bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Gene Transfer of TRPC6DN (Dominant Negative) Restores Erectile Function in Diabetic Rats
Authors: Jung Jae Hun , Kim Byung Joo , Chae Mee Ree , Kam Sung Chul , Jeon Ju-Hong , So Insuk , Chung Ky Hyun , Lee Sung Won 
Published: January 2010

ABSTRACTIntroductionTransient receptor potential (TRP) channels play an important role in modulating intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) levels.AimWe examined the hypothesis that overexpression of TRPC6DN (dominant negative) may contribute to decreased [Ca2+]i levels in corporal smooth muscle (CSM). We also investigated whether gene transfer of TRPC6DN could restore erectile function in diabetic rats.MethodsFor the in vitro study, the KCa, KATP, and TRPC6DN channel genes were transferred using cDNA, into cultured human CSM cells and human embryonic kidney cells. For the in vivo study, young adult rats were divided into three groups: normal controls; diabetic controls transfected with vector only; and a diabetic group transfected with pcDNA of the TRPC6DN gene.Main Outcome MeasuresAfter gene transfer, the effects of reducing [Ca2+]i levels were assessed by Fura-2-based imaging analysis. The intracavernosal pressure (ICP) response to cavernosal nerve stimulation was assessed after intracorporal injection of TRPC6DN pcDNA. The transgene expression of the TRPC6DN was examined by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) in rats transfected with TRPC6DN pcDNA.ResultsGene transfer of ion channels effectively reduced [Ca2+]i. Among these channels, transfer of the TRPC6DN gene resulted in the greatest reduction of [Ca2+]i in human CSM. The mean (±standard error of the mean) ratio of ICP to mean arterial pressure (BP) in the gene-transfer rats was 79.4 ± 2.4% (N=8). This was significantly higher than that in control rats (55.6 ± 3.7% [N=8]), and similar to that in the young control rats (83 ± 2.2% [N=12]). The RT-PCR showed expression of TRPC6DN genes in the transfected rats.ConclusionGene transfer of TRPC6DN not only reduced [Ca2+]i in human CSM but also restored erectile function in diabetic rats. These results suggest that pcDNA transfer of TRPC6DN may represent a promising new form of therapy for the treatment of male erectile dysfunction in the future. Jung JH, Kim BJ, Chae MR, Kam SC, Jeon J-H, So I, Chung KH, and Lee SW. Gene transfer of TRPC6DN (dominant negative) restores erectile function in diabetic rats.
The Relationship between Anger and Heterosexual Behavior. An Investigation in a Nonclinical Sample of Urban Italian Undergraduates
Authors: Muscatello Maria R.A. , Bruno Antonio , Scimeca Giuseppe , Pandolfo Gianluca , Paduano Riccardo , Mico’ Umberto , Bellinghieri Paolo Micali , Di Nardo Floriana , Iannuzzo Giovanni , Cofini Vincenza , Di Orio Ferdinando , Zoccali Rocco 
Published: January 2010

ABSTRACT

Introduction
The relationship between anger and sexual behavior has never been thoroughly addressed, although it may deserve special attention because of its theoretical and practical consequences.

Aim
We were interested in determining the extent in which trait anger was associated with dysfunctional sexual behavior, taking into account possible gender differences.

Method
In this correlational study, 410 volunteers (199 men and 211 women) recruited from the students of the University of Messina, Italy, participated in the study. Median age of participants was 24 years. Men and women did not differ significantly in age (U = 18996, P = 0.606).

Main Outcome Measures
The individuals’ sexual behavior was assessed using the Sex and the Average Woman (or Man) questionnaire.

Results
We found no association between trait anger and either measure of sexual motivation: sexual excitement, r (396)=0.11, P = 0.016, and sexual fulfillment, r (396)=−0.06, P = 0.134. Also, gender had no effect on either of these two variables. Trait anger had a positive significant correlation with neurotic sex, r (396)=0.29, P &lt;0.002, impersonal sex, r (396)=0.20, P &lt;0.002, and aggressive sex, r (396)=0.28, P &lt;0.002. As we predicted, the associations between trait anger and these last three variables were stronger for men than for women (although only aggressive sex had a significant result). In multivariate analyses, impersonal sex ceased to be a significant correlate of trait anger.

