bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Into Cerberus' Lair: Bringing the Idea of Security to Light
Authors: Smith Graham M.
Published: October 2005

Using the motif of Cerberus, the three-headed monster watchdog of Hades, this article attempts to bring ‘security’ to light. Specifically, it addresses two related questions. The primary question is: What does ‘security’ mean?. Here it is argued that ‘security’ is related to ‘order’ and is a reflection not of a positive value in and of itself, but the relative success of any given order to realise its core values in relation to other orders. Therefore, ‘security’ is found to be like Cerberus insofar as it exists not as an independent value or being, but only in relation between two orders. Having located ‘security’ within this conceptual framework, the article then addresses its second question: What are the effects of security?. The motif of Cerberus suggests that security ‘bites' in three ways: first, that specific measures of security control the members of an order; second, that the identification of security threats reinforce certain persons and structures of the order as being the definers of the order; and finally, that the implementation of certain security measures can change and transform the order itself. In this way the analysis offered here brings ‘security’ to light not only as an inherently political term connected to political values, but to provide foundations for critiquing the rhetorical use of ‘security’ in contemporary political discourse and thought.
The Prime Minister and the Core Executive: A Liberal Intergovernmentalist Reading of UK Defence Policy Formulation 1997–2000
Authors: Dover Robert
Published: October 2005

This article explores the domestic formulation of UK European defence policy 1997–2000 through the intergovernmental meetings at Pörtschach and Saint Malo which set in train the development and codification of a common European Security and Defence Policy (ESDP) in 2000, through a Liberal Intergovernmentalist (LI) framework. This research leads to five conclusions: first, that the Saint Malo initiative was a tactical shift of government policies rather than core preferences; second, that the prime minister centralised European defence policy-making within the core executive; third, that the prime minister was crucial to the development of the initiative; fourth, that the presentation of the initiative was made on lowest common denominator grounds; and, lastly, that the ‘successive limited comparisons' framework provides an effective corrective to LI's domestic policy formulation hypotheses.
Critical Analysis of the International Classification of Headache Disorders Diagnostic Criteria (ICHD I-1988) and (ICHD II-2004), for Migraine in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Lima MMF , Padula NAMR , Santos LCA , Oliveira LDB , Agapejev S , Padovani C
Published: October 2005

The present study analyzed the (ICHD I-1988) and (ICHD II-2004) diagnostic criteria in children and adolescents. Our population consisted of 496 patients of the Headache Outpatient Ward for Children and Adolescents retrospectively studied from 1992 to 2002. Individuals were classified according to three diagnostic groups: Intuitive Clinical Diagnosis (Gold Standard), ICHD I-1988 and ICHD II-2004. They were statistically compared using the variables: Sensitivity (S), Specificity (Sp), Positive Predictive Value (PPV), Negative Predictive Value (NPV). When ICHD I-1988 was used, the sensitivity of migraine without and with aura was 21% and 27%, respectively, whereas in ICHD II-2004 it changed to 53% and 71% without affecting specificity. As a conclusion, the current classification criteria (ICHD II-2004) showed greater sensitivity and high specificity for migraine than ICHD I-1988, although it improved migraine diagnosis in children and adolescents, the sensitivity remains poor.
Lack of Effect of the Adenosine A1Receptor Agonist, GR79236, on Capsaicin-Induced CGRP Release in Anaesthetized Pigs
Authors: Arulmani U , Heiligers JPC , Centurión D , Garrelds IM , Villalón CM , Saxena PR
Published: October 2005

Migraine is a common neurological disorder that is associated with an increase in plasma calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) levels. CGRP, a potent vasodilator released from the activated trigeminal sensory nerves, dilates intracranial blood vessels and transmits vascular nociception. Hence, inhibition of trigeminal CGRP release may prevent neurotransmission and, thereby, ameliorate migraine headache. Therefore, the present study in anaesthetized pigs investigates the effects of a selective adenosine A1receptor agonist, GR79236 (3, 10 and 30 μg/kg, i.v.) on capsaicin-induced carotid haemodynamic changes and on plasma CGRP release. Intracarotid (i.c.) infusion of capsaicin (10 μg/kg/min, i.c.) increased the total carotid blood flow and conductance as well as carotid pulsations, but decreased the difference between arterial and jugular venous oxygen saturations. These responses to capsaicin were dose-dependently attenuated by GR79236. However, the increases in the plasma CGRP concentrations by capsaicin remained essentially unmodified after GR79236 treatment. The above results suggest that GR79236 may have an antimigraine potential due to its postjunctional effects (carotid vasoconstriction) rather than to prejunctional inhibition of trigeminal CGRP release.
Effect of Sympathetic and Parasympathetic Mediators on the Release of Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide and Prostaglandin E2 from Rat Dura Mater, in vitro
Authors: Ebersberger A , Takac H , Richter F , Schaible H-G
Published: October 2005

