bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Age–period–cohort models for the Lexis diagram
Authors: Carstensen B. 
Published: December 2006

AbstractAnalysis of rates from disease registers are often reported inadequately because of too coarse tabulation of data and because of confusion about the mechanics of the age–period–cohort model used for analysis. Rates should be considered as observations in a Lexis diagram, and tabulation a necessary reduction of data, which should be as small as possible, and age, period and cohort should be treated as continuous variables. Reporting should include the absolute level of the rates as part of the age‐effects.This paper gives a guide to analysis of rates from a Lexis diagram by the age–period–cohort model. Three aspects are considered separately: (1) tabulation of cases and person‐years; (2) modelling of age, period and cohort effects; and (3) parametrization and reporting of the estimated effects. It is argued that most of the confusion in the literature comes from failure to make a clear distinction between these three aspects. A set of recommendations for the practitioner is given and a package for R that implements the recommendations is introduced. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The ORF YNL274c (GOR1) codes for glyoxylate reductase in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Rintala Eija , Pitkänen Juha‐Pekka , Vehkomäki Maija‐Leena , Penttilä Merja , Ruohonen Laura 
Published: December 2006

AbstractThe enzyme glyoxylate reductase reversibly reduces glyoxylate to glycolate, or alternatively hydroxypyruvate to D‐glycerate, using either NADPH or NADH as a co‐factor. The enzyme has multiple metabolic roles in different organisms. In this paper we show that GOR1 (ORF YNL274c) encodes a glyoxylate reductase and not a hydroxyisocaproate dehydrogenase in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, even though it also has minor activity on α‐ketoisocaproate. In addition, we show that deletion of the glyoxylate reductase‐encoding gene leads to higher biomass concentration after diauxic shift. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cloning of an epoxide hydrolase‐encoding gene from Rhodotorula mucilaginosa and functional expression in Yarrowia lipolytica
Authors: Labuschagne Michel , Albertyn Jacobus 
Published: December 2006

AbstractEpoxide hydrolases (EHs), especially those of fungal origin, have the ability to catalyse the enantioselective hydrolysis of epoxides to their corresponding diols. Recombinant DNA technology has been used extensively to overproduce these catalysts for the efficient hydrolytic kinetic resolution of epoxides, which serve as high‐value intermediates in the fine chemicals and pharmaceutical industries. Degenerate primers, based on data from available EH‐encoding gene sequences, in conjunction with inverse PCR, were used to amplify the genomic EH‐encoding gene from Rhodotorula mucilaginosa. The 2347 bp genomic sequence revealed a 1979 bp ORF containing nine introns. The cDNA sequence revealed an 1185 bp EH‐encoding gene that translates into a 394 amino acid protein exhibiting low sequence homology towards the known EH proteins. The EH gene from R. mucilaginosa was functionally expressed in Yarrowia lipolytica using a constitutive integrative expression cassette. Whole‐cell biotransformation of (2,3‐epoxypropyl)benzene, using the recombinant EH, revealed activity and selectivity far superior to any other activity and selectivity reported in literature using wild‐type organisms. The GenBank Accession No. for the R. mucilaginosa EH gene is AY627310. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of Pyrrolidine Dithiocarbamate on Healing of Colonic Anastomoses in the Cecal Ligation and Puncture Model of Intraperitoneal Sepsis in Rats
Authors: Teke Zafer , Aytekin Faruk Onder , Aydin Cagatay , Kabay Burhan , Yenisey Cigdem , Sacar Suzan , Simsek Nilufer Genc , Tekin Koray 
Published: December 2006

AbstractIntroductionPyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC) is a low‐molecular thiol antioxidant and potent inhibitor of nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) activation. In recent animal studies, the delaying effect of intraperitoneal sepsis on healing of colonic anastomoses has been demonstrated. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of PDTC on healing of colonic anastomoses in the presence of intraperitoneal sepsis induced by a rodent model of cecal ligation and puncture (CLP).MethodsAnastomosis of the left colon was performed on the day following CLP in 30 rats that were divided into three groups: sham‐operated control (laparotomy and cecal mobilization, group I, n =10), cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) (group II, n = 10), PDTC‐treated group (100 mg/kg IV before construction of the colonic anastomosis) (group III, n = 10). On postoperative day 6, all animals were sacrificed, and anastomotic bursting pressures were measured in vivo. Tissue samples were obtained for further investigation of colonic anastomotic hydroxyproline (HP) contents, perianastomotic myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, and malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) levels.ResultsThere was a statistically significant increase in the activity of MPO and MDA levels in the CLP group (group II) along with a decrease in GSH levels, colonic anastomotic HP contents, and bursting pressure values when compared to controls (group I). However, PDTC treatment led to a statistically significant increase in the tissue HP contents, GSH levels, and colonic anastomotic bursting pressure values, along with a decrease in MPO activity and MDA levels in group III (p < 0.05).ConclusionsThis study showed that PDTC treatment significantly prevented the delaying effect of CLP‐induced intraperitoneal sepsis on anastomotic healing in the colon. Further clinical studies are needed to clarify whether PDTC may be a useful therapeutic agent to increase the safety of the anastomosis during particular operations where sepsis‐induced injury occurs.
The Natural History and Traditional Management of Appendicitis Revisited: Spontaneous Resolution and Predominance of Prehospital Perforations Imply That a Correct Diagnosis is More Important Than an Early Diagnosis
Authors: Andersson Roland E. 
Published: December 2006

AbstractBackgroundThe principle of early exploration on wide indications in order to prevent perforation has been the guiding star for the management of patients with suspected appendicitis for over 100 years, dating back to a time when appendicitis was a significant cause of mortality. Since then there has been a dramatic decrease in mortality due to appendicitis. Emerging evidence calls for a new understanding of the natural history of untreated appendicitis. This motivates a reappraisal of the fundamental principles for the management of patients with suspected appendicitis.MethodsAnalysis of epidemiologic and clinical studies that elucidate the natural history of appendicitis, i.e. the possibility of spontaneous resolution or the risk of progression to perforation, the determinants of the proportion of perforations and mortality, and the consequence of in‐hospital delay.ResultsThe results presented in a number of studies suggest that spontaneous resolution of appendicitis is common, that perforation can seldom be prevented, that the risk of perforation has been exaggerated and that in‐hospital delay is safe. An alternative understanding of the inverse relationship between the proportion of negative explorations and perforation and the increasing proportion of perforation with length of time is presented, mainly explaining these findings by selection due to spontaneous resolution.ConclusionEvidence suggests that spontaneous resolution of untreated, non‐perforated appendicitis is common and that perforation can rarely be prevented and is associated with a lower increase in mortality than was previously thought. This motivates a shift in focus from the prevention of perforation to the early detection and treatment of advanced appendicitis. In order to minimize mortality, morbidity and costs avoidance of negative appendectomies is more important then preventing perforation. In patients with an equivocal diagnosis where advanced appendicitis is deemed less likely a correct diagnosis is more important than a rapid diagnosis. These patients can safely be managed by active observation with an improved diagnostic work‐up under observation, which has consistently shown a low proportion of negative appendectomies without an increase in the proportion of perforations or morbidity. A high proportion of perforations can be explained by selection due to undiagnosed resolving appendicitis. The proportion of perforation is therefore a questionable measure of the quality of the management of patients with suspected appendicitis and should be used with caution.
Improving Outcomes in Hernia Repair by the Use of Light Meshes—A Comparison of Different Implant Constructions Based on a Critical Appraisal of the Literature
Authors: Weyhe Dirk , Belyaev Orlin , Müller Christophe , Meurer Kirsten , Bauer Karl‐Heinz , Papapostolou Georgios , Uhl Waldemar 
Published: December 2006

