bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Training CAMHS Professionals in Developing Countries: An Indian Case Study
Authors: Dogra Nisha , Frake Clay , Bretherton Karen , Dwivedi Kedar , Sharma Indira
Published: April 2005

This paper presents a rationale for the education of CAMHS staff and service development as a partnership between the UK and developing countries. The local context and background of child and adolescent mental health services in India are described, and the rationale for the teaching principles is outlined. The planning and delivery of the teaching, following these principles, is illustrated through a case study of work in India. The discussion focuses on what worked well, problems and difficulties faced, how these were managed, and how visitors can influence change whilst respecting the local perspective. Suggestions are made for improving future programmes so as to maximise the outcomes of such links.
Understanding community forestry: a qualitative meta‐study of the concept, the process, and its potential for poverty alleviation in the United States case
Authors: GLASMEIER AMY K , FARRIGAN TRACEY
Published: April 2005

This paper provides an assessment of the conceptual basis of community forestry from around the world, based on case studies presented in the literature, mainly over the last decade. More than 400 documents were examined for this comprehensive qualitative meta‐study (meta‐theory, meta‐analysis, meta‐method, and meta‐synthesis) of community forestry. An overall conclusion is offered regarding the extent to which community forestry can be adapted to foster practices that enhance livelihoods, particularly for poverty populations, in rural United States communities. Special attention is paid to signifiers of community empowerment and reflexivity as well as other elements of success suggested in the literature.
Association of Prothrombin Gene Mutation with Sepsis in a Preterm with Multiple Intracardiac Thrombi
Authors: Cinar Asli , Dilber Embiya , Karagoz Tevfik , Bahadir Nursat , Gucer Safak , Tekinalp Gulsevin , Gurgey Aytemiz
Published: April 2005

We report for the first time, a premature infant with multiple intracardiac thrombi and sepsis, who was heterozygous for the G20210A prothrombin gene variant. Anticoagulant treatment with low molecular weight heparin resulted in the complete disappearance of the thrombi. It may be suggested that prothrombin gene variant associated with sepsis, respiratory distress syndrome, and perinatal asphyxia, as well as other thrombophilic disorders, could be a risk factor for the development of neonatal thrombus.
Fabry Disease: Percutaneous Transluminal Septal Myocardial Ablation Markedly Improved Symptomatic Left Ventricular Hypertrophy and Outflow Tract Obstruction in a Classically Affected Male
Authors: Magage Sudheera , Linhart Ales , Bultas Jan , Vojacek Jan , Mates Martin , Palecek Tomas , Popelová Jana , Tintera Jaroslav , Aschermann Michael , Goldman Martin E. , Desnick Robert J.
Published: April 2005

Fabry disease (α‐galactosidase A deficiency) is an X‐linked recessive lysosomal storage disease in which left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is common, and if severe, may mimic hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy. Alcohol‐induced percutaneous transluminal septal myocardial ablation (PTSMA) has been used as a safe and effective method to alleviate LVH obstruction in patients with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HCM). We describe a case of a classically affected Fabry 53‐year‐old male with symptomatic HCM (NYHA class III with exertional angina) who was treated with PTSMA. The procedure safely and effectively alleviated symptomatic left ventricular outflow tract obstruction at long‐term follow‐up, and the patient's NYHA classification was reduced to NYHA class I to II.
Regional and Global Right Ventricular Function in Healthy Individuals Aged 20–90 Years: A Pulsed Doppler Tissue Imaging Study  Umeå General Population Heart Study
Authors: Lindqvist Per , Waldenström Anders , Henein Michael , Mörner Stellan , Kazzam Elsadig
Published: April 2005

The aim of the present study was to describe regional and global right ventricular (RV) function in a wide age range of healthy subjects of both sexes. We studied 255 (125 females) healthy individuals randomly selected from the Umeå General Population Register, age 58 ± 19 (range 22–89) years. RV function was studied using myocardial tissue Doppler imaging of the RV free wall. Isovolumic contraction (IVCv), systolic (Sv), early (Ev), and late (Av) diastolic velocities were measured. Furthermore, isovolumic periods and ejection time intervals were also measured. Conventional Doppler was used to study RV global filling properties. While systolic myocardial velocities were conserved over age, there was a decrease in myocardial E/A ratio with increasing age (r =−0.67, P < 0.001, for base) taken from the RV free wall. A similar age relation was found in RV global filling velocities with a reduced tricuspid E/A ratio (r =−0.57, P < 0.001). Furthermore, a significant correlation was found between global and regional E/A ratios at the basal (r = 0.58, P ≤ 0.001) and mid‐segmental levels (r = 0.46, P ≤ 0.001). Systolic myocardial velocities behaved independent of age whereas regional as well as global E/A ratio were age‐related. No relationship was found between regional isovolumic time intervals and age. Knowledge of these age‐dependent relationships is fundamental when evaluating RV function in patients.
Reproducibility of Transesophageal Echocardiography in Evaluating Aortic Atheroma in Stroke Patients
Authors: Zaidat Osama O. , Suarez Jose I. , Hedrick David , Redline Susan , Schluchter Mark , Landis Dennis M.D. , Hoit Brian
Published: April 2005