Although not without controversy, an influence of the autonomic nervous system in headache is a matter for current debate. A possible contact site of autonomic and sensory nerves is the dura mater, where they form a dense network accompanying blood vessels. We investigated interactions between autonomic and nociceptive fibres by measuring release of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) from the dura mater, in vitro. The parasympathomimetic agent carbachol did not change basal release of CGRP or PGE2, whereas it diminished release induced by a mixture of inflammatory mediators. Norepinephrine did not change induced release of CGRP or PGE2, nor basal release of CGRP. However, basal release of PGE2 was enhanced by norepinephrine, and this enhancement was reduced by serotonin through 5-HT1D receptors. We conclude that sympathetic transmitters may control nociceptor sensitivity via increased basal PGE2 levels, a possible mechanism to facilitate headache generation. Parasympathetic transmitters may reduce enhanced nociceptor activity.
The Practice Pattern of Migraine Management among Neurologists in Taiwan
Authors: Lu S-R , Wang S-J , Fuh J-L
Published: October 2005

To assess the prevalence of migraine and the attitudes and practice patterns of Taiwanese neurologists regarding migraine management, we mailed the survey questionnaire to all of the actively practicing board-certified neurologists from the membership list of the Taiwan Neurological Association. Of the targeted 531 neurologists, 123 (23.2%) participated in this study. Thirty of the participants (27.6%) reported having migraine. Most neurologists (88.5%) felt that headache was an important part of their practice. Many neurologists (65.0%) used neuroim- aging to evaluate patients with severe headache and 44.7% used electroencephalography for headache evaluation. Many participants knew that combination analgesic was a common cause of medication-overuse headache, but did not know that ergotamine, acetaminophen and triptans were possible aetiologies of medication-overuse headache. Our study suggests that awareness of medication- overuse headache and the indications of neuroimaging should be stressed in Taiwan, and headache guidelines should be modified according to local factors.
Urogynaecology: Collagen metabolism in the uterosacral ligaments and vaginal skin of women with uterine prolapse
Authors: Phillips Christian H , Anthony Fred , Benyon Chris , Monga Ash K
Published: October 2005

Objective  To compare tissue markers of collagen metabolism in the uterosacral ligaments with those in vaginal tissue in women with uterine prolapse.

Design  Prospective observational experimental study.

Setting  A tertiary urogynaecology unit.

Population  Women referred for hysterectomy for prolapse or benign gynaecological disease.

Methods  Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐2 and ‐9 expression, tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase (TIMP)‐2 expression and hydroxyproline content were measured in the uterosacral ligaments and vaginal tissue from 14 women with prolapse compared with 14 controls.

Main outcome measures  Levels of MMP, TIMP and hydroxyproline in the uterosacral ligaments and vaginal tissue of women with prolapse and controls.

Results  Fourteen women with prolapse and 14 women without prolapse (controls) were included. A significant increase in pro MMP‐2 expression was seen in vaginal tissue from women with prolapse (P < 0.05) but not activated MMP‐2, MMP‐9 and TIMP‐2. For uterosacral ligaments, the differences were not statistically significant. No significant difference in hydroxyproline content was found between control and prolapse in either tissue. Significant correlations exist in expression of pro‐MMP‐2, activated MMP‐2, MMP‐9 and TIMP‐2 in vaginal tissue with that in uterosacral ligaments.

Conclusions  Correlations existed between markers of collagen metabolism in the vaginal and uterosacral tissues. This suggests vaginal tissue reflects the endopelvic fascia. The changes which are more pronounced in vaginal tissue may be as a result of prolapse rather than cause.
Virtual Corridors for Conservation Management
Authors: PE'ER GUY , SALTZ DAVID , FRANK KARIN
Published: October 2005

Abstract: Corridors are usually perceived as clearly visible, linear landscape elements embedded in a hostile environment that connect two or more larger blocks of habitat. Animal response to certain aspects of landscape heterogeneity, however, can channel their movements into specific routes that may appear similar to their surroundings. These routes can be described as “virtual corridors” (VCs). Here we contribute to the foundation of the concept of VCs and highlight their implications for conservation management. We used an individual‐based model to analyze the formation of VCs in the case of hilltopping in butterflies—where males and virgin females ascend to hilltops and mate. We simulated butterfly movements in two different topographically heterogeneous landscapes. We analyzed the movement patterns with respect to one parameter, the intensity of response to topography. Virtual corridor structure depended on the behavioral parameter, landscape, and location of the source patch. Within a realistic range of the behavioral parameter and in a realistic landscape, VC structures may be complex and require individual‐based models for their elucidation.
Utility of Dynamic‐Landscape Metapopulation Models for Sustainable Forest Management
Authors: WINTLE BRENDAN A. , BEKESSY SARAH A. , VENIER LISA A. , PEARCE JENNIE L. , CHISHOLM RYAN A.
Published: October 2005

