bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Ginkgo biloba extract reduces naphthalene‐induced oxidative damage in mice
Authors: Tozan Ayfer , Şehirli Özer , Omurtag Gülden Z. , Cetinel Sule , Gedik Nursal , Şener Göksel 
Published: November 2006

AbstractThis investigation elucidated the role of free radicals in naphthalene‐induced toxicity and protection by Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb). BALB‐c mice of either sex were administered with naphthalene (100 mg/kg; i.p.) for 30 days, along with either saline or EGb (150 mg/kg, orally). At the end of the experiment, following decapitation, lung, liver and kidney tissue samples were taken for histological examination or determination of malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and collagen contents. In addition, proinflammatory cytokines (TNF‐α and IL‐β) and total antioxidant capacity (AOC) were assayed in the plasma, while lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity was assayed in serum samples. The results revealed that naphthalene caused a significant decrease in GSH level, and significant increases in MDA level, MPO activity and collagen content of tissues. Similarly, plasma cytokines, as well as serum LDH activity, were elevated while AOC was decreased in the naphthalene group compared with the control group. On the other hand, EGb treatment reversed all these biochemical indices. The results demonstrate that EGb extract, by balancing the oxidant–antioxidant status and inhibiting the generation of proinflammatory cytokines and neutrophil infiltration, protects against naphthalene‐induced oxidative organ injury. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Testing software components for integration: a survey of issues and techniques
Authors: Jaffar‐ur Rehman Muhammad , Jabeen Fakhra , Bertolino Antonia , Polini Andrea 
Published: November 2006

AbstractComponent‐based development has emerged as a system engineering approach that promises rapid software development with fewer resources. Yet, improved reuse and reduced cost benefits from software components can only be achieved in practice if the components provide reliable services, thereby rendering component analysis and testing a key activity. This paper discusses various issues that can arise in component testing by the component user at the stage of its integration within the target system. The crucial problem is the lack of information for analysis and testing of externally developed components. Several testing techniques for component integration have recently been proposed. These techniques are surveyed here and classified according to a proposed set of relevant attributes. The paper thus provides a comprehensive overview which can be useful as introductory reading for newcomers in this research field, as well as to stimulate further investigation. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Impact of Cuffed, Expanded Polytetrafluoroethylene Dialysis Grafts on Graft Outlet Stenosis
Authors: Liu Yun‐Hen , Hung Yen‐Ni , Hsieh Hung‐Chang , Ko Po‐Jen 
Published: November 2006

AbstractBackgroundThe objective of this study was to determine prospectively the difference between the graft outlet strictures of a polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) graft with a cuff at the graft‐vein anastomosis (Venaflo; Bard industries, Tempe, Ariz.) and that of the regular ePTFE graft (Stretch Gore‐Tex; Gore, Flagstaff, Ariz.) placed for hemodialysis access.MethodsBetween January and April 2005, 36 consecutive patients (average age: 63.3 years) underwent ePTFE graft implantation (36 implantations) for hemodialysis at the Vascular Surgery Section of Chang Gung Memorial Hospital. The patients of the study cohort were randomly assigned to two groups based on the graft used: cuffed graft group (Venaflo graft) and non‐cuffed standard graft group (Gore‐Tex graft). Each patient underwent antegrade venography at the 3‐month follow‐up to demonstrate the graft outlet stricture. Results of the graft outlet angiography analysis were examined, and all medical records were reviewed at end of the study. The degree of the graft outlet stenosis was compared between the two groups.ResultsAverage stenosis of the cuffed graft group and non‐cuffed (standard) graft group were 22.76 ± 26.37%% and 44.95 ± 27.48%%, respectively; the difference between the two groups was statistically significant (P < 0.05).ConclusionsThe graft outlet stricture of cuffed ePTFE grafts for hemodialysis 3 months after implantation was less severe than that for the standard ePTFE graft. The correlation between the stricture level and dialysis graft patency requires further clarification.
Spatial dynamics, social norms, and the opportunity of the commons
Authors: Vincent Jeffrey R. 
Published: November 2006

