bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Lower urinary tract symptoms and sexual health: the role of gender, lifestyle and medical comorbidities
Authors: Rosen Raymond C. , Link Carol L. , O’Leary Michael P. , Giuliano Francois , Aiyer Lalitha P. , Mollon Patrick 
Published: March 2009

OBJECTIVETo investigate the association between urological symptoms and self‐reported measures of sexual activity, desire and function in large representative samples of men and women in the Boston Area Community Health (BACH) survey.SUBJECTS AND METHODSThe BACH survey is a racially and ethnically diverse random sample of 5503 community‐dwelling residents aged 30–79 years, of Boston, MA, USA. Urological symptoms and sexual function were assessed in men and women at baseline using validated self‐report measures, i.e. the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), International Index of Erectile Function, and Female Sexual Function Index. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to assess the degree of association of sexual function measures with LUTS and other common urological problems in men and women in the BACH sample, controlling for the effects of age, medical comorbidities, and lifestyle factors.RESULTSUrological symptoms were associated with a significant decrease in sexual activity and function in both men and women. Women were more likely to report low sexual desire than men. Low sexual desire was associated with depression, nocturia and prostatitis in men. Erectile dysfunction in men was significantly associated with LUTS, nocturia and prostatitis in bivariate associations, and with prostatitis in multivariate analyses, controlling for the effects of diabetes and other comorbidities. In the multivariate analysis in women, sexual dysfunction was primarily associated with depression and inversely with alcohol use.CONCLUSIONSexual activity and function were diminished in both men and women with urological symptoms, although women reported more sexual problems overall than men, and the profile of risk factors and comorbidities was different across genders.
Sexual function among women with stress incontinence after using transobturator vaginal tape, and its correlation with patient’s expectations
Authors: El‐Enen Mohamed Abo , Ragb Maged , El‐Naser El Gamasy Abd , El‐Ashry Osama , El‐Sharaby Mahmoud , Elbadawy Adel , Fayed Nahla 
Published: March 2009

OBJECTIVETo evaluate changes in female sexual function after a transobturator vaginal tape (TOT) procedure for treating genuine stress urinary incontinence (SUI), and its correlation with patient’s expectation.PATIENTS AND METHODSThe study included women treated with a suburethral TOT for genuine SUI, neurologically intact, heterosexual and married, aged >18 years, with no previous history of malignancy, pelvic radiotherapy and no other associated surgical or psychological diseases. Patients were interviewed before surgery and with the aid of a questionnaire including female sexual function, the Beck depression indices and their expectation of sexual function after surgery.RESULTSSixty‐two premenopausal sexually active women were included (mean age 40.5 years). The cure rate from SUI was 92%, 89%, 87% and 84% at 6, 12, 18 and 24 months, respectively. All patients attended the visit before and the first visit after surgery, while 71%, 42% and 24% were assessed at the 12‐, 18 and 24‐month visits, respectively. The mean follow‐up was 12 months. Fifty‐two women resumed their sexual activity early within the 8 weeks after surgery and the frequency of coitus in more than two‐thirds of patients was at least once per month. The number of women who expected either looseness or tightness of the vagina was more than that estimated from patient perceptions. There was a difference between the patient’s sensation of vaginal length abnormalities during coitus (two women) and patient expectation (18 women).CONCLUSIONAlthough the TOT is effective for treating SUI, counselling the patient and her partner is important in correcting false ideas and expectations about future sexual activity. Indeed, sexual dysfunction is reported after vaginal surgery, with a physiological and psychological background. Further assessment should be used to characterize sexual dysfunction after vaginal surgery for SUI to find new solutions.
Multicenter long‐term follow‐up of children with idiopathic West syndrome: ACTH versus vigabatrin
Authors: Cohen‐Sadan S. , Kramer U. , Ben‐Zeev B. , Lahat E. , Sahar E. , Nevo Y. , Eidlitz T. , Zeharia A. , Kivity S. , Goldberg‐Stern H. 
Published: March 2009

