bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Priorities, Resource Stocks, and Performance in Family and Nonfamily Firms
Authors: Chrisman James J. , Chua Jess H. , Kellermanns Franz
Published: April 2009

This article discusses how the performance of family firms and nonfamily firms might differ as a result of the different priorities flowing from family influence, even when the two types of firms possess comparable levels of resource stocks. Using hierarchical regression to analyze data from a national study of the Small Business Development Center program, we find that family influence has both a positive and a negative moderating effect on the relationships between different categories of resource stocks and performance. Specifically, family firms benefit more from resource stocks based on external relationships while nonfamily firms benefit more from resource stocks based on functional skills.
Awarding Entrepreneurship Research: A Presentation of the Global Award
Authors: Braunerhjelm Pontus , Henrekson Magnus
Published: April 2009

On January 29, 2009, professor Scott A. Shane, Case Western Reserve University (Cleveland, Ohio), became the first recipient of the Global Award for Entrepreneurship Research, an upgrade of the previous award given annually since 1996, and since then firmly established as the leading prize for outstanding research contributions in the area. The objective of this essay is to present the background to and the organizations behind the award; to describe how candidates are nominated, evaluated, and selected; and to give a clear account of the criteria that guide the Prize Committee in their selection of award winners.
Assessment of Atrial Electromechanical Coupling Characteristics in Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis
Authors: Acar Gurkan , Sayarlioglu Mehmet , Akcay Ahmet , Sokmen Abdullah , Sokmen Gulizar , Altun Burak , Nacar Alper Bugra , Gunduz Mehmet , Tuncer Cemal
Published: April 2009

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate atrial conduction abnormalities obtained by Doppler tissue imaging (DTI) and electrocardiogram analysis in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) patients. Methods: A total of 40 patients with AS (22 males /18 females, 37.82 ± 10.22 years), and 42 controls (22 males/20 females, 35.74 ± 9.98 years) were included. Systolic and diastolic left ventricular (LV) functions were measured by using conventional echocardiography and DTI. Interatrial and intraatrial electromechanical coupling (PA) intervals were measured with DTI. P‐wave dispersion (PD) was calculated from the 12‐lead electrocardiogram. Results: Atrial electromechanical coupling at the left lateral mitral annulus (PA lateral) was significantly delayed in AS patients (61.65 ± 7.81 vs 53.69 ± 6.75 ms, P < 0.0001). Interatrial (PA lateral – PA tricuspid), intraatrial electromechanical coupling intervals (PA septum – PA tricuspid), maximum P‐wave (Pmax) duration, and PD were significantly longer in AS patients (23.50 ± 7.08 vs 14.76 ± 5.69 ms, P < 0.0001; 5.08 ± 5.24 vs 2.12 ± 2.09 ms, P = 0.001; 103.85 ± 6.10 vs 97.52 ± 6.79 ms, P < 0.0001; and 48.65 ± 6.17 vs 40.98 ± 5.37 ms, P < 0.0001, respectively). Reflecting LV diastolic function mitral A‐wave and E/A, mitral E‐wave deceleration time (DT), Am and Em/Am were significantly different between the groups (P < 0.05). We found a significant correlation between interatrial electromechanical coupling interval with PD (r = 0.536, P < 0.01). Interatrial electromechanical coupling interval was positively correlated with DT (r = 0.422, P < 0.01) and inversely correlated with E/A (r =−0.263, P < 0.05) and Em/Am (r =−0.263, P < 0.05). Conclusion: This study shows that atrial electromechanical coupling intervals and PD are delayed, and LV diastolic functions are impaired in AS patients.
Widespread Policy Disruption: Terrorism, Public Risks, and Homeland Security
Authors: May Peter J. , Sapotichne Joshua , Workman Samuel
Published: April 2009

We address theoretical and empirical aspects of policy disruptions that affect multiple areas of policymaking. Our theorizing leads us to consider the effects of widespread disruptions in gaining the attention of elected officials, in affecting policymaking, and in reshaping the involvement of federal agencies. Our empirical analyses concern the threat of terrorism in the United States and its implications for public risk subsystems over the past 25 years. Our analyses of the attention of policymakers and resultant policymaking volatility show selective patterns of subsystem disruption related to the threat of terrorism. We show that capturing the attention of policymakers in multiple subsystems is insufficient to motivate heightened levels of policymaking across the board. In addition, we find more muted impacts for federal agency involvement than might have been expected from the massive reorganization that created the Department of Homeland Security. More generally, the disjunctions we observe show the powerful influence of policy subsystems in buffering against widespread policy disruptions.
Private Conflict and Policy Passage: Interest‐Group Conflict and State Medical Malpractice Reform
Authors: Yackee Susan Webb
Published: April 2009

James Madison argued in Federalist 10 that “rival political factions” work against the public good. In contrast to Madison's pessimistic account, I suggest that factional conflict can lead to more representative public policy, and thus further the will of the people. I theorize that elected officials often seek a safe political position—one that corresponds to the preferences of the public at large—during periods of high conflict. I assess this theory in one, salient policy area, medical malpractice. I measure conflict with contributions for state candidates given by (i) the health and insurance industries, which generally support malpractice laws, and (ii) lawyers, who frequently oppose the laws. I find that group conflict matters to policy outcomes. I also find evidence that, under conditions of elevated conflict, adopted policies are more likely to move toward the general ideological preferences of the public at large. These results suggest that group conflict affects both the quantity and character of policy in the American states.
Framing Reparations
Authors: Craemer Thomas
Published: April 2009

