bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of (Mg,Si)Al2O4 Spinel from Aluminum Dross
Authors: Hashishin Takeshi , Kodera Yasuhiro , Yamamoto Takeshi , Ohyanagi Manshi , Munir Zuhair A.
Published: August 2009

The spinel (Mg,Si)Al2O4 was synthesized from aluminum dross using an induction synthesis method. X‐ray diffraction analyses on products formed at different temperatures provided an understanding of the formation mechanism of the spinel. After removal of soluble components, the induction heating of the dross resulted first in the oxidation of some of the AlN component and the subsequent formation of the spinel by the following reaction: xSiO2+ (1−x)MgO + [1−(x/3)]Al2O3+ (2x/3)AlN = (Mg1−x,Six)Al2O4+ (x/3)N2(g).
Morphology Change of Undoped and Sulfate‐Ion‐Doped Yttria Powders during Firing
Authors: Takayasu Ikegami , Li Ji‐Guang , Sakaguchi Isao , Hirota Ken
Published: August 2009

Morphologic changes that occurred during firing in undoped and sulfate‐ion‐doped yttria powders were examined in the present study. Clear scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of uncoated insulators were achieved and charging of electrons was avoided by observing small samples, throughout which most of the electrons of the incident beam penetrated. SEM observation and firing of the samples were repeated several times. Searching the observed areas or particles started at low magnification, with the aid of photographs taken earlier. The sulfate‐ion dopant inhibited volume diffusion and/or grain‐boundary diffusion, and then particle growth of the sulfate‐ion‐doped yttria proceeded by surface diffusion or evaporation–condensation along with pore growth, which resulted in collapse of the agglomerates of primary particles. Although most of the other particles exhibited slight pore growth along with particle growth at temperatures as low as 800°C, a hardening of the agglomerated particles, because of pore elimination by volume diffusion and/or grain‐boundary diffusion, occurred at temperatures >850°C.
Dynamics of Hollow and Solid Alumina Particle Formation in Spray Flames
Authors: Tani Takao , Takatori Kazumasa , Pratsinis Sotiris E.
Published: August 2009

Thermophoretic sampling (TS) of the aerosol was conducted to manifest the formation of hollow and solid alumina particles in spray flames. The collected particles were investigated by transmission electron microscopy. Hollow particles with a thin shell (e.g., 10 nm) were formed from the aluminum nitrate precursor emulsion at less than 4‐cm flame height. Hollow particles maintained their shapes in the flame using air as dispersion/oxidant gas, whereas hollow‐to‐solid restructuring of the particles took place in the flame using oxygen. With oxygen, nanoparticles were formed in the gas phase from the aluminum butoxide/2‐propanol precursor solution only, whereas gas‐phase reaction was hindered, forming large particles from the aluminum nitrate/2‐propanol precursor solution.
Nanograined Ferroelectric Ceramics Prepared by High‐Pressure Densification Technique
Authors: Mesquita Alexandre , Bernardi Maria Inês B. , Mastelaro Valmor R. , Lente Manuel H. , Eiras José A. , Gallas Marcia R. , Costa Tania. M. H.
Published: August 2009

For the first time, nanograined Pb1−1.5xLaxTiO3 ferroelectric ceramics, with x=0.2, were produced by a process based on a high‐pressure densification technique (HPD) that eliminates the need of high‐temperature sintering. Our results showed the production of workable dense ceramics with average grain size around 100 nm and free from secondary phase. Regarding the dielectric measurements, the samples showed satisfactory dielectric losses as well as remarkable diffusivity in the dielectric curves. Moreover, ferroelectric hysteresis measurements showed that samples produced by the HPD technique can stand high electric fields necessary to switch the polarization and thus to induce piezoelectric activity. Our results demonstrated clearly the viability of the proposed method to produce nanograined ferroelectric bulk ceramics, then opening the possibility of developing new technologies.
An in vitro study of non‐axial forces upon the retention of an O‐ring attachment
Authors: Rodrigues Renata Cristina Silveira , Faria Adriana Cláudia Lapria , Macedo Ana Paula , Sartori Ivete Aparecida de Mattias , De Mattos Maria da Gloria Chiarello , Ribeiro Ricardo Faria
Published: August 2009

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the retention force of an O‐ring attachment system in different inclinations to the ideal path of insertion, using devices to compensate angulations.

Material and methods: Two implants were inserted into an aluminum base, and ball attachments were screwed to implants. Cylinders with O‐rings were placed on ball attachments and connected to the test device using positioners to compensate implant angulations (0°, 7°, and 14°). Plexiglass bases were used to simulate implant angulations. The base and the test device were positioned in a testing apparatus, which simulated insertion/removal of an overdenture. A total of 2900 cycles, simulating 2 years of overdenture use, were performed and 36 O‐rings were tested. The force required for each cycle was recorded with computer software. Longitudinal sections of ball attachment–positioner–cylinder with O‐rings of each angulation were obtained to analyze the relationship among them, and O‐ring sections tested in each angulation were compared with an unused counterpart. A mixed linear model was used to analyze the data, and the comparison was performed by orthogonal contrasts (α=0.05).

Results: At 0°, the retention force decreased significantly over time, and the retention force was significantly different in all comparisons, except from 12 to 18 months. When the implants were positioned at 7°, the retention force was statistically different at 0 and 24 months. At 14°, significant differences were found from 6 and 12 to 24 months.

