bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of two bone substitute biomaterials consisting of a mixture of fibrin sealant (Tisseel®) and MBCP™ (TricOs®) with an autograft in sinus lift surgery in sheep
Authors: Saffarzadeh Afchine , Gauthier Olivier , Bilban Melitta , Bagot D'Arc Maurice , Daculsi Guy
Published: August 2009

Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of macroporous biphasic calcium phosphate (MBCP™)/fibrin grafts (TricOs®)/(Tisseel®) for sinus lift augmentation in sheep. Autologous bone grafts were used as a positive control, and dental implants were placed to assess the efficiency of the composite.

Materials and methods: A total of 12 adult sheep (24 maxillary sinuses) were randomized to receive sinus lift augmentation with MBCP™/fibrin grafts obtained by either simultaneous or sequential addition of thrombin and fibrinogen to MBCP™, or autologous bone grafts. Six months post‐sinus lift surgery, dental implants were placed. At 6 months post‐sinus lift and 3 months after dental implant placement, the characteristics of newly formed bone and dental implant stability were assessed. The methods used were radiography, scanning electron microscopy, light microscopy, micro‐CT analysis, radio frequency analysis (RFA), and image analysis.

Results: There were no clinical adverse events in the post‐operative period. New bone formation was similar for MBCP™/fibrin grafts and autografts at 21–20% and 20%, respectively, at 6 months, and at 34–35% and 35%, respectively, at 9 months. Implantability of dental implants was better at the time of placement with MBCP™/fibrin grafts than autografts at 81–88% and 69%, respectively. Three months after placement, RFA showed better implantability with MBCP™/fibrin grafts than with autografts at 75–82% and 71%, respectively. The bone contact measurements were around 50% for the three groups, without significant differences.

Conclusions: This study shows that following sinus lift augmentation in sheep, MBCP™/fibrin grafts support new bone formation that is comparable to autografts, while providing better support for the dental implants.
Interproximal tissue dimensions in relation to adjacent implants in the anterior maxilla: clinical observations and patient aesthetic evaluation
Authors: Kourkouta Styliani , Dedi Konstantina Dina , Paquette David W. , Mol André
Published: August 2009

Objectives: This clinical study aimed to assess (i) interproximal tissue dimensions between adjacent implants in the anterior maxilla, (ii) factors that may influence interimplant papilla dimensions, and (iii) patient aesthetic satisfaction.

Material and methods: Fifteen adults, who had two or more adjacent implants (total of 35) in the anterior maxilla, participated in the study. The study design involved data collection from treatment records, clinical and radiographic assessment, and a questionnaire evaluating aesthetic satisfaction.

Results: The median vertical dimension of interimplant papillae, i.e., distance from tip of the papilla to the bone crest, was 4.2 mm. Missing papilla height (PH) at interimplant sites was on average 1.8 mm. Median proximal biologic width at interimplant sites was 7 mm. The most coronal bone‐to‐implant contact at implant–implant sites was located on average 4.6 mm apical to the bone crest at comparable neighbouring implant–tooth sites. The tip of the papilla between adjacent implants was placed on average 2 mm more apically compared with implant–tooth sites. The contact point between adjacent implant restorations extended more apically by 1 mm on average compared with implant–tooth sites. Median missing PH was 1 mm when an immediate provisionalization protocol had been followed, whereas in the case of a removable temporary it was 2 mm. Split group analysis showed that for missing PH≤1 mm, the median horizontal distance between implants at shoulder level was 3 mm. Patient satisfaction with the appearance of interimplant papillae was on average 87.5%, despite a Papilla Index of 2 in most cases.

Conclusions: The apico‐coronal proximal biologic width position and dimension appear to determine papilla tip location between adjacent implants. There was a significant association between the provisionalization protocol and missing PH, which was also influenced by the horizontal distance between implants. Patient aesthetic satisfaction was high, despite a less than optimal papilla fill.
Contralateral testicular relapse after prophylactic radiation in a patient with primary testicular diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Conrad Amber L. , Go Ronald S.
Published: August 2009

Prophylactic radiation to the contralateral uninvolved testicle has become a standard practice in the treatment of primary testicular lymphoma. While it is generally felt to be very effective, its failure rate is unknown. We describe a patient with primary testicular diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma, who developed recurrent disease in the contralateral testicle despite receiving prophylactic testicular radiation, central nervous system prophylaxis, and anthracycline‐based chemo‐immunotherapy. Review of the literature shows that the testicular failure rate after prophylactic radiation may be unexpectedly high at 10% or more. We put forward hypotheses on testicular relapse and discuss potential alternative preventive strategies.
Peroxisome Dynamics in Cultured Mammalian Cells
Authors: Huybrechts Sofie J. , Van Veldhoven Paul P. , Brees Chantal , Mannaerts Guy P. , Los Georgyi V. , Fransen Marc
Published: August 2009

Despite the identification and characterization of various proteins that are essential for peroxisome biogenesis, the origin and the turnover of peroxisomes are still unresolved critical issues. In this study, we used the HaloTag technology as a new approach to examine peroxisome dynamics in cultured mammalian cells. This technology is based on the formation of a covalent bond between the HaloTag protein–a mutated bacterial dehalogenase which is fused to the protein of interest–and a synthetic haloalkane ligand that contains a fluorophore or affinity tag. By using cell‐permeable ligands of distinct fluorescence, it is possible to image distinct pools of newly synthesized proteins, generated from a single genetic HaloTag‐containing construct, at different wavelengths. Here, we show that peroxisomes display an age‐related heterogeneity with respect to their capacity to incorporate newly synthesized proteins. We also demonstrate that these organelles do not exchange their protein content. In addition, we present evidence that the matrix protein content of pre‐existing peroxisomes is not evenly distributed over new organelles. Finally, we show that peroxisomes in cultured mammalian cells, under basal growth conditions, have a half‐life of approximately 2 days and are mainly degraded by an autophagy‐related mechanism. The implications of these findings are discussed.
Stonins—Specialized Adaptors for Synaptic Vesicle Recycling and Beyond?
Authors: Maritzen Tanja , Podufall Jasmin , Haucke Volker
Published: August 2009