Since the enactment of reparations for Japanese American World War II internees in the early 1990s, the public debate on slavery reparations has gained momentum. Recently, a number of states and the U.S. House of Representatives have issued formal apologies for slavery. In light of this debate, it may be important for policymakers, as well as policy researchers, to better understand public opinion on this issue. At present, not much is known other than that most Americans oppose reparations. However, public opinion surveys yield widely varying population estimates. These differences may represent random error by an uninformed public or they may reflect complex considerations about “who” should be compensated “by whom” in “what form” and “for what” injustice. Using the results of a nationally representative question wording experiment (n = 2,001) this article investigates whether opposition to slavery reparations is unqualified, or whether it depends on the specific policy design. Since data collection was completed before Virginia became the first state to apologize for slavery in February 2007, the study offers a window into the formation of public opinion prior to elite policy enactment. Results suggest that the public carefully distinguishes between different reparations proposals and that policymakers, as well as policy researchers, may have to be very specific when addressing an issue of this complexity.
Barriers to Co‐Governance: Examining the “Chemistry” of Home‐Care Networks in Germany, England, and Quebec
Authors: Bode Ingo , Firbank Oscar
Published: April 2009

This article aims at studying the dynamics of organized home care and particular problems in the delivery of social services, analyzed against the background of the international recasting of welfare systems. Challenging an influential academic discourse on the advent of new forms of network governance thought to improve service provision, three jurisdictions—Germany, England, and Quebec—are compared with regard to how home‐care networks are actually configured and the rationales which appear to shape the interaction between network members. The article argues that notwithstanding the extensive literature extolling the virtues of network governance or the possibility of reconciling different governance modes, home care operates through arrangements embracing conflicting rationales. Rather than providing for mutual adjustment and shared perspectives, contemporary home‐care networks tend to produce tensions and outcome problems as a result of the “biased” interplay between various steering rationales within given institutional arrangements and different meta‐governance regimes.
Perceived Organizational Support as a Moderator of Emotional Labor/Outcomes Relationships
Authors: Duke Allison B. , Goodman Joseph M. , Treadway Darren C. , Breland Jacob W.
Published: April 2009

The current study investigates the interactive effects of perceptions of organizational support on 2 emotional labor outcomes: job satisfaction and job performance. A sample of 2 retail service firms (n = 338) supported the moderating effect of perceived organizational support (POS) on the emotional labor/outcomes relationships. POS attenuated the negative effects of the emotional labor/job satisfaction and emotional labor/performance relationships. Implications of these results, strengths and limitations of the current study, and directions for future research are discussed.
Using Public Service Announcements to Change Behavior: No More Money and Oil Down the Drain1
Authors: Nolan Jessica M. , Schultz P. Wesley , Knowles Eric S.
Published: April 2009

Radio and television offer promising media for addressing large‐scale social problems. Unfortunately, very few mass‐media messages have utilized social psychological theories of persuasion and influence. This article summarizes 2 studies that evaluated the effectiveness of a state‐sponsored public service announcement aimed at reducing improper disposal of used motor oil among do‐it‐yourself oil changers. Study 1 was a field experiment with 120 oil changers in San Diego County. Inertial resistance and low perceived behavioral control were identified as obstacles to proper disposal. In Study 2, we used the disrupt‐then‐reframe technique to successfully overcome these obstacles and promote proper disposal of used oil. The results underscore the usefulness of empirically validated persuasion techniques in changing behavior via mass media.
CXC and CC chemokines induced in human renal epithelial cells by inflammatory cytokines
Authors: THORBURN (NEE KRASNA) ELISKA , KOLESAR LIBOR , BRABCOVA EVA , PETRICKOVA KATERINA , PETRICEK MIROSLAV , JARESOVA MARCELA , SLAVCEV ANTONIJ , STRIZ ILJA
Published: April 2009

Human renal epithelial cells might play an important role during the allograft rejection by producing chemokines in response to proinflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α and interleukin (IL)‐1β produced by endothelial and epithelial cells early after transplantation. The production of chemokines allows inflammatory cells to be drawn into the kidney graft and therefore plays a critical role in the pathophysiologic processes that lead to the rejection of renal transplant. In this process, two chemokine superfamilies, the CC and the CXC chemokines, are the most important. The CC chemokines target mainly monocytes and T lymphocytes, while most of the CXC chemokines attract neutrophils. We showed in our study that in vitro, in unstimulated cells, basal mRNA expression of CXC chemokines (Groα, Groβ, Groγ, ENA‐78 and GCP‐2, IL‐8) that attract neutrophils was detectable and expression of these genes and chemokine release were increased in TNF‐α‐ and IL‐1β‐induced renal epithelial cells. Most of the CC chemokines [monocyte chemotactic protein‐1 (MCP‐1), macrophage Inflammatory protein 1 beta (MIP‐1β), regulated upon activation, normal T cell expressed and secreted (RANTES) and macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP‐3α)] showed detectable mRNA expression only after stimulation with proinflammatory cytokines and not in control cells. TNF‐α seems to induce preferably the expression of RANTES, MCP‐1, interferon‐inducible protein (IP‐10) and Interferon‐Inducible T‐cell Alpha Chemoattractant (I‐TAC), while IL‐1β induces mainly IL‐8 and epithelial neutrophil‐activating peptide 78 (ENA‐78).
Role of acetylation and charge in antimicrobial peptides based on human β‐defensin‐3
Authors: PAPANASTASIOU EMILIOS ANDREW , HUA QUYEN , SANDOUK ALINE , SON U HYON , CHRISTENSON ANDREW JAMES , VAN HOEK MONIQUE LOUISE , BISHOP BARNEY MICHAEL
Published: April 2009