AbstractThe most important message of Levin (Ecol Res 21:328–333, 2006) is that “Ecologists and economists have much incentive for interaction.” Recent studies that account for evolutionary processes and local interactions support this view by obtaining results that run counter to conventional wisdom within resource economics. A second major message of the article is that to meet environmental challenges, humanity must develop social norms that enhance cooperative responses. Successful examples of resource management systems back up norms with economic incentives: rewards for good behavior and punishments for bad. Economic incentives are especially important if rapid and large changes in human behavior are desired.
An investigation of the cumulative impacts of shrimp trawling on mud-bottom fishing grounds in the Gulf of Maine: effects on habitat and macrofaunal community structure
Authors: Simpson Anne W. , Watling Les 
Published: November 2006

Abstract
The cumulative impacts (i.e. collective, multi-year effects) of seasonal commercial shrimp trawling on habitat and macrofaunal community structure were investigated for two mud-bottom fishing grounds and adjacent untrawled areas in the Gulf of Maine. Habitat structure on mud-bottom fishing grounds did not differ significantly from that in similar untrawled areas. Moreover, sediment resuspension associated with shrimp trawling did not appear to result in net loss of deposited material on fishing grounds, but there is evidence that trawling may alter sediment mixing regimes. Visual inspection of the sediment surface in trawled areas revealed minimal evidence of fishing gear disturbance (such as door, bobbin, or net marks), but biological disturbance features, including numerous large burrows, pits, and dense aggregations of the brittle star Ophiura sarsi, were present in both trawled and untrawled areas. Macrofaunal communities on the two fishing grounds exhibited different responses to shrimp trawling, which were attributed to disparities in levels of fishing activity during the 2000–2001 shrimp season. The results suggest that seasonal shrimp trawling produced at least short-term changes (<3 months) in macrofaunal community structure, but did not appear to result in long-term cumulative changes. Resilience to trawling disturbance may be due in part to high levels of biological disturbance generated by benthic megafauna, such as lobsters and fish. By burrowing, pit-digging, and possibly foraging, these animals rework sediments to a depth of 16–17 cm, creating a natural level of disturbance that appears to maintain macrofaunal communities in a perpetually low successional state, so potentially minimizing trawling impacts.
Slip velocity and lift
Authors: JOSEPH D. D. , OCANDO D. 
Published: November 2006

The lift force on a circular particle in plane Poiseuille flow perpendicular to gravity is
studied by direct numerical simulation. The angular slip velocity Ωs=Ωp+½γ˙, where
−½γ˙ is the angular velocity of the fluid at a point where the shear rate is γ˙ and Ωp
is the angular velocity of the particle, is always positive at an equilibrium position at
which the hydrodynamic lift balances the buoyant weight. The particle migrates to its
equilibrium position and adjusts Ωp so that Ωs > 0 is nearly zero because Ωp ≈ −1/2γ˙
No matter where the particle is placed, it drifts to an equilibrium position with a
unique, slightly positive equilibrium angular slip velocity. The angular slip velocity
discrepancy defined as the difference between the angular slip velocity of a migrating
particle and the angular slip velocity at its equilibrium position is positive below the
position of equilibrium and negative above it. This discrepancy is the quantity that
changes sign above and below the equilibrium position for neutrally buoyant particles,
and also above and below the lower equilibrium position for heavy particles. The
existence and properties of unstable positions of equilibrium due to newly identified
turning-point transitions and those near the centreline are discussed.The long particle model of Choi & Joseph (2001) that gives rise to an explicit
formula for the particle velocity and the velocity profile across the channel through
the centreline of the particle is modified to include the effect of the rotation of the
particle. In view of the simplicity of the model, the explicit formula for Up and the
velocity profile are in surprisingly good agreement with simulation values. The value
of the Poiseuille flow velocity at the point at the particle's centre when the particle is
absent is always larger than the particle velocity; the slip velocity is positive at steady
flow.
Shell shock: an outcome study of a First World War ‘PIE’ unit
Authors: JONES EDGAR , THOMAS ADAM , IRONSIDE STEPHEN 
Published: November 2006

