bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bifocal Nummular Headache: A Series of 6 New Cases
Authors: Guerrero Ángel L. , Cuadrado María L. , García‐García María E. , Cortijo Elisa , Herrero‐Velázquez Sonia , Rodríguez Octavio , Mulero Patricia , Porta‐Etessam Jesús
Published: June 2011

(Headache 2011;51:1161‐1166)

Objective.— We aimed to report 6 new cases of bifocal nummular headache (NH), showing their clinical characteristics and comparing them with those formerly described.

Background.— NH is a focal head pain felt in a small, well‐circumscribed, coin‐shaped area. Among all the reported cases (over 200), 6 patients localized their pain in 2 or more separate areas.

Methods.— We reviewed all patients diagnosed with NH at the headache clinics of 2 tertiary hospitals, searching for cases with head pain in 2 different areas.

Results.— Six patients (4 female, 2 male; age at onset 40.8 ± 19.1, range 24‐69 years) presented with bifocal NH. The shape and size of both painful areas were identical in each patient. They were located at symmetrical points of either side in 3 patients, while 2 patients had both symptomatic areas on the same side of the head. The chronological pattern was synchronous in 2 patients, and the other 4 showed an additive pattern with onset intervals between the 2 areas ranging from 2 months to 30 years. Pain intensity was slightly different in each area in 4 of the cases. Four patients were treated with a preventive (gabapentin or carbamazepine) with good clinical response.

Conclusion.— Although not frequently found, some patients may have bifocal or multifocal NH.
Over‐Expression of Sphingosine Kinase‐1 Enhances a Progenitor Phenotype in Human Endothelial Cells
Authors: BARRETT JEFFREY M. , PARHAM KATE A. , PIPPAL JYOTSNA B. , COCKSHELL MICHAELIA P. , MORETTI PAUL A. B. , BRICE SARAH L. , PITSON STUART M. , BONDER CLAUDINE S.
Published: June 2011

Please cite this paper as: Barrett, Parham, Pippal, Cockshell, Moretti, Brice, Pitson, and Bonder (2011). Over‐Expression of Sphingosine Kinase‐1 Enhances a Progenitor Phenotype in Human Endothelial Cells. Microcirculation 18(7), 583–597.

Objectives:  The use of endothelial progenitor cells in vascular therapies has been limited due to their low numbers present in the bone marrow and peripheral blood. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of sphingosine kinase on the de‐differentiation of mature human endothelial cells toward a progenitor phenotype.

Methods:  The lipid enzyme sphingosine kinase‐1 was lentivirally over‐expressed in human umbilical vein endothelial cells and cells were analyzed for progenitor phenotype and function.

Results:  Sphingosine kinase‐1 mRNA expression was induced approximately 150‐fold with a resultant 20‐fold increase in sphingosine kinase‐1 enzymatic activity. The mRNA expression of the progenitor cell markers CD34, CD133, and CD117 and transcription factor NANOG increased, while the endothelial cell markers analyzed were largely unchanged. The protein level of mature endothelial cell surface markers CD31, CD144, and von Willebrand factor significantly decreased compared to controls. In addition, functional assays provided further evidence for a de‐differentiated phenotype with increased viability, reduced uptake of acetylated low‐density lipoprotein and decreased tube formation in Matrigel in the cells over‐expressing sphingosine kinase‐1.

Conclusions:  These findings suggest that over‐expression of sphingosine kinase‐1 in human endothelial cells promotes, in part, their de‐differentiation to a progenitor cell phenotype, and is thus a potential tool for the generation of a large population of vascular progenitor cells for therapeutic use.
Phase Stability, Electronic Structure, Compressibility, Elastic and Optical Properties of a Newly Discovered Ti3SnC2: A First‐Principle Study
Authors: He Xiaodong , Bai Yuelei , Chen Yang , Zhu Chuncheng , Li Mingwei , Barsoum M. W.
Published: June 2011

The phase stability, electronic structure, compressibility, optical and elastic properties of two polymorphs of Ti3SnC2 were investigated using first‐principle calculation. α‐Ti3SnC2 is confirmed to be the preferred equilibrium phase under high pressure and high temperature. The electronic structure calculations reveal that the Ti and C atoms form a strong Ti1‐C‐Ti2‐C‐Ti1 covalent bond chain while the bonding between Ti1 and Sn is relatively weak. In the low frequency range from radio waves to visible light, Ti3SnC2 behaves similarly with TiC. This material exhibits anisotropic compressibility under hydrostatic pressure: it is more compressible along the c‐direction than along a‐direction, related to the different bond stiffness and bond angle changes under high pressure. The second‐order elastic coefficients were calculated. For the α‐phase, the bulk, B, shear, G, and Young's moduli, E, are calculated to be 169.4, 124, and 197.4 GPa, respectively. The low G/B ratio partially explains why Ti3SnC2 is relatively soft and damage tolerant.
Preparation of Crystal‐Axis‐Oriented Barium Calcium Titanate Plate‐Like Particles and Its Application to Oriented Ceramic
Authors: Kong Xingang , Ishikawa Yoshie , Shinagawa Kazunari , Feng Qi
Published: June 2011