Cationic antimicrobial peptides are an evolutionarily ancient and essential element of innate immunity in higher organisms. The precise mechanism by which these peptides exert their antimicrobial activity on bacteria is not well understood. Decapeptides based on the C‐terminus of human β‐defensin‐3 were designed and evaluated to study the role of charge in defining the antimicrobial activity and selectivity of these peptides againstEscherichia coli. Acetylated derivatives of these peptides were prepared in order to further evaluate how positively charged primary amines contribute to potency in these small antimicrobial peptides. These peptides enabled us to explore the relationship between net charge, charge distribution and antimicrobial activity. While the results indicate that net charge is a major factor in antimicrobial activity in these peptides, the actual relationship between charge and potency appears to be more complex.
Rey Visual Design Learning Test performance correlates with white matter structure
Authors: Begré Stefan , Kiefer Claus , von Känel Roland , Frommer Angela , Federspiel Andrea
Published: April 2009

Objective:

Studies exploring relation of visual memory to white matter are extensively lacking. The Rey Visual Design Learning Test (RVDLT) is an elementary motion, colour and word independent visual memory test. It avoids a significant contribution from as many additional higher order visual brain functions as possible to visual performance, such as three-dimensional, colour, motion or word-dependent brain operations. Based on previous results, we hypothesised that test performance would be related with white matter of dorsal hippocampal commissure, corpus callosum, posterior cingulate, superior longitudinal fascicle and internal capsule.

Methods:

In 14 healthy subjects, we measured intervoxel coherence (IC) by diffusion tensor imaging as an indication of connectivity and visual memory performance measured by the RVDLT. IC considers the orientation of the adjacent voxels and has a better signal-to-noise ratio than the commonly used fractional anisotropy index.

Results:

Using voxelwise linear regression analyses of the IC values, we found a significant and direct relationship between 11 clusters and visual memory test performance. The fact that memory performance correlated with white matter structure in left and right dorsal hippocampal commissure, left and right posterior cingulate, right callosal splenium, left and right superior longitudinal fascicle, right medial orbitofrontal region, left anterior cingulate, and left and right anterior limb of internal capsule emphasises our hypothesis.

Conclusion:

Our observations in healthy subjects suggest that individual differences in brain function related to the performance of a task of higher cognitive demands might partially be associated with structural variation of white matter regions.
Pleuropulmonary complications of PVL‐positive Staphylococcus aureus infection in children
Authors: Thomas Biju , Pugalenthi Arun , Chilvers Mark
Published: April 2009

It is increasingly recognized world‐wide that Panton‐Valentine leukocidin (PVL)‐positive Staphylococcus aureus (PVL‐SA) is associated with a highly aggressive and often fatal form of community‐acquired pneumonia. We report four children who presented with severe pleuropulmonary complications due to infection by community‐acquired methicillin‐sensitive S. aureus (CA‐MSSA), producing PVL toxin. The complications included bilateral multilobular infiltrates, pneumatocoeles, recurrent pneumothoraces, pleural effusion, empyema, lung abscess and diaphragmatic paralysis. This case series highlights the diverse pleuropulmonary manifestations of this potentially lethal infection and the importance of heightened awareness, early recognition and aggressive therapy.

Conclusion:  Complicated pneumonia in a previously fit young patient with a history of preceding ‘flu‐like’ illness or skin/soft tissue infection should raise the suspicion of infection by PVL‐positive Staphylococcus aureus (PVL‐SA). Severe pleuropulmonary complications are a feature of this disease.
Initial Stability of Two Dental Implant Systems: Influence of Buccolingual Width and Probe Orientation on Resonance Frequency Measurements
Authors: Tözüm Tolga F. , Turkyilmaz Ilser , Bal Bilge Turhan
Published: April 2009

Background: Although many factors seem to have an impact on the resonance frequency (RF) values of implants, there is a lack of evidence about some other parameters, which may have an influence on implant stability.

Purpose: The aims of the study were to determine whether initial stability of a dental implant differs when the buccolingual width of the bone changes, to determine whether different orientations affect the RF measurements in the RF device, and to investigate two dental implants with different morphologies with regard to their initial stability.

Materials and Methods: Two implant systems (Tidal Spiral Dental Implant Systems, Huntsville, AL, USA, and MIS Seven, MIS Implants Technologies Ltd., Shlomi, Israel) with diameters of 3.75 mm and 4.2 mm and with a length of 13 mm were used. Following the insertion of implants, buccolingual thinning of the models was performed in 2‐mm increments ranging between 0 and 8 mm.

Results: A statistically significant decrease for implant stability quotient (ISQ) values was noticed for both diameters and both systems for all dimensional time points of the blocks (p < .05). The second system (more number of threads) resulted with higher ISQ values for both diameters than the first system (lower number of threads) (p < .001). The orientation of the probe influenced the measurements, where a standard orientation is advisable for the magnetic RF device.