Background and purpose:  Long‐term follow‐up of children with idiopathic West syndrome (WS) treated with adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) or vigabatrin.Methods:  Records of 28 normal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) WS cases were reviewed for seizure development and cognitive outcome in relation to treatment type and lag.Results:  Average age at disease onset was 5.5 months, and average lag time to treatment was 25 days. Fourteen patients were treated with ACTH (eight early and six late), and 14 with vigabatrin (without delay). Response rates were 88% for ACTH and 80% for vigabatrin. Short‐term outcomes for seizure cessation and electroencephalography normalization were identical between the groups. In the long‐term, early ACTH treatment was better than the rest combined. Average follow‐up time was 9 years. A normal cognitive outcome was achieved in 100% of the early‐ACTH group, 67% of the late‐ACTH group and 54% of the vigabatrin group (P = 0.03). Seizures subsequently developed in 54% of the vigabatrin group, in 33% of the late ACTH group, and 0% of the early ACTH group (P < 0.05).Conclusions:  Idiopathic WS with normal MRI is associated with a good cognitive outcome. Early ACTH treatment, administered within 1 month, yields a better cognitive and seizure outcome than vigabatrin or late ACTH.
Self‐preserving cosmetics
Authors: Varvaresou A. , Papageorgiou S. , Tsirivas E. , Protopapa E. , Kintziou H. , Kefala V. , Demetzos C. 
Published: March 2009

SynopsisPreservatives are added to products for two reasons: first, to prevent microbial spoilage and therefore to prolong the shelf life of the product; second, to protect the consumer from a potential infection. Although chemical preservatives prevent microbial growth, their safety is questioned by a growing segment of consumers. Therefore, there is a considerable interest in the development of preservative‐free or self‐preserving cosmetics. In these formulations traditional/chemical preservatives have been replaced by other cosmetic ingredients with antimicrobial properties that are not legislated as preservatives according to the Annex VI of the Commission Directive 76/768/EEC and the amending directives (2003/15/EC, 2007/17/EC and 2007/22/EC). ‘Hurdle Technology’, a technology that has been used for the control of product safety in the food industry since 1970s, has also been applied for the production of self‐preserving cosmetics. ‘Hurdle Technology’ is a term used to describe the intelligent combination of different preservation factors or hurdles to deteriorate the growth of microorganisms. Adherence to current good manufacturing practice, appropriate packaging, careful choice of the form of the emulsion, low water activity and low or high pH values are significant variables for the control of microbial growth in cosmetic formulations. This paper describes the application of the basic principles of ‘Hurdle Technology’ in the production of self‐preserving cosmetics. Multifunctional antimicrobial ingredients and plant‐derived essential oils and extracts that are used as alternative or natural preservatives and are not listed in Annex VI of the Cosmetic Directive are also reported.
The level of polyaromatic hydrocarbons in kajal and surma of major Indian brands
Authors: Patel D. K. , Prasad S. , Tripathi R. , Behari J. R. 
Published: March 2009

SynopsisKajal and surma are eye cosmetics extensively used in Indian subcontinent. Kajal is prepared by burning of vegetable oil and butter oil while surma by grinding of the stones. High performance liquid chromatography and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry instruments were used for quantification and confirmation of 16 polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Significant concentration of PAH was found in all the samples examined. The median concentration of PAH ranged from 0.14 (lowest, anthracene) to 31.18 μg g−1 [dibenz(a,h)anthracene] in kajal sample and from not detectable concentration (naphthalene) to 197.47 μg g−1 of benzo(a)pyrene in surma sample. Fifteen PAHs were detected in all the samples. Therefore the use of kajal and surma in eye should be strictly restricted.
CXCL12 increases human neural progenitor cell proliferation through Akt‐1/FOXO3a signaling pathway
Authors: Wu Yumei , Peng Hui , Cui Min , Whitney Nicholas P. , Huang Yunlong , Zheng Jialin C. 
Published: March 2009