AbstractBackgroundDespite convincing advantages offered by meshes, their use in hernia surgery remains controversial because of fears concerning the long‐term effects of their implantation. To improve biocompatibility, a large variety of newly developed light meshes has been introduced to the market.This overview of the literature aimed to establish whether absolute material reduction (g per implanted mesh), use of absorbable components, and coating by inert materials are evidence‐based ways to improve biocompatibility of meshes.MethodA review of the current English and German language literature on the outcome of groin und incisional hernia mesh repair was performed. Both basic research and clinical trials were used as sources of data. Meta‐analyses and randomized controlled trials were given priority and were referred to whenever possible.ResultsOperative technique was an independent prognostic factor for the clinical outcome. Mesh construction and composition as characterized by pore size and filament structure appeared to be more important determinants of foreign body reaction after implantation than absolute material reduction of 1 g or more per implant. No data exist about an oncogenic effect of alloplastic materials in humans, but disturbed fertility in animal studies remains an issue of concern and should be further investigated.ConclusionsAccording to data from current randomized controlled trials and retrospective studies, light meshes seem to have some advantages with respect to postoperative pain and foreign body sensation. However, their use is associated with increased recurrence rates. Light meshes offer no advantages with respect to alleviating severe chronic groin pain. At the same time, experimental data reveal that material composition and mesh structure may significantly affect foreign body reaction.
Measuring detergency of oily soils in the vicinity of phase inversion temperatures of commercial nonionic surfactants using an oil‐soluble dye
Authors: Goel Satish K. 
Published: December 2006

AbstractWe have used a simple technique to measure the detergency of model oily soil from 63∶35 blended polyester/cotton fabrics using solutions of commercial linear lauryl alcohol ethoxylates in the vicinity of their phase inversion temperatures (PIT). The method involves incorporation of an oil‐soluble dye in the oily soil, and measurement of reflectance at an appropriate wavelength directly on the fabric before and after wash. This technique was validated for our systems, and it provides an additional visual cue for the efficiency of soil removal. Hexadecane, which represents the linear hydrocarbon part of sebum (typical soil encountered in detergency) and has been widely studied in the literature, was used as the model oily soil. Maximal detergency occurs as a function of washing temperature at approximately 35, 62, and 80°C for ethoxylates with four, five, and six moles of ethylene oxide (C12EO4, C12EO5, and C12EO6), respectively. The oil/water interfacial tension, measured using the spinning drop method, exhibits corresponding minima and complements the detergency results. Addition of sodium carbonate, a salting‐out electrolyte, decreases the optimal detergency temperature (ODT) of C12EO5, shifting its behavior toward C12FO4 whereas addition of anionic surfactant increases the ODT of C12FO5, mimicking the behavior of a higher ethoxylate.
Foaming and emulsifying properties of soy protein isolate and hydrolysates in skin and hair care products
Authors: Wu Wu , Hettiarachchy N. S. 
Published: December 2006

AbstractThere is a growing market for formulating proteins into a wide variety of products including laundry detergents, bath products, shampoos, and skin cleansers. Soy protein isolate (SPI), soy protein hydrolysate A (SPHA) from papainmodified SPI, and hydrolysate B from papain‐ and proteasemodified SPI were used in blends with three major detergents, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), sodium laureth sulfate (SLS), and disodium lauryl sulfosuccinate (DSLSS). SPHA was used to partially replace these detergents in bath soap, conditioning shampoo, and cream hand cleanser. The effectiveness of SPI, SPHA, or SPHB blends with the three detergents and their influence in prototype products on foaming and emulsifying properties were investigated.At a blending ratio of 75% detergents and 25% proteins (75∶25), the foaming capacities (FC) were the same as detergents alone without adding proteins (100∶0); at 50∶50 blending ratio, FC values were not significantly reduced for blends with SDS and SLS; and at 25∶75 ratio the FC values were significantly lower, especially for blends with DSLSS. When replacing up to 100% of the major detergents in the skin and hair care products with SPHA, FC values remained almost unchanged except for hand cleanser FC values, which were lower at higher protein content (75 and 100%). In contrast with FC performance, emulsion stability (ES) values for all products increased with increasing soy protein content. Furthermore, FC and ES values for detergents blended with SPHA or SPHB were not significantly different from each other, but these values were always higher than those for detergents blended with SPI. Products in which soy protein or soy protein hydrolysates were used to partially replace detergents not only retained excellent foaming properties but also exhibited enhanced emulsifying properties. These results indicate that modified soy proteins may be used in laundry and cosmetic products to fulfill market demand.
Removal of cadmium and lead from soil using aescin as a biosurfactant
Authors: Hong Kyung‐Jin , Choi Young‐Kook , Tokunaga Shuzo , Ishigami Yutaka , Kajiuchi Toshio 
Published: December 2006

