bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crystal structures of two novel dye‐decolorizing peroxidases reveal a β‐barrel fold with a conserved heme‐binding motif
Authors: Zubieta Chloe , Krishna S. Sri , Kapoor Mili , Kozbial Piotr , McMullan Daniel , Axelrod Herbert L. , Miller Mitchell D. , Abdubek Polat , Ambing Eileen , Astakhova Tamara , Carlton Dennis , Chiu Hsiu‐Ju , Clayton Thomas , Deller Marc C. , Duan Lian , Elsliger Marc‐André , Feuerhelm Julie , Grzechnik Slawomir K. , Hale Joanna , Hampton Eric , Han Gye Won , Jaroszewski Lukasz , Jin Kevin K. , Klock Heath E. , Knuth Mark W. , Kumar Abhinav , Marciano David , Morse Andrew T. , Nigoghossian Edward , Okach Linda , Oommachen Silvya , Reyes Ron , Rife Christopher L. , Schimmel Paul , Bedem Henry van den , Weekes Dana , White Aprilfawn , Xu Qingping , Hodgson Keith O. , Wooley John , Deacon Ashley M. , Godzik Adam , Lesley Scott A. , Wilson Ian A.
Published: July 2007

BtDyP from Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron (strain VPI‐5482) and TyrA from Shewanella oneidensis are dye‐decolorizing peroxidases (DyPs), members of a new family of heme‐dependent peroxidases recently identified in fungi and bacteria. Here, we report the crystal structures of BtDyP and TyrA at 1.6 and 2.7 Å, respectively. BtDyP assembles into a hexamer, while TyrA assembles into a dimer; the dimerization interface is conserved between the two proteins. Each monomer exhibits a two‐domain, α+β ferredoxin‐like fold. A site for heme binding was identified computationally, and modeling of a heme into the proposed active site allowed for identification of residues likely to be functionally important. Structural and sequence comparisons with other DyPs demonstrate a conservation of putative heme‐binding residues, including an absolutely conserved histidine. Isothermal titration calorimetry experiments confirm heme binding, but with a stoichiometry of 0.3:1 (heme:protein). Proteins 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Structures of dimeric dihydrodiol dehydrogenase apoenzyme and inhibitor complex: Probing the subunit interface with site‐directed mutagenesis
Authors: Carbone Vincenzo , Endo Satoshi , Sumii Rie , Chung Roland P.‐T. , Matsunaga Toshiyuki , Hara Akira , El‐Kabbani Ossama
Published: July 2007

Dimeric dihydrodiol dehydrogenase (DD) catalyses the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADP+)‐dependent oxidation of trans‐dihydrodiols of aromatic hydrocarbons to their corresponding catechols. This is the first report of the crystal structure of the dimeric enzyme determined at 2.0 Å resolution. The tertiary structure is formed by a classical dinucleotide binding fold comprising of two βαβαβ motifs at the N‐terminus and an eight‐stranded, predominantly antiparallel β‐sheet at the C‐terminus. The active‐site of DD, occupied either by a glycerol molecule or the inhibitor 4‐hydroxyacetophenone, is located in the C‐terminal domain of the protein and maintained by a number of residues including Lys97, Trp125, Phe154, Leu158, Val161, Asp176, Leu177, Tyr180, Trp254, Phe279, and Asp280. The dimer interface is stabilized by a large number of intermolecular contacts mediated by the β‐sheet of each monomer, which includes an intricate hydrogen bonding network maintained in principal by Arg148 and Arg202. Site‐directed mutagenesis has demonstrated that the intact dimer is not essential for catalytic activity. The similarity between the quaternary structures of mammalian DD and glucose‐fructose oxidoreductase isolated from the prokaryotic organism Zymomonas mobilis suggests that both enzymes are members of a unique family of oligomeric proteins and may share a common ancestral gene. Proteins 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The X‐ray crystallographic structure and activity analysis of a Pseudomonas‐specific subfamily of the HAD enzyme superfamily evidences a novel biochemical function
Authors: Peisach Ezra , Wang Liangbing , Burroughs A. Maxwell , Aravind L. , Dunaway‐Mariano Debra , Allen Karen N.
Published: July 2007

The haloacid dehalogenase (HAD) superfamily is a large family of proteins dominated by phosphotransferases. Thirty‐three sequence families within the HAD superfamily (HADSF) have been identified to assist in function assignment. One such family includes the enzyme phosphoacetaldehyde hydrolase (phosphonatase). Phosphonatase possesses the conserved Rossmanniod core domain and a C1‐type cap domain. Other members of this family do not possess a cap domain and because the cap domain of phosphonatase plays an important role in active site desolvation and catalysis, the function of the capless family members must be unique. A representative of the capless subfamily, PSPTO_2114, from the plant pathogen Pseudomonas syringae, was targeted for catalytic activity and structure analyses. The X‐ray structure of PSPTO_2114 reveals a capless homodimer that conserves some but not all of the intersubunit contacts contributed by the core domains of the phosphonatase homodimer. The region of the PSPTO_2114 that corresponds to the catalytic scaffold of phosphonatase (and other HAD phosphotransfereases) positions amino acid residues that are ill suited for Mg+2 cofactor binding and mediation of phosphoryl group transfer between donor and acceptor substrates. The absence of phosphotransferase activity in PSPTO_2114 was confirmed by kinetic assays. To explore PSPTO_2114 function, the conservation of sequence motifs extending outside of the HADSF catalytic scaffold was examined. The stringently conserved residues among PSPTO_2114 homologs were mapped onto the PSPTO_2114 three‐dimensional structure to identify a surface region unique to the family members that do not possess a cap domain. The hypothesis that this region is used in protein–protein recognition is explored to define, for the first time, HADSF proteins which have acquired a function other than that of a catalyst. Proteins 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
CSB safety videos: A new and effective communication tool for accident investigation findings
Authors: Horowitz Daniel M. , Gilmour Sandy
Published: July 2007

