bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Male Partners of Women with Provoked Vestibulodynia: Attributions for Pain and Their Implications for Dyadic Adjustment, Sexual Satisfaction, and Psychological Distress
Authors: Jodoin Mélanie , Bergeron Sophie , Khalifé Samir , Dupuis Marie-José , Desrochers Geneviève , Leclerc Bianca
Published: October 2008

Introduction

Provoked vestibulodynia is a female genital pain condition that results in sexual dysfunction and impacts negatively on the couple. Although patients' causal attributions have been linked to worse psychosexual outcomes, no study has documented the male partners' perspective of this distressing problem and its potential influence on their psychosexual adaptation.

Aim

To identify whether male partners' attributions for vestibulodynia are possible predictors of their dyadic adjustment, sexual functioning, sexual satisfaction, and psychological distress, as well as of women's pain and sexual functioning.

Methods

Thirty-eight women with vestibulodynia first completed measures of pain intensity and sexual functioning. Male partners responded to mailed questionnaires assessing their own attributions for genital pain as well as their psychological distress, relationship adjustment, sexual functioning, and sexual satisfaction.

Main Outcome Measures

Women completed the McGill-Melzack Pain Questionnaire (MPQ) and the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). Attributions of male partners were measured using an adapted version of the Attributional Style Questionnaire (ASQ)—Partner Version. Men also filled out the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI), the Dyadic Adjustment Scale (DAS), the Sexual History Form (SHF), and the Global Measure of Sexual Satisfaction (GMSEX).

Results

All four negative attribution dimensions and higher levels of women's pain intensity successfully predicted increased psychological distress in male partners. Higher levels of both internal and global attributions were associated with men's poorer dyadic adjustment, whereas global and stable attributions were related to their lower sexual satisfaction. Attributions failed to significantly predict sexual functioning in male partners and women's pain and sexual functioning.

Conclusion

Evaluation and treatment of sexual pain problems should involve both partners and should explore the role of negative attributions.
Urogynecology and Sexual Function Research. How Are We Doing?
Authors: Lowenstein Lior , Pierce Kristen , Pauls Rachel
Published: October 2008

Introduction

Urinary incontinence (UI) and pelvic organ prolapse (POP) negatively impact health-related quality of life by affecting daily activities, body image, and sexual relationships.

Aim

To evaluate interest in sexual function (SF) research among urogynecologists.

Main Outcome Measures

The rate of abstracts presented at national meetings that dealt with SF over a 5-year period.

Methods

We reviewed all abstracts presented as an oral podium, moderated poster, and nonmoderated posters at meetings of the Society of Gynecologic Surgeons (SGS) and American Urogynecologic Society (AUGS) between 2002 and 2007. Abstracts involving SF outcomes were categorized according to conference year, type of pelvic floor dysfunction, and type of intervention. The Friedman test was used to compare groups with respect to percentages.

Results

During the study period, the number of abstracts related to SF increased significantly at both meetings. In 2002, there were no studies reported SF outcomes at the SGS meeting, and only 3% (four) of studies at AUGS meeting dealt with SF. Subsequently, in 2007, 10% (nine) and 9% (15) of the abstracts presented at the SGS and AUGS meetings, respectively, addressed SF (P < 0.001 and P < 0.003, respectively). The majority of the studies (60–70%) presented at both meetings investigated the relationship between SF and various surgical interventions for POP and stress UI.

Conclusion

Disorders of the female pelvic floor, such as UI and POP, can influence SF and satisfaction. Our study demonstrates that the awareness and interest of urogynecologists in this area have been increasing steadily. However, most pelvic floor research presentations still do not mention SF in their outcome. Since surgery alone cannot treat the majority of women with sexual dysfunction, there is a need for collaborative work among urogynecologists, gynecologists, female urologists, and sexual therapists.
Pelvic Ischemia Is Measurable and Symptomatic in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease: A Novel Application of Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: De Elise J.B. , Hou Ping , Estrera Anthony L. , Sdringola Stefano , Kramer Larry A. , Graves Daniel E. , Westney O Lenaine
Published: October 2008

Introduction

Pelvic ischemia can manifest as vascular-mediated erectile dysfunction (ED) and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), and is associated with cardiac ischemia.

Aims

We aimed to develop a dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) technique to measure pelvic perfusion in benign tissue.

Methods

Nine men with coronary artery disease (CAD) were compared with nine without. Images were acquired at 3T with T1-weighted DCE-MRI for perfusion. Two-compartment pharmacokinetic modeling was employed to fit signal enhancement from prostate, corpus cavernosal, and spongiosal tissues.

Main Outcome Measures

Perfusion parameters and validated pelvic symptom scores were compared.

Results

The mean International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) total score was worse in CAD (41.3 ± 19.7) vs. controls (59.4 ± 14.9, P = 0.04). The IIEF erectile function domain score trended to worse in CAD (13.7 ± 9.7) vs. controls (22.0 ± 9.9, P = 0.09). The mean total International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) trended to worse in CAD patients (13.2) than controls (7.0) (P = 0.10). Magnetic resonance perfusion analysis demonstrated lower mean maximal percent enhancement to P < 0.0001 in the CAD group vs. controls for all the following comparisons: prostate in CAD (22.4 ± 0.4) vs. controls (26.3 ± 0.1); cavernosal tissue in CAD (9.3 ± 0.2) vs. controls (16.6 ± 0.8); and spongiosal tissue in CAD (20.6 ± 1.2) vs. controls (24.0 ± 0.6). Comparison of mean wash-in rates in the unit of 10−3/second was also highly significant (P < 0.0001 for all tissues): prostate in CAD (574.0 ± 18.0) was lower than controls (1,035.0 ± 29.0); slower wash-in rates were seen in CAD cavernosal (58.0 ± 4.0 vs. 139.0 ± 9.0 in controls) and spongiosal tissue (134.0 ± 6.0 vs. 278.0 ± 12.0 in controls).