A novel two‐step process has been developed for the preparation of Ba0.9Ca0.1TiO3 plate‐like grains with [110]‐crystal‐axis‐orientation. In the first step, plate‐like particles of a layered titanate H1.07Ti1.73O4 are solvothermally treated in a Ba(OH)2–Ca(OH)2 mixed solution, and then in the second step, heat‐treat the solvothermally treated sample to complete the formation reaction of Ba0.9Ca0.1TiO3. The formation reaction and nanostructure of the Ba0.9Ca0.1TiO3 plate‐like grains were characterized using X‐ray diffraction, FE‐SEM, TEM, and SEAD. The Ba0.9Ca0.1TiO3 plate‐like grains are constructed from spherical nanoparticles with particle size of about 10–20 nm. The spherical nanocrystals in each plate‐like grain arrange in the same crystal‐axis‐orientation direction, which presented a diffraction pattern similar to the single crystal. The Ba0.9Ca0.1TiO3 plate‐like grains were utilized to fabricate an oriented Ba0.9Ca0.1TiO3 ceramic to demonstrate the potential application of the plate‐like grains, and the [110]‐oriented Ba0.9Ca0.1TiO3 ceramic with a high degree orientation of F110 = 76% and small grain size of about 1–2 μm was obtained.
Preparation of Nano Alumina Powder via Combustion Synthesis: Porous Structure Optimization via Taguchi L16 Design
Authors: Norouzbeigi Reza , Edrissi Mohammad
Published: June 2011

Nano alumina powders have been synthesized by combustion method using eight new fuels. The effectiveness of key process factors on the production of nanoparticles was investigated and optimized using Taguchi L16 array design. The products were characterized by XRD, BET, TGA, EDX, FESEM, and TEM analyses. Results demonstrated that the nano‐structured aluminum oxide powders had crystal sizes between 7.2 and 13 nm and specific surface areas between 21.0 and 70.0 m2/g. The synthesis of γ‐alumina was modified to achieve higher specific surface area (122.6 m2/g). A nano‐network of powders which was woven by alumina nano‐fibers was successfully fabricated by the modification route. The length and diameter of fibers were about 160 and 10 nm, respectively.
Effect of knee joint angle on neuromuscular activation of the vastus intermedius muscle during isometric contraction
Authors: Watanabe K. , Akima H.
Published: June 2011

The purpose of this study was to compare the relationship between surface electromyography (EMG) and knee joint angle of the vastus intermedius muscle (VI) with the synergistic muscles in the quadriceps femoris (QF) muscle group. Fourteen healthy men performed maximal voluntary contractions during isometric knee extension at four knee joint angles from 90°, 115°, 140°, and 165° (180° being full extension). During the contractions, surface EMG was recorded at four muscle components of the QF muscle group: the VI, vastus lateralis (VL), vastus medialis (VM), and rectus femoris (RF) muscles. The root mean square of the surface EMG at each knee joint angle was calculated and normalized by that at a knee joint angle of 90° for individual muscles. The normalized RMS of the VI muscle was significantly lower than those of the VL and RF muscles at the knee joint angles of 115° and 165° and those of the VL, VM, and RF muscles at the knee joint angle of 140° (P<0.05). The present results suggest that the neuromuscular activation of the VI muscle is regulated in a manner different from the alteration of the knee joint angle compared with other muscle components of the QF muscle group.
Changes in the bovine whey proteome during the early lactation period
Authors: SENDA Akitsugu , FUKUDA Kenji , ISHII Toshiaki , URASHIMA Tadasu
Published: June 2011

To investigate time‐dependent change in the bovine whey proteome during the early lactation period, a two‐dimensional gel‐based approach was used in this study. Milk samples were collected from five healthy Friesian‐Holstein dairy cows up to 10 days postpartum. Spot patterns of whey proteins varied drastically from immediately after parturition to 48 h, but no significant changes occurred thereafter. Protein identification by mass spectrometry revealed that the ratios of caseins and immunoglobulins drastically decreased during 48 h postpartum, while those of lower molecular mass proteins such as α‐lactalbumin and β‐lactoglobulin increased. More than 100 spots were detected, being much more abundant in colostral whey than in mature milk whey. Of a total of 25 proteins identified, four, viz. zinc‐α‐2‐glycoprotein, vitamin D‐binding protein, immunoglobulin G2 chain C and β2‐microglobulin, were detectable only in colostrum. Our results indicate that most of the minor whey proteins in colostrum relate to the passive immunity of newborn calves, but some of them play significant roles in nutritional supplementation of the neonate. The characteristics of whey proteins in transition imply that enhancement of innate immunity becomes more important than protection of the neonate against pathogens via passive immunity after 48 h postpartum.
The effect of temperature on survival of pathogenic bacteria in biogas plants
Authors: IWASAKI Masahiro , YAMASHIRO Takaki , BENERAGAMA Nilmini , NISHIDA Takehiro , KIDA Katsuya , IHARA Ikko , TAKAHASHI June‐ichi , UMETSU Kazutaka
Published: June 2011

