bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of La on Dielectric and Piezoelectric Properties of Pb1−xLa2x/3(Nb0.95Ti0.0625)2 O6 Ceramics
Authors: Men Gao‐li , Liu Peng , Zhang Ruo‐xi , Chen Hong , Wang Bo , Zhou Jian‐ping , Zhu Gang‐qiang
Published: June 2009

Ceramics with the chemical compositions of Pb1−xLa2x/3(Nb0.95Ti0.0625)2O6 (0≤x≤0.060) (PLTN) were prepared by the conventional solid‐state reaction method. X‐ray diffraction analysis indicated that Ti and La doping not only decreased the rhombohedral–tetragonal phase transformation temperature, but also stabilized the orthorhombic phase of PLTN ceramics. All ceramics sintered at 1190°–1250°C had shown the pure orthorhombic ferroelectric phase. La doping suppresses grain growth and inhibits the formation of pores and cracks, resulting in an increase in relative density up to 97%. The amount of La doping to PLTN ceramics obviously affect ceramics' piezoelectric constant (d33) and dielectric loss (tanδ). The sample with x=0.015 possesses high Curie temperature (Tc=560°C), low dielectric loss (tanδ=0.0054), and excellent piezoelectric constant (d33=92 pC/N), presenting a high potential to be used in high‐temperature applications as piezoelectric transducers.
Effect of Acceptor (Mg) Concentration on the Resistance Degradation Behavior in Acceptor (Mg)‐Doped BaTiO3 Bulk Ceramics: II. Thermally Stimulated Depolarization Current Analysis
Authors: Yoon Seok‐Hyun , Randall Clive A. , Hur Kang‐Heon
Published: June 2009

Thermally stimulated depolarization current (TSDC) of acceptor (Mg)‐doped BaTiO3 ceramics was analyzed with different acceptor concentrations for coarse‐grained specimens with uniform grain sizes. In all specimens, the increase of the polarization temperature (TP) for a fixed condition of polarization field (EP) and polarization time (tP) increased TSDC peak associated with an oxygen vacancy (VO••) relaxation. When the acceptor concentration is increased, both TP to generate same magnitude of TSDC and the relaxation temperature (Tm) of the TSDC peak systematically decreased. On the other hand, the activation energy of the oxygen vacancy relaxation showed roughly constant values of ∼0.9 eV, irrespective of acceptor concentration. Such behavior can be explained by a decrease in the relaxation time constant (τ0), which is in turn associated with the shape of oxygen vacancy profile in the specimen after polarization. The decrease of TP, Tm, τ0, and the little change of activation energy from the TSDC data with the increase of acceptor concentration implies an increase in the oxygen vacancy concentration C(VO••). The experimentally observed behavior of C(VO••) vs acceptor concentration could be explained by the defect chemical model, and from these results, the acceptor ionization energy EA was estimated to be about 1.0 eV.
Effects of Rice Straw on the Color and Microstructure of Bizen, a Traditional Japanese Stoneware, as a Function of Oxygen Partial Pressure
Authors: Kusano Yoshihiro , Doi Akira , Fukuhara Minoru , Nakanishi Makoto , Fujii Tatsuo , Takada Jun , Ikeda Yasunori , Takano Mikio , Henrist Catherine , Cloots Rudi , Rulmont André , Ausloos Marcel
Published: June 2009

The effects of oxygen partial pressure during thermal treatment on the color and microstructure of Bizen, a traditional Japanese stoneware, were studied through model experiments using clay pellets covered lightly with rice straw as a coloring assistant. When heated in flowing nitrogen, the model pellet turned blackish owing to the formation of α‐Fe particles coated with graphite. However, schreibersite (Fe3P), which is also blackish, was formed specifically on the pellet surface in direct contact with the straw. The rice straw seems to have generated a strongly reducing atmosphere, strong enough for the metallization to α‐Fe, and also to have provided phosphorus through contact. When oxygen content in the surrounding gas atmosphere was raised to N2/O2=99/1, the pellet surface turned yellowish brown because the main coloring material was Fe3+‐containing mullite. At oxygen contents of N2/O2=98/2 or more, the formation of hematite (α‐Fe2O3) pushed the color to deep red.
Upconversion Luminescence in γ‐AlON:Yb3+,Tm3+ Ceramic Phosphors
Authors: Zhang Fang , An Liqiong , Liu Xuejian , Zhou Guohong , Yuan Xianyang , Wang Shiwei
Published: June 2009

Upconversion emission properties of γ‐AlON:Yb3+,Tm3+ phosphors were investigated under single‐wavelength diode laser excitation of 980 nm. Blue (479 nm) and red (653 nm) emission bands were observed which correspond to the transitions of 1G4→3H6 and 1G4→3F4 of Tm3+ ions, respectively. The upconversion spectra show a concentration‐dependent luminescence intensity, reaching its peak at a concentration of 1.2 mol% Yb and 0.5 mol% Tm. Pump power dependence of the upconversion emission intensity (P–I) revealed that a two‐photon process was involved in the blue and red emissions.
Spinel‐Coated Graphite for Carbon Containing Refractory Castables
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Sunanda , Dutta Sarbasree , Ansar Sheikh A. , Das Sumita , Misra Susmita
Published: June 2009