Conclusion

These initial data demonstrate that pelvic perfusion can be measured in noncancerous tissues, and that perfusion correlates with validated measures of ED and LUTS.
Erectile Dysfunction and Comorbidities in Aging Men: An Urban Cross-Sectional Study in Malaysia
Authors: Khoo Ee Ming , Tan Hui Meng , Low Wah Yun
Published: October 2008

Introduction

Erectile dysfunction (ED), lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), cardiovascular disease (CVD), depression, and androgen deficiency are common conditions affecting aging men over 50 years. However, data were limited in developing countries.

Aims

To investigate the prevalence of ED, LUTS, chronic diseases, depression, androgen deficiency symptoms, and lifestyle of aging men in Malaysia, and to examine their associations with sociodemographic factors.

Main Outcome Measures

ED, LUTS, chronic diseases, depression, positive Androgen Deficiency in the Aging Male (ADAM) questionnaire

Methods

A randomized survey of 351 men using structured questionnaires consisting of self-reported medical conditions, International Index for Erectile Function-5, International Prostate Symptom Score, Geriatric Depression Scale-15, and St Louis University questionnaire for ADAM. Blood samples were taken for glucose, lipid, prostate specific antigen (PSA), and hormones.

Results

Mean age was 58 ± 7 years. Prevalence of ED was 70.1% (mild ED 32.8%, mild to moderate ED 17.7%, moderate ED 5.1%, and severe ED 14.5%). There were 29% of men with moderate and severe LUTS; 11.1% had severe depression; 25.4% scored positive on ADAM questionnaire; 30.2% self-reported hypertension, 21.4% self-reported diabetes mellitus; 10.8% self-reported coronary artery disease; 19.1% were smokers; and 34% consumed alcohol. There were 78.6% of men that are overweight and obese; 28.8% had a fasting blood sugar (FBS) ≥6.1 mmol/L, 70.1% had total cholesterol >5.2 mmol/L, 19.1% had total testosterone ≥11.0 nmoL/L, 14.0% had calculated free testosterone <0.0225 nmoL/dL; 4% had PSA > 4 µg/L; 9.4% had insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) level below age specific range, 5.1% had abnormal sex hormone binding globulin (<15 nmoL/L and >70 nmol/L). ED was found to be significantly associated with LUTS, depression (P < 0.001 respectively). Similarly, LUTS was significantly associated with depression and ADAM questionnaire status (P < 0.001 respectively); and ADAM questionnaire status was also significantly associated with depression (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

ED, LUTS, depression, and androgen deficiency symptoms are common in urban aging men. As these conditions are possibly interrelated, strategies for early disease prevention and detection are warranted when one disease presents.
Determinants of Sexual Satisfaction in a Sample of German Women
Authors: Philippsohn Susanne , Hartmann Uwe
Published: October 2008

Introduction

The literature provides little information about the meaning of sexual satisfaction in women despite debates on new concepts of female sexual experience and on modifications in the classification systems of female sexual dysfunction. Often, not even a differentiation is made between satisfaction with one’s sex life or sexual relationship in general and sexual satisfaction related to a specific sexual activity.

Aim

To differentiate between satisfaction with sex life in general and sexual satisfaction from sexual intercourse, petting, or masturbation. To gain a deeper understanding of the meaning and experience of sexual satisfaction derived from these specific sexual activities.

Methods

A self-administered questionnaire was completed by 102 German women of different age groups (median age group: 31–35) and education levels.

Main Outcome Measures

A multidimensional questionnaire addressing the subjective feelings that constitute sexual satisfaction in women.

Results

The analysis of sexual satisfaction from sexual intercourse yielded two dimensions: (i) feeling close to one’s partner; and (ii) positive bodily and emotional experiences. Regarding satisfaction with one’s sex life in general, 70% of the variance could be explained by sexual satisfaction through sexual intercourse and frequency of sexual intercourse. Sexual satisfaction and orgasm frequency proved to be interdependent but not identical.

Conclusions

As a contribution to a better understanding of the complex nature of female sexual satisfaction, our results indicate that sexual intercourse is a far more important activity and source of satisfaction in female sexual life than petting or masturbation.
Psychophysiological Assessment of Sexual Function in Women After Radiotherapy and Total Mesorectal Excision for Rectal Cancer: A Pilot Study on Four Patients
Authors: Breukink Stephanie O. , Wouda Jan C. , Van Der Werf - Eldering Marieke J. , Van De Wiel Harry B.M. , Bouma Esther M.C. , Pierie Jean Pierre-EN , Wiggers Theo , Meijerink Jeroen W.J.H.J. , Weijmar Schultz Willibrord C.M.
Published: October 2008

Introduction

The potential contribution of psychological and anatomical changes to sexual dysfunction in female patients following short-term preoperative radiotherapy (5 × 5 Gy) and total mesorectal excision (TME) is not clear.

Aim

In this study we assessed female sexual dysfunction in patients who underwent radiotherapy and TME for rectal cancer.

Main Outcome Measures

Genital arousal was assessed using vaginal videoplethysmography.