Stonins are a small family of evolutionarily conserved clathrin adaptor complex AP‐2μ‐related factors that may act as cargo‐specific sorting adaptors in endocytosis and perhaps beyond. Whereas little is known about the localization and function of stonin 1, recent work suggests that stonin 2 serves as a linker between the endocytic proteins AP‐2 and Eps15 and the calcium‐sensing synaptic vesicle (SV) protein synaptotagmin 1. The molecular determinants involved in the recognition of SV cargo by the μ‐homology domain of stonin 2 are evolutionarily conserved from worm to man, thereby
identifying stonin 2 and its invertebrate homologs uncoordinated (UNC)‐41 and stoned B as endocytic adaptors dedicated to the retrieval of surface‐stranded SV proteins, most notably synaptotagmin. In this review, we summarize the current state of knowledge about mammalian stonins with a special focus on the role of stonin 2 in SV recycling at presynaptic nerve terminals.
Closure of Diastema and Gingival Recontouring Using Direct Adhesive Restorations: A Case Report
Authors: DE ARAUJO Jr. EDSON MEDEIROS , FORTKAMP SAULO , BARATIERI LUIZ NARCISO
Published: August 2009

One of the challenges in clinical esthetic dentistry is closing anterior diastemas without creating “black triangles” between the teeth. The success of a restorative treatment in anterior teeth depends on the esthetic integration between soft tissues and hard tissues. The conditioning of the interdental papilla is a simple, direct, predictable, and low‐cost alternative. This paper reports a case on diastema closure in anterior teeth that was successfully treated using gingival recontouring and composite resin restorations.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The closure of diastemas in anterior teeth using direct adhesive restorations and gingival recontouring is a viable option for the clinician because it restores esthetic harmony between soft and hard tissues.
Influence of NaHCO3 Powder on Translucency of Microfilled Composite Resin Immersed in Different Mouthrinses
Authors: COLUCCI VIVIAN , DOS SANTOS CAMILA DEMETRIO , AMARAL FLÁVIA LUCISANO BOTELHO DO , CORONA SILMARA APARECIDA MILORI , CATIRSE ALMA BLÁSIDA CONCEPCIÓN ELIZAUR BENITEZ
Published: August 2009

The regular use of mouthrinses, particularly when combined with the use of air‐powder polishing, could affect the appearance of tooth‐colored restorations. The current study sought to evaluate the effect of NaHCO3 powder on translucency of a microfilled composite resin immersed in different mouthrinses, at distinct evaluation periods. Eighty disk‐shaped specimens of composite resin (Durafill VS, Heraeus Kulzer GmbH & Co. KG, Hanau, Germany) were prepared. The composite specimens were then randomly allocated into two groups according to the surface treatment: exposure to NaHCO3 powder (10 seconds) or nonexposure, and they were randomly assigned into four subgroups, according to the mouthrinses employed (N = 10): Periogard (Colgate/Palmolive, São Bernardo do Campo, SP, Brazil), Cepacol (Aventis Pharma, São Paulo, SP, Brazil), Plax (Colgate/Palmolive), and distilled water (control group). The samples were immersed for 2 minutes daily, 5 days per week, over a 4‐month test period. Translucency was measured with a transmission densitometer at seven evaluation periods. Statistical analyses (analysis of variance and Tukey's test) revealed that: distilled water presented higher translucency values (86.72%); Periogard demonstrated the lowest translucency values (72.70%); and Plax (74.05%) and Cepacol (73.32%) showed intermediate translucency values, which were statistically similar between them (p > 0.01). NaHCO3 air‐powder polishing increased the changes in translucency associated with the mouthrinses. Air‐powder polishing alone had no effect on material translucency. Translucency percent was gradually decreased from 1 week of immersion up to 4 months. It may be concluded that the NaHCO3 powder and the tested mouthrinses have affected the translucency of microfilled composite resin, according to the tested time.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

During the last decade, the demand for composite resin restorations has grown considerably, however, controversy persists regarding the effect of surface roughness on color stability.
Hardness of Three Resin‐Modified Glass‐Ionomer Restorative Materials as a Function of Depth and Time
Authors: ROBERTS HOWARD W. , BERZINS DAVID W. , CHARLTON DAVID G.
Published: August 2009

Statement of the Problem:  The polymerization of bulk‐placed resin‐modified glass‐ionomer (RMGI) restoratives is compromised when penetration of the curing light is limited because of the materials' thickness. It is unknown if additional post light‐curing resin polymerization and/or glass‐ionomer setting occurs over time to ensure adequate polymerization.

Purpose:  The primary objective was to evaluate the depth of cure of various thicknesses of RMGI restorative products over 1 year using Knoop hardness (KH) testing.

