bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Controllable Microwave Hydrothermal Synthesis of Bismuth Ferrites and Photocatalytic Characterization
Authors: Tan Guo‐Qiang , Zheng Yu‐Qin , Miao Hong‐Yan , Xia Ao , Ren Hui‐Jun 
Published: August 2011

The process, by which three kinds of bismuth ferrites (BiFeO3, Bi25FeO40, and Bi25FeO40–BiFeO3) were synthesized for 1 h through a microwave hydrothermal method by changing the KOH concentration and the temperature, is summarized in this article. The as‐prepared bismuth ferrite powders were characterized by the X‐ray diffraction, the field emission scanning electron microscopy, and the transmission electron microscope, and the band gaps, specific surface areas, photocatalytic and magnetic properties were explored as well. The results showed that the degradation degree of methyl orange using BiFeO3, Bi25FeO40, and Bi25FeO40–BiFeO3 as catalyst were 35%, 52%, and 90% at 2 h, respectively, and the magnetizations of the three powders were 0.07, 3.17, and 0.55 emu/g, respectively. This indicated that the porous cubic Bi25FeO40–BiFeO3 powder has the best photocatalytic property of the three, making it useful as a new type of photocatalytic material which can be easily recycled by magnetic separation.
In vivo performance of zirconia and titanium implants: a histomorphometric study in mini pig maxillae
Authors: Gahlert M. , Roehling S. , Sprecher C. M. , Kniha H. , Milz S. , Bormann K. 
Published: August 2011

Abstract
Objectives: To compare the bone tissue response to surface‐modified zirconia (ZrO2) and titanium implants.
Methods: Cylindrical low‐pressure injection moulded zirconia (ZrO2) implants were produced with an acid‐etched surface. Titanium implants with identical shape, sandblasted and acid‐etched surface (SLA) served as controls. Eighteen adult miniature pigs received both implant types in the maxilla 6 months after extraction of the canines and incisors. The animals were euthanized after 4, 8 and 12 weeks and 16 zirconia and 18 titanium implants with the surrounding tissue were retrieved, embedded in methylmethacrylate and stained with Giemsa–Eosin. The stained sections were digitized and histomorphometrically analysed with regard to peri‐implant bone density (bone volume/total volume) and bone–implant contact (BIC) ratio. Statistical analysis was performed using Mann–Whitney' U‐test.
Results: Histomorphometrical analysis showed direct osseous integration for both materials. ZrO2 implants revealed mean peri‐implant bone density values of 60.4% (SD ± 9.9) at 4 weeks, 65.4% (SD ± 13.8) at 8 weeks, and 63.3% (SD ± 21.5) at 12 weeks after implantation, whereas Ti‐SLA implants demonstrated mean values of 61.1% (SD ± 6.2), 63.6% (SD ± 6.8) and 68.2% (SD ± 5.8) at corresponding time intervals. Concerning the BIC ratio, the mean values for ZrO2 ranged between 67.1% (SD ± 21.1) and 70% (SD ± 14.5) and for Ti‐SLA between 64.7% (SD ± 9.4) and 83.7% (SD ± 10.3). For the two parameters investigated, no significant differences between both types of implants could be detected at any time point.
Conclusion: The results indicate that there was no difference in osseointegration between ZrO2 implants and Ti‐SLA controls regarding peri‐implant bone density and BIC ratio.
To cite this article: Gahlert M, Roehling S, Sprecher CM, Kniha H, Milz S, Bormann K. In vivo performance of zirconia and titanium implants: a histomorphometric study in mini pig maxillae. Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 23, 2012; 281–286. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0501.2011.02157.x
Stability of cp‐Ti and Ti‐6Al‐4V alloy for dental implants as a function of saliva pH – an electrochemical study
Authors: Barão Valentim A. R. , Mathew Mathew T. , Assunção Wirley Gonçalves , Yuan Judy Chia‐Chun , Wimmer Markus A. , Sukotjo Cortino 
Published: August 2011