Although transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is a well‐established tool in delineating the cardiac and aortic sources of emboli in stroke patients, its reproducibility in detecting aortic atherosclerosis (AA) that may lead to stroke is not well documented. The aim of this study is to demonstrate the inter‐ and intra‐observer agreement in diagnosing AA based on the TEE study. During the study period, 2 echocardiographers read 32 TEE studies performed on a group of stroke patients. The AA was estimated by measuring the largest atheroma thickness in millimeters (mm). The intra‐observers and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were 0.97 and 0.85, respectively, for the 2 TEE observers. The inter‐rater ICC coefficient between TEE readers was 0.91. In conclusion, TEE detected AA and defined high proportions of the morphological characteristics of atheroma with good reproducibility among inter and intra‐observers.
Renal Adenocarcinoma with Intramyopericardial and Right Atrial Metastasis, Latter via Coronary Sinus: Report of a Case
Authors: Rohani Morteza , Roumina Simin , Saha Samir K.
Published: April 2005

Primary renal tumors with intracardiac metastasis are not infrequent. Most of the secondary spread is blood‐borne and occurs via inferior vena cava. Patients with such a spread often present with cardiac symptoms. We presume that a metastatic spread in the right atrium through coronary sinus has never been reported in the literature according to the result of a Medline search at the time of writing this report.
CADASIL: underdiagnosed in psychiatric patients?
Authors: Leyhe T. , Wiendl H. , Buchkremer G. , Wormstall H.
Published: April 2005

Objective:  Cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL) is exclusively related to symptoms of the central nervous system. Retrospectively in up to 15% the initial presentation is psychiatric disturbances. In these cases the diagnosis often is delayed or missed.

Method:  Two cases of CADASIL diagnosed in a psychiatric hospital are presented.

Results:  Both patients were admitted to the gerontopsychiatric department (one because of a suicidal attempt and a depressive episode, the other because of cognitive decline and progressive personal neglect). Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed severe leukoencephalopathy in the absence of cardiovascular risk factors. In both cases, diagnosis of CADASIL was made by the identification of specific granular osmiophilic material in skin biopsies.

Conclusion:  Brain MRI should be performed in all cases of late onset of severe psychiatric symptoms. CADASIL should be considered as a possible differential diagnosis whenever a marked leukoencephalopathy is detectable. Diagnosis can be verified by taking a skin biopsy or by specific genetic testing.
Aversive tension in patients with borderline personality disorder: a computer‐based controlled field study
Authors: Stiglmayr C. E. , Grathwol T. , Linehan M. M. , Ihorst G. , Fahrenberg J. , Bohus M.
Published: April 2005

Objective:  This study was designed to examine the subjective appraisal of aversive tension under conditions of daily life in patients with borderline personality disorder (BPD).

Method:  A sample of 63 female subjects with BPD and 40 mentally healthy controls were each given a hand‐held computer. For two consecutive days, participants were prompted at hourly intervals to record their current state of aversive tension and prompting events.

Results:  Compared with controls, states of aversive tension occurred significantly more frequently in BPD patients. The average levels of aversive tension were significantly higher, and the rate of increase in tension was markedly more rapid. Furthermore, states of aversive tension persisted for a longer period. Among BPD subjects three events (rejection, being alone, and failure) account for 39% of all events preceding states of tension.

Conclusion:  The study provides support for the theory that patients with BPD experience more frequent, stronger, and longer‐lasting states of aversive tension.
Suicide in classical mythology: cues for prevention
Authors: Preti A , Miotto P
Published: April 2005

Objective:  To compare well established antecedents and correlates of completed suicide with the motives and the mechanics reported in Greek mythology.

Method:  A well‐known collection of Greek myths, the Book of fables by Hyginus, was explored to investigate the mechanics driving an individual to imagine, design and carry out a suicide attempt.

Results:  Females outnumber males in the mythographer's list, their favourite methods to die being drowning, hanging, self‐burning and throwing themselves down from on high. Some kind of familial recurrence of suicide was accounted for, and a large percentage of these suicides was connected to incest. Shame, sense of guilt and grief for the death of a loved one are the most frequently reported psychological correlates of the act, whereas defeat, failure or a catastrophic change in living conditions and, among females, an unfortunate love affair figure as the main antecedents of suicide.

Conclusion:  Negative life events and emotional reactions to the severing of social ties frequently occur as antecedents of suicide in Greek mythology.
Mental health needs, service use and costs among Somali refugees in the UK
Authors: McCrone P. , Bhui K. , Craig T. , Mohamud S. , Warfa N. , Stansfeld S. A. , Thornicroft G. , Curtis S.
Published: April 2005

Objective:  To assess the mental health needs and service use of Somali refugees living in London.

Method:  Subjects (n = 143) were sampled from conventional and non‐conventional sites. Needs and service use were measured using the Camberwell Assessment of Need and the Client Service Receipt Inventory, respectively. Comparisons between sites were made and cost predictors identified.

Results:  Basic needs occurred frequently but were often not fully addressed. The mean number of needs was around four out of a possible 22. The most used services were GPs, other clinicians and refugee services. Higher non‐inpatient costs were associated with length of stay in the UK and lower costs with being at risk of suicide and having panic disorder or agoraphobia.

Conclusion:  Somali refugees living in London have a relatively high level of need but a low level of service use. Refugee characteristics could only account for a limited amount of cost variation.
Lamotrigine and antiepileptic drugs as mood stabilizers in bipolar disorder
Authors: Muzina D. J. , Elhaj O. , Gajwani P. , Gao K. , Calabrese J. R.
Published: April 2005

Objective:  To review the clinical trials literature on the use of antiepileptic drugs (AED) as mood stabilizers and to suggest an evidence‐based approach when utilizing these agents in bipolar disorder.