Background. ‘Forward psychiatry’ was introduced by the French Army in 1915 to stem the loss of troops to base hospitals. Also known by the acronym PIE (proximity to the battle, immediacy of treatment and expectancy of recovery, including return to duty), it was subsequently used by the British and Americans in both World Wars. The US Army used PIE techniques in Korea and Vietnam. Although widely accepted as an effective intervention, forward psychiatry is not amenable to random-controlled trials and only one controlled outcome study has been conducted.Method. All 3580 soldiers with shell shock admitted to 4 Stationary Hospital between January and November 1917 were recorded. Unit details, military experience, length of stay and outcomes were analysed. Soldiers were categorized into combat, combat-support and non-combatant groups. Admissions were correlated with military operations to compare the impact of defensive and offensive phases of warfare.Results. Rates of admission for shell shock rose significantly during offensives when physical casualties escalated. Combat troops were disproportionately represented. Over 50% of admissions had less than 9 months service in France and 21% broke down within 3 months of going overseas. Less than 20% returned directly to combat units, most going to other hospitals, convalescent depots or base duties.Conclusions. Forward psychiatry was not effective in returning combat troops to fighting units but, by allocating soldiers to support roles, it prevented discharge from the armed forces. Uncertainties remain about relapses, including other routes that servicemen used to escape from a combat zone.
Inferential, robust non-negative matrix factorization analysis of microarray data
Authors: Fogel Paul , Young S. Stanley , Hawkins Douglas M. , Ledirac Nathalie 
Published: November 2006

AbstractMotivation: Modern methods such as microarrays, proteomics and metabolomics often produce datasets where there are many more predictor variables than observations. Research in these areas is often exploratory; even so, there is interest in statistical methods that accurately point to effects that are likely to replicate. Correlations among predictors are used to improve the statistical analysis. We exploit two ideas: non-negative matrix factorization methods that create ordered sets of predictors; and statistical testing within ordered sets which is done sequentially, removing the need for correction for multiple testing within the set.Results: Simulations and theory point to increased statistical power. Computational algorithms are described in detail. The analysis and biological interpretation of a real dataset are given. In addition to the increased power, the benefit of our method is that the organized gene lists are likely to lead better understanding of the biology.Availability: An SAS JMP executable script is available fromContact: young@niss.orgSupplementary information:
Neural network prediction of peptide separation in strong anion exchange chromatography
Authors: Oh Cheolhwan , Żak Stanislaw H. , Mirzaei Hamid , Buck Charles , Regnier Fred E. , Zhang Xiang 
Published: November 2006

AbstractMotivation: The still emerging combination of technologies that enable description and characterization of all expressed proteins in a biological system is known as proteomics. Although many separation and analysis technologies have been employed in proteomics, it remains a challenge to predict peptide behavior during separation processes. New informatics tools are needed to model the experimental analysis method that will allow scientists to predict peptide separation and assist with required data mining steps, such as protein identification.Results: We developed a software package to predict the separation of peptides in strong anion exchange (SAX) chromatography using artificial neural network based pattern classification techniques. A multi-layer perceptron is used as a pattern classifier and it is designed with feature vectors extracted from the peptides so that the classification error is minimized. A genetic algorithm is employed to train the neural network. The developed system was tested using 14 protein digests, and the sensitivity analysis was carried out to investigate the significance of each feature.Availability: The software and testing results can be downloaded from .Contact: zhang100@purdue.edu
AGScan: a pluggable microarray image quantification software based on the ImageJ library
Authors: Cathelin R. , Lopez F. , Klopp Ch. 
Published: November 2006

