracts (FERTIMEV) associated with prulifloxacin in patients affected by CP and oligoasthenoteratozoospermia due to Ct infection. Two hundred and six patients with proven Ct genital infection and oligoasthenoteratozoospermia were enrolled in a prospective, randomized, and controlled study. Prulifloxacin (600 mg) was administered daily for 14 days, and patients were divided into 2 groups: group A: antibiotic therapy alone; and group B: antibiotic therapy and additional therapy with FERTIMEV (1 vial daily for 6 months). Microbiological and semen parameter analyses were performed both at enrollment and after 6 months. National Institutes of Health Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index and International Prostatic Symptom Score questionnaires were applied. Of the 206 patients, 109 were assigned to group A and 97 to group B. At the enrollment time, no differences were reported with regard to clinical, instrumental, and laboratory data. Six months after treatment, statistically significant differences were demonstrated between both groups in terms of sperm concentration (21.3 ± 13.2 millions/mL vs 11.5 ± 13.2 millions/mL) (Cohen's d = 0.61) (P < .001, df = 2, F = 62.10) and percentage of motile sperm (42.4% ± 5.2% vs 29.3% ± 11.0%) (Cohen's d = 1.52) (P< .001, df = 2, F = 91.48). In this study treatment with FERTIMEV together with prulifloxacin improved semen parameters in patients with Ct genital infection and oligoasthenoteratozoospermia compared to treatment with prulifloxacin therapy alone.
Subcutaneous Implantable Testosterone Pellets Overcome Noncompliance in Adolescents With Klinefelter Syndrome
Authors: Moskovic Daniel J. , Freundlich Robert E. , Yazdani Parvin , Lipshultz Larry I. , Khera Mohit
Published: July 2012

Abstract:For adolescents with hypogonadism, failure to comply with a testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) regimen can be a barrier to obtaining adequate and consistent serum testosterone (T) levels. We evaluated 4 young men with hypogonadism secondary to Klinefelter syndrome to determine if implantable pellets represented a viable treatment option for such patients. Four patients (aged 14–20 years) had previously received TRT but were not compliant. Patients initially received 4 to 10 subcutaneous T pellets with subsequent doses implanted at 3‐ to 4‐month intervals. In all 4 patients, total and free T levels were improved at follow‐up, although fluctuations between levels were inconsistent. All patients reported improvement in their energy and concentration, and parents noted improved stability of mood. The mean baseline total T level of 108.3 ng/dL increased in all patients at the time of second pellet implantation. Average total T levels were 325 to 587 ng/dL over the course of therapy. There was significant variability of serum T levels while patients were on therapy. All patients eventually received an increased number of pellets at some point in their care. Subcutaneous implantation of T pellets is a viable option for TRT in young men with Klinefelter syndrome in whom compliance is an issue. However, the requirement for repeat implantation every 3 months, increased cost of therapy and monitoring, dramatic shifts in serum total and free T concentrations, and seemingly unpredictable response requires close monitoring and careful follow up and suggests this modality of therapy may not be appropriate for a substantial number of hypogonadal patients, but this strategy warrants consideration in noncompliant patients.
Effects of Castration and Hormone Replacement in the Urinary Bladder of Rats: Structural, Ultrastructural, and Biochemical Analysis
Authors: Gallo Carla B. M. , Miranda Alexandre F. , Felix‐Patricio Bruno , Ramos Cristiane F. , Cardoso Luiz E. M. , Costa Waldemar S. , Sampaio Francisco J. B.
Published: July 2012

