bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Docosahexaenoic acid supplementation in vegetarians effectively increases omega‐3 index: A randomized trial
Authors: Geppert Julia , Kraft Veronika , Demmelmair Hans , Koletzko Berthold
Published: January 2007

Low red blood cell (RBC) membrane content of FPA+DHA (hereafter called omega‐3 index) has recently been described as an indicator for increased risk of death from coronary heart disease. The relationship between plasma and RBC FA, focusing on omega‐3 index, and the response to DHA supplementation were investigated in a double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled, intervention study. Healthy vegetarians (87 f, 17 m) consumed daily a microalgae oil from Ulkenia sp. (0.94 g DHA/d) or olive oil (placebo) for 8 wk. DHA supplementation significantly increased DHA in RBC total lipids (7.9 vs. 4.4 wt%), in RBC PE (12.1 vs. 6.5 wt%), in RBC PC (3.8 vs. 1.4 wt%), and in plasma phospholipids (PL) (7.4 vs. 2.8 wt%), whereas EPA levels rose to a much lesser extent. Microalgae oil supplementation increased the omega‐3 index from 4.8 to 8.4 wt%. After intervention, 69% of DHA‐supplemented subjects (but no subject of the placebo group) reached an omega‐3 index above the desirable value of 8 wt%. Omega‐3 index and EPA+DHA levels in RBC PE, RBC PC, and plasma PL were closely correlated (r always >0.9). We conclude that an 8‐wk supplementation with 0.94 g DHA/d from microalgae oil achieves a beneficial omega‐3 index of ≥8% in most subjects with low basal EPA+DHA status. RBC total FA analyses can be used instead of RBC lipid fraction analyses for assessing essential FA status, e.g., in clinical studies.
Antioxidant activity of various teas against free radicals and LDL oxidation
Authors: Ohmori Reiko , Iwamoto Tamami , Tago Motomi , Takeo Tadakazu , Unno Tomonori , Itakura Hiroshige , Kondo Kazuo
Published: January 2007

Tea is a widely consumed beverage throughout the world. We assessed the antioxidant activity of six teas, including the aqueous extracts of green tea and oolong tea (Camellia sinensis), tochu (Eucommia ulmoides), Gymnema sylvestre, Japanese mugwort (Artemisia princeps), and barley (Hordeum vulgare), against 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals and LDL oxidation, and examined the association of LDL oxidizability with the plasma catechin levels in 10 healthy volunteers with a single dose of 5 g green tea powder. In vitro, the inhibitory effects of DPPH radicals and LDL oxidation were found to be strongest in the extract of green tea and weakest in that of barley. After the ingestion of green tea powder, the lag time increased from basal 52.2±4.1 to 60.3±4.2 min at 1 h and 59.5±4.1 min at 2 h, and then returned to the baseline lag time (51.9±1.4 at 4 h and 52.1±4.7 min at 6 h). Regarding the plasma catechin levels, epigallocatechingallate and epicatechingallate significantly increased from basal 3.7±1.3 and 0.8±0.8 ng/mL to 65.7±11.6 and 54.6±12.6 ng/mL at 1 h, and 74.4±18.6 and 49.4±7.1 ng/mL at 2 h, respectively. Green tea therefore showed the strongest antioxidant activity among the six different teas, and the inhibitory effects of green tea on LDL oxidation depended on the plasma catechin levels.
Antioxidant activity of flavonoids isolated from Scutellaria rehderiana
Authors: Su Ya‐Lun , Leung Lai Kwok , Bi Yu‐Rong , Huang Yu , Chen Zhen‐Yu
Published: January 2007

The present study examined the antioxidant activity in heated canola oil of hexane, acetone, and methanol extracts of dry roots of gansu huangqin (Scutellaria rehderiana) as well as six flavonoids isolated from the acetone and methanol extracts. The oxidation was conducted at 95°C by monitoring oxygen consumption and decreases in both linoleic and α‐linolenic acids. The acetone extract was most effective in inhibiting oxidation of canola oil, followed by the methanol extract. The antioxidant activity of gansu huangqin acetone extract was dose‐dependent. Among the six flavonoids, baicalein and ganhuangenin were more effective than butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) in protecting canola oil from oxidation. The present results suggest that the acetone extract of this root may be a potential source of natural antioxidants for use in processed foods.
Behavior of phenolic antioxidants in a partitioned medium: structure—Activity relationship
Authors: Cuvelier Marie‐Elisabeth , Bondet Vincent , Berset Claudette
Published: January 2007

The behavior of phenolic antioxidants is studied in a partitioned medium, composed of linoleic acid dispersed in an aqueous phase. Their efficiency is measured by the diene production during oxidation, induced by Fe (II)/ascorbic acid at 30°C. With a linoleic acid/Fe2+ molar ratio of 10 and a Fe2+/ascorbic acid molar ratio of 23, a steady‐state propagation rate is reached after 1 h for up to 15 h. The antioxidants cannot avoid the early dienes (30–40% of total dienes), resulting from the inducing reactions; however, they can stop all the dienes produced during propagation reactions by acting on ROO. The inhibition values reveal a great difference between the antioxidants, depending on their structure (number of hydroxyl groups or chelating sites) and on their polarity, confirming the “polar paradox”. Thus, α‐tocopherol, butylated hydroxytoluene, butylated hydroxyanisole, and isoeugenol appear to be the best antioxidants, but rosmarinic and caffeic acids, generally potent antioxidants, present a weak efficiency. Surprisingly, in such a metal‐induced system, the chelator activity seems to play a minor role.
Squalene in oils determined as squalane by gas—liquid chromatography after hydrogenation of methyl esters
Authors: Ackman R. G. , Macpherson E. J. , Timmins A.
Published: January 2007

