bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Testosterone Partially Ameliorates Metabolic Profile and Erectile Responsiveness to PDE5 Inhibitors in an Animal Model of Male Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Filippi Sandra , Vignozzi Linda , Morelli Annamaria , Chavalmane Aravinda K. , Sarchielli Erica , Fibbi Benedetta , Saad Farid , Sandner Peter , Ruggiano Peggy , Vannelli Gabriella B. , Mannucci Edoardo , Maggi Mario 
Published: September 2009

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a clustering of cardio-metabolic risk factors (hyperglycemia, hypertension, dyslipidemia, visceral fat accumulation) that is also associated with hypogonadism and erectile dysfunction (ED).

Aim
To clarify the relationships among MetS, hypogonadism, and ED, we developed an animal model of MetS.

Methods
Male rabbits fed a high-fat diet (HFD), with or without testosterone (T) supplementation, were compared with control rabbits (fed a standard chow) and with rabbits made hypogonadal by a single injection of a long-acting GnRH-analog, triptorelin.

Main Outcome Measures
Evaluation of metabolic disturbances (plasma glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, testosterone, LH, FSH level, glucose tolerance, mean arterial pressure, visceral fat accumulation), and corpora cavernosa (CC) relaxant capacity (in vitro contractility study) in HFD animals as compared with control, GnRH analog-treated rabbits, and T-supplemented HFD rabbits.

Results
HFD rabbits showed all the features of MetS. HFD induced hypogonadotropic hypogonadism is characterized by a reduction of plasma T, FSH, LH levels, testis and seminal vesicles weight, and testicular steroidogenic enzymes. Such a phenotype is similar to that induced by triptorelin administration. A reduced GnRH immunopositivity in hypothalamus suggests a central origin of HFD-related hypogonadism. HFD also induced penile alterations, as demonstrated by a reduction of acetylcholine-and electrical field stimulation-induced CC relaxation, hyper-responsiveness to the NO donor, SNP, and unresponsiveness to PDE5 inhibitors. Similar penile alterations were observed in triptorelin treated rabbit. In HFD, as well as in triptorelin treated rabbits, PDE5 and eNOS mRNA expression quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) were significantly decreased. T administration prevented almost all penile alterations observed in HFD rabbits. T treatment dramatically reduced HFD-induced visceral obesity, partially ameliorating also the metabolic profile.

Conclusion
We have developed an animal model of MetS associated with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and penile alterations including unresponsiveness to PDE5 inhibitors. T supplementation was able to partially revert HFD-induced phenotype.
Vardenafil can Improve Continence Recovery after Bilateral Nerve Sparing Prostatectomy: Results of a Randomized, Double Blind, Placebo-Controlled Pilot Study
Authors: Gacci Mauro , Ierardi Alessandro , Rose Augusto Delle , Tazzioli Stefano , Scapaticci Emanuele , Filippi Sandra , Maggi Mario , Nicita Giulio , Carini Marco , Montorsi Francesco 
Published: September 2009

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5-I) have acquired an established role in the treatment of post-prostatectomy erectile dysfunction (ED). Several trials in men with ED and lower urinary tract symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia suggest that PDE5-I could improve both erectile function and urinary symptoms.

Aim
To assess the role of vardenafil in continence recovery after bilateral nerve sparing radical prostatectomy (BNS-RP).

Methods
Thirty-nine patients with prostate cancer were recruited. After BNS-RP, patients were double-blinded assigned to three arms: a) vardenafil on demand; b) vardenafil nightly; and c) placebo.

Main Outcomes Measures
Urinary function (UF) and urinary bother (UB) of University of California–Los Angeles Prostate Cancer Index questionnaire were assessed preoperatively and at 1, 3, 6, 9, 10, and 12 months. Twelve-month outcomes were compared to 1 month with a t-test. The differences in UF and UB (at 3, 6, 9, 10, and 12 months) between the three treatment arms were calculated by an analysis of variance. With ALLFIT we estimated half-maximal recovery times (ER50) and maximal recovery (Rmax) in three groups.