Since 1998 the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) has issued detailed written reports based on investigations of major U.S. chemical accidents. While the reports are indispensable written records of the investigations, in many cases the audiences for these lengthy technical products have been limited. In 2005, the CSB introduced a new product: short safety videos of 5–10 min that summarize an investigation. The videos have been distributed primarily as streaming content over the Internet and also in DVD and downloadable formats. A centerpiece of each video is a 3D computer animation sequence that recreates a complex chemical accident. The videos also have included CSB board members and investigators discussing good industrial safety practices to prevent similar accidents. In the first 8 months of the video program, the audience for CSB accident investigations increased by more than one order of magnitude, and the results of the investigations are now being used for training, hazard analysis, and plant engineering in a variety of industries worldwide. © 2007 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog 26:177–179, 2007
A novel software tool for copolymer characterization by coupling of liquid chromatography with matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Weidner Steffen M. , Falkenhagen Jana , Maltsev Sergey , Sauerland Volker , Rinken Marian
Published: July 2007

The results of copolymer characterization by coupling of chromatography and matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF MS) techniques and subsequent calculation of copolymer composition using a novel software tool ‘MassChrom2D’ are presented. For high‐resolution mass analysis copolymer samples were fractionated by means of liquid adsorption chromatography (LAC). These fractions were investigated off‐line by MALDI‐TOF MS. Various mono‐n‐butyl ethers of polyethylene oxide‐polypropylene oxide copolymers (PEO‐co‐PPO) were investigated. As well as the copolymer composition presented in two‐dimensional plots, the applied approach can give additional hints on specific structure‐dependent separation conditions in chromatography. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identification of carbohydrates by matrix‐free material‐enhanced laser desorption/ionisation mass spectrometry
Authors: Hashir Muhammad Ahsan , Stecher Guenther , Bakry Rania , Kasemsook Saowapak , Blassnig Bernhard , Feuerstein Isabel , Abel Gudrun , Popp Michael , Bobleter Ortwin , Bonn Guenther K.
Published: July 2007

Matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionisation time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF‐MS) is a sensitive mass spectrometric technique which utilises acidic materials as matrices for laser energy absorption, desorption and ionisation of analytes. These matrix materials produce background signals particularly in the low‐mass range and make the detection and identification of small molecules difficult and nearly impossible. To overcome this problem this paper introduces matrix‐free material‐enhanced laser desorption/ionisation mass spectrometry (mf‐MELDI‐MS) for the screening and analysis of small molecules such as carbohydrates. For this purpose, 4,4′‐azo‐dianiline was immobilised on silica gel enabling the absorption of laser energy sufficient for successful desorption and ionisation of low molecular weight compounds. The particle and pore sizes, the solvent system for suspension and the sample preparation procedures have been optimised. The newly synthesised MELDI material delivered excellent spectra with regard to signal–to‐noise ratio and detection sensitivity. Finally, wheat straw degradation products and Salix alba L. plant extracts were analysed proving the high performance and excellent behaviour of the introduced material. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Risk sharing in supplier relations: an agency model for the Italian air‐conditioning industry
Authors: Camuffo Arnaldo , Furlan Andrea , Rettore Enrico
Published: July 2007

This study of risk sharing in the Italian high precision air conditioning (AC) industry confirms agency theory predictions that buyers absorb risk to a non‐negligible degree, and that they absorb more risk (a) the greater the supplier's environmental uncertainty, (b) the more risk averse the supplier, and (c) the less severe the supplier's moral hazard. The analyzed buyers accommodate for unforeseen and uncontracted‐for cost fluctuations, which is consistent with relational contract theory. The study clarifies the relationship between risk sharing and the supplier's size, technological capability, financial stability, and cost fluctuation. It also suggests how buyers may adjust their risk‐sharing strategy as suppliers grow, develop technological capabilities, and change financial structure. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Follow the small? Information‐revealing adoption bandwagons when observers expect larger firms to benefit more from adoption
Authors: Terlaak Ann , King Andrew A.
Published: July 2007

We extend understanding of information‐revealing bandwagons by considering a common condition under which adoption of a practice by small organizations, rather than large ones, has a disproportionate influence on future adoption propensities. We hypothesize that when the value of adoption increases with organizational size, smaller adopters have such disproportionate influence because they allow observers better to infer that adoption will be profitable for their own organization. We elaborate the theory by predicting that alternative information sources moderate the influence of smaller adopters. Empirically, we test our theory with longitudinal data on the adoption of the ISO 9000 quality management standard. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Alliance portfolios and firm performance: A study of value creation and appropriation in the U.S. software industry
Authors: Lavie Dovev
Published: July 2007