Materials and Methods:  The materials were placed in Delrin molds having an internal diameter of 5.0 mm and heights of 2, 3, 4, and 5 mm and were photopolymerized with a halogen light‐curing unit. Five specimens of each depth were prepared for each time period evaluated. Specimens were stored in darkness at 37 ± 2°C and 98 ± 2% humidity until being tested at 24 hours, 1 week, and 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after fabrication. Mean KH values were calculated for the bottom and top surfaces of each thickness group and used to determine bottom/top hardness ratios. Data were compared using two‐way analysis of variance (factors of time, thickness) at a 0.05 significance level with Scheffé's post hoc analysis, where required.

Results:  The materials had relatively stable top surface KH, which permitted valid assessment of changes in bottom surface KH over time. The bottom surface KH of some RMGIs changed significantly over time (p < 0.001), but degrees of change were material dependent. Certain RMGIs demonstrated a potential for statistically significant post light‐activation hardening; however, that too was material dependent. As compared with top surface KH, deeper layers of the thicker RMGI specimens consistently failed to achieve an adequate degree of polymerization.

Conclusion:  Although certain RMGI materials demonstrate a potential for post light‐activation chemically initiated resin polymerization and/or polyalkenoate acid/base reaction, these reactions may not be sufficient to ensure that the material is adequately polymerized for long‐term success. This is particularly true when RMGI materials are placed in thicker layers where curing light penetration may be compromised.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

RMGI materials should not be placed in bulk but photopolymerized in layers to ensure adequate light activation. The results of this study suggest that Photac‐Fil Quick be placed in layers no thicker than 2 mm while Fuji II LC and Vitremer may be placed in layers up to 3 mm in thickness.
Display of a peer's face picture enhances the preference for a pen in preference testing in cows
Authors: NINOMIYA Shigeru , SATO Shusuke
Published: August 2009

Using preference testing, we investigated the effect of a brush and a peer's face picture on the welfare of breeding beef cows. Four cows were used in experiment 1 and another four cows were used in experiment 2. An experimental barn consisted of two 3.5 square‐meter pens, and a corridor measuring 1.6 m wide and 1.3 m long. During the experiment, either side of the pens were treated. In experiment 1, straw bedding was placed in a treated pen (condition B) in the first two trials, a brush was added in the treated pen (condition BB) in the next two trials, and a peer's face picture was displayed in the treated pen (condition BBF) in the last two trials. In experiment 2, condition B was applied for the first two trials, a peer's face picture was displayed in the treated pen (condition BF) in the next two trials, and condition BBF was applied for the last two trials. Each cow was housed alone from 09.00 hour to 15.00 h in the experimental barn during the six trials. The cows stayed in the treatment pen longer than in the non‐treatment pen under all conditions in experiments 1 and 2. In experiment 1, the mean total time spent in the treatment pen was longer under condition BBF than under conditions B and BB. In experiment 2, the mean total time spent in the treatment pen was shorter under condition B than under conditions BF and BBF. The mean percentage of time spent ruminating was greater under condition BBF than under condition B. It is concluded that the cows preferred the peer's face picture in the isolated condition of preference testing in this study.
A novel metallocarboxypeptidase‐like enzyme from the marine annelid Sabellastarte magnifica– a step into the invertebrate world of proteases
Authors: Alonso‐del‐Rivero Maday , Trejo Sebastian A. , Rodríguez de la Vega Mónica , González Yamile , Bronsoms Silvia , Canals Francesc , Delfín Julieta , Diaz Joaquin , Aviles Francesc X. , Chávez María A.
Published: August 2009

After screening 25 marine invertebrates, a novel metallocarboxypeptidase (SmCP) has been identified by activity and MS analytical approaches, and isolated from the marine annelid Sabellastarte magnifica. The enzyme, which is a minor component of the molecularly complex animal body, as shown by 2D gel electrophoresis, has been purified from crude extracts to homogeneity by affinity chromatography on potato carboxypeptidase inhibitor and by ion exchange chromatography. SmCP is a protease of 33792 Da, displaying N‐terminal and internal sequence homologies with M14 metallocarboxypeptidase‐like enzymes, as determined by MS and automated Edman degradation. The enzyme contains one atom of Zn per molecule, is activated by Ca2+ and is drastically inhibited by the metal chelator 1,10‐phenanthroline, as well as by excess Zn2+ or Cu2+, but moderately so by EDTA. SmCP is also strongly inhibited by specific inhibitors of metallocarboxypeptidases, such as benzylsuccinic acid and the protein inhibitors found in potato and leech (i.e. recombinant forms, both at nanomolar levels). The enzyme displays high peptidase efficiency towards pancreatic carboxypeptidase‐A synthetic substrates, such as those with hydrophobic residues at the C‐terminus but, remarkably, also towards the acidic ones. This property, previously described as for carboxypeptidase O‐like activity, has been shown on long peptide substrates by MS. The results obtained in the present study indicate that SmCP is a novel member of the M14 metallocarboxypeptidases family (assignable to the M14A or pancreatic‐like subfamily) with a wider specificity that has not been described previously.
Oxidative stress induces a reversible flux of cysteine from tissues to blood in vivo in the rat
Authors: Giustarini Daniela , Dalle‐Donne Isabella , Milzani Aldo , Rossi Ranieri
Published: August 2009

Glutathione (GSH) plays a key role in defense against oxidative stress. The availability of GSH is ensured in tissues by systems devoted to its maintenance in the reduced state and by the flux of GSH and cysteine between sites of biosynthesis and sites of utilization. Little is known about the effect of oxidative stress on the distribution of low‐molecular‐mass thiols and their exchange rate between tissues. In this study, we found that a slow infusion of diamide (a specific thiol‐oxidizing compound) evoked a dramatic increase in blood cysteine in rats. Our data suggest that inter‐organ exchange of cysteine occurs, that cysteine derives from both glutathione via γ‐glutamyl transpeptidase and methionine via homocysteine and the trans‐sulfuration pathway, and that these pathways are considerably influenced by oxidative stress.
Energy barriers for HET‐s prion forming domain amyloid formation
Authors: Sabaté R. , Castillo V. , Espargaró A. , Saupe Sven J. , Ventura S.
Published: August 2009

