bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
PHENOTYPIC PLASTICITY RECONCILES INCONGRUOUS MOLECULAR AND MORPHOLOGICAL TAXONOMIES: THE GIANT KELP, MACROCYSTIS (LAMINARIALES, PHAEOPHYCEAE), IS A MONOSPECIFIC GENUS1
Authors: Demes Kyle W. , Graham Michael H. , Suskiewicz Thew S. 
Published: September 2009

The giant kelp genus Macrocystis C. Agardh (Laminariales, Phaeophyceae) is one of the world’s most ecologically and economically important seaweed taxa, yet its taxonomy remains uncertain. Although the genus currently contains four accepted species based on variable holdfast and blade morphology [M. pyrifera (L.) C. Agardh, M. integrifolia Bory, M. angustifolia Bory, and M. laevis C. H. Hay], numerous recent studies on Macrocystis interfertility, genetic relatedness, and morphological plasticity all suggest that the genus is monospecific. We reviewed this evidence and present an explanation for the extreme phenotypic plasticity that results in morphological variability within Macrocystis, driven by the effects of environmental factors on early development of macroscopic sporophytes. We propose that the genus be collapsed back to a single species, with nomenclatural priority given to M. pyrifera.
GENETIC VARIATION AMONG STRAINS OF PSEUDOPFIESTERIA SHUMWAYAE AND PFIESTERIA PISCICIDA (DINOPHYCEAE)1
Authors: Small Hamish J. , Shields Jeffrey D. , Haas Leonard W. , Vogelbein Wolfgang K. , Moss Jessica , Reece Kimberly S. 
Published: September 2009

The putatively toxic dinoflagellates Pseudopfiesteria shumwayae (Glasgow et J. M. Burkh.) Litaker, Steid., P. L. Mason, Shields et P. A. Tester and Pfiesteria piscicida Steid. et J. M. Burkh. have been implicated in massive fish kills and of having negative impacts on human health along the mid‐Atlantic seaboard of the USA. Considerable debate still remains as to the mechanisms responsible for fish mortality (toxicity vs. micropredation) caused by these dinoflagellates. Genetic differences among these cultures have not been adequately investigated and may account for or correlate with phenotypic variability among strains within each species. Genetic variation among strains of Ps. shumwayae and P. piscicida was examined by PCR–RFLP analysis using cultures obtained from the Provasoli‐Guillard National Center for Culture of Marine Phytoplankton (CCMP), as well as those from our own and other colleagues’ collection efforts. Examination of restriction digest banding profiles for 22 strains of Ps. shumwayae revealed the presence of 10 polymorphic restriction endonuclease sites within the first and second internal transcribed spacers (ITS1 and ITS2) and the 5.8S gene of the rDNA complex, and the cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) gene. Three compound genotypes were represented within the 22 Ps. shumwayae strains. Conversely, PCR–RFLP examination of 14 strains of P. piscicida at the same ITS1, 5.8S, and ITS2 regions revealed only one variable restriction endonuclease site, located in the ITS1 region. In addition, a dinoflagellate culture listed as P. piscicida (CCMP 1928) and analyzed as part of this study was identified as closely related to Luciella masanensis P. L. Mason, H. J. Jeong, Litaker, Reece et Steid.
Analyzing Polyvinyl Chloride in Japan With the Waste Input−Output Material Flow Analysis Model
Authors: Nakamura Shinichiro , Nakajima Kenichi , Yoshizawa Yoshie , Matsubae‐Yokoyama Kazuyo , Nagasaka Tetsuya 
Published: September 2009

SummaryEffective life cycle management of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) calls for the separation of end‐of‐life PVC products at the time of collection not only from other wastes but among different PVC types as well. Information about the flow of PVC products in the economy is important for this purpose. Within the framework of the Japanese input−output (IO) table for the year 2000, with around 400 industry sectors, the flow of PVC is captured in terms of six PVC‐embodying products and in terms of three PVC types, (1) flexible PVC (soft PVC), (2) rigid PVC (hard PVC), and (3) others. The degree of resolution; the consideration of different PVC types, which are seldom performed in the material flow analysis (MFA) literature; and the use of waste input−output material flow analysis (WIO‐MFA) represent distinguishing features of our study. The use of WIO‐MFA methodology enables one to convert a monetary input−output table into a physical interindustry flow table involving an arbitrary number of materials under full consideration of the mass balance. The results indicate that 40% of the PVC produced in Japan is exported (as resins and as products such as passenger motor cars), and the rest is accumulated mostly as capital stock. The largest share of accumulation goes to public construction in the form of plates, pipes, and bars, which are mostly hard‐PVC products.
Antibiotic Prescriptions Are Associated with Increased Patient Satisfaction With Emergency Department Visits for Acute Respiratory Tract Infections
Authors: Stearns Cordelia R. , Gonzales Ralph , Camargo, Jr Carlos A , Maselli Judith , Metlay Joshua P. 
Published: October 2009