This study reveals the multifaceted contribution of alliance portfolios to firms' market performance. Extending prior research that has stressed the value‐creation effect of network resources, it uncovers how prominent partners may undermine a firm's capacity to appropriate value from its alliance portfolio. Analysis of a comprehensive panel dataset of 367 software firms and their 20,779 alliances suggests that the contribution of network resources to value creation varies with the complementarity of those resources. Furthermore, the relative bargaining power of partners in the alliance portfolio constrains the firm's appropriation capacity, especially when many of these partners compete in the focal firm's industry. In turn, the firm's market performance improves with the intensity of competition among partners in its alliance portfolio. These findings advance network research by highlighting the trade‐offs that alliance portfolios impose on firms that seek to manage and leverage their alliances. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
XRF applications in archaeometry: analysis of Marajoara pubic covers and pigments from the sarcophagus cartonage of an Egyptian mummy
Authors: Calza Cristiane , Anjos Marcelino J. , Bueno Maria Izabel M. S. , de Souza Sheila Mendonça , Brancaglion Jr Antonio , Lima Tânia A. , Lopes Ricardo Tadeu
Published: July 2007

This work presents two applications of XRF in archaeometry. The first case involved a female mummy from the Roman period, which is considered one of the most important pieces of the National Museum (Rio de Janeiro), because of its unconventional embalming with legs and arms swathed separately. The objective was to characterize the elemental composition of the pigments found in the sarcophagus cartonage and to verify whether they were in accordance with those used by Egyptian craftsmen in the cited period. The elements identified were Si, S, Cl, K, Ca, Ti, Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Sr, Hg, and Pb. In the second case, the composition of decorated pottery pubic covers (tangas) from the Marajoara culture was evaluated using EDXRF. Ceramics from the Marajó Island (at the mouth of Amazon River, Brazil) represent one of the most beautiful and sophisticated styles of the pre‐Columbian art. Decorated tangas were used by Marajoara girls probably as part of puberty rites. The analyzed samples were two tangas and four fragments from the National Museum's collection. One fragment (sample 22245) presented a different design pattern that seemed to indicate a different provenance. The elements identified were K, Ca, Ti, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, Ga, Rb, Sr, Y, Zr, and Pb. Multivariate statistical analysis was applied to the results. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparison of several types of enrichment for captive felids
Authors: Skibiel Amy L. , Trevino Heather S. , Naugher Ken
Published: July 2007

Enrichment can increase the complexity of the captive environment and possibly enhance captive animals' well‐being by stimulating active behaviors and reducing stereotypical behaviors commonly seen in zoo felids. In this study, three different enrichment items were added to outdoor enclosures of felids at the Montgomery Zoo to test their effects on activity levels and stereotypic pacing. Bones, frozen fish, and spices (cinnamon, chili powder, and cumin) were presented over a 3‐month period to six species of felids: cheetah, cougar, jaguar, lion, ocelot, and tiger. Proportion of time spent engaging in active behaviors and stereotypic pacing were compared before, during, and after treatments. All treatments resulted in a significant increase in activity level from baseline (bones: +15.59%; frozen fish: +35.7%; spices: +12.38%). Effects of enrichment items on activity levels were not sustained 7 days after removal. Proportion of time spent pacing significantly decreased during presentation of spices (−21.25%) and frozen fish (−26.58%), but not with the addition of bones. However, only the effect of frozen fish on stereotypic behavior was sustained 7 days after removal of the enrichment item. In conclusion, bones, spices, and frozen fish are inexpensive and easy‐to‐administer enrichment items that may be used to increase active behaviors of captive felids. Zoo Biol 26:371–381, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Structure of hydroperoxides obtained from autoxidized methyl linoleate
Authors: Privett O. S. , Lundberg W. O. , Khan N. A. , Tolberg Wesley E. , Wheeler Donald H.
Published: July 2007

A sample of debromination methyl linoleate has been autoxidized to a peroxide value of 671 m.e./kg. at approximately 0°C. in the dark. An essentially pure concentrate of methyl octadecadienoate monohy‐droperoxide was quantitatively separated; infrared and ultraviolet spectral studies were made on the peroxide concentrate and on the corresponding hydroxyl derivative obtained by reducing the peroxides with stannous chloride.

The infrared data showed no conjugated peroxides having geometric configurations other than cis, trans; the same data also showed that the peroxide concentrate contained at least 90% conjugated cis,trans forms. Calculations based on ultraviolet spectrophotometric methods also indicated that the peroxides were at least 90% conjugated. The remaining 10% of the sample is most likely nonconjugated diene hydroperoxide. Since analogous cis, cis conjugated dienes have not been isolated and their infrared and ultraviolet properties are unknown, their presence here in small amounts is possible. Ultraviolet and infrared spectra of the reduced compounds conform closely to those of the peroxides except for reduction in the intensity of the OH bond at 2.88 μ.

The infrared absorption spectra of the C−H structure and carbonyl groups of an essentially pure conjugated cis, trans methyl octadecadienoate monohydroperoxide were recorded, using a LiF prism.