Abstract:  We evaluated the utility of combining metapopulation models with landscape‐level forest‐dynamics models to assess the sustainability of forest management practices. We used the Brown Creeper (Certhia americana) in the boreal forests of northern Ontario as a case study. We selected the Brown Creeper as a potential indicator of sustainability because it is relatively common in the region but is dependent on snags and old trees for nesting and foraging; hence, it may be sensitive to timber harvesting. For the modeling we used RAMAS Landscape, a software package that integrates RAMAS GIS, population‐modeling software, and LANDIS, forest‐dynamics modeling software. Predictions about the future floristic composition and structure of the landscape under a variety of management and natural disturbance scenarios were derived using LANDIS. We modeled eight alternative forest management scenarios, ranging in intensity from no timber harvesting and a natural fire regime to intensive timber harvesting with salvage logging after fire. We predicted the response of the Brown Creeper metapopulation over a 160‐year period and used future population size and expected minimum population size to compare the sustainability of the various management scenarios. The modeling methods were easy to apply and model predictions were sensitive to the differences among management scenarios, indicating that these methods may be useful for assessing and ranking the sustainability of forest management options. Primary concerns about the method are the practical difficulties associated with incorporating fire stochasticity in prediction uncertainty and the number of model assumptions that must be made and tested with sensitivity analysis. We wrote new software to help quantify the contribution of landscape stochasticity to model prediction uncertainty.
Body Mass Index Is Inversely Related to Mortality in Older People After Adjustment for Waist Circumference
Authors: Janssen Ian , Katzmarzyk Peter T. , Ross Robert
Published: October 2005

Objectives: To examine the individual and combined influence of body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) on mortality risk in older people.

Design: Longitudinal cohort study.

Setting: Cardiovascular Health Study, a longitudinal study of cardiovascular disease and its risk factors in older people.

Participants: Five thousand two hundred men and women aged 65 and older.

Measurements: BMI and WC were measured at baseline. The risks of all‐cause mortality associated with BMI and WC were examined using Cox proportional hazards models over 9 years of follow‐up.

Results: When examined individually, BMI and WC were both negative predictors of mortality, but when BMI and WC were examined simultaneously, BMI was a negative predictor of mortality, whereas WC was a positive predictor of mortality. After controlling for WC, mortality risk decreased 21% for every standard deviation increase in BMI. After controlling for BMI, mortality risk increased 13% for every standard deviation increase in WC. The patterns of associations were consistent by sex, age, and disease status.

Conclusion: Higher BMI values indicated a lower mortality risk once the risk attributable to WC was accounted for, whereas higher WC values indicate a higher mortality risk once the risk attributable to BMI was accounted for. Both BMI and WC should be measured in the clinical setting, but in older adults higher BMI is associated with lower mortality rates.
QT Dispersion and Heart Rate Variability Abnormalities in Alzheimer's Disease and in Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Zulli Roberto , Nicosia Franco , Borroni Barbara , Agosti Chiara , Prometti Paola , Donati Paolo , De Vecchi Massimiliano , Romanelli Giuseppe , Grassi Vittorio , Padovani Alessandro
Published: October 2005

Objectives: To investigate the effect of cardiovascular changes (i.e., QT interval, QT dispersion (QTD), heart rate variability (HRV), and other cardiovascular measures) in subjects with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

Design: Each subject underwent clinical and cognitive examination, a structural brain imaging study, echocardioDoppler, electrocardiogram (ECG), HRV analysis using 24‐hour ECG monitoring, and 24‐hour blood pressure monitoring.

Setting: Community population‐based sample of patients admitted to an AD center for investigation of cognitive disturbances.

Participants: Thirty‐three subjects with AD, 39 subjects with MCI, and 29 cognitive healthy subjects (controls) matched for demographic characteristics, hypertensive condition, smoking habits, and laboratory parameters were enrolled consecutively.

Measurements: Clinical and cognitive examination, structural brain imaging study, echocardioDoppler, ECG, HRV analysis using 24‐hour ECG monitoring, and 24‐hour blood pressure monitoring.

Results: QTD and QT corrected dispersion mean values were significantly higher in patients with AD than in patients with MCI and controls and higher in patients with MCI than in controls. HRV time and domain parameters were lower in patients with AD than in patients with MCI and controls. No difference in other cardiovascular measures was found. QTD and HRV were found to be significantly correlated with the degree of cognitive impairment.

Conclusion: These findings support the presence of a peculiar neuroanatomic dysfunction in patients with AD and MCI that parallels the disease progression. These noninvasive parameters might prove to be powerful predictive tools in the worsening of cognitive function and mortality risk.
Relative sensitivities of licensed nucleic acid amplification tests for detection of viremia in early human immunodeficiency virus and hepatitis C virus infection
Authors: Busch Michael P. , Glynn Simone A. , Wright David J. , Hirschkorn Dale , Laycock Megan E. , McAuley Joan , Tu Yongling , Giachetti Cristina , Gallarda James , Heitman John , Kleinman Steven H. ,   National Heart, Lung, Blood Institute Nucleic Acid Test Study Group
Published: October 2005

BACKGROUND: Screening donors for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA is primarily performed on minipools (MPs) with one of two commercial nucleic acid amplification tests (NAT; Roche Molecular Systems; or Gen‐Probe/Chiron). We compared these assays with respect to detection of RNA in early HIV and HCV infection.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Twelve HIV plasma donor panels (116 serial samples) and 12 HCV panels (180 serial samples) were selected to optimally represent early viremia. Initial testing was performed in singlicate or triplicate on separately coded aliquots, both neat and at dilutions corresponding to MP screening (1:16 for Gen‐Probe; 1:24 for Roche); 20 additional replicates were performed when discordant results were observed. Odds ratios (ORs) comparing detection of RNA by different assays were derived with logistic regression models. Differences in window‐period closure and yields of assays in MP or individual‐donation (ID) format were estimated.

