bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Impact of 20∶4n−6 supplementation on the fatty acid composition and hemocyte parameters of the pacific oyster crassostrea gigas
Authors: Delaporte Maryse , Soudant Philippe , Moal Jeanne , Giudicelli Emilie , Lambert Christophe , Séguineau Catherine , Samain Jean‐François 
Published: February 2007

AbstractArachidonic acid (20∶4n−6, ArA) and its eicosanoid metabolites have been demonstrated to be implicated in immune functions of vertebrates, fish, and insects. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess the impact of ArA supplementation on the FA composition and hemocyte parameters of oysters Crassostrea gigas. Oyster dietary conditioning consisted of direct addition of ArA solutions at a dose of 0, 0.25, or 0.41 μg ArA per mL of seawater into tanks in the presence or absence of T‐Iso algae. Results showed significant incorporation of ArA into gill polar lipids when administered with algae (up to 19.7%) or without algae (up to 12.1%). ArA supplementation led to an increase in hemocyte numbers, phagocytosis, and production of reactive oxygen species by hemocytes from ArA‐supplemented oysters. Moreover, the inhibitory effect of Vibrio aestuarianus extracellular products on the adhesive proprieties of hemocytes was lessened in oysters fed ArA‐supplemented T‐Iso. All changes in oyster hemocyte parameters reported in the present study suggest that ArA and/or eicosanoid metabolites affect oyster hemocyte functions.
Accelerated solvent extraction for quantitative measurement of fatty acids in plasma and erythrocytes
Authors: Kuriki Kiyonori , Tajima Kazuo , Tokudome Shinkan 
Published: February 2007

AbstractConsumption of fish rich in n‐3 highly unsaturated FAs (i.e., EPA and DHA) has been suggested to decrease the risk of lifestyle‐related diseases such as coronary heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and dementia. Blood eevels of those FA are known appropriate biomarkers of both the corresponding dietary FA intakes and fish consumption. In place of traditional handwork methods for extracting FA, we performed an accelerated solvent extraction (ASE) for at least 13 selected FA in plasma and erythrocytes to measure them by GLC. The FA levels (concentrations and compositions) in 35–50 μL of plasma or erythrocytes were extracted by ASE and measured by GLC. Intra‐and interassay coefficients of variation were≤6.0% for both blood materials, except with a minor group of FA (≤1.0% of total FA). When ASE was compared with two traditional handwork methods, FA levels in plasma from 18 healthy subjects were all coincident with very high Pearson's correlation coefficients for the three sets of the sama 18 samples (r≤0.85 to 0.95, P<0.0001), except for 18∶0 (r=0.59, P<0.01). Using ASE and GLC, we have developed a new method for determination the levels of FA in plasma and erythrocytes as biomarkers for dietary intake of fish, fat, and FA. This new method makes it feasible to measure small volumes of samples, automatically, quantitatively, routinely, easily, rapidly and cheaply, with acceptable precision and accuracy.
CHAPTER 9 Delivering HPV vaccine in the industrial and developing world: the role of the ob‐gyn community
Authors: Kane Mark A. 
Published: February 2007

AbstractThe development and demonstration of the safety and effectiveness of new HPV vaccines is a major breakthrough in medical science that could prevent most cases of cervical cancer, the first or second cause of cancer death in women in most developing countries. This chapter discusses the delivery of HPV vaccine in the industrial and developing world, from the point of view of what obstetricians and gynecologists need to know to use and advocate for the use of this powerful new tool.
CHAPTER 11 How to manage and communicate with patients about HPV?
Authors: Garland Suzanne M. , Quinn Michael A. 
Published: February 2007

AbstractThe whole concept of abnormal Pap smears and cervical cancer being due to an STI poses enormous challenges to the healthcare provider. The psychological and psychosocial sequelae of misinformation are potentially damaging both to the woman and her partner. There is a clear responsibility for the information around this to be simple, relevant, reassuring and comprehensible. Written information is invaluable.
A COMPARISON OF ALGEBRAS OF FUNCTIONS OF BOUNDED VARIATION
Authors: Ashton Brenden , Doust Ian 
Published: January 2007