Conclusions: Within the limitations of this study, it was concluded that O‐rings for implant/attachments perpendicular to the occlusal plane were adequately retentive over the first year and that the retentive capacity of O‐ring was affected by implant inclinations despite the proposed positioners.
Vertical ridge augmentation of the atrophic posterior mandible with interpositional bloc grafts: bone from the iliac crest vs. bovine anorganic bone. Clinical and histological results up to one year after loading from a randomized‐controlled clinical trial
Authors: Felice Pietro , Marchetti Claudio , Iezzi Giovanna , Piattelli Adriano , Worthington Helen , Pellegrino Gerardo , Esposito Marco
Published: August 2009

Objectives: To compare two different techniques for vertical bone augmentation of the posterior mandible: bone blocs from the iliac crest vs. anorganic bovine bone blocs used as inlays.

Materials and methods: Ten partially edentulous patients having 5–7 mm of residual crestal height above the mandibular canal had their posterior mandibles randomly allocated to both interventions. After 4 months implants were inserted, and after 4 months, provisional prostheses were placed. Definitive prostheses were delivered after 4 months. Histomorphometry of samples trephined at implant placement, prosthesis and implant failures, any complication after loading and peri‐implant marginal bone‐level changes were assessed by masked assessors. All patients were followed up to 1 year after loading.

Results: Four months after bone augmentation, there was statistically significant more residual graft (between 10% and 13%) in the Bio‐Oss group. There were no statistically significant differences in failures and complications. Two implants could not be placed in one patient augmented with autogenous bone because the graft failed whereas one implant and its prosthesis of the Bio‐Oss group failed after loading. After implant loading only one complication (peri‐implantitis) occurred at one implant of the autogenous bone group. In 16 months (from implant placement to 1 year after loading), both groups lost statistically significant amounts of peri‐implant marginal bone: 0.82 mm in the autogenous bone group and 0.59 mm in the Bio‐Oss group; however, there were no statistically significant differences between the groups.

Conclusions: Both procedures achieved good results, but the use of bovine blocs was less invasive and may be preferable than harvesting bone from the iliac crest.
FCRL2 mRNA expression is inversely associated with clinical progression in chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Nückel Holger , Collins Crista H. , Frey Ulrich H. , Sellmann Ludger , Dürig Jan , Siffert Winfried , Dührsen Ulrich
Published: August 2009

Fc receptor‐like 2 (FCRL2) is highly expressed on B‐cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B‐CLL) cells and could possibly influence disease pathogenesis. Therefore, we investigated FCRL2 mRNA expression in a large cohort with 152 CLL patients in order to assess its role in risk prediction in B‐CLL. FCRL2 mRNA expression was found to be expressed at considerably higher levels in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of B‐CLL patients compared to controls (range 1.35‐ to 210‐fold upregulation; P < 0.0001) and cells of other hematological diseases. Patients with high FCRL2 expression (according to ROC‐analysis) had a significantly longer treatment‐free survival (TFS) and overall survival (OS) than patients with low FCRL2 expression (median TFS: 119 vs. 34 months, P < 0.0001; median OS: 321 months vs. not reached, P = 0.009). Univariate comparisons found that FCRL2 expression was weakly associated with IGHV mutation status (P = 0.05), CD38 status (P < 0.0001) and ZAP‐70 status (P < 0.0001). Furthermore, we show that the combination of FCRL2 with ZAP70‐, CD38‐ or IGHV‐status could further significantly refine the prognostic information provided by either of the factors alone in TFS and OS. In multivariate analysis low FCRL2 expression was a significant independent prognostic factor (HR 2.4; P = 0.005). Here we demonstrate that the level of FCRL2 expression is correlated with prognosis in B‐CLL.
The SMN Protein is a Key Regulator of Nuclear Architecture in Differentiating Neuroblastoma Cells
Authors: Clelland Allyson K. , Kinnear Nicholas P. , Oram Lisa , Burza Julie , Sleeman Judith E.
Published: August 2009

The cell nucleus contains two closely related structures, Cajal bodies (CBs) and gems. CBs are the first site of accumulation of newly assembled splicing snRNPs (small nuclear ribonucleoproteins) following their import into the nucleus, before they form their steady‐state localization in nuclear splicing speckles. Gems are the nuclear site of accumulation of survival motor neurons (SMNs), an insufficiency of which leads to the inherited neurodegenerative condition, spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). SMN is required in the cytoplasm for the addition of core, Sm, proteins to new snRNPs and is believed to accompany snRNPs to the CB. In most cell lines, gems are indistinguishable from CBs, although the structures are often separate in vivo. The relationship between CBs and gems is not fully understood, but there is evidence that symmetrical dimethylation of arginine residues in the CB protein coilin brings them together in HeLa cells. During neuronal differentiation of the human neuroblastoma cell line SH‐SY5Y, CBs and gems increase their colocalization, mimicking changes seen during foetal development. This does not result from alterations in the methylation of coilin, but from increased levels of SMN. Expression of exogenous SMN results in an increased efficiency of snRNP transport to nuclear speckles. This suggests different mechanisms are present in different cell types and in vivo that may be significant for the tissue‐specific pathology of SMA.
Psychological treatments for functional non-epileptic attacks: a systematic review
Authors: Gaynor Danielle , Cock Hannah , Agrawal Niruj
Published: August 2009

Objective:

There is a lack of clarity about the most useful intervention for functional non-epileptic attacks (FNEA). Outcomes for this condition remain often poor, with considerable personal, social and economic impact. In order to guide clinical practice and future research in this area, we have performed a systematic review of the published literature on the psychological treatment of FNEA.

Methods:

A comprehensive literature search was carried out using key words: non-epileptic seizures; psychogenic seizures; psychogenic non-epileptic seizures; pseudoseizures; funny turns; non-epileptic attack; hysterical seizures; and pseudoepileptic. Studies specifically looking at psychological treatment of FNEA were identified. Studies of patients also having comorbid organic seizure disorders were excluded.