RESULTS: Differences in detection rates between Roche and Gen‐Probe NAT assays were small and only observed with samples with very‐low‐level viremia. ORs for detecting RNA by the Gen‐Probe versus the Roche assay were significant for HIV if conducted on MPs (1.8; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.3‐2.5) but not neat (1.0; 95% CI, 0.72‐1.4). Odds of detecting HCV RNA were higher if the Gen‐Probe assay was conducted either neat (2.3; 95% CI, 1.6‐3.2) or on MPs (4.0; 95% CI, 2.8‐5.8). These differences translated to <1 day window‐period closure and ≤1 infection per 20 million donations. In contrast, comparisons of ID versus MP assays were highly significant for both viruses (ORs for ID vs. MP ranged from 45.3 to 93.4), with projected yields of one to two additional infections per 10 million donations.

CONCLUSIONS: Differences in sensitivities of licensed NAT assays for HIV and HCV are very small and clinically insignificant, particularly when compared to differences of MP versus ID NAT screening.
Amelogenin control over apatite crystal growth is affected by the pH and degree of ionic saturation
Authors: Habelitz S , DenBesten PK , Marshall SJ , Marshall GW , Li W
Published: October 2005

Structured Abstract

Authors –  Habelitz S, DenBesten PK, Marshall SJ, Marshall GW, Li W

Objective –  To study the mechanisms which promote the interactions of amelogenin proteins with the forming mineral to establish suitable conditions for the biomimetic synthesis of enamel in vitro.

Design –  Saturated calcium phosphate solutions were used in conjunction with recombinant amelogenin proteins to induce mineral formation on glass‐ceramics substrates containing oriented fluoroapatite crystals (FAP). The height of mineral layers formed on these substrates within 24 h was measured by atomic force microscopy (AFM).

Experimental Variables –  The effect of protein concentration, pH and degree of saturation (DS) on the growth of apatite mineral was evaluated. Mineralization experiments were performed at 0, 0.4 and 1.6 mg/ml amelogenin concentrations. Mineralization solutions were used at pH values of 6.5, 7.4, 8.0 and 8.8 and DS of calcium and phosphate between 9 and 13.

Outcome Measure –  Height and morphology of mineralized layer formed on glass‐ceramic substrates as determined from AFM measurements.

Results –  Homogeneous nucleation and crystal growth of thin layers on the FAP were observed, when calcium and phosphate ions were added. The height of these layers grown on (001) planes of FAP was strongly dependent on the protein concentration and pH. At concentrations of 0 and 0.4 mg/ml crystal grew 5–15 nm on the FAP, while they grew approximately to 200 nm at 1.6 mg/ml. The enhanced crystal growth was observed only at pH 6.5, 7.4 and 8.0, while layers only 20 nm thick were obtained at pH 8.8. An increase in DS resulted in uncontrolled growth of calcium phosphate mineral covering large areas of the substrate.

Conclusions –  Protein concentration, pH and the saturation of the mineralizing solution need to be considered carefully to provide suitable conditions for amelogenin‐guided growth of apatite crystals.
Tooth developmental biology: disruptions to enamel‐matrix assembly and its impact on biomineralization
Authors: Paine ML , Snead ML
Published: October 2005

Authors – Paine ML, Snead ML

Dental enamel is a composite bioceramic material that is the hardest tissue in the vertebrate body, containing long, thin crystallites of substituted hydroxyapatite (HAP). Over a lifetime of an organism, enamel functions under repeated and immense loads, generally without catastrophic failure. Enamel is a product of ectoderm‐derived cells called ameloblasts. Recent investigations on the formation of enamel using cell and molecular approaches are now being coupled to biomechanical investigations at the nanoscale and mesoscale levels. For amelogenin, the principal structural protein for forming enamel, we have identified two domains that are required for its proper self‐assembly into supramolecular structures referred to as nanospheres. Nanospheres are believed to control HAP crystal habit. Other structural proteins of the enamel matrix include ameloblastin and enamelin, but little is known about their biological importance. Transgenic animals have been prepared to investigate the effect of overexpression of wild‐type or mutated enamel proteins on the developing enamel matrix. Amelogenin transgenes were engineered to contain deletions to either of the two self‐assembly domains and these alterations produced significant defects in the enamel. Additional transgenic animal lines have been prepared and studied and each gives additional insights into the mechanisms for enamel biofabrication. This study summarizes the observed enamel phenotypes of recently derived transgenic animals. These data are being used to help define the role of each of the enamel structural proteins in enamel and study how each of these proteins impact on enamel biomineralization.
Bone induction in craniofacial defects1
Authors: Nacamuli RP , Longaker MT
Published: October 2005

Authors – Nacamuli RP, Longaker MT

Reconstruction of craniofacial bony deficiencies, whether acquired through trauma or as a result of treatment for disease, is a chronic problem. Although numerous approaches utilizing a wide array of materials ranging from alloplastic materials to autogenous bone grafts have been employed to achieve bony replacement, no ideal clinical approach exists. In this brief review, we will provide an overview of current approaches to treating craniofacial bony defects. We will then discuss advances being made in the design of scaffolding materials and potential candidate cell types with which to design tissue‐engineered constructs for craniofacial skeletal repair.
Tissue engineering of bone: search for a better scaffold
Authors: Mastrogiacomo M , Muraglia A , Komlev V , Peyrin F , Rustichelli F , Crovace A , Cancedda R
Published: October 2005

