bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Functional and Morphological Improvement in Erectile Tissue of Hypertensive Rats by Long-Term Combined Therapy with Phosphodiesterase Type 5 Inhibitor and Losartan
Authors: Toblli Jorge Eduardo , Cao Gabriel , Lombraña Alejandra , Rivero Miguel 
Published: July 2007

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is highly associated to cardiovascular disease, especially arterial hypertension. Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARB) are both common and efficient therapy in patients with ED and arterial hypertension, respectively.

Aim
To evaluate the effect of PDE5 inhibitor, sildenafil (S), and of ARB Losartan (L) in a continuous combined therapy for a long term on penile structures in a hypertensive rat model.

Methods
During 6 months, four groups of male spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and one of Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats, as control group, were studied: no-treatment SHR, SHR with L, SHR with S, SHR with S+L, and no-treatment WKY. Cavernous smooth muscle (CSM) and vascular smooth muscle (VSM) from cavernous arteries, collagen type III (COL-III), and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) expression in cavernous space were evaluated.

Main Outcome Measure
Functional and morphological differences between S and L in a continuous combined therapy vs. either drug as monotherapy on penile structures.

Results
After 6 months, SHR that received L, S, or combined therapy showed a similar reduction in blood pressure compared with untreated SHR. Nevertheless, SHR+L+S and control WKY showed significantly lower values of (i) CSM (P  &lt; 0.01), (ii) VSM (P  &lt; 0.01), and (iii) COL-III (P  &lt; 0.01) when compared with the untreated SHR and also with the SHR with monotherapy. Additionally, SHR+L+S, presented a higher eNOS expression in sinusoidal endothelium in comparison with the untreated SHR and the SHR with monotherapy (P  &lt; 0.01). In vitro studies revealed that SHR+L+S displayed a better relaxation response to acetylcholine than the untreated SHR and the SHR with monotherapy (P  &lt; 0.01).

Conclusions
These results suggest that a long-term combined therapy using L and S is a useful tool for functional and structural modification in cavernous tissue from SHR.
Sex After Seventy: A Pilot Study of Sexual Function in Older Persons
Authors: Smith Lizette J. , Mulhall John P. , Deveci Serkan , Monaghan Niall , Reid M.C. 
Published: July 2007

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Limited information is available regarding sexual functioning among adults aged 70 years and older.

Aims
To assess sexual functioning among older men and women, and ascertain patient–physician communication patterns about sexual functioning.

Methods
Prospective participants were approached prior to scheduled appointments with their primary care physician. In-depth sexual histories were obtained along with data on their demographic, medical, psychological, and cognitive status.

Main Outcome Measures
Sexual functioning was assessed using standardized questionnaires, and simple yes/no questions were administered to ascertain information regarding patient–physician communication practices about sex.

Results
Of the 74 eligible patients approached, 50 (68%) participated. The participants had a mean age ± standard deviation (SD) of 81 ± 6 years and most (56%) were women. Eighteen percent of the women and 41% of the men were sexually active. The most commonly reported sexual activity was intercourse for men and masturbation for women. Among the women, the most commonly cited reason for being sexually inactive was “no desire,” whereas for most men, it was “erectile dysfunction.” Sexual function scores for women were low across each category (lubrication, desire, orgasm, arousal, pain, and satisfaction.) For men, low sexual function scores were found in the domains of erectile function, orgasm, and overall satisfaction, but not desire. Only 4% of the women (vs. 36% of men) reported initiating a discussion about sexual function with their physician in the past year, whereas 7% of the women (vs. 32% of men) reported that their physician inquired about the topic in the preceding year. Finally, 32% of the women (vs. 86% of men) felt that physicians should initiate discussions about sexual function.

Conclusion
In this study of older adults, a minority reported current sexual activity. Among sexually inactive women, most did not wish to resume activity, whereas desire for sexual activity remained high among men, despite substantial problems with erectile dysfunction.
Effect of Hyperprolactinemia in Male Patients Consulting for Sexual Dysfunction
Authors: Corona Giovanni , Mannucci Edoardo , Fisher Alessandra D. , Lotti Francesco , Ricca Valdo , Balercia Giancarlo , Petrone Luisa , Forti Gianni , Maggi Mario 
Published: July 2007

ABSTRACT

Introduction
The physiological role of prolactin (PRL) in male sexual function has not been completely clarified.