AbstractObjectives:  Health care providers cite patient satisfaction as a common reason for prescribing antibiotics for viral acute upper respiratory infections (URIs), even though quality performance measures emphasize nonantibiotic treatment for these conditions. In a secondary analysis of a cluster‐randomized trial to test a combined patient and physician educational intervention to reduce antibiotic prescribing for URIs, the authors examined whether satisfaction is greater among patients diagnosed with URIs who are prescribed antibiotics in emergency department (ED) settings.Methods:  This was a follow‐up telephone survey of 959 patients who received care for acute respiratory infections at any of eight Veterans Administration (VA) hospital EDs or eight location‐matched non‐VA hospital EDs around the United States. Patients reported their satisfaction with the amount of time spent in the ED, the explanation of treatment, the provider treatment, and overall satisfaction on a five‐point Likert scale. The primary measure of effect was the association between antibiotic prescription and visit satisfaction, adjusted for patient and visit characteristics.Results:  Antibiotic treatment was significantly associated with increased overall visit satisfaction in non‐VA EDs (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 1.97, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.23 to 3.17), but not VA EDs (adjusted OR = 1.13, 95% CI = 0.81 to 1.58). Patients managed in non‐VA EDs who received antibiotics were also significantly more likely to be satisfied with the explanation of treatment and the manner in which they were treated by the provider.Conclusions:  Antibiotic prescriptions are associated with increased overall patient satisfaction in non‐VA, but not VA, ED visits for URIs. Continued efforts to reduce unnecessary prescriptions in these settings must address ways to maintain patient satisfaction and still reduce antibiotic prescriptions.
No evidence for myocardial iron overload and free iron species in multitransfused patients with sickle/β0‐thalassaemia
Authors: Ghoti Hussam , Goitein Orly , Koren Ariel , Levin Carina , Kushnir Tamar , Rachmilewitz Eliezer , Konen Eli 
Published: September 2009

AbstractIron overload (IO) in the heart is a life‐threatening complication in transfusion‐dependent patients with thalassaemia major (TM) and to a lesser extent in sickle cell disease (SCD), while no data are available in patients with sickle/β0‐thalassaemia. Iron deposition in the heart, liver and pancreas was assessed using T2* MRI sequences, as well as free iron species assays – non‐transferrin bound iron (NTBI) and labile plasma iron (LPI), in addition to serum ferritin, percentage transferrin saturation and serum hepcidin, in 10 multitransfused patients (>30 yr) with sickle/β0‐thalassaemia. None of the patients had iron deposition in the heart. Three patients had mild, one had moderate, and two had severe liver IO. Two patients had mild iron deposition in the pancreas. In all the patients, serum hepcidin levels were normal – NTBI and LPI were not detected. Possible explanations of these findings are discussed.
Exploring the role of face processing in facial emotion recognition in schizophrenia
Authors: Rocca Paola , Castagna Filomena , Mongini Tullia , Montemagni Cristiana , Rasetti Roberta , Rocca Giuseppe , Bogetto Filippo 
Published: September 2009