Low levels (≤0.1%) of squalene were anticipated in oils from the blubber of the harp seal Phoca groenlandica. The traditional roule of saponification and analytical examination of the total unsaponifiables was unattractive. A method developed for squalene in olive oil, reportedly present in the range of 0.3–0.7%, was based on total conversion of the oil to methyl ester of fatty acids by alkali transesterification, followed by hydrogenation over Adam's catalyst (PtO2). The analysis of the fully saturated methyl esters and any squalane produced concurrently was by gas—liquid chromatography. This method was satisfactory for the small amounts, 0.03% or less, of squalene in seal oil and is also illustrated for olive oil. A flame‐ionization detector excessive response of approximately 25% was observed for all levels of squalene tested. The calculated factor of 1.22 should be applied to the peak area for squalane due to the higher response of hydrocarbons relative to the methyl esters of fatty acids and the system of oil components if reporting as fatty acids.
Analysis of nonvolatile lipid oxidation products in vegetable oils by normal‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrometric detection
Authors: Steenhorst‐Slikkerveer Lisette , Louter Arjan , Janssen Hans‐Gerd , Bauer‐Plank Christina
Published: January 2007

Nonvolatile triacylglyceride (TAG) oxidation products play an important role in the oxidative degradation of lipids. They serve as a reservoir of oxygen‐containing species and hence can act as off‐flavor precursors or as initiators for further oxidation reactions. Possible nonvolatile lipid oxidation products are TAG with a hydroperoxy, hydroxy, epoxy, or oxo (ketone or aldehyde) group or combination of these groups. The breakdown of TAG hydroperoxides yields nonvolatile glyceride species with two intact fatty acid chains and one short chain mostly ending in an aldehyde or hydroxy group (2 1/2 glycerides). By means of normal‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with mass spectrometric (MS) detection, non‐volatile lipid oxidation products can be separated according to polarity. This results in separation into classes of TAG oxidation products, such as epoxy‐TAG, oxo‐TAG, hydroperoxy‐TAG, hydroxy‐TAG and 2 1/2 glycerides, which can be identified using selected ion chromatograms. The retention times of TAG oxidation products on the normal‐phase HPLC system and the signal intensity of the MS detector are stable enough to enable quantitative analysis based on external calibration. The normal‐phase HPLC‐MS method is very suitable for the characterization and quantitation of nonvolatile TAG oxidation products in oxidized TAG reference compounds as well as in real oils or oil phases isolated from emulsions, spreads, or other fat‐based food products. This method can give detailed information for the study of lipid oxidation mechanisms.
Fatty acid and triacylglycerol compositions of seed oils of five Amaranthus accessions and their comparison to other oils
Authors: Jahaniaval F. , Kakuda Y. , Marcone M. F.
Published: January 2007

This paper reports the fatty acid and triacylglycerol (TAG) compositions of five Amaranthus accessions (RRC1011, R149, A.K343, A.K432, and A. K433) representing two species and a cross between one of these and a third species. Seed oils of these were analyzed by gas chromatography and reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography, and their compositional properties compared with buck‐wheat (Fagopyrum esculentum), corn (Zea mays), rice bran (Oryza sativa), soybean (Glycine max L. Merr.), sesame (Sesamum indicum), quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa), and cottonseed (Gossypium hirsutum) oils. All Amaranthus accessions were relatively high in palmitic (21.4–23.8%) and low in oleic (22.8–31.5%) and linolenic (0.65–0.93%) acids when compared to most of the grain and seed oils. The fatty acid composition of Amaranthus accessions K343, K433, and K432 (group I) were different from R149 and RRC1011 (group II) in mono and polyunsaturated fatty acids, but the saturate/unsaturate (S/U) ratios were very similar. All Amaranthus accessions were similar in TAG type, but showed slight differences in percentage. High similarities in UUU, UUS, and USS composition were observed among Amaranthus K343, K433 and K432, and between R149 and RRC1011. The fatty acid compositions of Amaranthus oil (group I) and cottonseed oil were similar, but their TAG compositions were different. The grain and oilseed oils were different from each other and from the Amaranthus accessions oils in terms of fatty acid composition, S/U, and TAG ratios. The UUU, UUS, and USS percentages were very diverse in grain and seed oils. The percentages of squalene in the TAG sample from the Amaranthus accessions were 8.05% in K343, 11.10% in K433, 11.19% in K432, 9.96% in R149, and 9.16% in RRC1011. Squalene was also tentatively identified in quinoa and ricebran oils at levels of 3.39 and 3.10%, respectively.
Use of chlorophyll and carotenoid pigment composition to determine authenticity of virgin olive oil
Authors: Gandul‐Rojas Beatriz , Cepero María Roca‐L. , Mínguez‐Mosquera M. Isabel
Published: January 2007