The paper deals with the hygienic advantages of sanitation to treat dairy manure in full‐scale biogas plants. The slurry samples were collected from two thermophilic biogas plants (55°C) and two mesophilic biogas plants (38°C) in Hokkaido Japan. A detectable number of Coli‐aerogenes group and Enterococcus in the slurries after anaerobic digestion (AD) could not be found in either thermophilic biogas plants. However, in both mesophilic biogas plants the viable numbers of Coli‐aerogenes group and Enterococcus were detected in the slurries even after anaerobic digestion. The mean decimation reduction time (T90) values of the Coli‐aerogenes group and Enterococcus in the slurries during mesophilic digestion were 13.3 days and 16.7 days, respectively.
Calcitonin receptor binding in the hen anterior pituitary during an oviposition cycle
Authors: NAKAYAMA Hiroyuki , TAKAHASHI Tetsuya , NAKAGAWA‐MIZUYACHI Kaori , KAWASHIMA Mitsuo
Published: June 2011

The equilibrium dissociation constant (Kd) and the maximum binding capacity (Bmax) of calcitonin (CT) receptor in the plasma membrane of the anterior pituitary in hens were examined by Scatchard analysis of specific binding of 125I‐labeled chicken CT. Values of Kd and Bmax of CT receptor were smaller in laying hens than in non‐laying hens. A decrease in the Kd and Bmax value of CT receptor was observed in the anterior pituitary after the injection of estradiol‐17β and progesterone into nonlaying hens, but not changed after the injection of 5α‐dihydrotestosterone. During an oviposition cycle, the Kd and the Bmax value decreased 3 h before oviposition. In non‐laying hens, neither the Kd nor the Bmax value changed during a full day period. The present study suggests that the CT action on the anterior pituitary may increase 3 h before oviposition by the effect of estradiol‐17β and progesterone in laying hens.
Assessment of Behavioral and Psychiatric Problems in People With Prader–Willi Syndrome: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Spendelow Jason S.
Published: June 2011

Prader–Willi syndrome is a complex genetic disorder involving a wide range of behavioral, psychiatric, neurocognitive, and medical problems. A review of existing research was presented to facilitate assessment work with this population. Hyperphagia, compulsions/repetitive behavior, self‐injury (especially skin‐picking), and aggressive behaviors are particularly common in people with Prader–Willi syndrome. Psychotic, affective, and obsessive–compulsive disorders represent the most frequently occurring psychiatric disorders. Assessment should involve consideration of how behavioral and psychiatric problems can be influenced by neurocognitive functioning and medical issues. Research findings in these areas are presented to help clinicians make comprehensive assessment of mental health problems. The heterogeneous and progressive nature of many behavioral and psychiatric problems in this population presents significant challenges to psychological assessment and management. Comprehensive assessment requires an understanding of the phenotype of Prader–Willi syndrome, and associated issues that can impact upon clinical presentation.
Developing a Comprehensive Research Agenda for People With Intellectual Disability to Inform Policy Development and Reform
Authors: Townsend Clare Elizabeth
Published: June 2011

Gaps in policy and service systems exist for people with intellectual disability (ID). The areas of policy and services research that are required to address this situation are vast, complicated, and often interrelated. Strategically developed research agendas underpinned by a strict adherence to human rights principles can optimally inform policy and service development and reform. A framework to facilitate the conceptualization of a comprehensive and structured research agenda for ID that can underpin policy has been developed. It is informed by templates developed in mental health and health and consists of external parameters and internal domains and elements. It is overarched by human rights principles and takes into account other contextual factors including government policies and resources. The framework is applicable in a range of settings and can be used to prioritize and optimize research efforts and resources in the area of ID. The development, dissemination, and implementation of a comprehensive research agenda for ID requires the involvement of a range of key stakeholders, including consumers and carers, clinicians, researchers, and policymakers.
Developments in Deinstitutionalization and Community Living in the Czech Republic
Authors: Šiška Jan , Beadle‐Brown Julie
Published: June 2011

The Czech national policy on social services and health is based on the principal of human rights and empowerment of persons with disabilities. Based on published literature and reports, as well as knowledge and experience from working in the field, this mainly conceptual article summarizes progress over the past two decades in the Czech Republic in moving from an institutional era toward one that values community‐based alternatives. While European and national policy is supportive of community living, and new individualized funding streams have been created, progress in the Czech Republic toward the goal of community living for everyone with a disability has been slow and has met with many barriers. The authors highlight the need to consider issues such as the availability of data related to funding and delivery of services, planning of the transitional period toward community‐based services, accessibility of reports on quality of services (including institutions), and the conflict of interests created by the system of guardianship. The authors conclude that despite economic circumstances that may slow down the process of deinstitutionalization, the direction of change toward community living needs to be sustained.
An Exploration of the Roles of Nurse Managers in Evidence‐Based Practice Implementation
Authors: Wilkinson Joyce E. , Nutley Sandra M. , Davies Huw T.O.
Published: June 2011

Background: Internationally, nurses face ongoing difficulties in making a reality of evidence‐based practice. Existing studies suggest that nurse managers (NMs) should play a key role in leading and facilitating evidence‐based practice, but the nature of this role has not yet been fully explored or articulated. This is one of the first studies to investigate the roles of NMs in evidence‐based practice implementation.

Methodology and Methods: Using a case study approach the study explores five propositions in relation to the NMs’ potential evidence‐based practice role and the extent to which their attitudes, knowledge, and skills support such a role. In doing so, it draws on interviews (n= 51), documentary analysis and observational data.