Oxidation resistance and water wettability of graphite flakes have been improved by a thin sol–gel film of magnesium aluminate spinel (MgAl2O4) over its surface. The hydrosol has been synthesized by less expensive precursors and the spinel formation has been studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), supplemented with energy dispersive spectral analysis. After an easy‐to‐use mixing procedure, drying (110°C), and subsequent calcination (550°C), coated graphites were sieved to below 75 μm. The coating over the powder contained 1.5 wt% MgAl2O4, which enormously increased the oxidation resistance (performed at 600°, 900°, and 1200°C) and water wettability, as revealed by hydrophilic functional groups from infrared spectra. Defective, intermediate spinel structure of fine, lamellar Mg‐doped γ‐Al2O3 has been considered to be significant for this improvement. An approximate (1:2) stoichiometry of (Mg:Al) in the coating composition was confirmed by an X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy test. Castables prepared by this graphite remarkably improved their bulk density and apparent porosity compared with those prepared by the as‐received graphite. Casting water was reduced along with the amount of antioxidants. This also enhanced the resistance toward the basic slag by retaining the graphite in the refractory.
Spark Plasma Sintered Silicon Nitride Ceramics with High Thermal Conductivity Using MgSiN2 as Additives
Authors: Peng Gui‐hua , Liang Min , Liang Zhen‐hua , Li Qing‐yu , Li Wen‐lan , Liu Qian
Published: June 2009

Silicon nitride ceramics were prepared by spark plasma sintering (SPS) at temperatures of 1450°–1600°C for 3–12 min, using α‐Si3N4 powders as raw materials and MgSiN2 as sintering additives. Almost full density of the sample was achieved after sintering at 1450°C for 6 min, while there was about 80 wt%α‐Si3N4 phase left in the sintered material. α‐Si3N4 was completely transformed to β‐Si3N4 after sintering at 1500°C for 12 min. The thermal conductivity of sintered materials increased with increasing sintering temperature or holding time. Thermal conductivity of 100 W·(m·K)−1 was achieved after sintering at 1600°C for 12 min. The results imply that SPS is an effective and fast method to fabricate β‐Si3N4 ceramics with high thermal conductivity when appropriate additives are used.
A Si–Mo–W Coating to Protect SiC‐Coated Carbon/Carbon Composites Against Oxidation
Authors: Fu Qian‐Gang , Li He‐Jun , Li Ke‐Zhi , Tong Ke
Published: June 2009

In order to protect carbon/carbon (C/C) composites against oxidation, a Si–Mo–W coating was prepared on the surface of SiC‐coated C/C composites by a simple reaction method. The microstructures of the as‐received coating were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and energy dispersive spectroscopy analyses. The results show that the SiC/Si–Mo–W coating can protect C/C composites from oxidation in air at 1673 K for 220 h with a mass loss of 0.003%, and at 1773 K for 252 h with a mass gain of 1.56%. The excellent oxidation‐resistant property of the SiC/Si–Mo–W coating at 1673–1773 K is attributed to the formation of SiO2 film on the coating surface. The mass loss of the coated C/C composites during the oxidation test at 1873 K in air primarily resulted from the reaction of C/C substrate and oxygen diffusing through the penetration cracks in the coating.
Hertzian Ring Crack Initiation in Hot‐Pressed Silicon Carbides
Authors: Wereszczak Andrew A. , Johanns Kurt E. , Jadaan Osama M.
Published: June 2009

The use of Hertzian indentation to measure ring crack initiation force (RCIF) distributions in four hot‐pressed silicon carbide (SiC) ceramics is described. Three diamond indenter diameters were used with each SiC; the RCIF in each test was identified with the aid of an acoustic emission system; and two‐parameter Weibull RCIF distributions were determined for all 12 combinations. RCIF testing was found to be an effective discriminator of contact damage initiation and response. It consistently produced the same ranking of RCIF between the four SiCs, with all three different indenter diameters, which is noteworthy because Knoop hardness and fracture toughness measurements were only subtly different or equivalent for the four SiCs. However, because RCIF, like hardness, is a characteristic response of a target material to an applied indentation condition (e.g., a function of indenter diameter) and not a material property, the implications and possible limitations should be acknowledged when using RCIF to discriminate the target material response.
Photocatalytic Active Titania Nanowire Arrays on Ti Substrates
Authors: Wu Jin‐Ming , Xue Hong‐Xing
Published: June 2009

Titania nanowire arrays were fabricated by interactions of Ti substrates with hydrogen peroxide solutions containing melamine and nitric acid at a low temperature of 353 K for 72 h, followed by a subsequent thermal treatment at 723 K for 1 h. The titania nanowire was anatase with a mean diameter of 25 nm and an aspect ratio of ca. 40. The film possessed high activity to assist the photodegradation of rhodamine B in water under the illumination of simulated solar light.
Characterization of Ca2SiO4:Eu2+ Phosphors Synthesized by Polymeric Precursor Process
Authors: Choi Sung‐Woo , Hong Seong‐Hyeon , Kim Young Jin
Published: June 2009

The green emitting Ca2SiO4:Eu2+ (C2S:Eu) phosphors were synthesized by the polymeric precursor process (Pechini‐type), and the effects of calcination temperature and europium (Eu) doping concentration on the luminescent properties were investigated. The crystalline β‐C2S was obtained in the calcination temperature of 1100°–1400°C, and Eu was reduced into Eu2+ by annealing in 5% H2/N2 atmosphere. The obtained C2S:Eu2+ phosphors exhibited a strong emission at 504 nm under the excitation of λexc=350 nm. The highest photoluminescence (PL) intensity was observed in the C2S:Eu2+ phosphors either calcined at 1300°C or doped with 3 mol% Eu. The obtained PL properties were discussed in terms of crystal structure, particle size and shape, surface roughness, and effect of concentration quenching.
Epigenetic therapy in myeloproliferative neoplasms: evidence and perspectives
Authors: Vannucchi Alessandro M. , Guglielmelli Paola , Rambaldi Alessandro , Bogani Costanza , Barbui Tiziano
Published: June 2009