Conclusions
Trait anger has a negative effect on sexual behavior. It seems to exert its worst effects on the nature of sexual interpersonal behavior rather than on sexual motivation. We found no effect of gender on sexual motivation. However, the positive correlation between anger and relational sexual behavior was stronger for men than for women.
Genetic Polymorphisms of 17β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase 3 and the Risk of Hypospadias
Authors: Sata Fumihiro , Kurahashi Norie , Ban Susumu , Moriya Kimihiko , Tanaka Kazuyuki D. , Ishizuka Mayumi , Nakao Hiroyuki , Yahata Yuichiro , Imai Hirohisa , Kakizaki Hidehiro , Nonomura Katsuya , Kishi Reiko 
Published: January 2010

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Hypospadias is a common congenital anomaly caused by incomplete fusion of urethral folds. Development of the urethra and external genital system in the male fetus is an androgen-dependent process. In this regard, enzymes 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 3 (17βHSD3, encoded by HSD17B3) and steroid 5α-reductase type 2 (encoded by SRD5A2) play crucial roles.

Aim
To investigate the possible associations between common polymorphisms in HSD17B3 as well as well-known V89L polymorphism in SRD5A2 and risk of hypospadias.

Methods
A case-control study was performed between 1999 and 2005. There were 89 Japanese boys with hypospadias and 291 newborn controls. We genotyped HSD17B3−1999T&gt;C, +10A&gt;G, +20A&gt;G, +139G&gt;A (V31I), +913G&gt;A (G289S), and SRD5A2+336G&gt;C (V89L) polymorphisms by allelic discrimination assay. We measured mRNA expression of the wildtype G289 allele and the mutant S289 allele of the HSD17B3 gene in the transfected human fetal kidney HEK293 cells.

Main Outcome Measures
Assessment of hypospadias including its severity and HSD17B3 and SRD5A2 genes using DNA blood samples: allele and genotype distribution of single nucleotide polymorphisms in these two genes in cases and controls.

Results
In our study, the risk of hypospadias was significantly higher in subjects carrying homozygous HSD17B3+913A (289S) alleles (odds ratio [OR]: 3.06; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.38–6.76). The risk of severe hypospadias was much higher in these subjects (OR: 3.93; 95% CI: 1.34–11.49). The mRNA expression levels of HSD17B3 G289 were higher than those of HSD17B3 S289 mutant (P &lt;0.001). In addition, the risk of severe hypospadias increased in boys carrying the SRD5A2+336C (89L) allele (OR: 3.19; 95% CI: 1.09–9.36).

Conclusions
These results suggest that the HSD17B3 G289S polymorphism may be a potential risk modifier for hypospadias. Our findings provide evidence that a certain genotype related to androgen production may potentiate risk of hypospadias.
A New Perfusion Model for Studying Erectile Function
Authors: Zhao Chen , Chae Han Jung , Kim Suhn Hee , Cui Wan Shou , Lee Sung Won , Jeon Ju-Hong , Park Jong Kwan 
Published: January 2010

ABSTRACTIntroductionThe present study introduces a newly devised in vitro penile perfusion model, which allows the measurement of changes in intracavernosum pressure (ICP), tension, and cyclic nucleotides in penile tissue in a one-step procedure.AimsWe compared the penile perfusion model with the classical penile strip chamber model to develop the new model.MethodsWe investigated the role of nitric oxide-cyclic guanosine monophosphate pathway in both systems activated by acetylcholine or electrical field stimulation (EFS). We measured cGMP (cyclic guanosine monophosphate) in the penile corpus cavernosum smooth muscle in both systems and perfusates in the penile perfusion model. We determined ICP, tension, and cGMP simultaneously in penile perfusion model during the experiments.Main Outcome MeasuresChanges of tension and cGMP in both models, and of cGMP in perfusates and of ICP in penile perfusion model.ResultsIn both systems, acetylcholine relaxed the phenylephrine-precontracted penile corpus cavernosum smooth muscle in a concentration-dependent manner. EFS decreased the tension in both models and ICP in the penile perfusion model in a frequency-dependent manner. Pretreatment with atropine, Nω nitro-L-arginine-methyl ester (L-NAME), and 1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ) blocked the acetylcholine-induced decrease in the tension in both models and ICP in penile perfusion model. Acetylcholine increased cGMP levels in the perfusate of penile perfusion model and the changes were attenuated by tetrodotoxin (TTX), atropine, L-NAME and ODQ. EFS increased cGMP levels of the penile corpus cavernosum smooth muscle of both models and the changes were attenuated by TTX, atropine, L-NAME, and ODQ.ConclusionThe results indicated that the responses of penile strip and perfused penile tissue to acetylcholine and EFS were very similar in both models in terms of tension and cGMP levels. Furthermore, the new model has more advantages over the classical penile strip chamber model in measuring intracavernosum metabolic changes and ICP without interruption of the procedure.
Long-Term Outcome of Surgical Treatment of Penile Fracture Complicated by Urethral Rupture
Authors: El-Assmy Ahmed , El-Tholoth Hossam S. , Mohsen Tarek , Ibrahiem El Housseiny I. 
Published: January 2010