Findings: Data analysis reveals that the role of NMs in facilitating evidence‐based practice is under‐articulated, largely passive and currently limited by competing demands. Progress in implementing evidence‐based practice in the case study sites is largely explained by factors other than the role played by NMs. As such, the findings expose significant discrepancies between NMs’ actual roles and those espoused in the literature as being necessary. Contextual factors are important and it is clear that the role of the contemporary NM places considerable emphasis on management and administration to the detriment of clinical practice concerns.

Conclusions: The study reveals that NMs are only involved in evidence‐based practice implementation in a passive role, not the full engagement described in the literature as being necessary. This study adds previously lacking detail of the roles of NMs. It elucidates why exhortations to NMs to become more involved in evidence‐based practice implementation are ineffective without action to address the problems identified.
An alternative isomerohydrolase in the retinal Müller cells of a cone‐dominant species
Authors: Takahashi Yusuke , Moiseyev Gennadiy , Chen Ying , Nikolaeva Olga , Ma Jian‐Xing
Published: June 2011

Cone photoreceptors have faster light responses than rods and a higher demand for 11‐cis retinal (11cRAL), the chromophore of visual pigments. RPE65 is the isomerohydrolase in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) that converts all‐trans retinyl ester to 11‐cis retinol, a key step in the visual cycle for regenerating 11cRAL. Accumulating evidence suggests that cone‐dominant species express an alternative isomerase, likely in retinal Müller cells, to meet the high demand for the chromophore by cones. In the present study, we describe the identification and characterization of a novel isomerohydrolase, RPE65c, from the cone‐dominant zebrafish retina. RPE65c shares 78% amino acid sequence identity with RPE‐specific zebrafish RPE65a (orthologue of human RPE65) and retains all of the known key residues for the enzymatic activity of RPE65. Similar to the other RPE‐specific RPE65, RPE65c was present in both the membrane and cytosolic fractions, used all‐trans retinyl ester as its substrate and required iron for its enzymatic activity. However, immunohistochemistry detected RPE65c in the inner retina, including Müller cells, but not in the RPE. Furthermore, double‐immunostaining of dissociated retinal cells using antibodies for RPE65c and glutamine synthetase (a Müller cell marker), showed that RPE65c co‐localized with the Müller cell marker. These results suggest that RPE65c is the alternative isomerohydrolase in the intra‐retinal visual cycle, providing 11cRAL to cone photoreceptors in cone‐dominant species. Identification of an alternative visual cycle will contribute to the understanding of the functional differences of rod and cone photoreceptors.

Structured digital abstract

RPE65c
 colocalizes with Calnexin by cosedimentation (View interaction)
Löfgren's syndrome misdiagnosed as cellulitis
Authors: Cheng Daryl Ray , Maini Amit
Published: June 2011

Löfgren's syndrome is an acute‐onset presentation of sarcoidosis that can be easily missed in an ED setting. A case is reported of Löfgren's syndrome presenting as erythema nodosum with bilateral ankle oedema. Although rare, this diagnosis should be considered when examining a patient with erythema nodosum and articular symptoms.
Turnover intention of graduate nurses in South Korea
Authors: LEE Haejung , LIM Yeonjung , JUNG Hee Young , SHIN Youn‐Wha
Published: June 2011

Aim:  The purpose of this study was to identify the turnover intention of graduate nurses in South Korea and to explore the correlates of turnover intention.

Methods:  A descriptive, correlational design was used. The participants comprised 225 female nurses who were working at 13 general hospitals and who had accumulated <12 months of clinical nursing experience since their graduation. The data were collected through a structured questionnaire that was conducted from 5–31 August 2009.

Results:  The mean score for turnover intention was 7.51. Turnover intention was found to be related to the number of beds in the hospital, workplace, and duration of job orientation (theory and practice), instruction by a preceptor, job stress, clinical competence, self‐efficacy, and the practice environment. In the multivariate approach, the practice environment, job stress, and the workplace were found to be significantly related to turnover intention and accounted for 36% of the said intention in the studied graduate nurses.

Conclusion:  The results support that the characteristics of magnet hospitals that improve the practice environment could play a critical role in retaining nurses in hospitals. Managerial interventions that enhance the practice environment, reduce job stress, and place graduate nurses in nursing units with a single specialty could benefit the hospitals employing such nurses. Further research to explore the effects of managerial strategies on graduate nurses' turnover intention is warranted.
Sexual Behaviors Among Adults in Puerto Rico: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Ortiz Ana Patricia , Soto-Salgado Marievelisse , Suárez Erick , del Carmen Santos-Ortiz María , Tortolero-Luna Guillermo , Pérez Cynthia M.
Published: June 2011

Introduction

Given changes in sexual behaviors and norms in the United States, there is a need for current and representative data on sexual behaviors with particular interest in gender, age, and racial/ethnic group differences.

Aim

Given the limited data for Hispanics and for Puerto Rico (PR), we described patterns of sexual behaviors and characteristics among a sexually active sample (n = 1,575) of adults aged 21–64 years in PR.

Main Outcome Measures

The main outcome measures for this study are sexual behaviors including age at sexual initiation, number of sexual partners, vaginal and anal intercourse, and oral sex, among others.

Methods

Data from a population-based cross-sectional study in PR (2005–2008) was analyzed. The prevalence of sexual behaviors and characteristics was described by age-group and gender during the lifetime and in the past 12 months.