AbstractRemediation of a soil contaminated with cadmium or lead was performed by a soil washing process using aescin as a biosurfactant. The removal of cadmium and lead from the soil was evaluated as a function of aescin concentration and pH in a batch process. A 30‐mM aescin solution was most effective in the removal of cadmium and lead at pH 6.8. Cadmium and lead migrated from the soil to the aescin‐containing aqueous phase, depending on the pH value. We found that 41% of cadmium (pH 7.8) and 25% of lead (pH 2.8) in the soil matrix migrated into a 30‐mM aescin solution. Also, the complexation of aescin with cadmium and lead ions was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and electrical conductivity measurements. As a result, the maximal complexation capacity of aescin with metal ions was approximately aescin/cadmium=2∶1 and aescin/lead=3∶1 on a molar basis. It was suggested that aescin may sequester cadmium and lead ions by the carboxylic and saccharide moieties. Then, the complex of aescin with cadmium or lead may migrate to the aqueous phase as the result of dispersion.
Mechanisms of regulation of gene expression by fatty acids
Authors: Nakamura Manabu T. , Cheon Yewon , Li Yue , Nara Takayuki Y. 
Published: December 2006

AbstractFatty acids (FA) regulate the expression of genes involved in lipid and energy metabolism. In particular, two transcription factors, sterol regulatory element binding protein‐1c (SREBP‐1 c) and peroxisome proliferator activated receptor α (PPARα), have emerged as key mediators of gene regulation by FA. SREBP‐1 c induces a set of lipogenic enzymes in liver. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), but not saturated or mono‐unsaturated FA, suppress the induction of lipogenic genes by inhibiting the expression and processing of SREBP‐1c. This unique effect of PUFA suggests that SREBP‐1c may regulate the synthesis of unsaturated FA for incorporation, into glycerolipids and cholesteryl esters. PPARα plays an essential role in metabolic adaptation to fasting by inducing the genes for mitochondrial and peroxisomal FA oxidation as well as those for ketogenesis in mitochondria. FA released from adipose tissue during fasting are considered as ligands of PPARα. Dietary PUFA, except for 18∶2 n′6, are likely to induced FA oxidation enzymes via PPARα as “feed‐forward” mechanism. PPARα is also required for regulating the synthesis of highly unsaturated FA, indicating pleiotropic functions of PPARα in the regulation of lipid metabolic pathways. It is yet to be determined whether FA regulate other transcription factors such as liver‐X receptor, hepatocyte nuclear factor 4, and carbohydrate response element binding protein.
What's so special about cholesterol?
Authors: Mouritsen Ole G. , Zuckermann Martin J. 
Published: December 2006

AbstractCholesterol (or other higher sterols such as ergosterol and phytosterols) is universally present in large amounts (20–40 mol%) in eukaryotic plasma membranes, whereas it is universally absent in the membranes of prokaryotes. Cholesterol has a unique ability to increase lipid order in fluid membranes while maintaining fluidity and diffusion rates. Cholesterol imparts low permeability barriers to lipid membranes and provides for large mechanical coherence. A short topical review is given of these special properties of cholesterol in relation to the structure of membranes, with results drawn from a variety of theoretical and experimental studies. Particular focus is put on cholesterol's ability to promote a special membrane phase, the liquidordered phase, which is unique for cholesterol (and other higher sterols like ergosterol) and absent in membranes containing the cholesterol precursor lanosterol. Cholesterol's role in the formation of special membrane domains and so‐called rafts is discussed.
Effect of Ru Nanoparticle Size on Hydrogenation of Soybean Oil
Authors: Xu Binbin , Liew Kong Yong , Li Jinlin 
Published: December 2006