Structured Abstract

Authors –  Mastrogiacomo M, Muraglia A, Komlev V, Peyrin F, Rustichelli F, Crovace A, Cancedda R

Background –  Large bone defects still represent a major problem in orthopedics. Traditional bone‐repair treatments can be divided into two groups: the bone transport (Ilizarov technology) and the graft transplant (autologous or allogeneic bone grafts). Thus far, none of these strategies have proven to be always resolving. As an alternative, a tissue engineering approach has been proposed where osteogenic cells, bioceramic scaffolds, growth factors and physical forces concur to the bone defect repair. Different sources of osteoprogenitor cells have been suggested, bone marrow stromal cells (BMSC) being in most cases the first choice.

Methods and Results –  In association with mineral tridimensional scaffolds, BMSC form a primary bone tissue which is highly vascularized and colonized by host hemopoietic marrow. The chemical composition of the scaffold is crucial for the osteoconductive properties and the resorbability of the material. In addition, scaffolds should have an internal structure permissive for vascular invasion. Porous bioceramics [hydroxyapatite (HA) and tricalcium phosphate] are osteoconductive and are particularly advantageous for bone tissue engineering application as they induce neither an immune nor an inflammatory response in the implanted host. Earlier, we first reported a cell‐based tissue engineering procedure to treat three patients with long bone segmental defects. Cells were loaded on a 100% HA porous ceramic. These scaffolds proved to have good osteoconductive properties resulting in a good functional recovery, but they have not been resorbed after more than 5 years from the implant. In addition, due to the high density of the mineral and the relatively low porosity (50–60%), it was very difficult to monitor the patient recovery during the post‐surgery time using X‐rays.

Conclusions –  We report here some pre‐clinical testing of new scaffolds. To compare these second generation ceramic scaffolds more suitable for a tissue engineering approach we had to first establish animal models and analysis procedures including the use of X‐ray‐computed microtomography associated with X‐rays synchroton radiation.
Anticonvulsant and Behavioural Effects of the Denatured Venom of the Social Wasp Polybia occidentalis (Polistinae, Vespidae)
Authors: Mortari Márcia Renata , Cunha Alexandra Olimpio Siqueira , De Oliveira Luciana , Vieira Eveline Bis , Gelfuso Erica Aparecida , Coutinho‐Netto Joaquim , Ferreira dos Santos Wagner
Published: October 2005

Abstract: Several investigations demonstrate that neurotoxins isolated from venoms of spiders and wasps may exert specific and selective activity on structures of the mammalian CNS. In the present work we examine the neurological effects of the low molecular weight compounds of the denatured venom of the neotropical social wasp Polybia occidentalis in freely moving rats. Central administration of denatured venom decreased the duration of exploratory, elevation and grooming behaviours on the open field. Moreover, denatured venom inhibited convulsing action of bicuculline (ED50 57 μg/μl), picrotoxin (ED50 75 μg/μl) and kainic acid (ED50 44 μg/μl), although it was ineffective against pentylenetetrazole‐induced seizures. Despite of its inhibitory activity, toxic effects on motor performance examined in the rotarod test were not found, not even in extremely high doses. Also, denatured venom moderately reduced the spontaneous locomotor activity at anticonvulsant doses. These findings may indicate that the denatured venom has anticonvulsant activity with scarce propensity to cause neurological side‐effects. Further studies are necessary to isolate the active compound and establish its mechanism of action.
Bibliometric Methods: Pitfalls and Possibilities
Authors: Wallin Johan A.
Published: October 2005

Abstract: Bibliometric studies are increasingly being used for research assessment. Bibliometric indicators are strongly methodology‐dependent but for all of them, various types of data normalization are an indispensable requirement. Bibliometric studies have many pitfalls; technical skill, critical sense and a precise knowledge about the examined scientific domain are required to carry out and interpret bibliometric investigations correctly.
Reduction of Homocysteine in Elderly with Heart Failure Improved Vascular Function and Blood Pressure Control but did Not Affect Inflammatory Activity
Authors: Andersson Sven E. , Edvinsson Marie‐Louise , Edvinsson Lars
Published: October 2005

Abstract: We have previously shown that hyperhomocysteinaemia is common in elderly heart failure patients, and is associated with endothelial dysfunction, impaired vasodilatory capacity and a low‐grade inflammation. In the present study we examined if supplementation with B6, B12 and folate could normalize the hyperhomocysteinaemia and if so, in turn, would improve the associated parameters. This was an open study without placebo control on heart failure patients with plasma homocysteine > 15 μM. Measurements of cutaneous vascular reactivity, blood pressure, inflammatory activity and endothelial function were performed before and after intervention with intra‐individual comparisons. The treatment reduced homocysteine to near normal values and enhanced the hyperaemic response to acetylcholine related to the response to heat. The mean arterial blood pressure and pulse rate was reduced. There was no effect on inflammatory activity, plasma levels of von Willebrand factor, subjective health quality or the hyperaemic responses to sodium nitroprusside or local warming. Hyperhomocysteinaemia in heart failure patients is multifactorial in origin. Folate deficiency, inflammatory activity and reduced renal function could be contributing. It is suggested that supplementation with B‐vitamins can improve the vasodilatory capacity and reduce the blood pressure but additional studies are required to confirm this.
Activity of d,l‐α‐Tocopherol (Vitamin E) against Cardiotoxicity Induced by Doxorubicin and Doxorubicin with Cyclophosphamide in Mice
Authors: Bjelogrlic Snezana K. , Radic Jelena , Jovic Viktor , Radulovic Sinisa
Published: October 2005