The chlorophyll and carotenoid pigment profile of 50 mono‐variety virgin olive oils was used to develop an index of authenticity for the product. The presence of carotenoids other than those described, or chlorophyll derivatives at another level of degradation, were found to be determing elements of this index for “virgin” olive oil quality. In addition, the ratio of chlorophyll/carotenoid should be around 1, and the ratio of minor carotenoids/lutein should be about 0.5, with a limited variability. These characteristics may be expected of virgin olive oil in general and are independent of variety. Finally, the percentage of lutein, violaxanthin, and total pigment content may be used to distinguish between mono‐variety virgin olive oils.
Demulsification of oil‐in‐water emulsion under freezing conditions: Effect of crystal structure modifier
Authors: Harada Takuya , Yokomizo Kazuhisa
Published: January 2007

The demulsification of oil‐in‐water (O/W) emulsions under freezing conditions is connected to fat crystallization in the oil droplet. Therefore, demulsification can be prevented by the use of oil with a low melting point, and also by lowering the O/W ratio. However, an oil with a low melting point, such as sunflower, is rather expensive, and the O/W ratio has a significant effect on the texture of emulsions. We searched for an oil that is suitable for the production of a freeze‐stable emulsion and found that soybean oil has unique characteristics. Normally, emulsions are more unstable at lower temperatures; soybean oil emulsion is unstable at −10°C and stable at −20°C. This unique characteristic results from the following two reasons. First, the solid fat content of soybean oil is almost the same at −10 and −20°C. Second, small crystals form a larger network over a period of time, and the higher temperature promotes faster restructuring. This structure formation was microscopically observed with the use of a thermostated stage. Structure formation was suppressed with the addition of a crystal structure modifier, polyglycerol fatty acid full ester, which also suppressed coalescence.
Synthesis and characterization of some long‐chain diesters with branched or bulky moieties
Authors: Knothe Gerhard , Dunn Robert O. , Shockley Michael W. , Bagby Marvin O.
Published: January 2007

Several novel fatty diesters with bulky moieties were synthesized by esterification of mono‐ or bifunctional fatty acids or with mono‐ or bifunctional alcohols using p‐toluenesulfonic acid as catalyst. They were characterized by 1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance as well as positive chemical ionization (PCl) mass spectrometry. The PCl mass spectra of the resulting diol diesters and diacid diesters are discussed and compared. The compounds were investigated as potential additives for improving the cold flow properties of vegetable oil esters used as biodiesel.
Synthesis of cis‐12, 13‐epoxy‐cis‐9‐octadecenol and 12(13)‐hydroxy‐cis‐9‐octadecenol from vernonia oil using lithium aluminum hydride
Authors: Elhilo Eisa B. , Anderson Melissa A. , Ayorinde Folahan O.
Published: January 2007

Reduction of vernonia oil methyl esters (VOME) into epoxy fatty alcohol and diols was achieved with lithium aluminum hydride (LAH), under reflux and room temperature conditions, by using hexane and tetrahydrofuran (THF) as solvents. The reactions of VOME with LAH in hexane produced cis‐12,13‐epoxy‐cis‐9‐octadecenol as a major product with an isolated yield of 73.6%, whereas the reaction with LAH in THF gave isomers of 12(13)‐hydroxy‐cis‐9‐octadecenol as the major products with an isolated yield of 95.1%. LAH was similarly reacted with vernonia oil (VO) to give the same products in lower yields. 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), 13C NMR, gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry, and infrared were used to characterize these products.

This study demonstrates the ability to control the reactivity of the epoxy functionality in VO or VOME with the choice of polar or nonpolar solvents, and extends the range of oleochemicals that can be derived from vernonia oil.
Soy protein biopolymers cross‐linked with glutaraldehyde
Authors: Park S. K. , Bae D. H. , Rhee K. C.
Published: January 2007

Biopolymers from soy protein isolate (SPI) crosslinked with glutaraldehyde (GA) were prepared. Surface hydrophobicities of SPI‐GA biopolymers and SPI were 4.4 and 11.5, respectively. The solubility profile of SPI was slightly higher than that of SPI‐GA biopolymers. Foaming capacities of SPI‐GA biopolymers (23 mL) were higher than that of SPI (19 mL), but similar to egg white (22 mL). Foaming stabilities of SPI‐GA biopolymers (120 min) were significantly higher than those of SPI (40 min) and egg white (98 min). The emulsifying properties of SPI‐GA biopolymers were lower than those of SPI and bovine serum albumin (P>0.05). Tensile strength (TS) and elongation at break (ETB) of SPI‐GA biopolymer films were significantly higher than those of glycerol‐plasticized soy protein films. TS and ETB of SPI‐GA biopolymer films increased with increasing GA concentrations. GA treatment intensified yellowness of SPI‐GA biopolymer films. SPI‐GA biopolymers may have potential use for biodegradable packaging materials.
Preparation and characterization of rice protein isolates
Authors: Shih Frederick F. , Daigle Kim W.
Published: January 2007