AbstractCXCL12, a ligand for the chemokine receptor CXCR4, is well known in mediating neural progenitor cell (NPC) migration during neural development. However, the effects of CXCL12 on human NPC proliferation and its associated signaling pathways remain unclear. The transcription factor, FOXO3a, a downstream target of Akt‐1, is critical for cell cycle control and may also play an important role in regulating NPC proliferation. In this study, we found that CXCL12 promotes human NPC proliferation as determined by the proliferation marker Ki67 and BrdU incorporation. This CXCL12‐mediated NPC proliferation was associated with an increase in Akt‐1 and FOXO3a phosphorylation in a time‐ and dose‐dependent manner. The CXCR4 antagonist (T140) or inhibitors for G proteins (Pertussis toxin) and phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K) (LY294002) abolished CXCL12‐mediated NPC proliferation and phosphorylation of Akt‐1 and FOXO3a. The roles of Akt‐1 and FOXO3a in CXCL12‐mediated NPC proliferation were further investigated by using adenoviral over‐expression in NPCs. Over‐expression of dominant‐negative Akt‐1 or wild‐type FOXO3a in NPC abrogated CXCL12‐mediated proliferation. These data suggest that CXCL12‐mediated NPC proliferation is reliant upon the phosphorylation of Akt‐1 and FOXO3a and gives insight to an essential role of CXCL12 in neurogenesis. Understanding this mechanism may facilitate the development of novel therapeutic targets for NPC proliferation during neurogenesis.
Anti‐angiogenic and vascular disrupting effects of C9, a new microtubule‐depolymerizing agent
Authors: Ren Xuan , Dai Mei , Lin Li‐Ping , Li Pui‐Kai , Ding Jian 
Published: March 2009

Background and purpose:  The critical role of blood supply in the growth of solid tumours makes blood vessels an ideal target for anti‐tumour drug discovery. The anti‐angiogenic and vascular disrupting activities of C9, a newly synthesized microtubule‐depolymerizing agent, were investigated with several in vitro and in vivo models. Possible mechanisms involved in its activity were also assessed.Experimental approach:  Microtubule‐depolymerizing actions were assessed by surface plasmon resonance binding, competitive inhibition and cytoskeleton immunofluorescence. Anti‐angiogenic and vascular disrupting activities were tested on proliferation, migration, tube formation with human umbilical vein endothelial cells, and in rat aortic ring, chick chorioallantoic membrane and Matrigel plug assays. Western blots and Rho activation assays were employed to examine the role of Raf‐MEK‐ERK (mitogen‐activated ERK kinase, extracellular signal‐regulated kinase) and Rho/Rho kinase signalling.Key results:  C9 inhibited proliferation, migration and tube formation of endothelial cells and inhibited angiogenesis in aortic ring and chick chorioallantoic membrane assays. C9 induced disassembly of microtubules in endothelial cells and down‐regulated Raf‐MEK‐ERK signalling activated by pro‐angiogenic factors. In addition, C9 disrupted capillary‐like networks and newly formed vessels in vitro and rapidly decreased perfusion of neovasculature in vivo. Endothelial cell contraction and membrane blebbing induced by C9 in neovasculature was dependent on the Rho/Rho kinase pathway.Conclusions and implications:  Anti‐angiogenic and vascular disruption by C9 was associated with changes in morphology and function of endothelial cells, involving the Raf‐MEK‐ERK and Rho/Rho kinase signalling pathways. These findings strongly suggest that C9 is a new microtubule‐binding agent that could effectively target tumour vasculature.
Myoendothelial coupling in the mesenteric arterial bed; segmental differences and interplay between nitric oxide and endothelin‐1
Authors: Hilgers RHP , De Mey JGR 
Published: March 2009

Background and purpose: We tested the hypothesis that activated arterial smooth muscle (ASM) stimulates endothelial vasomotor influences via gap junctions and that the significance of this myoendothelial coupling increases with decreasing arterial diameter.Experimental approach: From WKY rats, first‐, second‐, third‐ and fourth‐order branches of the superior mesenteric artery (MA1, MA2, MA3 and MA4 respectively) were isolated and mounted in wire‐myographs to record vasomotor responses to 0.16–20 µmol·L−1phenylephrine.Key results: Removal of endothelium increased the sensitivity (pEC50) to phenylephrine in all arteries. The nitric oxide (NO) synthase inhibitor Nω‐nitro‐L‐arginine methyl ester (L‐NAME) (100 µmol·L−1) did not modify pEC50to phenylephrine in all denuded arteries, and increased it in intact MA1, MA2 and MA3 to the same extent as denudation. However, in intact MA4, the effect of L‐NAME was significantly larger (ΔpEC500.57 ± 0.02) than the effect of endothelium removal (ΔpEC500.20 ± 0.06). This endothelium‐dependent effect of L‐NAME in MA4 was inhibited by (i) steroidal and peptidergic uncouplers of gap junctions; (ii) a low concentration of the NO donor sodium nitroprusside; and (iii) by the endothelin‐receptor antagonist bosentan. It was also observed during contractions induced by (i) calcium channel activation (BayK 8644, 0.001–1 µmol·L−1); (ii) depolarization (10–40 mmol·L−1 K+); and (iii) sympathetic nerve stimulation (0.25–32 Hz).Conclusions and implications: These pharmacological observations indicated feedback control by endothelium of ASM reactivity involving gap junctions and a balance between endothelium‐derived NO and endothelin‐1. This myoendothelial coupling was most prominent in distal resistance arteries.
Naltrexone Decreases Heavy Drinking Rates in Smoking Cessation Treatment: An Exploratory Study
Authors: King Andrea , Cao Dingcai , Vanier Catherine , Wilcox Tracie 
Published: March 2009