AbstractSummary: Many different programs are available to analyze microarray images. Most programs are commercial packages, some are free. In the latter group only few propose automatic grid alignment and batch mode. More often than not a program implements only one quantification algorithm. AGScan is an open source program that works on all major platforms. It is based on the ImageJ library [Rasband (1997–2006)] and offers a plug-in extension system to add new functions to manipulate images, align grid and quantify spots. It is appropriate for daily laboratory use and also as a framework for new algorithms.Availability: The program is freely distributed under X11 Licence. The install instructions can be found in the user manual. The software can be downloaded from . The questions and plug-ins can be sent to the contact listed below.Contact: christophe.klopp@toulouse.inra.fr
The transition to menopause reinforces adiponectin production and its contribution to improvement of insulin‐resistant state
Authors: Tamakoshi Koji , Yatsuya Hiroshi , Wada Keiko , Matsushita Kunihiro , Otsuka Rei , Yang Pei Ou , Sugiura Kaichiro , Hotta Yo , Mitsuhashi Hirotsugu , Takefuji Seiko , Kondo Takaaki , Toyoshima Hideaki 
Published: November 2006

SummaryObjective  To evaluate the influence of menopausal status on the serum adiponectin concentration and investigate whether the contribution of adiponectin to insulin resistance is modified by menopausal status.Subjects  We conducted a population‐based, cross‐sectional study of 207 premenopausal and 206 postmenopausal Japanese women.Measurements  Data on anthropometric characteristics, fasting serum adiponectin, glucose and insulin concentrations were used. Insulin resistance (homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance: HOMA‐IR) was calculated.Results  Postmenopausal women had significantly higher HOMA‐IRs than premenopausal women [1·50 (1·42, 1·59) vs 1·18 (1·12, 1·24), geometric mean (1 standard error range), P = 0·005]. Paradoxically, adiponectin levels in postmenopausal women were also significantly higher than those in premenopausal women [10·3 (9·95, 10·7) vs 9·04 (8·71, 9·39), P = 0·028]. Multiple regression analysis showed that body mass index (BMI) was the only significantly independent predictor [standardized partial regression coefficients (sβ) = 0·319, P < 0·001] for HOMA‐IR among premenopausal women, whereas both BMI and adiponectin were the significant predictors among postmenopausal (sβ = 0·334 and −0·141, P < 0·001 and < 0·05, respectively). When the subjects were restricted to those without metabolic disorders including high blood pressure, hypertriglyceridaemia, hypo‐HDL cholesterolaemia and high fasting glucose, adiponectin (sβ = −0·249, P < 0·05) was the only significant predictor for HOMA‐IR among postmenopausal women but BMI was not significant (sβ = 0·223, P = 0·075).Conclusions  The transition to menopause increases serum adiponectin concentrations. And the significant and negative association between adiponectin and HOMA‐IR was observed only after menopause. Therefore, adiponectin may play a role in the improvement of an incipient insulin‐resistant state after, rather than before, menopause.
Global spatial patterns and temporal trends of burned area between 1981 and 2000 using NOAA‐NASA Pathfinder
Authors: RIAÑO D. , MORENO RUIZ J. A. , ISIDORO D. , USTIN S. L. 
Published: November 2006

AbstractAn analysis of the spatial and temporal patterns of global burned area with the Daily Tile US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration‐Advanced Very High‐Resolution Radiometer Pathfinder 8 km Land dataset between 1981 and 2000 is presented. Nine distinct temporal and spatial fire patterns were identified at the global scale using principal components and cluster analysis. Three major fire seasons were identified from June to December and from February to June for different areas of the northern hemisphere and from October to March for the southern hemisphere. The area burned primarily followed the annual cycle and secondarily, an important 6‐month cycle. Temporal cycles were unimportant in some equatorial and tropical areas in the northern hemisphere. The total annual burned area has not increased in the last 20 years but a significant increase was found in the mid‐latitude and subtropical areas of the northern hemisphere which was offset by a slight decrease in burned area in tropical southeast Asia and Central America. Additionally, burned area has significantly increased during the summer in the mid‐latitudes of the northern hemisphere and in the boreal region, and the fire season starts earlier in the mid‐latitudes. Total burned area was explained by the extent of savanna (wooded grassland) cover. Latitude was not determinative as divergent fire patterns were encountered and did not have an impact on extent of burned area at our spatial level of analysis.
Organizational configuration of hospitals succeeding in attracting and retaining nurses
Authors: Stordeur Sabine , D'Hoore William ,   the NEXT‐Study Group
Published: November 2006