Various enzymes were used to treat a protein‐enriched rice flour for the production of rice protein isolates. The rice flour containing 49% protein was a by‐product from the processing of brown rice for syrup production. The treatment sequence of α‐amylase followed by glucoamylase was most effective, resulting in a product with 85% protein content. The product was then treated with a mixture of cellulase and xylanase, which raised the protein content in the insoluble fraction to 91%. Inorganic impurities, such as the metal manganese in the starting rice flour, were effectively removed. The recovered rice proteins, practically intact according to electrophoretic analysis, had relatively poor solubility and emulsification properties; however, these functional properties were improved substantially by adding xanthan gum as a functionality‐enhancing agent.
Lipase‐catalyzed hydrolysis of canola oil in supercritical carbon dioxide
Authors: Rezaei Karamatollah , Temelli Feral
Published: January 2007

The effect of pressure, temperature, and CO2 flow rale on the extent of conversion and the product composition in the enzyme‐catalyzed hydrolysis of canola oil in supercritical carbon dioxide (SCCO2) was investigated using lipase from Mucor miehei immobilized on macroporous anionic resin (Lipozyme IM). Reactions were carried out in a continuous flow reactor at 10, 24, and 38 MPa and 35 and 55°C. Supercritical fluid chromatography was used to analyze the reaction products. A conversion of 63–67% (triglyceride disappearance) was obtained at 24–38 MPa. Mono‐and diglyceride production was minimum at 10 MPa and 35°C. Monoglyceride production was favored at 24 MPa. The amount of product obtained was higher at 24–38 MPa due to enhanced solubility in SCCO2. Complete hydrolysis of oil should be possible by increasing the enzyme load and/or decreasing the quantity of the oil substrate. There was a drop in triglyceride conversion over a 24‐h reaction time at 38 MPa and 55°C, which may be an indication of loss of enzyme activity. Pressure, temperature, and CO2 flow rate are important parameters to be optimized in the enzyme‐catalyzed hydrolysis of canola oil in SCCO2 to maximize its conversion to high‐value products.
Oxidative stability of stripped and nonstripped borage and evening primrose oils and their emulsions in water
Authors: Khan Muhammad Ahmad , Shahidi Fereidoon
Published: January 2007

Oxidative stability of stripped and nonstripped borage and evening primrose oils and their emulsions in water was evaluated. The results indicated that column chromatographic techniques provide an effective means for stripping vegetable oils of their minor components. However, some minor components may be retained in the stripped oils. The minor components in borage and evening primrose oils significantly (P<0.05) influenced their oxidative stability in the dark. In contrast, the behavior of endogenous antioxidants in borage and evening primrose oil‐in‐water emulsions, according to the “polar paradox” theory, was difficult to evaluate. Correlations existed between peroxide value (PV) and conjugated dienes (CD) (P<0.05) as well as 2‐thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances (TBARS) and hexanal content (P<0.01) for most oils and emulsion systems. Therefore, CD and TBARS may generally be used to assess the oxidative stability of borage and evening primrose oils and their oil‐in‐water emulsions in addition to or in place of PV and headspace volatiles, respectively.
Defining the Role of Flavonoid Structure on Cottonseed Oil Stabilization: Study of A‐ and C‐Ring Substitution
Authors: Tsimogiannis Dimitrios , Oreopoulou Vassiliki
Published: January 2007

Structure—activity relationships of flavonoids against cottonseed oil oxidation are the objective of this work, which focuses on the contribution of C‐ring and 5,7‐di‐OH A‐ring. Flavonoids with a catecholic B‐ring, namely quercetin, fisetin, luteolin, taxifolin, (+)‐catechin and eriodictyol were added in increasing concentrations to cottonseed oil and the induced decrease in the rate constant of peroxide formation (k) and peroxide values (PV) were determined. The flavonoid depletion was monitored during the autoxidation with high‐performance liquid chromatography‐diode array detector (HPLC‐DAD) analysis. The fully substituted C‐ring was established as the most significant element for maximal antioxidant activity; quercetin even decreased k by 86% in comparison with the control and presented the highest decrease of PV per mmole of antioxidant. Flavonoids missing the 2,3‐double bond or the 3‐OH (taxifolin, luteolin) resulted in a smaller decrease of k, and the lack of both of the above structural elements (eriodictyol) resulted in the smallest decrease. Lack of the 4‐carbonyl in the C‐ring had the least negative effect on antioxidant activity since (+)‐catechin presented the strongest protection after quercetin and fisetin. The activity of the latter flavonoid proved that A‐ring hydroxyls, despite the unfavorable m‐configuration, participate in the stabilization of the lipid substrate, although their significance was secondary.
Self‐efficacy mediates the relation between pain‐related fear and outcome in chronic low back pain patients
Authors: Woby Steve R. , Urmston Martin , Watson Paul J.
Published: January 2007

This study aimed to determine whether self‐efficacy beliefs mediated the relation between pain‐related fear and pain, and between pain‐related fear and disability in CLBP patients who exhibited high pain‐related fear. In a cross‐sectional design, 102 chronic low back pain (CLBP) patients completed measures for pain, disability, self‐efficacy and pain‐related fear (fear of movement and catastrophizing). Multistep regression analyses were performed to determine whether self‐efficacy mediated the relation between pain‐related fear and outcome (pain and/or disability). Self‐efficacy was found to mediate the relation between pain‐related fear and pain intensity, and between pain‐related fear and disability. Therefore, this study suggests that when self‐efficacy is high, elevated pain‐related fear might not lead to greater pain and disability. However, in instances where self‐efficacy is low, elevated pain‐related fear is likely to lead to greater pain and disability. In view of these findings, we conclude that it is imperative to assess both pain‐related fear and self‐efficacy when treating CLBP patients with high pain‐related fear.
Functional role of lingual nerve in breastfeeding
Authors: Yokouchi Kumiko , Fukushima Nanae , Kakegawa Akira , Kawagishi Kyutaro , Fukuyama Tetsuhiro , Moriizumi Tetsuji
Published: January 2007

