bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Database of traditional Chinese medicine and its application to studies of mechanism and to prescription validation
Authors: Chen X , Zhou H , Liu Y B , Wang J F , Li H , Ung C Y , Han L Y , Cao Z W , Chen Y Z 
Published: November 2006

Background and purpose:Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is widely practised and is viewed as an attractive alternative to conventional medicine. Quantitative information about TCM prescriptions, constituent herbs and herbal ingredients is necessary for studying and exploring TCM.Experimental approach:We manually collected information on TCM in books and other printed sources in Medline. The Traditional Chinese Medicine Information Database TCM‐ID, at http://bidd.group/TCMID/, was introduced for providing comprehensive information about all aspects of TCM including prescriptions, constituent herbs, herbal ingredients, molecular structure and functional properties of active ingredients, therapeutic and side effects, clinical indication and application and related matters.Results:TCM‐ID currently contains information for 1,588 prescriptions, 1,313 herbs, 5,669 herbal ingredients, and the 3D structure of 3,725 herbal ingredients. The value of the data in TCM‐ID was illustrated by using some of the data for an in‐silico study of molecular mechanism of the therapeutic effects of herbal ingredients and for developing a computer program to validate TCM multi‐herb preparations.Conclusions and Implications:The development of systems biology has led to a new design principle for therapeutic intervention strategy, the concept of ‘magic shrapnel’ (rather than the ‘magic bullet’), involving many drugs against multiple targets, administered in a single treatment. TCM offers an extensive source of examples of this concept in which several active ingredients in one prescription are aimed at numerous targets and work together to provide therapeutic benefit. The database and its mining applications described here represent early efforts toward exploring TCM for new theories in drug discovery.British Journal of Pharmacology (2006) 149, 1092–1103. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0706945
(+/−)‐Naringenin as large conductance Ca2+‐activated K+ (BKCa) channel opener in vascular smooth muscle cells
Authors: Saponara S , Testai L , Iozzi D , Martinotti E , Martelli A , Chericoni S , Sgaragli G , Fusi F , Calderone V 
Published: November 2006

Background and purpose.The aim of this study was to investigate, in vascular smooth muscle cells, the mechanical and electrophysiological effects of (+/−)‐naringenin.Experimental approach.Aorta ring preparations and single tail artery myocytes were employed for functional and patch‐clamp experiments, respectively.Key results.(+/−)‐Naringenin induced concentration‐dependent relaxation in endothelium‐denuded rat aortic rings pre‐contracted with either 20 mM KCl or noradrenaline (pIC50 values of 4.74 and 4.68, respectively). Tetraethylammonium, iberiotoxin, 4‐aminopyridine and 60 mM KCl antagonised (+/−)‐naringenin‐induced vasorelaxation, while glibenclamide did not produce any significant antagonism. Naringin [(+/−)‐naringenin 7‐β‐neohesperidoside] caused a concentration‐dependent relaxation of rings pre‐contracted with 20 mM KCl, although its potency and efficacy were significantly lower than those of (+/−)‐naringenin. In rat tail artery myocytes, (+/−)‐naringenin increased large conductance Ca2+‐activated K+ (BKCa) currents in a concentration‐dependent manner; this stimulation was iberiotoxin‐sensitive and fully reversible upon drug wash‐out. (+/−)‐Naringenin accelerated the activation kinetics of BKCa current, shifted, by 22 mV, the voltage dependence of the activation curve to more negative potentials, and decreased the slope of activation. (+/−)‐Naringenin‐induced stimulation of BKCa current was insensitive either to changes in the intracellular Ca2+ concentration or to the presence, in the pipette solution, of the fast Ca2+ chelator BAPTA. However, such stimulation was diminished when the K+ gradient across the membrane was reduced.Conclusions and Implications.The vasorelaxant effect of the naturally‐occurring flavonoid (+/−)‐naringenin on endothelium‐denuded vessels was due to the activation of BKCa channels in myocytes.British Journal of Pharmacology (2006) 149, 1013–1021. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0706951
Lovastatin protects human endothelial cells from the genotoxic and cytotoxic effects of the anticancer drugs doxorubicin and etoposide
Authors: Damrot J , Nübel T , Epe B , Roos W P , Kaina B , Fritz G 
Published: November 2006

