bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Female Sexual Responses Using Signal Processing Techniques
Authors: Rafiee Javad , Rafiee Mohammad A. , Michaelsen Diane 
Published: August 2009

ABSTRACTIntroductionAn automatic algorithm for processing vaginal photoplethysmograph signals could benefit researchers investigating sexual behaviors by standardizing interlaboratory methods. Female sexual response does not co-vary consistently in the self-report and physiological domains, making the advancement of measurements difficult. Automatic processing algorithms would increase analysis efficiency. Vaginal pulse amplitude (VPA) is a method used to measure female sexual responses. However, VPA are problematic because of the movement artifacts that impinge on the signal. This article suggests a real-time approach for automatic artifact detection of VPA signals. The stochastic changes (artifacts) of VPA are characterized mathematically in this research, and a method is presented to automatically extract the frequency of interest from VPA based on the autocorrelation function and wavelet analysis. Additionally, a calculation is presented for the vaginal blood flow change rate (VBFCR) during female sexual arousal using VPA signals.AimThe primary aim is to investigate the experimental VPA measures based on theoretical techniques. Particularly, the goal is to introduce an automatic monitoring system for female sexual behaviors, which may be helpful for experts of female sexuality.MethodsThe methods in the research are divided into experimental and theoretical parts. The VPA in twenty women was measured by a common vaginal photoplethysmography system in two conditions. Each subject was tested watching a neutral video followed by an erotic video. For theoretical analysis, an approach was applied based on wavelet transform to process the VPA.Main Outcome MeasuresIntroduction of an automatic and real-time monitoring system for female sexual behaviors, automatic movement artifact detection, VBFCR, first application of wavelet transform, and correlogram in VPA analysis.ResultsThe natural and significant frequency information of VPA signals was extracted to automatically detect movement artifacts and to investigate the effects of erotic videos on female sexual responses.ConclusionsThe computerized automatic systems based on advanced math and statistics have several advantages for human sexuality research such as: savings in time and budget; increase in the accuracy of results; and reduction in human errors for data analysis.
Voltage-Dependent Ca2+ Currents Contribute to Spontaneous Ca2+ Waves in Rabbit Corpus Cavernosum Myocytes
Authors: McCloskey Conor , Cagney Victoria , Large Roddy , Hollywood Mark , Sergeant Gerard , McHale Noel , Thornbury Keith 
Published: August 2009

ABSTRACTIntroductionCorpus cavernosum myocytes generate spontaneous tone that contributes to penile detumescence. It is essential to elucidate how tone is generated to fully understand the processes involved in erection. Tissue experiments have shown that blockers of voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels (VDCCs) reduce tone. However, there is also a widespread belief that these channels are poorly expressed in this tissue. Furthermore, it is unclear how VDCC would interact with recently described intracellular Ca2+ waves, which initiate contractions.Aims(i) To directly examine VDCC currents in freshly isolated corpus cavernosum myocytes; and (ii) to study the relationship between VDCC and intracellular Ca2+ waves.Main Outcome MeasuresVDCC and cytosolic Ca2+ were measured using patch clamp and confocal microscopy.MethodsMale New Zealand white rabbits were euthanized and corpus cavernosum myocytes dispersed enzymatically for patch clamp recording and confocal Ca2+ imaging (using fluo-4AM).ResultsIsolated myocytes developed robust VDCC that could be separated into two components. One activated at −45 mV, reversed at +40 mV, inactivated with a V1/2 of −27 mV and was enhanced by Ba2+. This component was blocked with nifedipine, but not Ni2+ or mibefradil. The other component inactivated with a V1/2 of −87 mV, was unchanged in Ba2+, and was blocked by Ni2+ or mibefradil, but not nifedipine. Even though Ni2+ had no effect on intracellular Ca2+ waves, nifedipine blocked them, although localized Ca2+ events remained.ConclusionsAt least two VDCC are expressed in rabbit corpus cavernousum myocytes. One may be designated L-type Ca2+ current, whereas the other is a putative T-type current. The L-current facilitates conversion of local Ca2+ events into global Ca2+ waves, whereas the putative T-current plays little part in this process. These results provide a new basis for understanding the role of L-type Ca2+ current in generating detumescent tone in the corpus cavernosum.
Clomiphene Citrate and Testosterone Gel Replacement Therapy for Male Hypogonadism: Efficacy and Treatment Cost
Authors: Taylor Frederick , Levine Laurence 
Published: August 2009

ABSTRACT

Introduction
The efficacy of oral clomiphene citrate (CC) in the treatment of male hypogonadism and male infertility (MI) with low serum testosterone and normal gonadotropin levels has been reported.