AbstractMotivated by problems in the spectral theory of linear operators, we previously introduced a new concept of variation for functions defined on a non-empty compact subset of the plane. In this paper, we examine the algebras of functions of bounded variation one obtains from these new definitions for the case where the underlying compact set is either a rectangle or the unit circle, and compare these algebras with those previously used by Berkson and Gillespie in their theories of AC-operators and trigonometrically well-bounded operators.
Optimization of Protein Fusion Partner Length for Maximizing in Vitro Translation of Peptides
Authors: Loose Christopher R. , Langer Robert S. , Stephanopoulos Gregory N. 
Published: February 2007

AbstractUsing protein fusion partners for in vitro translation may increase solubility, assist in purification, or allow detection of small proteins and peptides. Here we show that the molar yield of peptide in a batch reaction may be maximized by optimizing the length of the translated product, which is composed of the fusion partner plus the peptide. Using truncated versions of GFP as a series of fusion partners, the molar yield increased approximately 3‐fold as the length of the translated product was reduced from 250 to 100 amino acids. When the translated product was shortened below roughly 100 amino acids, molar yield fell as a result of proteolysis. This trend was verified using two fusion partners with different amino acid sequences. Furthermore, protease inhibitors were used to confirm that proteases were responsible for limiting accumulation of peptides below the optimal length.
Administration of brain natriuretic peptide improves cardiac function following operations using extracorporeal circulation in an animal model
Authors: Bail Dorothee H. L. , Steger Volker , Heinzelmann Uli , Schiller Sandra , Geim Anita I. , Brüllmann Benjamin , Ziemer Gerhard 
Published: February 2007

The critical phase during cardiosurgical procedures is weaning the diseased heart from the ECC (extracorporeal circulation). Post-ischaemic heart failure sometimes requires the administration of inotropic and/or vasconstrictive agents. The natriuretic peptides influence pre- and after-load through their natriuretic, diuretic and vasodilating actions. To date, there are only a few reports describing the therapeutic effect of BNP (brain natriuretic peptide) administration during cardiosurgical procedures. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of BNP administration following ECC in an animal model. Surgery was performed on 20 pigs using ECC. A 30-min ischaemic episode was simulated. Following de-clamping, BNP was administered to the BNP group (n=10) by an i.v. (intravenous) bolus at 0.3 μg·kg−1 of body weight·min−1, followed by an infusion at a rate of 0.015 μg·kg−1 of body weight·min−1 for 60 min. The animals in the control group (n=10) received a saline solution instead of BNP. Haemodynamic and clinical chemistry parameters as well as the amount of catecholamines that were required were measured. All of the animals in the BNP group had a significantly better cardiac output and cardiac index at the end of the experiment. Seven out of 10 animals from the control group required catecholamines, whereas only one animal from the BNP group did. Creatine kinase levels were significantly lower in the BNP group. Systemic vascular resistance was markedly lower in the BNP group. In conclusion, administration of BNP is highly effective in treating post-ischaemic heart failure following ECC. Haemodynamics are greatly improved, and there is almost no need for pharmacological support.
Plasma concentration of Fas/Fas ligand and left ventricular function in response to metoprolol in conjunction with standard treatment
Authors: Hou Yuan-ping , Wu Jin-ling , Fan Qian , Liu Miao-bing , Yin Bao-ling , Zhang Lin 
Published: February 2007