Methods

Sexual functioning was examined in four patients who had rectal cancer and underwent radiotherapy and TME. All investigations were done at least 15 months after treatment. The results were compared with an age-matched group of 18 healthy women.

Results

The patients and healthy controls showed comparable changes in vaginal vasocongestion during sexual arousal, though three out of four patients showed a lower mean spectral tension (MST) of the vaginal pulse compared with healthy controls. Subjective sexual arousal was equivalent between the two groups.

Conclusions

In this study the changes of genital and subjective sexual arousal after erotic stimulus condition between patients and healthy controls were not different, though lower MST of the vaginal pulse was found in three out of four patients compared with healthy women. Additional work, however, must be performed to clarify the mechanisms of sexual dysfunction following treatment of rectal cancer.
Abscisic Acid‐mediated Epigenetic Processes in Plant Development and Stress Responses
Authors: Chinnusamy Viswanathan , Gong Zhizhong , Zhu Jian‐Kang
Published: October 2008

Abscisic acid (ABA) regulates diverse plant processes, growth and development under non‐stress conditions and plays a pivotal role in abiotic stress tolerance. Although ABA‐regulated genetic processes are well known, recent discoveries reveal that epigenetic processes are an integral part of ABA‐regulated processes. Epigenetic mechanisms, namely, histone modifications and cytosine DNA methylation‐induced modification of genome give rise to epigenomes, which add diversity and complexity to the genome of organisms. Histone monoubiquitination appears to regulate ABA levels in developing seeds through histone H2B monoubiquitination. ABA and H2B ubiquitination dependent chromatin remodeling regulate seed dormancy. Transcription factor networks necessary for seed maturation are repressed by histone deacetylases (HDACs)‐dependent and PICKLE chromatin remodeling complexes (CRCs), whereas ABA induces the expression of these genes directly or through repression of HDACs. Abiotic stress‐induced ABA regulates stomatal response and stress‐responsive gene expression through HDACs and HOS15‐dependent histone deacetylation, as well as through the ATP‐dependent SWITCH/SUCROSE NONFERMENTING CRC. ABA also probably regulates the abiotic stress response through DNA methylation and short interfering RNA pathways. Further studies on ABA‐regulated epigenome will be of immense use to understand the plant development, stress adaptation and stress memory.
How Plants Cope with Cadmium: Staking All on Metabolism and Gene Expression
Authors: DalCorso Giovanni , Farinati Silvia , Maistri Silvia , Furini Antonella
Published: October 2008

Environmental pollution is one of the major problems for human health. Toxic heavy metals are normally present as soil constituents or can also be spread out in the environment by human activity and agricultural techniques. Soil contamination by heavy metals as cadmium, highlights two main aspects: on one side they interfere with the life cycle of plants and therefore reduce crop yields, and on the other hand, once adsorbed and accumulated into the plant tissues, they enter the food chain poisoning animals and humans. Considering this point of view, understanding the mechanism by which plants handle heavy metal exposure, in particular cadmium stress, is a primary goal of plant‐biotechnology research or plant breeders whose aim is to create plants that are able to recover high amounts of heavy metals, which can be used for phytoremediation, or identify crop varieties that do not accumulate toxic metal in grains or fruits. In this review we focus on the main symptoms of cadmium toxicity both on root apparatus and shoots. We elucidate the mechanisms that plants activate to prevent absorption or to detoxify toxic metal ions, such as synthesis of phytochelatins, metallothioneins and enzymes involved in stress response. Finally we consider new plant‐biotechnology applications that can be applied for phytoremediation.
Drought Stress and Preharvest Aflatoxin Contamination in Agricultural Commodity: Genetics, Genomics and Proteomics
Authors: Guo Baozhu , Chen Zhi‐Yuan , Lee R. Dewey , Scully Brian T.
Published: October 2008

Throughout the world, aflatoxin contamination is considered one of the most serious food safety issues concerning health. Chronic problems with preharvest aflatoxin contamination occur in the southern US, and are particularly troublesome in corn, peanut, cottonseed, and tree nuts. Drought stress is a major factor to contribute to preharvest aflatoxin contamination. Recent studies have demonstrated higher concentration of defense or stress‐related proteins in corn kernels of resistant genotypes compared with susceptible genotypes, suggesting that preharvest field condition (drought or not drought) influences gene expression differently in different genotypes resulting in different levels of “end products”: PR(pathogenesis‐related) proteins in the mature kernels. Because of the complexity of Aspergillus‐plant interactions, better understanding of the mechanisms of genetic resistance will be needed using genomics and proteomics for crop improvement. Genetic improvement of crop resistance to drought stress is one component and will provide a good perspective on the efficacy of control strategy. Proteomic comparisons of corn kernel proteins between resistant or susceptible genotypes to Aspergillus flavus infection have identified stress‐related proteins along with antifungal proteins as associated with kernel resistance. Gene expression studies in developing corn kernels are in agreement with the proteomic studies that defense‐related genes could be upregulated or downregulated by abiotic stresses.
Is Chloroplast Movement in Tobacco Plants Influenced Systemically after Local Illumination or Burning Stress?
Authors: Nauš Jan , Rolencová Monika , Hlaváčková Vladimíra
Published: October 2008

