bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Binding of Plasma Membrane Lipids Recruits the Yeast Integral Membrane Protein Ist2 to the Cortical ER
Authors: Fischer Marcel André , Temmerman Koen , Ercan Ebru , Nickel Walter , Seedorf Matthias
Published: May 2009

Recruitment of cytosolic proteins to individual membranes is governed by a combination of protein–protein and protein–membrane interactions. Many proteins recognize phosphatidylinositol 4,5‐bisphosphate [PI(4,5)P2] at the cytosolic surface of the plasma membrane (PM). Here, we show that a protein–lipid interaction can also serve as a dominant signal for the sorting of integral membrane proteins. Interaction with phosphatidly‐inositolphosphates (PIPs) at the PM is involved in the targeting of the polytopic yeast protein Ist2 to PM‐associated domains of the cortical endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Moreover, binding of PI(4,5)P2 at the PM functions as a dominant mechanism that targets other integral membrane proteins to PM‐associated domains of the cortical ER. This sorting to a subdomain of the ER abolishes proteasomal degradation and trafficking along the classical secretory (sec) pathway. In combination with the localization of IST2 mRNA to the bud tip and other redundant signals in Ist2, binding of PIPs leads to efficient accumulation of Ist2 at domains of the cortical ER from where the protein may reach the PM independently of the function of the sec‐pathway.
Taking the Scenic Route: Biosynthetic Traffic to the Plasma Membrane in Polarized Epithelial Cells
Authors: Fölsch Heike , Mattila Polly E. , Weisz Ora A.
Published: May 2009

The maintenance of epithelial cell function requires the establishment and continuous renewal of differentiated apical and basolateral plasma membrane domains with distinct lipid and protein compositions. Newly synthesized proteins destined for either surface domain are processed along the biosynthetic pathway and segregated into distinct subsets of transport carriers emanating from the trans‐Golgi network. Recent studies have illuminated additional complexities in the subsequent delivery of these proteins to the cell surface. In particular, multiple routes to the apical and basolateral cell surfaces have been uncovered, and many of these involve indirect passage through endocytic compartments. This review summarizes our current understanding of these routes and discusses open issues that remain to be clarified.
Endothelial progenitor cells and arterial functions in the late convalescence period of Kawasaki disease
Authors: Liu Xiao‐qin , Huang Guo‐ying , Liang Xue‐cun , Ma Xiao‐jing
Published: May 2009

Aim:  The relationship was investigated between endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) level and arterial functions in the convalescence of Kawasaki disease (KD).

Methods:  Sixty‐three children were divided into coronary artery lesion (CAL) group (group 1, n = 21), non‐CAL group (group 2, n = 20) and control group (group 3, n = 22). EPCs were examined by flow cytometry and arterial functions (flow‐mediated dilation [FMD], carotid artery stiffness index [SI]) were measured by ultrasound.

Results:  From group1 to group 3, FMD was 4.5%± 1.5%, 9.5%± 2.8% and 12.1%± 2.3% (p < 0.01 between any two groups); carotid artery SI was 4.10 ± 0.44, 3.81 ± 0.50 and 3.59 ± 0.46 (group 1 vs. group 2, p < 0.05; group 1 vs. group 3, p < 0.01; group 2 vs. group 3, p = 0.142) and the number of EPCs was 2.0 ± 0.6/μL, 4.2 ± 0.8/μL, 4.5 ± 0.7/μL (p < 0.01 for group1 vs. group 2 and group 1 vs. group 3; group 2 vs. group 3, p = 0.292). Multiple linear regressions analysis and correlation analysis identified that FMD and carotid artery SI were significant determinants of EPCs level and were all independently correlated with EPCs level.

Conclusions:  Our results indicate decreased EPCs are associated with arterial dysfunction in patients with CAL in the convalescence of KD. Our findings suggest EPCs may have a role in alteration of arterial functions.
Early Bone Healing around Different Implant Bulk Designs and Surgical Techniques: A Study in Dogs
Authors: Coelho Paulo G. , Suzuki Marcelo , Guimaraes Marcia V.M. , Marin Charles , Granato Rodrigo , Gil Jose N. , Miller Robert J.
Published: May 2009

Purpose: To evaluate the bone healing response to different implant root shape designs in a dog model.

Materials and Methods: Three by eight millimeter screw‐type short‐pitch (SP) and large‐pitch (LP) implants (Intra‐Lock International, Boca Raton, FL, USA), and 4.5 × 6 mm plateau (P) implants (Bicon LLC, Boston, MA, USA) were placed along the proximal tibia of six dogs for 2 and 4 weeks. The combination of implant design and final osteotomy drilling resulted in healing chambers for the LP and P implants. The implants were nondecalcified processed to plates of ∼30‐µm thickness and were evaluated by optical microscopy for healing patterns and bone‐to‐implant contact (BIC). One‐way analysis of variance at 95% level of significance and Tukey's test were utilized for multiple comparisons among the groups' BIC.

Results: Microscopy showed a ∼150‐µm region of newly deposited bone along the whole perimeter of SP implants, near the edge of the LP implant threads, and plateau tips for P implants. Rapid woven bone formation and filling was observed in regions where surgery and implant design resulted in healing chambers. No significant differences in BIC were observed (p > .75).