ABSTRACT

Introduction
The combination of lesions of the penile urethra and the corpus cavernosum is rare and is likely to worsen the immediate and long-term prognosis.

Aim
To assess the late effects of penile fractures complicated by urethral rupture treated by immediate surgical intervention.

Methods
Fourteen patients with concomitant urethral rupture were treated surgically at our center. Those patients were seen in the outpatient follow-up clinic and were re-evaluated.

Main Outcome Measures
Sexual Health Inventory for Men questionnaire, local examination, uroflowmetry and penile color Doppler ultrasound.

Results
The most common cause of penile fracture is sexual intercourse (50%). The site of tunical tear was in the proximal shaft of the penis in 3 patients (21%) and in the mid of the shaft in 11 patients (79%). Urethral injury was localized at the same level as the corpus cavernosum tear in all cases; and it was partial in 11 cases and complete in 3. Long-term follow-up (mean=90 months) was available for 12 patients; among whom there was no complications in 4 (33%), painful erection in 1 (8%), erectile dysfunction in 2 (17%), and palpable fibrous nodule in 5 (47%). All patients had a normal urinary flow except one who developed relative urethral narrowing that required regular dilatation for 1 month.

Conclusions
The urethral injury complicating penile fracture is often partial and localized at the level of the corpora cavenosa tear. Standard treatment consists of immediate surgical repair of both urethral and corporal ruptures with no harmful long-term sequelae on urethral and erectile function in most of patients.
Modeling of the Humidity Effects on the Oxygen Absorption by Iron‐Based Scavengers
Authors: Polyakov Vladimir A. , Miltz Joseph 
Published: January 2010

ABSTRACT:  It has been reported in the scientific literature that moisture is required for oxygen absorption by iron‐based scavengers. The rate of oxygen absorption is crucial in oxygen‐sensitive foods. However, no quantitative correlations between the relative humidity and the oxygen absorption by these scavengers have been found in the scientific literature. The humidity level, the O2 concentration, and the gas composition inside the package are the major factors determining the isothermal O2 absorption kinetics. In the present study, the effect of RH on the oxygen absorption of an iron powder taken from an oxygen scavenger was investigated. This process was modeled, and correlations have been developed and compared to experimental results. The developed models describe well the effect of humidity on the oxygen absorption by the iron powder. It was found that an increase in the rate of oxygen absorption results in a decrease in the porosity, an increase in the specific surface area of the iron powder's corrosion products, and a decrease in the O2 diffusivity through the particles. The heat evolved during the exothermic reaction leads to a decrease in the amount of water adsorbed on the corrosion products. The results of the present study elucidate the effect of moisture on the O2 absorption by iron‐based oxygen scavengers and can be used for a proper design of packages intended for storage of foods and fruits and vegetables of intermediate and high water activity.Practical Application: Since humidity has an important role in determining the rate of oxygen absorption kinetics by iron‐based oxygen scavengers, using the models derived and presented in the present publication can bring upon a better understanding of the oxygen absorption process and a more efficient way of using oxygen scavengers in the packaging and storing of different oxygen sensitive foods.
Combination of Sodium Chlorite and Calcium Propionate Reduces Enzymatic Browning and Microbial Population of Fresh‐Cut “Granny Smith” Apples
Authors: Guan Wenqiang , Fan Xuetong 
Published: January 2010