Aim
The aim of this article is to evaluate CC and testosterone gel replacement therapy (TGRT) with regard to biochemical and clinical efficacy and cost.

Main Outcome Measures
The main outcome measures were change in serum testosterone with CC and TGRT therapy, and change in the androgen deficiency in aging male (ADAM) questionnaire scores with CC therapy.

Methods
Men receiving CC or TGRT with either Androgel® 1% or Testim® 1% for hypogonadism (defined as testosterone&lt;300 ng/mL) or MI were included. Serum values were collected 1–2 months after treatment initiation and semi-annually thereafter. Retrospective data collection was performed via chart review. Subjective follow up of patients receiving CC was performed via telephone interview using the ADAM questionnaire.

Results
A hundred and four men (65 CC and 39 TGRT) were identified who began CC (50 mg every other day) or TGRT (5 g). Average age (years) was 42(CC) vs. 57 (TGRT). Average follow up was 23 months (CC, range 8–40 months) vs. 46 months (TGRT, range 6–149 months). Average posttreatment testosterone was 573 ng/dL in the CC group and 553 ng/dL in the TGRT group (P value&lt;0.001). The monthly cost of Testim® 1% (5 gm daily) is $270, Androgel® 1% (5 gm daily) is $265, and CC (50 mg every other day) is $83. Among CC patients, the average pretreatment ADAM score was 4.9 vs. 2.1 at follow up (P &lt;0.05). Average pretreatment ADAM sexual function domain score was 0.76 vs. 0.23 at follow up (P &lt;0.05). There were no adverse events reported.

Conclusion
CC represents a treatment option for men with hypogonadism, demonstrating biochemical and clinical efficacy with few side effects and lower cost as compared with TGRT.
The Efficacy and Safety of Udenafil [Zydena] for the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction in Hypertensive Men Taking Concomitant Antihypertensive Agents
Authors: Paick Jae-Seung , Kim Sae Woong , Park Yoon Kyu , Hyun Jae Seog , Park Nam Cheol , Lee Sung Won , Park Kwanjin , Moon Ki Hak , Chung Woo Sik 
Published: August 2009

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Erectile dysfunction (ED) and hypertension are frequent comorbid conditions. The vasodilating properties of type 5 phosphodiesterase inhibitor (PDE5I) are the major concerns for the treatment of ED patients on antihypertensive medications.

Aim
To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Udenafil [Zydena] (Dong-A, Seoul, Korea), a newly developed PDE5I, for the treatment of ED patients on antihypertensive medication.

Methods
It was a multicentered, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, fix-dosed clinical trial among 165 ED patients receiving antihypertensive medications. The subjects treated with placebo, 100 mg or 200 mg of Udenafil for 12 weeks were asked to complete the Sexual Encounter Profile (SEP) diary, the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), and the Global Assessment Question (GAQ) during the study period.

Main Outcome Measures
Primary parameter: the change from baseline for IIEF erectile function domain (EFD) score; Secondary parameters: the IIEF Question 3 and 4, SEP Question 2 and 3, the rate of achieving normal erectile function (EFD ≥ 26) and the response to GAQ.

Results
Compared to placebo, patients receiving both doses of Udenafil showed significantly improved the IIEF-EFD score. The least squares means for the change from baseline in IIEF-EFD scores were 8.4 and 9.8 for 100 mg and 200 mg Udenafil groups, respectively; those values were significantly higher than that of placebo (2.4, P &lt; 0.0001). Similar results were observed in the comparison of Q3 and Q4 of IIEF, SEP diary and GAQ. Headache and flushing were the most common treatment-emergent adverse events, which were transient and mild-to-moderate in nature. No parameters of efficacy and safety were affected among the subsets stratified according to either the number of antihypertensive medication received or the previous experience of PDE5Is treatment.