AbstractObjectivesTo investigate the role of different levels of pH of artificial saliva under simulated oral environment on the corrosion behavior of commercially pure titanium (cp‐Ti) and Ti‐6Al‐4V alloy. Special attention is given to understand the changes in corrosion kinetics and surface characterization of Ti by using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS).Materials and methodsFifty‐four Ti disks (15‐mm diameter, 2‐mm thickness) were divided into six groups (n = 9) as a function of saliva pH (3, 6.5, and 9) and Ti type. Samples were mechanically polished using standard metallographic procedures. Standard electrochemical tests, such as open circuit potential, EIS, and potentiodynamic tests were conducted in a controlled environment. Data were evaluated by two‐way ANOVA, Tukey multiple comparison test, and independent t‐test (α = 0.05). Ti surfaces were examined using white‐light‐interferometry microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).ResultsSaliva pH level significantly affected the corrosion behavior of both Ti types. At low pH, acceleration of ions exchange between Ti and saliva, and reduction of resistance of Ti surface against corrosion were observed (P < 0.05). Corrosion rate was also significantly increased in acidic medium (P < 0.05). Similar corrosion behavior was observed for both Ti types. The white‐light‐interferometry images of Ti surfaces show higher surface changes at low pH level. SEM images do not show detectable changes. No pitting corrosion was observed for any group.ConclusionsThe pH level of artificial saliva influences the corrosion behavior of cp‐Ti and Ti‐6Al‐4V alloy in that lower pH accelerates the corrosion rate and kinetics. The corrosion products may mitigate the survival rate of dental implants.
Nutritional status and cognitive performance of mother–child pairs in Sidama, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Bogale Alemtsehay , Stoecker Barbara J. , Kennedy Tay , Hubbs‐Tait Laura , Thomas David , Abebe Yewelsew , Hambidge K. Michael 
Published: August 2011

AbstractThe purpose of this study was to assess the nutritional status and cognitive performance of women and their 5‐year‐old children using a cross‐sectional design. Cognitive performance of mothers and children was assessed with Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices (CPM) and Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children‐II (KABC‐II). Demographic characteristics, food consumption patterns and anthropometry were also measured. Four rural districts in Sidama, southern Ethiopia served as the setting for this study. Subjects were one hundred women and their 5‐year‐old children. Mean ± standard deviation age of the mothers was 29 ± 6 years and family size was 7.0 ± 2.6. Maternal body mass index (BMI) ranged from 15.3 to 29.0 with 14% of the mothers having BMI < 18.5. Anthropometric assessment of children revealed 29% to be stunted (height‐for‐age z‐score < −2) and 12% to be underweight (weight‐for‐age z‐score < −2). Mothers' education significantly contributed to prediction of both mothers' and children's cognitive test scores. There were significant differences in mean cognitive test scores between stunted and non‐stunted, and between underweight and normal‐weight children. Height‐for‐age z‐scores were correlated with scores for short‐term memory (r = 0.42, P < 0.001), and visual processing (r = 0.42, P < 0.001) indices and weight‐for‐age z‐scores were also correlated with scores of short‐term memory (r = 0.41, P < 0.001) and visual processing (r = 0.43, P < 0.001) indices. Malnutrition in the community likely contributed to the cognitive performance of the subjects. Performance on memory and visual processing tasks was significantly lower in children with growth deficits suggesting that efficient and cost effective methods to alleviate malnutrition and food insecurity would impact not only child health but also cognitive function.
Structural characterization of angiotensin I‐converting enzyme in complex with a selenium analogue of captopril
Authors: Akif Mohd , Masuyer Geoffrey , Schwager Sylva L. U. , Bhuyan Bhaskar J. , Mugesh Govindasamy , Isaac R. Elwyn , Sturrock Edward D. , Acharya K. Ravi 
Published: August 2011

Human somatic angiotensin I‐converting enzyme (ACE), a zinc‐dependent dipeptidyl carboxypeptidase, is central to the regulation of the renin–angiotensin aldosterone system. It is a well‐known target for combating hypertension and related cardiovascular diseases. In a recent study by Bhuyan and Mugesh [Org. Biomol. Chem. (2011) 9, 1356–1365], it was shown that the selenium analogues of captopril (a well‐known clinical inhibitor of ACE) not only inhibit ACE, but also protect against peroxynitrite‐mediated nitration of peptides and proteins. Here, we report the crystal structures of human testis ACE (tACE) and a homologue of ACE, known as AnCE, from Drosophila melanogaster in complex with the most promising selenium analogue of captopril (SeCap) determined at 2.4 and 2.35 Å resolution, respectively. The inhibitor binds at the active site of tACE and AnCE in an analogous fashion to that observed for captopril and provide the first examples of a protein–selenolate interaction. These new structures of tACE–SeCap and AnCE–SeCap inhibitor complexes presented here provide important information for further exploration of zinc coordinating selenium‐based ACE inhibitor pharmacophores with significant antioxidant activity.Database
Structural data for the two SeCap complexes with ACE and AnCE have been deposited with the RCSB Protein Data Bank under the codes 2YDM and 3ZQZ, respectively.
The Role of Testosterone in Sexuality and Paraphilia—A Neurobiological Approach. Part I: Testosterone and Sexuality
Authors: Jordan Kirsten , Fromberger Peter , Stolpmann Georg , Müller Jürgen Leo 
Published: August 2011