Method:  The literature is reviewed and subdivided into the following sections: carbamazepine and oxcarbazepine, valproate, lamotrigine, gabapentin and other AED, and discussion.

Results:  Data exist to support the use of carbamazepine and valproate – and to a lesser extent, oxcarbazepine – in the management of acute manic episodes associated with bipolar I disorder. Lamotrigine, gabapentin, and other AED have not demonstrated consistent anti‐manic effects. Clinical trials data favor lamotrigine over all other AED in the treatment of acute bipolar I depression and in rapid cycling bipolar disorder (particularly type II), although the absence of an active comparator in these lamotrigine trials must be noted. Lamotrigine, carbamazepine, and valproate all have evidence supporting their roles as potential long‐term mood stabilizers to prevent bipolar relapse, with lamotrigine having a stronger effect in the prevention of depression.

Conclusion:  The AED are a heterogeneous group of medications with differential spectrum of efficacy in the treatment of bipolar disorder.
Assaultive trauma and illness course in psychotic bipolar disorder: findings from the suffolk county mental health project
Authors: Neria Y. , Bromet E. J. , Carlson G. A. , Naz B.
Published: April 2005

Objective:  Little is known about the relationship of assaultive trauma to clinical and functional outcome in patients with bipolar disorder.

Method:  We assessed trauma histories in a cohort of 109 first‐admission bipolar patients with psychosis using structured interviews and medical records. Assaultive trauma included rape, physical attacks, and physical threats. Outcome was assessed using standardized ratings.

Results:  Forty percent reported a history of assaultive trauma, mostly in childhood (≤16 years). Exposed patients were more symptomatic at each follow‐up than unexposed. Sixteen percent of exposed patients remitted after one episode compared with 38.5% of the non‐exposed. Patients exposed as adults were the most symptomatic at 6 months, while patients exposed in childhood were the most symptomatic at 24 months.

Conclusion:  Our findings supported the salient role of trauma history as a risk factor for poor course in severe bipolar disorder. Given the high prevalence of such exposure, clinical awareness in first‐admission psychotic bipolar patients is critical.
Interfacial reaction of nitrogen with molten iron: a theoretical study
Authors: Lee Joonho , Morita Kazuki
Published: April 2005

The effect of oxygen on the interfacial reaction rates of nitrogen dissolution into molten iron has been studied using a new theoretical model and the measurements by an isotope‐exchange technique in our previous studies. In our model, surface activities of the vacant sites and the sites occupied by oxygen have been proposed to predict the interfacial reaction rates and to clarify the rate‐determining step of nitrogen dissolution into molten iron using the oxygen adsorption that had been obtained based on Butler's equations. It was found that the experimental results were in good accordance with the predicted values for adsorbed N2 dissociation control rather than those for N2 adsorption control in the low oxygen and sulphur activity region, yielding that the dissociation of nitrogen molecule into atoms at the surface is the rate‐determining step of the interfacial reaction of nitrogen dissolution into molten iron.
Observation and measurement of bubble separation at liquid steel–slag interfaces
Authors: Chevrier V. , Cramb A. W.
Published: April 2005

The separation of bubbles at liquid steel–slag interfaces is interesting due to its importance in the formation of subsurface defects during casting. X‐ray fluoroscopy was used to observe argon bubbles separating at a carbon saturated liquid iron–slag interface. It was found that rest times at the interface are significant and range from 0.1 to 8 s depending upon the experimental conditions for bubble sizes ranging from 7 to 12 mm in diameter. Rest‐time distributions were found to be a function of slag chemistry and temperature (due to viscosity and interfacial tension changes), bubble size and reaction rate when there was a slag–metal reaction that occurred during the experiment. The phenomenon was highly variable and could only be studied statistically, indicating that current models of film drainage and rupture do not completely describe the key variables that affect the phenomena.
Changing paradigm of metal separation technology for steel production
Authors: Emi Toshihiko
Published: April 2005

Near future technological development of ironmaking and steelmaking has been discussed with emphasis placed on ecological processes, products and systems for sustaining resources circulatory society. Measures to reduce CO2 emission and energy consumption are considered in terms of optimization of blast furnace operation, new ironmaking routes, processing of scrap, electric arc furnace operation with hot metal charging, refining technology for high performance steels, and waste processing using steelmaking‐related technologies.
Hydrogen reduction of complex oxides—a novel route toward the production of nanograined alloys and intermetallics
Authors: Morales Ricardo , Tavera Francisco J. , Aune Ragnhild E. , Seetharaman Seshadri
Published: April 2005

One of the major obstacles in the incorporation of nanomaterials in high technology is the lack of new processes for the bulk production of the materials with compositions tailored to suit the application. Oxides can potentially be reduced to metals, intermetallics or alloys by hydrogen or natural gas. The formation of homogeneous alloys and intermetallics by this method has been confirmed by a number of experimental studies. The kinetics of hydrogen reduction of pure oxides of transition metals as well as complex tungstates, molybdates, titanates, aluminates and chromate were investigated by thermogravimetry. The formation of homogeneous alloys and intermetallics was confirmed by these studies. Arrhenius activation energies of the reduction reactions could be linked to the stabilities of the complex oxides. The products were found to have nanograin structure. Bulk processing through hydrogen reduction route was examined in the case of iron molybdate using a fluidized bed reactor.
Separation, settling and flow phenomena in electric matte smelting of Cu–Ni concentrates
Authors: Eric R. Hurman
Published: April 2005