The prion‐forming domain comprising residues 218–289 of the fungal prion HET‐s forms infectious amyloid fibrils at physiological pH. Because a high‐resolution molecular model for the structure of these fibrils exists, it constitutes an attractive system with which to study the mechanism of amyloid assembly. Understanding aggregation under specific conditions requires a quantitative knowledge of the kinetics and thermodynamics of the self‐assembly process. We report here the study of the temperature and agitation dependence of the HET‐s(218–289) fibril nucleation (kn) and elongation (ke) rate constants at physiological pH. Over our temperature and agitation range, kn and ke increased 30‐fold and three‐fold, respectively. Both processes followed the Arrhenius law, allowing calculation of the thermodynamic activation parameters associated with them. The data confirm the nucleation reaction as the rate‐limiting step of amyloid fibril formation. The formation of the nucleus appears to depend mainly on enthalpic factors, whereas both enthalpic and entropic effects contribute similarly to the energy barrier to fibril elongation. A kinetic model is proposed in which nucleation depends on the presence of an initially collapsed, but poorly structured, HET‐s(218–289) state and in which the fibril tip models the conformation of the incoming monomers without substantial disorganization of its structure during the elongation process.
Weak toxin WTX fromNaja kaouthiacobra venom interacts with both nicotinic and muscarinic acetylcholine receptors
Authors: Mordvintsev Dmitry Yu. , Polyak Yakov L. , Rodionov Dmitry I. , Jakubik Jan , Dolezal Vladimir , Karlsson Evert , Tsetlin Victor I. , Utkin Yuri N.
Published: August 2009

Iodinated [125I] weak toxin fromNaja kaouthia(WTX) cobra venom was injected into mice, and organ‐specific binding was monitored. Relatively high levels of [125I]WTX were detected in the adrenal glands. Rat adrenal membranes were therefore used for analysis of [125I]WTX‐binding sites. Specific [125I]WTX binding was partially inhibited by both α‐cobratoxin, a blocker of the α7 and muscle‐type nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs), and by atropine, an antagonist of the muscarinic acetylcholine receptor (mAChR). Binding to rat adrenal nAChR had aKdof 2.0 ± 0.8 μmand was inhibited by α‐cobratoxin but not by a short‐chain α‐neurotoxin antagonist of the muscle‐type nAChR, suggesting a specific interaction with the α7‐type nAChR. WTX binding was reduced not only by atropine but also by other muscarinic agents (oxotremorine and muscarinic toxins fromDendroaspis angusticeps), indicating an interaction with mAChR. This interaction was further characterized using individual subtypes of human mAChRs expressed in Chinese hamster ovary cells. WTX concentrations up to 30 μmdid not inhibit binding of [3H]acetylcholine to any subtype of mAChR by more than 50%. Depending on receptor subtype, WTX either increased or had no effect on the binding of the muscarinic antagonist [3H]N‐methylscopolamine, which binds to the orthosteric site, a finding indicative of an allosteric interaction. Furthermore, WTX alone activated G‐protein coupling with all mAChR subtypes and reduced the efficacy of acetylcholine in activating G‐proteins with the M1, M4, and M5subtypes. Our data demonstrate an orthosteric WTX interaction with nAChR and an allosteric interaction with mAChRs.
A large complex mediated by Moc1, Moc2 and Cpc2 regulates sexual differentiation in fission yeast
Authors: Paul Swapan Kumar , Oowatari Yasuo , Kawamukai Makoto
Published: August 2009

Sexual differentiation in Schizosaccharomyces pombe is triggered by nutrient starvation and is downregulated by cAMP. Screening programs have identified the moc1/sds23, moc2/ded1, moc3 and moc4/zfs1 genes as inducers of sexual differentiation, even in the presence of elevated levels of cAMP. To investigate possible interactions among Moc1, Moc2, Moc3 and Moc4 proteins, we first screened for individual Moc‐interacting proteins using the yeast two‐hybrid system and verified the interactions with other Moc proteins. Using this screening process, Cpc2 and Rpl32‐2 were highlighted as factors involved in interactions with multiple Moc proteins. Cpc2 interacted with Moc1, Moc2 and Moc3, whereas the ribosomal protein Rpl32‐2 interacted with all Moc proteins in the two‐hybrid system. Physical interactions of Cpc2 with Moc1, Moc2 and Rpl32‐2, and of Rpl32‐2 with Moc2 were confirmed by coimmunoprecipitation. In addition, using Blue Native/PAGE, we revealed that each Moc protein exists as a large complex. Overexpression of Moc1, Moc2, Moc3, Moc4 and Rpl32‐2 resulted in the efficient induction of a key transcription factor Ste11, suggesting that all proteins tested are positive regulators of Ste11. Considering that Moc2/Ded1 is a general translation factor and that Cpc2 associates with many ribosomal proteins, including Rpl32‐2, it is possible that a large Moc‐mediated complex, detected in this study, may act as a translational regulator involved in the control of sexual differentiation in S. pombe through the induction of Ste11.