Results
The improvement of UF and UB between 1 and 12 months was significant in all arms except for placebo (UF: P = 0.125; UB: P = 0.089). Nightly resulted in greater UF at 3, 6, and 9 months and greater UB at 6 months compared with placebo (P = 0.042, P = 0.044 and P = 0.039); after nightly administration, patients presented higher UB than after on-demand use, 3 and 6 months postoperatively (P = 0.036 and P = 0.017). ALLFIT demonstrated a similar ER50 in all groups (2.6 months for both UF and UB) and indicated that nightly administration induced significant improvements in Rmax compared with placebo (both &lt;0.0001).

Conclusions
Vardenafil can improve continence recovery after BNS-RP compared with placebo. The daily use of vardenafil seems to provide better continence rate, although it does not seem to influence the timing needed to achieve full continence.
Risks and benefits of parent/child bed sharing
Authors: Sobralske Mary C. , Gruber Megan E. 
Published: September 2009

AbstractPurpose:To recognize the concerns for and against parent/child bed‐sharing (co‐sleeping) practices.Data sources:Review of the literature and the clinical experiences of the authors.Conclusions:The decision to bed share ultimately lies with the parent, but it is the responsibility of the nurse practitioner (NP) to discuss risks and benefits of parent preferences and to help families make a safe decision regarding the sleeping arrangement for their child.Implications for practice:If NPs know the benefits and risks regarding co‐sleeping and bed sharing, they can better promote safe and culturally congruent family centered care.
Emerging concepts in cardiovascular disease risk assessment: Where do women fit in?
Authors: Gleeson Deborah , Crabbe Deborah L. 
Published: September 2009

AbstractPurpose: To highlight the current limitations in the assessment of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk for women. This article will offer the reader information on the current process for assessing CVD risk in women, the pitfalls associated with this current strategy, and the role of novel risk factors.Data sources: Extensive review of the medical literature in the area of women's cardiovascular health.Conclusions: The assessment of CVD risk for women is currently an evolving science. Limitations in the ability of the Framingham score to accurately estimate risk in women from diverse populations are increasingly recognized. Vastly different treatment goals between the genders for similar levels of risk factors have led to a re‐evaluation of this strategy in women. While the Framingham score is still useful for guiding cholesterol treatment goals, the current preventive guidelines for women emphasize assessing a woman's risk throughout her lifetime. The future development of tools for improved risk stratification that incorporate novel risk factors may in fact improve our ability to appropriately risk stratify women to evidence‐based therapies.Implications for practice: Utilizing the Framingham Risk Assessment Tool and further CVD risk stratification using novel markers such as high sensitivity C‐reactive protein, family history, and functional capacity may identify unique subsets of women at higher risk for CVD. Nurse practitioners can be instrumental in this assessment, education, and treatment of women at risk for CVD.
Level of autonomy of primary care nurse practitioners
Authors: Bahadori Alex , Fitzpatrick Joyce J. 
Published: September 2009

AbstractPurpose: The purpose of this descriptive study was to determine the level of autonomy of nurse practitioners (NPs) providing care to patients in a primary care setting.Data sources: Data were collected from 48 primary care NPs (PCNPs) who attended a state clinical conference. The Dempster Practice Behavior Scale (DPBS) was used to measure the autonomy of the NPs.Conclusions: The total mean score for the DPBS in this study was 127 (SD = 10.25), indicating a very high level of autonomy of the NPs. The Empowerment subscale had the lowest overall mean score, and the Valuation subscale had the highest. There was no statistically significant relationship between level of autonomy and age, years worked as an RN, and years worked as an NP.Implications for practice: This study provided evidence that PCNPs are highly autonomous professionals and continue to struggle with empowerment. NPs educationally prepared with a better knowledge of legal and political issues will be better suited to influence healthcare reform. NPs, as autonomous professionals, will be more likely to impact and shape future healthcare policy.
Culturally tailored education to promote lifestyle change in Mexican Americans with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Vincent Deborah 
Published: September 2009