Aim
The aim of this study is the assessment of clinical features and of conditions associated with hyperprolactinemia in male patients consulting for sexual dysfunction.

Methods
A consecutive series of 2,146 (mean age 52.2 ± 12.8 years) male patients with sexual dysfunction was studied.

Main Outcome Measures
Several hormonal and biochemical parameters were studied along with validated structured interviews (ANDROTEST and the Structured Interview on Erectile Dysfunction [SIEDY]). Mild hyperprolactinemia (MHPRL; PRL levels of 420–735 mU/L or 20–35 ng/mL) and severe hyperprolactinemia (SHPRL, PRL levels &gt;735 mU/L, 35 ng/mL) were considered.

Results
MHPRL and SHPRL were found in 69 (3.3%) and in 32 (1.5%) patients, respectively. Mean age and the prevalence of gynecomastia were similar in the two groups and in subjects with normal prolactin values. MHPRL was not confirmed in almost one-half of the patients after repetitive venous sampling. Hyperprolactinemia was associated with the current use of antidepressants, antipsychotic drugs, and benzamides. SHPRL was also associated with hypoactive sexual desire (HSD), elevated thyrotropin (TSH), and hypogonadism. The association between HSD and SHPRL was confirmed after adjustment for testosterone and TSH levels, and use of psychotropic drugs (hazard ratio [HR]=8.60[3.85–19.23]; P &lt;0.0001). In a 6-month follow-up of patients with SHPRL, testosterone levels and sexual desire were significantly improved by the treatment.

Conclusions
Our data indicate that SHPRL, but not MHPRL, is a relevant determinant of HSD. Gynecomastia does not help in recognizing hyperprolactinemic subjects, while the use of psychotropic medications and HSD are possible markers of disease. In the case of MHPRL, repetitive venous sampling is strongly encouraged.
SIDEROPHORE PRODUCTION, SERUM RESISTANCE, HEMOLYTIC ACTIVITY AND EXTENDED‐SPECTRUM β‐LACTAMASE‐PRODUCING KLEBSIELLA SPECIES ISOLATED FROM MILK AND MILK PRODUCTS
Authors: GUNDOGAN NESLİHAN , YAKAR UFUK AYDIN 
Published: July 2007

ABSTRACT This study aimed at the isolation and identification of Klebsiella spp. from dairy product to establish their public health significance by determining their virulence factors, antibiotic resistance and extended‐spectrum β‐lactamase (ESBL). Klebsiella pneumoniae, Klebsiella oxytoca and Klebsiella rhinoscleromatis were identified in 25 (58%), 11 (26%) and 7 (16%) isolates, respectively. A high prevalence of Klebsiella isolates had virulence factors such as siderophore production (63%), serum resistance (32.5%) and hemolytic activity (58%). ESBL‐producing Klebsiella spp. was detected in 35% of the isolates. Resistance to the antimicrobial agents tested was found to be much higher in the ESBL‐producing Klebsiella spp. than in non‐ESBL‐producing isolates. All ESBL‐producing Klebsiella spp. showed high‐level resistance to cephalosporins and monobactams. The majority of the serum resistant, siderophore, hemolysin and ESBL producers were K. pneumoniae.
VALIDATION OF HEATING CONDITIONS IN PRODUCTION OF DIRECT ACIDIFIED BEEF SUMMER SAUSAGE FOR ELIMINATION OF ESCHERICHIA COLI O157:H7
Authors: GETTY KELLY J.K. , SYNOGROUND ADAM , ROBERTS MICHELLE N. 
Published: July 2007