Results

Overall, 96.8%, 81.6%, and 60.9% of participants had ever engaged in vaginal, oral and anal sex, respectively, whereas 23.7% were seropositive to any of the sexually transmitted infections under study. Sexual initiation ≤15 years was reported by 37.8% of men and 21.4% of women; whereas 47.9% of men and 13.2% of women reported to have had ≥7 sexual partners in their lifetime. Approximately, 3% of women and 6% of men reported same-sex sexual practices, while history of forced sexual relations was reported by 9.6% of women and 2.5% of men. Sexual initiation ≤15 years was more common among individuals aged 21–34 years (41.4% men and 33.6% women) as compared with older cohorts. Although having had ≥7 sexual partners over a lifetime among men was similar across age groups, this behavior decreased in older women cohorts. In both genders, the prevalence of oral and anal sex was also lower in the older age cohorts.

Conclusion

This study provides essential information that can help health professionals understand the sexual practices and needs of the population of PR.
Vaginal Orgasm Is More Prevalent Among Women with a Prominent Tubercle of the Upper Lip
Authors: Brody S. , Costa R. M.
Published: June 2011

Introduction

Recent studies have uncovered multiple markers of vaginal orgasm history (unblocked pelvic movement during walking, less use of immature psychological defense mechanisms, greater urethrovaginal space). Other markers (perhaps of prenatal origin) even without obvious mechanistic roles in vaginal orgasm might exist, and a clinical observation led to the novel hypothesis that a prominent tubercle of the upper lip is such a marker.

Aims

To examine the hypothesis that a prominent tubercle of the upper lip is associated specifically with greater likelihood of experiencing vaginal orgasm (orgasm elicited by penile–vaginal intercourse [PVI] without concurrent masturbation).

Methods

Women (N = 258, predominantly Scottish) completed an online survey reporting their frequencies of various sexual activities and corresponding orgasms, age, and the prominence of the tubercle of their upper lip. Social desirability response bias was also assessed.

Main Outcome Measures

Multivariate associations of lip tubercle prominence with vaginal orgasm (ever and past month consistency) and with orgasm by other means.

Results

A prominent and sharply raised lip tubercle was associated with greater odds (odds ratio = 12.3) of ever having a vaginal orgasm, and also with greater past month vaginal orgasm consistency (an effect driven by the women who never had a vaginal orgasm), than less prominent lip tubercle categories. Lip tubercle was not associated with social desirability responding, or with orgasm triggered by masturbation during PVI, solitary or partner clitoral or vaginal masturbation, vibrator, or cunnilingus.

Conclusions

The results are discussed in light of the unique nature of vaginal orgasm and the possibility of prenatal developmental influences.
Development and Psychometric Properties of the Female Sexual Desire Questionnaire (FSDQ)
Authors: Goldhammer Denisa L. , McCabe Marita P.
Published: June 2011

Introduction

Sexual desire is often evaluated as part of a global assessment of female sexual function, which may not comprehensively evaluate the various facets of this experience. There currently exists a need to develop a psychometrically robust desire-specific measure for women.

Aim

The aim of this study was to develop and validate a desire-specific, self-administered instrument that evaluates the multiple facets of sexual desire and factors influencing this experience for partnered heterosexual women, with or without sexual dysfunction.

Methods

Preliminary items for inclusion in the Female Sexual Desire Questionnaire (FSDQ) were identified through a literature review and individual interviews with partnered heterosexual women, mostly from Australia. The resulting instrument was completed by a validation sample of 741 women, aged between 18 and 71 years, who were involved in a heterosexual relationship of between 3 months' and 49 years' duration.

Main Outcome Measures

Exploratory factor analysis was used to refine the FSDQ item content and identify the underlying domain structure. The reliability (internal consistency) and validity (convergent validity) of the FSDQ were also evaluated.

Results

The final version of the FSDQ consisted of 50 items organized into six domains that characterized the experience of, and factors influencing, sexual desire for heterosexual partnered women: Dyadic Desire, Solitary Desire, Resistance, Positive Relationship, Sexual Self-Image, and Concern. Each domain demonstrated high reliability, as did the overall measure. Evidence of construct validity was ascertained through convergence with the Sexual Desire Inventory and the Hurlbert Index of Sexual Desire. A short-form of the FSDQ, consisting of six items, was also developed.

Conclusions

The FSDQ is a new reliable and valid multidimensional measure designed specifically for evaluating the facets of, and factors influencing, sexual desire among sexually functional and dysfunctional women who are involved in a heterosexual relationship.
Exogenous Testosterone, Cardiovascular Events, and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Elderly Men: A Review of Trial Data
Authors: Carson III Culley C. , Rosano Giuseppe
Published: June 2011

Introduction

Increasing interest in the use of supplemental testosterone has led to a heightened focus on the safety of testosterone in elderly males, with a particular emphasis on cardiovascular risk.

Aims

To evaluate, based on available clinical trial data, whether exogenous testosterone administration in middle-aged to elderly men increases cardiovascular risk, and to assess whether these effects differ in hypogonadal vs. eugonadal subjects.

Methods

MEDLINE search from 2004 to present of all meta-analyses and randomized, controlled clinical trials of testosterone administration in male subjects ≥45 years old that included measurements of cardiovascular outcomes or known cardiovascular risk factors before and after treatment with testosterone.

