bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of anaerobic gut fungi in ruminants
Authors: Gordon Geoffrey L. R. , Phillips Michael W.
Published: August 2005

Anaerobic chytridiomycete fungi are found in the gastrointestinal tracts of sheep, cattle and goats, as well as in many other domesticated ruminant and nonruminant herbivores and a wide variety of wild herbivorous mammals. They are principally found associated with the fibrous plant particles of digesta and as free swimming zoospores in the fluid phase. The presence of large fungal populations in animals consuming mature pasture or diets largely composed of hay or straw together with the production of highly active fibre degrading enzymes lead to' the belief that anaerobic fungi may have a significant role to play in the assimilation of fibrous feeds by ruminants. While many early studies focused on anaerobic fungi because of their unusual biology and metabolism, the large part of subsequent research has emphasized the biotechnological potential of their cellulases, xylanases and phenolic esterases. In recent years, the extent of the contribution of anaerobic fungi to the nutrition of ruminants has also been established through studies of fungal populations in the rumen and the dietary factors which influence them, as presented in this review. Further, we discuss the evidence supporting an important contribution of anaerobic fungal populations in the rumen to feed intake and digestion of poor quality feed by domesticated ruminants. In conclusion, the review explores some different methods for manipulating fungi in the rumen for increased feed intake and digestion.
Assessing dietary intake: Who, what and why of under-reporting
Authors: Macdiarmid Jennie , Blundell John
Published: August 2005

Under-reporting of food intake is one of the fundamental obstacles preventing the collection of accurate habitual dietary intake data. The prevalence of under-reporting in large nutritional surveys ranges from 18 to 54% of the whole sample, but can be as high as 70% in particular subgroups. This wide variation between studies is partly due to different criteria used to identify under-reporters and also to non-uniformity of under-reporting across populations. The most consistent differences found are between men and women and between groups differing in body mass index. Women are more likely to under-report than men, and under-reporting is more common among overweight and obese individuals. Other associated characteristics, for which there is less consistent evidence, include age, smoking habits, level of education, social class, physical activity and dietary restraint.

Determining whether under-reporting is specific to macronutrients or food is
problematic, as most methods identify only low energy intakes. Studies that have
attempted to measure under-reporting specific to macronutrients express nutrients as percentage of energy and have tended to find carbohydrate under-reported and protein over-reported. However, care must be taken when interpreting these results, especially when data are expressed as percentages. A logical conclusion is that food items with a negative health image (e.g. cakes, sweets, confectionery) are more likely to be under-reported, whereas those with a positive health image are more likely to be over-reported (e.g. fruits and vegetables). This also suggests that dietary fat is likely to be under-reported.

However, it is necessary to distinguish between under-reporting and genuine under-eating for the duration of data collection. The key to understanding this problem, but one that has been widely neglected, concerns the processes that cause people to under-report their food intakes. The little work that has been done has simply confirmed the complexity of this issue. The importance of obtaining accurate estimates of habitual dietary intakes so as to assess health correlates of food consumption can be contrasted with the poor quality of data collected. This phenomenon should be considered a priority research area. Moreover, misreporting is not simply a nutritionist's problem, but requires a multidisciplinary approach (including psychology, sociology and physiology) to advance the understanding of under-reporting in dietary intake studies.
Lipids and infant formulas
Authors: Forsyth J. S.
Published: August 2005

The ultimate goal in the design of infant formula is to achieve the outcome seen in breast fed infants. This review of lipids in infant formulas for term infants begins by referring to the lipid composition of human milk, and relates that to differences in lipid digestion and metabolism which exist between breast fed and formula fed infants and which may significantly influence fatty acid bioavailability.

Recommendations are made for the lipid content and fatty acid composition of term infant formulas (especially for lauric, linoleic, α-linolenic, long chain 20 and 22C n-3 and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids and thetransfatty acids).

Further research is required to define more clearly the long term nutritional, growth and developmental effects of structured lipids in formulas for term infants. More information is required on the differential handling of LCPUFA and other fatty acids at the organ and cellular level. There is a need for large (multi-centre) randomized studies to determine the short and long term functional effects of LCPUFA supplementation. Further research and development is required to determine a commercial source of LCPUFA which is safe, effective and economic. Further information is required on the short and long term effects of cholesterol intake during infancy, and in particular its relationship to LCPUFA metabolism. Long term studies should be initiated to determine the relationship of infant diet (especially saturated fatty acid and cholesterol intake) to the development of cardiovascular disease.
Sales data of a supermarket – a tool for monitoring nutrition interventions
Authors: Närhinen Maria , Nissinen Aulikka , Puska Pekka
Published: August 2005

Objective:

The aim of the study was to examine the daily variations in sales data for individual food items in a supermarket and to assess the usefulness of the computerized sales data of supermarkets for reliable monitoring and evaluation of shopping behaviour.

Design:

Longitudinal observational study.

Setting:

The study was carried out in one supermarket in Mikkeli, Finland. Seventy-nine packed food items from food groups important for salt and fat intake were monitored. In all food groups both ‘healthier’ and ‘reference’ products were included for assessment of both direct sales and proportional sales. The sales data were collected daily for 2 months in May and September 1996 by reading the European Article Numbering (EAN) codes of the packed foods.

Results:

The proportional sales turned out to be a more stable and useful measure than the direct sales data and the variation remained the same when the monitoring time was increased from 1 week to 1 month.