AbstractPurpose: The purpose of this article is to report the results of a culturally tailored diabetes intervention for Mexican Americans on physical activity and to report the results of a focus group with intervention participants.Data sources: Seventeen Mexican American subjects with type 2 diabetes participated in the study. The study used a pretest/posttest control group design with 10 subjects in each group (N = 20). Outcome measures included the number of steps walked weekly, weight, and body mass index (BMI). Pedometers were used to measure the daily number of steps in the intervention group. A focus group provided data on participant satisfaction.Conclusions: Results suggest a positive effect of the intervention on physical activity level, weight, and sense of control over diabetes self‐management. Intervention participants had a statistically significant increase in the number of steps walked per day and a statistically significant mean weight loss of five pounds. Focus group results indicate that participants were satisfied with the culturally tailored intervention and that they and their families benefited from the intervention.Implications for practice: A culturally tailored diabetes self‐management program may result in improved outcomes for Mexican Americans with type 2 diabetes.
Female sexual dysfunction: A primary care perspective
Authors: Zakhari Raymond 
Published: September 2009

AbstractPurpose: To discuss the incidence and prevalence of sexual dysfunction among women, some common etiologies, and patient–provider relationships that seem to inhibit successful resolution of female sexual dysfunction.Data sources: A selective review of the literature on female sexual dysfunction, and an overview of assessment tools that can be used to evaluate and monitor its treatment.Conclusion: Sexual dysfunction in women is a health issue often overlooked by medical personnel, but it is a topic of great importance to both the patient and her sexual partner(s). It has been well established that quality of sex, that is, satisfaction with one's sex life, is a major quality‐of‐life indicator. But specifically as concerns the female patient, the issue has been overlooked by much of the healthcare community, perhaps because the topic of female sexual dysfunction is multifaceted and complex in nature.Implications for practice: Clinicians have an obligation to develop self‐awareness and clinical intuition to address the topic in the utmost professional manner.
Mechanisms of fibrinogen‐induced microvascular dysfunction during cardiovascular disease
Authors: Lominadze D. , Dean W. L. , Tyagi S. C. , Roberts A. M. 
Published: September 2009

AbstractFibrinogen (Fg) is a high molecular weight plasma adhesion protein and a biomarker of inflammation. Many cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disorders are accompanied by increased blood content of Fg. Increased levels of Fg result in changes in blood rheological properties such as increases in plasma viscosity, erythrocyte aggregation, platelet thrombogenesis, alterations in vascular reactivity and compromises in endothelial layer integrity. These alterations exacerbate the complications in peripheral blood circulation during cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, diabetes and stroke. In addition to affecting blood viscosity by altering plasma viscosity and erythrocyte aggregation, growing experimental evidence suggests that Fg alters vascular reactivity and impairs endothelial cell layer integrity by binding to its endothelial cell membrane receptors and activating signalling mechanisms. The purpose of this review is to discuss experimental data, which demonstrate the effects of Fg causing vascular dysfunction and to offer possible mechanisms for these effects, which could exacerbate microcirculatory complications during cardiovascular diseases accompanied by increased Fg content.
Autoantibody Detection Using Indirect Immunofluorescence on HEp‐2 Cells
Authors: Sack Ulrich , Conrad Karsten , Csernok Elena , Frank Ingrid , Hiepe Falk , Krieger Thorsten , Kromminga Arno , Von Landenberg Philipp , Messer Gerald , Witte Torsten , Mierau Rudolf ,   for the German EASI (European Autoimmunity Standardization Initiative)
Published: September 2009