Conclusion
Udenafil significantly improved erectile function among ED patients with hypertensive symptom treated with concomitant antihypertensive medication. The treatment did not increase the frequency or severity of adverse events.
Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is a Shared Sexual Concern of Couples I: Couple Conceptions of ED
Authors: Fisher William A. , Eardley Ian , McCabe Marita , Sand Michael 
Published: August 2009

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Erectile dysfunction (ED) may be regarded as a shared sexual concern with a significant negative impact on both patients and their partners.

Aim
The current research sought to explore the degree of concordance or divergence of couple members’ perceptions of the specific functional impairments characterizing the man’s ED, and the concordance or discordance of their attitudes, beliefs and experiences about the male partner’s erectile difficulty.

Methods
Questionnaires were sent to partners of men who participated in the Men’s Attitudes to Life Events and Sexuality (MALES) 2004 study, who consented to their partner’s involvement. A modified version of the questionnaire used in the MALES study was employed, adapted to reflect the female partner’s perspective. Questionnaire responses were analyzed in relation to responses provided by male study participants.

Main Outcome Measure
A 65-item questionnaire assessing women’s perceptions, beliefs, and attitudes regarding aspects of ED.

Results
High levels of concordance between couple members were observed across almost all items. Women’s perceptions of both the specific functional impairments characterizing their partner’s ED and the frequency of the partner’s erection difficulty were strongly associated with assessments the men themselves had made. Significant associations were also observed between couple members’ responses relating to their beliefs about the causes of ED, effects of ED on the relationship, communication about ED, finding a solution to ED, and attitudes toward medication. A number of specific male–female discordant perceptions and attitudes were also identified.

Conclusions
Findings of this study demonstrate a high degree of concordance in couple members’ perceptions of the male partner’s ED, and in their attitudes and beliefs about ED. Specific instances of discordance between couple members may contribute to treatment avoidance or couple conflict.
The Prevalence of Erectile Dysfunction in Post-Treatment Colorectal Cancer Patients and Their Interests in Seeking Treatment: A Cross-Sectional Survey in the West-Midlands
Authors: Ellis Richard , Smith Anthony , Wilson Sue , Warmington Sally , Ismail Tariq 
Published: August 2009

ABSTRACTIntroductionErectile dysfunction (ED) is a recognized complication of colorectal cancer treatment, particularly if surgery is below the recto-sigmoid junction (RSJ), and is an important quality-of-life issue. Previous studies have generated inconsistent prevalence estimates.AimWe aimed to establish the prevalence of ED in postsurgery colorectal cancer patients and to establish what proportion wished to seek treatment.Main Outcome MeasuresQuestionnaire: sociodemographics, treatment methods, International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF)-5 questionnaire (validated tool to assess erectile function): score of &lt;21 being used to define ED.MethodsCross-sectional survey. Inclusion criteria: adult male colorectal cancer patients diagnosed in 2000–2007, treated with curative intent in one teaching hospital. Statistical analysis: logistic regression analysis to determine predictors of ED.ResultsThe response rate was 46% (229/499). Respondents were aged 28 to 95 years; the majority were white (93.9%), more than half (57.1%) were in a sexual relationship, only a third reported having sex in the past 6 months (33.3%). The vast majority (75.1%; 172/229) of responders had ED as defined by the IIEF-5. ED was significantly associated with increasing age (P &lt;0.0005), having a malignancy below the RSJ (P = 0.002), having previous radiotherapy (P = 0.007), and having a stoma (P = 0.014). Those with ED were less likely to be in a sexual relationship (P = 0.002) and less likely to have had sex in the last 6 months (P &lt;0.0005). Only 29% of those with ED were not interested in treatment for their condition.ConclusionsThese data suggest a prevalence rate of ED of 75% in colorectal cancer survivors; this may be functional or psychological in origin. Quality of life may be improved if follow-up clinics for cancer survivors not only concentrated on the detection of recurrence but also offered assessment of erectile function and referral for patients who desire treatment.
Use of liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry for quantitative analysis of clopyralid in compost and forage
Authors: Uegaki Ryuichi , Ebato Munehiro , Sutoh Madoka , Cai Yimin 
Published: August 2009