Conclusions: Different implant design/surgical protocol resulted in varied bone healing patterns. However, the BIC and bone morphology evolution between implant designs were comparable. Regardless of the combination between implant design and final osteotomy drilling, bone morphology evolution from 2 to 4 weeks was comparable.
Influence of Implant Connection Type on the Biomechanical Environment of Immediately Placed Implants – CT‐Based Nonlinear, Three‐Dimensional Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Pessoa Roberto S. , Muraru Luiza , Júnior Elcio Marcantonio , Vaz Luis Geraldo , Sloten Jos Vander , Duyck Joke , Jaecques Siegfried V.N.
Published: May 2009

Purpose: The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the biomechanical environment of immediately placed implants, before and after osseointegration, by comparing three different implant‐abutment connection types.

Materials and Methods: A computer tomography‐based finite element model of an upper central incisor extraction socket was constructed containing implants with either external hex, internal hex, or Morse‐taper connection. Frictional contact elements were used in the bone, implant, abutment, and abutment screw interfaces in the immediately placed simulations. In osseointegrated simulations, the repair of bone alveolar defect and a glued bone‐to‐implant interface were assumed. By analysis of variance, the influence was assessed of connection type, clinical situation, and loading magnitude on the peak equivalent strain in the bone, peak von Mises stress in the abutment screw, bone‐to‐implant relative displacement, and abutment gap.

Results: The loading magnitudes had a significant contribution, regardless of the assessed variable. However, the critical clinical situation of an immediately placed implant itself was the main factor affecting the peak equivalent strain in the bone and bone‐to‐implant displacement. The largest influence of the connection type in this protocol was seen on the peak equivalent stress in the abutment screw. On the other hand, a higher influence of the various connection types on bone stress/strain could be noted in osseointegrated simulations.

Conclusions: The implant‐abutment connection design did not significantly influence the biomechanical environment of immediately placed implants. Avoiding implant overloading and ensuring a sufficient initial intraosseous stability are the most relevant parameters for the promotion of a safe biomechanical environment in this protocol.
Modular Preoperative Planning Software for Computer‐Aided Oral Implantology and the Application of a Novel Stereolithographic Template: A Pilot Study
Authors: Chen Xiaojun , Yuan Jianbing , Wang Chengtao , Huang Yuanliang , Kang Lu
Published: May 2009

Purpose: In the field of oral implantology, there is a trend toward computer‐aided implant surgery, especially the application of computerized tomography (CT)‐derived surgical templates. However, because of relatively unsatisfactory match between the templates and receptor sites, conventional surgical templates may not be accurate enough for the severely resorbed edentulous cases during the procedure of transferring the preoperative plan to the actual surgery. The purpose of this study is to introduce a novel bone–tooth‐combined‐supported surgical guide, which is designed by utilizing a special modular software and fabricated via stereolithography technique using both laser scanning and CT imaging, thus improving the fit accuracy and reliability.

Materials and Methods: A modular preoperative planning software was developed for computer‐aided oral implantology. With the introduction of dynamic link libraries and some well‐known free, open‐source software libraries such as Visualization Toolkit (Kitware, Inc., New York, USA) and Insight Toolkit (Kitware, Inc.) a plug‐in evolutive software architecture was established, allowing for expandability, accessibility, and maintainability in our system. To provide a link between the preoperative plan and the actual surgery, a novel bone–tooth‐combined‐supported surgical template was fabricated, utilizing laser scanning, image registration, and rapid prototyping. Clinical studies were conducted on four partially edentulous cases to make a comparison with the conventional bone‐supported templates.

Results: The fixation was more stable than tooth‐supported templates because laser scanning technology obtained detailed dentition information, which brought about the unique topography between the match surface of the templates and the adjacent teeth. The average distance deviations at the coronal and apical point of the implant were 0.66 mm (range: 0.3–1.2) and 0.86 mm (range: 0.4–1.2), and the average angle deviation was 1.84° (range: 0.6–2.8°).

Conclusions: This pilot study proves that the novel combined‐supported templates are superior to the conventional ones. However, more clinical cases will be conducted to demonstrate their feasibility and reliability.
Influence of the Connector and Implant Design on the Implant–Tooth‐Connected Prostheses
Authors: Da Silva Edmar Ferreira , Pellizzer Eduardo Piza , Quinelli Mazaro José Vitor , Garcia Júnior Idelmo Rangel
Published: May 2009

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate stress transfer patterns between implant–tooth‐connected prostheses comparing rigid and semirigid connectors and internal and external hexagon implants.

Materials and Methods: Two models were made of photoelastic resin PL‐2, with an internal hexagon implant of 4.00 × 13 mm and another with an external hexagon implant of 4.00 × 13 mm. Three denture designs were fabricated for each implant model, incorporating one type of connection in each one to connect implants and teeth: 1) welded rigid connection; 2) semirigid connection; and 3) rigid connection with occlusal screw. The models were placed in the polariscope, and 100‐N axial forces were applied on fixed points on the occlusal surface of the dentures.

Results: There was a trend toward less intensity in the stresses on the semirigid connection and solid rigid connection in the model with the external hexagon; among the three types of connections in the model with the internal hexagon implant, the semirigid connection was the most unfavorable one; in the tooth–implant association, it is preferable to use the external hexagon implant.