Background and purpose:3‐Hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl‐coenzyme A (HMG‐CoA) reductase inhibitors (statins) are frequently used lipid‐lowering drugs. Moreover, they exert pleiotropic effects on cellular stress responses and death. Here, we analysed whether lovastatin affects the sensitivity of primary human endothelial cells (HUVEC) to the anticancer drug doxorubicin.Experimental approach:We investigated whether pretreatment of HUVEC with low dose of lovastatin influences the cellular sensitivity to doxorubicin. To this end, cell viability, proliferation and apoptosis as well as DNA damage‐triggered stress response were analysed.Key results:Lovastatin reduced the cytotoxic potency of doxorubicin in HUVEC. Lovastatin attenuated the doxorubicin‐induced increase in p53 as well as activation of checkpoint kinase (Chk‐1) and stress‐activated protein kinase/c‐Jun‐N‐terminal kinase (SAPK/JNK). Acquired doxorubicin resistance was independent of alterations in doxorubicin efflux and cell cycle progression. Also, doxorubicin‐triggered production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and formation of oxidative DNA lesions remained unaffected by lovastatin. However, lovastatin impaired DNA strand break formation induced by doxorubicin. Notably, lovastatin also conferred cross‐resistance to the cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of etoposide, indicating that lovastatin shields topoisomerase II against poisons.Conclusions and implications:Based on these data, we suggest that lovastatin‐mediated resistance to topoisomerase II inhibitors is due to a reduction in DNA damage and, hence, it attenuates stress responses leading to cell death that are triggered by DNA damage. Therefore, lovastatin might be useful clinically for alleviating side‐effects of anticancer therapies that include topoisomerase II inhibitors.British Journal of Pharmacology(2006)149, 988–997. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0706953
A new cone beam computerized tomography system for use in endodontic surgery
Authors: Tsurumachi T. , Honda K. 
Published: November 2006

AbstractAim  To present a newly developed cone beam computerized tomography system (3DX Micro‐CT) and its application in endodontic surgery.Summary  Cone beam CT has attracted considerable attention as a new diagnostic imaging technique in dentistry. The assessment of fractured endodontic instruments and the planning of endodontic surgery present challenges that conventional radiography cannot meet successfully. In this report, the value of the 3DX cone beam computerized radiography system is illustrated by the case of a fractured endodontic instrument protruding into the maxillary sinus.Key learning points• Cone beam CT is helpful for diagnosis and treatment planning in endodontic surgery.• Hemisection is an important treatment alternative to save at least a part of the tooth.
Taxonomic and biogeographical status of guanaco Lama guanicoe (Artiodactyla, Camelidae)
Authors: GONZÁLEZ BENITO A. , PALMA R. EDUARDO , ZAPATA BEATRIZ , MARÍN JUAN C. 
Published: November 2006

ABSTRACT

We review the status of the four currently recognized guanaco Lama guanicoe subspecies, and provide information about their taxonomy and distribution. The success of guanaco in inhabiting open habitats of South America is based mainly on the flexibility of their social behaviour and ecophysiological adaptations to harsh environments.
Lönnberg described the first subspecies, L. g. cacsilensis, at the beginning of the 20th century. Forty years later Krumbiegel described L. g. voglii, based on skull measurements and pelage colouration. The other two subspecies, L. g. huanacus and L. g. guanicoe, were classified as subspecies by Krumbiegel based on pelage colouration and body size, while maintaining the original Latin names and descriptors.
Further guanaco populations have been incorporated into each of these subspecies, based on their proximity to the type locality but without attention to the homogeneity of phenotype or habitat and only limited consideration of Bergmann’s rule based on scarce skulls. Two alternative geographical ranges were proposed in the middle and towards the end of the 20th century. Discrepancies occur in the geographical range of each subspecies.
Molecular studies based on mitochondrial DNA cytochrome b sequences recognized only two subspecies: the Peruvian L. guanicoe cacsilensis and the rest of the populations grouped in the clade recognized as L. g. guanicoe. We conclude that the evolutionary biology of L. guanicoe requires a significant revision with respect to biogeography. Phylogeographical data hold particular value in developing conservation strategies, particularly for some of the reduced and marginal populations and/or subspecies and will support IUCN (The World Conservation Union) Red List classification.
Clinical, histological and immunohistochemical study of feline viral plaques and bowenoid in situ carcinomas
Authors: Wilhelm Sylvia , Degorce‐Rubiales Frederique , Godson Dale , Favrot Claude 
Published: November 2006

AbstractFeline viral plaques (FVP) induced by papillomavirus (PV) are often hyperpigmented and flat warts. The fact that up to 47% of bowenoid in situ carcinomas (BISC), which also usually occur in the form of hyperpigmented plaques, are positive for PV antigen in immunochemistry suggests that BISC could evolve from FVP.The relationship between the presence of PV antigens and the clinical and histological features of 26 cases of feline dermatoses (clinically described as pigmented plaques and with histological diagnosis of FVP and/or BISC) was therefore determined. The cases were classified into one of the three following groups: FVP, FVP + BISC or BISC. Immunohistological detection of papillomavirus group‐specific antigen was performed using a polyclonal rabbit antibovine papillomavirus antiserum.Of the seven cases in the FVP group, six were deemed positive by immunohistology as were all 10 cats in the FVP + BISC group. On the other hand, only one of the nine BISC cats was positive. The presence of both FVP and BISC lesions in some cats and the high detection rate of PV antigens in the FVP and FVP + BISC groups suggest that both conditions might have the same viral cause and that some BISC may evolve from FVP. The low rate of viral antigen detection in the BISC group indicates another cause or a loss of viral replication during the cancerogenesis.
Inside the black box of shared decision making: distinguishing between the process of involvement and who makes the decision
Authors: Edwards Adrian , Elwyn Glyn 
Published: November 2006