ABSTRACT:  Tissue browning and microbial growth are the main concerns associated with fresh‐cut apples. In this study, effects of sodium chlorite (SC) and calcium propionate (CP), individually and combined, on quality and microbial population of apple slices were investigated. “Granny Smith” apple slices, dipped for 5 min in CP solutions at 0%, 0.5%, 1%, and 2% (w/v) either alone or in combination with 0.05% (w/v) SC, were stored at 3 and 10 °C for up to 14 d. Color, firmness, and microflora population were measured at 1, 7, and 14 d of storage. Results showed that CP alone had no significant effect on the browning of cut apples. Even though SC significantly inhibited tissue browning initially, the apple slices turned brown during storage at 10 °C. The combination of CP and SC was able to inhibit apple browning during storage. Samples treated with the combination of SC with CP did not show any detectable yeast and mold growth during the entire storage period at 3 °C. At 10 °C, yeast and mold count increased on apple slices during storage while CP reduced the increase. However, high concentrations of CP reduced the efficacy of SC in inactivating E. coli inoculated on apples. Overall, our results suggested that combination of SC with 0.5% and 1% CP could be used to inhibit tissue browning and maintain firmness while reducing microbial population.Practical Application: Apple slices, which contain antioxidants and other nutrient components, have emerged as popular snacks in food service establishments, school lunch programs, and for family consumption. However, the further growth of the industry is limited by product quality deterioration caused by tissue browning, short shelf‐life due to microbial growth, and possible contamination with human pathogens during processing. Therefore, this study was conducted to develop treatments to reduce microbial population and tissue browning of “Granny Smith” apple slices. Results showed that an antimicrobial compound, sodium chlorite, is effective in not only eliminating microbes but also inhibiting tissue browning of apple slices. However, the compound caused tissue softening and its antibrowning effect was short‐lived, lasting only for a few days. Combination of the compound with a calcium‐containing food additive was able to improve firmness and freshness of apple slices while reducing population of Escherichia coli artificially inoculated on samples and inhibiting the growth of yeast and mold during storage.
Texturized Dairy Proteins
Authors: Onwulata Charles I. , Phillips John G. , Tunick Michael H. , Qi Phoebi X. , Cooke Peter H. 
Published: January 2010

ABSTRACT:  Dairy proteins are amenable to structural modifications induced by high temperature, shear, and moisture; in particular, whey proteins can change conformation to new unfolded states. The change in protein state is a basis for creating new foods. The dairy products, nonfat dried milk (NDM), whey protein concentrate (WPC), and whey protein isolate (WPI) were modified using a twin‐screw extruder at melt temperatures of 50, 75, and 100 °C, and moistures ranging from 20 to 70 wt%. Viscoelasticity and solubility measurements showed that extrusion temperature was a more significant (P < 0.05) change factor than moisture content. The degree of texturization, or change in protein state, was characterized by solubility (R2= 0.98). The consistency of the extruded dairy protein ranged from rigid (2500 N) to soft (2.7 N). Extruding at or above 75 °C resulted in increased peak force for WPC (138 to 2500 N) and WPI (2.7 to 147.1 N). NDM was marginally texturized; the presence of lactose interfered with its texturization. WPI products extruded at 50 °C were not texturized; their solubility values ranged from 71.8% to 92.6%. A wide possibility exists for creating new foods with texturized dairy proteins due to the extensive range of states achievable. Dairy proteins can be used to boost the protein content in puffed snacks made from corn meal, but unmodified, they bind water and form doughy pastes with starch. To minimize the water binding property of dairy proteins, WPI, or WPC, or NDM were modified by extrusion processing. Extrusion temperature conditions were adjusted to 50, 75, or 100 °C, sufficient to change the structure of the dairy proteins, but not destroy them. Extrusion modified the structures of these dairy proteins for ease of use in starchy foods to boost nutrient levels. Practical Application: Dairy proteins can be used to boost the protein content in puffed snacks made from corn meal, but unmodified, they bind water and form doughy pastes with starch. To minimize the water binding property of dairy proteins, whey protein isolate, whey protein concentrate, or nonfat dried milk were modified by extrusion processing. Extrusion temperature conditions were adjusted to 50, 75, or 100 °C, sufficient to change the structure of the dairy proteins, but not destroy them. Extrusion modified the structures of these dairy proteins for ease of use in starchy foods to boost nutrient levels.
Ultraviolet Radiation Protection by a Beach Umbrella
Authors: Utrillas María P. , Martínez‐Lozano José A. , Nuñez Manuel 
Published: January 2010