Objective:Impairment in emotion perception represents a fundamental feature of schizophrenia with important consequences in social functioning. A fundamental unresolved issue is the relationship between emotion perception and face perception. The aim of the present study was to examine whether facial identity recognition (Identity Discrimination) is a factor predicting facial emotion recognition in the context of the other factors, known as contributing to emotion perception, such as cognitive functions and symptoms.Methods:We enrolled 58 stable schizophrenic out-patients and 47 healthy subjects. Facial identity recognition and emotion perception were assessed with the Comprehensive Affect Testing System. Different multiple regression models with backward elimination were performed in order to discover the relation of each significant variable with emotion perception.Results:In a regression including the six significant variables (age, positive symptomatology, Identity Discrimination, attentive functions, verbal memory-learning, executive functions) versus emotion processing, only attentive functions (standardisedβ= 0.264,p= 0.038) and Identity Discrimination (standardisedβ= 0.279,p= 0.029) reached a significant level. Two partial regressions were performed including five variables, one excluding attentive functions and the other excluding Identity Discrimination. When we excluded attentive functions, the only significant variable was Identity Discrimination (standardisedβ= 0.278,p= 0.032). When we excluded Identity Discrimination, both verbal memory-learning (standardisedβ= 0.261,p= 0.042) and executive functions (standardisedβ= 0.253,p= 0.048) were significant.Conclusions:Our results emphasised the role of face perception and attentional abilities on affect perception in schizophrenia. We additionally found a role of verbal memory-learning and executive functions on emotion perception. The relationship between those above-mentioned variables and emotion processing could have implications for cognitive rehabilitation.
Exposure to secondhand tobacco smoke and child behaviour – results from a cross‐sectional study among preschool children in Bavaria
Authors: Twardella D , Bolte G , Fromme H , Wildner M , Von Kries R ,   the GME Study Group
Published: September 2009

AbstractAim:  To evaluate the association of postnatal exposure to secondhand tobacco smoke on childhood behavioural problems after taking maternal smoking during pregnancy into account.Methods:  In a cross‐sectional survey of preschool children in Bavaria, exposure to secondhand tobacco smoke in the child’s home was assessed via a parent questionnaire. The Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) was applied to assess child’s behaviour. The association with secondhand tobacco smoke exposure was assessed for ‘probable’ outcomes of the problem subscales and of prosocial behaviour.Results:  Among 5494 children (48% female), the SDQ indicated behavioural problems in up to 11%. After adjustment for socioeconomic factors, low birth weight and maternal smoking before and during pregnancy, a dose‐response relationship with exposure to secondhand tobacco smoke was observed regarding hyperactivity/inattention (odds ratio compared to ‘none’ was 1.35 for ‘low/medium’ and 2.39 for ‘high’ exposure, 95% confidence intervals 1.02–1.78 and 1.62–3.53, respectively) as well as for conduct problems (OR 1.68 (1.37–2.06) and 1.93 (1.39–2.68)).Conclusion:  Secondhand tobacco smoke exposure at home appears to be associated with an increased risk of behavioural problems among preschool children. Prevention of behavioural problems may be a further reason to target secondhand tobacco smoke exposure in children.
Vinylsiloxanether: A New Impression Material. Clinical Study of Implant Impressions with Vinylsiloxanether versus Polyether Materials
Authors: Enkling Norbert , Bayer Stefan , Jöhren Peter , Mericske‐Stern Regina 
Published: September 2009

ABSTRACTAim: The performance of three elastomeric materials for the open monophase implant impressions technique was tested under the following clinical conditions: polyether (IM) and vinylsiloxanether without (ID) and with additional simultaneous splinting of the implant impression copings with a higher shore hardness A‐silicone (IDF).Materials and Methods: The three test groups, IM, ID, and IDF, were randomly allocated 10 test subjects with three to five implants each. The impressions were analyzed regarding the subjective clinical assessments with 11‐point rating scales by the dentist, the patient, and the dental technician, as well as to the comparison of these assessments with the objectified clinical fit of the manufactured crowns based on standard clinical evaluation criteria. The three groups were statistically analyzed on the basis of the hypothesis of non‐inferiority of ID versus IM and IDF versus IM (alpha < 0.05).Results: The results of the study showed the objective clinical fit of the dental prostheses made using ID being comparable to the results obtained with IM. Compared with ID and IM, the precision of fit attained with IDF was reduced, although the subjective dentist assessments of IDF were in parts significantly better than those of IM and ID (p = .015). A statistically significant superiority of ID in comparison with IM could be determined with regard to the subjective ratings of the taste by the test subject (p < .01), of the handling (p < .001) and of the precision details of impression (p = .012) by the dentist, and of removing the plaster model from the mold by the dental technician (p = .017).Conclusions: The overall results of the vinylsiloxanether material in terms of the patients', dentists', and dental technicians' assessments proved to be equivalent or superior to those of the polyether material. The IDF technique cannot be recommended for this application.
Original Research—Erectile Dysfunction: Evaluation of Microalbuminuria in Patients with Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: Barassi Alessandra , Pezzilli Raffaele , Morselli-Labate Antonio Maria , Porreca Wanda , Piediferro Guido , Ciociola Francesco , Colpi Giovanni , D’Eril GianVico Melzi 
Published: September 2009