Abstract:The aim of this study was to investigate the cardioprotective activity of vitamin E against doxorubicin alone and doxorubicin in combination with cyclophosphamide in mice. Female BalbC/NIH mice were treated with vitamin E (100 IU/kg, orally) 24 hr before single bolus doses of doxorubicin (10 mg/kg, intravenously), or doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide (150 mg/kg, intraperitoneally). Non‐treated animals served as negative controls, while positive control groups received doxorubicin or doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide. For evaluation, serum enzyme activity of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), lactate dehidrogenase (LDH), α‐hydroxybutirate dehydrogenase (α‐HBDH), and creatine kinase (CK) at 48 hr and histopathology examination of the heart tissue (Billigham rules) at 1.5 and 3 months followed to treatments were used. In sera of mice treated with vitamin E prior to doxorubicin, the creatine kinase and % α‐HBDH activity were significantly reduced, compared to positive control. Histopathology changes (scored as 1.5 at 1.5 and 3 months respectively) were not significant compared to negative control at both time points of examination. In animals which received vitamin E before doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide, none of the serum enzymes was significantly reduced compared to positive control, but non‐significant increase in AST and creatine kinase activity was detected (3% and 16.57% respectively). The degree of myocardial damage was significantly higher compared to non‐treated group (2.0 and 2.5 at 1.5 and 3 months respectively). Current results show that vitamin E in single oral dose failed to inhibit acute cardiotoxic activity of doxorubicin, but suspended further progression of the heart muscle damage over the time. On the contrary, vitamin E did not attain any cardioprotection against doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide in combination.
Cadmium Effects on Brain Acetylcholinesterase Activity and Antioxidant Status of Adult Rats: Modulation by Zinc, Calcium and L‐Cysteine Co‐Administration
Authors: Carageorgiou Haris , Tzotzes Vassilios , Sideris Antonios , Zarros Apostolos , Tsakiris Stylianos
Published: October 2005

Abstract: We have previously reported that cadmium (Cd) as 3CdSO4 · 8H2O decreases rat brain total antioxidant status and L‐cysteine (Cys) has a protective effect against it. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of subacute Cd administration, either alone or (almost simultaneously) with zinc (Zn), calcium (Ca) and Cys, on brain acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity and brain total antioxidant status in male adult rats. All substances were administered intraperitoneally. Cadmium (1 mg/kg/day for 14 days) increased AChE activity (+46%; P<0.001) and decreased total antioxidant status (−29%; P<0.001). Zinc and Ca (both 1 mg/kg/day for 14 days) increased AChE activity (+18%; P<0.01 and +53%; P<0.001) and caused no changes on rat brain total antioxidant status. L‐Cysteine (7 mg/kg/day for 14 days) impressively increased AChE activity (+185%; P<0.001) and augmented total antioxidant status (+26%; P<0.001). In the groups of Zn+Cd, Ca+Cd and Cys+Cd co‐administration, AChE activity remained high (+42%; P<0.001, +41%; P<0.001 and +141%; P<0.001 respectively), while total antioxidant status returned to the saline control levels. L‐Cysteine given before a toxic dose of Cd (5 mg/kg) resulted in high AChE activity (+85%; P<0.001), a total antioxidant status similar to the control values, and survival of the treated rats. In conclusion, Cd increased brain AChE activity and decreased brain total antioxidant status of adult male rats. Zinc, Ca and Cys, given just before Cd administration, modified the Cd‐induced effects and restored rat brain total antioxidant status to the control levels.
Diagnostic and Therapeutic Value of Short‐Term Corticosteroid Therapy in Exacerbation of Mustard Gas‐Induced Chronic Bronchitis
Authors: Ghanei Mostafa , Khalili Ali Reza Hosseini , Arab Mohamad Javad , Mojtahedzadeh Mojtaba , Aslani Jafar , Lessan‐Pezeshki Mahbob , Panahi Yunes , Alaeddini Farshid
Published: October 2005

Abstract: Chronic bronchitis is the most frequent late respiratory disease among Iranians exposed to mustard gas during the Iraq‐Iran war. The aim of this study was to investigate efficacy of oral and intravenous corticosteroid therapy in improving lung function in mustard gas induced chronic bronchitis patients. 65 mustard gas‐exposed chronic bronchitis patients, who were not responsive to standard treatments in exacerbation occasions, were randomly divided into two groups: an intravenous group (39 patients) receiving 500 mg intravenous methylprednisolone daily, and an oral group (26 patients) receiving 1 mg/kg oral prednisolone daily. Corticosteroid was tapered over the study period in both groups. Spirometery was performed on admission and on day 8 of therapy for assessment of effectiveness of therapy. There was significant improvement in spirometery indexes of both groups in approximately half of the patients over the study period. Furthermore, there was no difference between the pulse corticosteroid versus oral corticosteroid therapy in these patients. Since short‐term corticosteroid therapy has a significant effect on lung function of almost fifty percent of patients with mustard gas‐induced chronic bronchitis in exacerbation occasions, we suggest a short‐term bolus steroid treatment to triage the patients into responders and non‐responders for subsequent treatment.
Methylene Blue-Guided Repair of Fractured Penis
Authors: Shaeer Osama
Published: October 2005