Conclusion:

Proportional sales data are proposed as a tool for measuring the effect of nutrition interventions and also as a possible indirect assessment for population salt and fat intake.
Development and testing of a quantitative food frequency questionnaire for use in Kerala, India
Authors: Hebert James R , Gupta Prakash C , Bhonsle Ramesh B , Murti PR , Mehta Hemali , Verghese Florence , Aghi Mira , Krishnaswamy Kamala , Mehta Fali S
Published: August 2005

Objective:

To develop and test a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) for use in rural areas of Kerala, India.

Design:

Based on food use and market surveys of the study area, a quantitative 81-item interviewer-administered FFQ was developed. A validation study was conducted consisting of 24-h diet recalls (24HR) administered on 8 days randomly selected over an entire year and two administrations of the FFQ, one at the beginning of the l-year period and the other at the end. FFQ and 24HR-derived nutrient scores were compared using correlation and regression analyses and by examining differences in the nutrient scores.

Setting:

Rural villages in Ernakulum district, Kerala, South India.

Subjects:

In each of 30 households, the male head of household and female food preparer were enrolled.

Results:

Pearson (parametric) correlation coefficients (rp) averaged about 0.50 in comparing nutrient scores derived from the 24HR with those from the first FFQ and about 0.55 in comparing the second FFQ. On average, Spearman correlation coefficients (rs) were slightly lower than the rp in comparing the scores derived from the first FFQ, but virtually identical for the second FFQ. Regression analyses indicated better agreement in the comparison of the 24HR-derived scores with the first FFQ than the second FFQ. Difference scores, however, tended to be larger in comparing the first FFQ scores with the 24HR.

Conclusions:

This FFQ produces results broadly comparable to those used in Europe and North America, indicating its suitability for comparing exposures within a study population in reference to health-related endpoints.
Alcohol consumption and risk of benign proliferative epithelial disorders of the breast: a case–cohort study
Authors: Rohan Thomas E , Jain Meera , Miller Anthony B
Published: August 2005

Objective:

To study the association between alcohol consumption and risk of benign proliferative epithelial disorders (BPED) of the breast (conditions which are thought to have premalignant potential).

Design:

Case–cohort study.

Setting:

The study was undertaken within the 56, 537 women in the Canadian National Breast Screening Study (NBSS) who completed self-administered dietary questionnaires. (The NBSS is a randomized controlled trial of screening for breast cancer in women aged 40–59 years at recruitment.)

Subjects:

The study subjects were the 657 women in the dietary cohort who were diagnosed with biopsy-confirmed incident BPED. For comparative purposes, a subcohort consisting of a random sample of 5681 women was selected from the full dietary cohort. After exclusions for various reasons, the analyses were based on 557 cases and 5028 non-cases.

Results:

When compared to non-drinkers, rate ratios (95%CI) for those consuming >0 and ≤10 g of ethanol day−1,>10 and≤20 g day−1, >20 and ≤30 g day1 and >30 g day1 were 0.35(0.27–0.45), 0.26(0.18–0.39), 0.29(0.18–0.48), and 0.23(0.13–0.40), respectively (the associated P value for the trend was 0.089). Similar findings were obtained from analyses conducted separately in the screened and control arms of the NBSS, in premenopausal and postmenopausal women, and for non-atypical and atypical forms of BPED, and there was little difference between the results for screen-detected and interval-detected BPED.

Conclusions:

Alcohol consumption was associated with a non-dose-dependent reduction in risk of BPED
Intake of fruits, vegetables, folic acid and related nutrients and risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women
Authors: Thorand Barbara , Kohlmeier Lenore , Simonsen Naal , Croghan Carry , Thamm Michael
Published: August 2005

Objective:

To determine the role of fruit and vegetable consumption and dietary intake of folic acid and related nutrients such as methionine, cysteine and alcohol in the aetiology of breast cancer.

Design:

Population based case-control study.

Setting:

Part of the European Community Multicentre Study on Antioxidants, Myocardial Infarction, and Cancer of the Breast (EURAMIC) in Berlin, Germany.

subjects:

As part of the EURAMIC study, dietary intake data were collected in 43 postmenopausal women diagnosed with breast cancer between 191 and 1992 in Berlin, Germany, and compared to 106 population-based controls.

Results:

Odds ratios (ORs) adjusted for major risk factors of breast cancer but not for total energy intake showed a non-significant inverse association between a high intake of vegetables (OR=0.76, 95% CI=0.48–1.20) and fruits (OR=0.74, 95% CI=0.48–1.15) and breast cancer. Once results were adjusted for total energy intake the associations became much weaker (vegetables: OR=0.86, 95% CI=0.51–1.46; fruits: OR=0.82, 95% CI=0.51–1.32). For all nutrients, the effect of energy adjustment was more profound and the inverse associations disappeared when results were adjusted for energy intake (total folate—not energy adjusted: OR=0.79, 95% CI=O.51–1.21; energy adjusted: OR=1.14, 95% CI=0.73–1.79; folate equivalents-not energy adjusted: OR=0.81, 95% CI= 0.53–1.23; energy adjusted: OR=1.16, 95% CI=0.78–1.74; methionine—not energy adjusted: OR=0.60, 95% CI=0.35–1.03; energy adjusted: OR=1.29, 95% CI=0.76–2.19; cysteine—not energy adjusted: OR=0.52, 95% CI=0.29–0.94; energy adjusted: OR=1.22, 95% CI=0.75–1.97). Alcohol intake was inversely associated with breast cancer in a non-significant way, possibly due to the relatively low alcohol intake of the study population.