The detection of autoantibodies is an important element in the diagnosis and monitoring of disease progression in patients with autoimmune diseases. In laboratory diagnostic tests for connective tissue and autoimmune liver diseases, indirect immunofluorescence on HEp‐2 cells plays a central role in a multistage diagnostic process. Despite the high quality of diagnostics, findings at different laboratories can differ considerably due to a lack of standardization, as well as subjective factors.The present paper formulates recommendations for the standardized processing and interpretation of the HEp‐2 cell test for the detection of non‐organ‐specific (especially antinuclear) antibodies. It provides requirements regarding the diagnostic tests used, instructions for laboratory procedure and evaluation, and recommendations for interpretation. For an optimal laboratory diagnostic process, it is useful to have an informative, tentative clinical diagnosis and an experienced laboratory diagnostician. In addition, the following key elements are recommended: initial screening using indirect immunofluorescence on carefully chosen HEp‐2 cells beginning with a serum dilution of 1:80 and evaluation under a microscope with powerful illumination; results from a titer of 1:160 upwards being considered positive; internal laboratory quality control; and standardized interpretation. The aim is to improve diagnostic tests and care of patients with autoimmune diseases as a central concern of the European Autoimmunity Standardization Initiative (EASI).
The present role of corticosteroids in uveitis
Authors: KHAIRALLAH M 
Published: September 2009