The myeloproliferative neoplasms

The molecular pathogenesls of MPN

Epigenetic events In cancer

Epigenetic events In MPN

Drugs for epigenetic therapy

Epigenetic therapy In MPN

Conclusions

The classic Philadelphia chromosome‐negative myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs), which include polycythaemia vera, essential thrombocythaemia and primary myelofibrosis, originate from a stem cell‐derived clonal myeloproliferation that manifests itself with variable haematopoietic cell lineage involvement; they are characterized by a high degree of similarities and the chance to transform each to the other and to evolve into acute leukaemia. Their molecular pathogenesis has been associated with recurrent acquired mutations in janus kinase 2 (JAK2) and myeloproliferative leukemia virus oncogene (MPL). These discoveries have simplified the diagnostic approach and provided a number of clues to understanding the phenotypic expression of MPNs; furthermore, they represented a framework for developing and/or testing in clinical trials small molecules acting as tyrosine kinase inhibitors. On the other hand, evidence of abnormal epigenetic gene regulation as a mechanism potentially contributing to the pathogenesis and the phenotypic diversity of MPNs is still scanty; however, study of epigenetics in MPNs represents an active field of research. The first clinical trials with epigenetic drugs have been completed recently, whereas others are still ongoing; results have been variable and at present do not allow any firm conclusion. Novel basic and translational information concerning epigenetic gene regulation in MPNs and the perspectives for therapy will be critically addressed in this review.
Melatonin induces apoptotic death in LNCaP cells via p38 and JNK pathways: therapeutic implications for prostate cancer
Authors: Joo Seong Soo , Yoo Yeong‐Min
Published: June 2009

Abstract:  Apoptosis, a form of cell death, is a fundamental process for the development and maintenance of multicellular organisms that promotes the removal of damaged, senescent or unwanted cells. Induction of cancer cell apoptosis is an important strategy of anticancer therapy. In this study, we examined if melatonin, the main secretory product of the pineal gland, inhibited the growth of prostate cancer cells (LNCaP) and promoted apoptosis via mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPKs), which are closely associated with apoptosis and survival. Melatonin treatment significantly inhibited the growth of LNCaP cells in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner. It clearly induced both an early stage of apoptosis (propidium iodide−, FITC Annexin‐V+) and a late apoptosis/secondary necrosis (propidium iodide+ and FITC Annexin‐V+), which indicated induction of serial stages of apoptosis in cells. Moreover, melatonin markedly activated c‐JUN N‐terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 kinase, whereas extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) was not responsive to melatonin. Treatment with MAPK inhibitors, PD98059 (ERK inhibitor), SP600125 (JNK inhibitor) and SB202190 (p38 inhibitor), confirmed that melatonin‐induced apoptosis was JNK‐ and p38‐dependent, but ERK‐independent. In the presence of PD98059, caspase‐3 activity increased, while levels of Bax/cytochrome c (Cyt c) and Bcl‐2 decreased. These effects were opposite to those observed with SP600125 and SB202190 treatments. Together, these results strongly suggest that JNK and p38 activation directly participate in apoptosis induced by melatonin. Thus, melatonin may be of promise for anti‐prostate cancer strategies.
Evidence of immune system melatonin production by two pineal melatonin deficient mice, C57BL/6 and Swiss strains
Authors: Gómez‐Corvera Araceli , Cerrillo Isabel , Molinero Patrocinio , Naranjo Maria Carmen , Lardone Patricia Judith , Sanchez‐Hidalgo Marina , Carrascosa‐Salmoral Maria Pilar , Medrano‐Campillo Pablo , Guerrero Juan Miguel , Rubio Amalia
Published: June 2009

Abstract:  We evaluated two pineal melatonin deficient mice described in the literature, i.e., C57BL/6 and Swiss mice, as animal models for studying the immunomodulatory action of melatonin. Plasma melatonin levels in C57BL/6 and Swiss strains were detectable, but lower than levels in control C3H/HENHSD mice. Since these strains are suppose to be pineal melatonin deficient an extrapineal melatonin synthesis may contribute to plasma levels. Regarding cells and tissues from the immune system, all of them were found to synthesize melatonin although at low levels. N‐acetyltransferase (AANAT) mRNA was also amplified in order to analyze the alternative splicing between exons 3–4 described for pineal C57BL/6 mice which generates an inclusion of a pseudoexon of 102 bp. For the pineal gland, both the wild type and the mutant isoforms were present in all mice strains although in different proportions. We observed a predominant wild type AANAT mature RNA in thymus, spleen and bone marrow cells. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) culture shown an evident AANAT amplification in all strains studied. Although the bands detected were less intense in melatonin deficient mice, the amplification almost reached the control cell intensity after stimulation with phytohemaglutinin (PHA). In summary, melatonin detection and AANAT mRNA expression in inbred and outbred mice clearly indicate that different cells and tissues from the immune system are able to synthesize melatonin. Thus, the pineal defect seems not to be generalized to all tissues, suggesting that other cells may compensate the low pineal melatonin production contributing to the measurable plasma melatonin level.
Membrane‐bound melatonin receptor MT1 down‐regulates estrogen responsive genes in breast cancer cells
Authors: Girgert Rainer , Hanf Volker , Emons Günter , Gründker Carsten
Published: June 2009