Conclusion: Different implant surface geometries seem to behave in different patterns in terms of initial stability. Dimensional changes in buccolingual direction seem to have an impact on the initial stability, where wider implants also presented higher ISQ values than narrow ones.
Cholesterol Granuloma of the Maxillary Sinus Encountered during Floor Augmentation Procedure: A Case Report
Authors: Karaky Ashraf Abu , Sawair Faleh A. , Baqain Zaid H. , Hassona Yazan , Khraisat Ameen
Published: April 2009

Background: Cholesterol granuloma (CG) is a foreign‐body reaction to the deposition of cholesterol crystals. Its occurrence in the paranasal sinuses is very rare.

Purpose: This report describes a new case of maxillary sinus CG discovered incidentally during sinus‐floor augmentation for dental implant placement in a 60‐year‐old female patient.

Materials and Methods: The preoperative clinical and radiological examinations revealed a normal maxillary antrum with no evidence of sinus pathology. After lateral osteotomy, a dark‐green, viscous soft tissue mass appeared through the thin mucous membrane inside the sinus. Enucleation and curettage of the sinus contents including the sinus membrane were performed for histopathologic analysis. The augmentation and implant placement procedures were postponed.

Results: Histopathologic analysis showed several fragments of granulation tissue containing diffuse cholesterol clefts surrounded by mixed chronic inflammatory cell infiltrate including plasma cells and lymphocytes. These features were compatible with the diagnosis of CG. The patient was followed up for 3 months after the first procedure, and a second attempt of sinus augmentation and dental implant insertion was then carried out. The inserted dental implants were followed up for 6 months without any complications.

Conclusions: CG of maxillary sinus can be an incidental finding. For this reason, the final diagnosis can only be achieved after examination of the material under the microscope.
Precision of Fit to Implants: A Comparison of Cresco™ and Procera® Implant Bridge Frameworks
Authors: Hjalmarsson Lars , Örtorp Anders , Smedberg Jan‐Ivan , Jemt Torsten
Published: April 2009

Background: The Cresco™ (Astra Tech AB, Mölndal, Sweden) method aims to reduce the inevitable distortions when cast metal frameworks for implant‐supported prostheses are fabricated. However, limited data are available for the precision of fit for this method.

Purpose: To measure and compare the precision of fit of Cresco‐ and computer numeric controlled (CNC)‐milled metal frameworks for implant‐supported fixed complete prostheses.

Materials and Methods: Two groups of frameworks were fabricated according to the Cresco method, either in titanium (Cresco‐Ti, n = 10) or in a cobalt‐chrome alloy (Cresco‐CoCr, n = 10). A third group comprised CNC‐milled titanium frameworks (Procera® Implant Bridge [PIB], Nobel Biocare AB, Göteborg, Sweden), made from individual model/pattern measurements (PIB, n = 5). Measurements of fit were performed by means of a coordinate measuring machine linked to a computer. The collected data on distortions were analyzed.

Results: Overall, a maximal three‐dimensional range of center point distortion of 279 µm was observed for measured frameworks. The framework width (x‐axis) decreased for Cresco‐CoCr, but increased in Cresco‐Ti and PIB; Cresco‐CoCr compared to Cresco‐Ti (p = .0002) and Cresco‐CoCr compared to PIB (p < .0001). In vertical dimension (z‐axis), less distortions were present in PIB compared to Cresco‐CoCr (p = .0007) and in PIB compared to Cresco‐Ti (p < .0001).

Conclusions: None of the frameworks presented a perfect, completely “passive fit” to the master. Although the direction of distortions varied, the horizontal distortions were of similar magnitudes. However, the PIB frameworks had statistical significant less vertical distortions as compared to the Cresco groups.
Quantitation of Mandibular Ramus Volume as a Source of Bone Grafting
Authors: Verdugo Fernando , Simonian Krikor , McDonald Roberto Smith , Nowzari Hessam
Published: April 2009

Background: When alveolar atrophy impairs dental implant placement, ridge augmentation using mandibular ramus graft may be considered. In live patients, however, an accurate calculation of the amount of bone that can be safely harvested from the ramus has not been reported. The use of a software program to perform these calculations can aid in preventing surgical complications.

Purpose: The aim of the present study was to intra‐surgically quantify the volume of the ramus bone graft that can be safely harvested in live patients, and compare it to presurgical computerized tomographic calculations.

Materials and Methods: The AutoCAD® software program quantified ramus bone graft in 40 consecutive patients from computerized tomographies. Direct intra‐surgical measurements were recorded thereafter and compared to software data (n = 10). In these 10 patients, the bone volume was also measured at the recipient sites 6 months post‐sinus augmentation.

Results: The mandibular second and third molar areas provided the thickest cortical graft averaging 2.8 ± 0.6 mm. The thinnest bone was immediately posterior to the third molar (1.9 ± 0.3 mm). The volume of ramus bone graft measured by AutoCAD averaged 0.8 mL (standard deviation [SD] 0.2 mL, range: 0.4–1.2 mL). The volume of bone graft measured intra‐surgically averaged 2.5 mL (SD 0.4 mL, range: 1.8–3.0 mL). The difference between the two measurement methods was significant (p < 0.001). The bone volume measured 6 months post‐sinus augmentation averaged 2.2 mL (SD 0.4 mL, range: 1.6–2.8 mL) with a mean loss of 0.3 mL in volume.