Conclusions:

The results of this study do not provide firm evidence that a high intake of fruits and vegetables, folic acid, methionine or cysteine reduces the risk of getting breast cancer.
Food consumption patterns in the adult population of the Basque Country (EINUT-I)
Authors: Aranceta J , Rodrigo C Pérez , Eguileor I , Marzana I , de Galdeano L González , de Buruaga J Saenz
Published: August 2005

Objective:

Dietary surveys are a valuable tool in nutrition surveillance programmes to monitor the nutritional status of a group or population of a country. The objective of this study was to assess the food consumption pattern in the adult population of the Basque Country (Spain).

Design:

A cross-sectional nutritional survey was carried out in 1990. Dietary habits were assessed by means of ‘24-h recall’ during 3 non-consecutive days and a food frequency questionnaire.

Setting:

Population survey in the Basque Country (Spain).

Subjects:

Random sample of the adult population (25–60 years) in the Basque Country (n=2348).

Results:

Results draw a food pattern characterized by a high consumption of meat, 163±3.04 g day−1(mean±SEM), supplied mainly by poultry, butchery products, veal and fish (88±2.68 g day−1). The average consumption of milk and dairy products was 359±5.19 g day−1, although 39% of the sample did consume less than 2 portions from this group of foods daily. Olive oil was the most widely used fat for cooking (4i%), followed by sunflower seed oil (30%). Cereals supplied 21.5% of the average energy intake and the consumption of vegetables and garden products was 159±3.13 g day−1. Only 29% of the group usually had 2 or more portions of vegetables per day. Women consumed higher amounts of chocolate, cookies, sweets and coffee (P < 0.01) than men. Younger adults consumed more meat (P < 0.01), while the older community consumed more fish, vegetables and fruit (P < 0.01). More highly educated people consumed more dairy products, vegetables and butter (P < 0.01). Conversely, less educated people consumed higher amounts of olive oil, pulses and bread (P < 0.01).

Conclusions:

The dietary pattern observed in the Basque Country, although in keeping with its traditions, is in harmony with the actual dietary trends in Mediterranean countries. In order to satisfy the dietary guidelines suggested by the Spanish Society of Community Nutrition, it would be desirable to gradually increase the consumption of vegetables, fresh garden produce, fruit and cereals. At the same time, it would be advisable to decrease the consumption of animal products (whole fat dairy products, meat, added fats) so the proportion of energy intake from fat can be reduced by 5% (3% from saturated fatty acids).
Predicting percentage of individuals consuming foods from percentage of households purchasing foods to improve the use of household budget surveys in estimating food chemical intakes
Authors: Lambe Joyce , Kearney John , Becker Wulf , Hulshof Karin , Dunne Adrian , Gibney Michael J
Published: August 2005

Objective:

To examine the hypothesis that there is sufficient agreement between percentage of households purchasing selected foods using household budget surveys and percentage of individuals consuming these foods as determined in individual-based surveys to allow the former to act as a surrogate for the latter when estimating food chemical intakes using household budget data.

Design:

Database study.

Setting:

Databases from Sweden, The Netherlands, Ireland and the UK.

Subjects:

319 foods (Sweden n=60, The Netherlands n=80, Ireland n=90, UK n=89).

Results:

Pearson correlations demonstrated a high degree of linear association between % households purchasing and % consumers (r=0.86). Regression analysis defined a close positive relationship between the two datasets (slope 0.95, intercept +2.74). Across countries, using the regression equation, the % households predicted % consumers to within 5% of the true value for between 33 and 48% of foods and to within 10% for between 53 and 78% of foods.

Conclusions:

Values for % households can be used as a crude surrogate for % consumers and can thus play a role in improving estimates of food additive intake.
Reducing iron deficiency anaemia due to heavy menstrual blood loss in Nigerian rural adolescents
Authors: Barr Fiona , Brabin Loretta , Agbaje Shola , Buseri Fiekumo , Ikimalo John , Briggs Nimi
Published: August 2005

Objective:

Menstrual disorders are common in young women, and heavy menstrual blood losses (MBL) are an important cause of anaemia. Menstrual morbidity normally goes untreated in developing countries where cultural barriers also serve to mask the problems. We investigated the prevalence of menstrual morbidity, and measured MBL and its relationship to iron deficiency in a rural adolescent population. The rationale was to assess whether or not reducing heavy MBL could be part of a strategy to reduce iron deficiency anaemia.

Setting:

Rural village in south-east Nigeria.

Design:

Cross-sectional survey.

Subjects:

The study included all non-pregnant, unmarried nulliparous girls (< 20 years) who had menstruated, and who lived in K'Dere village.

Methods:

A field worker allocated to each girl completed a questionnaire, and supervised recovery and collection of soiled pads and ensured blood sampling. MBL was measured using the standard alkaline haematin method. Haemoglobin (Hb), serum iron, transferrin saturation and protoporphyrin levels (ZPP) were also measured.

Results:

307 girls completed MBL measurements; 11.9% refused to participate. 12.1% had menorrhagia (> 80 ml); median MBL was 33.1 ml. Menorrhagia was more frequent in girls who had menstruated for > 2 years (P= 0.048), and had longer duration of menses (P< 0.001). Iron status as measured by haematocrit, serum iron, transferrin saturation and ZPP values was inversely related to MBL. Neither height nor body mass index for age was associated with current iron status.