ABSTRACT The effectiveness of a typical production process for eliminating Escherichia coli O157:H7 in directly acidified all‐beef summer sausage was evaluated for formulations of different fat contents (approximately 8 and 17%) and types of direct acidulant (encapsulated citric or lactic acid). Raw batter inoculated with E. coli O157:H7 to an initial level of ca. 7.4 log cfu/g was stuffed into 64‐mm casings and processed according to a thermal processing schedule used by a small commercial processor for directly acidified summer sausage products (maximum internal product temperature of 70C, followed by cold showering). For all‐beef summer sausage, log reductions ranged from 5.3 to 5.5 cfu/g when product reached 64.4C (148F) internal temperature (IT) and 70C (158F) IT, and from 6.3 to 6.5 log cfu/g reductions when product reached 37.8C (100F) IT after thermal processing and cold showering. No differences in E. coli O157:H7 counts were observed for products with different fat or acid contents.
Early detection of autism spectrum disorders: Screening between 12 and 24 months of age
Authors: Nadel Stephen , Poss Jane E. 
Published: July 2007

AbstractPurpose: The purpose of this article is to present nurse practitioners (NPs) with information on screening for autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) in children between 12 and 24 months of age. Recommendations are also provided for appropriate referrals and initiation of early intervention (EI).Data sources: Review of published literature about ASD.Conclusions: Children with ASD exhibit impaired social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication deficits, and repetitive, restricted, and stereotyped patterns of behavior or interests. Studies show that these children benefit from beginning intensive EI as soon as possible.Implications for practice: Early detection enables children with suspected ASD to be evaluated by specialists and entered into treatment programs at the earliest possible opportunity. Because of the importance of early diagnosis of ASD, it is critical that NPs use established screening instruments to maximize time and increase the reliability of the assessment.
Care of the menopausal patient: A nurse practitioner’s view
Authors: Dehn Barbara 
Published: July 2007

AbstractPurpose: To evaluate the benefits and risks of hormone therapy (HT) and other treatment options for early postmenopausal women.Data sources: Published clinical trials, selected peer‐reviewed literature, and recent clinical practice guidelines.Conclusions: Results of the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) studies on HT may not be directly applicable to healthy, early postmenopausal women suffering from hot flushes. HT is the most effective treatment for menopausal symptoms. The benefits of HT in relieving menopausal symptoms are likely to exceed the risks in this population.Implications for practice: The results of the WHI reinforce the importance of individualized care based on a woman’s medical history, medical needs, and desired outcomes. Nurse practitioners can help their patients put recent results into perspective. When HT is used, nurse practitioners should consider using lower doses and reevaluate the need for therapy annually.
The Appraisal of Environmentally Sensitive Options for Flood Alleviation Using Mathematical Modelling
Authors: GARDINER J. L. , DEARSLEY A. F. , WOOLNOUGH J. R. 
Published: July 2007

SYNOPSISA Study of the river Colne from Rickmansworth to its confluence with the river Thames at Staines was commissioned to examine the flood risk and alleviation possibilities. Holistic appraisal of the catchment involved a comprehensive assessment of environmental resources concurrently with hydrological analysis and construction of a one‐dimensional computational hydraulic model of the complex river, canal, and lake system.Model prediction of flood areas and depths allowed the potential flood damage to be assessed throughout the valley. An iterative process to derive the best practical environmental option was carried out interactively by the multi‐disciplinary team. This process was made possible by the swift analysis of alternative options provided by the river model.The nine local authorities and many environmental interest groups involved were consulted throughout, and advised on the formal and public consultation required to complete the study. The environmental framework and model will provide a test‐bed for the detailed design, construction, operation, and post‐investment phases. The model has been used already in the assessment of significant development planning proposals.
The Measurement of Plumbosolvency Propensity to Guide the Control of Lead in Tapwaters
Authors: COLLING J. H. , WHINCUP P. A. E. , HAYES C. R. 
Published: July 2007

SYNOPSISA laboratory‐scale lead‐pipe rig has been developed into an accelerated test for ‘plumbosolvency propensity’. High alkalinity water supplies from Anglian Water show either relatively high or low propensity characteristics which appear to be related to the form of the crystal deposit. These have been examined by scanning electron microscopy. The paper describes the uses of the test to (1) supplement random survey data, (2) investigate mixed waters, and (3) optimize orthophosphate dosing.
Developments in Water and Environmental Management in Europe
Authors: WADDINGTON J. IAN 
Published: July 2007

