bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The first trimester human trophoblast cell line ACH-3P: A novel tool to study autocrine/paracrine regulatory loops of human trophoblast subpopulations – TNF-α stimulates MMP15 expression
Authors: Hiden Ursula , Wadsack Christian , Prutsch Nicole , Gauster Martin , Weiss Ursula , Frank Hans-Georg , Schmitz Ulrike , Fast-Hirsch Christa , Hengstschläger Markus , Pötgens Andy , Rüben Angela , Knöfler Martin , Haslinger Peter , Huppertz Berthold , Bilban Martin , Kaufmann Peter , Desoye Gernot 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Background
The trophoblast compartment of the placenta comprises various subpopulations with distinct functions. They interact among each other by secreted signals thus forming autocrine or paracrine regulatory loops. We established a first trimester trophoblast cell line (ACH-3P) by fusion of primary human first trimester trophoblasts (week 12 of gestation) with a human choriocarcinoma cell line (AC1-1).

Results
Expression of trophoblast markers (cytokeratin-7, integrins, matrix metalloproteinases), invasion abilities and transcriptome of ACH-3P closely resembled primary trophoblasts. Morphology, cytogenetics and doubling time was similar to the parental AC1-1 cells. The different subpopulations of trophoblasts e.g., villous and extravillous trophoblasts also exist in ACH-3P cells and can be immuno-separated by HLA-G surface expression. HLA-G positive ACH-3P display pseudopodia and a stronger expression of extravillous trophoblast markers. Higher expression of insulin-like growth factor II receptor and human chorionic gonadotropin represents the basis for the known autocrine stimulation of extravillous trophoblasts.

Conclusion
We conclude that ACH-3P represent a tool to investigate interaction of syngeneic trophoblast subpopulations. These cells are particularly suited for studies into autocrine and paracrine regulation of various aspects of trophoblast function. As an example a novel effect of TNF-α on matrix metalloproteinase 15 in HLA-G positive ACH-3P and explants was found.
Identification of a novel conserved mixed-isoform B56 regulatory subunit and spatiotemporal regulation of protein phosphatase 2A during Xenopus laevisdevelopment
Authors: Baek Sungmin , Seeling Joni M 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Background
Wnt signaling is a key regulator of development and tumorigenesis. Protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A), which consists of a catalytic C, a structural A, and a regulatory B subunit, plays diverse roles in Wnt signaling through its B56 subunits. B56 is a multigene family encoding for proteins with a conserved core domain and divergent amino- and carboxy-termini. Ectopic B56α and B56γ reduce β-catenin abundance and B56α reduces Wnt-dependent transcription, suggesting that B56α and B56γ inhibit Wnt signaling. In contrast, B56ε is required for Wnt signaling. Knowledge of where and when B56 subunits are expressed during Xenopus development will aid in our understanding of their roles in Wnt signaling.

Results
We have undertaken expression analyses of B56α and B56γ in Xenopus laevis. We cloned Xenopus B56α; it is 88% identical to human B56α. Xenopus B56γ is 94% identical with human B56γ, however, a novel evolutionarily conserved mixed-isoform transcript was identified that contains a B56δ-like amino-terminal domain and a B56γ core domain. The B56δ-like variable domain exon is located upstream of the B56γ variable domain exon at the human B56γ locus, suggesting that the mixed-isoform transcript is due to alternative splicing. B56γ transcripts with different 3' ends were identified that lack or possess a 35 base pair sequence, resulting in either a transcript similar to human B56γ1, or an uncharacterized evolutionarily conserved sequence. Real time RT-PCR analyses revealed that B56α is expressed at moderate levels before the midblastula transition (MBT), at reduced levels during gastrulation and neurulation, and at high levels during organogenesis, while B56γ is expressed at low levels until organogenesis. B56α is enriched in the ventral hemisphere pre-MBT, while B56γ is ventrally enriched post-MBT. Aα, Aβ, Cα and Cβ are expressed in early Xenopus development, suggesting the presence of a functional heterotrimer.

Conclusion
Our data suggest that B56 functional diversity is achieved in part through the synthesis of a novel mixed-isoform B56δ/γ transcript. Our data also suggest that B56α functions pre-MBT, inhibiting Wnt signaling on the ventral side of the embryo, and again during organogenesis, while B56γ functions primarily post-MBT.
Evidence for the Tonic Inhibition of Spinal Pain by Nicotinic Cholinergic Transmission through Primary Afferents
Authors: Matsumoto Misaki , Xie Weijiao , Inoue Makoto , Ueda Hiroshi 
Published: December 2007

Background:We have proposed that nerve injury-specific loss of spinal tonic cholinergic inhibition may play a role in the analgesic effects of nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) agonists on neuropathic pain. However, the tonic cholinergic inhibition of pain remains to be well characterized.Results:Here, we show that choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) signals were localized not only in outer dorsal horn fibers (lamina I–III) and motor neurons in the spinal cord, but also in the vast majority of neurons in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG). When mice were treated with an antisense oligodeoxynucleotide (AS-ODN) against ChAT, which decreased ChAT signals in the dorsal horn and DRG, but not in motor neurons, they showed a significant decrease in nociceptive thresholds in paw pressure and thermal paw withdrawal tests. Furthermore, in a novel electrical stimulation-induced paw withdrawal (EPW) test, the thresholds for stimulation through C-, Aδ- and Aβ-fibers were all decreased by AS-ODN-pretreatments. The administration of nicotine (10 nmol i.t.) induced a recovery of the nociceptive thresholds, decreased by the AS-ODN, in the mechanical, thermal and EPW tests. However, nicotine had no effects in control mice or treated with a mismatch scramble (MS)-ODN in all of these nociception tests.Conclusion:These findings suggest that primary afferent cholinergic neurons produce tonic inhibition of spinal pain through nAChR activation, and that intrathecal administration of nicotine rescues the loss of tonic cholinergic inhibition.
Multi-modal-analgesia for pain management after Hallux Valgus surgery: a prospective randomised study on the effect of ankle block
Authors: Turan Ibrahim , Assareh Hamid , Rolf Christer , Jakobsson Jan 
Published: December 2007