Conclusions:

The level of menorrhagia detected (12%) may be an ‘expected’ level for a condition which often has no underlying pathology. Heavy MBL is one of the most important factors contributing to iron deficiency anaemia. Measures are needed to alleviate menstrual disorders, and improve iron status. Oral contraceptives can be part of a strategy to reduce anaemia, particularly for adolescents at high risk of unwanted pregnancies.
The validation of physical activity instruments for measuring energy expenditure: problems and pitfalls
Authors: Rennie Kirsten L , Wareham Nicholas J
Published: August 2005

Objective:

To review and categorize the problems associated with undertaking physical activity validation studies and to construct a checklist against which any study could be compared.

Results:

The studies reviewed demonstrated problems in defining the dimension of physical activity that is of interest and in the selection of an appropriate comparison technique. Ideally this should be closely related to the true exposure of interest and assess that exposure objectively and without correlated error from the study instrument in question. In many studies inappropriate comparison methods have been chosen which do not measure the true underlying exposure and which are likely to have correlated error. The choice of study populations, the frame of reference of the exposure measurement and the use of appropriate statistical methods are also problematic areas.

Conclusions:

There is no ideal measurement instrument or validation study design that is suitable for all situations. However, the checklist in this paper provides a means whereby the appropriateness of studies already undertaken or at the planning stage can be assessed.
Control of Golgi Morphology and Function by Sed5 t-SNARE Phosphorylation
Authors: Weinberger Adina , Kamena Faustin , Kama Rachel , Spang Anne , Gerst Jeffrey E.
Published: August 2005

Previously, we demonstrated that the phosphorylation of t-SNAREs by protein kinase A (PKA) affects their ability to participate in SNARE complexes and to confer endocytosis and exocytosis in yeast. Here, we show that the presumed phosphorylation of a conserved membrane-proximal PKA consensus site (serine-317) in the Sed5 t-SNARE regulates endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-Golgi transport, as well as Golgi morphology. Sed5 is a phosphoprotein, and both alanine and aspartate substitutions in serine-317 directly affect intracellular protein trafficking. The aspartate substitution results in elaboration of the ER, defects in Golgi-ER retrograde transport, an accumulation of small transport vesicles, and the inhibition of growth of most cell types. In contrast, the alanine substitution has no deleterious effects upon transport and growth, but results in ordering of the Golgi into a structure reminiscent of mammalian apparatus. This structure seems to require the recycling of Sed5, because it was found not to occur in sec21-2 cells that are defective in retrograde transport. Thus, a cycle of Sed5 phosphorylation and dephosphorylation is required for normal t-SNARE function and may choreograph Golgi ordering and dispersal.
Mammalian Septins Regulate Microtubule Stability through Interaction with the Microtubule-binding Protein MAP4
Authors: Kremer Brandon E. , Haystead Timothy , Macara Ian G.
Published: August 2005

Mammalian septins constitute a family of at least 12 GTP-binding proteins that can form hetero-oligomers and that are sometimes found in association with actin or microtubule filaments. However, their functions are not understood. Using RNA interference, we found that suppression of septin expression in HeLa cells caused a pronounced increase in microtubule stability. Mass spectroscopic analysis of proteins coprecipitating with Sept6 identified the microtubule-associated protein MAP4 as a septin binding partner. A small, proline-rich region in the C-terminal half of MAP4 bound directly to a Sept 2:6:7 heterotrimer, and to the Sept2 monomer. The trimer blocked the ability of this MAP4 fragment to bind and bundle microtubules in vitro. In intact cells, MAP4 was required for the stabilization of microtubules induced by septin depletion. Moreover, septin depletion increased the number of cells with abnormal nuclei, and this effect was blocked by gene silencing of MAP4. These data identify a novel molecular function for septins in mammalian cells: the modulation of microtubule dynamics through interaction with MAP4.
Dual Interaction of JAM-C with JAM-B and αMβ2Integrin: Function in Junctional Complexes and Leukocyte Adhesion
Authors: Lamagna Chrystelle , Meda Paolo , Mandicourt Guillaume , Brown James , Gilbert Robert J.C. , Jones E. Yvonne , Kiefer Friedemann , Ruga Pilar , Imhof Beat A. , Aurrand-Lions Michel
Published: August 2005

The junctional adhesion molecules (JAMs) have been recently described as interendothelial junctional molecules and as integrin ligands. Here we show that JAM-B and JAM-C undergo heterophilic interaction in cell-cell contacts and that JAM-C is recruited and stabilized in junctional complexes by JAM-B. In addition, soluble JAM-B dissociates soluble JAM-C homodimers to form JAM-B/JAM-C heterodimers. This suggests that the affinity of JAM-C monomers to form dimers is higher for JAM-B than for JAM-C. Using antibodies against JAM-C, the formation of JAM-B/JAM-C heterodimers can be abolished. This liberates JAM-C from its vascular binding partner JAM-B and makes it available on the apical side of vessels for interaction with its leukocyte counterreceptor αMβ2integrin. We demonstrate that the modulation of JAM-C localization in junctional complexes is a new regulatory mechanism for αMβ2-dependent adhesion of leukocytes.
THE EFFECT OF UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS, WELFARE BENEFITS, AND OTHER INCOME ON PERSONAL BANKRUPTCY
Authors: FISHER JONATHAN D.
Published: August 2005