Functional role of lingual nerve in breastfeeding was investigated in rat pups during the suckling period. DiI, a postmortem neuronal tracer, was used to confirm the immature lingual nerve (LN) responsible for tongue sensation and resulted in successful fiber labeling anterogradely to the tongue, which showed different distribution patterns from fiber labeling derived from the hypoglossal nerve. Unilaterally LN‐injured pups did not show suckling disturbance with absence of any shortening (P11 pups: 559 ± 16 s; 105% of the control value) in nipple attachment time and the survival rate remained high (P11: 100%). Bilaterally LN‐injured pups showed suckling disturbance with marked shortening (P11 pups: 220 ± 54 s; 42% of the control value) in nipple attachment time and a low survival rate (P1: 33%; P11: 41%). Bilaterally infraorbital nerve‐injured or bilaterally bulbectomized pups did not show any nipple attachment at all and there were no survivors, confirming the crucial roles of upper lip sensation and olfaction in suckling. Based on these findings, we conclude that tongue sensation is very important, but not essential for suckling.
A non‐transformed oligodendrocyte precursor cell line, OL‐1, facilitates studies of insulin‐like growth factor‐I signaling during oligodendrocyte development
Authors: Lagarde William H. , Benjamin Robert , Heerens Ann T. , Ye Ping , Cohen Rick I. , Moats‐Staats Billie M. , D'Ercole A. Joseph
Published: January 2007

The process by which oligodendrocyte progenitors differentiate into mature oligodendrocytes is complex and incompletely understood in part because of the paucity of oligodendrocyte precursors cell lines that can be studied in culture. We have developed a non‐immortalized rat oligodendrocyte precursor line, called OL‐1, which behaves in a fashion consistent with developing oligodendrocytes in vivo. This OL‐1 line provides a model for the study of oligodendrocyte development and offers an alternative to the CG‐4 cell line. When OL‐1 cells are propagated in conditioned growth media, they have morphology consistent with immature oligodendrocytes and exhibit A2B5 antigen positive and myelin basic protein‐negative immunoreactivity. Withdrawal of conditioned growth media and culture in serum‐free medium results in OL‐1 cell maturation, manifested by a shift to myelin basic protein‐positive immunoreactivity, A2B5 antigen‐negative immunoreactivity, decreased NG2 mRNA expression, increased expression of proteolipid protein mRNA, and increased expression of CNP protein. In addition, the expression of proteolipid protein and its splicing variant DM‐20 exhibit a pattern that is similar to brain proteolipid protein expression during development. When OL‐1 cells are exposed to Insulin‐like growth factor‐I, there are significant increases in proteolipid protein mRNA expression (p < 0.05), the number of cell processes (p < 0.05), and cell number (p < 0.05). Treatment with the caspase inhibitors Z‐DEVD‐FMK and Z‐VAD‐FMK (inhibitors of caspases 3, 6, 7, 8, 10 and 1, 3, 4, respectively), Insulin‐like growth factor‐I, or both, results in a similar increase in cell number. Because Insulin‐like growth factor‐I does not substantially increase the BrdU labeling of OL‐1 cells, these data collectively indicate that Insulin‐like growth factor‐I increases OL‐1 cell number predominately by promoting survival, rather than stimulating proliferation. This non‐immortalized oligodendrocyte precursor cell line, therefore, exhibits behavior consistent with the in vivo development of oligodendrocytes and provides an excellent model for the study of developing oligodendrocytes.
The Role of Exercise in Treating Postpartum Depression: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Daley Amanda J. , Psychol C. , MacArthur Christine , Winter Heather
Published: January 2007

There is now evidence to support the antidepressant effects of exercise in general and in clinical populations. This article reviews the evidence regarding the potential role of exercise, particularly pram walking, as an adjunctive treatment for postpartum depression. Database searches revealed two small randomised controlled trials conducted in Australia which support exercise as a useful treatment for women with postpartum depression. In addition, uncontrolled studies and observational evidence suggest that postpartum women, some of whom were depressed, report benefit from participation in exercise programmes. There are plausible mechanisms by which exercise could have such an effect. Limited evidence supports a relationship between participation in exercise and reduction in postpartum depression. Given the reluctance by some women to use antidepressant medication postpartum and the limited availability of psychological therapies, exercise as a therapeutic possibility deserves further exploration. Further research using well‐designed randomised controlled trial methodologies are warranted.
Use of A Clean Delivery Kit and Factors Associated with Cord Infection and Puerperal Sepsis in Mwanza, Tanzania
Authors: Winani Samson , Wood Siri , Coffey Patricia , Chirwa Tobias , Mosha Frank , Changalucha John
Published: January 2007