The flow of slag and settling of matte in slag resistance electric furnaces are discussed in conjunction with furnace geometries, stirring action of the electrodes, buoyancy and electromagnetic effects, all of which obviously affect matte–slag separation and metal losses to the slag. The effect of change in slag composition upon such losses and the relationship between slag composition and slag–matte separation are also discussed on the basis of the laboratory tests conducted at 1400°C. The relationship between slag composition and matte–slag separation was found to depend primarily on the basicity ratio and the FeO content of the slag.

The rectangular electric furnace was regarded as a channel reactor. The flow is affected both by buoyancy and by electromagnetic forces, however, the effect of the latter is minimal. The flow velocity is made up of two components; (i) that developed by the action of the electrodes, and (ii) the bulk velocity determined by the smelting rate and the volume of the reactor. Slag samples were taken from various depths of the molten bath and were analyzed microscopically to determine the size and distribution of matte prills which would lead to the better understanding of the separation and settling behavior. The rectangular 6‐in‐line electrode furnace was also considered as made up of 6 separate reactors all of which are acting as continuously stirred settling/separation reactors connected in series. This attempt has led to the conclusion that, under the conditions of the electric furnace, the most effective length of the settler would be between about 13 and 86% of its total length.
Glimmers of research in metallurgy
Authors: Holappa Lauri
Published: April 2005

Directions of research in metallurgy, as well as in general, used to be strongly influenced by national or local needs and circumstances. The availability of raw materials and energy were the key factors for metallurgical industry, especially in such geographically eccentric areas as Finland. In basic research, however, the role of the international context has been quite strong through centuries. In the current globalization scene, the role of R&D is further emphasized for the success of the metallurgical industry. International networks and cooperation take place both in basic research and in the development of new industrial innovations. In this contribution, some personal experiences in metallurgical research during the last 40 years are reviewed and discussed considering the current and future perspectives. As examples, studies on iron decarburization, non‐stoichiometric compounds, oxide sulfation, slag chemistry in steel, copper and ferroalloys processes, injection metallurgy and inclusion control, gas bubble bursting, thermal plasma synthesis, continuous casting and solidification are briefly discussed.
Reduction of Chilean copper slags: a case of waste management project
Authors: González C. , Parra R. , Klenovcanova A. , Imris I. , Sánchez M.
Published: April 2005

The Chilean copper smelters are producing large amount of copper slags. These copper slags are deposited at landfills. In the present time, a huge amount of copper slags are accumulated in Chile. The main problem with landfilling is not only the land space, area which is used for copper slags deposition every year, but many environmental problems, high disposal and transport cost are associated with the landfilling of these slags. Therefore, the focus of environmental policy is now into waste minimization and recycling to minimize transport and disposal cost, saving resources as well as land space. Copper slag contains many useful metals and slag making oxides, which can be recovered and recycled by a high temperature direct reduction process. The laboratory scale tests show that by suggested high temperature direct reduction of copper slags two products can be obtained, a Fe–Cu–C alloy with precious metals content and an inert slag with low metal content. The Fe–Cu–C alloy can be used for metal production and inert slag for cement production similar to blast furnace slags. Suggested high temperature direct reduction process for copper slags treatment is commercially feasible and environmentally friendly without any solid or liquid waste.
Sjögren's syndrome
Authors: Delaleu Nicolas , Jonsson Roland , Koller Markus M.
Published: April 2005

Sjögren's syndrome (SS) is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting the exocrine glands, primarily the salivary and lacrimal glands. It has been suggested that exogenous agents may trigger SS in genetically predisposed individuals. However, at present, the etiology of SS is far from being understood, and no direct evidence for any of these triggers has been presented. The salivary and lacrimal glands from patients with SS harbor unique and highly selected T‐ and B‐cell populations. Disturbance in glandular cell apoptosis may be one possible explanation for the sicca symptoms in SS. However, discrepancies between glandular destruction and salivary flow give rise to processes causing glandular dysfunction preceding or triggering glandular cell destruction. Recent reports suggested autoantibodies inhibiting neuronal innervation of acinar cells and defective water transport to be implicated in salivary secretion deficiency observed in SS. Several types of autoantibodies have been suggested to contribute to the pathogenesis of SS. However, how the tolerance to these structures is broken down is unknown at present. Studies on B‐cell activating factor indicated that diminished apoptosis and disturbed B‐cell maturation could be responsible for the occurrence of autoreactive B‐cells and B‐cell hyperreactivity. B‐cell activation may also provide a basis for lymphoma development observed in up to 5% of the patients with SS.
X‐Ray absorption fine structure analysis of the local environment of zinc in dentine treated with zinc compounds
Authors: Takatsuka Tsutomu , Hirano Junko , Matsumoto Hitoshi , Honma Tetsuo
Published: April 2005