Recent studies suggest that cardiac myocyte apoptosis contributes to the progress of CHF (congestive heart failure). In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that metoprolol in conjunction with the standard treatment regime for CHF [an ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) inhibitor, diuretics and digoxin] may significantly reduce the plasma concentrations of the apoptotic mediators sFas (soluble Fas) and sFasL (soluble Fas ligand) in patients with CHF. An ELISA was used to determine the plasma concentrations of sFas and sFasL in 106 patients with stable CHF at recruitment. Echocardiography was performed at baseline and after 1 year of treatment with metoprolol in conjunction with the standard treatment regime for CHF (i.e. an ACE inhibitor, diuretics and digoxin). The dose of metoprolol was doubled on a biweekly basis up to 50 mg twice a day or maintained at the maximum tolerated dose. Data after 1 year were available for 92 patients and were analysed. The plasma concentrations of sFas and sFasL in patients with CHF decreased significantly (P&lt;0.01) after 1 year of treatment with metoprolol in conjunction with the standard treatment regime compared with at baseline (5.4±0.2 compared with 3.2±0.1 ng/ml respectively for sFas, and 52.1±2.3 compared with 26.7±1.0 pg/ml respectively for sFasL). Compared with baseline, after 1 year of treatment with metoprolol in conjunction with the standard treatment regime there were significant improvements in LV (left ventricular) ejection fraction (from 32.6±0.9 to 51.5±0.8%; P&lt;0.01), LV end-diastolic dimension (from 69.8±0.6 to 57.7±0.3 mm; P&lt;0.01), LV end-systolic dimension (from 53.9±0.6 to 40.5±0.5 mm; P&lt;0.01), LV end-diastolic volume (from 254.7±5.0 to 164.1±2.2 ml; P&lt;0.01) and LV end-systolic volume (from 142.0±4.2 to 72.2±2.0 ml; P&lt;0.01). In addition, the distance walked in a 6-min walk test increased markedly (P&lt;0.01) from 260.3±5.2 m at baseline to 440.9±5.7 m after 1 year of treatment. In conclusion, we have demonstrated that metoprolol in conjunction with an ACE inhibitor, diuretics and digoxin in patients with CHF can lead to a reverse in LV remodelling potentially through its anti-apoptotic effects.
Actions and uses of 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP).
Authors: Watkins C. B. 
Published: January 2007

Abstract
A new strategy for controlling ethylene production and thus ethylene-mediated responses during ripening and senescence of fruit, and senescence of ornamental products and vegetative tissues, has emerged with the discovery and commercialization of the inhibitor of ethylene perception, 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP). 1-MCP competes with ethylene for binding sites, preventing ethylene perception and subsequent effects of ethylene on metabolism. 1-MCP is available commercially, and registration for use on various horticultural products has occurred worldwide. 1-MCP has been investigated widely as a tool to maintain quality of horticultural products, as well as to investigate the role of ethylene in the physiological and biochemical responses of these products during ripening and senescence. The effects of 1-MCP on ethylene-mediated responses depend on its concentration and the exposure period, product type and post-treatment manipulations such as storage regime and storage period. Research has led to the identification of strengths and limitations in applying 1-MCP-based technology at the commercial level.
Keratinase technology: from feather degradation and feed additive,to prion destruction.
Authors: Shih J. C. H. , Wang J. J. 
Published: January 2007

Abstract

A bio-process called thermophilic anaerobic digestion that converts poultry waste into biogas energy was developed in our laboratory. During operation, feathers in the waste were completely degraded. This observation prompted a series of studies that have led to new technology and commercial developments. A feather-degrading bacterium was discovered and isolated. An enzyme called keratinase capable of hydrolysing the feather protein keratin was purified. The gene encoding this enzyme was isolated and sequenced. Genetic modification enabled the over expression of the gene in the parent strain as well as in other
Bacillus
strains. Scale-up fermentation, first in 150 l and then in 50 kl fermentors, made the mass production of the enzyme possible. Subsequently, in application research, keratinase was shown to partially hydrolyse feathers and convert them into a digestible feed protein. When supplemented as a feed additive on standard diet, the enzyme promoted chicken growth by improving dietary protein digestibility. Ifcommercially developed, keratinase can lower feed cost, increase poultry meat yield, and upgrade the utilization of less digestible protein feedstuffs. From an environmental point of view, keratinase has the potential to reduce waste nitrogen excretion by farm animals. More recently, keratinase was found to be able to degrade prion protein that is believed to cause transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSE) including mad cow disease, sheep scrapie, deer chronic wasting disease and human CreutzfeldtJakob disease. This discovery indicated the potential use of keratinase in a new enzymatic process to destroy prion protein and possibly prevent TSE, in a cost-effective and environmentally friendly manner. To test and to develop the enzymatic process, a prion-like surrogate protein (PSP) has been developed as a safe bio-marker. The combination of keratinase and PSP can provide a useful toolbox for TSE prevention. Based on the keratinase platform technology and its applications, BioResource International (BRI), a biotechnology company, was founded to serve the poultry and animal industries.
A high-end ICT-based information system architecture for effective analysis and usage of agricultural data in decision-making.
Authors: Mangalampalli A. , Shinde C. V. , Chakravarth R. 
Published: January 2007