The infrared absorption spectra of the C−H strucfraction isolated from methyl linoleate autoxidized in the dark at 24°C. indicated that appreciable amounts of conjugated trans, trans hydroperoxides were present, in addition to those of the cis, trans type. It is possible that the conjugated cis, trans isomers were formed originally but were labile at the higher temperature and in the presence of catalysts (e.g., peroxides) were transformed to the thermodynamically more stable conjugated trans, trans isomer.
An improved procedure for the purification of gossypol
Authors: King W. H. , Thurber F. H.
Published: July 2007

Methods of dissociating the gossypol‐acetic acid complex prepared from the butanone extract of defatted cottonseed flakes and methods of recrystallizing gossypol were studied. The study led to the development of an improved rapid procedure for the purification of gossypol.

In this procedure gossypol‐acetic acid is dissociated with aqueous sodium hydroxide containing sodium hydrosulfite; the gossypol is precipitated with hydrochloric acid, extracted with ether, and recrystallized from a mixture of ether and xylene. Two crystallizations by this procedure gave gossypol free from acetic acid and of a high degree of purity. Gossypol‐acetic acid of a high degree of purity was prepared by a modification of this procedure.

The degree of purity of the gossypol prepared by the improved procedure was determined by a number of tests, which are described. Spectral and titration curves for pure gossypol are presented, and standards of purity are suggested.

The molecular weight of gossypol and gossypolacetic acid prepared by the procedures described is approximately 518 and 578, respectively.
Significance of Ductal Margin Status in Patients Undergoing Surgical Resection for Extrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Sasaki Ryoko , Takeda Yuichiro , Funato Osamu , Nitta Hiroyuki , Kawamura Hidenobu , Uesugi Noriyuki , Sugai Tamotsu , Wakabayashi Go , Ohkohchi Nobuhiro
Published: July 2007

Objectives

The objective of this study was to determine whether carcinoma in situ at the bile duct margin is prognostically different from residual invasive carcinoma in patients with extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma.

Summary Background Data

Although there are many reports that the ductal margin status at bile duct resection stumps is a prognostic indicator in patients with extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, some patients who undergo resection with microscopic tumor involvement of the bile duct margin survive longer than expected.

Methods

A retrospective clinicopathological analysis of 128 patients who had undergone surgical resection for extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma was conducted. The status of the bile duct resection margin was classifiedas negative in 105 patients (82.0%), positive for carcinoma in situ in 12 patients (9.4%), and positive for invasive carcinoma in 11 patients (8.6%).

Results

Ductal margin status was an independent prognostic indicator by both univariate (p = 0.0022) and multivariate (p = 0.0105) analyses, along with lymph node metastasis. There was no significant difference between patients with a negative ductal margin and those with a positive ductal margin with carcinoma in situ (p = 0.5247). The 5‐year survival rate of patients with a positive ductal margin with carcinoma in situ (22.2%) was significantly better (p = 0.0241) than with invasive carcinoma (0%). There was a significant relationship between local recurrence and ductal margin status (p = 0.0401).

Conclusions

Among patients undergoing surgical resection for extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, invasive carcinoma at the ductal resection margins appears to have a significant relation to local recurrence and also a significant negative impact on survival, whereas residual carcinoma in situ does not. Discrimination whether carcinoma in situ or invasive carcinoma is present is important in clinical setting in which the resection margin at the ductal stump is positive.
Surgical Simulator Design and Development
Authors: Dankelman Jenny
Published: July 2007

With the introduction of minimally invasive surgery (MIS), it became necessary to develop training methods to learn skills outside the operating room. Several training simulators have become commercially available, but fundamental research into the requirements for effective and efficient training in MIS is still lacking. Three aspects of developing a training program are investigated here: what should be trained, how it should be trained, and how to assess the results of training. In addition, studies are presented that have investigated the role of force feedback in surgical simulators. Training should be adapted to the level of behavior: skill‐based, rule‐based, or knowledge‐based. These levels can be used to design and structure a training program. Extra motivation for training can be created by assessment. During MIS, force feedback is reduced owing to friction in the laparoscopic instruments and within the trocar. The friction characteristics vary largely among instruments and trocars. When force feedback is incorporated into training, it should include the large variation in force feedback properties as well. Training different levels of behavior requires different training methods. Although force feedback is reduced during MIS, it is needed for tissue manipulation, and therefore force application should be trained as well.
Modified Technique of Laparoscopic Intraperitoneal Hernioplasty for Irreducible Scrotal Hernias (Omentoceles): How to Remove the Hernial Contents
Authors: Palanivelu Chinnusamy , Rangarajan Muthukumaran , John Suviraj James
Published: July 2007

Introduction

The surgical repair of large irreducible scrotal hernias is, in general, technically difficult. Laparoscopic repair for these cases is controversial, although extraperitoneal and transperitoneal approaches have been described. We present a small series of patients with large irreducible groin hernias (omentoceles) treated by laparoscopy and a modification to facilitate complete removal of the omentum from the sac.

Materials and methods

We prefer laparoscopic transperitoneal repair for large irreducible scrotal hernias, with as much omentum as possible being excised. Then a small groin incision is made to excise the remaining omentum.

Results

All of the patients in this study were male, and their average age was 66 years (60–72 years). Eight patients presented with seromas at the first follow‐up; three required repeated aspiration, and the rest resolved spontaneously. There were no cases of wound or mesh infection/migration or recurrence after a follow‐up of 36 months.