Abstract:  Melatonin possesses anti‐estrogenic effects on estrogen receptor expressing (ER+) breast cancer cells in culture by reducing cell cycle progression and cell proliferation. There is increasing agreement that on a cellular level the effects of melatonin are primarily induced by the membrane‐bound receptor MT1. The participation of a second, nuclear receptor of the group of ligand‐dependent transcription factors, called RZRα, is under debate. In this study we used a number of breast cancer cell lines differing in their expression of the estrogen receptor and the two known melatonin receptors. In MCF‐7 breast cancer cells transfected with a vector carrying the MT1 gene (MCF‐7Mel1a) binding of CREB‐protein to the cAMP‐responsive element of the breast cancer suppressing gene BRCA‐1 was more strongly reduced by treatment with melatonin than in the parental cells. Expression of estrogen responsive genes was determined in serum‐starved cells, cells stimulated for 16 hr with estradiol and cells subsequently treated with melatonin. Expression of BRCA‐1, p53, p21WAF and c‐myc were up‐regulated by estradiol. Treatment of the stimulated cells with melatonin counteracted the increase induced by estradiol almost completely. The more MT1 a cell line expressed, the stronger was the reduction of the expression of the estradiol‐induced genes. There was no correlation between the expression of the nuclear receptor RZRα and the effects of melatonin on these genes.
Induction of matrix metalloproteinase‐9 and ‐3 in nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug‐induced acute gastric ulcers in mice: regulation by melatonin
Authors: Ganguly Krishnendu , Swarnakar Snehasikta
Published: June 2009

Abstract:  The pathogenesis of gastric ulcer is associated with remodeling of extracellular matrix (ECM) by various matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). However, how MMPs are regulated during nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID)‐induced acute gastric ulceration is not well studied. In this study, different NSAIDs (80 mg/kg b.w.) were applied to generate acute gastric ulcer in the BALB/c mouse and the regulation of MMPs were investigated. NSAIDs caused dose‐dependent induction in MMP‐9 and ‐3 activities and expressions in ulcerated gastric tissues along with significant infiltration of inflammatory cells and disruption of gastric mucosal layer. In addition, an increase in tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, interleukin (IL)‐1β and IL‐8 expression, excessive generation of hydroxyl radical (•OH), and protein oxidation and lipid peroxidation were observed in acute ulcerated gastric tissues. In this study, the efficacy of melatonin on activities of MMP‐9 and ‐3 during prevention of gastric ulcers was tested. Melatonin at a dose of 60 mg/kg b.w. downregulated MMP‐9 and ‐3 both at the enzyme and protein levels in mouse gastric tissues during prevention as well as healing of acute gastric ulcers. It also blocked oxidative stress via inhibition of protein oxidation, lipid peroxidation, •OH generation and SOD‐2 expression. Moreover, it suppressed myeloperoxidase activity and expressions of TNF‐α, IL‐1β and IL‐8. This study documents for the first time that induction of MMP‐9 and ‐3 activities accompany NSAID‐induced inflammation and oxidative stress in gastric tissues and indicates that, melatonin may be a preventive or therapeutic remedy for gastric ulcers.
Correlation between socioeconomic indicators and traumatic dental injuries: a qualitative critical literature review
Authors: Bendo Cristiane B. , Scarpelli Ana C. , Vale Miriam Pimenta Parreira , Araújo Zarzar Patrícia Maria Pereira
Published: June 2009

Abstract –  Background/Aim: Traumatic dental injuries are widespread and have become a serious dental public health problem in childhood. Despite its importance, very few studies have correlated the prevalence of permanent tooth injury and socioeconomic indicators. The aim of the present study was to evaluate just such a correlation. Materials and Methods: Electronic searches were performed in the following bibliographical databases: Brazilian Bibliography of Dentistry, Scientific Electronic Library Online, Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences, The Cochrane Library, ISI Web of Knowledge, International Database for Medical Literature and PubMed Central. Reference lists from articles that fulfilled the inclusion criteria in this review were searched for additional relevant articles. The Brazilian Coordination of Higher Education Personnel Improvement Theses Databank was also included. Selection and analysis of the articles were performed independently by two authors of the present literature review. Results: A total of 21 of 98 articles were eligible for inclusion in the review. However, only nine articles performed all the methodology criteria analyzed. Seven of the surveys were carried out in Brazil and two in Thailand. The age of children was 9–14 years. Statistically significant associations between permanent tooth injuries and high economic status were found in four studies. Conclusion: There were few studies correlating traumatic injuries in permanent teeth and socioeconomic indicators and the majority found no such association. It is suggested that the association between traumatic dental injuries and socioeconomic factors may be related to the indicators used, considering differences in their individual components. Furthermore, the heterogeneity of the methodologies hinders the comparison of the studies.
Immunoexpression of MMPs‐1, ‐2, and ‐9 in ameloblastoma and odontogenic adenomatoid tumor
Authors: Ribeiro BF , Iglesias DPP , Nascimento GJF , Galvão HC , Medeiros AMC , Freitas RA
Published: June 2009

Objective:  The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the expression of metalloproteinases‐1, ‐2, and ‐9 in solid ameloblastoma and adenomatoid odontogenic tumor.

Methods:  A total of 20 cases of solid ameloblastoma and 10 cases of adenomatoid odontogenic tumors were selected and immunohistochemically assessed. Metalloproteinases‐1, ‐2, and ‐9 immunoexpression and their distribution pattern were noted and semiquantitatively scored. The scores obtained were statistically analyzed.

Results:  Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐1 showed a predominant expression in both tumors and was found in stroma and parenchyma. For MMP‐2, there was a varied expression, with 80% and 60% of immunoreactive tumor cells in ameloblastoma and adenomatoid odontogenic tumor respectively. Regarding stromal cells, 65% of ameloblastomas and 80% of adenomatoid odontogenic tumors showed positivity. There was immunoexpression of the MMP‐9 in parenchymal and stromal cells in all cases of both tumors analyzed. A statistically significant difference in the expression of MMP‐1 in relation to the expression of MMP‐2 and ‐9 in ameloblastomas (P < 0.001) was observed.