AbstractA beach umbrella intercepts all direct UV irradiance, but only part of the diffuse component. Using a simple sky view factor model, we have determined the fraction of the hemispheric diffuse irradiance that is not intercepted by the umbrella. Assuming a sensor at the surface and close to the center of the umbrella, isotropic diffuse irradiance and for an umbrella of 80 cm radius and 100 cm high, our results show that approximately 34% of the incident horizontal irradiance is not intercepted by the umbrella. These results agree with irradiance measurements conducted with and without the umbrella. The model is next extended to examine receipt of UV radiation by a human figure in a vertical position, either standing or sitting.
Environmental occurrence and clinical impact of Vibrio vulnificus and Vibrio parahaemolyticus: a European perspective
Authors: Baker‐Austin Craig , Stockley Louise , Rangdale Rachel , Martinez‐Urtaza Jaime 
Published: January 2010

Summary Vibrio vulnificus and Vibrio parahaemolyticus are ubiquitous Gram‐negative bacterial pathogens found naturally in marine and estuarine waters, and are a leading cause of seafood‐associated bacterial illness. These pathogens are commonly reported in the USA and in many Asian countries, including China, Japan and Taiwan; however, there is growing concern that V. vulnificus and V. parahaemolyticus may represent an important and increasing clinical problem in Europe. Several factors underlie the need for a greater understanding of these non‐cholera vibrios within a European context. First, there is a growing body of evidence to suggest that V. vulnificus and V. parahaemolyticus infections are increasing, and tend to follow regional climatic trends, with outbreaks typically following episodes of unusually warm weather. Such findings are especially alarming given current predictions regarding warming of marine waters as a result of global climatic change. Second, a myriad of epidemiological factors may greatly increase the incidence as well as clinical burden of these pathogens – including increasing global consumption and trade of seafood produce coupled to an increase in the number of susceptible individuals consuming seafood produce. Finally, there is currently a lack of detailed surveillance information regarding non‐cholerae Vibrio infections in Europe, as these pathogens are not notifiable in many countries, which probably masks the true clinical burden of many human infections. This review will present a pertinent overview of both the environmental occurrence and clinical impact of V. vulnificus and V. parahaemolyticus in Europe.
SUPERCONDUCTING QUANTUM INTERFERENCE MAGNETOMETER FOR LARGE MULTICHANNEL SYSTEMS WITH LOW CROSSTALK LEVEL
Authors: VETTOLIERE A. , GRANATA C. , RUGGIERO B. , RUSSO M. 
Published: January 2010

Magnetometers based on Superconducting Quantum Interference Device (SQUID) are widely employed in high sensitivity magnetometry. In particular, new multichannel systems for biomagnetic applications require many sensors which are very close to each other giving the crosstalk disturbance between the neighboring channel. Here, we present experimental results about a fully integrated dc-SQUID magnetometer, based on niobium technology, having a suitable design which allows to reduce crosstalk due to both the feedback coil and wires. The crosstalk level measurements relative to a particular arrangement of sensors are reported. In such configuration, four magnetometers are placed over a square board 30 mm in side with a distance between their sensor centers of 14 mm. The measurements have been performed in a 4 He cryostat at T = 4.2 K in a flux-locked loop configuration using a readout electronics with a direct coupled scheme. The experimental data have shown a substantial reduction of crosstalk among neighboring sensors with respect to a traditional feedback coil. Furthermore, the field noise measurements have ensured that the new pickup and feedback coils design does not introduce any noise level degradation.
Conceptualizing Religion: Responses
Authors: Saler Benson 
Published: January 2010

AbstractI am very grateful to the commentators for the time and effort that they expended on my book. I do not imagine that it was easy to read. For over and beyond any unclarities generated by my prose, the perspective on categories celebrated in Conceptualizing Religion constitutes a departure from what most of us, from childhood on, have learned to accept as workable and conventional (if not actually mandated by a rational accommodation to the order of the world). To the extent that a certain disparity in viewpoints distances me from some of my readers, it imposes difficulties in following my argument. I appreciate the fact that the commentators have taken the book seriously enough to engage it. I respond to each of the commentators below, in alphabetical order.