Abstract Title. Organizational configuration of hospitals succeeding in attracting and retaining nurses Aim.  This paper contrasts structural and managerial characteristics of low‐ and high‐turnover hospitals, and describes the organizational configuration of attractive hospitals.Background.  In countries facing nurse shortages and turnover, some hospitals succeed in recruiting and retaining nurses. In Magnet Hospitals, managerial practices and environmental characteristics increase nurses’ job satisfaction and their commitment to the organization, which in turn decreases nurse turnover. Such an approach suggests that organizations are best understood as clusters of interconnected structures and practices, i.e. organizational configurations rather than entities whose components can be understood in isolation.Method.  From a sample of 12 hospitals whose nurse turnover was studied for 1 year, structural and organizational features of hospitals in the first and fourth quartiles, i.e. attractive (turnover <3·1%) vs. conventional (turnover >11·8%) were contrasted. A questionnaire, including perceptions of health‐related factors, job demands, stressors, work schedules, organizational climate, and work adjustments antecedent to turnover, was received from 401 nurses working in attractive hospitals (response rate = 53·8%) and 774 nurses in conventional hospitals (response rate = 54·5%).Findings.  Structural characteristics did not differentiate attractive and conventional hospitals, but employee perceptions towards the organization differed strikingly. Differences were observed for risk exposure, emotional demands, role ambiguity and conflicts, work‐family conflicts, effort‐reward imbalance and the meaning of work, all in favour of attractive hospitals (P < 0·001). Relationships with nursing management, work ability and satisfaction with working time, handover shifts and schedules were also better in attractive hospitals (P < 0·001). Job satisfaction and commitment were higher in attractive hospitals, whereas burnout and intention to leave were lower (P < 0·001).Conclusion.  Organizational characteristics are key factors in nurse attraction and retention. Nurses face difficulties in their work situations, but some hospitals are perceived as healthy organizations. The concept of attractive institutions could serve as a catalyst for improvement in nurses’ work environments in Europe.
Dietetic guidelines on food and nutrition in the secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease – evidence from systematic reviews of randomized controlled trials (second update, January 2006)
Authors: Mead A. , Atkinson G. , Albin D. , Alphey D. , Baic S. , Boyd O. , Cadigan L. , Clutton L. , Craig L. , Flanagan C. , Greene P. , Griffiths E. , Lee N. J. , Li M. , McKechnie L. , Ottaway J. , Paterson K. , Perrin L. , Rigby P. , Stone D. , Vine R. , Whitehead J. , Wray L. , Hooper L. ,   on behalf of the UK Heart Health and Thoracic Dietitians Interest Group (Specialist group of the British Dietetic Association)
Published: November 2006

AbstractAim  To update dietetic guidelines based on systematic review evidence on dietary advice to prevent further events in people with existing cardiovascular disease (CVD) (secondary prevention).Methods  The Cochrane Library, MEDLINE and EMBASE were comprehensively searched to January 2005 for systematic reviews on aspects of diet and heart health. Reviews were included if they searched systematically for randomized controlled trials relating to diet and secondary prevention of CVD. Each review was critically appraised by at least two members of the UK Heart Health and Thoracic Dietitians Group. The quality and results of each review were discussed and summarized at a group meeting.Results  Evidence‐based strategies that reduce cardiovascular events in those with CVD include reduction in saturated fat and substitution with unsaturated fats. Individuals who have suffered a myocardial infarction may also benefit from adopting a Mediterranean type diet and increasing intake of omega 3 fats, but it is not clear whether they are beneficial for all patients with CVD. There is no systematic review evidence to support the use of antioxidant vitamins supplements, low glycaemic index diets, or homocysteine lowering therapies in this group.Conclusion  There remains good evidence that reducing saturated fat reduces morbidity in patients with CVD. This advice is consistent for most manifestations of CVD, with the addition of Mediterranean dietary advice and increased omega 3 fats for those who have had a myocardial infarction.