Personal bankruptcy, unemployment insurance, and Aid to Families with Dependent Children provide income and wealth insurance. Because they have similar purposes, it should not be surprising that some households use more than one of these programs or that the programs are substitutes. This study contributes to the personal bankruptcy literature by examining this interaction and finds that increases in unemployment benefits decrease the probability of bankruptcy. (JEL D12, K35)
A LIMIT OF BILATERAL CONTRACTING INSTITUTIONS
Authors: Van Boening Mark V. , Wilcox Nathaniel T.
Published: August 2005

Nonconvexities undermine the efficiency of the usually robust “double auction” or DA market institution. We experimentally examine two modified DAs that allow for particularly rich bilateral contracting such as arbitrarily nonlinear pricing. The first allows for arbitrarily nonlinear pricing but should not necessarily promote it; the second should promote efficient nonlinear pricing. Experiments support predictions on the emergence of nonlinear pricing, but not those concerning efficiency. Coordination problems are the culprit. We conclude that institutions capable of dealing with some nonconvexities must frequently provide multilateral contracting possibilities not permitted by DA rules and other market‐like bilateral contracting institutions. (JEL C92, D49, L19)
A NONEQUILIBRIUM ANALYSIS OF UNANIMITY RULE, MAJORITY RULE, AND PARETO
Authors: Dougherty Keith L. , Edward Julian
Published: August 2005

It is widely held that in the absence of transaction costs unanimity rule is more effective at producing Pareto improvements and Pareto optimal outcomes than majority rule. We compare unanimity rule and majority rule in their ability to adhere to the Pareto criterion and to select Pareto‐optimal alternatives using a single‐dimensional spatial voting model without rational proposals. This produces two interesting results. First, if proposals are random, then majority rule is almost always more adept at selecting Pareto‐optimal alternatives than unanimity rule. Second, if individuals propose their ideal points, then majority rule selects Pareto‐optimal outcomes at least as well as unanimity rule. These results contrast with equilibrium analyses, which typically show that unanimity rule is the best voting procedure for maintaining Pareto optimality. (JEL D7, C61)
AMBIGUITY ABOUT AUDIT PROBABILITY, TAX COMPLIANCE, AND TAXPAYER WELFARE
Authors: Snow Arthur , Warren Ronald S.
Published: August 2005

We show that an increase in uncertainty about the probability of being audited (ambiguity) increases tax compliance for ambiguity‐averse taxpayers but reduces compliance for ambiguity lovers. Because experimental evidence reveals considerable heterogeneity with respect to ambiguity preferences, we conclude that fostering uncertainty about the probability of being audited may not be an effective policy for increasing taxpayer compliance. Moreover, because the tax authority can neither categorize nor screen taxpayers on the basis of their preferences for ambiguity, it is not likely to be either a useful or a desirable instrument for increasing taxpayer welfare. (JELH26,D81)
Immunohistochemical detection of transforming growth factor‐α, epidermal growth factor, and vascular endothelial growth factor expression in hyperstimulated rat ovary
Authors: Ozcakir Hasan Tayfun , Giray Seren Gulsen , Ozbilgin Mahmut Kemal , Uyar Yýldýz , Lacin Selman , Caglar Husnu
Published: August 2005

Objective.  The aim of the present study is to figure out the immunohistochemical expression of transforming growth factor‐α (TGF‐α), epidermal growth factor (EGF), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in hyperstimulated rat ovaries.

Methods.  Twenty Wistar‐Albino adult female rats (250–300 g) were taken into the study. The animals were randomly divided into two groups, each containing 10 rats: (i) stimulation group and (ii) control group. In the stimulation group, a stimulation regimen was administered to induce follicular maturity and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) at the end using a 30‐IU follicle‐stimulating hormone that was administered subcutaneously for 4 consecutive days, followed by a 30‐IU human chorionic gonadotropin on day 5 to induce ovulation. The rats, in the control group, received 0.2 ml of 0.9% NaCl for 5 consecutive days to mimic the conditions of the study animals. At the end of the treatment period, all rats underwent ovariectomy and the sections of ovaries were stained for the TGF‐α, EGF, and VEGF.

Results.  The expression of TGF‐α, EGF, and VEGF in the endothelium, the stroma, the granulosa cells, and the corpus luteum was found to be significantly higher in the stimulated group, compared to that in the control group ( p < 0.05).

Conclusion.  TGF‐α, EGF, and VEGF are found to have increased in the hyperstimulated ovaries and this finding seems to be involved in the OHSS pathogenesis.
Impact of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy at term on infant birth weight
Authors: Lau Tze Kin , Pang Man Wah , Sahota Daljit S. , Leung Tse Ngong
Published: August 2005

This study was performed to investigate the impact of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy at term on neonatal birth weight. All singleton live births delivered between 37 and 42 weeks of gestation complicated by hypertensive disorders over a 7‐year period (n = 362) was compared to 34 783 uncomplicated singleton deliveries in the same period. The individualized gestation‐related optimal weight (GROW) was calculated for each individual case adjusted for the effects of maternal booking weight, height, parity, gestation at delivery, and fetal sex. Small‐for‐gestational‐age (SGA) was defined as a birth weight less than the 10th percentile of the GROW. The incidence of SGA babies was significantly higher in subjects with preeclampsia and eclampsia than in control subjects (24.6 versus 11.3%; odds ratio = 2.55; 95% CI: 1.84, 3.55). Preeclampsia significantly reduced fetal birth weight by 130 g or 4.3%. Those with eclampsia on average had a neonatal birth weight 349 g or 11.0% below that of the GROW. In contrast, there was no significant difference in the incidence of SGA babies or degree of deviation from GROW between those with or without gestational hypertension.
Nitric oxide increases endocervical secretion at the ovulatory phase in the female
Authors: Mörlin Birgitta , Hammarström Margareta
Published: August 2005

Background.  Uterine cervical mucus is crucial for reproduction, facilitating sperm transport and survival in certain mammals. Cholinergic autonomic nervous secretory innervation has been established, and modulation of secretion by prostaglandins and non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs has been postulated. It has been suggested that glandular nitric oxide (NO) production is a prerequisite for the autonomic cholinergic nervous modulation of cervical, endometrial, and the seminal vesicle secretion in the guinea pig. Most secretory genital tract cells, female as well as male, seem to display NO synthase activity.