Main Outcome Measures

The effects of testosterone treatment on cardiovascular events and cardiovascular risk factors were assessed.

Results

In clinical trials where testosterone has been used in patients with preexisting cardiovascular conditions, the effect on disease symptoms has typically been either neutral or beneficial. Based on clinical trial data, testosterone treatment has minimal effect on cardiovascular risk factors with the exception of an increase in hematocrit, which is consistently seen with testosterone treatment, and a decrease in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, which is an inconsistent response. Responses of hypogonadal and eugonadal men to testosterone treatment in terms of cardiovascular risk are generally similar. Testosterone treatment has not been reported to increase the incidence of cardiovascular events with the possible exception of one trial in frail elderly men.

Conclusions

Available clinical trial data indicate that the use of testosterone in middle-aged to elderly men does not increase cardiovascular risk nor does it unfavorably modify cardiovascular risk profile. Prospective data from large, well-designed, long-term trials of testosterone treatment are lacking and will be required to verify the cardiovascular efficacy/safety of chronic treatment.
Fluoxetine Chronic Treatment Inhibits Male Rat Sexual Behavior by Affecting Both Copulatory Behavior and the Genital Motor Pattern of Ejaculation
Authors: Hueletl-Soto María Eugenia , Carro-Juárez Miguel , Rodríguez-Manzo Gabriela
Published: June 2011

Introduction

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are antidepressants that cause sexual dysfunction. The SSRI fluoxetine (FLX) appears to particularly affect the ejaculatory response. Ejaculation is regulated both at brain and spinal levels.

Aim

To study the acute and chronic effects of FLX on male rat copulatory behavior, trying to distinguish between brain and spinal cord FLX-induced changes on the ejaculatory response.

Methods

Sexually experienced male rats were intraperitoneally injected with 5 or 10 mg/kg FLX and tested for sexual behavior during 60 minutes on days 1, 7, and 14 of treatment. After a 2-day drug holiday, the males chronically treated with the high FLX dose were spinalized to record spontaneous and mechanically evoked genital motor patterns of ejaculation (GMPEs). In addition, independent groups were used to evaluate the acute effects of 1, 3, or 10 µg/rat FLX (intravenously) on the GMPE.

Main Outcome Measures

Number of ejaculatory series and their parameters; electromyographic recordings of the GMPE in the bulbospongiosus muscles and their parameters.

Results

Acute FLX injection slightly affected sexual behavior display and dose-dependently inhibited the expression of the GMPE. Chronic FLX treatment did not inhibit copulation but produced deficits in the parameters related to ejaculation after the high dose. In these animals, the response capacity of the spinal generator of ejaculation (SGE) as well as the number of discharges in the GMPE was decreased as a result of chronic FLX treatment.

Conclusions

Chronic FLX treatment produces inhibitory effects on male rat copulation, particularly on ejaculation, some of which are exerted directly at the SGE.
Recent and Lifelong Sexual Dysfunction in a Female UK Population Sample: Prevalence and Risk Factors
Authors: Burri Andrea , Spector Timothy
Published: June 2011

Introduction

To date, no studies have tried to explore the prevalence and risk factors of recent and lifelong female sexual dysfunction (FSD) in the United Kingdom using validated questionnaires for the assessment of symptom severity and levels of associated sexual distress.

Aim

To estimate the prevalence and comorbidity of recent and lifelong FSD and to further identify potential psychosocial and behavioral risk factors in a nationally representative sample of UK women.

Methods

One thousand four hundred eighty-nine unselected female twin individuals aged 18–85 years. Validated questionnaires, such as the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and the Female Sexual Distress Scale, were used for the assessment of symptom severity and degree of sexual distress.

Main Outcome Measures

Prevalence and comorbidity of recent and lifelong FSD according to the FSFI cutoff points and the existence of sexual distress. Lifelong FSD refers to an individual's average sexual function ever since they have been sexually active. We further calculated odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence interval for FSD.

Results

We found that 5.8% of women reported any recent sexual dysfunction and 15.5% reported any lifelong sexual dysfunction. Hyposexual desire was the most prevalent recent and lifelong sexual complaint (21.4% and 17.3%, respectively). High intercorrelations were found for both recent and lifelong FSD (r = 0.3–0.7). The most common independent, clinical predictor of recent and lifelong FSD diagnosis was relationship dissatisfaction (OR 1.2–4.5). Experience of abuse (OR 1.6–2.1), increased anxiety, and obsessive compulsive behavior were the most common predictors for lifelong FSD.

Conclusions

The study provides the first UK population-based assessment of recent and lifelong FSD using validated outcome measures and accounting for sexual distress. Our results indicate that FSD is common in the general population and is influenced by psychosocial factors with different pathoetiologies underlying recent and lifelong FSD.
Metabolic Syndrome, Testosterone, and Cardiovascular Mortality in Men
Authors: Lin Jou-Wei , Lee Jen-Kuang , Wu Cho-Kai , Caffrey James L. , Chang Man-Huei , Hwang Juey-Jen , Dowling Nicole , Lin Yu-Sheng
Published: June 2011

Introduction

Interactions among testosterone, metabolic syndrome (MetS), and mortality risk in men remain to be elucidated.

Aim

To examine relationships among testosterone, MetS, and cardiovascular mortality risk in U.S. men, middle-aged and older.