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Antiandrogen therapy has been used for 30 years to treat paraphilic patients and sexual offenders. Yet the therapeutic success of antiandrogens is uncertain. Furthermore, there is still a lack of comprehensive knowledge about the effects of androgen-lowering therapy in paraphilic patients.

Aim
This article reviews current neurobiological and clinical knowledge about testosterone and its impact on sexuality, acquired from animal and human basic research. This knowledge may not only enhance our understanding of the great variability of the therapeutic outcome, but could also offer new opportunities to evaluate the effect of androgen-lowering therapy in paraphilia.

Methods
A comprehensive review of the human and animal literature is presented, considering the classical and non-classical mechanisms of androgens and the androgen brain receptors. Furthermore, the clinical evidence about the impact of testosterone on human sexual behavior is discussed. These are integrated into two current neurobiological theories of sexual behavior, the four-component model and the dual-control model.

Results
The wide distribution of androgen receptors throughout the whole brain and their numerous mechanisms demonstrate that androgens can modulate almost every aspect of sexual behavior—i.e., not only autonomic functions, but also emotional, motivational, and cognitive aspects. Furthermore, testosterone participates in excitatory and inhibitory processes of sexual functions by modulating the activity of mainly dopaminergic neurotransmitter systems.

Conclusions
Using the data presented, we combine the two models and present a new integrated approach to understand the role of testosterone in the excitation and inhibition of sexual function, at the neurochemical, neuroanatomical, and behavioral levels. This knowledge will help us to gain a better understanding of the few and inconsistent data that are currently available concerning (i) the association between testosterone and paraphilic behavior; and (ii) the highly variable effects of antiandrogen therapy, discussed in Part II of this review.
Expression and Distribution of Phosphodiesterase Isoenzymes in the Human Seminal Vesicles
Authors: Ückert Stefan , Waldkirch Eginhard S. , Sonnenberg Joachim E. , Sandner Peter , Kuczyk Markus A. , Hedlund Petter 
Published: August 2011

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Phosphodiesterase (PDE) isoenzymes have been shown to play a role in the control of human male genital tissues. There are hints from basic research and clinical studies that PDE5 inhibitors may have the ability to retard the male ejaculatory response. While the expression of PDE isoenzymes in the human seminal vesicles (SVs) has been described, the distribution of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (AMP)- and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (GMP)-PDEs has not yet been investigated.

Aim
The aim of this study was to elucidate the expression and distribution of PDE isoenzymes PDE3A, PDE4 (isoforms A and B), PDE5A, and PDE11A in human SV tissue.

Methods
Using immunohistochemistry (double-labeling techniques, laser fluorescence microscopy), the occurrence of PDE3A, PDE4A, PDE4B, PDE5A, and PDE11A, the vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), and protein gene product 9.5 (PGP 9.5) was examined in sections of SV. Cytosolic supernatants prepared from isolated human SV tissue were subjected to Western blot analysis using specific anti-PDE antibodies.

Main Outcome Measure
The expression and distribution by of PDE3A, PDE4A, PDE4B, PDE5A, and PDE11A in the human SV were investigated by means of immunohistochemistry and Western blot analysis.

Results
Immunosignals specific for PDE3A were seen in both the smooth muscle and the glandular epithelium, whereas staining for PDE4A, PDE5A, and PDE11A was mainly limited to epithelial cells. Varicose nerve fibers transversing the sections also presented staining for PDE3A. In nerve fibers and nerve endings, PDE4A and PDE4B were found co-localized with VIP; PDE5A-positive nerves also presented immunosignals specific for CGRP. The expression of said PDE isoenzymes was confirmed by Western blotting.