Conclusion: The mandibular second molar area provided the thickest cortical graft. A cortical plate of 2.8 mm in average at combined second and third molar areas provided 2.5 mL particulated volume. The use of a design software program can improve surgical treatment planning prior to ramus bone grafting. The AutoCAD software program did not overestimate the volume of bone that can be safely harvested from the mandibular ramus.
Histomorphometric Evaluation of Bioceramic Molecular Impregnated and Dual Acid‐Etched Implant Surfaces in the Human Posterior Maxilla
Authors: Shibli Jamil Awad , Grassi Sauro , Piattelli Adriano , Pecora Gabriele E. , Ferrari Daniel S. , Onuma Tatiana , D'Avila Susana , Coelho Paulo G. , Barros Raquel , Iezzi Giovanna
Published: April 2009

Background: Physical and bioceramic incorporation surface treatments at the nanometer scale showed higher means of bone‐to‐implant contact (BIC) and torque values compared with surface topography at the micrometer scale; however, the literature concerning the effect of nanometer scale parameters is sparse.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of two different implant surfaces on the percentage bone‐to‐implant contact (BIC%) and bone osteocyte density in the human posterior maxilla after 2 months of unloaded healing.

Materials and Methods: The implants utilized presented dual acid‐etched (DAE) surface and a bioceramic molecular impregnated treatment (Ossean®, Intra‐Lock International, Boca Raton, FL, USA) serving as control and test, respectively. Ten subjects (59 ± 9 years of age) received two implants (one of each surface) during conventional implant surgery in the posterior maxilla. After the non‐loaded period of 2 months, the implants and the surrounding tissue were removed by means of a trephine and were non‐decalcified processed for ground sectioning and analysis of BIC%, bone density in threaded area (BA%), and osteocyte index (Oi).

Results: Two DAE implants were found to be clinically unstable at time of retrieval. Histometric evaluation showed significantly higher BIC% and Oi for the test compared to the control surface (p < .05), and that BA% was not significantly different between groups. Wilcoxon matched pairs test was used to compare the differences of histomorphometric variables between implant surfaces. The significance test was conducted at a 5% level of significance.

Conclusion: The histological data suggest that the bioceramic molecular impregnated surface‐treated implants positively modulated bone healing at early implantation times compared to the DAE surface.
Accidental Displacement of Dental Implants into the Maxillary Sinus: A Report of Nine Cases
Authors: Ridaura‐Ruiz Lourdes , Figueiredo Rui , Guinot‐Moya Rosa , Piñera‐Penalva Manuel , Sanchez‐Garcés Maria Angeles , Valmaseda‐Castellón Eduard , Gay‐Escoda Cosme
Published: April 2009

Purpose: To report on the clinical, radiological, and anatomical features of patients suffering accidental displacement of dental implants into the maxillary sinus.

Materials and Methods: A retrospective observational study of nine cases of dental implant displacement into the maxillary sinus was made. Data concerning patients' features, diagnostic criteria, and treatment performed were collected.

Results: Mean patient age was 56.7 years, and men predominated (6 : 3). Implant displacement was diagnosed in all cases by clinical and radiological examination. In seven patients, the implant was surgically removed without complications. Only three patients reported sinus symptoms following displacement.

Conclusions: The displacement of implants into the maxillary sinus is usually related with a poor surgical planning or inadequate surgical technique. Because of the anatomy and physiology of the posterior area of the maxilla, it is essential to ensure good primary stability in order to avoid this complication. If the implant migrates into the maxillary sinus, it should be removed in order to avoid sinus pathology.
Transcript profiling reveals diverse roles of auxin‐responsive genes during reproductive development and abiotic stress in rice
Authors: Jain Mukesh , Khurana Jitendra P.
Published: April 2009

Auxin influences growth and development in plants by altering gene expression. Many auxin‐responsive genes have been characterized in Arabidopsis in detail, but not in crop plants. Earlier, we reported the identification and characterization of the members of the GH3, Aux/IAA and SAUR gene families in rice. In this study, whole genome microarray analysis of auxin‐responsive genes in rice was performed, with the aim of gaining some insight into the mechanism of auxin action. A comparison of expression profiles of untreated and auxin‐treated rice seedlings identified 315 probe sets representing 298 (225 upregulated and 73 downregulated) unique genes as auxin‐responsive. Functional categorization revealed that genes involved in various biological processes, including metabolism, transcription, signal transduction, and transport, are regulated by auxin. The expression profiles of auxin‐responsive genes identified in this study and those of the members of the GH3, Aux/IAA, SAUR and ARF gene families were analyzed during various stages of vegetative and reproductive (panicle and seed) development by employing microarray analysis. Many of these genes are, indeed, expressed in a tissue‐specific or developmental stage‐specific manner, and the expression profiles of some of the representative genes were confirmed by real‐time PCR. The differential expression of auxin‐responsive genes during various stages of panicle and seed development implies their involvement in diverse developmental processes. Moreover, several auxin‐responsive genes were differentially expressed under various abiotic stress conditions, indicating crosstalk between auxin and abiotic stress signaling.
Sexual Function in Men Treated for Testicular Cancer
Authors: Eberhard Jakob , Ståhl Olof , Cohn-Cedermark Gabriella , Cavallin-Ståhl Eva , Giwercman Yvonne , Rylander Lars , Eberhard-Gran Malin , Kvist Ulrik , Fugl-Meyer Kerstin S. , Giwercman Aleksander
Published: April 2009

Introduction

Testicular germ cell cancer (TGCC) patients may be at risk of developing sexual dysfunction after treatment.