It has been reported that zinc oxide (ZnO) inhibits dentine demineralization. By using the X‐ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) technique, our aims in this study were to provide information about the local environment of zinc atoms in dentine that had been treated with zinc compounds. We measured the Zn K‐edge X‐ray absorption near‐edge structure (XANES) and the extended X‐ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) of dentine specimens treated with zinc chloride or ZnO. In XAFS analyses, the spectra of dentine specimens treated with ZnO (D‐ZO) or with zinc chloride (D‐ZC) were similar and obviously different from the reference ZnO spectrum. This suggests that most of the zinc atoms detected in D‐ZO are not derived from particles of ZnO. The spectra of D‐ZO and D‐ZC were similar to the spectrum of the synthetic, zinc‐containing hydroxyapatite, but were not similar to that of zinc in ZnCl2‐treated collagen. The results of this study suggest that most of the zinc atoms detected were attached to hydroxyapatite and not to collagen.
Multivariate survival analysis for the identification of factors associated with cavity formation in permanent first molars
Authors: Leroy Roos , Bogaerts Kris , Lesaffre Emmanuel , Declerck Dominique
Published: April 2005

This investigation used a multivariate survival model, which allowed for dependent caries data with possible censoring, to analyse the impact of timing of tooth emergence, gender and several reported oral hygiene and dietary habits on the incidence of cavity formation in permanent first molars (PFM) in young children. A 6‐yr prospective oral health screening project in Flanders, Belgium, provided clinical and questionnaire data on 4,468 children. The results revealed that PFM in children who reported frequent brushing, who had no visible caries experience in the primary dentition, and who presented without occlusal plaque on the PFM had the best survival estimates. Girls had a higher incidence than boys of cavity formation in mandibular molars. The multiple survival analysis confirmed the major impact of the caries status of the deciduous dentition and self‐reported oral hygiene habits on the incidence of cavities in permanent first molars.
Sense of coherence as a determinant of the oral health‐related quality of life: a national study in Finnish adults
Authors: Savolainen Jarno , Suominen‐Taipale Anna‐Liisa , Hausen Hannu , Harju Päivi , Uutela Antti , Martelin Tuija , Knuuttila Matti
Published: April 2005

Our aim was to investigate the relationship among the oral health‐related quality of life, the sense of coherence (SOC), and socio‐economic and demographic factors, oral behavioural variables and oral health variables. The sample of this study consisted of 4,039, 30–64‐yr‐old dentate adults (1,899 men and 2,140 women). The questionnaire and home interview included information about socio‐economic and demographic factors, behavioural and attitudinal variables (such as oral health behaviours and oral health variables), the SOC (12‐item) and the Oral Health Impact Profile scales (OHIP‐14). Subjects with a strong or moderate SOC were found to have significantly fewer problems attributed to oral conditions (OHIP) than those with a weak SOC. The SOC was also associated with all of the subscales of the OHIP, and the association was most evident in psychological discomfort, psychological disability and handicap subscales. The SOC appears to be a determinant of the OHIP, independently of oral health, oral health behaviour and socio‐economic factors. A psycho‐social aspect is strongly embodied in the oral health‐related quality of life of individuals.
Age-Related Changes in Phosphorylation of Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase in the Rat Penis
Authors: Musicki Biljana , Kramer Melissa F. , Becker Robyn E. , Burnett Arthur L.
Published: April 2005

Aim

Aging is associated with erectile dysfunction (ED) attributed to reduced nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity and nitric oxide bioavailability. However, the mechanism for this effect has not been fully investigated. We evaluated (i) whether age-related ED involves dysregulation of endothelial NOS (eNOS) phosphorylation; and (ii) whether vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) exerts erectile effects and operates via eNOS phosphorylation in aged rats.

Methods

Male Fischer 344 “young” (4-month-old) and “aged” (19-month-old) rats were used. Electrical stimulation of the cavernous nerve (CNS) was performed to generate penile erection. Erectile response in the presence of rhVEGF165 was evaluated by intracavernosal pressure monitoring 25 minutes after intracavernosal injection of VEGF. Penes were excised at baseline, with or without rhVEGF treatment, and after CNS for Western immunoblot of phospho-eNOS (Ser-1177 and Thr-495), phospho-Akt, and eNOS.

Results

Erectile response was significantly reduced in aged rats compared with young rats. Phospho-eNOS (Ser-1177) and phospho-Akt were significantly reduced, while phospho-eNOS (Thr-495) was significantly increased, in the aged penis at baseline and after CNS. rhVEGF significantly improved erection and reversed downregulated Ser-1177, but not upregulated Thr-495 phosphorylation, on eNOS in aged penes. eNOS protein was significantly increased in aged penes.

Conclusions

Age-related ED is associated with eNOS inactivation through a decrease in phosphorylation of its positive regulatory site (Ser-1177) and an increase in phosphorylation of its negative regulatory site (Thr-495) in the penis. Altered phosphorylation/constitutive activation of eNOS by fluid shear stress may be a major determinant of compromised vascular homeostasis of the aged penis. The finding that VEGF rapidly induces erection and partly corrects alterations in eNOS phosphorylation in the aged rat penis suggests impaired eNOS activation by deficient endogenous VEGF and supports the potential for growth factor therapy in the treatment of age-related ED.
Premature Ejaculation: An Observational Study of Men and Their Partners
Authors: Patrick Donald L. , Althof Stanley E. , Pryor Jon L. , Rosen Raymond , Rowland David L. , Ho Kai Fai , McNulty Pauline , Rothman Margaret , Jamieson Carol
Published: April 2005

Introduction

Premature ejaculation (PE) is the most common male sexual dysfunction affecting men and their partners. Lack of community-based data describing this condition limits understanding of PE and its outcomes.