Structured digital abstract

A list of the large number of protein‐protein interactions described in this article is available via the MINT article ID MINT‐7216191
The crystal structure of a xyloglucan‐specific endo‐β‐1,4‐glucanase from Geotrichum sp. M128 xyloglucanase reveals a key amino acid residue for substrate specificity
Authors: Yaoi Katsuro , Kondo Hidemasa , Hiyoshi Ayako , Noro Natsuko , Sugimoto Hiroshi , Tsuda Sakae , Miyazaki Kentaro
Published: August 2009

Geotrichum sp. M128 possesses two xyloglucan‐specific glycoside hydrolases belonging to family 74, xyloglucan‐specific endo‐β‐1,4‐glucanase (XEG) and oligoxyloglucan reducing‐end‐specific cellobiohydrolase (OXG‐RCBH). Despite their similar amino acid sequences (48% identity), their modes of action and substrate specificities are distinct. XEG catalyzes the hydrolysis of xyloglucan polysaccharides in endo mode, while OXG‐RCBH acts on xyloglucan oligosaccharides at the reducing end in exo mode. Here, we determined the crystal structure of XEG at 2.5 Å resolution, and compared it to a previously determined structure of OXG‐RCBH. For the most part, the amino acid residues that interact with substrate are conserved between the two enzymes. However, there are notable differences at subsite positions −1 and +2. OXG‐RCBH has a loop around the +2 site that blocks one end of the active site cleft, which accounts for its exo mode of action. In contrast, XEG lacks a corresponding loop at this site, thereby allowing binding to the middle of the main chain of the substrate. At the −1 site in OXG‐RCBH, Asn488 interacts with the xylose side chain of the substrate, whereas the −1 site is occupied by Tyr457 in XEG. To confirm the contribution of this residue to substrate specificity, Tyr457 was substituted by Gly in XEG. The wild‐type XEG cleaved the oligoxyloglucan at a specific site; the Y457G variant cleaved the same substrate, but at various sites. Together, the absence of a loop in the cleft and the presence of bulky Tyr457 determine the substrate specificity of XEG.
Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder (PGAD): Case Report of Long-Term Symptomatic Management with Electroconvulsive Therapy
Authors: Korda Joanna B. , Pfaus James G. , Kellner Charles H. , Goldstein Irwin
Published: August 2009

Introduction

This is the second case report of a woman with bipolar disorder type I who noted the onset of persistent genital arousal disorder (PGAD) symptoms after abrupt cessation of paroxetine. With the worsening of PGAD symptoms, she developed severe depression and suicidal thoughts, resulting in her undergoing electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) as management.

Aim

To describe a case of PGAD and develop hypotheses to explain the beneficial actions of ECT on PGAD based on 4 years of ECT administration.

Methods

Patient self-report after obtaining consent, as well as literature review.

Results

After the fourth ECT, the patient’s PGAD symptoms abated serendipitously. She was placed on ECT on demand for the treatment of her PGAD. With each ECT treatment, PGAD symptoms immediately disappeared, relapsing slowly over time until the next ECT was administered. The patient has, thus far, received a total of 30 treatments of ECT. Side effects continue to be minimal and include brief short-term memory loss, headache, and muscle aches.

Conclusion

ECT is known to induce cerebral excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitter changes after acute and chronic administration. Sexual arousal is stimulated by the action of hypothalamic and limbic dopamine, noradrenaline, melanocortin, and oxytocin, and inhibited by serotonin, cerebral opioids, and endocannabinoids. Based on the patient’s bipolar disorder, the mechanism of action of ECT and the observation of ECT effectiveness on her PGAD, we hypothesize the following: (i) bipolar disorder led to central hyperactive dopamine release, an important component in the pathophysiology of her PGAD; (ii) central serotonin deficiency after selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) withdrawal resulted in a lack of inhibition of sexual excitement; (iii) ECT resulted in lowering of the hyperstimulated central dopamine release; and (iv) ECT led to an increase in sexual inhibition by stimulating serotonin activity. Further research in the central control of sexual arousal is needed.
Genistein Supplements Might Not Induce Clitoral Modifications in Postmenopausal Women: A Prospective, Pilot Study
Authors: Battaglia Cesare , Cianciosi Arianna , Mancini Fulvia , Fabbri Raffaella , Busacchi Paolo , Nappi Rossella Elena , Venturoli Stefano
Published: August 2009

Introduction

Vaginal dryness, low sexual desire, and low sexual arousability are critical issues for many postmenopausal women. Hormone therapy seems to improve vaginal lubrication and dyspareunia.

Aim

To evaluate, in postmenopausal women who refused hormonal therapy, the role of genistein in the treatment of vasomotor symptoms and its capacity to induce clitoral volumetric and vascular modifications independently from sexual stimulation.

Methods

Twenty-nine postmenopausal women who refused hormonal therapy were submitted to oral daily treatment with genistein 45 mg (Group I; N = 15); or no treatment (Group II; N = 14). The Group II patients served as controls. The patients were not randomly assigned to the two groups. The patients were studied before and after 3 months.

Main Outcomes Measures

Endometrial and clitoral ultrasonographic analysis; color Doppler evaluation of the dorsal clitoral artery; evaluation of hormonal plasma concentrations; administration of the two-factor Italian McCoy Female Sexuality Questionnaire; compilation of a monthly diary reporting the number of hot flashes. The ultrasound, color Doppler and psychometric tests were performed by examiners blinded to the participant’s group assignment.

Results

In the genistein-treated patients the vasomotor symptoms ameliorated at the end of the study. The use of genistein did not influence any other parameter.