Conclusions: The internal hexagon implant establishes a greater depth of hexagon retention and an increase in the level of denture stability in comparison with the implant with the external hexagon. However, this greater stability of the internal hexagon generated greater stresses in the abutment structures. Therefore, when this association is necessary, it is preferable to use the external hexagon implant.
Long‐Term Follow‐Up on Soft and Hard Tissue Levels Following Guided Bone Regeneration Treatment in Combination with a Xenogeneic Filling Material: A 5‐Year Prospective Clinical Study
Authors: Dahlin C. , Simion M. , Hatano N.
Published: May 2009

Purpose: In the present prospective study, bone augmentation by guided bone regeneration (GBR) in combination with bovine hydroxyapatite (BHA) as filling material was evaluated with regard to soft and hard tissue stability over time.

Materials and Methods: Implant survival, radiologic bone level (marginal bone level [MBL]), and clinical soft tissue parameters (marginal soft tissue level [MSTL]) were observed. Twenty patients received a total of 41 implants (Brånemark System, Nobel Biocare, Göteborg, Sweden) in conjunction with GBR treatment. The end point of the study was after 5 years following implant placement.

Results: The cumulative implant survival rate was 97.5% corresponding to one implant failure. The radiologic evaluation of the MBL demonstrated a crestal bone height above the level of the fixture head. The bone height decreased from −3.51 to −2.38 mm (p < .001). The MSTL was −1.52 mm at baseline and −1.15 mm at the 5‐year follow‐up (p < .04) demonstrating a stable submucosal crown margin throughout the study period.

Conclusion: GBR treatment in combination with a xenogeneic filling material (BHA) is a viable treatment option in order to maintain stable hard and soft tissue levels in conjunction with augmentative procedure related to oral implant treatment.
Three Tumor Patients with Total Maxillectomy Rehabilitated with Implant‐Supported Frameworks and Maxillary Obturators: A Follow‐Up Report
Authors: Örtorp Anders
Published: May 2009

Background: Few reports are available on treatment using implant‐supported frameworks with maxillary obturators after total maxillectomy on tumor patients.

Purpose: To describe, evaluate, and report the clinical and radiographic performance of implant‐supported frameworks and maxillary obturators after maxillectomy during the first years of function.

Materials and Methods: Three patients with cancer in the maxillary region treated by total maxillectomy were rehabilitated. Seventeen dental and two craniofacial implants were installed, and the patients each received implant‐supported, screw‐retained, three‐unit frameworks with a U‐shaped bar and obturators retained by four magnetic attachments. Clinical and radiographic data were collected up to 7 years of follow‐up.

Results: The frequency of complications was low. Two craniofacial implants and one dental implant were loose and removed at abutment connection. No implants were lost after framework connection, and the mean marginal bone loss was small.

Conclusion: Within the limitations of this report, dental implants are useful for rehabilitation of total maxillectomy patients, and a three‐unit, screw‐retained, implant‐supported framework with maxillary obturator retained by magnetic attachment is a successful treatment concept for this patient group.
Bacterial Persistence in Dentoalveolar Bone Following Extraction: A Microbiological Study and Implications for Dental Implant Treatment
Authors: Nelson Stephen , Thomas Graham
Published: May 2009

Background: The microbiological status of apparently healed alveolar bone implant sites is unknown. Implant success may be compromised by site‐specific persistence of bacterial biofilm co‐aggregations contaminating healed alveolar bone.

Purpose: The purpose of the present study was to investigate whether extraradicular infection can persist in apparently healed alveolar bone and to develop a surgical debridement strategy that favors implant osseointegration.

Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 32 private practice patients. Seventy‐seven microbiological samples were taken from 16 pre‐implant extraction sockets, 56 healed post‐extraction osteotomies at fixture placement, and five failed fixtures. Two of the healed osteotomy samples were healed retreatment sites. Tissue fluid and bone samples were analyzed by either anaerobic/aerobic culturing or DNA molecular techniques. All patients were treated ad modum Brånemark, with a two‐stage sterile surgical procedure.

A search of the medical and dental literature revealed no evidence‐based or best practice recommendations for the use of debridement in implant therapy. Thus, we developed a new technique for the debridement of alveolar bone found to be contaminated by persistent biofilm or planktonic bacteria.

Results: The results of the microbiological analysis of 77 bone and effusion samples from 47 implant sites of the 32 patients showed that overall, 32% (n = 25) had bacteria present in the sample. In 16 pre‐implant extraction sockets, 69% of samples were positive for the presence of bacteria (n = 11). Of 56 osteotomies with a minimum 3‐month healing at fixture placement, 21% revealed a positive culture (n = 12). Two‐stage failed fixtures had 100% positive cultures (n = 5) and it was evident from radiographs that all of these failed fixtures had the apical ends close to the former tooth root end.

Based on these findings, we have developed a microbiologically based surgical debridement strategy to successfully re‐treat early infective failures and to place successful two‐stage fixtures.