Aim

To characterize PE in a large population of men with and without PE using patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures elicited from men and their partners.

Methods

4-week, multicenter, observational study of males (≥18 years) and their female partners in monogamous relationships (≥6 months). Screening, baseline, and follow-up visits scheduled at 2-week intervals. Clinicians diagnosed PE utilizing DSM-IV-TR criteria. Intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT), measured by a stopwatch held by the partner, was recorded for each sexual intercourse experience. Subject and partner independently assessed PROs: control over ejaculationand satisfaction with sexual intercourse(0 = very poor to 4 = very good), personal distressand interpersonal difficulty(0 = not at all to 4 = extremely), and severity of PE(0 = none to 3 = severe).

Results

Of the total study population (N = 1,587), 207 subjects were diagnosed with PE and 1,380 were assigned to the non-PE group. Median IELT (min) was 1.8 (range, 0–41) for PE and 7.3 (range, 0–53) for non-PE subjects (P < 0.0001). More PE vs. non-PE subjects gave ratings of “very poor” or “poor” for control over ejaculation(72% vs. 5%; P < 0.0001) and satisfaction with sexual intercourse(31% vs. 1%; P < 0.0001). More subjects in the PE vs. non-PE group gave ratings of “quite a bit” or “extremely” for personal distress(64% vs. 4%; P < 0.0001) and interpersonal difficulty(31% vs. 1%; P < 0.0001). Subject and partner assessments showed similar patterns and correlated moderately (0.36–0.57).

Conclusions

PE subjects reported significantly shorter IELT. Overlap in IELT distributions was observed between the PE and non-PE groups, indicating the need for additional PRO measures to characterize PE. Shorter IELT was significantly associated with reduced ejaculatory control and sexual satisfaction and increased distress and interpersonal difficulty.
Relationships Between Erectile Dysfunction, Depression, and Anxiety in Japanese Subjects
Authors: Sugimori Hiroki , Yoshida Katsumi , Tanaka Toshiaki , Baba Katsuyuki , Nishida Takayasu , Nakazawa Ryuto , Iwamoto Teruaki
Published: April 2005

Aims

This study aimed to elucidate the relationships between erectile dysfunction (ED) and depression or anxiety.

Methods

Subjects were 1,419 Japanese men aged 40–64 years. ED was assessed by the International Index of Erectile Function 5 (IIEF-5) score (Japanese version), and depression and anxiety symptoms were assessed by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). In this study ED cases were defined as those whose IIEF-5 value was less than 12, and a score of 8 or higher was used to classify a subject as suffering from depression or anxiety, respectively. The prevalence odds ratio (OR) of ED was calculated with confidence interval (CI) estimated by the Woolf's method by five age groups (40–44, 45–49, 50–54, 55–59, 60–64 years). To control for age, body mass index, smoking, and alcohol drinking factors, we conducted the multivariate logistic regression analysis for calculating adjusted ORs and 99% CIs.

Results

ED was significantly associated with depression in age groups 45–49 (OR 3.42, 99% CI 1.51–7.76) and 50–54 years (OR 2.43, 99% CI 1.11–5.35). After using multivariate analysis, adjusted OR also showed statistical significance. (OR 2.02, 99% CI 1.32–3.08). ED was significantly associated with anxiety in the 50–55-year-old age group (OR 2.48, 99% CI 1.12–5.47). After using multivariate analysis, adjusted OR also showed statistical significance (OR 1.77, 99% CI 1.15–2.72). The concomitant depression and anxiety group (A+D+) had significantly higher prevalence of ED than the control group (A–D–) in both the 45–49 and 50–54 age groups. (P < 0.01)

Conclusion

ED associated significantly with depression and anxiety status only in late 40s to early 50s (45–55 years) in male Japanese. Furthermore, comorbidities of depression and anxiety strengthen this association. Our results might be useful in furthering understanding of ED etiology and determining a target population for prevention in ED subjects.
Association Between the Bothersomeness of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms and the Prevalence of Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: Shiri Rahman , Häkkinen Jukka , Koskimäki Juha , Huhtala Heini , Auvinen Anssi , Hakama Matti , Tammela Teuvo L.J.
Published: April 2005

Objective

To assess the association between the bothersomeness of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and the prevalence of erectile dysfunction (ED).

Methods

The target population comprised all men born in 1924, 1934, or 1944 and residing in Tampere or 11 surrounding municipalities in Finland in 1999. A questionnaire was sent in May 1999 to 2,864 men, and 2,133 (75%) responded. Of them, 417 were excluded because of missing data on erectile function, or because they had prostate cancer or radical prostatectomy, leaving a total of 1,716 (60%) qualified respondents. LUTS was assessed by the Danish Prostatic Symptom Score, and ED by a short form of the International Index of Erectile Function. Logistic regression model was used in the multivariate analysis.