Conclusions

Postmenopausal women submitted to a 3-months treatment with genistein showed an improvement of vasomotor symptoms. However, isoflavones seem to not induce any modification in the clitoral structures.
Predictors of Recovery of Erectile Function after Unilateral Cavernous Nerve Graft Reconstruction at Radical Retropubic Prostatectomy
Authors: Rabbani Farhang , Ramasamy Ranjith , Patel Manish I. , Cozzi Paul , Disa Joseph J. , Cordeiro Peter G. , Mehrara Babak J. , Eastham James A. , Scardino Peter T. , Mulhall John P.
Published: August 2009

Introduction

Although studies have reported a benefit to bilateral cavernous nerve graft (NG) interposition, the role of unilateral NG interposition in recovery of erectile function (EF) after radical prostatectomy (RP) with unilateral neurovascular bundle (NVB) resection is more controversial.

Aim

To determine the probability and predictors of EF recovery after unilateral cavernous NG at RP with unilateral NVB resection.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the records of preoperatively potent men who underwent RP with unilateral NVB resection and ipsilateral NG without prior radiation or hormonal therapy from 1999 to 2007. Postoperative EF was defined in two ways: (i) physician interview-based assessment (level 3: erections sometimes sufficient for intercourse; level 2: erections routinely sufficient for intercourse; level 1: normal erections; all with or without oral phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor use); and (ii) according to the sum Q3+Q4 on the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire.

Main Outcome Measures

EF recovery based on physician interview-based scale and IIEF questionnaire.

Results

In all, 131 men underwent unilateral NG. Median follow-up was 37.3 months. The 5-year actuarial probability of EF recovery was 46, 30, and 12% for levels 3, 2, and 1, respectively, and 40, 34, and 22% for IIEF Q3+Q4 sum ≥6, ≥8, and = 10, respectively. On multivariate analysis, patient age, specimen weight, and plastic surgeon were predictive of EF recovery based on physician-interview whereas patient age, ethnicity, and plastic surgeon were predictive of EF recovery based on the IIEF questionnaire.

Conclusions

The impact of plastic surgeon on EF recovery with unilateral NG would suggest that technical factors play a role in EF recovery after unilateral NG. Meticulous surgical technique with proper identification of proximal and distal recipient nerve endings may improve the chance of EF recovery. The variation in recovery rate among plastic surgeons would imply that there is a benefit to unilateral NG in EF recovery.
Competitive feedback in galaxy formation
Authors: Nayakshin Sergei , Wilkinson Mark I. , King Andrew
Published: August 2009

It is now well established that many galaxies have nuclear star clusters (NCs) whose total masses correlate with the velocity dispersion σ of the galaxy spheroid in a very similar way to the well-known supermassive black hole (SMBH) M−σ relation. Previous theoretical work suggested that both correlations can be explained by a momentum feedback argument. Observations further show that most known NCs have masses ≲108 M⊙, while SMBHs frequently have measured masses ≳108 M⊙, which remained unexplained in earlier treatments. We suggest here that this changeover reflects a competition between the SMBH and nuclear clusters in the feedback they produce. When one of the massive objects reaches its limiting M−σ value, it drives the gas away and hence cuts off its own mass and also the mass of the ‘competitor’. The latter is then underweight with respect to the expected M−σ mass.

More specifically, we find that the bulge dynamical time-scale is a steeply rising function of velocity dispersion, and that the NC–SMBH changeover occurs where the dynamical time is about equal to the Salpeter time. We propose that SMBHs, growing on the Salpeter time-scale, are unable to reach their M−σ mass quickly enough in small bulges. The central regions of these bulges are swamped with gas which fragments into stars, creating the nuclear clusters. The latter then limit their own growth by the feedback they produce, settling on their (offset) M−σ relation. The SMBH in such bulges should be underweight as their growth is curtailed before they reach the M−σ mass. In large bulges, on the other hand, the SMBH catches up quickly enough to settle on its M−σ relation. Nuclear star clusters may also exist in such bulges but they should be underweight with respect to their M−σ sequence.
PHYSICOCHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF EUROPEAN BAKERY MARGARINES WITH AND WITHOUT TRANS FATTY ACIDS
Authors: CAVILLOT V. , PIERART C. , DE MEERENDRÉ M. KERVYN , VINCENT M. , PAQUOT M. , WOUTERS J. , DEROANNE C. , DANTHINE S.
Published: August 2009

Physicochemical properties of commercially available European bakery margarines (cream margarines, cake margarines [CM] and puff pastry margarines [PPM]) containing and devoid of trans fatty acids (TFAs) were investigated. Studied physical properties were the solid fat content (SFC), dropping points (DPs), polymorphism, texture (hardness), plasticity and the melting profile by differential scanning calorimetry. Experimental results confirm that physical properties of the margarines corresponded with their application area. For example, SFC and DPs of PPM were higher than cream margarines and CM; they were also harder at 15C. Moreover, all the investigated physical properties were affected by the suppression of TFA in bakery margarines.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

This study has shown that margarines present different physical properties with respect to their purposed application but also highlight changes that appear due to the absence of trans‐fatty acids in the formulations. These changes can really affect the bakery abilities and will, finally, influence the quality of the bakery products.
ALPHA‐LINOLENIC ACID AND LINOLEIC ACID IN SERUM AND TISSUES AFTER FLAXSEED (Linum usitatissimum) OIL IN VIVO ADMINISTRATION
Authors: AVALLONE ROSSELLA , RUSTICHELLI CECILIA , CAMPIOLI ENRICO , NOTARANGELO FRANCESCA MARIA PIA , BRAGHIROLI DANIELA , BARALDI MARIO
Published: August 2009