Chloroplast movement has been studied in many plants mainly in relation to the local light, mechanical or stress effects. Here we investigated possible systemic responses of chloroplast movement to local light or burning stress in tobacco plants (Nicotiana tabacum cv. Samsun). Chloroplast movement was measured using two independent methods: one with a SPAD 502 Chlorophyll meter and another by collimated transmittance at a selected wavelength (676 nm). A sensitive periodic movement of chloroplasts was used in high or low (2 000 or 50 μmol/m2 per s photosynthetically active radiation, respectively) cold white light with periods of 50 or 130 min. Measurements were carried out in the irradiated area, in the non‐irradiated area of the same leaf or in the leaf located on the stem below the irradiated or burned one. No significant changes in systemic chloroplast movement in non‐irradiated parts of the leaf and in the non‐treated leaf were detected. Our data indicate that chloroplast movement in tobacco is dependent dominantly on the intensity and spectral composition of the incident light and on the local stimulation and state of the target tissue. No systemic signal was strong enough to evoke a detectable systemic response in chloroplast movement in distant untreated tissues of tobacco plants.
Transcriptional Regulation and Signaling in Phosphorus Starvation: What About Legumes?
Authors: Valdés‐López Oswaldo , Hernández Georgina
Published: October 2008

The availability of soil phosphorus (P), an essential element, is one of the most important requirements for plant growth and crop production. The morphological and physiological adaptations evolved by plants to cope with P starvation have been well characterized. Several P deficiency plant responses are regulated at the transcriptional level. Microarray analysis has generated valuable information on global gene expression in Arabidopsis thaliana grown under P‐stress. Despite the identification of P responsive genes, little is known about the regulation of gene expression changes. Four transcription factors, PHR1, WRKY75, ZAT6 and BHLH32, involved in P starvation signaling have been characterized in Arabidopsis, and signaling pathways are deciphered. This review analyzes the current knowledge of transcriptional regulation of P starvation responses in Arabidopsis vis‐à‐vis legumes such as lupine, common bean and Medicago truncatula. The knowledge on regulatory and signaling mechanisms involved in P acquisition and use in legumes will be useful for improvement of these crops, which account for a large proportion of the world's crop production, providing good nutritional quality feed and food.
Impact of BSE on Beef Purchases in Alberta and Ontario Quick‐Serve Restaurants
Authors: Maynard Leigh J. , Goddard Ellen , Conley John
Published: October 2008

This analysis employed a highly disaggregated household data set of Alberta and Ontario fast food purchases from May 2000 to May 2005. A double‐hurdle count data model allowed tests of the hypotheses that frequency of Bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) media coverage affected neither a household's monthly probability of purchasing a beef entree, nor the household's monthly quantity of beef entrees purchased. Ontario consumers were more likely to stop purchasing beef entrees immediately following a surge in BSE media coverage, but those who did buy beef entrees maintained stable quantity levels. BSE media coverage did not systematically affect fast food purchases among Alberta consumers.

Dans la présente analyse, nous avons utilisé un ensemble de données fortement désagrégées sur les achats de repas–minute effectués par des ménages de l'Alberta et de l'Ontario, entre mai 2000 et mai 2005. Un modèle de comptage à deux étapes (double hurdle count data model) a permis de vérifier les hypothèses selon lesquelles la concentration de la couverture médiatique de la crise de l'ESB n'influence pas la probabilité mensuelle d'un ménage d'acheter des repas–minute de bœuf ni la quantité mensuelle de repas–minute de bœuf achetés par un ménage. Les consommateurs ontariens étaient plus susceptibles de cesser d'acheter des repas–minute de bœuf immédiatement après une poussée de la couverture médiatique de la crise de l'ESB, mais ceux qui achetaient des repas–minute de bœuf ont maintenu les quantités achetées. La couverture médiatique de la crise de l'ESB n'a pas systématiquement influencé les achats de repas–minute chez les consommateurs albertains.
REUSABLE SURFACE PLASMON RESONANCE ASSAY FOR THE SPECIFIC DETECTION OF STREPTOCOCCUS PNEUMONIAE tmRNA
Authors: GLYNN BARRY , LACEY KATRINA , O'GRADY JUSTIN , BARRY THOMAS , SMITH TERRY J. , MAHER MAJELLA
Published: October 2008

A capture oligonucleotide‐based surface plasmon resonance assay was developed for the specific detection of tmRNA from the gram‐positive pathogen Streptococcus pneumoniae. Candidate species‐specific probes were initially screened on microarrays using labeled in vitro transcribed tmRNA before being subjected to further analysis on a Biacore 2000 biosensor using a variety of unlabeled tmRNA‐containing samples. Previous work had demonstrated that there is approximately 1,000 copies/cfu of tmRNA in S. pneumoniae. The natural amplification of this target has the potential to improve the detection capability of a nucleic acid diagnostics assay. In this study, S. pneumoniae‐specific probes were designed that enabled the detection of 1012 cRNA copies of the tmRNA target on the Biacore instrument. When evaluated in combination with nucleic acid sequence‐based amplification, specific detection of tmRNA from a single S. pneumoniae cell was demonstrated.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Postamplification analysis remains a significant bottleneck in nucleic acid diagnostics protocols, while real‐time amplification consumables are expensive as well as perishable. The method presented here enables the rapid (5 min per sample) and specific identification of target RNA sequences following nucleic acid sequence‐based amplification (NASBA). The biosensor chips used are stable and reusable for more than 100 analyses. Probe hybridization specificity has been demonstrated at a relatively low temperature (40C), while isothermal NASBA amplification removes the requirement for dedicated thermocyclers in the test laboratory. This detection format could also be applied to other in vitro amplification products. The combination of isothermal in vitro amplification with rapid, reusable chip assays potentially allows for the automated, high‐throughput and specific identification of bacterial pathogens.
A RAPID METHOD FOR ESTIMATING VIABILITY IN DESICCATED CELLS OF THE BIOCONTROL AGENT TSUKAMURELLA PAUROMETABOLA C‐924
Authors: HERNÁNDEZ ARMANDO , MOREIRA ALAIN , PIMENTEL EULOGIO , MARTÍNEZ JORGE , MENA JESÚS , DEL TORO NEYLEN
Published: October 2008