Conclusions

At the beginning of our experience, if these hernias could not be reduced, we converted to the open procedure. Now, using the modification with which we remove the adherent omentum from the distal sac, there are no conversions. This technique could make life easier for laparoscopic surgeons who attempt repair of large irreducible scrotal hernias, a not uncommon occurrence in developing countries.
Reversal of Diabetes in Mice by Intrahepatic Injection of Bone‐derived GFP‐murine Mesenchymal Stem Cells Infected with the Recombinant Retrovirus‐carrying Human Insulin Gene
Authors: Xu Jian , Lu Yuhua , Ding Fei , Zhan Xi , Zhu Mingyan , Wang Zhiwei
Published: July 2007

Background

The objective of this study was to assess the effect of intrahepatic injection of bone‐derived green fluorescent protein (GFP)‐transgenic murine mesenchymal stem cells (GFP‐mMSCs) containing the human insulin(ins) gene in streptozotocin‐induced diabetic mice.

Methods

GFP‐mMSCs were isolated from the bone marrow of GFP transgenic mice, expanded, and transfected with a recombinant retrovirus MSCV carrying the human insulin gene. C57BL/6J mice were made diabetic by an intraperitoneal administration of 160 mg/kg streptozotocin (STZ), followed by intrahepatic injection of transfected GFP‐mMSCs. The variations in body weight and the blood glucose and serum insulin levels were determined after cell transplantation. GFP‐mMSCs survival and human insulin expression in liver tissues were examined by fluorescent microscopy and immunohistochemistry.

Results

The body weight in diabetic mice that received GFP‐mMSCs harboring the human insulin gene was increased by 6% within 6 weeks after treatment, and the average blood glucose levels in these animals were 10.40 ± 2.80 mmol/l (day 7) and 6.50 ± 0.89 mmol/l (day 42), respectively, while the average values of blood glucose in diabetic animals without treatment were 26.80 ± 2.49 mmol/l (day 7) and 25.40 ± 4.10 mmol/l (day 42), showing a significant difference (p < 0.05). Moreover, secretion of human insulin of GFP‐mMSCs in serum and animal liver was detected by radioimmunoassay (RIA) and immunohistochemistry (IHC).

Conclusions

Experimental diabetes could be relieved effectively for up to 6 weeks by intrahepatic transplantation of murine mesenchymal stem cells expressing human insulin. This study implies a novel approach of gene therapy for type I diabetes.
One‐stage Correction of Rectovestibular Fistula by Transfistula Anorectoplasty (TFARP)
Authors: Pratap Akshay , Yadav Rohit Prasad , Shakya Vikal Chandra , Agrawal Chandra Shekhar , Singh Satyendra Narayan , Sen Ritoban
Published: July 2007

Background

The present article details a new technique for the repair of rectovestibular fistula.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐five patients with rectovestibular fistula, between 13 days and 4 years of age underwent surgical correction by transfistula anorectoplasty (TFARP). The technique, described in detail, involves mobilization of the fistula and the rectum through the fistula and creation of a new anus in the anatomically normal site by preserving both the perineal skin bridge (skin between the neo‐anus and the posterior fourchette) and the levator muscle.

Results

The mean operating time was 85 min, and the mean hospital stay was 5 days. Moderate anal stenosis developed in 1 patient and was treated successfully by anal dilatations using Hegar dilators. A diverting colostomy was not required in any patient, and none of the patients developed rectal prolapse. Eleven patients who are now 3 years of age or older have voluntary bowel movements with good fecal continence scores. The 14 neonates and infants, who are still too young to be evaluated for continence, have symmetric anal contraction to stimulation and strong squeeze on digital rectal examination. The average number of bowel movements per day was three to five, without the need for any laxative or enema.

Conclusions

Transfistula anorectoplasty is a simple surgical procedure that does not divide the levator muscle or the perineal body. Preservation of these structures contributes significantly toward improvement of the aesthetic appearance of the perineum and of fecal continence.
Randomized Clinical Trial of the Effects of Perioperative Use of Immune‐enhancing Enteral Formula on Metabolic and Immunological Status in Patients Undergoing Esophagectomy
Authors: Sakurai Yoichi , Masui Toshihiko , Yoshida Ikuo , Tonomura Shuhei , Shoji Mitsutaka , Nakamura Yasuko , Isogaki Jun , Uyama Ichiro , Komori Yoshiyuki , Ochiai Masahiro
Published: July 2007

Background

Although perioperative immune‐enhancing enteral formula (IEEF) is effective to decrease the rate of infectious complications, it is not clear whether perioperative use of IEEF decreases the incidence of postoperative complications and improves clinical outcome in patients who have undergone esophagectomy. A prospective randomized clinical trial was performed to examine the effects of perioperative IEEF on nutritional and immunological status in patients with esophageal carcinoma who have been treated with esophagectomy.

Methods

A total of 30 patients were randomly assigned to two groups, each receiving 3 days of preoperative and postoperative enteral nutrition through jejunostomy started within 24 h after operation, either with immune‐enhancing enteral formula (group IEEF, n = 16) or with regular polymeric enteral formula (group C, n = 14). Preoperative and postoperative nutritional and immunological parameters and clinical outcome were examined.