ABSTRACTIntroductionThe recent sophisticated diagnostic procedures aimed at identifying the exact cause of erectile dysfunction (ED) are often complicated in clinical application, invasive, or highly expensive. Microalbuminuria, a test easy to perform and of low cost, is a marker of extensive endothelial dysfunction, and it has been suggested to be linked to ED.AimThe aim of this study was to investigate the eventual role of microalbuminuria in differentiating patients with arteriogenic and non arteriogenic ED.MethodsThe diagnosis of ED was based on the International Index of Erectile Function 5-questionnaire, and patients were classified as arteriogenic (N=29) and non-arteriogenic (N=49) in relation to the results of echo-color-doppler examination of cavernosal arteries in basal conditions and after intracavernous injection of 10 µg prostaglandin E1.Main Outcome MeasuresThe microalbuminuria of 78 males without the most common atheriosclerotic risks and with ED was measured.ResultsMicroalbuminuria, defined as urinary albumin/creatinine ratio, was not significantly (P &gt; 0.05) different between patients of the two groups.ConclusionsOur data show that in ED patients the cavernosal arteries damage, as assessed by dynamic echo-color-doppler, may be independent on or precede extensive endothelial dysfunction, and that microalbuminuria cannot be predictive of penile arteriogenic etiology.
Age-Related Morphological Changes in Smooth Muscle and Collagen Content in Human Corpus Cavernosum
Authors: Ferrer Julio Eduardo , Velez Juan Diego , Herrera Ana Milena 
Published: September 2009

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Aging process has been related to erectile dysfunction (ED) possibly due to morphological changes in corpus cavernosum among many other causes.

Aim
To evaluate smooth muscle and collagen content in human corpus cavernosum and to correlate it to age.

Methods
Cadaveric human cavernosal tissue was collected during the period of 1 year. Morphological analysis of a whole corpus cavernosum was performed in tissue sections stained with Masson’s trichromic method to differentiate smooth muscle (red) from collagen (blue) content.

Main Outcome Measures
Analysis was performed with specialized micrographs image analysis software. Pearson’s correlation test was used to establish correlation between corpus cavernosum morphology (smooth muscle and collagen content) and age.

Results
A total sample of 89 tissues from different male cadavers were analyzed. The average age of the sample was 49.2 ± 19.1 years, with a range between 14 and 90 years. There was a statistically significant inverse correlation between age and the percentage of smooth muscle content (P = 0.012), direct correlation between age and percentage of collagen content (P = 0.019), and inverse correlation between age and the ratio of smooth muscle : collagen content (P = 0.007).

Conclusions
Age-related morphological changes in terms of smooth muscle and collagen content are observed in human corpus cavernosum as a possible contributing factor to the development of ED.
The Effects of Oral Administration of D-Modafinil on Male Rat Ejaculatory Behavior
Authors: Marson Lesley , Yu Guozhong , Farber Neal M. 
Published: September 2009

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Premature ejaculation (PE) is one of the most common forms of male sexual dysfunction. Examination of various classes of drugs on ejaculation latency would provide further opportunities for drug development in this field.

Aim
This study was conducted to examine the effects of the d-isomer of modafinil (d-modafinil) on ejaculatory behavior in a rat model.

Methods
Male sexual behavior in the rat was examined after acute oral administration of d-modafinil (10 mg/kg, 30 mg/kg, and 100 mg/kg) in copulation studies with receptive females.

Main Outcome Measures
The latency to ejaculation, post-ejaculatory interval, and the frequency of mounting behavior were measured. Results d-modafinil (30 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg) produced a significant delay in ejaculation. The delay in ejaculation was accompanied by an increase in the number of intromissions without any change in the mount or intromission latency. The possible mechanisms of action of d-modafinil to produce this delay in ejaculation are discussed.