Our objective was to determine the effectiveness of an intervention that incorporated education about the “six cleans” with the use of a clean delivery kit in preventing cord infection and puerperal sepsis. A stepped‐wedge, cross‐sectional study was conducted in 10 surveillance sites across two rural districts of Mwanza Region, Tanzania. A total of 3262 pregnant women between the ages of 17 and 45 years were enrolled in the study. Village health workers administered questionnaires to each mother at 5 days postpartum and inspected the infants'umbilical cord stumps for signs of infection. Newborns whose mothers used the delivery kit were 13.1 times less likely to develop cord infection than infants whose mothers did not use the kit. Furthermore, women who used the kit for delivery were 3.2 times less likely to develop puerperal sepsis than women who did not use the kit. Women who bathed before delivery were 2.6 times less likely to develop puerperal sepsis than women who did not bathe, and their infants were 3.9 times less likely to develop cord infection. Single‐use delivery kits, when combined with education about clean delivery, can have a positive impact on the health of women and their newborns by significantly decreasing the likelihood of developing puerperal sepsis or cord infection.
Pruritic Urticarial Papules and Plaques of Pregnancy
Authors: Brzoza Zenon , Kasperska‐Zajac Alicja , Oleś Ewa , Rogala Barbara
Published: January 2007

Pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (PUPPP) are among the most common pruritic dermatoses observed in pregnant women. PUPPP appears most frequently in the third trimester, in primigravidas, and in multiple gestation pregnancies. The eruption of changes occurs initially on the abdomen and extends over the thighs, legs, back, buttocks, arms, and breasts. Skin changes typical for PUPPP are erythematous, urticarial plaques, and papules. Rash regression is usually observed within 6 weeks postpartum. Immunologic mechanisms, hormonal abnormalities, and abdominal skin distension have been suggested as etiologic mechanisms. PUPPP is thought to be harmless for the mother and fetus and usually requires intervention only for symptom relief. In some cases, laboratory investigation, histologic examination, and immunologic study should be performed to exclude more serious disorders of pregnancy, such as herpes gestationis or intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy. This article reviews the epidemiology, clinical manifestation, etiology, differential diagnosis, and treatment of PUPPP.
A Comparison of Different Severities of Nausea and Vomiting During Pregnancy Relative to Stress, Social Support, and Maternal Adaptation
Authors: Kuo Shih‐Hsien , Wang Ruey‐Hsia , Tseng Hui‐Chen , Jian Shu‐Yuan , Chou Fan‐Hao
Published: January 2007

A cross‐sectional and comparative research design with convenience sampling was used to recruit pregnant women from prenatal clinics in southern Taiwan between 2002 and 2003 to examine the differences in perceived stress, social support, and maternal psychosocial adaptation among women with different severities (mild or less than mild, moderate, and severe) of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. A total of 150 pregnant women participated in this study. One‐way analysis of variance indicated that perceived stress was significantly different among the 3 groups. The least significant difference post‐hoc test revealed that pregnant women with mild nausea and vomiting had significantly lower stress than did pregnant women with severe nausea and vomiting. The severity of nausea and vomiting was significantly associated with the Prenatal Self Evaluation Questionnaire subscales for “acceptance of pregnancy” and “fear of helplessness and loss of control in labor.” Social support and maternal psychosocial adaptation were not significantly different among these three groups. The degree of perceived stress and maternal psychosocial adaptation may be related to the severity of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy.
Midwives and the Fetal Nuchal Cord: A Survey of Practices and Perceptions
Authors: Jackson Hilary , Melvin Cathie , Downe Soo
Published: January 2007

A systematic search of studies of intrapartum management of the nuchal umbilical cord at term found no published controlled studies in this area. A postal survey containing both structured and open questions and a request for local protocols and guidelines was sent to all 637 midwives in 7 maternity units in England. There were 401 (63%) responses. There appeared to be no unit guidelines for this area of practice. Midwife approaches to nuchal cord during birth varied, and included clamping and cutting of loose nuchal cords and a hands‐off approach to tight nuchal cords. Reasons for specific actions included doing what had been taught during midwifery training and learning from previous personal experiences. Theories of diffusion of innovation and of planned behaviour may provide a conceptual basis for understanding the adoption of specific practices. Future qualitative and controlled studies are needed to explore the nature and consequences of varying approaches to intrapartum nuchal cord management.
Update on Medication Abortion
Authors: Beal Margaret W.
Published: January 2007

This article provides an overview of medication abortion in the United States 6 years after the approval of mifepristone (RU486; Mifeprex; Danco Laboratories, LLC, New York, NY) by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The adoption of mifepristone is considered in the context of epidemiologic data on abortion, abortion access, and the safety of abortion. The risks of medication and aspiration abortion are discussed in the context of abortion‐related mortality, recent experience with obstetric and gynecologic infection with Clostridium sordellii, and the limits of scientific knowledge on the incidence of this infection in women. Innovative protocols studied since FDA approval of mifepristone are presented, and implications for clinical practice are discussed.
Professional Middle Class Youth in Post-Reform Vietnam: Identity, Continuity and Change
Authors: KING VICTOR T. , NGUYEN PHUONG AN , MINH NGUYEN HUU
Published: January 2007