Abstract
Various agriculture-based information communication technologies (ICTs) are used throughout the world with various degrees of sophistication. In this paper, we have analysed these ICTs and then suggested a holistic and comprehensive prototypic agricultural ICT model. Until now, agricultural information systems have been implemented using various technologies such as radio, internet radio, internet, wide area networks (WANs) and mobile phones in various developed and developing countries. We have examined examples of such ICTs implemented in developing countries including India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, African and Latin American countries. Some developed countries, such as Australia, have nationwide ICTs spanning a spectrum of fields, including agriculture. After examining these ICTs, we have developed an agricultural information system which uses many software and hardware technologies and spans the whole agricultural system, from the scientists and policy-makers to the common farmers and from the national level to the village level. This information system makes use of the latest technologies, including DSS, intelligent systems, data-mining, data warehousing, and high-performance computer (HPC) grids. This paper details seminal research done in the development of an architectural model for implementing a high-end agricultural information system. This architectural model can be used to develop a more detailed framework.
Forages as protein sources for pigs in the tropics.
Authors: Preston T. R. 
Published: January 2007

Abstract

The decreasing availability and increasing prices of petroleum-based fuels is already having an impact on availability of feed resources. Research to develop alternative sources of live stock feed thus has a high priority. It is also important that the alternative feed resources can be grown on the farm as this will: (i) directly benefit the poorer farmers, who do not have cash resources topurchase supplements from outside the farm; and (ii) be an active response to the need to localize the farming system as a defence against the decreasing availability and increasing prices of petroleum-based fuels which will drive up the costs of transport. This review has shown that the leaves from shrubs such as cassava and mulberry, from vegetables such as sweet potato (SP) and cocoyam, together with water plants such as duckweed (
Lemna
spp.) and water spinach (
Ipomoea aquatica
), can be used successfully in diets for pigs to replace at least half the protein usually supplied as soyabean and fish meals (FMs). It is strongly recommended that future research in this area should be with basal diets that are low in protein and in cell wall constituents, as this will facilitate: (i) increasing the percentage of forage protein in the diet; and (ii) decreasing the overall protein level in the diet in accordance with the concept of the 'ideal protein.
Effects of no-tillage on soil structure.
Authors: Weisskopf P. , Anken T. 
Published: January 2007

Abstract
When used over several years, no-tillage (NT) increases spatial differentiation of soils vertically and horizontally by altering the structure and composition of the top layer. This results from dispensing with mechanical loosening and mechanical mixing in of organic matter. Associated with this are direct changes in soil structural properties such as macropore volume and pore continuity, as well as alterations in the quantity and quality of soil organic matter (SOM). An established NT-system increasingly affects the structure of deeper soil layers by promoting the continuity of biopores such as earthworm and root channels. This may lead to flow systems with high specific water conductivity and enhanced preferential flow, thereby influencing transport processes through the soil profile. In NT-soils, areas with high transport potential occur often simultaneously to zones with unfavourable structural properties and low air-filled porosity, which may offer, under certain site conditions, difficulties for the exchange of gases. Compared to mechanical tillage, NT normally increases the stability of aggregates and of the bulk soil, thereby improving trafficability and resistance to erosion, but also increasing penetration resistance for root development. Significant interactions exist between aggregate formation and SOM turnover of soils, which is of interest regarding C sequestration. By using NT, the importance of natural regeneration processes in maintaining a good soil structure increases. Therefore, organising the changeover from mechanical tillage to NT as well as the control of the compaction risk in an established NT-system needs special attention in order to ensure the sustainability of a NT-system.
Evaluation of an Alcohol-Based Surgical Hand Disinfectant Containing a Synergistic Combination of Farnesol and Benzethonium Chloride for Immediate and Persistent Activity Against Resident Hand Flora of Volunteers and With a Novel In Vitro Pig Skin Model
Authors: Shintre Milind S. , Gaonkar Trupti A. , Modak Shanta M. 
Published: February 2007