Essential fatty acids can be helpful in the prevention of several pathologies. The bioavailability of acute supplementation of different doses of flaxseed oil was studied by analyzing the level of alpha‐linolenic acid (ALA) and linoleic acid (LA) in serum and tissues (adipose, liver) of rats tested at 2, 4, 8 and 16 h after the administration. The amount of flaxseed oil administered at increasing doses corresponded to 1, 2.5 and 5 g ALA/kg of body weight. The corresponding fatty acid methyl esters obtained via direct methylation were quantified using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Serum ALA level increased after 1 or 2.5 g/kg. ALA was increased in both adipose and liver tissue 4 h after the administration of 1 g/kg of flaxseed oil. There was no further increase by using a higher oil dosage. LA did not change in serum at the doses used.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The bioavailability of acute supplementation of increasing doses of flaxseed oil was examined by analyzing the level of alpha‐linolenic acid (ALA) (ω3) and linoleic acid (ω6) in serum and tissues (adipose, liver).These data suggest that there is a limiting step in the absorption of these fatty acids and that there is no advantage to take more than 1 g/kg of ALA supplementation. The daily use of flaxseed oil could be a good alternative in some cases to fish oil in the prevention of several pathologies.
EFFECT OF n‐3 POLYUNSATURATED FATTY ACIDS ON OXIDATIVE STRESS IN RATS SUPPLEMENTED WITH DIFFERENT DOSES OF FISH OIL
Authors: MONTEIRO VÂNIA C.B. , CARVALHO ANA CAROLINA LIMA , BUENO ARTHUR SOARES , ROGERO MARCELO M. , CASTRO INAR A.
Published: August 2009

The diet and plasma lipid patterns associated with lipid oxidation susceptibility in rats fed different doses of polyunsaturated fatty acids (n‐3 PUFA) from fish oil were evaluated. Wistar rats were assigned into three groups and received diets containing 8% soybean oil (SOY), 4% soybean oil + 4% fish oil (SOY‐FISH) and 8% fish oil (FISH) for 21 days. Linoleic, oleic and α‐linolenic acids in SOY diets were substituted by myristic, palmitic, palmitoleic, eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA) acids in SOY‐FISH and FISH diets reducing the n‐6/n‐3 ratio and increasing the peroxidability index (PI). Increased dietary EPA and DHA were observed in SOY‐FISH and FISH plasma at the expense of linoleic and arachidonic acid levels. Saturated fatty acids, which were significantly different between the three diets (P < 0.01), were found at the same concentration in the plasma (P = 0.23). No changes were observed in oxidative stress as measured by the concentration of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) expressed in brain homogenates. However, TBARS concentration in the plasma of the SOY‐FISH group was higher than the other two groups (P = 0.02). The major differences between these three groups were the n‐3 PUFA content (0.4, 1.8 and 3.2 g/100 g diet) and the saturates/polyunsaturates ratio (0.3, 0.5 and 0.8) for SOY, SOY‐FISH, and FISH groups, respectively. Thus, n‐3 PUFA intake from fish oil only when followed by a decrease in saturated/polyunsaturated fatty acids ratio increased oxidative susceptibility in rats measured by plasma TBARS concentration.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Because fish oil intake is associated with risk reduction for cardiovascular disease, individuals are taking supplements containing a high dose of fish oil. However, there is no scientific consensus if the intake of a high dose of fish oil could increase the oxidative stress. Thus, more studies are necessary to assure the safety of this kind of supplementation.
EFFECT OF IMMATURE AND OFF‐COLORED SEEDS ON THE LIPID QUALITY OF MILLED FLAXSEED
Authors: MANTHEY FRANK A. , SCHORNO ANTON L. , HALL III CLIFFORD A.
Published: August 2009

The effect of visibly inferior flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) on the lipid quality of milled flaxseed was investigated. Flaxseed was aspirated and separated into low‐, medium‐ and high‐density fractions. All density fractions contained≤0.1% broken seed,≤0.4% contrasting seed and≤0.25% extraneous material. The low‐density fraction contained the most immature (2.8%) and off‐colored seed (4.1%). Immature seed had a lipid content of 40.8%, a peroxide value (PV) of 2.69 meq/kg and a free fatty acid (FFA) content of 1.06%. The off‐colored seed had a lipid content of 38.1%, a PV of 5.79 meq/kg, and a FFA content of 1.89%. Hand‐cleaned seed (averaged across fraction density) had a lipid content of 41.4%, a PV of 0.41 meq/kg and FFA content of 0.37%. The removal of seed defects improved flaxseed quality and improved lipid quality in the low‐density fraction.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Lipid oxidation is a major concern when using milled flaxseed as a food ingredient. These results indicate the importance of removing off‐colored and immature flaxseed. Seed lots that contain immature and off‐colored seed likely will have poor lipid quality and, when milled, be more susceptible to lipid oxidation during storage than will seed lots free of immature and off‐colored seed.
Developing a Synthetic Index of Land Vulnerability to Drought and Desertification
Authors: SALVATI LUCA , ZITTI MARCO , CECCARELLI TOMASO , PERINI LUIGI
Published: August 2009

This paper develops an index of the vulnerability of land to drought and desertification (LVI) for Italy. The index takes into account changes in climate, land use, vegetation cover, soil properties, and population during the period 1990–2000. The LVI was built up through a multivariate approach aimed at assessing the importance of the various indicators included in the synthetic index. Increasing land vulnerability was observed during this time, especially in dry areas of the southern regions. This is interpreted as a consequence of land management practices, agricultural intensification, population pressure, and bio‐physical degradation. The LVI can be used in an integrated, decision‐support system to evaluate the impact of mitigation policies in rural environments.
Secular Regime Shifts, Global Warming and Sydney's Water Supply
Authors: WARNER ROBIN
Published: August 2009