Conclusions
The results indicate that cyclic AMP- and cyclic GMP-PDE isoenzymes are involved in the control of secretory activity and efferent neurotransmission in the SV. These findings might be of importance with regard to the identification of new therapeutic avenues to treat premature ejaculation.
The Prevalence of the Components of Low Sexual Function and Associated Factors in Middle-Aged Women
Authors: Valadares Ana Lúcia Ribeiro , Pinto-Neto Aarão Mendes , de Souza Maria Helena , Osis Maria José Duarte , da Costa Paiva Lúcia Helena Simões 
Published: August 2011

Abstract

Introduction
Female sexual function depends on biological, psychological, and sociocultural contexts.

Aim
The objective of the present study was to evaluate the prevalence of low levels of functioning in each of the sexual function domains (desire, arousal, and orgasm) and the factors associated with these phenomena, as well as to assess the frequency of sexual activity in this same sample population.

Methods
A cross-sectional, population-based study was conducted using an anonymous self-response questionnaire completed by 378 Brazilian-born women of 40–65 years of age with 11 years or more of formal education. The evaluation instrument was based on the Short Personal Experiences Questionnaire.

Results
The prevalence of low sexual desire was 60.6%; low arousal, 37%; and low orgasmic function, 31.1%. Multiple regression analysis showed that having a sexual partner (prevalence ratio [PR] = 0.69, confidence interval [CI] = 0.53–0.90) and nervousness (PR = 1.33, CI = 1.01–1.75) were factors associated with low sexual desire. Aging (PR = 1.04, CI = 1.02–1.06), having a sexual partner (PR = 0.57, CI = 0.41–0.81), feeling well/excellent (PR = 0.59, CI = 0.41–0.85), and having hot flashes (PR = 1.47, CI = 1.01 = 2.15) were factors found to be associated with low sexual arousal. Having a sexual partner (PR = 0.55, CI = 0.42–0.71), feeling well/excellent (PR = 0.68, CI = 0.49–0.94), and having hot flashes (PR = 2.08, CI = 1.43 = 3.04) were factors found to be associated with low sexual orgasmic function. Having a sexual partner (PR = 0.47, CI = 0.38–0.58), feeling well/excellent (PR = 0.78, CI = 0.69–0.89), and having hot flashes (PR = 1.15, CI = 1.05–1.26) were factors found to be associated with a frequency of sexual activity of once a week or less.

Conclusions
In this sample of middle-aged women, low sexual desire was the most prevalent sexual problem. These results highlight the importance of identifying and treating factors associated with each individual component of low female sexual function.
Effect of Niacin on Erectile Function in Men Suffering Erectile Dysfunction and Dyslipidemia
Authors: Ng Chi-Fai , Lee Chui-Ping , Ho Allen L. , Lee Vivian W.Y. 
Published: August 2011

Abstract

Introduction
Dyslipidemia is closely related to erectile dysfunction (ED). Evidence has shown that the lipid-lowering agent, 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase inhibitor (statins), can improve erectile function. However, information about the potential role of another class of lipid-lowering agent, niacin, is unknown.

Aim
To assess the effect of niacin alone on erectile function in patients suffering from both ED and dyslipidemia.

Methods
A single center prospective randomized placebo-controlled parallel-group trial was conducted. One hundred sixty male patients with ED and dyslipidemia were randomized in a one-to-one ratio to receive up to 1,500 mg oral niacin daily or placebo for 12 weeks.

Main Outcome Measures
The primary outcome measure was the improvement in erectile function as assessed by question 3 and question 4 of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF Q3 and Q4). Secondary outcome measurements included the total IIEF score, IIEF-erectile function domain, and Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) score.

Results
From the overall analysis, the niacin group showed a significant increase in both IIEF-Q3 scores (0.53 ± 1.18, P &lt; 0.001) and IIEF-Q4 scores (0.35 ± 1.17, P = 0.013) compared with baseline values. The placebo group also showed a significant increase in IIEF-Q3 scores (0.30 ± 1.16, P = 0.040) but not IIEF-Q4 scores (0.24 ± 1.13, P = 0.084). However, when patients were stratified according to the baseline severity of ED, the patients with moderate and severe ED who received niacin showed a significant improvement in IIEF-Q3 scores (0.56 ± 0.96 [P = 0.037] and 1.03 ± 1.20 [P &lt; 0.001], respectively) and IIEF-Q4 scores (0.56 ± 1.03 [P = 0.048] and 0.84 ± 1.05 [P &lt; 0.001], respectively] compared with baseline values, but not for the placebo group. The improvement in IIEF-EF domain score for severe and moderate ED patients in the niacin group were 5.28 ± 5.94 (P &lt; 0.001) and 3.31 ± 4.54 (P = 0.014) and in the placebo group were 2.65 ± 5.63 (P &lt; 0.041) and 2.74 ± 5.59 (P = 0.027), respectively. There was no significant improvement in erectile function for patients with mild and mild-to-moderate ED for both groups. For patients not receiving statins treatment, there was a significant improvement in IIEF-Q3 scores (0.47 ± 1.16 [P = 0.004]) for the niacin group, but not for the placebo group.