Conclusion: Bacteria can persist as a contaminant in apparently healed alveolar bone following extraction of teeth with apical or radicular pathosis. A new technique for surgical debridement to reduce and limit this bacterial contamination has been described.
THE RELATIONS OF DAILY COUNTERPRODUCTIVE WORKPLACE BEHAVIOR WITH EMOTIONS, SITUATIONAL ANTECEDENTS, AND PERSONALITY MODERATORS: A DIARY STUDY IN HONG KONG
Authors: YANG JIXIA , DIEFENDORFF JAMES M.
Published: May 2009

In this diary study conducted in Hong Kong, we examined a theoretical model in which negative emotions serve as an explanatory mechanism through which daily stressors impact daily counterproductive work behavior (CWB). We further theorized that personality variables (negative affectivity, Conscientiousness, and Agreeableness) would exert cross‐level effects on the within‐person relationships. Hierarchical linear modeling results based on a sample of 231 individuals and 5,583 observations across 25 days provide partial support for the mediating role of negative emotions in the within‐person stressor–CWB relationships. Specifically, we found that negative emotions (a) partially mediated the within‐person relation of perceived ambiguity with CWB directed at the organization, (b) fully mediated the relation of supervisor interpersonal injustice with CWB directed at individuals, and (c) fully mediated the relation of customer interpersonal injustice with CWB directed at the organization. High levels of trait negative affectivity were found to strengthen the within‐person relation between daily supervisor interpersonal injustice and daily negative emotions. As expected, high levels of trait Conscientiousness and Agreeableness were found to weaken the within‐person relations of daily negative emotions with daily CWB directed at the organization and individuals.
EMPLOYEES' CHALLENGING JOB EXPERIENCES AND SUPERVISORS' EVALUATIONS OF PROMOTABILITY
Authors: DE PATER IRENE E. , VAN VIANEN ANNELIES E. M. , BECHTOLDT MYRIAM N. , KLEHE UTE‐CHRISTINE
Published: May 2009

Promotability evaluations are important for individuals' career development and organizations' human resource management practices. Nevertheless, little empirical research has addressed predictors of promotability evaluations, and the studies that have, have often focused on current job performance and fixed, nonbehavioral predictors. This study takes a more behavioral approach, and investigates whether besides how one performs (i.e., job performance) what one performs also serves as an indicator of promotability. Specifically, we examine the relationship between employees' challenging job experiences and supervisors' evaluations of employees' promotability over and above employees' current job performance. Results from 3 field studies, sampling different types of employees via different measures, consistently showed that challenging job experiences explained incremental variance in supervisory and organizational evaluations of promotability over and above current job performance and job tenure.
A SURVEY OF EXECUTIVE COACHING PRACTICES
Authors: BONO JOYCE E. , PURVANOVA RADOSTINA K. , TOWLER ANNETTE J. , PETERSON DAVID B.
Published: May 2009

Despite the ubiquity of executive coaching interventions in business organizations, there is little uniformity in the practices (e.g., assessment tools, scientific or philosophical approaches, activities, goals, and outcome evaluation methods) of executive coaches. Addressing the ongoing debate about the role of psychology in executive coaching, we compare the practices of psychologist and nonpsychologist coaches, as well as the practices of coaches from various psychological disciplines (e.g., counseling, clinical, and industrial/organizational). Results of surveys completed by 428 coaches (256 nonpsychologists, 172 psychologists) revealed as many differences between psychologists of differing disciplines as were found between psychologist and nonpsychologist coaches. Moreover, differences between psychologists and nonpsychologists were generally small (average d= .26). Our survey also revealed some differences in the key competencies identified by psychologist and nonpsychologist coaches.
USING WEB‐BASED FRAME‐OF‐REFERENCE TRAINING TO DECREASE BIASES IN PERSONALITY‐BASED JOB ANALYSIS: AN EXPERIMENTAL FIELD STUDY
Authors: AGUINIS HERMAN , MAZURKIEWICZ MARK D. , HEGGESTAD ERIC D.
Published: May 2009

We identify sources of biases in personality‐based job analysis (PBJA) ratings and offer a Web‐based frame‐of‐reference (FOR) training program to mitigate these biases. Given the use of job analysis data for the development of staffing, performance management, and many other human resource management systems, using biased PBJA ratings is likely to lead to a workforce that is increasingly homogenous in terms of personality but not necessarily a workforce with improved levels of performance. We conducted a field experiment (i.e., full random assignment) using 2 independent samples of employees in a city government and found evidence in support of the presence of biases as well as the effectiveness of the proposed solution. Specifically, FOR training was successful at decreasing the average correlation between job incumbents' self‐reported personality and PBJA ratings from .27 to .07 (administrative support assistants) and from .30 to .09 (supervisors). Also, FOR training was successful at decreasing mean PBJA ratings by d= .44 (administrative support assistants) and by d= .68 (supervisors). We offer the entire set of Web‐based FOR training materials for use in future research and applications.
Interaction of Follicle‐Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Receptor Binding Inhibitor‐8: A Novel FSH‐Binding Inhibitor, with FSH and its Receptor
Authors: Chitnis Swati S. , Selvaakumar Chellasamy , Jagtap Dhanashree D. , Barnwal Ravi P. , Chary Kandala V. R. , Mahale Smita D. , Nandedkar Tarala D.
Published: May 2009

Follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) receptor binding inhibitor (FRBI‐8) is a novel octapeptide purified from human ovarian follicular fluid. In vitro, it inhibits the binding of FSH to granulosa cells and in vivo, it induces atresia in developing follicles in rodents. This peptide, when administered to marmosets and bonnet monkeys, altered the circulating progesterone levels. This study was carried out to elucidate structure of the FRBI‐8 and understand its mechanism of inhibiting interaction of FSH to its receptors. Homology modeling predicted that the FRBI‐8 adopts a turn and random coil. This is further confirmed by circular dichroism and NMR. Docking studies of the FRBI‐8 with reported FSH–FSHR hormone binding (FSHRHB) domain complex using zdock algorithm revealed that the FRBI‐8 binds to FSHβL2–FSHRHB binding interface which is otherwise known to be crucial for activation of signal transduction cascade. FRBI‐8 analogs were designed by replacing the acidic amino acid residues at positions 2, 5 and 6 with Ala, individually. Docking studies revealed that D6A mutant (FRBI‐8D6A) had a higher binding affinity than the native FRBI‐8. In vitro radioreceptor assay with FRBI‐8D6A showed 50% lower IC50 compared with the FRBI‐8, confirming the in silico observations. Thus, the study reveals that both FRBI‐8 and FRBI‐8D6A interfered with the binding of FSH to its receptor.
Synthesis and Immunomodulation of Human Lymphocyte Proliferation and Cytokine (Interferon‐γ) Production of Four Novel Malonitrilamides
Authors: Hadizadeh Farzin , Moallem Seyed Adel , Jaafari Mahmoud Reza , Shahab Mahdi , Alahyari Maryam , Rameshrad Maryam , Samiei Afshin
Published: May 2009

Leflunomide is an immunomodulator drug with applications in the management of arthritis rheumatoid. In this study, four novel analogs (4a–d) of A771726, the active metabolite of leflunomide were synthesized and examinedin vitrofor their immunomodulation activity by examining human lymphocyte proliferation and determination of the cytokine interferon‐γ concentrations in human lymphocyte cell culture. For this purpose, 5 × 104human lymphocyte cells were incubated at 37 °C in 5% CO2with phytohemagglutinin and one of the analogs (concentrations 1–100 mm), negative controls or cyclosporine (0.1 mm). Effects of the compounds on lymphocyte proliferation and interferon‐γ production were determined by MTT assay and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. Our results showed that all four compounds dose‐dependently suppressed lymphocyte proliferation. Moreover, these compounds at some concentrations reduced interferon‐γ production which is an indicator of the immune response. Generally, the most potent analog was4bwith an amide linkage (X=NH) and the weakest analog was4awith an ester linkage (X=O). Compound4ahas little similarity with the leflunomide active metabolite which has an amide linkage. In this study, four novel compounds were synthesized that showed considerable immunosuppressive effects that deserve further investigations.
Synthesis, Herbicidal Activities and Comparative Molecular Field Analysis Study of Some Novel Triazolinone Derivatives
Authors: Wang Lei , Ma Yi , Liu Xing‐Hai , Li Yong‐Hong , Song Hai‐Bin , Li Zheng‐Ming
Published: May 2009

A series of novel triazolinones were synthesized and their structures were characterized by 1H NMR, elemental analysis and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. The herbicidal activities were evaluated against Echinochloa crusgalli (L.) Beauv., Digitaria adscendens, Brassica napus and Amaranthus retroflexus. The herbicidal activity data indicated that the title compounds had higher activities with substituted benzyl group moieties than with other groups such as sulfonyl, alkyl, etc. To further investigate the structure–activity relationship, comparative molecular field analysis was performed on the basis of herbicidal activity data. Both the steric and electronic field distributions of comparative molecular field analysis are in good agreement in this work. The results showed that a bulky and electronegative group around the ortho‐ or para‐positions of the benzene ring would possibly lead to higher activity. Based on the comparative molecular field analysis, compound I‐23 was designed and synthesized, which display as good herbicidal activities as the commercial herbicide, carfentrazone‐ethyl. The activity against Digitaria adscendens is 66.1% under pre‐emergence at 300 g of a.i./ha.
Novel Pleuromutilin Derivatives with Excellent Antibacterial Activity Against Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Xu Peng , Zhang Yuan‐Yuan , Sun Yong‐Xue , Liu Jian‐Hua , Yang Bing , Wang Yu‐Zhong , Wang Yu‐Liang
Published: May 2009

Ten novel pleuromutilin derivatives with thioether moiety and heterocyclic carboxamide or chloroformate group in the side chain were synthesized and confirmed by 1H NMR, IR and HRMS. The results of the antibacterial activity showed that the title compounds had excellent antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, among which the MIC of 5f reached 0.03125 μg/mL.
Towards Understanding the Free and Receptor Bound Conformation of Neuropeptide Y by Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer Studies
Authors: Haack Michael , Beck‐Sickinger Annette G.
Published: May 2009