AbstractIn this study, we first developed a technique to quantify clopyralid using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) and tested its performance for compost and corn plant samples. Then, we measured the uptake of clopyralid by forage corn grown on two types of soil mixed with clopyralid‐contaminated compost, in order to investigate the potential of ingestion of compost clopyralid by animals through forage crops. Because of the high recovery ratios (80–82% for compost and 98% for corn), sufficient theoretical quantification limits (5.0 and 1.7 μg kg−1 fresh matter, respectively) and close agreement with the bioassay method (73 μg kg−1 for LC/MS/MS and 80 μg kg−1 for bioassay), the LC/MS/MS method was considered to be of potential value for determining clopyralid in compost and plant materials. Corn plants took up clopyralid from soil (compost), with the amount and rate of uptake varying with soil types and application of activated carbon to soil. There is a need for quantifying clopyralid uptake by a range of forage crops under a range of cultivation conditions (e.g. climate, soil, management) to estimate clopyralid fluxes through the manure–forage–animal–manure pathway.
Germination and growth of old alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) seeds on soil
Authors: Park Byung Hoon , Kim Sangdeog A. 
Published: August 2009

AbstractOld alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) seeds which had been stored for 23 years at ordinary temperature under sealed‐up conditions were tested for germinability and seedling establishment. Five percent of seeds germinated on soil, and many of the germinated seedlings grew to a state of establishment. The results present evidence for the high ability of alfalfa seeds to maintain viability and vigor.
Accessibility and availability of individual leaves on a tiller in bahiagrass (Paspalum notatum Flügge) swards: Effects of nitrogen fertilizer and defoliation intensity
Authors: Hirata Masahiko , Sugino Ayumi , Ogura Shin‐ichiro 
Published: August 2009

AbstractCanopy structure of bahiagrass (Paspalum notatum Flügge) swards was analyzed in terms of accessibility and availability of individual leaves on a tiller. Tillers in swards under three nitrogen rates (0, 12 and 24 g m−2 year−1) × two cutting heights (3 and 10 cm above ground level) were measured in May (spring), July (summer) and October (autumn), for the heights of the basal and the highest point and the dry matter (DM) weights of individual leaves (laminae; L1, L2, L3 and so on; L1 = the uppermost or the youngest lamina) and a stem (inclusive of leaf sheaths). The tillers were relatively short in May and October and tall in July, having 10, six and seven leaves, respectively. The leaves were almost always green (no dry part) until L5 in May and until L4 in July and October. In each season, the relative accessibility (height rank of the maximum point) and availability (weight rank) of the leaves on the tiller was almost constant across the nitrogen rates and cutting heights, showing L1–L4 to be highly accessible and L3–L5 and L2 or L6 to be highly available (top four leaves). L3 was almost always the most accessible and available leaf across the seasons and the treatments, followed by L4 and L2. The results indicate the usefulness of the constant relative accessibility and availability of individual leaves on the tiller in the management and modeling of bahiagrass swards.
Importance, evolution, environmental impact and future challenges of grasslands and grassland‐based systems in Europe
Authors: Peeters Alain 
Published: August 2009

AbstractThe importance and the diversity of grasslands and grassland‐based systems are illustrated. Their multiple functions and values are highlighted. The main trends of the evolution of the systems in the last half‐century are summarized including the effect of the Common Agricultural Policy of the European Union. Grasslands are compared with annual forage crops for forage production potential and impact on the environment. New challenges are analyzed especially in relation to agro‐fuel production. The potential of grasslands for fuel production is discussed as well as the possible effect of first‐generation agro‐fuels on the grassland area. The fractionation of grassland biomass into several products like fibers, lactic acid and amino acids is described in relation to possible industrial uses. Policy recommendations are proposed.
MODELING WATER ADSORPTION ISOTHERMS OF PINHÃO (ARAUCARIA ANGUSTIFOLIA SEEDS) FLOUR AND THERMODYNAMIC ANALYSIS OF THE ADSORPTION PROCESS
Authors: CLADERA‐OLIVERA FLORENCIA , MARCZAK LIGIA DAMASCENO FERREIRA , NOREÑA CACIANO PELAYO ZAPATA , PETTERMANN ANA CAROLINA 
Published: August 2009