A new method for the rapid estimation of viability in anhydrobiotic cells of the biocontrol agent Tsukamurella paurometabola C‐924 was developed. The method is based on the absorbance due to hydrogen sulfide production. A linear model was obtained by plotting decimal logarithm of the corrected absorbance at 670 nm (log[Abscorrected]) versus the decimal logarithm of culturable cells (log[Xv]) (r2 = 0.9428). After comparing the results obtained by the proposed method to the ones obtained by the plate counting technique, no significant difference was observed in the number of culturable cells. The new technique, which is faster than plate counting, permits the estimation of biologic activity in anhydrobiotic cells of the strain C‐924 in only 2 h.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

No previous reports concerning the method presented in this paper were found in the reviewed literature; in our particular case, this method allows a rapid evaluation of the viability and physiologic state of Tsukamurella paurometabola C‐924. The method presented here permits the estimation of viability in desiccated cells of bacteria that produce hydrogen sulfide from cysteine as a sulfur source. This methodology could be applied in research related to the isolation of anhydrobiotes hydrogen sulfide producers. In addition, industrial application could be found, for example, the assessment of the viability of bacteria hydrogen sulfide producers formulated in wettable powders used in bioremediation or bioprecipitation of heavy metals. Furthermore, the biologic activity of these microorganisms could be estimated (i.e., desulfurase activity).
A PORTABLE RAMAN SYSTEM FOR THE IDENTIFICATION OF FOODBORNE PATHOGENIC BACTERIA
Authors: LUO B. STEVEN , LIN MIN
Published: October 2008

Raman spectroscopy is emerging as an important nondestructive, noninvasive, analytical tool for the analysis of biologic materials. This study presents a procedure to make use of commercial off‐the‐shelf components to construct a portable dispersive Raman system and evaluates it for discrimination of bacteria by surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). The system consists of a semiconductor laser (784.8 nm), a fiber optic probe (∼135 µm focal spot), a mini spectrometer and a computer. UV‐visible spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy analysis of four silver colloid preparations produced in this study, together with the SERS spectra of Listeria innocua adsorbed on colloidal particles, indicated that silver colloids with the extinction maximum at >415 nm (particle size >75 nm) and a larger long wavelength tail are capable of promoting SERS of bacteria. The SERS spectra of Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Salmonella enterica were acquired with the system, leading to an unambiguous identification of these bacterial foodborne pathogens on the basis of their unique spectral bands. This study demonstrated the feasibility of constructing a low‐cost compact Raman system using commercially available components to perform the SERS analysis of bacteria.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Commercial off‐the‐shelf components such as a semiconductor laser, a fiber optic probe and a mini spectrometer can be used to construct a portable, low‐cost dispersive Raman system. Such system allows for the acquisition of SERS spectra of bacteria adsorbed on silver colloidal nanoparticles, as exemplified by three important bacterial foodborne pathogens L. monocytogenes (serotype 4b), E. coli O157:H7 and S. enterica (serotype Typhimurium DT 104). An unambiguous identification of these pathogens was achieved based on their unique spectral bands, indicating that an inexpensive dispersive Raman system such as the one described here may be built for the rapid characterization of bacteria isolates from food, clinical and environment samples using SERS spectral fingerprints.
RAPID DETECTION AND ENUMERATION OF CONTAMINANTS BY ATP BIOLUMINESCENCE USING THE MILLIFLEX® RAPID MICROBIOLOGY DETECTION AND ENUMERATION SYSTEM
Authors: CHOLLET RENAUD , KUKUCZKA MONIKA , HALTER NADINE , ROMIEUX MARILYN , MARC FREDERIC , MEDER HERVE , BEGUIN VINCENT , RIBAULT SEBASTIEN
Published: October 2008

The Milliflex® Rapid Microbiology Detection and Enumeration System (RMDS) is an automated platform developed for the rapid detection of microbial contaminants in filterable samples. Based on membrane filtration, adenosine triphosphate bioluminescence and image analysis, RMDS gives microorganism enumeration a detection time reduced by a factor of four compared to plate count. After sample filtration and incubation step, a universal lysis solution and bioluminescence reagent are automatically sprayed across the membrane. The membrane is then analyzed in a detection tower where light emission is captured by a charged coupled device camera. Data collected are treated, directly providing a result in colony‐forming units. RMDS sensitivity is one cell and is equivalent to traditional microbiology. Rapid detection of bacteria, mixed bacteria and yeast was performed in various industrial samples. RMDS allowed rapid detection of contaminants in different simple and complex matrices such as water, tea, wine and mammalian cells.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The Milliflex® Rapid Microbiology Detection and Enumeration System (RMDS) is used to detect and enumerate microorganisms in filterable samples with time to detection in hours.