Conclusion:  The results suggest that these metalloproteinases are related to growth and progression of tumors analyzed, and particularly in ameloblastoma, its highest aggressiveness may be, in part, a result of the active participation of the stromal cells and their products, such as the MMPs studied.
Investigation of 17 candidate genes for personality traits confirms effects of the HTR2A gene on novelty seeking
Authors: Heck A. , Lieb R. , Ellgas A. , Pfister H. , Lucae S. , Roeske D. , Pütz B. , Müller‐Myhsok B. , Uhr M. , Holsboer F. , Ising M.
Published: June 2009

Genes involved in serotonergic and dopaminergic neurotransmission have been hypothesized to affect different aspects of personality, but findings from genetic association studies did not provide conclusive results so far. In previous studies, however, only one or a few polymorphisms within single genes were investigated neglecting the possibility that the genetic associations might be more complex comprising several genes or gene regions. To overcome this limitation, we performed an extended genetic association study analyzing 17 serotonergic (SLC6A4, HTR1A, HTR1B, HTR2A, HTR2C, HTR3A, HTR6, MAOA, TPH1, TPH2) and dopaminergic genes (SLC6A3, DRD2, DRD3, DRD4, COMT, MAOA, TH, DBH), which have been previously reported to be implicated with personality traits.

One hundred and ninety‐five single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within these genes were genotyped with the Illumina BeadChip technology (HumanHap300, Human‐1) in a sample of 366 mentally healthy Caucasians. Additionally, we tried to replicate our results in an independent sample of further 335 Caucasians. Personality traits in both samples were assessed with the German version of Cloninger's Tridimensional Personality Questionnaire.

From 30 SNPs showing associations at a nominal level of significance, two intronic SNPs, rs2770296 and rs927544, both located in the HTR2A gene, withstood correction for multiple testing. These SNPs were associated with the personality trait novelty seeking. The effect of rs927544 could be replicated for the novelty seeking subscale extravagance, and the same SNP was also associated with extravagance inthe combined samples.

Our results show that HTR2A polymorphisms modulate facets of novelty seeking behaviour in healthy adults suggesting that serotonergic neurotransmission is involved in this phenotype.
Dyskeratosis congenita: clinical report and review of the literature
Authors: Baran I , Nalcaci R , Kocak M
Published: June 2009

Abstract:  Dyskeratosis congenita (DKC) is an inherited disorder that usually presents in males, consisting of the triad of leukoplakia of the mucous membranes, nails dystrophy and skin pigmentation. Oral and dental abnormalities may also be present. Most cases are X‐linked autosomal dominant, but recessive forms have also been reported. This study describes herein a case in which the classic triad of signs was present, along with the development of leukoplakia in the buccal mucosa. Our patient, a 25‐year‐old man, presented with several characteristic systemic features of this condition, together with the following oral features: hypodontia, delayed dental eruption, short blunt roots, extensive caries, gingival inflammation and bleeding, loss of alveolar bone and buccal mucosa with leukoplakia and irregular ulcers. The patient was given full preventive care. The primary teeth were extracted under local anaesthesia. After establishing optimal oral health, oral hygiene instructions were given to the patient and he was rehabilitated with fixed and removable partial denture. Prosthetic treatments were carried out after establishing optimal oral health. This treatment option appears beneficial in this patient, resulting in rehabilitation of occlusion and less mechanical irritation to the oral mucosa.
Depressive symptoms in relation to periodontal health in a Jordanian sample
Authors: Ababneh KT , Al Shaar MBA , Taani DQ
Published: June 2009

Abstract:  Objectives: This cross‐sectional study examines the relationship of depression symptoms to periodontal diseases and decayed (D), missing (M) and filled teeth (FT) in a sample of the Jordanian population. Methods: Subjects escorting dental patients attending two dental hospitals in North Jordan were included. Each subject received full periodontal examination, including probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment level (CAL), gingival index (GI) and plaque index (PI). The numbers of M, D and F teeth were also recorded. The Zung Self‐rating Depression Scale was used to determine susceptibility to depression. Results: The frequency of high susceptibility to depression among periodontitis‐free subjects and those with periodontitis was found to be 48% and 50% respectively. There was no statistically significant association between susceptibility to depression symptoms and periodontal parameters, including PPD, CAL, PI and GI (P > 0.05). However, subjects with low susceptibility to depression had significantly more FT than subjects highly susceptible to depression. Conclusions: High susceptibility to depression does not play a significant role in the aetiology and severity of periodontitis in the population studied.
How clean is the toothbrush that cleans your tooth?
Authors: Ankola AV , Hebbal M , Eshwar S
Published: June 2009

Abstract:  Until recently, little attention has been directed towards the role the toothbrush may play in human health, even though a report of toothbrush as a significant factor in the infection appeared in 1920. It is common knowledge that the human mouth harbours a wide variety of microorganisms, some of which, at any given time, can be assumed to be potential pathogens. This was not known when toothbrushes were originally designed, yet the common toothbrush has been used in basically the same form for about 200 years. In today’s world of organ transplantation and alteration of the immune system, it is important to consider the toothbrush as a source of potential pathogens. Given the fact that very often people will traumatize themselves with their toothbrush, this trauma may become a potential portal of entry for organisms. In this article, we have attempted to demonstrate the importance of toothbrush disinfection, given tips on home toothbrush care and hope to motivate the dentists to educate the patients on the importance of toothbrush disinfection.
Successful treatment of persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn with bosentan
Authors: Nakwan N , Choksuchat D , Saksawad R , Thammachote P , Nakwan N
Published: June 2009

The sophisticated and expensive treatment modalities of persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN), such as nitric oxide, are limited in developing countries. Alternative (less expensive) treatments are being sought and bosentan, an oral dual endothelin‐1 receptor antagonist, may be an option for the treatment of PPHN. We report our experience of using bosentan in a neonate with severe PPHN.