Introduction

Fracture of the penis is a condition where excessive force applied to the long axis of the penis in the erect state results in rupture of the tunica albuginea of the corpus cavernosum. Surgical management can be confusing and time-consuming due to the concealment of the tear in organized blood and edematous tissue, necessitating extensive dissection in friable traumatized tissues, especially if the tear is a small one, or if there are multiple tears.

Aim

The present work investigates the value of methylene blue in aiding the localization of tunical and urethral tears in such cases.

Patients and Methods

Twelve cases with delayed presentation of fracture penis were managed. In six patients, methylene blue was injected into the corpora cavernosa and through the urethral meatus to point out tears. In the other six patients, methylene blue was not used.

Main Outcome Measures

Operative time and complication rate.

Results

Operative time was considerably less in the group that received methylene blue, and the repair was more straightforward. Complications issued only in the group that did not receive methylene blue considering the extensive lengthy dissection.

Conclusion

Methylene blue-guided repair for trauma of the penis is an easy, reliable, safe, and fast method for spotting tears in the tunica albuginea of the corpora cavernosa or in the urethra, eliminating the need for unnecessary lengthening.
Early Photo-Illustration of a Hermaphrodite by the French Photographer and Artist Nadar in 1860
Authors: Schultheiss Dirk , Herrmann Thomas R.W. , Jonas Udo
Published: October 2005

As early as 1860 the French photographer Gaspard Félix Tournachon, called Nadar (1820–1910), took a series of nine photographs depicting a young intersex patient. These illustrations were not published at their time and little is known about the patient and the role of the physicians involved in this case. The article discusses the available information on these artworks that today belong to the photographic collection of the Musée d’Orsay in Paris.
The Correlation Between Erectile Function and Patient Satisfaction
Authors: Teloken Patrick , Valenzuela Rolando , Parker Marilyn , Mulhall John
Published: October 2005

Introduction

The International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) has become the gold standard inventory for the assessment of sexual function in drug trials and in clinical research. Normalization of the erectile function domain (EFD) score, an end of treatment score of 26 or higher, is an end-point that is currently being used routinely in drug trials. It has been our experience that some men with scores less that 26 on a sexual pharmaceutical are content with their sexual function. We undertook this study to define what proportion of men with EFD scores <26 are satisfied with their therapeutic response.

Methods

100 consecutive patients who had presented to a sexual health clinic and who had used sildenafil citrate on at least 4 occasions completed the IIEF pertaining to their sildenafil response. They were also asked questions, pertaining to their ability to have sexual intercourse (Q1), their satisfaction with their erectogenic medication (Q2), the ability of the medication to improve erectile rigidity (Q3), and the ability of the medication to improve their ability to have sexual intercourse (Q4). Patients were subcategorized into 4 groups based on treatment IIEF scores (≥26, 22–25, 18–21, and 11–17). The IIEF scores were compared to the responses to the global assessment questions.

Main Outcome Measures

The mean patient age was 58 ± 22 years. For Q1 and Q2, for each subcategory, there was a significant difference in the percentage of men answering definitely, somewhat, or not at all. In the group with EFD scores 22–25, 67% agreed at least somewhat with Q1 and 66% with Q2. In this group 84% and 78% responded in the affirmative to Q3 and Q4, respectively. No patient with an EFD score <22 definitely agreed with Q1 or Q2.

Conclusion

These data indicate that a significant proportion of patients with EFD scores 21–25 can have sexual relations that are satisfactory and that they are satisfied with their erectogenic medication.
Sexual Behaviors and Mental Perception, Satisfaction and Expectations of Sex Life in Men and Women in France
Authors: Colson Marie-Hélène , Lemaire Antoine , Pinton Philippe , Hamidi Karim , Klein Patrick
Published: October 2005

Aim

To analyze behaviors, mental perception, satisfaction, and expectations relating to sexuality in France.

Methods

A total of 1,002 subjects (483 men and 519 women) aged 35 years and over in a representative sample of the French population were surveyed by phone using a dedicated questionnaire in November 2003.

Main Outcome Measures

Sexual behaviors and mental perception, satisfaction and expectations concerning sexual life.