Results

A significant increase in the serum concentration of ornithine was noted in group IEEF and it peaked at 5 days after surgery. The equivalent values were significantly lower in group C. There was no difference in serum dochosahexaic acid between the two groups. The n−3/n−6 fatty acid ratio in group IEEF was significantly higher than in group C at 7 days after surgery. Peripheral percent lymphocyte fraction and total lymphocyte count in group IEEF were both significantly higher than those in group C. While T cell fraction of peripheral lymphocytes in group IEEF at 3 days after surgery, B cell fraction in group IEEF at 5 and 7 days after surgery was significantly higher than those in group C, suggesting that perioperative IEEF caused a shift towards B cell proliferation.

Conclusions

Perioperative use of IEEF caused a significant increase in the total lymphocyte count at 3 and 5 days after operation and caused a shift toward B cell proliferation, which may possibly be beneficial to decrease the incidence of postoperative infectious complications.
A resource budget model to explain intraspecific variation in mast reproductive dynamics
Authors: Satake Akiko , Bjørnstad Ottar N.
Published: July 2007

Rowan,Sorbus aucupariaL., exhibits conspicuous geographic variation in its inter‐annual patterns of reproduction across southern Norway. Along the southern west coast, trees flower and produce clusters of succulent berries every other year, while in the east, trees mast every 3 years. We investigate two hypotheses for this variation: local adaptation to environmental conditions that favors different reproductive schedules at different locations or variation arising from single stereotyped reproductive strategy in the face of a geographic variation in productivity. To assess the theoretical plausibility of each of these hypotheses, we develop a refined resource budget model for mast reproduction. The refined model assumes that there is a lower bound on the amount of resource that may be allocated to reproduction, which allows the prediction of the relation between reproductive schedules and productivity. From the analysis of the model, we find that the observed geographic transition in rowan mast is caused if either productivity in the east is lower than that in the west or if plants in the eastern populations have evolved to pause reproduction until energy reserves are replenished to higher levels. The prediction by the productivity gradient hypothesis match with the empirical finding that the productivity is, in fact, likely to be lower in the east than the west, although we lack empirical data to test the likelihood of the local adaptation hypothesis. There is a need for experimental studies to clarify the validity of the local adaptation hypothesis.
Quality of US Soybean Meal Compared to the Quality of Soybean Meal from Other Origins
Authors: Thakur Maitri , Hurburgh Charles R.
Published: July 2007

Quality of soybeans and soybean meals (SBM) from non‐US and US origins were compared. The US SBM was more consistent with higher digestibility (by KOH solubility), lower fiber and better quality of protein (by essential amino acid levels) than SBM of other major export origins (Argentina, Brazil and India). Protein quality carried through from whole soybeans to SBM, for a given origin. While the protein content was higher for the SBM from Brazil, the percentage of total digestible amino acids was highest for the SBM from the US and China. The US SBM had the highest content (total) of five essential amino acids for both poultry and swine feed uses, which when coupled with higher digestibility, would give US meal an advantage in rations balanced on amino acids. The mean particle size for all SBM from all origins was within the desirable range specified by nutritionists. The US soybeans were lower in protein than Brazilian soybeans, but higher than Argentine soybeans. The crude protein disadvantage of US soybeans was offset by higher concentrations of the essential amino acids in the lower protein soybeans. The US soybeans were lower in oil content than soybeans from either of the South American origins. Average protein and oil contents of US soybeans were consistent with the 2003 and 2004 annual soybean quality surveys. The US SBM held an advantage in digestibility and concentration of key amino acids in all three studies.
Genetik der Alopecia areata
Authors: Betz R.C. , Hillmer A.M. , Nöthen M.M.
Published: July 2007

Die Alopecia areata (AA) stellt mit einer Lebenszeitprävalenz von etwa 1–2% in beiden Geschlechtern die nach der androgenetischen Alopezie zweithäufigste Form von Haarausfall dar. Das klinische Erscheinungsbild ist typischerweise ein kreisrunder Ausfall des Kopfhaars, der Haarausfall kann aber auch an anderen Kopf- oder Körperstellen auftreten und im ungünstigsten Fall die ganze Körperbehaarung betreffen (Alopecia universalis). Der Verlauf der Erkrankung ist sehr variabel und die therapeutische Situation vielfach unbefriedigend. Das Wiederholungsrisiko bei Kindern wird mit etwa 5–6% angegeben. Die Genese der AA ist multifaktoriell mit einem signifikanten Beitrag genetischer Faktoren. Auf der pathophysiologischen Ebene werden Autoimmunmechanismen als ursächlich vermutet, die auf der Basis einer genetischen Disposition die Physiologie des Haarfollikels beeinflussen. In Übereinstimmung mit der Autoimmunhypothese sind replizierte Assoziationen mit Allelen des HLA-Komplexes sowie dem W620-Allel des PTPN22-Gens („protein tyrosine phosphatase non-receptor type 22“) berichtet worden. Eine genomweite Kopplungsuntersuchung weist auf weitere chromosomale Regionen hin, wobei dort bislang noch keine Suszeptibilitätsgene identifiziert werden konnten. Zusätzliche Hinweise auf beteiligte Gene erhofft man sich von der Untersuchung verschiedener Nagetiermodelle. Von einer umfassenden Identifizierung der krankheitsassoziierten Gene beim Menschen erhofft man sich neue Ansatzpunkte für Therapien und Möglichkeiten der Prävention.
Une histoire de l'imaginaire social par le livre en france au premier XIXe siècle
Authors: Lyon-Caen Judith
Published: July 2007