Aim

The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of sexual dysfunctions in TGCC patients 3 to 5 years after treatment, and relate findings to biochemical hypogonadism, treatment intensity, and the expected prevalence in the Swedish male population.

Methods

A questionnaire study on 129 consecutive TGCC patients 3 to 5 years post-treatment was performed. Comparators were an age-matched nationally representative group of men (N = 916) included in a study on sexual life in Sweden.

Main Outcome Measures

Sexual functions (including erectile dysfunctional distress), time since last intercourse, sexual satisfaction, and experience of sexological treatment seeking were assessed using the same questions used in the epidemiological study on sexual life in Sweden. The findings in TGCC patients were correlated to biochemical signs of hypogonadism and type of oncological treatment: Surveillance, adjuvant chemotherapy, adjuvant radiotherapy, or standard doses of chemotherapy.

Results

A higher proportion of TGCC patients than comparators were likely to report low sexual desire (odds ratio [OR] 6.7 [95% confidence interval {CI} 2.1–21]) as well as erectile dysfunction (OR 3.8 [95% CI 1.4–10]). No significant differences were observed regarding erectile dysfunctional distress, change of desire over time, interest in sex, premature or delayed ejaculation, time since last intercourse, need for or receiving sexual advice, or sexual satisfaction. Hypogonadism did not predict erectile dysfunction (OR 1.1 [95% CI 0.26–4.5]) or low sexual desire (OR 1.2 [95% CI 0.11–14]). Treatment modality had no obvious impact on sexual function.

Conclusion

Men treated for testicular cancer had higher risk of having low sexual desire and erectile dysfunction 3 to 5 years after completion of therapy than comparators. These sexual dysfunctions were not significantly associated with treatment intensity or hypogonadism.
Hypogonadism, Decreased Sexual Desire, and Long-Term Depression in Middle-Aged Men
Authors: Hintikka Jukka , Niskanen Leo , Koivumaa-Honkanen Heli , Tolmunen Tommi , Honkalampi Kirsi , Lehto Soili M. , Viinamäki Heimo
Published: April 2009

Introduction

In middle-aged men, the associations between long-term depressive symptoms and circulating testosterone levels are poorly known, although it is known that testosterone levels decrease with age.

Methods

A health questionnaire was mailed to a population-based sample from the National Population Register in 1998, 1999, and 2001. Based on their self-reported mental symptoms, a total of 116 men were selected for clinical examination in 2005. Half of them had high and the others low levels of adverse mental symptoms in all three previous follow-ups. A structured clinical interview for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-IV was performed. Depressive symptoms were assessed with the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS). The Aging Males’ Symptoms scale was also compiled and testosterone levels were determined.

Results

In the entire study sample, serum free testosterone levels correlated negatively with both BDI and HDRS scores. In the hypogonadism group (based on free testosterone, 19.8% of the sample), clinically significant depression (BDI score ≥ 13) was more than three times as frequent as in the other men (34.8% vs. 10.4%), the odds ratio after multiple adjustments being 4.98 (95% confidence interval 1.66–14.95). A decrease in sexual desire was common in hypogonadism (36%). Nevertheless, it also associated with clinically significant depression, irrespective of free testosterone levels.

Discussion

Long-term and current depressive symptoms, a decreased sexual desire, and low serum free testosterone levels are associated in middle-aged men. Hypogonadism per se and as a cause of decreased sexual desire may be a contributory and possibly treatable factor underlying male depression.

Conclusions

The findings highlight the need for hormonal status assessment in middle-aged depressive men.
Metrics for Evaluation of Age-Related Changes in Erectile Capacity in a Rodent Model
Authors: Zhao Weixin , Sato Yoshikazu , Melman Arnold , Andersson Karl-Erik , Christ George
Published: April 2009

Introduction

Stimulation of the cavernous nerve elicits increases in intracavernosal pressure (ICP) and visible penile erection (VPE) in rats. The observed penile erection can be characterized by the change in ICP and the ratio of ICP over blood pressure (BP; systemic blood pressure).

Aim

We evaluated correlations between ICP, BP, ICP/BP, and VPE, and the magnitude of the nerve stimulation required to elicit those responses in order to evaluate age-related changes in erectile function in a rodent model.

Methods

Nine young (3 months) and 10 old (18 months) rats were used. Under anesthesia cavernous nerve stimulation was performed at stimulation strengths ranging from 0.1 to 10 mA.

Main Outcome Measures

The ICP, BP, ICP/BP, and VPE responses to cavernous nerve stimulation were quantified and compared.