Results:

17 studies that met the inclusion criteria were identified. A broad variety of psychological interventions for FNEA has been investigated. Only one randomised controlled trial has been completed to date. Existing evidence appears to suggest that various psychological treatments, including presenting the diagnosis, psychoeducation, behavioural therapies and mixed modality treatments, may be effective.

Conclusion:

While a range of psychological treatments may be beneficial for this patient group, we do not have clear evidence to suggest which treatment is most efficacious. Specific elements of presenting the diagnosis and psychoeducation may be required in addition to traditional cognitive behavioural therapeutic approaches. Large, methodologically robust studies are urgently required to establish the most effective form of treatment.
Bridging the gap between adult and paediatric outcomes in HIV‐1 vertically infected children: a single‐centre comparison with adult data
Authors: Monpoux F , Puglièse P , Berthier F , Cottalorda J , Pradier C
Published: August 2009

Prognosis of HIV‐1 infection dramatically improved during the last decade. Meanwhile, treatment‐induced virological success has always been different in adult and children patients.

Aim:  To compare 10 years of follow up in HIV‐1 vertically infected children and adult patients.

Methods:  Monocentric retrospective longitudinal analysis of vertically HIV‐1‐infected children and adult patients followed in the Nice University Hospital between 1999 and 2008. Immunological, virological and antiretroviral treatment data were recorded.

Results:  Forty children and 1752 adult patients were included. Between 1996 and 2008, the percentage of children receiving HAART increased from 3.2% to 91%. Mean CD4% in the paediatric group remained stable between 29 ± 8.1% in 1998 and 30 ± 9.4% in 2008. Mean adult CD4‐cell count significantly increased from 410 in 1998 to 556 cells/mL in 2008. Logistic regression analysis showed that the children‐to‐adult difference for indetectability (HIV PCR‐RNA below 400 copies/mL) was significant (p < 0.0001) with an odds ratio of 0.61 (CI95th: 0.52–0.72). Year‐to‐patient interaction was also significant with a decreasing divergence over time (p: 0.038).

Conclusion:  Nowadays as in adult patients, the control of HIV‐1 replication is achieved in nearly eight of 10 children and the percentage of patients with severe immunodeficiency dramatically decreased compared with the mid 1990s.
Full Mouth Restoration on Dental Implants Utilizing Titanium Laser‐Welded Frameworks
Authors: SCHNEIDER ROBERT
Published: August 2009

In today's dental literature, most frequently, esthetics are addressed with fixed restorations. This article will illustrate the opportunity to provide our patients with very good esthetic outcomes with a hopeless dentition utilizing dental implants, laser‐welded titanium components, and characterized acrylic resin prostheses. The definitive prostheses provide excellent facial support, phonetics, esthetics, smile line, and function. The steps in such a treatment will be presented from the clinical to dental laboratory procedures.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Incorporating newer technology into our patient treatment plans, which increasingly includes dental implants, may allow more time‐efficient, esthetic, predictable, and reliable treatment. Laser‐welded titanium frameworks offer many advantages for the patient, clinician, and dental technician, which are illustrated.
Initial Repair Bond Strength of a Nano‐filled Hybrid Resin: Effect of Surface Treatments and Bonding Agents
Authors: YESILYURT CEMAL , KUSGOZ ADEM , BAYRAM MEHMET , ULKER MUSTAFA
Published: August 2009

Background:  The optimal surface treatment is an important factor in repairing failed restorations.

Purpose:  The aim of this study was to compare the effect of different surface treatments in combination with bonding agents on the repair of an aged nano‐filled resin composite.

Materials and Methods:  Resin composite disks (N = 180; Filtek Supreme XT, 3M ESPE, St. Paul, MO, USA), 6 mm in diameter and 2 mm in height, were prepared. After accelerated aging of 300 hours in a weathering tester, the specimens were randomly divided into six groups of 30 each, according to the following surface treatment methods: no surface treatment (control group, C), 38% phosphoric acid gel (PA), 9.6% hydrofluoric acid gel (HF), abrasion with sodium bicarbonate particles (SB), aluminum trioxide particle abrasion (AT), and diamond bur (DB). Fresh resin composite was bonded to the treated surfaces with one of two bonding agents (Prime&Bond NT, Dentsply/Caulk, Milford, DE, USA; Clearfil SE Bond, Kuraray Co./J., Morita, Japan). The effect of each surface treatment on the bond strength was determined by a shear bond test. Data were analyzed by two‐way analysis of variance and Tukey's post hoc test (p = 0.05).

Results:  Significant differences were found between the groups, for both surface treatment and bonding agent (p < 0.05). For all surface treatments, the shear bond strengths (SBSs) with Clearfil SE were higher than those with Prime&Bond (p < 0.05). The mean SBS values for the surface treatment groups were, from highest to lowest, 19.3 (DB), 18.7 (AT), 17.4 (SB), 15.2 (HF), 9.2 (C), and 8.8 MPa (PA).