L'histoire sociale du XIXe siècle ne semble pouvoir s'écrire sans bibliothèque littéraire, sans recours aux descriptions laissées par la littérature de l'époque. Tentant de convertir cette fatalité en objet de réflexion, cet article veut suggérer combien les méthodes et les sources de l'histoire du livre et de la lecture peuvent contribuer à la constitution d'une histoire sociale du XIXe siècle plus réflexive. Il souligne la prolifération de descriptions sociales dans les années 1830 et 1840, où se forge à proprement parler un imaginaire social, un répertoire de représentations textuelles et iconographiques de la société. L'étude des appropriations dont ces textes furent l'objet- appropriations de lecteurs ordinaires ou débats critiques - montre à la fois combien la littérature réaliste a pu alors contribuer à la formulation des identités et des expériences sociales singulières d'individus ou de groupes et combien la question de la pertinence sociologique de ces fictions était âprement discutée. Le roman réaliste du premier XIXe siècle forme ainsi un élément majeur de la production du« social »et de ses images dans un univers culturel où la littérature était largement créditée d'une capacité à dire la vérité du monde.
Le poète évêque, le moine, le financier et l'académicien
Authors: Schapira Nicolas
Published: July 2007

Cet article s'attache à comprendre ensemble plusieurs types d'épistolarité du xvne siècle étudiés d'ordinaire séparément: des lettres d'affaires, des lettres de dévotion, des lettres « littéraires »,échangées par un réseau d'amis. Observer ces lettres comme des objets mis en jeu dans le monde social selon diverses modalités de publication - dont la moindre n'est pas la circulation manuscrite - permet de saisir une politique de l'écriture épistolaire qui passe, pour tous les scripteurs, par un effort pour faire reconnaître leur capacité dans l'art d'écrire. Il s'agit bien là d'une mobilisation de l'institution littéraire, mais au service de carrières et d'opérations très diverses: il est question du règlement d'un conflit qui divise un ordre religieux, de la légitimation d'un professionnel des lettres, de la mobilisation sociale d'une figure de dévot, de la négociation d'une carrière d'évêque appuyée sur des réseaux mondains. Ces affaires permettent de saisir un réseau social en action, et de mieux situer le rôle spécifique qu'y tiennent les professionnels des lettres
Philipp frank und die verbindung wien-paris
Authors: Nemeth Elisabeth
Published: July 2007

Der Logische Empirismus hat in der intellektuellen Welt Frankreichs fast keine Spuren hinterlassen, obwohl die Gruppe sich bei zwei Kongressen 1935 und 1937 der intellektuellen Ôffentlichkeit in Paris prasentierte. Otto Neurath, prominentes Mitglied des «Wiener Kreises », bereitete die Auftritte der Logischen Empiristen in Paris vor. In seiner umfangreichen Korrespondenz manifestieren sich zahlreiche Spannungen sowohl innerhalb der Gruppe ais auch mit ihren Kooperationspartnem in Paris. Der Physiker Philipp Frank war mit der wissenschaftlichen Landschaft in Frankreich viel besser vertraut ais Neurath. Er hat Neurath schon damais darauf aufmerksam gemacht, dass die Rolle Louis Rougiers ais « Botschafter » des Empirismus für die Rezeption in Frankreich problematisch sein konnte. Er driingte Neurath, die Verbindung mit anderen Wissenschaftlem und Philosophen, vor allem mit Henri Berr und dem Centre de synthèse zu verstlirken.
Novel clusters of highly expressed genes accompany genomic amplification in breast cancers
Authors: Ito Emi , Honma Reiko , Yanagisawa Yuka , Imai Jun-ichi , Azuma Sakura , Oyama Tetsunari , Ohwada Susumu , Akiyama Tetsu , Nomura Nobuo , Inoue Jun-ichiro , Watanabe Shinya , Semba Kentaro
Published: July 2007

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide. To identify novel amplicons involved in the mammary carcinogenesis, we constructed gene expression maps of chromosomes in 35 human breast cancer cell lines and extracted six candidate amplicons containing highly expressed gene clusters on chromosomes 8, 17, and X. We also confirmed the presence of the identified amplicons in clinical specimens by Southern blot analysis. Highly expressed genes identified in the amplicons will contribute to the characterization of breast cancer phenotypes, thereby providing novel targets for anticancer therapies.
Investigating protein structural plasticity by surveying the consequence of an amino acid deletion from TEM‐1 β‐lactamase
Authors: Simm Alan M. , Baldwin Amy J. , Busse Kathy , Jones D. Dafydd
Published: July 2007

While the deletion of an amino acid is a common mutation observed in nature, it is generally thought to be disruptive to protein structure. Using a directed evolution approach, we find that the enzyme TEM‐1 β‐lactamase was broadly tolerant to the deletion mutations sampled. Circa 73% of the variants analysed retained activity towards ampicillin, with deletion mutations observed in helices and strands as well as regions important for structure and function. Several deletion variants had enhanced activity towards ceftazidime compared to the wild‐type TEM‐1 demonstrating that removal of an amino acid can have a beneficial outcome.
Protein–protein interactions among human lens acidic and basic β‐crystallins
Authors: Liu Bing-Fen , Liang Jack J.-N.
Published: July 2007