The easy handling of this detection platform enables its use in all kinds of industries from food and beverage industries to biotechnology or pharmaceutical industries where procedures and method validation are stricter. One application is the use of RMDS for purified water testing and rinsing water. Rapid enumeration of contaminants will improve the quality control analysis of industrial products. Rapid release of samples will result in the optimization of manufacturing and product testing, allowing high throughput and simultaneous analysis during the process.
THE APPLICATION OF INDUSTRIAL ORGANIZATION ECONOMICS TO SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT RESEARCH*
Authors: GRIMM CURTIS M.
Published: October 2008

Economics is a powerful discipline, with the potential for rich contributions to the younger, newer business school disciplines. This article first discusses the different ways economics can influence a business school discipline, followed by perspectives on the field of supply chain management. The core sections of the paper are, first, the influence of economics on supply chain management through empirical methods, and second, the influence of economics on supply chain through theories.
Involvement of endothelin‐1 in habitual exercise‐induced increase in arterial compliance
Authors: Maeda S. , Sugawara J. , Yoshizawa M. , Otsuki T. , Shimojo N. , Jesmin S. , Ajisaka R. , Miyauchi T. , Tanaka H.
Published: October 2008

Aim: Habitual aerobic exercise results in a significant increase in central arterial compliance. Endothelin‐1 (ET‐1) is a potent endothelium‐derived vasoconstrictor peptide and could play a role in mediating the habitual aerobic exercise‐induced increase in central arterial compliance. The aim of the present study was to examine whether ET‐1 is involved in the mechanisms underlying the increase in central arterial compliance with aerobic exercise training.

Methods: Seven apparently healthy middle‐aged and older (60 ± 3 years) adults underwent systemic endothelin‐A/B (ETA/B)‐receptor blockade (500 mg of Tracleer®) before and after 12 weeks of aerobic exercise training (70 ± 1% of maximal heart rate, 44 ± 2 min day−1, 4.4 ± 0.1 days week−1).

Results: Basal carotid arterial compliance (via simultaneous B‐mode ultrasound and arterial applanation tonometry on the common carotid artery) increased significantly after exercise training. Resting plasma ET‐1 concentration decreased significantly after exercise training. Before exercise intervention, carotid arterial compliance increased significantly with the administration of the ETA/B‐receptor blockade. After training, however, increases in carotid arterial compliance previously observed with the ETA/B‐receptor blockade before training were abolished.

Conclusions: Regular aerobic exercise training enhances central arterial compliance in middle‐aged and older humans. The increase in arterial compliance was associated with the corresponding reduction in plasma ET‐1 concentration as well as the elimination of ET‐1‐mediated vascular tone. These results suggest that reductions in ET‐1 may be an important mechanism underlying the beneficial effect of exercise training on central artery compliance.
Cysts of branchial arch origin in the thymus of the Beagle
Authors: NEWMAN A. J.
Published: October 2008

Examination of thymus glands from Beagles used in routine toxicological experiments revealed an age‐related increase in the incidence and size of cysts of branchial origin in the groups: 28–30 months, 16–18 months, 10–12 months, 6–8 months.

The cysts varied in size and in the distribution of the cell types constituting the epithelium. Histochemical examination of cyst contents revealed mucosubstances that were considered similar to those of normal respiratory mucins in man.

The incidence of small cysts of branchial arch origin in the thymus of beagles was seen to increase with age. The increase is considered to be greater than that attributable to the regression of surrounding thymic tissue alone. Reference is made to a clinical case in which cystic distension of the thymus was present.

Résumé. L'examen de thymus de chiens Beagle utilisés en expériences courantes de toxicologie a fait ressortir un accroissement proportionnel à l'âge dans la fréquence et la dimension des kystes d'origine branchiale, dans les groups de 28–30 mois, 16–18 mois, 10–12 mois, 6–8 mois.

Les kystes présentaient des variations de grosseur, ainsi que dans la répartition des cellules type constituant l'épithélium. L'analyse histochimique du contenu des kystes a révélé des mucosubstances considtétés similaires à celles des mucosités normales du système respiratoire de l'homme.

Zusammenfassung. Prüfung der Thymusdrüsen von Hirschhunden in normalen toxikologischen Versuchen zeigte mit dem Alter zusammenhängende Steigerung im Auftreten und in der Größe von Zysten mit Kiemenurspxung in den Gruppen 28–30 Monate, 16–18 Monate, 10–12 Monate, und 6–8 Monate. In der Größe der Zysten und in der Verteilung der das Epithelgewebe bildenden Zellentypen waren Schwankungen festzustellen. Histochemische Untersuchung der Zysteninhalte ergab Schleimsubstanzen, die ähnlich den normalen Mucinen in den Atmungswegen des Menschen erschienen.
Genetic defects in Antarctic dogs*
Authors: BELLARS A. R. M.
Published: October 2008

The occurrence of congenital entropion and true haemophilia in a closed population of working British Antarctic Survey sledge dogs is described. The difficulties of determining the patterns of inheritance are discussed.

Résumé. L'occurence de l'entropion congénital et de l'hémophilie de type ancestral dans une population fermée de chiens d'attache est examinée dans le cadre d'une Etude antarctique. L'auteur passe en revue les problèmes que soulève la déterminaton des modes d'hérédité.

Zusammenfassung. Das Auftreten kongenitalen Entropiums und echter Hämophilie in einer geschlossenen Population arbeitender Schlittenhunde der British Antarctic Swey wird beschrieben. Die Schwierigkeiten der Bestimmung des Erbgangs werden besprochen.
Synovioma in a cat
Authors: Davies J. Douglas , Little N. R. F.
Published: October 2008

A synovial tumour arose from tendon sheath in the right hind paw of an 8‐year‐old British short‐hair tabby cat. Four months after excision the tumour recurred locally but no metastasis was demonstrable at necropsy. Three cases of synovioma in the cat are now on record; they are characterized by a distal site in the limbs, intimate attachment to tendon sheaths, proclivity to local recurrence without metastasis, and prominent tumour giant cells.