Abstract: We evaluated, by qualitative and quantitative methods, the structural alterations in the bladder wall of rats submitted to surgical castration, as well as the role of hormone replacement in reversing the possible structural alterations. Twenty‐four 12‐week‐old male Sprague‐Dawley rats were used. The animals were divided into 3 groups comprising 8 animals each and treated as follows. Members of group CONTR (control) underwent a sham operation only and were sacrificed after 2 months. Members of group ORCH (orchiectomy) underwent bilateral orchiectomy and were sacrificed after 2 months. Members of group ORCH+TEST (testosterone) underwent orchiectomy, received testosterone replacement after 1 month, and were sacrificed 1 month later. We performed a qualitative and quantitative analysis of collagen by light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, biochemistry, and a histomorphometric analysis of smooth muscle and elastic fibers in the 3 groups. The results showed a significant decrease in absolute values of elastic fibers in the castrated group. The histomorphometric analysis of epithelial height did not show differences among the groups. There was no statistical difference in quantitative analysis of collagen, either by histomorphometry or by biochemistry. Also, there was no difference in the smooth muscle cells. However, the qualitative analysis revealed differences in collagen (castrated group) when compared with controls and with rats submitted to hormone replacement. Hormone replacement with testosterone was able to revert the alterations observed. The findings suggest that hormone replacement, even when instituted at a late stage, is effective in reversing the bladder wall alterations produced by secondary hypogonadism.
A Novel Testosterone 2% Gel for the Treatment of Hypogonadal Males
Authors: Dobs Adrian S. , McGettigan John , Norwood Paul , Howell Julian , Waldie Elizabeth , Chen Yusong
Published: July 2012

Abstract: Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can improve the symptoms, signs, and well being of hypogonadal men by restoring serum testosterone concentrations to physiologic levels. This multicenter, open‐label noncomparative trial of men with hypogonadism evaluated the pharmacokinetic profile and safety of a novel testosterone 2% gel (Fortesta™ Gel), administered once daily to the front and inner thighs at starting doses of 40 mg/d. The metered‐dose delivery system allowed dose adjustments in 10‐mg increments between 10 and 70 mg/d. Of the 149 patients enrolled, 138 patients (92.6%) completed the study and 129 patients (86.6%) were included in the efficacy analysis. On day 90, mean testosterone concentration (Cavg [0–24 hours] ± SD) was 438.6 ± 162.5 ng/dL. Overall, 100 (77.5%) patients achieved serum total testosterone concentrations within the normal physiologic range (≥300 and ≤1140 ng/dL). On day 90, mean testosterone Cmax (±SD) was 827.6 ± 356.5 ng/dL. On day 90, a total of 122 patients (94.6%) had Cmax levels of 1500 ng/dL or less and 2 patients (1.6%) had values between 1800 and 2500 ng/dL. Similar results for Cavg (0–24 hours) and Cmax were observed on day 35. All enrolled patients were included in the safety analysis. Testosterone 2% gel was generally well tolerated, with the most common adverse events (AE) being mild and moderate skin reactions. There were no serious AEs related to testosterone 2% gel. Once‐daily testosterone 2% gel restored levels of testosterone in more than 75% of patients, with low risk of supraphysiologic testosterone levels. Patients may find this a suitable option for TRT because of its application site and low volume.
Null Mutation of the Transcription Factor Inhibitor of DNA Binding 3 (Id3) in Male Mice Adversely Impacts on Fertility and Reproductive Outcome
Authors: Carroll Michelle , Robaire Bernard
Published: July 2012

Abstract: Inhibitor of DNA binding 3 (ID3) protein binds to and inhibits the function of basic helix‐loop‐helix transcription factors. The expression of ID3 protein in postproliferative Sertoli cells in the testis, as well as its unique, highly region‐specific expression profile along the adult epididymis, implies novel functional roles for this regulator of transcription. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of Id3 deficiency on male fertility and progeny outcome. We observed that fertility status of Id3−/– males is adversely affected. Males having this null mutation did not sire any litters when crossed with wild‐type C57Bl/6 females; although pregnancies were induced in these females, these never resulted in the birth of live pups. Additionally, abnormal reproductive outcomes and developmental phenotypes were observed in gestational day 18 fetuses resulting from crosses with an Id3‐deficient sire and wild‐type CD‐1 females; these were characterized by an elevated rate of fetal death, reduced body weights of live fetuses, a higher rate of external malformations, and aberrant skeletal development. Importantly, we observed that mutation of this gene differentially affects the phenotype of resulting offspring, depending on the genotype of the parent, not necessarily the genotype of the fetus itself. These results provide novel insight into the role of Id3, suggesting that Id3 might coordinate gene expression programs in the male reproductive system associated with the generation of healthy offspring.
Serum Osteoprotegerin and Sex Steroid Levels in Patients With Prostate Cancer
Authors: Varsavsky Mariela , Reyes‐Garcia Rebeca , Perez Maria Dolores Avilés , Ramírez Amanda Rocio Gonzalez , Mijan Jose Luis , Muñoz‐Torres Manuel
Published: July 2012