Methods.  Cervical secretion at ovulation time was studied in 10 women with regular menstruation. In an in vivo model with repeated collection of mucus samples during four 60‐min periods, the amount of mucus was estimated in a control experimental series and in an experimental series following sublingual administration of the NO donor nitroglycerin.

Results.  This nitroglycerin administration markedly increased cervical secretion, while no changes in cervical secretion were seen in the control experimental series.

Conclusions.  The results suggest that glandular NO production increases cervical secretion. Thus, cervical secretion may, apart from hormonal regulation, be influenced by the autonomic nervous system, and in addition, NO may be a prerequisite for this influence. This in turn may have implications on fertilization and fertility regulation.
Prevalence, clinical spectrum and atypical symptoms of gastro‐oesophageal reflux in Argentina: a nationwide population‐based study
Authors: CHIOCCA J. C. , OLMOS J. A. , SALIS G. B. , SOIFER L. O. , HIGA R. , MARCOLONGO M. ,   THE ARGENTINEAN GASTRO‐OESOPHAGEAL REFLUX STUDY GROUP
Published: August 2005

Background:  Population‐based data on gastro‐oesophageal reflux in Latin America are lacking.

Aim:  To assess gastro‐oesophageal reflux symptom prevalence, clinical spectrum and association with the atypical symptoms in our country.

Methods:  Gastro‐oesophageal reflux self‐report questionnaires validated at Mayo Clinic, USA, were submitted to a sample of 1000 residents (aged 18–80 years) from 17 representative geographical areas of Argentina. The samples were selected and stratified according to age, gender, geographical areas and size of town of residence provided by the Argentine Bureau of Statistics and Census.

Results:  The overall prevalence of any typical gastro‐oesophageal reflux symptom experienced in the previous year was 61.2% (95% CI, 57.9–64.6), the prevalence of frequent gastro‐oesophageal reflux symptoms was 23.0% (95% CI, 20.1–25.9) and the prevalence of gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease was 11.9% (95% CI, 9.6–14.1). Frequent gastro‐oesophageal reflux symptoms were associated with dysphagia (OR 2.12, 95% CI, 1.27–3.54, P < 0.01), globus (OR 2.22, 95% CI, 1.35–3.66, P < 0.01) and non‐cardiac chest pain (OR 1.55, 95% CI, 1.04–2.31, P < 0.05).

Conclusions:  In Argentina, typical symptoms of gastro‐oesophageal reflux are highly prevalent at the national level, and frequent gastro‐oesophageal reflux symptoms are significantly associated with dysphagia, globus and non‐cardiac chest pain.
Cytomics, the human cytome project and systems biology: top‐down resolution of the molecular biocomplexity of organisms by single cell analysis
Authors: Valet G.
Published: August 2005

Abstract.  A large amount of structural and functional information is obtained by molecular cell phenotype analysis of tissues, organs and organisms at the single cell level by image or flow cytometry in combination with bioinformatic knowledge extraction (cytomics) concerning nuclei acids, proteins and metabolites (cellular genomics, proteomics and metabolomics) as well as cell function parameters like intracellular pH, transmembrane potentials or ion gradients.

In addition, differential molecular cell phenotypes between diseased and healthy cells provide molecular data patterns for (i) predictive medicine by cytomics or for (ii) drug discovery purposes using reverse engineering of the data patterns by biomedical cell systems biology. Molecular pathways can be explored in this way including the detection of suitable target molecules, without detailed a priori knowledge of specific disease mechanisms. This is useful during the analysis of complex diseases such as infections, allergies, rheumatoid diseases, diabetes or malignancies.

The top‐down approach reaching from single cell heterogeneity in cell systems and tissues down to the molecular level seems suitable for a human cytome project to systematically explore the molecular biocomplexity of human organisms. The analysis of already existing data from scientific studies or routine diagnostic procedures will be of immediate value in clinical medicine, for example as personalized therapy by cytomics.
Cytometric assessment of DNA damage in relation to cell cycle phase and apoptosis
Authors: Huang Xuan , Halicka H. Dorota , Traganos Frank , Tanaka Toshiki , Kurose Akira , Darzynkiewicz Zbigniew
Published: August 2005