Résumé. Une tumeur synoviale s'est formée sur l'enveloppe tendineuse de la patte postérieure droite d'un chat anglais moucheté à poils ras, de 8 ans. Quatre mois après l'excision de la tumeur, on a noté une rechute locale mais pas de métastase à l'autopsie. On connaît trois cas de synoviomes chez le chat, les tumeurs sont caractérisées par leur situation distale sur les membres, leur adhérence intime aux enveloppes du tendon, leur tendance à des rechutes locales sans métastase et la prédominance de cellules géantes dans la tumeur.

Zusammenfassung. Ein Synovialtumor entstand aus der Sehnenscheide in der rechten Hinterpfote einer acht Jahre alten kurzhaarigen britischen Tabby‐Katze. Vier Monate nach der Exzision kehrte der Tumor örtlich wieder, aber bei der Autopsie war keine Metastase nachweisbar. Es sind jetzt drei Fälle von Synovialom bei der Katze verzeichnet; sie sind charakterisiert durch distales Auftreten an den Gliedmassen, enge Verbundenheit mit Sehnenscheiden, Neigung zum örtlichen Wiederauftreten ohne Metastase und prominente Tumorriesenzellen.
Spermatogenic arrest with azoospermia in two Welsh Springer Spaniels
Authors: Hadley J. C.
Published: October 2008

The case histories of two infertile male Welsh Springer Spaniels are described. The semen of one animal showed azoospermia which was later found to be of functional origin when both dogs were examined by testicu‐lar biopsy. Histological examination of the testicles of both dogs revealed the condition of spermatogenic arrest. The incidence of azoospermia in dogs and the aetiology of spermatogenic arrest are discussed. It is considered likely that more cases of spermatogenic arrest would be recognized if infertile dogs were subjected to testicular biopsy.

Résumé. L'auteur décrit deux observations d'épagneuls springer infertiles. Le sperme de l'un de ces animaux a présenté de l'azoospermie, dont on a pu constater ultérieurement l'origine fonctionnelle lorsque les deux chiens ont subi une biopsie testiculaire. L'examen histologique des testicules de ces deux animaux a montré un arrêt de la spermatogénèse. La fréquence de l'azoospermie chez le chien et son étiologie spermatogenétique sont discutées. On pense que si l'on soumettait les chiens infertiles à une biopsie testiculaire, on serait amené à découvrir un plus grand nombre d'arrêts de la spermatogénèse.

Zusammenfassung. Die Fälle von zwei unfruchtbaren männlichen Welsh Springer‐Spaniels werden beschrieben. Das Sperma des einen Tiers zeigte Azoospermie, die sich später als funktioneilen Ursprungs herausstellte, als beide Hunde durch Testikelbiopsie untersucht wurden. Die histologische Untersuchung der Testikel beider Hunde zeigte den Zustand spermiogene‐tischen Arrests. Die Häufigkeit von Azoospermie bei Hunden und die ätiologie des spermio‐genetischen Arrests werden besprochen. Es wird für wahrscheinlich gehalten, dass mehr Fälle von spermiogenetischem Arrest erkannt würden, falls unfruchtbare Hunde der Testikelbiopsie unterzogen werden.
Fat assimilation in dogs, estimated by a fat‐balance procedure
Authors: Hill F. W. G. , Kidder D. E.
Published: October 2008

A suitable procedure is described for a canine fat‐balance test which may be used as an adjunct to clinical investigation.
The treatment of canine acanthosis nigricans
Authors: Bush B. M.
Published: October 2008

Long‐term corticostcroid therapy produced a clinical improvement in the skin condition of three dogs with acanthosis nigricans. The administration of TSH, and the stimulation of endogenous TSH production, failed to produce a satisfactory response.

Résumé. Une thérapeutique aux corticostéroïdes à long terme a provoqué une amélioration clinique dans l'état cutané de trois chiens souffrant d'acanthosis nigricans. L'administration de THS et la stimulation de la production endogène de TSH n'ont pas amorcé de réaction satisfaisante.

Zusammenfassung. Langzeitige Corticosteroidtherapie führte zu einer klinischen Besserung des Hautzustands von drei Hunden mit Acanthosis nigricans. Die Anwendung von TSH und die Anregung der endogenen TSH‐Produktion rief keine zufriedenstellende Reaktion hervor.
Acute peritonitis in a kitten associated with Salmonella typhimurium infection
Authors: Ingham B. , Brentnall D. W.
Published: October 2008

Salmonella typhimurium was isolated from the peritoneal exudate of a kitten which died from an acute peritonitis.

Résumé. On a isolé Salmonella typhimurium de l'exudat péritonéal d'un chaton, mort d'une péritonite aiguë.

Zusammenfassung. Salmonella typhimurium wurde aus dem peritonealen Exsudat einer jungen Katze isoliert, die an einer akuten Peritonitis starb.
Bone tuberculosis in wallabies (Protemnodon rufogrisea frutica)
Authors: Hime J. M. , Jones D. M.
Published: October 2008

The clinical and radiological signs and necropsy findings in four cases of bone tuberculosis occurring in the Bennett's wallaby are described. The implication of these findings in differential diagnosis from muscular dystrophy are discussed.

Résumé. On décrit les signes cliniques et radiologiques, ainsi que les conclusions tirées de l'autopsie de 4 cas d'ostéite tuberculeuse rencontrés chez les Bennetts Wallaby. On discute de l'incidence de ces constatations sur le diagnostic différentiel de la dystrophie musculaire.