Conclusion:  Bosentan may be a useful adjuvant therapy in neonates with PPHN, providing significant improvement in oxygenation, and thus may be particularly useful in the treatment of PPHN in countries with limited resources.
Persistence of resprouting species after fire in natural and post‐mine restored shrublands in southwestern Australia
Authors: Herath D.N. , Lamont B.B.
Published: June 2009

Questions: Is post‐fire persistence of resprouting species lower in restored sites, and is survival related to lignotuber size?

Location: Southwestern Australia, Eneabba, 300 km north of Perth.

Methods: Post‐fire persistence of 10 lignotuberous shrub species was compared between three sites restored 8–24 years ago after mineral‐sand mining and three surrounding natural shrubland sites (8–24 years since previous fire).

Results: Overall persistence of species was 11–93% in restored sites (mean 52%) and 79–100% in natural sites (mean 96%). Persistence increased with time since rehabilitation for five species with <25% of individuals in three species surviving in the youngest stand. For equivalent crown size, average lignotuber circumferences were 50% smaller at restored sites and this probably accounted for their higher post‐fire mortality. Apart from differences in the age of plants, restored sites had lower soil penetrability than natural sites, which may have restricted rootstock development. A tradeoff favoring a higher crown volume to lignotuber size ratio was apparent in nine of the ten species with greater crown volumes (by 37%) and smaller lignotubers (by 36%) in restored sites. Two resprouting species for which crown seed store was quantified had much higher fecundity in restored sites.

Conclusions: Fires reduced resprouter persistence in restored sites owing to poor development/insufficient size of lignotubers. Further management after fires is required, including application of resprouter seeds/seedlings on restored topsoil, transplanting adult resprouters (where viable) from natural areas ahead of the mining front. Low intensity/patchy fires are recommended on long unburnt sites. Resprouter survival would have likely been much greater in the first place if a deeper sandy soil profile was rehabilitated, thereby providing a more suitable medium for lignotuber development.
Vertical distribution of Hymenophyllaceae species among host tree microhabitats in a temperate rain forest in Southern Chile
Authors: Parra Maria J. , Acuña Karina , Corcuera Luís J. , Saldaña Alfredo
Published: June 2009

Question: Are differences in microhabitat preferences of co‐occurring epiphytic Hymenophyllaceae species (filmy ferns) correlated with differences in ecophysiological responses to light availability and humidity in the host tree?

Location: The Andean foothills in south‐central Chile.

Methods: We evaluated the distribution pattern of nine filmy fern species in microhabitats that differ in light availability and humidity in four host tree species. A DCA was developed to assess Hymenophyllaceae species microhabitat preference in terms of canopy openness (CO) and relative humidity. We assessed whether differences in chlorophyll content, maximum photochemical efficiency (Fv/Fm), photosynthetic capacity (Amax), evapotranspiration (E) and instantaneous water use efficiency (WUE) are consistent with any pattern.

Results: CO and relative humidity differed significantly with height in the host trees. While CO increased with height in a host tree, relative humidity decreased. DCA analysis showed that filmy fern species distribution within and among trees was mainly explained by the relative humidity of the microhabitat. Chlorophyll content, chlorophyll a/b ratio, Amax and E differed significantly among filmy fern species. Amax and E were correlated with axis 1 scores from the DCA analysis.

Conclusions: The vertical distribution and abundance of filmy fern species in Chilean temperate rain forest seems to be closely related to the different microhabitats offered by host trees. This pattern may reflect interspecific differences in ecophysiological traits related both to light availability and humidity. Our results suggest that humidity is the main environmental factor driving functional responses and habitat preferences of these filmy fern species.
Explaining patterns of primary production from individual level traits
Authors: Leoni E. , Altesor A. , Paruelo J.M.
Published: June 2009

Question: Do species traits explain differences in productivity in grazed and ungrazed plots?

Location: Río de la Plata grasslands, Uruguay (31°54′S, 58°15′W).

Methods: In a greenhouse experiment, we measured the relative growth rate (RGR) of grasses with contrasting responses to grazing (increasers and decreasers). We performed six harvests at weekly intervals in order to calculate the RGR and assess 12 plant traits. We compared the RGR between increaser and decreaser species after 2 and 5 weeks using t‐tests. Linear and potential regression models were fitted to time versus natural logarithm of total dry biomass relationships. The RGR temporal trajectories of increaser and decreaser species were obtained from the derivatives of the best‐fit functions. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to sort species according to their traits.

Results: The RGR of decreaser grasses was higher than that of increasers at the second week, while at the fifth week the opposite was observed. The RGR of decreasers dropped through time, while the RGR of increaser species was constant. The PCA separated increaser from decreaser species. The attributes related to increaser species were: high specific leaf area, tillering rate, green leaf rate, total leaf number, root weight ratio and leaf weight ratio; while those associated with decreaser species were: high dead biomass, senescence rate, reproductive biomass, leaf elongation rate and total biomass.