AbstractBackground Shared decision making has practical implications for everyday health care. However, it stems from largely theoretical frameworks and is not widely implemented in routine practice.Aims We undertook an empirical study to inform understanding of shared decision making and how it can be operationalized more widely.Method The study involved patients visiting UK general practitioners already well experienced in shared decision making. After these consultations, semi‐structured telephone interviews were conducted and analysed using the constant comparative method of content analysis.Results All patients described at least some components of shared decision making but half appeared to perceive the decision as shared and half as ‘patient‐led’. However, patients exhibited some uncertainty about who had made the decision, reflecting different meanings of decision making from those described in the literature. A distinction is indicated between the process of involvement (option portrayal, exchange of information and exploring preferences for who makes the decision) and the actual decisional responsibility (who makes the decision). The process of involvement appeared to deliver benefits for patients, not the action of making the decision. Preferences for decisional responsibility varied during some consultations, generating unsatisfactory interactions when actual decisional responsibility did not align with patient preferences at that stage of a consultation. However, when conducted well, shared decision making enhanced reported satisfaction, understanding and confidence in the decisions.Conclusions Practitioners can focus more on the process of involving patients in decision making rather than attaching importance to who actually makes the decision. They also need to be aware of the potential for changing patient preferences for decisional responsibility during a consultation and address non‐alignment of patient preferences with the actual model of decision making if this occurs.
Microgametophyte population sizes and plant reproductive output in the insect‐pollinated Prunella grandiflora (Lamiaceae)
Authors: Bernasconi Giorgina , Lang Daniela J. , Schmid Bernhard 
Published: November 2006

Summary
Intraspecific variation in pollen deposition and number of pollen tubes per style is rarely quantified, but is essential for assessing the occurrence of pollen limitation and pollen competition and their evolutionary implications. Moreover, pollen deposition, pollen tube growth, and the fate of fertilized ovules are rarely distinguished in field studies. Here we present such a study in eight natural populations of Prunella grandiflora.
We quantified microgametophyte population sizes and inferred pollen limitation when the number of fertilizable ovules exceeded pollen tubes, and assessed seed set and fate after open pollination.
Two and three populations had on average significantly fewer pollen grains and pollen tubes per flower, respectively, than the fixed number of fertilizable ovules per fruit, while one population experienced significant pollen competition. Style length was positively correlated with the number of pollen tubes. While pollen availability was very variable, seed abortion was significantly less frequent in denser populations, and in one population the proportion of well‐developed seeds was significantly, positively correlated with the number of pollen tubes in the style.
Less pollen deposition, lower numbers of pollen tubes reaching the base of the style, lower pollen quality and therefore increased abortion of fertilized ovules can all reduce seed set in natural P. grandiflora stands. Substantial intraspecific variability implies that microgametophyte competition also occurs in this species. Finally, style morphology may affect pollen receipt.
Training of disaster managers at a masters degree level: From emergency care to managerial control
Authors: MacFarlane Campbell , Joffe Anthony Lyle , Naidoo Shan 
Published: November 2006

AbstractThe world has faced huge disasters over the last few decades and concerns have been expressed by nearly all international agencies involved that there is a scarcity of managerial skills to deal with the mitigation and management of disasters. Disaster risks are also on the increase throughout Africa and Southern Africa because of changes in the development process, settlement patterns and conflicts in the region. Emergency physicians are but one important resource in dealing with disasters. The need for a comprehensive multisectoral approach to disasters and more importantly to deal with its mitigation is becoming increasingly evident, especially in developing countries. Hence, the need for specially trained professionals in disaster management. In an effort to improve national, regional and continental capacity, and in support of the South African Disaster Management Act, the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa, has developed a Master of Public Health degree in Disaster Management. The MPH is aimed at preparing professionals from health and allied fields to play leadership roles in the management, improvement and evaluation of health and the health‐care system. Emergency physicians have an important role to play in the development of disaster medicine and disaster management programmes and it is important that they engage in this activity, collaborating with colleagues of various other disciplines as appropriate. The following paper outlines the background to the programme and the current programme.
Psychiatric Illness Presenting with a Sexual Complaint and Management by Psychotropic Medications: A Case Report
Authors: Krychman Michael , Carter Jeanne , Amsterdam Alison 
Published: November 2006

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Sexual medicine healthcare professionals, who do not normally examine men and women with psychiatric disorders, need to be aware that those with psychiatric disorders can and do present with sexual medicine problems. In particular, psychiatric individuals may present with a variety of delusions including those that have sexual content or sexual implications. The rare disorder of reverse delusional misidentification syndrome may be encountered in schizophrenic patients and may be best managed by the combined team effort of a sexual medicine specialist and psychiatrist.