Methods

The analysis included the men aged 40 years and above in Phase 1 (1988–1991) of the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III). Serum testosterone and sex hormone binding globulin were measured, and free testosterone and bioavailable testosterone were calculated. MetS was determined according to the Adult Treatment Panel III (ATP-III) criteria.

Main Outcome Measures

Cardiovascular and other causes of mortality were obtained from the NHANES III-linked follow-up file through December 31, 2006. Multivariate Cox regression models were applied to assess associations of interest.

Results

Of 596 men included in the analysis, 187 men were found to have MetS. During a median follow-up of 15.6 years, 97 men died of cardiovascular causes (cardiovascular mortality rate: 9.84 and 5.77 per 1,000 person-years for those with and without MetS, respectively). Higher calculated bioavailable testosterone (CBT) was associated with a lower odds of MetS (odds ratio: 0.80 for each ng/mL, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.76–0.84, P < 0.001) and lower risk of cardiovascular mortality (hazard ratios [HRs]: 0.72 for each log ng/mL, 95% CI: 0.54–0.96, P = 0.03) in subjects with MetS. The influence of CBT was not observed in those without MetS (HR: 0.84 for each log ng/mL, 95% CI: 0.68–1.04, P = 0.10).

Conclusions

The combination of lower bioavailable testosterone and ATP-III-defined MetS is associated with an increased cardiovascular mortality in the men aged 40 years and above.
A search for HeH+ and CH in a high-redshift quasi-stellar object
Authors: Zinchenko I. , Dubrovich V. , Henkel C.
Published: June 2011

We performed a search simultaneously for the HeH+J = 1–0 line (νrest= 2010.183 873 GHz) and for the CH 2Π3/2(F2)J = 3/2–2Π1/2(F2)J = 1/2 lines (νrest≈ 2006.8 and 2010.8 GHz) towards one of the highest redshift quasars known, SDSS J114816.64+525150.3 (z = 6.4189). No clearly visible line was detected after obtaining an rms noise level of ∼0.4 mK (∼3 mJy) in 16-MHz (18 km s-1) channels. At a level of 2.9σ, however, there is a tentative emission feature shifted by about 100 km s-1 from the expected frequency of the HeH+ line. This shift is well within the width of the line profiles for CO and C+. The putative feature is about four times narrower than the previously detected CO and C+ lines. The difference in velocities as well as in the linewidths could be explained by quite different conditions required for the formation and excitation of HeH+ with respect to CO and C+. The HeH+ emission, if real, could probably arise in the dense ionized gas of this quasi-stellar object. The velocity-integrated flux in this tentative feature is 0.62 ± 0.21 Jy km s-1 which corresponds to a total luminosity of L(HeH+) ≈ 7.1 × 108 L⊙. As long as there is no independent confirmation, these values should be considered rather as upper limits.
RELATION BETWEEN PROTEIN CHARACTERISTICS AND TPA TEXTURE CHARACTERISTICS OF CRISP GRASS CARP (CTENOPHARYNGODON IDELLUS C. ET V) AND GRASS CARP (CTENOPHARYNGODON IDELLUS)
Authors: LIN WAN‐LING , ZENG QING‐XIAO , ZHU ZHI‐WEI , SONG GUO‐SHENG
Published: June 2011

This article focuses on the study of textural and protein characteristics of crisp grass carp (CGC) and grass carp (GC) fillets. The higher texture profile analysis (TPA) texture characteristics of CGC are related to a higher content of myofibrillar, sarcoplasmic, stromal proteins, sulfur amino acids and hydrophobic amino acids. Raman spectroscopy further revealed that the secondary and tertiary structural changes in the two fish meat proteins relate to the differences in TPA texture characteristics of the fillets. Lower α‐helix contents and higher β‐sheet contents are closely correlated to the special mastication properties of CGC fillets. More importantly, the disulfide bond content is another factor that affects the texture of CGC fillets. Furthermore, differential scanning calorimetry revealed that the special mastication properties of CGC fillets result from the greater stabilization afforded by proteins. Overall, the results show that the special texture characteristics of CGC fillet correlates positively with the protein characteristics found in fish muscle tissue.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Textural characteristics are an important quality for seafood products, which affects acceptability and mechanical processing of fillets. Crisp grass carps (CGCs), broadbean‐fed grass carp (GC), have special mastication. In previous studies, we have found that the differences of texture between both carp's muscles were highly significant. More importantly, the different texture correlated closely with their ultrastructures. Hence, CGC and GC muscles, as the objects for study, will be able to better reflect the relationship between texture and protein characteristics. The research aimed at revealing the mechanism of mastication in CGC muscle to resolve the mastication of CGC decreasing after freezing process.
LIPID‐ENRICHED EGG YOLK FRACTION AS INGREDIENT IN COSMETIC EMULSIONS
Authors: LACA AMANDA , PAREDES BENJAMÍN , DÍAZ MARIO
Published: June 2011