Zusammenfassung. Die klinischen und radiologischen Befunde und die Autopsieergebnisse in vier Fällen von Knochentuberkulose in Bennetts Wallaby werden beschrieben. Die Bedeutung dieser Befunde für die Differentialdiagnose dieser Erkrankung und der Muskeldystrophie wird besprochen.
La reciente evolución de la cobertura de la seguridad social en el Brasil
Authors: Ansiliero Graziela , Paiva Luís Henrique
Published: October 2008

Resumen  Este artículo describe y evalúa los indicadores de la cobertura de la seguridad social en Brasil a lo largo del período comprendido entre 1992 y 2006 para los trabajadores con empleo y las personas de edad avanzada. Si bien la cobertura de los trabajadores jubilados ha puesto de manifiesto algún grado de estabilidad en los últimos años, la de los trabajadores ocupados cambió significativamente a lo largo del período, mostrando claros signos de deterioro entre 1992 y 2002, y de recuperación desde entonces. Son pocos los empleados por cuenta propia en la agricultura en las zonas rurales (Asegurados especiales, trabajadores con regímenes de seguridad social específicos) que representan la mayor parte del deterioro. La recuperación económica y un aumento de los nuevos trabajos registrados explican la mayor parte de las mejoras de la cobertura entre 2003 y 2006. Los factores administrativos e institucionales también desempeñaron un papel relevante, especialmente en la promoción de la inclusión de los trabajadores domésticos y de los trabajadores por cuenta propia como cotizantes a la seguridad social.
El papy‐boom, una oportunidad histórica para el hospital público francés
Authors: Holcman Robert
Published: October 2008

Resumen  El hospital público francés, que ocupa un lugar preponderante en los gastos de seguridad social, está sujeto a un conjunto de reformas que modifican en profundidad su equilibrio financiero y la organización interna de su actividad. Sin embargo, no se encuentra en condiciones de hacer frente a la exigencia de productividad que se le había impuesto: sus gastos están constituidos, en sus tres cuartas partes, por su masa salarial; los trabajadores que emplea son, en su gran mayoría, funcionarios de hospitales de los que no puede desvincularse. Sólo la revolución demográfica en curso, que verá partir, en el próximo decenio, a la mitad de las plantillas de la administración pública de los hospitales franceses, puede dar la ocasión de modificar, de manera duradera, el volumen de la mano de obra.
THE BURDEN OF HIV/AIDS IN THE PUBLIC HEALTHCARE SYSTEM
Authors: Cleary Susan , Boulle Andrew , Castillo‐riquelme Marianela , Mcintyre Di
Published: October 2008

Given current lack of routine data, assessing the burden of HIV/AIDS on the public healthcare system is complex. This research aimed to collect a wide range of data that could be used to estimate this burden and the costs of meeting it. Data collection was undertaken by research doctors who were employed in a wide spectrum of facilities to compile information on patients' HIV‐status, retrospective utilisation of services and unit costs of care. Key results indicated that the percentage of expenditure on HIV‐related care was 26% across all facilities. HIV‐positive patients had higher utilisation of services compared to other patient groups; the annual cost per patient was estimated to be R4,813 (2007/08 prices). Results should be interpreted in the light of the underlying population need and context‐specific access barriers.
COST AND QUALITY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS FOR HOME COMMUNITY‐BASED CARE SERVICES TO ORPHANS AND VULNERABLE CHILDREN
Authors: Naidu V , Aguilera J.f. , De Beer J , Netshipale P , Harris G
Published: October 2008

The encouragement of care of orphans and vulnerable children by non‐profit organisations (NPOs) is a major policy response to the HIV and AIDS epidemic in South Africa. The purpose of this article is to present a quality–cost model with five performance indicators for quality and two for costs and to test these against actual performance using data collected from nine rural and urban organisations in 2004 and 2005. Six NPOs had acceptable cost but all had unacceptable quality scores; three had unacceptable cost and unacceptable quality scores. Each rural caregiver had many more orphans and vulnerable children beneficiaries than their urban counterparts but made fewer total visits. As a result, urban beneficiaries received, on average, 3.5 times more visits than their rural counterparts. The results suggest the need for different performance indicators and expectations for rural and urban NPOs and that monitoring and evaluation using the model could improve horne community‐based care services.
SECTORAL ELASTICITY OF SUBSTITUTION AND RETURNS TO SCALE IN SOUTH AFRICA
Authors: Gebreselasie Tewodros G.
Published: October 2008

Elasticity of substitution and returns to scale are estimated on a sectoral basis for South Africa using panel‐based generalised least square procedure. Apart from sectoral differences in terms of elasticity of substitution, the study found that elasticity of substitution is below unity in all of the sectors. Most of the sectors studied are found to have increasing returns to scale in production. The study further explores the implications of elasticity of factor substitution and returns to scale on growth and employment creation. It is argued that a greater number of jobs can be created from growth of sectors with constant or decreasing returns to scale than from the same level of output growth generated by sectors with increasing returns to scale. This is the case when the employment‐creating potential of the same amount of additional output is compared in all the sectors examined. By virtue of scale economies, a sector like finance, insurance, real estate and business services generates more output with less proportional increase in inputs, which means growth in this sector may not have the desired impact on job creation. However, given the sector's large share (20%) of the country's total output and employment, it may generate more jobs, even if sectors like utilities and construction experience the same level of output growth. Given its importance for growth and employment, the study recommends further investigation into the reasons why elasticity of substitution is lower in sectors like utilities, mining and trade, catering and accommodation services.