Conclusions: Traits possessed by decreasers reduce light availability and increase the reproductive investment, explaining the drop in RGR. Specific differences in RGR seem to scale up to the ecosystem level and would explain the pattern in aboveground net primary production observed in the field under contrasting grazing regimes.
Sailing Close to the Statistics
Authors: Wolstenholme Linda
Published: June 2009

Summer is here, and thousands of weekend sailors in hundreds of different designs of boats take to the water and race. Linda Wolstenholme tells us how to make yacht races fair.
What Have Private Schools Done for (Some of) Us?
Authors: Green Francis , Machin Stephen , Murphy Richard , Zhu Yu
Published: June 2009

Many parents in Britain make huge financial sacrifices to send their children to private schools. Are those sacrifices worthwhile? What return, if any, do they get? Do their children end up in better careers, earning more, than if they have been educated at the expense of the state? Francis Green, Stephen Machin, Richard Murphy and Yu Zhu examine who exactly benefits from the privileges of the Old School Tie.
The Supermarkets and the Small Shop: Is there a Real Choice?
Authors: Wheeler Frederick
Published: June 2009

Have supermarkets driven out the small shopkeeper? Are high-streets dying? Has supermarket power doomed the convenience store? Do local planning decisions restrict high-street competition? Can only the giants survive? Frederick Wheeler explains how the Competition Commission tries to give buyers a choice.
Avalanche! Coming! Now! Close to the Borders of Unpredictability
Authors: Ramos Osvanny
Published: June 2009

Earthquakes, evolution, avalanches—even something as simple as grains of sand tumbling down a pile: so many phenomena of nature seem to resist prediction. We still cannot tell when geological stresses will release themselves in a major quake or when the last extra grain of sand will make half the heap avalanche down. But have statisticians been looking in the wrong place? Or are these critical phenomena really inherently unpredictable? They are close to the borders, but still in predictable land, says Osvanny Ramos, one of the authors of an experiment to prove it.
The Megalithic Story of Professor Alexander Thom
Authors: Sixsmith Edmund
Published: June 2009

Fifty years ago Alexander Thom, engineer, master surveyor and statistician, published a famous paper in a Royal Statistical Society journal and started a controversy. Our ancient ancestors, he said, had used a standard and astonishingly accurate measurement, the megalithic yard, to construct Stonehenge and hundreds of other megalithic monuments, all across northern Europe, and to align them as lunar observatories. Edmund Sixsmith rakes the ashes of Thom's intriguing claims.
A Systematic Review of the Effectiveness of Communication Interventions for Health Care Providers Caring for Patients in Residential Care Settings
Authors: McGilton Katherine S. , Boscart Veronique , Fox Mary , Sidani Souraya , Rochon Elizabeth , Sorin‐Peters Riva
Published: June 2009

Objectives:This systematic review will describe the theoretical grounding, components, duration, mode of delivery, and outcomes of communication interventions for health care providers delivering care in residential care settings and will evaluate the effectiveness of these interventions.

Methods:We conducted a comprehensive literature search of multiple databases published from January 1985 to the first week of December 2007, supplemented by a hand search of the references in all relevant articles, to find studies that met the inclusion criteria. Intervention details were extracted, and the studies' validity was evaluated independently by two researchers using a standardized data collection form based onCooper and Hedges' (1994)approach to quality assessment.

Results:Of the six studies that met the inclusion criteria (three randomized controlled trials, three quasi‐experimental designs), three used a theoretical framework to guide intervention design. Across the six studies, the most commonly used components were (1) cognitive (to teach staff about communication), (2) behavioral (including practice at the bedside), and (3) psychological (involving individualized feedback). Despite the studies' variability in methodological quality, their results indicated that communication interventions have a positive effect on staffs' knowledge and communication skills and on residents' agitation and challenging behaviors. However, none of the studies provided sufficient information on the duration of the intervention and on determining which interventions were most effective. This made it difficult to draw conclusions about the effectiveness of the interventions' different components.

Conclusion:Although communication training has been shown to have positive effects on staffs' communication knowledge and skills as well as on resident outcomes, future controlled intervention research is needed to assess the effectiveness of individual intervention components.
Lysosomal localization of GLUT8 in the testis – the EXXXLL motif of GLUT8 is sufficient for its intracellular sorting via AP1‐ and AP2‐mediated interaction
Authors: Diril Muhammed Kasim , Schmidt Stefan , Krauß Michael , Gawlik Verena , Joost Hans‐Georg , Schürmann Annette , Haucke Volker , Augustin Robert
Published: June 2009

The class III sugar transport facilitator GLUT8 co‐localizes with the lysosomal protein LAMP1 in heterologous expression systems. GLUT8 carries a [D/E]XXXL[L/I]‐type dileucine sorting signal that has been postulated to retain the protein in an endosomal/lysosomal compartment via interactions with clathrin adaptor protein (AP) complexes. However, contradictory findings have been described regarding the subcellular localization of the endogenous GLUT8 and the adaptor proteins that interact with its dileucine motif. Here we demonstrate that endogenous GLUT8 is localized in a late endosomal/lysosomal compartment of spermatocytes and spermatids, and that the adaptor complexes AP1 and AP2, but not AP3 or AP4, interact with its N‐terminal intracellular domain (NICD). In addition, fusion of the GLUT8 NICD to the tailless lumenal domain of the IL‐2 receptor alpha chain (TAC) protein (interleukin‐2 receptor α chain) targeted the protein to intracellular membranes, indicating that its N‐terminal dileucine signal is sufficient for endosomal/lysosomal targeting of the transporter. The localization and targeting of GLUT8 show striking similarities to sorting mechanisms reported for lysosomal proteins. Therefore, we suggest a potential role for GLUT8 in the so far unexplored substrate transport across intracellular membranes.