Human lens β‐crystallin contains four acidic (βA1 → βA4) and three basic (βB1 → βB3) subunits. They oligomerize in the lens, but it is uncertain which subunits are involved in the oligomerization. We used a two‐hybrid system to detect protein–protein interactions systematically. Proteins were also expressed for some physicochemical studies. The results indicate that all acidic–basic pairs (βA–βB) except βA4‐βBs pairs show strong hetero‐molecular interactions. For acidic or basic pairs, only two pairs (βA1–βA1 and βA3–βA3) show strong self‐association. βA2 and βA4 show very weak self‐association, which arises from their low solubility. Confocal fluorescence microscopy shows enormous protein aggregates in βA2‐ or βA4‐crystallin transfected cells. However, coexpression with βB2‐crystallin decreased both the number and size of aggregates. Circular dichroism indicates subtle differences in conformation among β‐crystallins that may have contributed to the differences in interactions.
Xyr1 receives the lactose induction signal and regulates lactose metabolism in Hypocrea jecorina
Authors: Stricker Astrid R. , Steiger Matthias G. , Mach Robert L.
Published: July 2007

This study reports the vital regulatory influence of Xyr1 (xylanase regulator 1) on the transcription of hydrolytic enzyme‐encoding genes and hydrolase formation on lactose in Hypocrea jecorina. While the transcription of the xyr1 gene itself is achieved by release of carbon catabolite repression, the transcript formation of xyn1 (xylanase 1) is regulated by an additional induction mechanism mediated by lactose. Xyr1 has an important impact on lactose metabolism by directly activating xyl1 (xylose reductase 1) transcription and indirectly influencing transcription of bga1 (β‐galactosidase 1). The latter is achieved by regulating the conversion of d‐galactose to the inducing carbon source galactitol.
Acetylcholine exerts additive and permissive but not synergistic effects with insulin on glycogen synthesis in hepatocytes
Authors: Hampson Laura J. , Agius Loranne
Published: July 2007

Parasympathetic (cholinergic) innervation is implicated in the stimulation of hepatic glucose uptake by portal vein hyperglycaemia. We determined the direct effects of acetylcholine on hepatocytes. Acute exposure to acetylcholine mimicked insulin action on inactivation of phosphorylase, stimulation of glycogen synthesis and suppression of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase mRNA levels but with lower efficacy and without synergy. Pre‐exposure to acetylcholine had a permissive effect on insulin action similar to glucocorticoids and associated with increased glucokinase activity. It is concluded that acetylcholine has a permissive effect on insulin action but cannot fully account for the rapid stimulation of glucose uptake by the portal signal.
Mesenchymal stem cells attenuate cardiac fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis through paracrine actions
Authors: Ohnishi Shunsuke , Sumiyoshi Hideaki , Kitamura Soichiro , Nagaya Noritoshi
Published: July 2007

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) transplantation has been shown to decrease fibrosis in the heart; however, whether MSC directly influence the function of cardiac fibroblasts (CFB) remains unknown. MSC‐conditioned medium significantly attenuated proliferation of CFB compared with CFB‐conditioned medium. MSC‐conditioned medium upregulated antiproliferation‐related genes such as elastin, myocardin and DNA‐damage inducible transcript 3, whereas CFB‐conditioned medium upregulated proliferation‐related genes such as alpha‐2‐macrogrobulin and v‐kit Hardy–Zuckerman 4 feline sarcoma viral oncogene homolog. MSC‐conditioned medium significantly downregulated type I and III collagen expression, and significantly suppressed type III collagen promoter activity. MSC may exert paracrine anti‐fibrotic effects at least in part through regulation of CFB proliferation and collagen synthesis.
Detection of parasitism in diamondback moth,Plutella xylostella(L.), using differential melanization and coagulation reactions
Authors: Li D. , Schellhorn N. , Schmidt O.
Published: July 2007

Diamondback moth (DBM),Plutella xylostella, is known for causing damage toBrassicacrops and developing resistance to chemical and biological pesticides; it has become one of the most difficult pests to manage in many regions around the world. The only way to reduce reliance on pesticides is to maximize the role of natural control agents for integrated pest management programs and be able to incorporate the mortality from control agents into pest control decision-making. More than 90 hymenopterous parasitoids are associated with DBM worldwide; among them,Diadegma semiclausum, is a major endoparasitoid ofP. xylostella. To optimize parasitism of pests in pest control decision-making, it is necessary to develop rapid and simple methods for distinguishing parasitized from non-parasitized larvae in the field. Here we report on a number of diagnostic tools to identify parasitized larvae. One is based on differential melanization reactions in hemolymph due to immune suppression in parasitized larvae. The lack of coagulation reactions in hemolymph provides a simple initial test, where squashing a non-parasitized larva onto nitrocellulose membrane traps chlorophyll-containing gut content on the membrane leaving a green dot of clotted gut material. However, in immune-suppressed parasitized larvae, the gut content was washed away in absence of coagulation reactions and the membrane lacks a green dot. This tool alone or combined with others, allows quick detection of parasitized caterpillars in the field. We further showed that the antibody MAb 9A5 can be used to detectD. semiclausumparasitized larvae of DBM in Western blots.