AbstractFour Ru nanoparticles of different mean sizes from 1.13 to 17.22 nm were prepared and used as catalysts for the selective hydrogenation of polyunsaturated soybean oil at 353 K and initial pressure of 1.5 MPa. The catalyst with the smallest mean size (1.13 nm) had the lowest activity, the activity increased as the mean size increased to 3.10 nm, then decreased with further increase in the mean particle size. Thecis–transisomerization rate decreased with the increase in particle size.
Self‐efficacy and imagery use in older adult exercisers
Authors: Wesch Natascha N. , Milne Marcia I. , Burke Shauna M. , Hall Craig R. 
Published: December 2006

AbstractThe aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between self‐efficacy and imagery use in older male (n = 40) and female (n = 52) exercisers. Participants’ self‐efficacy was evaluated using the Self‐Efficacy Questionnaire for Exercisers, and their use of imagery was evaluated using the Exercise Imagery Questionnaire. Results revealed that older adult exercisers were most efficacious in terms of the task, followed by scheduling physical activity into their daily routines, and finally overcoming barriers related to physical activity. Older adult exercisers also reported using appearance and technique imagery to much the same extent, but used both significantly more than energy imagery. In addition, energy imagery predicted task self‐efficacy but none of the three functions of imagery predicted barrier and scheduling self‐efficacy.
Anthropometric assessment of Premiership soccer players in relation to playing position
Authors: Hencken Clare , White Colin 
Published: December 2006

AbstractA squad of Premiership soccer players (n=24) provided informed consent to participate in this study. Using ISAK (International Society of Advancement of Kinanthropometry) accredited methods, a total of 39 measurements (sectioned as: skinfolds, girths, lengths, and breadths) were made for each player. The procedure involved three measures at each site to calculate a mean value and an acceptable technical error margin. All data collection was performed by an ISAK level 3 accredited anthropometrist. The data analysis consisted of demographic and anthropometric data, including fractionation of body mass and estimated body fat from sum of skinfolds. Scaling of the raw data was done by using the phantom strategem to obtain calculated data for inter‐player comparison. Mean calculated scores for playing position were obtained. A multivariate analysis of variance revealed no differences between positions (F 15,41.810=0.783, P=0.688). Previous studies have reported heterogeneity between playing positions. However, in this study, stature and body mass were not different between strikers, midfielders, defenders, and goalkeepers. Research has suggested that a soccer player's anthropometric dimensions can be a major determinant for success within a playing position. In this study, within‐position variation was quite large in some cases, which could indicate that a team that does not have the opportunity to hand‐pick players, based on anthropometric characteristics, may be at a disadvantage.
Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy in Children: A Safe Technique with Major Symptom Relief and High Parental Satisfaction
Authors: Åvitsland Tone Lise , Kristensen Charlotte , Emblem Ragnhild , Veenstra Marijke , Mala Tom , Bjørnland Kristin 
Published: December 2006

ABSTRACTBackground:Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is widely used for establishing enteral feeding. The aim of this study was to assess immediate and long‐term results after PEG insertion.Patients and Methods:A total of 121 children were retrospectively reviewed. Median age was 2.4 years (range, 4 months–13.2 years) at the time of PEG insertion. Patient morbidity, indications for PEG, preoperative findings and perioperative complications were registered retrospectively. Parents/caregivers of 85 children were interviewed for long‐term results.Results:Perioperative complications were seen in 12%. Twenty‐four percent died at a median of 15 months (range, 1.5 months–8 years) after PEG. Eighty‐five families were interviewed with a median follow‐up time of 5.6 years (range, 1–10 years). A substantial majority (94%) of parents/caregivers reported that the PEG had a positive influence on their child's situation, and 98% would have chosen PEG insertion again. Vomiting/retching improved in 61% of the children, and oral intake enhanced in 43%. Stoma‐related complications were frequent (73%). The gastrostomy tube was permanently removed at a median of 3 years (range, 7 months–7.3 years) after PEG placement in 25%. Delayed closure of the gastrocutaneous fistula after gastrostomy removal occurred in 48% of them. Time from insertion to removal was not predictive of delayed closure.Conclusion:PEG is a safe technique for establishing enteral feeding, even in very sick children. Major complications are rare, although most children experience minor stoma‐related problems. Parents/caregivers report that the gastrostomy is of great help for themselves and their child.