ABSTRACT The seeds of Araucaria angustifolia, commonly known as pinhão, are widely consumed in both Southern and Southeastern Brazil because of their high nutritious value. The literature on the technological aspects of this seed is still very scarce. Moisture adsorption isotherms of pinhão flour were determined at 10, 20, 30 and 40C using the gravimetric method. Results show that temperature has little effect on the adsorption process and the Chirife model was found to best represent the experimental data. The isosteric heat of sorption (differential enthalpy) was calculated by using the moisture adsorption isotherm and decreased as moisture content increased, becoming almost constant at 0.3 kg water/kg dry solids. The enthalpy–entropy compensation theory was applied to adsorption isotherms and the isokinetic temperature for pinhão flour was calculated by plotting the differential enthalpy versus differential entropy. It was found that the adsorption process investigated was enthalpy controlled.PRACTICAL APPLICATIONSMoisture isotherms are important for several applications in food technology (they can be used to predict potential changes in food stability, for storing method determination, packaging and ingredients selection, design and optimization of drying equipment, among others). This work presents the isotherms of a new product (pinhão flour), that do not exist in the market yet and with very scarce literature. As pinhão is a seasonal product, the study of new products using pinhão as raw material is also important.
Diabetes and skeletal health
Authors: YATURU Subhashini 
Published: August 2009

AbstractOsteoporosis and diabetes affect a large proportion of the elderly population. The prevalence of diabetes and osteoporosis is increasing. Compared with individuals without diabetes, both men and women with diabetes have a higher risk of fractures, particularly at the hip, with consequent significant morbidity and mortality. Type 1 diabetes is associated with decreased bone mass and although bone mass data for Type 2 diabetes may or may not be decreased, there is evidence of altered bone quality in diabetes. The mechanisms involved include effects of insulin, insulin‐like growth factor 1, cytokines, advanced glycation end products, and altered calcium homeostasis. In addition, a drug‐induced increase in the incidence of fractures has been noted with the use of thiazolidinediones (TZDs). TZDs improve insulin sensitivity and have multitude other beneficial effects. Osteoblasts and adipocytes are derived from a common multipotential mesenchymal stem cell progenitor, with activation of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ2 by both currently available TZDs (i.e. rosiglitazone and pioglitazone) stimulating adipogenesis and inhibiting osteoblastogenesis. The use of both rosiglitazone and pioglitazone is associated with an increased fracture risk, with changes in bone turnover markers and decreased bone mineral density.
Microsatellite size homoplasies and null alleles do not affect species diagnosis and population genetic analysis in a fungal species complex
Authors: QUELOZ V. , DUÒ A. , SIEBER T. N. , GRÜNIG C. R. 
Published: August 2009

AbstractThe suitability of 13 microsatellite loci for species diagnosis and population genetics in 11 species of thePhialocephala fortiniis.l.–Acephala applanataspecies complex (PAC) was assessed. Two data sets were compared to test possible biases in species typing and clone detection resulting from null alleles and size homoplasies. The first data set was based on fragment lengths derived from a multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay and the second data set was received from singleplex PCR at lower stringency and sequencing. Most null alleles observed in the multiplex PCR assay could be amplified during singleplex PCR under less stringent conditions. Size homoplasies resulting from mutations in flanking regions and differences in microsatellite structures were observed. For example,Phialocephala uotolensispossessed a (CT)13in addition to the (GT)xmotif at locus mPF_0644. Despite the occurrence of null alleles and size homoplasies, species diagnosis and population genetic analysis studies were not affected. These markers will facilitate studies on population biology, ecology and biogeography of PAC species.