Conclusions:  Surface treatment with DB or AT was more effective than with the other surface treatments tested for the repair of nano‐filled composites. The adhesive used as an intermediate agent is also important in composite repair.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Surface treatment with a diamond bur plus a proper adhesive agent is a simple, efficient, and cost‐effective procedure for enhancing the shear bond strength of a repaired nano‐hybrid resin composite.
INTRAORAL REPAIR OF FRACTURED CERAMIC RESTORATIONS
Authors: Hammond Barry D. , Swift, Jr. Edward J. , Brackett William W.
Published: August 2009

Much of dentistry performed today has an esthetic focus, and subsequently more teeth are being restored with porcelain in the attempt to provide the most natural esthetics possible. Unfortunately, along with an increase in the use of dental porcelains comes an increase in risk for fractures, which at times can require an urgent and expedient solution. This Critical Appraisal reviews four studies to determine which method(s) of repair might yield the most predictable results.
The molecular mechanism underlying the reduction in abdominal fat accumulation by licorice flavonoid oil in high fat diet‐induced obese rats
Authors: HONDA Kazuhisa , KAMISOYAMA Hiroshi , TOMINAGA Yuji , YOKOTA Shinichi , HASEGAWA Shin
Published: August 2009

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has been widely used in traditional medicines, and its flavonoid oil (LFO) decreases abdominal adipose tissue weight in mammals. In the present study, we investigated the molecular mechanisms underlying the decrease in abdominal adipose tissue weight by LFO. LFO significantly decreased the mRNA levels of rate‐limiting enzymes in the hepatic fatty acid synthetic pathway, whereas LFO significantly increased the mRNA levels of a rate‐limiting enzyme in the hepatic fatty acid oxidative pathway. LFO significantly decreased the mRNA levels of sterol regulatory element‐binding protein‐1c (SREBP‐1c) (a transcription factor that promotes hepatic fatty acid synthesis), whereas the mRNA levels of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐α (PPAR‐α) (a transcription factor that promotes hepatic fatty acid oxidation) was significantly increased. All our findings suggest that the decrease in abdominal adipose tissue weight by LFO is mediated by the transcriptional regulation of SREBP‐1c and PPAR‐α in the liver. Thus, we infer that the natural ingredient LFO is a promising candidate for use as a feed additive to reduce abdominal fat accumulation in domestic animals.
An epidemiological survey on pigs showing symptoms of infectious enteric diseases and dyspepsia in Japan
Authors: USHIDA Kazunari , KISHIMOTO Akio , PIAO Shong‐Ji , ITOH Mitsugi , SHIGA Akira , NAKANISHI Nobuo , TSUKAHARA Takamitsu
Published: August 2009

Diarrhea in pigs has the potential to have a serious economic impact on the swine industry. Previously, we suggested that the likely cause of the presence of non‐infectious diarrhea in pigs characterized by lactate accumulation was dyspepsia. In this experiment, the prevalence of enteropathogens and hyper‐lactate accumulation in feces of piglets in 4 distinct growth stages was examined. The feces were collected when veterinarian experts recognized abnormalities in sporadic outbreaks. Prevalence of enteropathogens in diarrheal feces was 100% in fattening pigs (FP), 75% in weaning pigs (WP), 50% in suckling pigs (SP), and 42% in growing pigs (GP). Prevalence of enteropathogens in loose feces was 53% in WP, 50% in SP, 40% in FP, and 28% in GP. Prevalence of hyper‐lactate accumulation in diarrheal feces was 33% in GP, 33% in SP, 25% in WP, and 25% in FP. Prevalence of hyper‐lactate accumulation in loose feces was 40% in GP, 0% in SP, 7% in WP, and 5% in FP. Accordingly, non‐infectious dyspepsia is frequent in growing pigs. In this period, pigs are potentially exposed to needless antimicrobial therapeutic treatments in sporadic cases.
Structure analysis of the flavoredoxin from Desulfovibrio vulgaris Miyazaki F reveals key residues that discriminate the functions and properties of the flavin reductase family
Authors: Shibata Naoki , Ueda Yasufumi , Takeuchi Daisuke , Haruyama Yoshihiro , Kojima Shuichi , Sato Junichi , Niimura Youichi , Kitamura Masaya , Higuchi Yoshiki
Published: August 2009

The crystal structure of flavoredoxin from Desulfovibrio vulgaris Miyazaki F was determined at 1.05 Å resolution and its ferric reductase activity was examined. The aim was to elucidate whether flavoredoxin has structural similarity to ferric reductase and ferric reductase activity, based on the sequence similarity to ferric reductase from Archaeoglobus fulgidus. As expected, flavoredoxin shared a common overall structure with A. fulgidus ferric reductase and displayed weak ferric reductase and flavin reductase activities; however, flavoredoxin contains two FMN molecules per dimer, unlike A. fulgidus ferric reductase, which has only one FMN molecule per dimer. Compared with A. fulgidus ferric reductase, flavoredoxin forms three additional hydrogen bonds and has a significantly smaller solvent‐accessible surface area. These observations explain the higher affinity of flavoredoxin for FMN. Unexpectedly, an electron‐density map indicated the presence of a Mes molecule on the re‐side of the isoalloxazine ring of FMN, and that two zinc ions are bound to the two cysteine residues, Cys39 and Cys40, adjacent to FMN. These two cysteine residues are close to one of the putative ferric ion binding sites of ferric reductase. Based on their structural similarities, we conclude that the corresponding site of ferric reductase is the most plausible site for ferric ion binding. Comparing the structures with related flavin proteins revealed key structural features regarding the discrimination of function (ferric ion or flavin reduction) and a unique electron transport system.
Optimization of d‐amino acid oxidase for low substrate concentrations – towards a cancer enzyme therapy
Authors: Rosini Elena , Pollegioni Loredano , Ghisla Sandro , Orru Roberto , Molla Gianluca
Published: August 2009

d‐Amino acid oxidase (DAAO) has recently become of interest as a biocatalyst for industrial applications and for therapeutic treatments. It has been used in gene‐directed enzyme prodrug therapies, in which its production of H2O2 in tumor cells can be regulated by administration of substrate. This approach is limited by the locally low O2 concentration and the high Km for this substrate. Using the directed evolution approach, one DAAO mutant was identified that has increased activity at low O2 and d‐Ala concentrations and a 10‐fold lower Km for O2. We report on the mechanism of this DAAO variant and on its cytotoxicity towards various mammalian cancer cell lines. The higher activity observed at low O2 and d‐Ala concentrations results from a combination of modifications of specific kinetic steps, each being of small magnitude. These results highlight the potential in vivo applicability of this evolved mutant DAAO for tumor therapy.
Mutagenesis at the α–β interface impairs the cleavage of the dystroglycan precursor
Authors: Sciandra Francesca , Bozzi Manuela , Morlacchi Simona , Galtieri Antonio , Giardina Bruno , Brancaccio Andrea
Published: August 2009