Despite a considerable sequence identity of the three mammalian hormones of the neuropeptide Y family, namely neuropeptide Y, peptide YY and pancreatic polypeptide, their structure in solution is described to be different. A so‐called pancreatic polypeptide‐fold has been identified for pancreatic polypeptide, whereas the structure of the N‐terminal segment of neuropeptide Y is unknown. This element is important for the binding of neuropeptide Y to two of its relevant receptors, Y1 and Y5, but not to the Y2 receptor subtype. In this study now, three doubly fluorescent‐labeled analogs of neuropeptide Y have been synthesized that still bind to the Y5 receptor with high affinity to investigate the conformation in solution and, for the first time, to probe the conformational changes upon binding of the ligand to its receptor in cell membrane preparations. The results obtained from the fluorescence resonance energy transfer investigations clearly show considerable differences in transfer efficiency that depend both on the solvent as well as on the peptide concentration. However, the studies do not support a pancreatic polypeptide‐like folding of neuropeptide Y in the presence of membranes that express the human Y5 receptor subtype.
Prospects and Challenges of Geographical Indications in India
Authors: Das Kasturi
Published: May 2009

In the recent past, geographical indications (GIs) have emerged as a significant intellectual property rights issue in the Indian context. Since 15 September 2003, when the Indian GI Act came into force, more than a hundred Indian products have been registered as GIs. However, there are several practical challenges confronting the stakeholders in India when it comes to the realization of the potential benefits ingrained in GIs. Apart from effective enforcement of the rights in the relevant markets (domestic and export), the success of a GI is contingent, in a large measure, upon appropriate marketing and promotion of the product—tasks that are not only resource‐intensive but also challenging to execute for many stakeholders from a developing country like India. It is all the more tricky to ensure that a fair share of the benefits accruing from the GI status of a product reaches the actual producers/artisans downstream in the supply chain, unless an appropriate institutional mechanism is set in place towards that end. Against this backdrop, the article attempts to explore the prospects for India in exploiting the potential benefits embedded in GIs and the key challenges confronting the country in its endeavour to realize such benefits.
Understanding Kripke's Puzzles about Belief
Authors: McGlone Michael
Published: May 2009

In his famous 1979 article ‘A Puzzle About Belief’ Saul Kripke presents two puzzles regarding belief attribution, and he uses them to cast doubt on classical substitution arguments against the Millian view that a proper name has a ‘denotation’ (or reference) but no ‘connotation’ (or sense). In this article, I present Kripke's puzzles in what I take to be their most revealing form, discuss their relevance to the abovementioned arguments, briefly survey the ways in which philosophers have responded to these puzzles, and call attention to some issues related to the puzzles that have yet to receive the consideration they deserve.
Effect of Chelating Agents and Spice‐Derived Antioxidants on Myoglobin Oxidation in a Lipid‐Free Model System
Authors: Allen Karin , Cornforth Daren
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT:  This study compared myoglobin (Mb) oxidation in lipid‐free model systems containing iron and Type I (radical quenching) or Type II (metal chelating) antioxidants. Oxidation was measured as loss of oxymyoglobin (MbO2) during 0 to 24 h holding at 22 °C. Sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP) demonstrated iron‐binding ability at all concentrations tested (88% and 21% added iron bound at 1 and 0.05 mg/mL, respectively). Iron chelation was observed for phytic acid only at the highest concentration (9.5% bound at 1 mg/mL phytate). Neither Type I antioxidant (rosmarinate or eugenol) demonstrated any iron chelating ability (<0.5% bound). In presence of iron, Type I antioxidants had a significant (P < 0.05) prooxidant effect (54.7% retention of MbO2 in control, 9.5% and 37.5% retention in rosmarinate and eugenol samples, respectively). The Type II antioxidants (STPP and phytate) were more effective inhibitors (P < 0.05) of Mb oxidation than Type I antioxidants, (68.7% and 61.1% for STPP and phytate, respectively). Type I antioxidants were capable of rapid reduction of ferric iron to the ferrous form, as measured by the ferrozine assay. This strong reducing ability accounted for the prooxidant effects of rosmarinic acid and eugenol, since ferrous iron is the form associated with generation of oxygen radicals, and subsequent Mb oxidation. Type II antioxidants chelated and thus prevented the oxidizing effect of added ferrous iron. Mb oxidation can proceed rapidly (within 15 min) in the presence of iron and the absence of lipid, especially if reducing compounds such as rosmarinic acid or eugenol are also present to maintain iron in an active ferrous form.
Effects of Riboflavin Photosensitization on the Degradation of Bisphenol A (BPA) in Model and Real‐Food Systems
Authors: Ha Dong‐Oh , Jeong Min Kyu , Park Chan Uk , Park Min Hee , Chang Pahn‐Shick , Lee Jae Hwan
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT:  Effects of riboflavin photosensitizations on the stability of bisphenol A (BPA), a well‐known endocrine disrupting chemical, were studied in model and real‐food systems by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Concentration of BPA was significantly decreased under light exposure (P < 0.05) as the concentration of riboflavin increased while those without riboflavin under light or those with riboflavin in the dark did not change significantly (P > 0.05). Addition of 50, 100, and 200 μM sodium azide significantly increased the stability of BPA in riboflavin photosensitization with concentration dependent manner (P < 0.05), implying that a singlet oxygen or type II pathway played a role in the photodegradation of BPA. Stability of BPA in riboflavin was significantly increased in the presence of high concentration of tert‐butanol, a hydroxyl radical quencher, under light storage for 80 min, indicating hydroxyl radicals were involved and contributed to the degradation of BPA, at least in part. Availability of riboflavin photosensitization on the photodegradation of BPA was tested in 2 canned tea beverages with different phenolic contents. BPA was more stable in the beverage sample with higher total phenolic contents and free radical scavenging ability. The photodegradation of BPA in riboflavin photosensitization can be an efficient way to decrease the concentration of BPA from environmental or food systems.
Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy for Kona Coffee Authentication
Authors: Wang Jun , Jun Soojin , Bittenbender H.C. , Gautz Loren , Li Qing X.
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT:  Kona coffee, the variety of “Kona typica” grown in the north and south districts of Kona‐Island, carries a unique stamp of the region of Big Island of Hawaii, U.S.A. The excellent quality of Kona coffee makes it among the best coffee products in the world. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy integrated with an attenuated total reflectance (ATR) accessory and multivariate analysis was used for qualitative and quantitative analysis of ground and brewed Kona coffee and blends made with Kona coffee. The calibration set of Kona coffee consisted of 10 different blends of Kona‐grown original coffee mixture from 14 different farms in Hawaii and a non‐Kona‐grown original coffee mixture from 3 different sampling sites in Hawaii. Derivative transformations (1st and 2nd), mathematical enhancements such as mean centering and variance scaling, multivariate regressions by partial least square (PLS), and principal components regression (PCR) were implemented to develop and enhance the calibration model. The calibration model was successfully validated using 9 synthetic blend sets of 100% Kona coffee mixture and its adulterant, 100% non‐Kona coffee mixture. There were distinct peak variations of ground and brewed coffee blends in the spectral “fingerprint” region between 800 and 1900 cm−1. The PLS‐2nd derivative calibration model based on brewed Kona coffee with mean centering data processing showed the highest degree of accuracy with the lowest standard error of calibration value of 0.81 and the highest R2 value of 0.999. The model was further validated by quantitative analysis of commercial Kona coffee blends. Results demonstrate that FTIR can be a rapid alternative to authenticate Kona coffee, which only needs very quick and simple sample preparations.
Declining In‐Hospital Mortality and Increasing Heart Failure Incidence in Elderly Patients With First Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Harris Scott , Tepper David , Ip Randy
Published: May 2009