Results

Significant correlations were observed between ICP and ICP/BP in both young (r2 = 0.886) and old (r2 = 0.962) rats. If the ratio ICP/BP was taken as a metric of VPE and non-erection, then the threshold value for observing a VPE in the majority of animals was ≥0.5 in both young and old rats. However, higher current stimulation was required in the old than in the young animals to achieve erections. Moreover, both the maximal ICP and ICP/BP ratios achieved during erection were also lower in the old (85 ± 2 cmH2O and 0.6 ± 0.02, respectively) than young (106 ± 3 cmH2O and 0.75 ± 0.02, respectively) rats (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Old rats without obvious comorbidities were capable of penile erections, but those erections were accompanied by reduced ICP responses to cavernous nerve stimulation, implying apparently reduced penile rigidity. Taken together our current observations indicate that ICP, ICP/BP, and VPE provide useful metrics/indices of erectile capacity/function, and, moreover, that improved understanding of the inter-relationships among these parameters provides a frame work for further exploration of the mechanistic basis for age-related erectile dysfunction.
Satisfaction (Sexual, Life, Relationship, and Mental Health) Is Associated Directly with Penile–Vaginal Intercourse, but Inversely with Other Sexual Behavior Frequencies
Authors: Brody Stuart , Costa Rui Miguel
Published: April 2009

Introduction

Some sex therapists and educators assume that many sexual behaviors provide comparable sexual satisfaction. Evidence is required to determine whether sexual behaviors differ in their associations with both sexual satisfaction and satisfaction with other aspects of life.

Aims

To test the hypothesis that satisfaction with sex life, life in general, sexual partnership, and mental health correlates directly with frequency of penile–vaginal intercourse (PVI) and inversely with frequency of both masturbation and partnered sexual activity excluding PVI (noncoital sex).

Methods

A representative sample of 2,810 Swedes reported frequency of PVI, noncoital sex, and masturbation during the past 30 days, and degree of satisfaction with their sex life, life in general, partnership, and mental health.

Main Outcome Measures

Multivariate analyses (for the sexes separately and combined) considering the different satisfaction parameters as dependent variables, and the different types of sexual activities (and age) as putative predictors.

Results

For both sexes, multivariate analyses revealed that PVI frequency was directly associated with all satisfaction measures (part correlation = 0.50 with sexual satisfaction), masturbation frequency was independently inversely associated with almost all satisfaction measures, and noncoital sex frequencies independently inversely associated with some satisfaction measures (and uncorrelated with the rest). Age did not confound the results.

Conclusions

The results are consistent with evidence that specifically PVI frequency, rather than other sexual activities, is associated with sexual satisfaction, health, and well-being. Inverse associations between satisfaction and masturbation are not due simply to insufficient PVI.
A Prospective Study of Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy: Pain and Psychosexual Outcomes in Provoked Vestibulodynia
Authors: Goldfinger Corrie , Pukall Caroline F. , Gentilcore-Saulnier Evelyne , McLean Linda , Chamberlain Susan
Published: April 2009

Introduction

Research suggests that increased tension in the pelvic floor muscles of women with provoked vestibulodynia (PVD, the most common form of chronic vulvar pain) may play an important role in maintaining and exacerbating their pain. However, no prospective studies of pelvic floor physical therapy (PFPT) for PVD have been carried out.

Aim

This study prospectively examined the effectiveness of a PFPT intervention in treating the pain and sexual and psychological components of PVD, and determined predictors of greater treatment success.

Methods

Thirteen women with PVD completed eight sessions of PFPT. Participants were assessed at pre- and post-treatment via gynecological examinations, vestibular pain threshold testing, structured interviews, and standardized questionnaires. A 3-month follow-up interview assessed any further changes.

Main Outcome Measures

Outcome measures included: vestibular pain thresholds, gynecological examination and intercourse pain ratings, sexual function and intercourse frequency, mental health, negative pain cognitions, and success rates.

Results

Following treatment, participants had significantly higher vestibular pain thresholds and significantly lower pain ratings during the gynecological examination. Participants reported significant reductions in pain intensity during intercourse and were able to engage in significantly more pain-free activities. Although overall sexual function significantly improved, various components of sexual function and frequency of intercourse did not. Participants’ mental health did not significantly improve; however, pain catastrophizing and pain-related anxiety significantly decreased. The treatment was considered to be successful for 10 of the 13 participants, and predictors of greater treatment success included greater reductions in helplessness and a longer period of time in treatment.

Conclusions

Results provide preliminary support for the effectiveness of PFPT in treating the pain of PVD, as well as some of the sexual and cognitive correlates of PVD. The results also indicate the need for large-scale, randomized studies of the effectiveness of PFPT in comparison and in conjunction with other treatment options.
PERCEPTION OF FRUITY AND VEGETATIVE AROMAS IN RED WINE
Authors: HEIN KAREN , EBELER SUSAN E. , HEYMANN HILDEGARDE
Published: April 2009

Red wine descriptive analyses often produce principal component analysis maps where the first dimension is a dichotomy of vegetative and fruity aromas. Whether the trend is due to actual flavor differences among wines, or is a function of masking of the component aromas has not been investigated. Descriptive analysis was performed on wines spiked with bell pepper, mint, corn, raspberry, strawberry and “berry” aromas as well as with combinations of these. A consensus trained panel evaluated wines in triplicate. Canonical variate analysis showed that wines spiked with either bell pepper or fruit were separated on the fruit/bell pepper continuum. Wines spiked with combinations of fruit and bell pepper had less intense in bell pepper aroma, even though the amount added did not change. These results indicate that a masking effect of vegetative aromas by fruit aromas occurred.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Knowing that bell pepper aromas, which are often not desired in Cabernet Sauvignon wines, are masked by fruity aromas allow winemakers to blend “out” the perceived vegetative aromas with wines that are more fruity. This could lead to better consumer acceptance of these wines.
Testicular Gonadotropin‐releasing Hormone Activity, Progression of Spermatogenesis, and Sperm Transport in Vertebrates
Authors: Pierantoni Riccardo , Cobellis Gilda , Meccariello Rosaria , Cacciola Giovanna , Chianese Rosanna , Chioccarelli Teresa , Fasano Silvia
Published: April 2009