The interaction between α‐dystroglycan (α‐DG) and β‐dystroglycan (β‐DG), the two constituent subunits of the adhesion complex dystroglycan, is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the dystrophin–glycoprotein complex. The importance of the α–β interface can be seen in the skeletal muscle of humans affected by severe conditions, such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy, where the α–β interaction can be secondarily weakened or completely lost, causing sarcolemmal instability and muscular necrosis. The reciprocal binding epitopes of the two subunits reside within the C‐terminus of α‐DG and the ectodomain of β‐DG. As no ultimate structural data are yet available on the α–β interface, site‐directed mutagenesis was used to identify which specific amino acids are involved in the interaction. A previous alanine‐scanning analysis of the recombinant β‐DG ectodomain allowed the identification of two phenylalanines important for α‐DG binding, namely F692 and F718. In this article, similar experiments performed on the α‐DG C‐terminal domain pinpointed two residues, G563 and P565, as possible binding counterparts of the two β‐DG phenylalanines. In 293‐Ebna cells, the introduction of alanine residues instead of F692, F718, G563 and P565 prevented the cleavage of the DG precursor that liberates α‐ and β‐DG, generating a pre‐DG of about 160 kDa. This uncleaved pre‐DG tetramutant is properly targeted at the cell membrane, is partially glycosylated and still binds laminin in pull‐down assays. These data reinforce the notion that DG processing and its membrane targeting are two independent processes, and shed new light on the molecular mechanism that drives the maturation of the DG precursor.

Structured digital abstract

MINT‐7214494: alpha DG (uniprotkb:Q62165) binds (MI:0407) to beta DG (uniprotkb:Q62165) by solid phase assay (MI:0892)

MINT‐7214516: laminin (uniprotkb:P19137) binds (MI:0407) to beta DG (uniprotkb:Q62165) by pull down (MI:0096)
Regulation of calpain B from Drosophila melanogaster by phosphorylation
Authors: Kovács László , Alexa Anita , Klement Eva , Kókai Endre , Tantos Ágnes , Gógl Gergö , Sperka Tamás , Medzihradszky Katalin F. , Tözsér József , Dombrádi Viktor , Friedrich Péter
Published: August 2009

Calpain B is one of the two catalytically competent calpain (calcium‐activated papain) isoenzymes in Drosophila melanogaster. Because structural predictions hinted at the presence of several potential phosphorylation sites in this enzyme, we investigated the in vitro phosphorylation of the recombinant protein by protein kinase A as well as by the extracellular signal‐regulated protein kinases (ERK) 1 and 2. By MS, we identified Ser845 in the Ca2+ binding region of an EF‐hand motif, and Ser240 close to the autocatalytic activation site of calpain B, as being the residues phosphorylated by protein kinase A. In the transducer region of the protease, Thr747 was shown to be the target of the ERK phosphorylation. Based on the results of three different assays, we concluded that the treatment of calpain B with protein kinase A and ERK1 and ERK2 kinases increases the rate of the autoproteolytic activation of the enzyme, together with the rate of the digestion of external peptide or protein substrates. Phosphorylation also elevates the Ca2+ sensitivity of the protease. The kinetic analysis of phosphorylation mimicking Thr747Glu and Ser845Glu calpain B mutants confirmed the above conclusions. Out of the three phosphorylation events tested in vitro, we verified the in vivo phosphorylation of Thr747 in epidermal growth factor‐stimulated Drosophila S2 cells. The data obtained suggest that the activation of the ERK pathway by extracellular signals results in the phosphorylation and activation of calpain B in fruit flies.

Structured digital abstract

MINT‐7214239: ERK1 (uniprotkb:P40417) phosphorylates (MI:0217) CalpainB (uniprotkb:Q9VT65) by protein kinase assay (MI:0424)

MINT‐7214216, MINT‐7214228: PKA (uniprotkb:P12370) phosphorylates (MI:0217) CalpainB (uniprotkb:Q9VT65) by protein kinase assay (MI:0424)

MINT‐7214325: CalpainB (uniprotkb:Q9VT65) cleaves (MI:0194) MAP2C (uniprotkb:P11137) by protease assay (MI:0435)

MINT‐7214275: ERK2 (uniprotkb:P40417‐2) phosphorylates (MI:0217) CalpainB (uniprotkb:Q9VT65) by protein kinase assay (MI:0424)

MINT‐7214319: CalpainB (uniprotkb:Q9VT65) and CalpainB (uniprotkb:Q9VT65) cleave (MI:0194) by protease assay (MI:0435)
Impaired Sexual Function in Patients with Borderline Personality Disorder is Determined by History of Sexual Abuse
Authors: Schulte-Herbrüggen Olaf , Ahlers Christoph J. , Kronsbein Julia-Maleen , Rüter Anke , Bahri Scharif , Vater Aline , Roepke Stefan
Published: August 2009

Introduction

Patients suffering from a Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) display altered sexual behavior, such as sexual avoidance or sexual impulsivity, which has repeatedly been linked to the sexual traumatization that occurs in a high percentage of BPD patients. Until now, no empirical data exists on whether these patients concomitantly suffer from sexual dysfunction.