Objective.To evaluate the immediate, persistent and sustained in vivo activity of an alcohol-based surgical hand disinfectant, consisting of a zinc gel and a preservative system containing a synergistic combination of farnesol and benzethonium chloride (ZBF disinfectant), and to develop a pig skin model for in vitro evaluation of the immediate and persistent efficacy of alcohol-based surgical hand disinfectants against resident hand flora.Design.The in vivo immediate, persistent, and sustained activity of ZBF disinfectant was evaluated using human volunteers and the “glove-juice” method described in the US Food and Drug Administration's Tentative Final Monograph (FDA-TFM) for Healthcare Antiseptic Products. A novel in vitro pig skin model was developed to compare the immediate and persistent activity of alcohol-based surgical hand disinfectants against resident flora usingStaphylococcus epidermidisas the test organism. Four alcohol-based surgical hand disinfectants were evaluated using this model.Results.The results for the ZBF disinfectant exceed the FDA-TFM criteria for immediate, persistent, and sustained activity required for surgical hand disinfectants. The reduction factors for the 4 hand disinfectants obtained using the pig skin model show good agreement with the log10reductions in concentrations of hand flora obtained using human volunteers to test for immediate and persistent activity.Conclusion.The ZBF disinfectant we evaluated met the FDA-TFM criteria for surgical hand disinfectants. The immediate and persistent efficacy of the surgical hand disinfectants evaluated with the novel pig skin model described in this study shows good agreement with the results obtained in vivo.
Hindu Temples in the New World System, 1640–1800
Authors: Waghorne Joanne Punzo 
Published: February 2007

Abstract
The attention given to the 19th century in contemporary postcolonial studies skews the discussion of modernization and religion toward ideologies not materialities. Refocusing on the late 16th century during the rise of the new world system shows Hindu temples emerging as key institutions in the resettlement and reorientation of Indian Hindus in the new global economy. The key players were classic bourgeoisie, a multi-caste group of “merchants” in the East India Company. These merchants resembled their British counterparts in their rising status within their respective societies at home and their shared society in “Blacktown”. Through the use of archival maps, a reconfiguration of the Hindus temples becomes visible within this new urban space. The pattern of deities and the basic styles of their new homes — eclectic and duplicated — prefigure contemporary temples built within Chennai but also abroad in this new era of geo-culture and geo-economics (Wallerstein).
The Book of Job in Medieval Jewish Philosophy
Authors: Eisen Robert 
Published: February 2007

Abstract
This book analyzes the history of the interpretation of the book of Job by medieval Jewish exegetes. The scholarship on medieval Jewish thought has focused largely on the systematic philosophical aspects of this literature. The author, however, is concerned with exegesis qua exegesis. He offers a close examination of commentaries on Job written by six major thinkers: Saadiah Gaon (882-942, Egypt and Babylon), Moses Maimonides (1138-1204, Spain and Egypt), Samuel ibn Tibbon (1160-1230, Provence), Zerahiah Hen (13th Century, Barcelona and Rome), Levi Gersonides (1288-1344, Provence), and Simeon ben Zeham Duran (1361-1444, Majorca and Algiers). Saadiah and Maimonides wrote in Arabic, the other four in Hebrew. The author looks at the relationship between the commentaries and their antecedent sources as well as their relationship to the broader context of medieval Jewish thought. He also provides an overview of the questions the commentators confronted about the historicity, national origin, and “Jewishness” of the text. He argues that the commentaries on Job are linked in a coherent and evolving tradition of interpretation and he identifies various views of providence as the central concern of them all.