SYNOPSISThe paper traces the development of water services in Europe and their separation in most countries from other aspects of environmental management. Increasingly, decisions regarding management of the environment, both in relation to human health and protection of the ecosystem, have to be made on an inter‐sectoral basis. The interdependence of different parts of the ecosystem is emphasized together with the importance of pathways, involving transfer between air, water, soil, and biological tissue. Effective co‐ordination among the various sectors involved in environmental management is now a minimum requirement at national, regional, and local levels, and the pros and cons of fully integrated management are explored.
Biofouling in Wells and Aquifers
Authors: HOWSAM P. 
Published: July 2007

ABSTRACTThere is now a growing interest in the importance of bacteria in the understanding of groundwater resources and groundwater engineering. With increasing economic and practical pressures on engineers to optimize groundwater engineering, attention is being turned to well performance. Presently, in water engineering practice there are significant gaps in the understanding of the part played by bacteria in processes which lead to reduced well yield. This paper provides a summary of current knowledge and is based to a large degree on information generated at an international workshop and symposium on the subject, which the author attended in Canada and the USA in 1986, and also on recent studies in the UK.
Sludge Bulking Control with Ozone
Authors: Van LEEUWEN J. , PRETORIUS W. A. 
Published: July 2007

ABSTRACTOzonation was studied as a non‐specific means of sludge bulking control. Direct ozonation at 6 g/m3 influent, i.e. 4 gO3/kg sludge per day into the aeration basin of a 150 l/d Phoredox system controlled the growth of filamentous organisms and improved the settleability of the sludge. Bulking control with ozone is not significantly more expensive than with chlorine or with larger settler capacity.
The Bramham Incident, 1980 ‐ An Outbreak of Water‐borne Infection
Authors: SHORT C. S. 
Published: July 2007

SYNOPSISAN OUTBREAK OF gastro‐enteritis in several villages to the North East of Leeds, England, in July 1980 was rapidly traced to the water supply. One of the source boreholes was found to be contaminated by sewage from faulty sewers, via the Magnesian limestone. The combination of circumstances which allowed the contaminated water to enter the supply are described, as are the ways in which systems were improved to prevent any similar incident occurring
The Operational Use of River Corridor Surveys in River Management
Authors: ASH J. R. V. , WOODCOCK E. P. 
Published: July 2007

AbstractThe year 1987‐88 has been designated as European Year of the Environment (EYE). It is against this background that the paper has been prepared, to illustrate how the differing requirements of the river engineer and the conservationist can be intergrated into a working practice for dredging.The paper outlines the procedures and practices adopted by the Norwich Division of Anglian Water (AW) in implementing the policy decision of Anglian Water (AW) in implementing the policy decision to undertake River Corridor Surveys (RCSs) prior to all major dredging works.The requirements for the survey and the methodology are discussed, together with the reports produced and the audits carried out. Their impact and implications on the operational aspect of undertaking the dredging works, and the method used to prepare a working site plan and monitor the site are detailed, and some indication of costs is given.
Operating Experiences of Sludge Disinfection and Stabilization at Colburn Sewage Treatment Works, Yorkshire
Authors: HUDSON J. A. , BRUCE A. M. , OLIVER B. T. , AUTY D. 
Published: July 2007

ABSTRACTA NEW integrated sludge treatment plant was installed at Colburn sewage treatment works (STW) in 1986. The plant comprises a number of novel features including a continuous gravity thickener features including a continuous gravity thickener, a pasteurization unit using submerged combustion of digester gas for sludge heating, a peat‐bed odour control system, and a ‘pump‐our/pump‐in’prefabricated anaerobic digester. Plant operation is controlled automatically by a computer system The performance of the thickener has been in accordance with predictions and has achieved at least a halving of raw sludge volume. The submerged combustion plant has consistently heated the sludge to 70°C with high efficiency of gas utilization before the anaerobic digestion stage. Some problems were experienced with the continuity of supply of the raw sludge but overall the plant has performed very satisfactorily with the production of a high quality disinfected and stabilized sludge for use by local farmers.
Sewage Treatment by Reed Bed Systems
Authors: COOPER P. F. , HOBSON J. A. , JONES SUSAN 
Published: July 2007