Abstract: The relationship between sex steroids and osteoprotegerin (OPG) in patients with prostate cancer is not well established. Our aim was to evaluate serum OPG levels in patients with prostate cancer and its relationship with sex steroids, bone mineral density, bone turnover markers, and fractures. We performed a cross‐sectional study including 91 patients with prostate cancer. We determined: bone mineral density by dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry, bone turnover markers, serum levels of sex steroids and osteoprotegerin, and prevalent radiographic vertebral fractures. Serum OPG levels were higher in patients with vertebral fractures (8.02 ± 2.0 vs 4.91 ± 0.28 pmol/L; P < .05). OPG level and the duration of hormonal therapy were related (r = 0.299, P = .004), but this association did not persist after adjustment for age. In patients without androgen deprivation therapy, serum OPG levels were correlated with the levels of total testosterone (r = 0.508, P = .001) and bioavailable testosterone (r = 0.311, P = .037). In patients receiving androgen deprivation therapy, serum OPG levels were correlated with levels of total estradiol (r = 0.199, P = .18), bioavailable estradiol (r = 0.37, P = .009), and free estradiol (r = 0.349, P = .016). In conclusion, in patients with prostate cancer treated with androgen deprivation therapy, serum OPG levels were correlated with the levels of total estradiol, bioavailable estradiol, and free estradiol. Our hypothesis is that in patients with androgen deprivation therapy, the higher relative estrogen levels could stimulate OPG production in response to the higher resorption state. Future prospective studies are needed to clarify the role of OPG in androgen deprivation therapy—mediated bone loss.
Role of Hydrogen Sulfide in the Physiology of Penile Erection
Authors: Qiu Xuefeng , Villalta Jackie , Lin Guiting , Lue Tom F.
Published: July 2012

Abstract: Hydrogen sulfide (H2S), which is a well‐known toxic gas, has recently been recognized as a biological messenger that plays an important role in physiological and pathophysiological conditions. Relatively high levels of H2S have been discovered in mammalian tissues. It is mainly synthesized by 2 enzymes, including cystathionine β‐synthase and cystathionine γ‐lysase, which utilize l‐cysteine as substrate to produce H2S. H2S has been demonstrated to exhibit potent vasodilator activity both in vitro and in vivo by relaxing vascular smooth muscle. Recently, H2S has been discovered in penile tissue with smooth muscle relaxant effects. Furthermore, other effects of H2S could play a role in the physiology of erection. Understanding H2S in the physiology of erection might provide alternative erectile dysfunction strategies for those patients with poor or no response to type 5 phosphodiesterase inhibitors. This review intends to present the H2S pathway in penile tissue and the potential role of H2S in the physiology of erections.
The Origin of Lymphatic Capillaries in Murine Testes
Authors: Hirai Shuichi , Naito Munekazu , Terayama Hayato , Qu Ning , Kuerban Maimaiti , Musha Muhetaerjiang , Ikeda Ayumi , Miura Masahiro , Itoh Masahiro
Published: July 2012