Aim

This study investigates sexual function and the impact of sexual traumatization on this issue in women with BPD as compared to healthy women.

Main Outcome Measures

Sexual function was measured using the Female Sexual Function Index. Additionally, diagnoses were made with SCID II Interviews for Axis II and with the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview for Axis I disorders. The Post-traumatic Stress Diagnostic Scale for trauma evaluation was used. Sexual orientation was assessed by self-evaluation.

Methods

Forty-five women with BPD as diagnosed according to DSM-IV criteria and 30 healthy women completed questionnaires on sexual function and sexual abuse history, as well as interviews on axis I and II disorders and psychotropic medication.

Results

The BPD group showed a significantly higher prevalence of sexual dysfunction. Subgroup analyses revealed that BPD with concomitant sexual traumatization, and not BPD alone, best explains impaired sexual function. Sexual inactivity was mainly related to current major depression or use of SSRI medication. In sexually active participants, medication and symptoms of depression had no significant impact on sexual function.

Conclusions

Not BPD alone, but concomitant sexual traumatization, predicts significantly impaired sexual function. This may have a therapeutic impact on BPD patients reporting sexual traumatization.
In Vitro and in Vivo Relaxation of Corpus Cavernosum Smooth Muscle by the Selective Myosin II Inhibitor, Blebbistatin
Authors: Zhang Xin-hua , Aydin Memduh , Kuppam Dwaraka , Melman Arnold , DiSanto Michael E.
Published: August 2009

Introduction

Blebbistatin (BLEB) is a small cell permeable molecule originally reported as a selective inhibitor of myosin II isoforms expressed by striated muscle and non-muscle cells (IC50 = 0.5–5 µM) with poor inhibition of turkey gizzard smooth muscle (SM) myosin II (IC50∼80 µM). However, recently it was found that BLEB can potently inhibit mammalian arterial SM (IC50∼5 µM).

Aim

To investigate the effect of BLEB on corpus cavernosum SM (CCSM) tone and erectile function (EF).

Methods

CC tissue obtained from penile implant patients along with CC, aorta and bladder from adult male rats were used for BLEB organ bath studies. Intracavernosal BLEB was administered to rats and EF was assessed via intracavernous pressure (ICP).

Main Outcome Measures

Effects of BLEB on agonist-induced CCSM, aorta and bladder contraction in vitro and ICP in vivo.

Results

BLEB completely relaxed human CCSM pre-contracted with phenylephrine (PE) in a dose-dependent manner decreasing tension by 76.5% at 10 µM. BLEB pre-incubation attenuated PE-induced contraction of human CC by ∼85%. Human CC strips pre-contracted with endothelin-1 or KCl were almost completely relaxed by BLEB. Rat CCSM pre-contracted with PE showed BLEB relaxation comparable to human CCSM. BLEB inhibition was similar for rat aorta but slower for bladder. Both maximal ICP and ICP/mean arterial pressure were dose-dependently increased by BLEB intracavernous injections with full erection at 1 micromole.

Conclusion

Our novel data reveals that BLEB nearly completely relaxes rat and human CCSM pre-contracted with a variety of potent agonists and exhibits tissue selectivity. Coupled with our in vivo data in which nanomole doses of BLEB significantly increase ICP, our data substantiates an important role for the SM contractile apparatus in the molecular mechanism for EF and suggests the possibility of BLEB binding at myosin II as a therapeutic treatment for ED by targeting SM contractile pathways.
Conceptualizing Women’s Sexual Function: Linear vs. Circular Models of Sexual Response
Authors: Giles Katie R. , McCabe Marita P.
Published: August 2009

Introduction

The lack of an adequate empirical base for models of female sexual response is a critical issue within the female sexual dysfunction (FSD) literature.

Aim

The current research compared the extent to which a linear model of sexual response and Basson’s circular model of female sexual response represent the sexual function of women with and without FSD.

Main Outcome Measures

Women’s levels of sexual function/dysfunction were assessed with the Female Sexual Function Index and additional items measured women’s endorsement of models of female sexual function as representing their own sexual experience.

Methods

An anonymous online survey assessing female sexual response and associated aetiological factors was completed by a random sample of 404 women.

Results

Although the linear model of sexual response was a good fit for women with and without sexual dysfunction, the relationship between sexual arousal and orgasm was mediated by sexual desire for women with FSD. The fit of the initial circular model of women’s sexual response was poor for both groups. Following pathway modification, the modified circular model adequately represented the responses of both groups and revealed that a number of the relationships between sexual response variables were stronger for women with FSD.

Conclusions

The linear model was a more accurate representation of sexual response for women with normal sexual function than women with FSD and sexual arousal and orgasm was mediated by sexual desire for women with FSD. The modified circular model was a more accurate representation of the sexual response of women with FSD than women with normal sexual function.
The Correlation Between Intracavernosal Pressure and Cavernosal Blood Oxygenation
Authors: Tal Raanan , Mueller Alexander , Mulhall John P.
Published: August 2009

Introduction

Given that regular nocturnal erections are physiological, it has been suggested that erections are pivotal to the maintenance of erectile tissue health. It has been postulated that a critical element to erectile tissue protection is cavernosal oxygenation. It is accepted that the corpora cavernosa are oxygenated fully during a rigid erection. However, it remains unknown what degree of penile rigidity is required to achieve cavernosal oxygenation at the arterial level.

Aim

This analysis was undertaken to define the correlation between intracavernosal pressure (ICP) and cavernosal oxygen partial pressure (pO2).

Main Outcome Measures

Cavernosal pO2 at various ICPs.