There is very little information or analysis on middle class youth in Vietnam. This paper begins to fill this gap in our knowledge by utilising data on urban, educated professional youth from the Survey Assessment of Vietnamese Youth (2003–04) and an ethnographic investigation in Hanoi between 1999 and 2002. It considers some of the conceptual and analytical issues in addressing the character and definition of the middle class in Southeast Asia more generally, and provides contextual information on the emergence of the middle class in Vietnam and the transformation of the class structure there. The information available suggests that the expanding young middle class in Vietnam exhibits many of the characteristics of the middle class everywhere—possession of cultural capital, a firm interest in and commitment to education, an orientation to consumption and to accessing news and information, and aspirations to improve and develop in personal and career terms. However, the continuing close relationship between members of the middle class and the Vietnamese state suggests that there is little evidence as yet of the middle class developing a political identity or of the emergence of civil society. The data demonstrate continuity in state-generated employment and education between the current generation and its predecessor, which arises from the continuing influence of the state on Vietnamese society in its role as provider of employment, career paths, education and scholarships, as well as from the continuing influence of the senior generation on their children.
From Negotiation to Coercion: Textile Manufacturing in India in the Eighteenth Century
Authors: PRAKASH OM
Published: January 2007

The paper first provides a broad overview of the structure of textile manufacturing and procurement in India in the seventeenth and the first half of the eighteenth century. It then takes up for a detailed analysis the changes in this structure in the second half of the eighteenth century as a result of the assumption of political authority by the English East India Company in the subcontinent with special reference to the case of Bengal where such authority was exercised most intensively. A market-based system was replaced by one embedded in coercion of the intermediary merchants and the manufacturing artisans. In the concluding section, the paper makes a plea for a distinction being made between the distributive justice dimension and the implications for output dimension of the changed scenario and argues that the picture of a ruined textile industry in Bengal might be in need of substantive revision.
The identification of a genetically unique piroplasma in North American river otters (Lontra canadensis)
Authors: BIRKENHEUER A. J. , HARMS C. A. , NEEL J. , MARR H. S. , TUCKER M. D. , ACTON A. E. , TUTTLE A. D. , STOSKOPF M. K.
Published: January 2007

During a routine health check of a wild-caught North American river otter (Lontra canadensis) small piroplasms were noted within erythrocytes. Analyses of the 18S ribosomal ribonucleic acid (rRNA) gene sequences determined that this was a genetically unique organism most closely related to Babesia microti-like parasites found in other small carnivores. Subsequently 39 wild-trapped North American river otters from North Carolina were tested for the presence of piroplasma deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) via polymerase chain reaction and piroplasma DNA was detected in 82% (32/39) of these samples. Sequencing of partial 18S rRNA genes from selected cases determined that they were identical to the sentinel case. This report documents the existence of a genetically unique piroplasma in North American river otters and indicates that the prevalence of piroplasma in North Carolina otters is quite high. The pathogenic potential of this organism for otters or other species remains unknown.
Spreadsheet functional programming
Authors: WAKELING DAVID
Published: January 2007

The functional programming community has shown some interest in spreadsheets, but surprisingly no one seems to have considered making a standard spreadsheet, such as Excel, work with a standard functional programming language, such as Haskell. In this paper, we show one way that this can be done. Our hope is that by doing so, we might get spreadsheet programmers to give functional programming a try.
Characterization of Lipase in Reversed Micelles Formulated with Cibacron Blue F‐3GA Modified Span 85
Authors: Zhang Dong‐Hao , Guo Zheng , Dong Xiao‐Yan , Sun Yan
Published: January 2007

Sorbitan trioleate (Span 85) modified by Cibacron Blue F‐3GA (CB) was prepared and used as an affinity surfactant to formulate a reversed micellar system for Candida rugosa lipase (CRL) solubilization. The system was characterized and evaluated by employing CRL‐catalyzed hydrolysis of olive oil as a model reaction. The micellar hydrodynamic radius results reflected, to some extent, the redistribution of surfactant and water after enzyme addition, and the correlation between surfactant formulation, water content ( W0), micellar size, and enzyme activity. An adequate modification density of CB was found to be important for the reversed micelles to retain enough hydration capacity and achieve high enzyme activity. Compared with the results in AOT‐based reversed micelles, CRL in this micellar system exhibited a different activity behavior versus W0. The optimal pH and temperature of the encapsulated lipase remained unchanged, but the apparent activity was significantly higher than that of the native enzyme in bulk solution. Kinetic studies indicated that the encapsulated lipase in the reversed micelles of CB‐formulated Span 85 followed the Michaelis‐Menten equation. The Michaelis constant was found to decrease with increasing surfactant concentration, suggesting an increase of the enzyme affinity for the substrate. Stability of the lipase in the reversed micelles was negatively correlated to W0.
Monitoring Deliberate Self-Harm Presentations to General Hospitals
Authors: Hawton Keith , Bale Liz , Casey Deborah , Shepherd Anna , Simkin Sue , Harriss Louise
Published: January 2007