Abstract: It is known that the seminiferous tubules are bathed in a sea of lymph in mice, which are commonly used in reproductive and immunological studies. Although testicular lymphatic vessels arising from the tunica albuginea can be macroscopically observed in mice, the exact distribution of the lymphatic capillaries remains unclear. In the present study, we investigated the distribution of lymphatic capillaries in normal testes by immunohistochemical staining with monoclonal antibodies against lymph vessel endothelium HA‐receptor 1 (LYVE‐1) and a platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule (CD31). Moreover, normal lymphocytes were locally injected into the testes of recipient mice, and their migration was investigated with the use of LYVE‐1 and CD31. The results showed that lymphatic capillaries were in and just beneath the tunica albuginea but not in the interstitium between the seminiferous tubules. It was also noted that these were abundant in the thickened tunica albuginea adjacent to the epididymis, but they were scarce in the thin tunica albuginea opposite the epididymis. When normal lymphocytes were locally injected into testes, the injected lymphocytes migrated between the seminiferous tubules and then drained into the lymphatic vessels in the tunica albuginea. These results suggest that tissue fluid might drain from lymphatic capillaries that arise just beneath the tunica albuginea.
A Possible Role for Perforin and Granzyme B in Resveratrol‐Enhanced Radiosensitivity of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Fang Yujiang , Herrick Elizabeth J. , Nicholl Michael B.
Published: July 2012

Abstract: Perforin and granzyme B are expressed primarily by activated lymphocytes (cytotoxic T cells, natural killer cells, and natural killer T cells) and function together to induce apoptosis of target cells. Typically, these proteins are not expressed in tumor cells. In the present study, we established the constitutive expression of perforin and granzyme B by the PC‐3 and DU145 prostate cancer (PCA) cell lines with reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry, Western blot, or a combination of techniques. The combination of radiation and resveratrol (XRT/RSV) additively/synergistically decreased survival of PCA because, at least in part, of increased apoptosis. We further demonstrated that treatment with RSV up‐regulated the expression of both perforin and granzyme B, whereas treatment with XRT up‐regulated the expression of granzyme B, but not that of perforin. Combined XRT/RSV treatment of PCA cells further increased the expression of both perforin and granzyme B compared with RSV or XRT alone. Thus, increased radiosensitivity of prostate cancer cells induced by RSV correlated with up‐regulation of perforin and granzyme B, demonstrating a possible mechanism for tumor apoptosis. These findings might be helpful in devising new strategies for treating PCA.
Statins and Erectile Dysfunction: A Critical Summary of Current Evidence
Authors: La Vignera Sandro , Condorelli Rosita A. , Vicari Enzo , Calogero Aldo E.
Published: July 2012

Abstract: Recently, it was reported that the administration of statins (lipid‐lowering drugs) is associated with reduced levels of testosterone, and this evidence has opened a debate on the consequences these widely used drugs might have on the quality of erection. This is a very important clinical problem because patients with dyslipidemia are at increased risk of developing erectile dysfunction (ED); hence, statins exert a protective effect. At the same time, the administration of these drugs reduce endothelial dysfunction, a key etiopathogenetic factor in the onset of ED. Moreover, statins are universally considered a key element of secondary prevention for vascular events; therefore, several points are opened. In this critical summary, we attempt to evaluate the effects of statins on ED and to understand the mechanisms through which statins improve the quality of erection and the possible synergism with V phosphodiesterase inhibitors, drugs largely used for the treatment of ED.
A study of the stretching vibrational spectroscopy of C120O and C120O2 by u(2) lie algebra
Authors: Sen Rupam , Kalyan Ashim , Bhattacharjee Ramendu
Published: July 2012

The vibrational energy levels of endohedral fullerene dimers C120O and C120O2
are calculated considering the local Hamiltonian of Morse potential using the
algebra. Here each bond of the molecules is replaced by a corresponding Lie
algebra and finally the Hamiltonian is constructed considering the
interacting Casimir and Majorana operators. The fundamental stretching modes
of vibration of both the dimmers C120O and C120O2 are then calculated using
this Hamiltonian to compare the results of functional-based tight-binding
(DF-TB) calculations.