Structured digital abstract

MINT‐7035377: GLUT8 (uniprotkb:Q9JIF3) physically interacts (MI:0915) with AP2 (uniprotkb:P62944) by pull down (MI:0096)

MINT‐7035218: GLUT8 (uniprotkb:Q9JIF3) physically interacts (MI:0915) with AP1 (uniprotkb:O43747) by pull down (MI:0096)

MINT‐7035273: GLUT8 (uniprotkb:Q9JIF3) physically interacts (MI:0915) with AP1 (uniprotkb:P22892) by pull down (MI:0096)

MINT‐7035235: GLUT8 (uniprotkb:Q9JIF3) physically interacts (MI:0915) with AP1 (uniprotkb:Q8R525) by pull down (MI:0096)

MINT‐7035360: GLUT8 (uniprotkb:Q9JIF3) physically interacts (MI:0915) with AP2 (uniprotkb:Q9DBG3) by pull down (MI:0096)

MINT‐7035789, MINT‐7035807: lamp1 (uniprotkb:P11438) and GLUT8 (uniprotkb:Q9JIF3) colocalize (MI:0403) by fluorescence microscopy (MI:0416)

MINT‐7039929, MINT‐7039945: lamp2 (uniprotkb:P17047) and GLUT8 (uniprotkb:Q9JIF3) colocalize (MI:0403) by fluorescence microscopy (MI:0416)
Functional association of human Ki‐1/57 with pre‐mRNA splicing events
Authors: Bressan Gustavo C. , Quaresma Alexandre J. C. , Moraes Eduardo C. , Manfiolli Adriana O. , Passos Dario O. , Gomes Marcelo D. , Kobarg Jörg
Published: June 2009

The cytoplasmic and nuclear protein Ki‐1/57 was first identified in malignant cells from Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Despite studies showing its phosphorylation, arginine methylation, and interaction with several regulatory proteins, the functional role of Ki‐1/57 in human cells remains to be determined. Here, we investigated the relationship of Ki‐1/57 with RNA functions. Through immunoprecipitation assays, we verified the association of Ki‐1/57 with the endogenous splicing proteins hnRNPQ and SFRS9 in HeLa cell extracts. We also found that recombinant Ki‐1/57 was able to bind to a poly‐U RNA probe in electrophoretic mobility shift assays. In a classic splicing test, we showed that Ki‐1/57 can modify the splicing site selection of the adenoviral E1A minigene in a dose‐dependent manner. Further confocal and fluorescence microscopy analysis revealed the localization of enhanced green fluorescent protein–Ki‐1/57 to nuclear bodies involved in RNA processing and or small nuclear ribonucleoprotein assembly, depending on the cellular methylation status and its N‐terminal region. In summary, our findings suggest that Ki‐1/57 is probably involved in cellular events related to RNA functions, such as pre‐mRNA splicing.

Structured digital abstract

MINT‐7041074: Ki‐1/57 (uniprotkb:Q5JVS0) physically interacts (MI:0915) with SF2P32 (uniprotkb:Q07021) by two hybrid (MI:0018)

MINT‐7041232: Ki‐1/57 (uniprotkb:Q5JVS0) physically interacts (MI:0915) with SFRS9 (uniprotkb:Q13242) by pull down (MI:0096)

MINT‐7041203: P80‐Coilin (uniprotkb:P38432) and Ki‐1/57 (uniprotkb:Q5JVS0) colocalize (MI:0403) by fluorescence microscopy (MI:0416)

MINT‐7041217: SMN (uniprotkb:Q16637) and Ki‐1/57 (uniprotkb:Q5JVS0) colocalize (MI:0403) by fluorescence microscopy (MI:0416)

MINT‐7041189: SC‐35 (uniprotkb:Q01130) and Ki‐1/57 (uniprotkb:Q5JVS0) colocalize (MI:0403) by fluorescence microscopy (MI:0416)

MINT‐7041169: NPM (uniprotkb:P06748) and Ki‐1/57 (uniprotkb:Q5JVS0) colocalize (MI:0403) by fluorescence microscopy (MI:0416)

MINT‐7041249: Ki‐1/57 (uniprotkb:Q5JVS0) physically interacts (MI:0915) with SFRS9 (uniprotkb:O60506) by pull down (MI:0096)

MINT‐7041065: Ki‐1/57 (uniprotkb:Q5JVS0) physically interacts (MI:0915) with SFRS9 (uniprotkb:Q13242) by two hybrid (MI:0018)

MINT‐7041069: Ki‐1/57 (uniprotkb:Q5JVS0) physically interacts (MI:0915) with YB1 (uniprotkb:P67809) by two hybrid (MI:0018)

MINT‐7041079: Ki‐1/57 (uniprotkb:Q5JVS0) physically interacts (MI:0915) with HNRPQ (uniprotkb:O60506) by two hybrid (MI:0018)

MINT‐7041087: Ki‐1/57 (uniprotkb:Q5JVS0) physically interacts (MI:0218) with HNRPQ3 (uniprotkb:O60506‐1), HNRPQ2 (uniprotkb:O60506‐2) and HNRPQ‐1 (uniprotkb:O60506‐3) by anti bait coimmunoprecipitation (MI:0006)
Sin3 is involved in cell size control at Start in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Stephan Octavian , Koch Christian
Published: June 2009

Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells control their cell size at a point in late G1 called Start. Here, we describe a negative role for the Sin3/Rpd3 histone deacetylase complex in the regulation of cell size at Start. Initiation of G1/S‐specific transcription of CLN1, CLN2 and PCL1 in a sin3Δ strain occurs at a reduced cell size compared with a wild‐type strain. In addition, inactivation of the transcriptional regulator SIN3 partially suppressed a cln3Δ mutant, causing sin3Δcln3Δ double mutants to start the cell cycle at wild‐type size. Chromatin immunoprecipitation results demonstrate that Sin3 and Rpd3 are recruited to promoters of SBF (Swi4/Swi6)‐regulated genes, and reveal that binding of Sin3 to SBF‐specific promoters is cell‐cycle regulated. We observe that transcriptional repression of SBF‐dependent genes in early G1 coincides with the recruitment of Sin3 to specific promoters, whereas binding of Sin3 is abolished from Swi4/Swi6‐regulated promoters when transcription is activated at the G1 to S phase transition. We conclude that the Sin3/Rpd3 histone deacetylase complex helps to prevent premature activation of the S phase in daughter cells.