Methods

The study population was comprised of patients undergoing dynamic infusion cavernosometry (DIC) in the evaluation of erectile dysfunction or prior to penile reconstructive surgery. DIC was conducted with a standard vasoactive agent redosing schedule. One milliliter of corporal blood was aspirated at various ICPs into a heparinized syringe for later pO2 analysis. Blood was placed on ice immediately and transported to the laboratory upon completion of the DIC.

Results

Twenty-one blood samples were analyzed from 13 patients. Mean patient age was 43 ± 18 years. Blood specimens were collected at an ICP range of 6–90 mm Hg. Mean ± SD pO2 was 39 ± 11 mm Hg at ICP < 10 mm Hg, 87 ± 3 at ICP 11–20 mm Hg, 89 ± 6 at ICP 21–45 mm Hg and 96 ± 13 at ICP > 45 mm Hg.

Conclusions

Significant increases in cavernosal oxygenation occur in the earliest stages of erection at relatively low ICP. These findings suggest that partial erections may be sufficient to oxygenate erectile tissue and protect it from prolonged hypoxia-induced damage.
The Role of 3-D Ultrasonography in the Evaluation of Menstrual Cycle-Related Vascular Modifications of the Clitoris. A Prospective Pilot Study
Authors: Battaglia Cesare , Nappi Rossella Elena , Sisti Giovanni , Persico Nicola , Busacchi Paolo , Venturoli Stefano
Published: August 2009

Introduction

Clitoral functional modifications occur during the menstrual cycle.

Aim

To prospectively evaluate, by the three-dimensional (3-D) Doppler flow analysis, the hemodynamic clitoral blood flow variations during the menstrual cycle.

Methods

Fourteen young (18–35 years), eumenorrheic (menstrual cycle of >25 and <35 days) women in a stable heterosexual relationship (>1 year) and without any sexual dysfunction (as resulted from the two-factor Italian McCoy female sexuality questionnaire ≥35) were submitted, in the early follicular (day 3–5) and in the periovulatory (day 12–14) phases of the menstrual cycle, to bi- and tridimensional ultrasonographic and color Doppler analyses of the clitoral structures. On the same days, the circulating estradiol values were assayed.

Main Outcomes Measures

Two-dimensional ultrasonographic evaluation of follicular diameter and color Doppler evaluation of the dorsal clitoral arteries; 3-D power Doppler analysis of the clitoral body volume and of the indices of clitoral vascularization and blood flow; estradiol assay.

Results

The mean virtual organ computer-aided analysis (VOCAL) volume of the clitoral body was lower in the follicular (0.79 ± 0.19 mL) phase with respect to the periovulatory phase (0.98 ± 0.22 mL; P <0.001); the clitoral arteries demonstrated a significant decrease of the pulsatility index (PI) from the follicular (1.75 ± 0.18) to the periovulatory phase (1.26 ± 0.21; P = 0.002); the 3-D power Doppler histogram analysis showed significant changes of the indices of vascularization and blood flow (vascularization index [VI] = 2.239 ± 1.201 vs. 3.302 ± 1.305, P = 0.001; flow index = 27.290 ± 2.454 vs. 33.620 ± 1.712, P < 0.001; vascularization flow index = 0.578 ± 0.573 vs. 1.091 ± 0.461; P = 0.001) between the follicular and the periovulatory phase of the menstrual cycle. The relationship between the different parameters evidenced that estradiol is positively correlated with the VOCAL clitoral body volume (r = 0.512; P = 0.033) and inversely correlated with the dorsal clitoral artery PI (r = −497; P = 0.048) and with VI (r = 0.622; P = 0.011).

Conclusions

During the normal menstrual cycle, the estrogens may, probably, influence the clitoral anatomic and vascular structures and the 3-D ultrasonography may easily and precisely demonstrate these modifications.
Botulinum Toxin A (Botox) for Relieving Penile Retraction
Authors: Shaeer Osama , Shaeer Kamal , Shaeer Ahmad
Published: August 2009

Introduction

The flaccid penis undergoes retraction upon contraction of the dartos muscle. These contractions are most pronounced in the situations of cold, stress, and upon exercising, and can be the source of embarrassment to those who have a hyperactive retraction reflex, especially when exposed to their partners or to others in showers and dressing rooms, despite a normal and satisfactory length in the erect state.

Aim

In this work, we propose an alternative to surgery and penile extenders for alleviating penile retraction, by injection of botulinum toxin into the dartos to induce muscle relaxation. This is the first report of the technique.

Methods

Ten male patients complaining of a short penis exclusively in the flaccid state, despite normal and satisfactory erect and outstretched lengths, were selected for the study. One hundred units of BOTOX were injected into the dartos muscle.

Main Outcome Measures

Frequency and amplitude of penile retraction, flaccid unstretched length, and patient satisfaction.

Results

Seven out of 10 cases (70%) subjectively reported a decrease in the frequency and amplitude of penile retraction, as well as improvement in flaccid length. Clinical measurements were less pronounced but still showed an improvement that was mainly in terms of less retraction rather than more length. No side effects were reported. Improvement faded completely by the 6th month.

Conclusion

This preliminary report of botulinum toxin A (Botox) injection into the dartos muscle shows that Botox may have a potential effect in temporarily decreasing penile retractions in terms of frequency and amplitude.
Persistent Erectile Dysfunction Following Radical Prostatectomy: The Association between Nerve-Sparing Status and the Prevalence and Chronology of Venous Leak
Authors: Tal Raanan , Valenzuela Rolando , Aviv Nadid , Parker Marilyn , Waters W. Bedford , Flanigan Robert C. , Mulhall John P.
Published: August 2009

Introduction

Failure to recover erectile function after radical prostatectomy (RP) may result from venous leak as a sequela of neuropraxia-induced erectile tissue damage. Venous leak portends a poor prognosis for erections recovery as well as phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor (PDE5i) response.