Aim
To report a case study that reiterates the assessment and sexual medicine management of a female with sexual dysfunction who believed she was transforming into a male.

Methods
Case report of a woman who attended an outpatient clinic in an academic medical center.

Results
A 60-year-old woman with a history of paranoid schizophrenia presented to a gynecologist for ovarian cancer screening. Evaluation revealed complaints that the patient’s ovaries were testes that produced sperm and her clitoris was a penis capable of erection and ejaculation. Gynecological examination revealed only atrophic vaginitis. The patient was treated with local minimally absorbed vaginal estrogens and referred for psychological assessment and counseling. Psychotropic medication compliance was encouraged, weekly psychotherapy was continued, and delusional symptoms were minimized.

Conclusion
Sexual medicine healthcare providers should be prepared to manage sex health concerns of men and women with psychiatric disorders, including delusional misidentification syndrome, in conjunction with a psychiatrist.
Sexual Outcomes and Satisfaction with Hysterectomy: Influence of Patient Education
Authors: Bradford Andrea , Meston Cindy 
Published: November 2006

ABSTRACTIntroductionMany women experience improved sexual function after hysterectomy. However, a sizeable minority of women report worsened sexual function after the surgery, and concerns about the effect of surgery on sexual function are common among women planning to undergo hysterectomy.AimThe present study examined the role of education about the potential sexual consequences of hysterectomy in predicting self-reported outcomes and satisfaction with the procedure.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional survey of 204 women who had undergone simple hysterectomy in the preceding 3–12 months. Participants volunteered in response to a Web-based advertisement.Main Outcome MeasuresParticipants indicated their current sexual function using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), and reported positive and negative sexual outcomes experienced after hysterectomy using a checklist. Participants also completed questionnaire items regarding satisfaction with hysterectomy and education from their physicians about sexual risks and benefits prior to surgery.ResultsCurrent sexual function scores were related to self-reports of positive and negative sexual outcomes following hysterectomy and overall satisfaction with hysterectomy. Education from a physician about possible adverse sexual outcomes was largely unrelated to self-reports of having experienced those outcomes. However, education about possible negative sexual outcomes predicted overall satisfaction with hysterectomy when controlling for self-reports of positive and negative sexual outcomes.ConclusionEducation about potential negative sexual outcomes after surgery may enhance satisfaction with hysterectomy, independent of whether negative sexual outcomes were experienced. Including a discussion of potential sexual changes after surgery may enhance the benefits of presurgical counseling prior to hysterectomy.
Erectile Dysfunctions in Patient–Physician Communication: Optimized Strategies for Addressing Sexual Issues and the Benefit of Using a Patient Questionnaire
Authors: Hartmann Uwe , Burkart Martin 
Published: November 2006

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Erectile dysfunctions are prevalent but underdiagnosed and undertreated health problems. Communication barriers between patients and physicians are one of the main reasons for this and responsible for a low report rate of sexual dysfunction.

Aim
The main aim of the study was to investigate which phrasing and communication strategies gained the highest acceptance from physicians and their patients and were considered the most effective.

Main Outcome Measures
A documentation form on which each consultation was rated by the participating physicians.

Methods
A large group of physicians was asked to hand out a short patient questionnaire to all male patients over 30 years. The physician was instructed to discuss the questionnaire with the patient and to ask him about sexual problems. A total of 1,191 physicians took part in the study that documented a total of 10,622 consultations with an average duration of 15 minutes.

Results
The main results were: (i) the patient questionnaire found a high level of acceptance and 54% of discussions of sexual health were prompted by it; (ii) the patients’ reaction to physicians addressing sexual health was positive in more than two-thirds of the sample and characterized by openness, willingness to communicate, and relief that their sexual problems had been addressed; (iii) from the physicians’ perspective, the most favored communication strategies were a clear signaling of a willingness to talk, and addressing treatment possibilities or signaling that help was available; and (iv) the resulting discussion led to further diagnostic measures in 25% of patients and to further therapeutic measures in 60% of patients.

Conclusion
There are good grounds for concluding that: (i) addressing a patient’s sexual health as part of a physician’s everyday routine is feasible in terms of duration and content; and (ii) a short patient questionnaire is an excellent aid for patients and physicians for initiating communication on the topic.