AbstractCorticosteroids are the most widely used anti‐inflammatory and immunosuppressant drugs in ophthalmology in general, and remain the mainstay of therapy for patients with uveitis.An infectious etiology for intraocular inflammation should be adequately excluded or appropriately covered with anti‐infectious therapy before administration of corticosteroid therapy. Topical corticosteroids alone are usually effective in the management of anterior uveitis and have little activity against intermediate or posterior uveitis. Ocular adverse effects of topical steroid therapy mainly include ocular hypertension and cataract. The use of periocular steroid injections (subconjunctival, anterior or posterior subtenon, orbital floor) are important modalities in the management of anterior uveitis refractory to topical treatment and intermediate or posterior uveitis, particularly unilateral cases. Systemic corticosteroids remain the initial drug of choice for most patients with severe bilateral intermediate or posterior uveitis. Therapy is initiated with 1.0 to 2.0 mg/Kg of oral prednisone or prednisolone as a single morning dose, followed by a slow taper. Use of intravenous pulse steroid therapy is an important option in acute, severe, bilateral posterior segment inflammation. In several cases, the level of systemic steroid required to control the inflammation is too high and unacceptable. Immunosuppressive drugs as steroid‐sparing agents are indicated is such cases. Intravitreal injection of triamcinolone acetonide and slow‐release intraocular devices are therapeutic options that can be used in selected uveitis cases refractory to conventional therapy and biologic agents.
Mycophenolate mofetil in uveitis
Authors: NERI P 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose To review the current Literature and to describe the experience of a tertiary referral centre on the use of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) treatment in uveitis. Methods The current literature is reviewed and the experience of a tertiary referral centre is reported. Results The long‐lasting remission in several systemic diseases, such as Crohn’s disease, severe atopic dermatitis, Wegener’s granulomatosis and microscopic polyangioitis, rheumatoid arthritis, pemphigus vugaris, and psoriasis, have been proven. Recent publications have have recently confirmed the satisfactory control of uveitis with MMF in a large cohort of patients. Moreover, the long‐term control of cystoid macular oedema (CMO) unresponsive to the traditional therapy has been described, as well as for the choroidal neovascularization (CNV). Conclusion Non‐infectious uveitis is one of the leading causes of visual impairment in ophthalmology. Steroids can control such disease, even though a long‐term treatment is not recommended: several complications, such as high blood sugar level, osteoporosis, blood cell abnormalities, cataract and glaucoma, can occur. MMF is a reversible, non competitive, selective inhibitor of the de‐novo pathway of purine synthesis; mycophenolic acid has a strong effect to Type II isoform of inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase enzyme, providing a stronger cytostatic effect on lymphocytes than on other cells types, with minor action to Type I expressed in most other cells. The specific action of MMF on selected targets makes it a promising drug for the control of non‐infectious intraocular inflammations.
Optimised monitoring of inflammation suppressive therapy (IST) in uveitis
Authors: HERBORT CP 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose The array of inflammation suppressive therapies (IST) has increased trumendously in the last two decades including the availability of biological molecules with potent immunomodulatary activities as well as new immunosuppressive agents. In parallel measuring methods for intraocular inflammation have become available allowing much more acurate monitoring of the evolution of inflammation and its response to therapy. In addition to the traditionally used fluorescein angiography (FA), laser flare photometrry (LFP), indocyanine green angiography ICGA) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) are among the new investigational methods that have become available, each of them allowing us to establish inflammatory activity with increased precision and to explore compartments previously poorly accessible. Methods The advantages of each method will be put forward. Illustrative cases will be taken as examples to show the degree of precision obtained by combining the different methods presently at our disposal for the follow‐up and monitoring of inflammation suppressive treatment. Results These cases will show that the presently available tools for optimal monitoring of intraocular inflammation allow the clinician to be better aware of the level of inflammatory activity and to better adapt his treatment. Conclusion Not only he availability of potent new therapies but also the possibility to follow more precisely intraocular inflammation with new precise devices has certainly changed the outcome of uveitis cases in recent years.
Pitfalls in statistics and how to avoid them ‐ part 1
Authors: KIVELÄ T 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose To highlight some pearls and pitfalls in reporting summary statistics and in using common statistical tests. Methods Personal experience of the author as a writer, reviewer and editorial board member especially for the EVER Journal, Acta Ophthalmologica, is used to highlight some of the most common possibilities for improvement in using basic statistics. Results The items discussed, based on examples from the literature, include: 1. how to avoid giving a false impression of precision when reporting key results and how to communicate effect size; 2. how to differentiate statistical from clinical significance and how to communicate statistically nonsignificant results when writing the manuscript; 3. recognising the common problem of making multiple comparisons and adjusting for them; and 4. differentiating ordered and unordered categorical data and choosing the proper statistical test accordingly. Conclusion Clear reporting and analysis of basic statistics is not difficult as long as one is aware of a few basic rules, which will be discussed in this talk. Putting them into action may improve your manuscripts.
Pitfalls in statistics and how to avoid them ‐ part 2
Authors: KIVELÄ T 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose To highlight some pearls and pitfalls in reporting statistics related to the eye. Methods Personal experience of the author as a writer, reviewer and editorial board member especially for the EVER Journal, Acta Ophthalmologica, is used to highlight common issues specific for reporting eye‐related statistics. Results The items discussed, based on examples from the literature, include: 1. proper ways of summarising and comparing visual acuities; and 2. proper ways of analysing data collected from both eyes of the patients. The need to find a statistician well versed in ophthalmic research at the planning stage of a study is stressed Conclusion Correct reporting and analysis of data related to the eye is not difficult as long as one is aware of a few basic rules, which will be discussed in this talk. Putting them into action helps to ensure that the conclusions the readers draw from your study are proper.
Diabetic retinopathy
Authors: POURNARAS CJ , MENDRINOS E 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Purpose To describe the clinical stages of diabetic retinopathy (DR) and diabetic macular edema (DME), their complications and treatment. Methods Diabetic retinopathy is currently classified into several groups: minimal non‐proliferative, moderate non‐proliferative, severe non‐proliferative and proliferative with or without high‐risk characteristics. To characterize the severity of DME and for treatment guidelines, the term clinically significant macular edema (CSME) is used. CSME is further classified into focal or diffuse. Results The role of panretinal photocoagulation in reducing the risk of severe visual loss related to proliferative diabetic retinopathy has been demonstrated by prospective large scale randomized studies (DRS, ERTDS). Similarly, the ETRDS study showed the benefit of focal/grid laser photocoagulation in reducing the risk of moderate visual loss in CSME. In the last years, promising results have been published on the use of intravitreal (IVT) injections of triamcilone acetonide, anti‐VEGF agents, and on the use injectable sustained release steroid implants in terms of visual gain and reduction of central macular thickness. Laser photocoagulation was demonstrated more effective that IVT triamcinolone alone for the treatment of diabetic macular oedema. The risks and benefits of novel treatment modalities and their efficacy and safety should be further evaluated in prospective well designed studies. Vitrectomy is indicated in selected cases. Conclusion Diabetic retinopathy is characterized by gradually progressive alterations in the retinal microvasculature leading to neovascularization, vitreous hemorrhage, retinal detachment and macular edema. Several treatment modalities are still investigated. Laser photocoagulation is the standard of care.