Aims

To define the impact of RP nerve-sparing status on venous leak prevalence and chronology.

Methods

Study population: men who underwent RP for localized prostate cancer, had functional erections prior to RP, developed postoperative erectile dysfunction (ED), had a Doppler ultrasonography within 6 months of RP, and did not receive any ED treatment for the first 6 months after RP other than on-demand PDE5i.

Main Outcome Measures

Venous leak prevalence and erectile function recovery at different time-points.

Results

Data on 142 patients were analyzed, mean age: 58 ± 16 years. Sixty percent had bilateral nerve-sparing (BNS) surgery, 20% unilateral nerve-sparing (UNS) surgery, and 20% non-nerve-sparing (NNS) surgery. Eleven percent and 21% had venous leak by 3 and 6 months, respectively. Venous leak prevalence by 6 months was 7%, 11%, and 75% for BNS, UNS, and NNS surgery (P < 0.001). Mean end-diastolic velocity was 1.8, 2.1, and 7.2 cm/second for the three groups (P < 0.01). The only patients developing venous leak prior to 3 months were NNS patients, one-third of NNS-associated venous leak occurring before this time-point. At 18 months, the proportion of men having return of unassisted erections was 49%, 42%, and 7% with mean erectile function domain scores of 21, 18, and 12, and PDE5i response rates were 72%, 64%, and 12% for the three groups, respectively.

Conclusions

Nerve-sparing status impacts heavily upon the prevalence and the chronology of venous leak development post-RP. NNS RP is associated with early development of venous leak, increased prevalence of venous leak, and reduction in return of natural erections.
EFFECTS OF ZERO‐TRANS INTERESTERIFIED AND NON‐INTERESTERIFIED SHORTENINGS AND BREWER'S SPENT GRAIN ON COOKIE QUALITY
Authors: OZTURK SERPIL , OZBAS OZEN OZBOY , JAVIDIPOUR ISSA , KOKSEL HAMIT
Published: August 2009

The effects of non‐interesterified (non‐in‐es) and chemically interesterified (in‐es) cottonseed oil (CO), palm oil (PO) and CO : PO blend (1:1, weight basis) and brewer's spent grain (BSG) on quality of cookies were studied. Incorporation of non‐in‐es and in‐es CO and CO : PO blend improved the nutritional value of the cookies by altering the fatty acid composition. The experimental shortenings had zero‐trans fatty acids (TFA) and considerably higher linoleic acid contents than hydrogenated shortening (HS). in‐es PO and CO : PO blend samples had lower solid fat content than their non‐in‐es counterparts and this resulted in higher spread ratios in in‐es incorporated cookies. As expected, addition of BSG significantly increased (P < 0.05) the total dietary fiber (TDF) content of cookies. Cookies with modified fatty acid composition and 4.4‐fold higher TDF have been produced by using non‐in‐es and in‐es CO and CO : PO with 15% BSG, without significant adverse effects on sensory properties.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Hydrogenated shortenings (HSs) are the most important source of fat in cookies and might have high proportions of trans fatty acids (TFAs). A high intake of TFA is associated with increased risk of coronary heart disease and the intake should be reduced to minimize health risks. In this work, the production of zero‐trans interesterified and non‐interesterified shortenings and their utilization in high‐fiber cookies were investigated. The results indicated that some of the experimental in‐es and non‐in‐es shortenings and 15% brewer's spent grain could be used for production of cookies with zero TFA and higher unsaturated fatty acids and total dietary fiber contents without detrimentally affecting their sensory properties. The in‐es shortening incorporated cookies had higher spread ratios and color values than their non‐in‐es counterparts.
ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY OF BENE HULL OIL COMPARED WITH SESAME AND RICE BRAN OILS DURING THE FRYING PROCESS OF SUNFLOWER OIL
Authors: SHARIF ALI , FARHOOSH REZA , KHODAPARAST MOHAMMAD HOSSEIN HADDAD , KAFRANI MOHAMMAD HOSSEIN TAVASSOLI
Published: August 2009

The antioxidant activity of Bene hull oil (BHO) was compared with that of sesame oil (SEO) and rice bran oil (RBO) during the frying process of sunflower oil (SFO) at 180C. The ratio between the polyunsaturated and saturated fatty acids and calculated oxidizability were statistically greater for the SFO (4.26 and 6.48, respectively), followed by the SEO (3.18 and 6.27, respectively), RBO (1.53 and 4.37, respectively) and BHO (0.37 and 1.67, respectively). Peroxide and acid values of the oils studied ranged from 0.34 to 3.07 mEq/kg and from 0.19 to 5.20 mg/g, respectively. Total tocopherols and phenolics contents of the SEO (1093.28 and 1042.43 mg/kg, respectively) were significantly higher than those of the SFO (740.27 and 38.68 mg/kg, respectively), BHO (573.41 and 276.67 mg/kg, respectively), and RBO (832.98 and 67.98 mg/kg, respectively). In total, based on the conjugated diene value and carbonyl value measurements during the frying process, the BHO showed an antioxidant activity higher than those of the SEO and RBO at the level of 2%, and the levels higher than 2% of the antioxidative oils caused to decrease the oxidative stability of the SFO, indicating the pro‐oxidant effect of the oils added at these levels.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

This research introduces the oil obtained from the hull of Bene, a species of pistachio growing wild in Iran, as a new source of vegetable oil for human nutrition with antioxidant activity significantly higher than sesame and rice bran oils, which are considered as very stable and antioxidative vegetable oils because of the presence of very strong indigenous antioxidants, during the frying process.