Abstract.  Objectives.  The purpose of this study was to examine the long‐term incidence of heart failure (HF) in elderly patients with myocardial infarction (MI).

 Background.  In‐hospital HF is common after MI and is associated with poor short‐term prognosis. Limited data exist concerning the long‐term incidence or prognosis of HF after MI, particularly in the era of coronary revascularization.

 Methods.  A population‐based cohort of 7733 patients 65 years and older hospitalized for a first MI (International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision Clinical Modification code 410.x) and without a prior history of HF was established between 1994 and 2000 in Alberta, Canada, and followed up for 5 years.

 Results.  During the index MI hospitalization, 2831 (37%) MI patients were diagnosed with new HF and 1024 (13%) died. Among hospital survivors who did not have HF during their index hospitalization (n=4291), an additional 3040 patients (71%) developed HF by 5 years, 64% of which occurred in the first year. In total, 5871 (76%) elderly patients who survived their first MI developed HF over 5 years. Among those who survived the index hospitalization, the 5‐year mortality rate was 39.1% for those with HF during the index MI hospitalization compared with 26.7% among those without HF (P<.0001) during the index MI hospitalization. Over the study period, the 5‐year mortality rate after MI decreased by 28%, whereas the 5‐year rate of HF increased by 25%.

 Conclusions.  In this large cohort of elderly patients without a history of HF, HF developed in three‐quarters in the 5 years after their first MI; this proportion increased over time as peri‐MI mortality rates declined. New‐onset HF significantly increases the mortality risk among these patients.—Ezekowitz JA, Kaul P, Bakal JA, et al. Declining in‐hospital mortality and increasing heart failure incidence in elderly patients with first myocardial infarction.J Am Coll Cardiol. 2009;53(1):21–23.
Combination Therapy With Various Combinations of Aliskiren, Valsartan, and Hydrochlorothiazide in Hypertensive Patients Not Adequately Responsive to Hydrochlorothiazide Alone
Authors: Geiger Helmut , Barranco Elizabeth , Gorostidi Manuel , Taylor Addison , Zhang Xiaoli , Xiang Zhihua , Zhang Jack
Published: May 2009

This study investigated the efficacy and safety of several different multi‐drug regimens including aliskiren, valsartan, and hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) in patients not adequately responsive to HCTZ as monotherapy. After 4 weeks of HCTZ treatment, patients (N=641) whose diastolic blood pressure (DBP) was ≥95 mm Hg were treated for 8 weeks with either aliskiren/valsartan/HCTZ, aliskiren/HCTZ, valsartan/HCTZ, or HCTZ alone. The primary efficacy variable was change in DBP from baseline to week 8 end point. The aliskiren/valsartan/HCTZ combination produced statistically significant additional reductions in systolic blood pressure (SBP)/DBP when compared with other groups. At week 8 end point, reductions in SBP/DBP in the respective treatment groups were 22/16, 15/11, 18/14, or 6/6 mm Hg. Aliskiren/valsartan/HCTZ produced significantly better blood pressure control (SBP/DBP <140/90 mm Hg; 66.7%) compared with other treatment groups (20.5%–48.7%). The safety profile of aliskiren/valsartan/HCTZ was similar to the 2‐drug combinations, with a greater blood pressure–lowering effect in patients who had not responded to HCTZ monotherapy.
The Nature of Contemporary Prejudice: Insights from Aversive Racism
Authors: Pearson Adam R. , Dovidio John F. , Gaertner Samuel L.
Published: May 2009