Results

Adjusted odds ratios (ORs) of ED were 2.6 (95% CI 1.3–5.2) for men with LUTS total scores of 11–19 compared with men without LUTS and were not bothered by them, and 4.4 (2.1–8.9) for those with scores 20 or more. Bother scores 1–3 and 4–6 were significantly associated with ED (OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.2–2.6 and 2.1, 1.4–3.4, respectively), while similar symptoms scores were not. Adjusted ORs of ED was 4.1 (2.0–8.2) for men with a symptoms score of 10 or more compared with those free from symptoms, and same (OR 4.2, 95% CI 2.7–6.7) for men with similar bother score. Among symptoms, nocturia (adjusted OR 1.5), weak stream (OR 1.5), stress incontinence (OR 2.1), and overflow incontinence (OR 1.8) were significantly associated with ED, whereas among bother, only overflow incontinence (OR 2.2) was significantly correlated with ED.

Conclusions

ED is a common problem in men with LUTS and is strongly associated with both the severity of symptoms and their bothersomeness. However, bother of mild LUTS affects ED more than the mild symptoms, emphasizing the potential of psychological mechanisms of ED.
LACTOBACILLUS CURVATUS PRODUCES A BACTERIOCIN‐LIKE AGENT ACTIVE AGAINST GRAM‐NEGATIVE PATHOGENIC BACTERIA
Authors: CHUNG H.‐J. , YOUSEF A.E.
Published: April 2005

Isolates from fermented foods were screened for antimicrobial activity against gram‐negative bacteria. The most active isolate was identified as a Lactobacillus curvatus by biochemical analysis and ribotyping, and the isolate was designated as OSY‐HJC6. Lactobacillus curvatus OSY‐HJC6 was further tested for intracellular and extracellular production of antimicrobial agents. A reduction of > 8 log10 cfu/mL was observed when cell suspensions of Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis and Escherichia coli O157:H7 were treated with equal volumes of Lb. curvatus culture supernatant. Gram‐positive bacteria were not sensitive to the culture supernatant, but antimicrobial activity was detected when the cell extract was tested against several gram‐positive and gram‐negative bacteria. Culture supernatant and cell extract retained the antimicrobial activity after heating at 60–100C for 10 min but not after protease treatment. The cell extract of Lb. curvatus retarded the growth of E. coli p220 in broth medium and food extracts (i.e., bacteriostatic action) but showed bactericidal activity against the bacterium in phosphate buffer.
STUDIES ON OCCURRENCE AND CHARACTERIZATION OF CLOSTRIDIUM PERFRINGENS FROM SELECT MEATS
Authors: SINGH R.V. , BHILEGAONKAR K.N. , AGARWAL R.K.
Published: April 2005

A study was undertaken to assess the prevalence of Clostridium perfringens in meat and to characterize the isolates obtained in the study for virulence factors. A total of 211 meat samples of different animals (70 each of buffalo and goat and 71 of poultry) were screened and the highest occurrence of C. perfringens was observed in goat (91.4%) followed by poultry (70.4%) and buffalo (65.7%). Among the 116 isolates (buffalo‐32, goat‐37 and poultry‐45) of C. perfringens screened for the presence of enterotoxin gene by PCR, 9.3, 32.4 and 15.5% isolates of buffalo, goat and poultry, respectively, were found to possess enterotoxin gene. Screening of 15 enterotoxin gene possessing isolates for verocytotoxicity revealed that 12 isolates exhibited cytopathic effect while 3 isolates did not show any cytopathic effect in spite of the presence of enterotoxin gene. A total of 115 C. perfringens isolates were screened for other virulence markers, i.e., lecithinase and hemolysin. The results revealed that the majority of the isolates expressed these activities. Antibiogram studies of C. perfringens isolates using 16 antibiotics displayed multidrug resistance. The isolates showed resistance to streptomycin, ceftazidime, colistin sulfate, cephalothin, ampicillin and gentamicin. Whereas 100% sensitivity to ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin and nitrofurantoin was seen, moderate sensitivity was observed with tetracycline and sulfatriad.
MODELING THE EFFECT OF INITIAL CONCENTRATION OF ESCHERICHIA COLI SUSPENSIONS ON THEIR INACTIVATION BY CHLORINE
Authors: VIRTO R. , SANZ D. , ÁLVAREZ I. , CONDON S. , RASO J.
Published: April 2005

The objective of this investigation was to model the influence of the initial microbial concentration on the Escherichia coli resistance to chlorine. A suspension test was used to evaluate the antibacterial efficacy of chlorine. Chlorine doses ranged from 0.6 to 0.9 mL /L, from 0.3 to 0.7 m L /L, from 0.15 to 0.3 mL/L and from 0.1 to 0.2 mL /L when the initial microbial concentration was 1.2 × 108, 6 × 107, 6 × 106and 6 × 105 CFU/mL, respectively. In order to describe the survival curves of E. coli, a mathematical model based on a biphasic inactivation was used. Initial microbial concentration had a significant influence on the kinetics of inactivation and on the resistance of E. coli to chlorine. In order to obtain a good repeatability and reproducibility of the bacterial suspension test, the initial concentration of bacterial suspensions should be evaluated and standardized.
HOW RATIONAL INVESTORS DEAL WITH UNCERTAINTY (OR, REPORTS OF THE DEATH OF EFFICIENT MARKETS THEORY ARE GREATLY EXAGGERATED)
Authors: Brown Keith C. , Harlow W. V. , Tinic Seba M.
Published: April 2005

Much academic research in finance in the past quarter century has been devoted to examining the proposition that corporate securities are priced by “rational” investors in an “efficient market.” Stated most simply, the proposition says that the intensive pursuit of large returns by stock market investors ensures that, for the vast majority, only modest ones will be had. This argument, which has been refined and tested as the “efficient markets hypothesis” (EMH), could well be described as the foundation of modern financial theory.
HOW INVESTORS INTERPRET CHANGES IN CORPORATE FINANCIAL POLICY
Authors: Healy Paul M. , Palepu Krishna G.
Published: April 2005

In May 1987, Apple Computer announced that it would pay $5 million in cash dividends on its common stock your cents per share) for the first time in its history. On the day of the announcement, the market value of Apple's equity rose by $219 million.