Owing to its specific characteristics, eggs are not only widely used in the food industry, but also in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. In this work, a new lipid‐enriched egg yolk fraction was evaluated as an ingredient in cosmetic cream formulations. Three formulations were prepared in the laboratory; two were formulated with the yolk fraction (fresh and lyophilized) and the other one was a control sample containing no egg yolk lipidic fraction. Rheological characteristics of creams were evaluated, as well as its microstructure and sensorial properties. In addition, color and particle size measurements at different times of storage were carried out to assess cream stability. According to the results, this egg yolk fraction showed to be a suitable ingredient in cosmetic cream formulations, not only without causing any drawback on cream characteristics, but also improving some of its properties and, specifically, supplying cream with higher consistency, stability and resistance to temperature stress.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Each constituent of yolk possesses special physical and chemical characteristics. Thus, yolk represents a major source of active principles usable in medical, pharmaceutical, cosmetic and biotechnological industries. In this work, an egg yolk fraction was tested as an ingredient in cosmetic cream formulations. Despite its interesting composition and functional properties, no applications have been developed for this fraction until now. According to the results, this lipid‐enriched fraction could be a potential ingredient in cosmetic cream manufacturing.
Management of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) by the family nurse practitioner: A timeline for anticipated referrals
Authors: Davis Melanie , Lou Jau‐Shin
Published: June 2011

Purpose: This article reviews characteristics of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and appropriate timing of referrals by the nurse practitioner (NP).

Data sources: Selected research and clinical articles.

Conclusion: Management of patients with ALS by the NP requires anticipation of needed referrals based on symptom assessment and knowledge of the common timeline of ALS progression. Close collaboration with specialists such as neurologists, pulmonologists, and a palliative care team provides patients and families with much needed support and improves outcomes.

Implications for practice: Anticipating and initiating appropriate and timely referrals for patients with ALS may improve quality of life for patients with this devastating condition.
Maternal outcomes among pregnant women receiving live attenuated influenza vaccine
Authors: Toback Seth L. , Beigi Richard , Tennis Patricia , Sifakis Frangiscos , Calingaert Brian , Ambrose Christopher S.
Published: June 2011

Please cite this paper as: Toback et al. (2012) Maternal outcomes among pregnant women receiving live attenuated influenza accine. Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses 6(1), 44–51.

Background  Although the live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV) prescribing information contains warnings/precautions against use during pregnancy, administration of LAIV to pregnant women does occur. Data regarding maternal outcomes after LAIV administration during pregnancy are limited.

Objectives  Maternal outcomes after LAIV vaccination during pregnancy were examined.

Methods  Data from a health insurance claims database that covers approximately 50 million individuals were analyzed for the six influenza seasons from 2003–2004 through 2008–2009. Emergency department (ED) visits and hospitalizations occurring within 42 days of vaccination were analyzed by primary diagnosis; outcomes were categorized as cardiopulmonary, obstetric, and other. Cohort characteristics were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results  Of 834 999 pregnancies identified, 138 (0·017%) were among women who received LAIV vaccinations. Of the 138 pregnant women, 13% were ≤19 years, 67% were 20–34 years, and 20% were ≥35 years of age. Eight events occurred within 42 days of vaccination: one ED visit for bronchitis, two hospitalizations for hyperemesis gravidarum and premature labor, and five ED visits/hospitalizations for common medical conditions. All outcomes identified after LAIV exposure occurred at rates similar to rates in unvaccinated pregnant women reported in the medical literature.

Conclusions  Administration of LAIV to pregnant women is rare; the rate has remained constant since 2004–2005. In this cohort, there was no evidence of significant maternal adverse outcomes after receipt of LAIV. These data may offer some reassurance to providers and pregnant women in the event of inadvertent LAIV administration, but do not support the routine use of LAIV in pregnant women.
Bee diversity in scrub oak patches 2 years after mow and herbicide treatment
Authors: BRIED JASON T. , DILLON AMANDA M.
Published: June 2011

1. Little is known about the diversity and land management response of native solitary bees in globally rare barrens restricted to the northeastern United States. Herein we assess solitary bee diversity in a scrub oak barrens 2 years after a mow and herbicide treatment.

2. Standard bowl‐trap and sweep‐net surveys were repeated six times during June–August in four treated scrub oak patches and a nearby untreated scrub oak patch.

3. Bee richness and total abundance (all specimens) did not differ appreciably between the treated and untreated scrub oak. However, analysis of species composition and abundances while controlling for seasonality suggested a treatment effect.

4. Increased apparentness of nectar resources and sandy areas post‐treatment may have favoured sand specialist and oligolectic bee species.

5. Although not a surrogate for fire, we expect mow and herbicide treatment to delay the return of closed‐canopy thicket, lower the costs of prescribed fire maintenance, and allow bee communities’ greater recovery time.
New Hormaphididae (Hemiptera, Aphidomorpha) from the Baltic Amber and its Palaeogeographic Significance
Authors: WEGJEREK Piotr , ŻYŁA Dagmara
Published: June 2011

The present study describes a new genus and species Unicohormaphis sorini, which belongs to the subfamily Cerataphidinae. The contemporary distribution of aphids belonging to the Hormaphididae family is summarized and analyzed. According to the obtained data, the climate warming in Eocene was conducive to the expansion of the family over the areas of Europe. Subsequent climate changes, resulting from epeirogenic and orogenic movements towards the end of Eocene, led to a considerable cooling and drying of climate in the northern hemisphere. These processes contributed to the shrinking down of areas covered by subtropical forests, which constituted the habitat of Hormaphididae (Cerataphidinae). Retaining their way of life, the Cerataphidinae were forced to limit their distribution, and the representatives of the family in Europe became completely extinct.