Since the end of the 1970s, studies have shown that, besides the endocrine route, a chemical mediator may also act through autocrine and/or paracrine mechanisms. This has opened new frontiers for research as a result of a redefinition of what endocrinology represents. Apart from androgens within the male gonad, testicular gonadotropin‐releasing hormone, estrogens, molecular chaperones, proto‐oncogenes, and, very recently, the endocannabinoid system have been shown to play important roles. Their activities to regulate spermatogenesis, including spermiogenesis and sperm maturation, will be discussed from the comparative viewpoint to describe adaptive phenomena and to speculate on evolution.
Diurnal Changes in the Synthesis of the Neurosteroid 7α‐Hydroxypregnenolone Stimulating Locomotor Activity in Newts
Authors: Koyama Teppei , Haraguchi Shogo , Vaudry Hubert , Tsutsui Kazuyoshi
Published: April 2009

We recently identified 7α‐hydroxypregnenolone as a novel amphibian neurosteroid stimulating locomotor activity in newts. Because male newts show marked diurnal changes in locomotor activity, we hypothesized that 7α‐hydroxypregnenolone may be a key factor for the induction of diurnal changes in locomotor activity in male newts. In this study, we found diurnal changes in 7α‐hydroxypregnenolone synthesis in the brain of male newts, which paralleled locomotor activity. Interestingly, the production of 7α‐hydroxypregnenolone in the male newt brain increased during the dark phase when locomotor activity of males was high.
Comparative Aspects of Endogenous Morphine Synthesis and Signaling in Animals
Authors: Zhu Wei , Stefano George B.
Published: April 2009

For many years it has been believed that animals cannot make morphine. However, within the last 30 years scientific documents have emerged reporting on endogenous animal opiate synthesis, including morphine biosynthesis in animals and specific tissues. These data are complemented by other reports demonstrating the presence of opiate receptors specifically used for morphinergic signaling in animal tissues, bringing together the lock‐and‐key concept for an animal morphine chemical messenger hypothesis.
Identification of New Members of the (Short) Neuropeptide F Family in Locusts and Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Clynen Elke , Husson Steven J. , Schoofs Liliane
Published: April 2009

Both the long and short neuropeptides F (NPF) represent important families of invertebrate neuropeptides that have been implicated in the regulation of reproduction and feeding behavior. In the present study, two short NPFs (SNRSPSL/IRL/IRFamide and SPSL/IRL/IRFamide) were de novo sequenced by mass spectrometry in two major pest insects, the desert locust Schistocerca gregaria and the African migratory locust Locusta migratoria. They are two of the most widespread peptides in the locust neuroendocrine system. A peptide that was previously reported to accelerate egg development in S. gregaria is shown to represent a truncated form of long NPF. This peptide is most likely derived by a novel processing mechanism involving cleavage at RY. In addition, an NPF peptide from the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans was isolated and sequenced by tandem mass spectrometry.
Peptides of the Adipokinetic Hormone/Red Pigment‐Concentrating Hormone Family
Authors: Gäde Gerd
Published: April 2009

Peptides of the adipokinetic hormone (AKH)/red pigment‐concentrating hormone (RPCH) family in insects are involved in the mobilization of stored macromolecules in the fat body by activating glycogen phosphorylase or triacylglycerol lipase to increase the levels of circulating metabolites (trehalose, diacylglycerols, and also proline) during periods of intense muscular activity. Here I review the biodiversity of these peptides and outline how the 47 known bioanalogues are distributed between the different insect orders and in which species they occur.
Effects of Xenoestrogens on the Differentiation of Behaviorally Relevant Neural Circuits in Higher Vertebrates
Authors: Panzica G. C. , Mura E. , Miceli D. , Martini M. A. , Gotti S. , Viglietti‐Panzica C.
Published: April 2009

Several environmental chemicals have the capability of impacting endocrine function (endocrine disrupting chemicals [EDCs]), and therefore they may have long‐term consequences, especially if exposure occurs during embryonic development. In this study we present data relative to two widely used animal models: the Japanese quail and the mouse. These two species have been used to understand neural, neuroendocrine, and behavioral components of reproduction and are optimal models to understand how these components are altered by precocious exposure to EDCs. In particular, we discuss the effects of embryonic exposure to diethylstilbestrol, genistein, or ethylene,1,1‐dichloro‐2,2‐bis(p‐chlorophenyl) on the sexually dimorphic parvocellular vasotocin system and male copulatory behavior in quail and the effects of bisphenol A on the nitrinergic and kisspeptin systems and their behavioral impact in the mouse. In both models the exposure to EDCs during the critical period (early embryonic period in birds, perinatal period in rodents) alters the differentiation of relevant sexually dimorphic pathways, often inducing the appearance of a sex‐reversed neurochemical phenotype that is the most probable cause of the final alteration of sexually differentiated behaviors in the adult animal. In conclusion, the data presented here should stimulate a critical reanalysis of the way to determine the “safe” exposure levels to EDCs for wild species and humans, considering behavior and related neural circuits among the factors to be analyzed.