Abstract.  Reviewed are the methods aimed to detect DNA damage in individual cells, estimate its extent and relate it to cell cycle phase and induction of apoptosis. They include the assays that reveal DNA fragmentation during apoptosis, as well as DNA damage induced by genotoxic agents. DNA fragmentation that occurs in the course of apoptosis is detected by selective extraction of degraded DNA. DNA in chromatin of apoptotic cells shows also increased propensity to undergo denaturation. The most common assay of DNA fragmentation relies on labelling DNA strand breaks with fluorochrome‐tagged deoxynucleotides. The induction of double‐strand DNA breaks (DSBs) by genotoxic agents provides a signal for histone H2AX phosphorylation on Ser139; the phosphorylated H2AX is named γH2AX. Also, ATM‐kinase is activated through its autophosphorylation on Ser1981. Immunocytochemical detection of γH2AX and/or ATM‐Ser1981(P) are sensitive probes to reveal induction of DSBs. When used concurrently with analysis of cellular DNA content and caspase‐3 activation, they allow one to correlate the extent of DNA damage with the cell cycle phase and with activation of the apoptotic pathway. The presented data reveal cell cycle phase‐specific patterns of H2AX phosphorylation and ATM autophosphorylation in response to induction of DSBs by ionizing radiation, topoisomerase I and II inhibitors and carcinogens. Detection of DNA damage in tumour cells during radio‐ or chemotherapy may provide an early marker predictive of response to treatment.
Production of stem cells with embryonic characteristics from human umbilical cord blood
Authors: McGuckin C. P. , Forraz N. , Baradez M.‐O. , Navran S. , Zhao J. , Urban R. , Tilton R. , Denner L.
Published: August 2005

Abstract.  When will embryonic stem cells reach the clinic? The answer is simple – not soon! To produce large quantities of homogeneous tissue for transplantation, without feeder layers, and with the appropriate recipient's immunological phenotype, is a significant scientific hindrance, although adult stem (ADS) cells provide an alternative, more ethically acceptable, source. The annual global 100 million human birth rate proposes umbilical cord blood (UCB) as the largest untouched stem cell source, with advantages of naive immune status and relatively unshortened telomere length. Here, we report the world's first reproducible production of cells expressing embryonic stem cell markers, – cord‐blood‐derived embryonic‐like stem cells (CBEs). UCB, after elective birth by Caesarean section, has been separated by sequential immunomagnetic removal of nucleate granulocytes, erythrocytes and haemopoietic myeloid/lymphoid progenitors. After 7 days of high density culture in microflasks, (105 cells/ml, IMDM, FCS 10%, thrombopoietin 10 ng/ml, flt3‐ligand 50 ng/ml, c‐kit ligand 20 ng/ml). CBE colonies formed adherent to the substrata; these were maintained for 6 weeks, then were subcultured and continued for a minimum 13 weeks. CBEs were positive for TRA‐1‐60, TRA‐1‐81, SSEA‐4, SSEA‐3 and Oct‐4, but not SSEA‐1, indicative of restriction in the human stem cell compartment. The CBEs were also microgravity–bioreactor cultured with hepatocyte growth medium (IMDM, FCS 10%, HGF 20 ng/ml, bFGF 10 ng/ml, EGF 10 ng/ml, c‐kit ligand 10 ng/ml). After 4 weeks the cells were found to express characteristic hepatic markers, cytokeratin‐18, α‐foetoprotein and albumin. Thus, such CBEs are a viable human alternative from embryonic stem cells for stem cell research, without ethical constraint and with potential for clinical applications.
Psychological functioning in African American women at an increased risk of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer
Authors: Halbert CH , Kessler L , Collier A , Paul Wileyto E , Brewster K , Weathers B
Published: August 2005

Despite attention to psychological issues during genetic counselling and testing for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer risk, limited information is available on cancer‐specific distress among African American women being targeted for participation in counselling and testing. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to examine cancer‐specific distress in African American women at an increased risk of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer and to identify factors having significant associations with distress in this population. Respondents were 141 African American women identified for participation in genetic counselling and testing for BRCA1/2 mutations. Overall, respondents reported moderate levels of cancer‐specific distress. Younger age (coefficient = 6.0, p = 0.001), being unemployed (coefficient = −5.0, p = 0.01), and having a personal history of cancer (coefficient = 5.0, p = 0.02) had significant associations with intrusion. Younger age was also associated significantly with greater avoidance (r = 6.0, p = 0.02). These results suggest that African American women aged 50 and younger, those who are unemployed and women with a personal history of breast or ovarian cancer may be the most vulnerable to experiencing elevated levels of distress during genetic counselling and testing. Greater attention to psychological issues, including concerns about cancer and cancer risks, may be needed during genetic counselling and testing for BRCA1/2 mutations with these women.
Sir Archibald Garrod and Alkaptonuria –‘story of metabolic genetics’
Authors: Prasad C , Galbraith PA
Published: August 2005

Clinical disorders have intrigued the human mind for thousands of years. Many are enshrined in history as ‘medical curiosities’. This report is a tribute to one of the greatest minds of modern genetics and medicine, Sir Archibald Edward Garrod (1857–1936), who brought forward the scientific study of inborn errors of metabolism. Garrod's concept of ‘chemical individuality’ with no awareness of ‘genes’ more than 100 years ago is an amazing example of futuristic thinking. His own words reflect this, ‘Owing, as I believe, to their chemical individuality different human beings differ widely in their liability to individual maladies, and to some extent in the signs and symptoms which they exhibit’. The concept of chemical individuality is here to stay. Garrod has also provided insight into a number of scientific concepts and modern thinking.
Identification of 25 new mutations in 40 unrelated Spanish Niemann‐Pick type C patients: genotype‐phenotype correlations
Authors: Fernandez‐Valero EM , Ballart A , Iturriaga C , Lluch M , Macias J , Vanier MT , Pineda M , Coll MJ
Published: August 2005