Conclusions
Niacin alone can improve the erectile function in patients suffering from moderate to severe ED and dyslipidemia.
Simulation of closed double‐sludge retention time anoxic‐oxic process in wastewater treatment: case study for a utility model process
Authors: Lin Zhe , Liu Suiqing 
Published: August 2011

AbstractThe ‘closed double‐sludge retention time anoxic‐oxic (SRT AO) process’ is a utility model designed by the Shanghai Urban Construction Design and Research Institute. It can quantitatively control the nitrification level by adjusting wastewater distribution and mixed sludge return during wastewater treatment, and can thus considerably reduce construction investment and operation costs. However, mixed sludge return from the sedimentation tank may dilute the concentration of nitrobacteria because the heterotrophic bacteria propagate faster. In this paper, the closed double‐SRT AO process was modelled and simulated based on its application at the Zhuyuan Second Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP). The distribution ratio was found to have a significant influence on the nitrobacteria's concentration but does not eliminate the existence of nitrobacteria in the system. Extension of sludge age enhanced the heterotrophic bacteria concentration and to a greater extent the nitrobacteria concentration, thus attenuated the dilution of nitrobacteria. Mixed liquid recycling showed little effect on nitrobacteria concentration. The closed double‐SRT AO process in Zhuyuan Second WWTP had enough capacity for complete nitrification, but the shortage of organic matter in the influent impeded the nitrogen removal.
A New Look at Chinese FDI in Australia
Authors: Drysdale Peter 
Published: August 2011

AbstractAustralia is China's largest destination for FDI, most of it directed to the resource sector. The scale and speed of the surge of Chinese investment into Australia, largely from state‐owned enterprises (SOEs), has raised the question of whether investments by SOEs require special scrutiny. In China, the question is about the treatment of Chinese investment compared with investment from other countries. Clearly, Australia has had a policy environment that is very open to foreign investment, including investment from China. Nevertheless, it is questionable whether measures recently introduced in Australia to review investment by SOEs will restrict Chinese access to the Australian market or encourage a change in the nature of investment projects. How will Chinese enterprises need to adjust to the disciplines and rules in foreign markets? Will the Chinese Government need to take the regulations of host countries like Australia into account in its supervision of SOEs? Australia remains more open to Chinese investment than any other country in the world. Although the issue of SOE investment raises important new questions for policy‐makers in Australia and other countries, Chinese investment in Australian resources is very beneficial and, with appropriate institutional and policy initiatives, will continue its strong growth.
Chinese Outward Direct Investment: Is There a China Model?
Authors: Huang Yiping , Wang Bijun 
Published: August 2011

AbstractChinese outward direct investment (ODI) appears to differ from that of advanced economies. Is there a unique China model? By reviewing industry distributions of ODI data for 2003–2009, we found that Chinese ODI was not concentrated in industries that performed well either in exporting or domestically. Statistical analyses also confirmed that traditional variables, such as market size, production cost and legal environment, did not impact Chinese investors' choice of location for ODI. Instead, investors selected places where they could either learn advanced technologies or secure stable commodity supplies. We have tentatively concluded that the main purpose of the China model of ODI has not been to expand production overseas but to strengthen industries at home.
Hindutva as Praxis
Authors: Reddy Deepa 
Published: August 2011

AbstractThis article is the third and last in a series of three surveying research on Hindutva (Hindu nationalism or political Hinduism), focusing on praxis: processes by which hindutva is mobilized, operationalized, and made relatable to specific contexts. As hindutva’s influences expand to grassroots and diasporic contexts, mediated by discourses of rights, development, and cultures of multiculturalist ethnic assertions, hindutva becomes a mediating discourse in its own right. As such, it is sometimes a diffused logic and sometimes a clear point of reference, but always undeniably central to contemporary political practice at all levels. (The first essay in this series of three surveyed literature on seminal ideological articulations of hindutva, both historical and contemporary; the second examined prominent rhetorical constructions deployed to politically oppose hindutva).