Background: There is mixed support for the efficacy of the opioid antagonist naltrexone in the treatment of nicotine dependence. One potential unexplored mechanism underlying naltrexone’s effects in smoking cessation may be in its ability to reduce alcohol consumption.Methods: Alcohol consumption and liver enzyme levels (aspartate aminotransferase and alanine transaminase) were examined in a sample of 78 nonalcoholic social drinking smokers (34 naltrexone, 44 placebo) enrolled in a double‐blind randomized clinical trial of naltrexone in smoking cessation. Naltrexone or placebo began 3 days prior to the quit date (25 mg daily) and continued for 8 weeks (50 mg daily). All participants received nicotine patches and behavioral counseling up through 4 weeks after the quit date.Results: Naltrexone significantly reduced weekly heavy drinking rates. This effect was associated with greater nausea and pill taking adherence within the naltrexone group. Within heavy drinkers, naltrexone also directionally improved smoking quit rates compared with placebo. Liver enzyme levels did not differ during treatment with naltrexone compared with placebo.Conclusions: Naltrexone may reduce the frequency of heavy drinking in nonalcoholics attempting to quit smoking. Further, naltrexone may preferentially improve smoking quit rates within heavy drinkers who smoke, and further investigation in larger sample sizes is warranted.
Acute Hemodynamic Effects of Atrial Pacing with Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy
Authors: GOLD MICHAEL R. , NIAZI IMRAN , GIUDICI MICHAEL , LEMAN ROBERT B. , STURDIVANT JOHN L. , KIM MICHAEL H. , WAGGONER ALAN D. , DING JIANG , ARCOT‐KRISHNAMURTHY SHANTHA , DAUM DOUGLAS , YU YINGHONG 
Published: March 2009