Monitoring of deliberate self-harm (DSH) presentations to hospitals (and in other settings) is receiving increased attention in many countries. This is due to greater recognition of the size of the problem and awareness of its relevance to suicide prevention policy initiatives, because of the strong association between DSH and suicide. A system for monitoring all DSH presentations has been in place in the general hospital in Oxford for 30 years. Based on our experience, in this paper we describe procedures for monitoring, including case definition and identification, linkage of persons and episodes in order to investigate repetition of DSH and other outcomes (including deaths), and data protection and ethical issues. We also provide details of how to carry out monitoring, including different models of data collection, and what data to collect. Finally we consider the potential uses of the data for both clinical and research purposes, including evaluation of national suicide prevention initiatives.
Reaching Suicidal People with Media Campaigns
Authors: Daigle Marc , Beausoleil Louise , Brisoux Jacques , Raymond Sylvaine , Charbonneau Lucie , Desaulniers Julie
Published: January 2007

Abstract. Five variables were investigated in the evaluation of Suicide Prevention Weeks (SPW) held in 1999, 2000, and 2001 in Québec, Canada: exposure to the campaign, previous suicide ideation, knowledge, attitudes, and intentions. After the year 2000 campaign, a telephone survey conducted on a representative sample of 1020 men revealed that only those actually exposed to the SPW had gained more knowledge of suicide facts and resources. However, the SPW did not influence attitudes or intentions to seek help. Results are not surprising, considering the low intensity of the campaign, especially in the media. Campaigns aimed at changing suicidal behaviors must be intensive.
A Review of the Literature on Rural Suicide
Authors: Hirsch Jameson K.
Published: January 2007

Abstract. Background. Suicide is a major cause of mortality worldwide. Differences in rates of suicide exist between urban and rural areas; however, little rigorous research has examined the phenomena of rural suicide. Objective. This review examines the current body of literature on rural suicide and investigates differences between rural and urban suicide, including socioeconomic, psychological, and cultural variables. Prevention and intervention strategies specific to rural communities are discussed. Description of studies. All empirical and epidemiological studies of rural suicide were included in the review regardless of study design or methodology. Results. Although findings are mixed, research and epidemiological data indicate that suicide is a public health concern in rural areas, with suicide rates often greater than in urban areas. Discussion. Rural locale may create geographic, psychological, and sociocultural barriers to treatment of suicide. A better understanding of the role of rurality in the development and maintenance of suicidal thoughts and behaviors is needed and may inform prevention and intervention efforts.
Should Suicide Prevention Programs Target Individuals or Society as a Whole?
Authors: Lester David , Yang Bijou
Published: January 2007

Abstract. The issue of whether it is more useful to focus on societal interventions to prevent suicide or individual-centered approaches is discussed. The advantages and drawbacks of each approach are explored.
Evolution of surface gravity waves over a submarine canyon
Authors: Magne R. , Belibassakis K. A. , Herbers T. H. C. , Ardhuin Fabrice , O'Reilly W. C. , Rey V.
Published: January 2007

The effects of a submarine canyon on the propagation of ocean surface waves are examined with a three‐dimensional coupled‐mode model for wave propagation over steep topography. Whereas the classical geometrical optics approximation predicts an abrupt transition from complete transmission at small incidence angles to no transmission at large angles, the full model predicts a more gradual transition with partial reflection/transmission that is sensitive to the canyon geometry and controlled by evanescent modes for small incidence angles and relatively short waves. Model results for large incidence angles are compared with data from directional wave buoys deployed around the rim and over Scripps Canyon, near San Diego, California, during the Nearshore Canyon Experiment (NCEX). Wave heights are observed to decay across the canyon by about a factor 5 over a distance shorter than a wavelength. However, a spectral refraction model predicts an even larger reduction by about a factor 10, because low‐frequency components cannot cross the canyon in the geometrical optics approximation. The coupled‐mode model yields accurate results over and behind the canyon. These results show that although most of the wave energy is refractively trapped on the offshore rim of the canyon, a small fraction of the wave energy ‘tunnels’ across the canyon. Simplifications of the model that reduce it to the standard and modified mild slope equations also yield good results, confirming that evanescent modes and high‐order bottom slope effects are of minor importance for the energy transformation of waves propagating across depth contours at large oblique angles.
A global map of Mars' crustal magnetic field based on electron reflectometry
Authors: Mitchell D. L. , Lillis R. J. , Lin R. P. , Connerney J. E. P. , Acuña M. H.
Published: January 2007

We present a global map of the amplitude of Mars' crustal magnetic field at 170‐km altitude based on electron reflectometry, using data from the Magnetometer/Electron Reflectometer (MAG/ER) experiment on board Mars Global Surveyor. This new map contains features that are about seven times weaker than those in previously published maps obtained with the MAG alone from the 400‐km‐altitude mapping orbit. The increased sensitivity and nearly complete sampling reveal numerous weak magnetic sources in the northern lowlands. A group of these sources forms a nearly complete ring surrounding the Utopia basin, coinciding with a ridge of thickened crust. A larger 5800‐km‐diameter ring is defined by a ∼120° arc of magnetic sources that extend to the north pole, supporting the hypothesis that part of the dichotomy boundary was established or modified by the Utopia impact. We also map the magnetic signatures of the Hellas, Argyre, and Isidis impact basins with increased dynamic range, confirming the large contrast in magnetic field strength between the basin interior and surroundings. Magnetic sources surround most of the Tharsis rise, except in the north, suggesting that the construction of Tharsis thermally demagnetized a large region of the northern lowlands. Thermal demagnetization is also suggested in the Elysium region, which intersects the inner Utopia magnetic ring, and south of the Hellas basin in the vicinity of Peneus Patera and Amphitrites Patera.