To better characterize Niemann‐Pick type C (NPC) in Spain and improve genetic counselling, molecular analyses were carried out in 40 unrelated Spanish patients. The search identified 70/80 alleles (88%) involving 38 different NPC1 mutations, 26 of which are described for the first time. No patient with NPC2 mutations was identified. The novel NPC1 mutations include 14 amino acid substitutions [R372W (c.1114C > T), P434L (c.1301C > T), C479Y (c.1436G > A), K576R (c.1727G > A), V727F (c.2179G > T), M754K (c.2261T > A), S865L (c.2594C > T), A926T (c.2776G > A), D948H (c.2842G > C), V959E (c.2876T > A), T1036K (c.3107C > A), T1066N (c.3197C > A), N1156I (c.3467A > T) and F1224L (c.3672C > G)], four stop codon [W260X (c.780G > A), S425X (c.1274C > A), C645X (c.1935T > A) and R1059X (c.3175C > T)], two donor splice‐site mutations [IVS7+1G > A (g.31432G > A) and IVS21+2insG (g.51871insG)], one in‐frame mutation [N961_F966delinsS (c.2882del16bpins1bp)] and five frameshift mutations [V299fsX8 (c.895insT), A558fsX11 (c.1673insG), C778fsX10 (c.2334insT), G993fsX3 (c.2973_78delG) and F1221fsX20 (c.3662delT)]. We also identified three novel changes [V562V (c.1686G > A), A580A (c.1740C > G) and A1187A (c.3561G > T)] in three independent NPC patients and five polymorphisms that have been described previously. The combination of these polymorphisms gave rise to the establishment of different haplotypes. Linkage disequilibrium was detected between mutations C177Y and G993fsX3 and specific haplotypes, suggesting a unique origin for these mutations. In contrast, I1061T mutation showed at least two different origins. The most prevalent mutations in Spanish patients were I1061T, Q775P, C177Y and P1007A (10, 7, 7 and 5% of alleles, respectively). Our data in homozygous patients indicate that the Q775P mutation correlates with a severe infantile neurological form and the C177Y mutation with a late infantile clinical phenotype.
An exploratory comparison of genetic counselling protocols for HNPCC predictive testing
Authors: Brain K , Sivell S , Bennert K , Howell L , France L , Jordan S , Rogers MT , Gray J , Sampson J
Published: August 2005

Most UK genetics centres offering predictive testing for hereditary non‐polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) use an extended counselling protocol originally developed for Huntington's disease. Shortened counselling may be more appropriate in the context of treatable genetic conditions such as HNPCC. Twenty‐six high‐risk individuals were randomized to extended genetic counselling (two sessions of education and reflection held 1 month apart) or shortened genetic counselling (a single educational session) prior to HNPCC testing. Prospective questionnaires, interviews and transcripts of counselling sessions were analysed. Participants were unsure what to expect prior to genetic counselling and had already decided to undergo genetic testing. There was no evidence of psychological harm caused by shortened genetic counselling, with a high level of satisfaction with the counselling received in both groups. Reflective counselling occurred in both groups but was framed in terms of practical action and information. Participants expressed differing preferences for the level of information received. This exploratory study indicates that shortened genetic counselling may be an appropriate means of supporting decisions already made by individuals about HNPCC testing. However, participants would benefit from preparatory information to help them reflect on issues not previously considered, which can then be explored more fully as part of a tailored counselling approach.
Association of repeat polymorphisms in the estrogen receptors α, β, and androgen receptor genes with knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Fytili P , Giannatou E , Papanikolaou V , Stripeli F , Karachalios Th , Malizos K , Tsezou A
Published: August 2005

Genetic factors have been shown to play an important role in the etiology of osteoarthritis (OA). To elucidate the possible role of genetic variation in the estrogen receptors α and β (ER‐α, ER‐β) and androgen receptor (AR) genes with knee OA, the ‐1174(TA)n, c.1092+3607(CA)n, and c.172(CAG)n repeat polymorphisms of ER‐α, ER‐β, and AR genes were studied. A case–control cohort of 158 patients with idiopathic knee OA and 193 controls were used. A significant difference was observed in the frequency distribution of ‐1174(TA)9−25 and c.1092+3607(CA)13−27 repeat polymorphisms of the ER‐α and ER‐β genes between OA patients and controls (p < 0.005 and p < 0.0001, respectively). A significantly increased odds ratio (OR) for knee OA was observed in individuals having long alleles (LL) genotype for ER‐α gene and LL and one short and one long allele (SL) genotypes for ER‐β gene compared to individuals with the short alleles (SS) genotype (95% CI 1.03–3.5; p = 0.04 and CI 2.4–8.3 and 2.5–7.5; p < 0.001, respectively). When ORs were adjusted for various risk factors, it was observed that women with LL genotypes for ER‐β and AR genes showed significantly increased risk for OA development (p = 0.002 and 0.001). An association between c.1092+3607(CA)13−27 and c.172(CAG)8−34 repeat polymorphisms of the ER‐β and AR genes and knee OA was found in individuals of Greek descent.
Infantile hepatic dysfunction improved by elimination of cows’ milk formulas
Authors: Saito Megumu , Obi Makiko , Kimura Mitsuaki
Published: August 2005

We present three infants who showed hypertransaminasemia without extrahepatic symptoms, which improved by eliminating cows’ milk formulas. The levels of milk protein‐specific lymphocyte proliferation were elevated in all three patients. These cases indicate the importance of food allergy in the diagnosis of infantile hepatic dysfunction.