Background: Chronotropic incompetence is common among patients with advanced heart failure (HF), thus atrial pacing (AP) is frequently utilized in this population. The hemodynamic effects of AP during cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) have not been well studied. Objective: The purpose of this study was to compare the acute hemodynamic response during CRT of AP with that during atrial sensing (AS). Methods: This study included 26 patients undergoing CRT. At implant, invasive left ventricular (LV) dP/dt was measured by a micromanometer catheter during biventricular pacing in AS and AP modes at 5 different atrioventricluar delays (AVD), tested in randomized order. Postimplant, echocardiography was performed to obtain aortic and mitral flow velocity integrals at baseline (no CRT) and during CRT. Results: Compared with intrinsic rhythm, CRT increased LV dP/dt by 11 ± 11% during AS (heart rate: 74 ± 13 bpm) and by 17 ± 11% during AP (heart rate: 86 ± 12 bpm, P < 0.001). The AVD associated with maximal hemodynamic response (AVDmax) during AP was 72 ± 40 ms longer than during AS. However, aortic and mitral flow velocity integrals decreased by 15–20% during AP. The aortic and mitral flow velocities at AVDmax for LV dP/dtmax were highly correlated with their maximum values (r > 0.98). Conclusion: AP increases LV dP/dt during CRT, but requires a substantially longer AV delay. However, AP results in modest reductions of LV filling and stoke volume. Further studies are needed to assess the long‐term impact of AP on HF functional status and LV remodeling.
EXPERIENCE IN THE CONTROL OF SHIPS BY RIGHT ANGLE DRIVE THRUSTERS
Authors: DEWHURST PETER K. 
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACTThe theory of control of ships presents extremely complex problems and a general policy for their solution is proposed.Standard forms of charts governing propeller performance are analyzed and interpreted for three special cases: namely, constant rpm, constant torque, and constant power.The application of propeller characteristics to Steerable Right Angle Drive units is discussed in conjunction with accounts of some full scale experiments.The steering characteristics of ships, and in particular the motion of a scow in steady state turning, are reviewed.Certain characteristic features applicable to various layouts of S.R.A.D. units are also investigated.A suggested method for establishing an initial choice of power for tunnel bow thruster installations is developed by non‐dimensional analysis.
REPLENISHMENT AT SEA
Authors: MITCHELL K. J. , STRONG D. J. 
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACTThe paper reviews the present state of development of a new form of replenishment‐at‐sea system, for use in Sea State 6 conditions, being developed jointly by G.E.C. (Process Engineering) Ltd. and the Ministry of Defense (Naval). The theoretical principles behind the new system are described in some detail and the essential control relationships are presented. A variety of analogue computer outputs contrasting the behavior of the new system as compared to constant tension systems, are discussed and illustrated.A fundamental objective in evolving the control philosophy for the new system has been to eliminate the oscillatory tendency present in a constant tension system. This tendency is discussed and the reasons for it determined. It is shown that a system in which control is based only on tension measurement is fundamentally unsatisfactory in the sense that it cannot meet in an adequate manner the various requirements of an R.A.S. System designed to work in rough sea conditions. The reasons for this state of affairs are described. A table comparing performance of existing Royal Navy Systems with the new system is presented. The prototype hardware being built for sea trials in the late summer of 1970 is described and illustrated.
MECHANICAL SYSTEMS FOR OCEAN ENGINEERING
Authors: SOUTHERLAND ARTHUR 
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACTThis paper will discuss mechanical handling systems associated with ocean engineering operations and limitations of present handling system in salvage and rescue operations including problem areas in handling of submersible vehicles and other large objects at sea. Ship motion and payload response to various sea conditions will be evaluated. Emphasis will be placed on the effect of relative motion and the associated dynamic loads imposed on the handling gear. Methods of motion compensation and load attenuation will be examined.
FIRE SAFETY—NEED FOR REGULATION
Authors: KERLIN DONALD J. 
Published: March 2009

AbstractOn 10 August 1971, the President of the United States signed into law the Federal Boat Safety Act of 1971 (PL 92‐75). This law gives the Coast Guard statutory authority to promulgate safety standards for recreational boats and associated equipment. In establishing a need for formulating and prescribing regulations and standards we must: 1) consider the need for and the extent to which the regulations or standards will contribute to boating safety; 2) consider relevant available boat safety standards, statistics and data, including public and private research, development, testing, and evaluation; 3) consider whether any proposed regulation or standard is reasonable and appropriate for the particular type of boat or associated equipment for which it is prescribed; and 4) consult with the Boating Safety Advisory Council comprising 7 State Boating Administrators, 7 Industry Representatives and 7 Public Members.The presentation herein is an example of a justification for need in one particular area—FIRE SAFETY. However, it will be demonstrated that the approach is and can be used for other standards applications. Examples of these will be described.
Modular Ship Design Concepts
Authors: JOLLIFF JAMES V. 
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACTThis paper reviews past and present modular ship concepts with a basic thrust toward detailing the latest advances in the state‐of‐the‐art of modular design techniques which are being considered in future developments.A proposed methodology for the evaluation of ship modularity and module category definitions is provided. The crucial issues affecting the use of modularity are discussed, and the benefits and negative aspects of modularity in ship design are summarized.The impact of the modular concept on the ship design process is analyzed and conclusions are drawn as to the concept's technical and economic feasibility.
Computer‐Aided Ship Arrangement Design
Authors: Carlson Craig M. , Cebulski Donald R. 
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACTIn this paper, the goals of a computer‐aided arrangement design system are discussed; the requirements of such a system outlined; and the current state of computer‐aided ship arrangement design reviewed with regard to these requirements and goals.The required features of a complete ship arrangement design system are discussed. These features include interactive graphics, central data base, user oriented approach, realistic input requirements, three dimensional design capability, useful output, multiple entry or exit points, and the ability to optimize. Existing ship arrangement programs, most of which were developed for the Navy, are reviewed and compared with the requirements and goals outlined above. The history of these programs demonstrates the iterative nature of the development of computer‐aided design systems.The primary goal of computer‐aided ship arrangement design is to improve the quantity and quality of arrangement design by reaching a balance between man and machine in order to let the designer concentrate on designing.