Sydney's water crisis has been attributed to long‐term drought, a population growing at >50 000 a year, the early impacts of global warming and the demands of a 4.2 million population leading a water‐thirsty lifestyle. In this paper the drought is linked with a return to a drought‐dominated flow regime in eastern New South Wales. This began in 1991 and is associated with a shift from flood to drought domination that occurs every 20 to 50 years. Its impacts will be further exaggerated by global warming. The reduction of runoff into Sydney's reservoirs is due primarily to regime shift, resulting in the diminution of inflows to about 25% of their levels in the 42 years before 1991. Possible ways of managing these dwindling water resources include building more reservoirs, exploiting largely unknown sources of groundwater, constructing a desalination plant, harvesting rainwater in the city, recycling used urban water and reducing individual water use. Despite arguments against the first three of these options, a desalination plant is currently under construction and investigations of deep groundwater proceed (shelved 18th June, 2008). Given that sources of water are distant and located in areas where rainfall reductions have been significant, greater efforts should be made to use water already in the city (rainfall and recycled water). Water restrictions and better domestic management of water are also areas where great savings can be and have been made.
A comparative analysis of the impact of culture on university foodservice satisfaction: a pilot study
Authors: Ruetzler Tanya , Hertzman Jean , Taylor Jim
Published: August 2009

The purpose of this study was to expand the research in university foodservices and cross‐cultural service quality perceptions initiated by Ruetzler by investigating whether differences existed between students at a southeastern and a southwestern university. Using factor analysis and multivariate analysis of variance tests, significant differences were revealed based on culture in three factors among the southeastern students; however, no differences existed among the southwestern students. When the two universities were compared with each other, significant differences were discovered in two factors. This study confirmed that the six factors resulting from Ruetzler's research were transferable to a larger university in a different geographical location. However, broad assumptions that specific cultural preferences at one university would remain the same at another university should not be made. As international student populations continue to grow, administrators and foodservice providers should consider this segment when operating, evaluating and making decisions regarding campus foodservice outlets.
Prison foodservice in Australia – systems, menus and inmate attitudes
Authors: Williams Peter , Walton Karen , Hannan‐Jones Mary
Published: August 2009

This paper presents results from three studies in 25 custodial facilities in three Australian states, including nutrient analyses of menus and focus groups exploring inmate attitudes. Both cook‐fresh and cook‐chill production systems are used. Non‐selective cycle menus of 4–6 weeks are common but inmates can supplement meals by purchase of additional food items (‘buy‐ups’). Menus included adequate variety and met most nutritional standards, with the possible exception of fruit. The sodium content of menus is above recommended levels. Protein, fibre, vitamins A and C, thiamin, riboflavin, calcium, iron and zinc were more than adequate, and the percentage energy from fat is close to or meets national recommendations. Focus groups identified 16 themes, including meal quality, food available at ‘buy‐ups’, cooking facilities and concerns about possible food safety risks associated with inmates storing food in cells. Many complaints were about factors not under the control of the foodservice manager.
Calcium metabolism in eight dogs with hypoadrenocorticism
Authors: Gow A. G. , Gow D. J. , Bell R. , Simpson J. W. , Chandler M. L. , Evans H. , Berry J. L. , Herrtage M. E. , Mellanby R. J.
Published: August 2009

Hypoadrenocorticism is a well‐described endocrinopathy in dogs that results from deficient production and secretion of glucocorticoids and/or mineralocorticoids. Although hyperkalaemia, hyponatraemia and hypochloraemia are the most common electrolyte disturbances, hypercalcaemia also occurs in approximately 30 per cent of cases. The pathogenesis of hypercalcaemia in dogs with hypoadrenocorticism is unknown. This case series reports ionised calcium, parathyroid hormone, parathyroid hormone‐related protein and vitamin D metabolite concentrations that were measured in eight dogs with concurrent hypercalcaemia and hypoadrenocorticism. Ionised calcium was increased in five of seven dogs with hypercalcaemia associated with hypoadrenocorticism. Parathyroid hormone, parathyroid hormone‐related protein and 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D concentrations were within their reference ranges in seven of eight dogs, six of seven cases and six of seven dogs, respectively. This case series highlights that hypercalcaemia associated with hypoadrenocorticism is rarely associated with increases in plasma parathyroid hormone, parathyroid hormone‐related protein or serum 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D concentrations.
Multi‐focal cerebral oligoastrocytoma in a puppy
Authors: Walmsley G. L. , Chandler K. , Davies E. S. , Lamb C. R. , Smyth B. , Summers B. A.
Published: August 2009

A nine‐month‐old puppy was presented for investigation of seizures. Neurological deficits were found localising to the prosencephalon, mesencephalon and myelencephalon. Magnetic resonance imaging identified multiple, large lesions involving both cerebral hemispheres. Management with antiepileptic and immunomodulatory drugs was instituted; however, the seizures became progressively refractory and the puppy was euthanased. Histopathology following post‐mortem examination found a mixed glial cell tumour with discrete areas where neoplastic cells appeared oligodendroglial or astrocytic. Primary intracranial neoplasia is a rare cause of neurological disease in young dogs. Moreover, this case is unusual in terms of both the mixed glial nature of the neoplasm and also its multi‐focal distribution.