In May 1986, Emhart announced that it intended to issue 2.75 million shares to raise $102 million in new equity. Following the announcement, the market value of its existing equity fell by $23 million.

In February 1939, General Motors declared a 2‐for‐1 stock split for the first time since 1955, and increased its dividends. The announcement led the market value of GM's equity to increase by $1.3 billion.
THE NEW DISCLOSURES OF EXECUTIVE PAY
Authors: MILLER MERTON , COX CHARLES , GILSON RONALD , JARRELL GREGG , STOLL HANS
Published: April 2005

The Shadow SEC, founded three years ago, is a group of prominent Financial economists (and a token economically‐oriented lawyer) whose mission is to bring economic analysis to bear on the regulatory policies of the U.S. Securites and Exchange Comminsion, and on Financial market regulation in general. The fire “Commissioners” of the Shadow SEC are:
THE GROWING MIDDLE MARKET DEMAND FOR SOPHISTICATED FINANCIAL PRODUCTS
Authors: Acheson Marcus W.
Published: April 2005

Some mid‐sized firms are gaining access to more sophisticated financial products and services than traditional lenders are used to offering–or, in most cases, even prepared to offer. Is this an inexorable trend? How many banks can play at this increasingly sophisticated level?
HOW (AND WHY) COMPANIES SHOULD VALUE THEIR EMPLOYEE STOCK OPTIONS
Authors: McCann Craig
Published: April 2005

Companies incur costs whenever they deliver something of value to another party, and not just when cash changes hands… If options aren't a form of compensation, what are they? If compensation isn't an expense, what is it? And, if expenses shouldn't go into the calculation of earnings, where in the world should they go?
BANC ONE CORPORATION: ASSET AND LIABILITY MANAGEMENT
Authors: Esty Ben , Tufano Peter , Headley Jonathan
Published: April 2005

[Derivatives are] simply another Wall Street‐developed house of cards.

—Representative Joseph Kennedy 1

You can call it [the use of derivatives] whatever you want, but in my book it's gambling.

—Representative Henry Gonzalez, Chairman, House Banking Committee 2

Our use of derivatives is just one more step in the evolution of banking.

—John B. McCoy, Chairman and CEO, Banc One Corporation
A CASE OF MISTAKEN IDENTITY: THE USE OF EXPENSE/REVENUE RATIOS TO MEASURE RATIOS TO MEASURE BANK EFFICIENCY
Authors: Osborne Jon
Published: April 2005

First Interstate Bancorp, in announcing the next phase of its ongoing strategic plan, said its goal is to move its 1995 expense/revenue ratio to 58% from 65·7% in 1993. The expense/revenue ratio is considered to be a key measure of a bank's operating efficiency.
TOTAL COMPENSATION STRATEGY
Authors: O'Byrne Stephen F.
Published: April 2005

Total compensation shall represent competitive levels of compensation… Performance‐related pay shall be a significant component of total compensation placing a substantial portion of an executive officer's compensation at risk.
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE IN AN EMERGING MARKET: THE CASE OF ISRAEL
Authors: Blass Asher , Yafeh Yishay , Yosha Oved
Published: April 2005

Despite significant capital‐market reforms in the mid‐1980s, the Israeli government and banks continue to play an unusually dominant role in Israeli financial markets. Israeli banks operate as merchant banks and, through pyramid structures of ownership, control large segments of manufacturing, construction, insurance, and services. In addition, the banks dominate all facets of the capital market, including underwriting, brokerage, investment advice, and the management of mutual and provident funds.

Because of this dominance by the banks, several important mechanisms of corporate governance are missing. There is no effective market for corporate control; institutional investors have little incentive to monitor corporate managers; and those managers in turn have little incentive to improve firm performance and increase shareholder value.

To be sure, there has been an impressive wave of IPOs on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange (TASE) in the 1990s. But those firms' stocks have substantially underperformed the market since going public, and many “higher‐quality” Israeli firms have chosen in recent years to list their securities on the NASDAQ and not at home. The main reason the most promising Israeli firms go public in the U.S. is because that is where U.S. and other foreign investors want to buy them; such investors want the assurances that come with the U.S. corporate governance system.
THE 1997 STERN STEWART PERFORMANCE 1000
Authors: Ross Irwin
Published: April 2005

The top performers in Stern Stewart's annual ranking have beenc remarkably consistent, with Coca Cola and General Electric still number one and two at the end of 1996. Nevertheless, Microsoft and Intel had moved up to numbers three and four–and Intel had produced the largest EVA numbers for both 1995 and 1996. But, if the identity of the top 10 companies shifted only slightly, there are a number of new EVA case studies in this year's set of company profiles, in‐cluding Harnischfeger Industries, Manitowoc Company, International Multifoods, and the German industrial giant Siemens.