Conclusions
These results demonstrate that acute oral administration of d-modafinil can lengthen the latency to ejaculation in rats without suppressing sexual behavior. The greatest delay in ejaculation was observed in animals with shorter baseline ejaculatory latencies. Investigation into new classes of drugs that modulate ejaculation may provide new therapeutic options for treating PE.
Subcutaneous Testosterone Pellet Implant (Testopel®) Therapy for Men with Testosterone Deficiency Syndrome: A Single-Site Retrospective Safety Analysis
Authors: Cavender Richard K. , Fairall Melissa 
Published: September 2009

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Long-acting subcutaneous testosterone pellets provide sustained and steady testosterone levels for 3 to 6 months. Testopel® subcutaneous crystalline testosterone pellets are U.S.-approved for the treatment of men with testosterone deficiency syndrome. Published experience with testosterone pellets manufactured by Organon has noted relatively high rates of pellet extrusion and infection.

Aim
To report safety and limited efficacy data from our patients treated for testosterone deficiency syndrome with Testopel® subcutaneous testosterone pellets.

Main Outcome Measures
Infection with or without pellet extrusion, as determined by longitudinal follow-up.

Methods
Single-site, retrospective analysis of medical records from December 2003 through April 2008.

Results
A total of 80 men met inclusion and exclusion criteria. In the 292 implant procedures performed, four adverse events were reported including one implantation site infection. No spontaneous pellet extrusions were reported. Total and free testosterone concentrations were significantly higher at follow-up than at baseline for all patients. Eighty-six percent of patients were satisfied with this treatment modality based on symptom improvement or having subsequent implant procedures.

Conclusions
Testosterone replacement with long-acting Testopel pellets had a lower rate of infection (0.3%, 1/292 procedures) as compared with historical data from the Organon testosterone pellet (1.4–6.8%). Additionally, the rate of pellet extrusion was substantially lower (0.3%, 1/292 procedures) as compared with historical data (8.5–12%). None of the patients who complied with post-implant procedure instructions experienced infection or pellet extrusion. Patient satisfaction was high and serum hormone values were improved. The low infection and extrusion rates observed may have been the result of the manufacturing process, which results in small, smooth-surfaced pellets; the absence of foreign material within the pellet packaging; and/or differences in the surgical implantation technique used. Though Testopel pellets have been used in the United States for several decades, more research is needed to document their safety and efficacy.
Emotional Changes in Men Treated With Sildenafil Citrate for Erectile Dysfunction: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Moncada Ignacio , Martínez-Jabaloyas José M. , Rodriguez-Vela Luis , Gutiérrez Pedro R. , Giuliano Francois , Koskimaki Juha , Farmer Ian S , Renedo Virginia Pascual , Schnetzler Gabriel 
Published: September 2009

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Erectile dysfunction (ED) has been associated with several comorbidities and can cause significant loss of quality of life and self-esteem.

Aim
In men with ED, to use the validated Self-Esteem and Relationship (SEAR) questionnaire to evaluate changes in self-esteem associated with sildenafil treatment of ED and to assess changes dependent on concomitant comorbid conditions.

Methods
This was a 14-week, international, randomized, parallel-group, double-blind, flexible-dose (25, 50, or 100 mg), placebo-controlled study of sildenafil in men aged ≥18 years with a clinical diagnosis of ED (score ≤ 21 on the Sexual Health Inventory for Men).

Main Outcome Measures
The primary outcome was the change in the SEAR Self-Esteem subscale score from baseline to the end of treatment. Secondary outcomes were the change in SEAR component scores stratified by ED comorbidity, the change in the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) domain scores and in the intercourse success rate, and the response to the global efficacy assessment and to the global satisfaction assessment.

Results
A total of 841 patients were included in the intent-to-treat efficacy analysis (559 sildenafil, 282 placebo). Patients randomized to sildenafil had significantly greater change scores from baseline to the end of treatment on all components of the SEAR and all domains of the IIEF (P &lt; 0.0001) compared with placebo. This finding was also consistent for all SEAR components when stratified by each ED comorbidity. In the sildenafil group, the improvement in the mean Self-Esteem subscale score correlated with improvements in the mean Erectile Function domain score (r = 0.6338, P &lt; 0.0001).

Conclusions
The physiologic and emotional benefits of sildenafil in the treatment of ED were confirmed, overall and in men with comorbid hypertension, hyperlipidemia, benign prostatic hypertrophy, and/or depression. Using both the IIEF and the SEAR questionnaires provides a more complete assessment of ED.