Results

Of the population, 80.2% reported having a sexual partner. The mean number of times subjects had sex per week was 1.8 (2.0 in men, 1.6 in women). The decision preceded the act by a few seconds or minutes in 82.7% of subjects. Thinking about sex was “frequent” in 47.1% of subjects, especially for men (60.8%). Regardless of gender, sexuality was more synonymous with pleasure (44.0%) and love (42.1%) than with procreation, children, or motherhood (7.8%). During sexual intercourse, simultaneous orgasms and feelings of closeness were important for the majority of subjects, 35.8% (41.6% of men) and 22.8%, respectively; foreplay, enjoyment, and vaginal penetration were the most important accomplishments for 13.1%. Regardless of gender, 83.0% of subjects expressed relative or full satisfaction with their sex life. However, only 38.7% of subjects (31.6% of men and 45.2% of women) did not wish to change anything, while 17.2% would like to have more time for it. Of the subjects, 63.0% reported a decrease in sexual desire during periods of work-related stress, especially in women (72.3%). The main sexual complaints reported by men were diminution of sexual desire (24.9%), early ejaculation (23.7%), and erectile problems (14.4%). In women, they were diminution of sexual desire (45.7%), orgasm disorders (15.5%), and dyspareunia (15.5%).

Conclusions

This survey showed that the attitude of subjects, especially men, toward sexuality is changing through years and highlighted the extent of sexual problems in the general population.
Using retrograde motion to understand and determine orbital parameters
Authors: Thompson Bruce G.
Published: October 2005

The path of a planet on the celestial sphere when undergoing retrograde motion has a rich variety of forms that depend on the shape and orientation of its orbit and the timing of its opposition with the Earth. The observation of many retrograde paths can be used to determine the parameters of an external tilted elliptical orbit using only geometry and trigonometry. This approach fosters understanding of the geometrical significance of the orbital parameters and their role in determining the path of the planet on the celestial sphere.
Sarah Frances Whiting: A foremother of American women physicists
Authors: Stahl Frieda A.
Published: October 2005

Sarah Frances Whiting taught physics and astronomy at Wellesley College from 1876 to 1916 and developed the first physics laboratory classes for female students. She was elected a fellow of AAAS in 1883 and received an honorary D. Sc. from Tufts University in 1905. I review her accomplishments and discuss some of the barriers that she had to overcome.
Fluctuation theory of thermal acoustic radiation
Authors: Barabanenkov Yurii N. , Passechnick Victor I.
Published: October 2005

Wave statistical theory of the thermal acoustic radiation in a medium is presented on the basis of a model of hydrodynamic fluctuations. The wave stochastic equation is derived for the pressure fluctuations with given random mechanical forces. This theory is applied to the problems of the thermal fluctuations of the pressure in (1) an unbounded medium and (2) an acoustic resonator while taking into account the directivity diagram of a transducer. In the case of a resonator, the conditions for measuring of separate resonance peaks are estimated depending on the ratio of the transducer and the resonator dimensions and values of absorption of a medium.
Diffraction by the edge of a three-dimensional object
Authors: Tran Van Nhieu Michel
Published: October 2005

The matched asymptotic expansions method is applied to investigate the problem of diffraction by the edge of a three-dimensional body at high frequencies. The present approach is an extension of a theory which was originally elaborated for plane screens [J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 97, 796–806 (1995)]. The theoretical analysis provides an asymptotic solution which is a refinement of physical optics by the addition of two edge components as in the physical theory of diffraction. Explicit and simple approximate solutions are derived to calculate the edge line integrals leading to a practical integrative procedure that is well suited to complex curved edges and that can overcome some disadvantages of ray theories. Last, the problem of diffraction by a finite cylinder is analyzed and a comparison with other asymptotic methods is shown.
A hybrid ray–mode (wavefront–resonance) approach for analyzing acoustic radiation and scattering by submerged structures
Authors: Lu I-Tai
Published: October 2005

This paper discusses a hybrid ray–mode (wavefront–resonance) approach to analyze wave radiation and scattering by fluid loaded targets with internal structures. The approach consists of the following three methods: (1) coupling of plate and shell modes at joints and junctions; (2) spectral approaches (such as ray asymptotics, collective rays, guided modes, resonances, ray modes, etc.) for separable and weakly nonseparable structures; (3) a combination of methods (1) and (2) for nonseparable structures. The general theory is applied to a prototype structure of revolution consisting of a cylindrical pipe, hemispherical endcaps, a bulkhead, and a rib. First a conventional surface ray–normal mode approach is applied to the normal coordinate of each shell element, reducing the submerged structure into an equivalent multilayer–multiwave medium in the lateral domain. A matrix Green’s-function formulation is then employed to systematically synthesize the acoustic radiation or scattering returns in terms of angular spectra of surface modes of the structural elements. This allows efficient bookkeeping of various spectral objects such as ray, collective ray, modes, ray–mode, resonance, etc., to be maintained.
Nonlinear analysis of environmental distortions of continuous wave signals in the ocean
Authors: Frison Theodore W. , Abarbanel Henry D. I. , Cembrola Joan , Katz Richard
Published: October 2005

Data from an underwater continuous wave signal are analyzed using methods derived from the study of chaotic systems. Distortions by the environment effectively add three degrees of freedom (dimensions) to the signal. The dimension required to reconstruct and analyze the received data is five in contrast to a pure tonal or sine wave that only requires two dimensions. The data are examined with a chaotic data analysis toolkit that includes determination of degrees of freedom using local and global false-nearest-neighbor statistics, average mutual information, correlation dimension, and local Lyapunov exponents. These results are important for the development of methods for correction of propagation distortions and nonlinear noise reduction algorithms. Application of this knowledge should lead to improvements in the detection and classification of underwater signals.