ABSTRACTIn the past five years sewage‐treatment systems, based on artificial reed beds, have created much interest in Europe. In the UK, reed bed treatment systems have attracted this interest because of their potential for producing cost‐effective treatment for small communities. In 1985 a UK coordinating group was established to produce an integrated research and development programme for evaluating the process.This paper briefly describes the principles lying behind reed bed treatment systems, and outlines the progress which has been made to January 1988. The results of performance from eight full‐scale and pilot‐scale systems are presented in detail.
Research into Health Risks at Bathing Beaches in Hong Kong
Authors: HOLMES P. R. 
Published: July 2007

AbstractSTandARDS FOR water quality at bathing beaches are intended to protect the health of swimmers. Until recently no reliable data were available on the relationship between pollution levels as measured by indicator bacteria and the actual level of risk to swimmers. The standard used in Hong Kong uses running median levels of E. coli but is relatively lax, reflecting the lack of alternatives to what are, in some cases, moderately polluted beaches. A prospective epidemiological study has been undertaken to determine what the risks are to swimmers in such circumstances and hence to determine the required level of pollution control. It has been established that there are higher rates of minor ailments among swimmers than among non‐swimming control groups, and that the excess illness rates are pollution‐related for most symptom categories, except eye symptoms. The best indicators were found to be E. coli, and staphylococci. The existing limit of acceptability applied in Hong Kong corresponds to a risk of 15 skin and gastrointestinal cases per thousand swimmers, a reasonably low rate but still a significant public health problem when multiplied by the very large number of swimmers using the beaches in Hong Kong every year.
Environmental River Engineering
Authors: HEY R. D. 
Published: July 2007

ABSTRACTIn the past, river engineering works have often caused channel instability and adversely affected the river's conservation and amenity value. Recent guidelines have advocated a more natural approach to river engineering practice which retains habitat diversity within the river system. While a more natural approach is desirable, geomorphological guidance is required to ensure that the advocated changes are feasible and sustainable, both in the long and short term. The key requirement for sound environmental river engineering is a basic understanding of the natural processes controlling channel shape and dimensions. Examples are given in the paper to illustrate how such knowledge can be used to (a) stabilize rivers, (b) design environmentally‐acceptable and stable flood‐alleviation schemes, and (c) restore previously canalized rivers. The basis of the geomorphological input in the assessment and design process is a river survey which determines the factors controlling channel characteristics and how it will respond to planned changes.
Isle of Wight Water Metering Trial
Authors: SMITH A. L. , ROGERS D. V. 
Published: July 2007

ABSTRACTThe Isle of Wight water metering trial is one of twelve being conducted in England and Wales. The paper describes the consultations that were undertaken, leading up to the design of a metered tariff to meet local requirements. The trial was designed to investigate the problems which a large‐scale implementation of water metering would have and specifically examines meters placed either within a property or laid at the property boundary. The particular problems that arose are discussed, and the problems associated with electrical earthing are briefly described.The trial, which commenced in the autumn of 1988, involves installing a water meter in all 53 000 Island properties. Southern Water Services Ltd engaged Southern Projects (a sister company within the Southern Water Group) to organize the installation work.The paper outlines the principal activities of how the trial was planned and executed, with some thoughts on the problems arising during the installation phase.
Network Management ‐ The Bradford Experience
Authors: WHITAKER R. P. , NEWSOME C. D. , PARVIN M. R. 
Published: July 2007

ABSTRACTThe paper reviews the concept of network management in the Western Division of Yorkshire Water and looks closely at its implementation in the Bradford area, together with the role played by an integrated team of staff from Yorkshire Water and Parkman Consulting Engineers.The individual initiatives which have been integrated into the network‐management programme are identified, and progress on the major ones ‐ network analysis, leakage control, pressure reduction, and telemetry ‐ is discussed together with the details of planned future extensions and developments.
River Catchment Planning for Land Drainage, Flood Defence and the Environment
Authors: GARDINER J. L. 
Published: July 2007

ABSTRACTThe paper describes the changing face of river engineering. The environmental assessment procedure implicit in the Water Act 1989 and explicit in other recent legislation requires review of traditional methodology in the context of the entire river catchment environment. Local deficiencies in performance levels, especially in urbanizing catchments, must be interpreted in this light.This approach has been made possible by advances in analytical and computational techniques matched by hardware design. Investigations of problem areas can now be specified as part of a developing integrated river catchment plan, supported by adaptable models and capable of playing an increasingly confident role in strategic land‐use planning.