Within the United States, declines in the overt expression of racial prejudice over several decades have given way to near universal endorsement of the principles of racial equality as a core cultural value. Yet, evidence of persistent and substantial disparities between Blacks and Whites remain. Here, we review research that demonstrates how the actions of even well‐intentioned and ostensibly non‐prejudiced individuals can inadvertently contribute to these disparities through subtle biases in decision making and social interactions. We argue that current racial attitudes of Whites toward Blacks in the United States are fundamentally ambivalent, characterized by a widespread contemporary form of racial prejudice, aversive racism, that is manifested in subtle and indirect ways, and illustrate its operation across a wide range of settings, from employment and legal decisions, to group problem‐solving and everyday helping behavior. We conclude by describing research aimed at combating these biases and identify new avenues for future research.
Habermas and Social Movement Theory
Authors: Edwards Gemma
Published: May 2009

This article outlines Habermas’ social movement–related ideas and reviews the critical reception of them from within critical theory and social movement studies more widely. Criticism of Habermas’ explanation of the new social movements has been wide‐ranging and persuasive. There have however been some contemporary critical engagements with Habermas’ ideas within social movement studies. The direction they take suggests (1) the concept of ‘colonisation’ finds political relevance in the twenty‐first century context of global capitalism and resistance to neo‐liberal policies; (2) that recent engagements with Habermas loosely unite in a concern with the ‘applied turn’ in critical theory; and (3) there is some potential for aspects of Habermas’ theory to be used in ways that make him capable of engaging in dialogue with the current concerns of social movement theory.
Contributions of the National Incident‐Based Reporting System to Substantive Knowledge in Criminology: A Review of Research
Authors: Roberts Aki
Published: May 2009

The National Incident‐Based Reporting System (NIBRS) data have been available to the research community for about a decade. The advantages of NIBRS over other official statistics such as summary Uniform Crime Reports, Supplementary Homicide Reports, and the National Crime Victimization Survey have contributed to better evaluation of a number of theoretical perspectives in criminology and criminal justice, and have helped in suggesting possible policy implications. This paper reviews studies using the NIBRS data in the areas of crime clearance, crime rates disaggregated by situational context (including domestic violence, race‐specific crime, and gun crime), and lethal and non‐lethal outcomes of violent encounters. The paper also discusses limitations of the NIBRS data and cautions for its use, along with future research possibilities.
Gender and Employment: A Global Lens on Feminist Analyses and Theorizing of Labor Markets
Authors: Gottfried Heidi
Published: May 2009

This review of feminist analyses and theorizing of labor markets uses a global lens to reveal the forces shaping gender inequality. The review focuses on the increasing dominance of services primarily in the liberal market economies of the United States and the United Kingdom along with examples from Asia where restructuring has shifted locations of work and affected new ways of working by a diverse and mobile workforce. Labor market restructuring through commodification of care, outsourcing of household tasks and informalization of employment affects the complexity of relationships between and the interconnectedness of social inequalities transnationally and in global cities. Place matters when analyzing how service employment alters divisions of labor and how these labor market changes are gendered. Global restructuring not only poses new challenges but also creates new opportunities for mobilization around a more robust notion of equality.
The glycine transport inhibitor sarcosine is an NMDA receptor co‐agonist that differs from glycine
Authors: Zhang Hai Xia , Hyrc Krzysztof , Thio Liu Lin
Published: May 2009

Sarcosine is an amino acid involved in one‐carbon metabolism and a promising therapy for schizophrenia because it enhances NMDA receptor (NMDAR) function by inhibiting glycine uptake. The structural similarity between sarcosine and glycine led us to hypothesize that sarcosine is also an agonist like glycine. We examined this possibility using whole‐cell recordings from cultured embryonic mouse hippocampal neurons. We found that sarcosine is an NMDAR co‐agonist at the glycine binding site. However, sarcosine differed from glycine because less NMDAR desensitization occurred with sarcosine than with glycine as the co‐agonist. This finding led us to examine whether the physiological effects of NMDAR activation with these two co‐agonists are the same. The difference in desensitization probably accounts for rises in intracellular Ca2+, as assessed by the fluorescent indicator fura‐FF, being larger when NMDAR activation occurred with sarcosine than with glycine. In addition, Ca2+‐activated K+currents following NMDAR activation were larger with sarcosine than with glycine. Compared to glycine, NMDAR‐mediated autaptic currents decayed faster with sarcosine suggesting that NMDAR deactivation also differs with these two co‐agonists. Despite these differences, NMDAR‐dependent neuronal death as assessed by propidium iodide was similar with both co‐agonists. The same was true for neuronal bursting. Thus, sarcosine may enhance NMDAR function by more than one mechanism and may have different effects from other NMDAR co‐agonists.