AbstractBackgroundPain and emesis are the two major complaints after day case surgery. Local anaesthesia has become an important part of optimizing intra and post-operative pain treatment, but is sometimes not entirely sufficient. The aim of the present study was to study the effect of adding an ankle block to a multi-modal analgesic approach on the first 24-hour-need for rescue analgesia in patients undergoing elective Hallux Valgus surgery.Type of studyProspective, randomized patient-blind study comparing ankle block with levo-bupivacaine, lidocaine and Saline placebo control.MethodsNinety patients were studied comparing ankle block (15 cc) using levo-bupivacaine 2.5 mg/ml, lidocaine 10 mg/ml or placebo (saline) on day-case elective Hallux Valgus surgery, supported by general anaesthesia in all cases. Primary study endpoint was number of patient's requiring oral analgesics during the first 24 post-operative hours.ResultsAnkle block had no effect on need for rescue analgesia and pain ratings during the 1st24 postoperative hours, there was no difference seen between placebo and any of the two active local anaesthesia studied. The only differences seen was that both lidocaine and levo-bupivacaine reduced the intra-operative need for anaesthetic (sevoflurane) and that levo-bupivacaine patients had a lower need as compared to the lidocaine patients for oral analgesics during the afternoon of surgery.ConclusionAdding a single shot ankle block to a multi-modal pain management strategy reduces the need for intra-operative anaesthesia but has no major impact of need of rescue analgesics or pain during the first 24-hour after surgery.
Effects of Calcium and Vitamin D Supplementation on Hip Bone Mineral Density and Calcium-Related Analytes in Elderly Ambulatory Australian Women: A Five-Year Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Zhu Kun , Devine Amanda , Dick Ian M. , Wilson Scott G. , Prince Richard L. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Context: Effects of long-term calcium, with or without vitamin D, on hip bone mineral density (BMD) and bone turnover in sunny climates have not been reported.
Objective: The aim was to evaluate the effect of vitamin D added to calcium supplementation on hip dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry BMD and calcium-related analytes.
Design, Setting, and Participants: The study was a 5-yr randomized, controlled, double-blind trial of 120 community-dwelling women aged 70–80 yr.
Interventions: The interventions were 1200 mg/d calcium with placebo vitamin D (Ca group) or with 1000 IU/d vitamin D2 (CaD group), or double placebo (control).
Main Outcome Measures: Hip BMD, plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D, biomarkers of bone turnover, PTH, and intestinal calcium absorption were measured.
Results: Hip BMD was preserved in CaD (−0.17%) and Ca (0.19%) groups but not controls (−1.27%) at yr 1 and maintained in the CaD group only at yr 3 and 5. The beneficial effects were mainly in those with baseline 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels below the median (68 nmol/liter). At yr 1, compared with controls, the Ca and CaD groups had 6.8 and 11.3% lower plasma alkaline phosphatase, respectively (P ≤ 0.02), and 28.7 and 34.5% lower urinary deoxypyridinoline to creatinine ratio, respectively (P ≤ 0.05). At 5 yr, this suppression was maintained only in the CaD group. CaD reduced PTH at 3 and 5 yr cf. controls (27.8 and 31.3%, P ≤ 0.005) in those with baseline PTH levels above the median (3.6 pmol/liter). Therapy did not affect intestinal calcium absorption at high carrier loads.
Conclusions: Addition of vitamin D to calcium has long-term beneficial effects on bone density in elderly women living in a sunny climate, probably mediated by a long-term reduction in bone turnover rate.
Core–Satellite Heterostruture of Fe3O4–Pd Nanocomposite: Selective and Magnetically Recyclable Catalyst for Decarboxylative Coupling Reaction in Aqueous Media
Authors: Yeo Kyung Min , Lee Sang Ick , Lee Young Tak , Chung Young Keun , Lee In Su 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Fe3O4–Pd nanocomposite having core–satellite heterostructure, prepared through the reaction of Pluronic polymer (P123, PEO19–PPO69–PEO19)-coated Fe3O4 nanoparticle and Na2PdCl4, showed high catalytic activity, selectivity, and reusability for decarboxylative coupling reactions in aqueous media.
Lipoprotein(a) and Cardiovascular Disease in Ethnic Chinese: The Chin-Shan Community Cardiovascular Cohort Study
Authors: Chien Kuo-Liong , Hsu Hsiu-Ching , Su Ta-Chen , Sung Fung-Chang , Chen Ming-Fong , Lee Yuan-Teh 
Published: December 2007

AbstractBackground: Little is known about lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] as a predictor of vascular events among ethnic Chinese. We prospectively investigated the association of Lp(a) with cardiovascular disease and all-cause death in a community-based cohort.Methods: We conducted a community-based prospective cohort study of 3484 participants (53% women; age range, 35–97 years) who had complete lipid measurements and were free of a cardiovascular disease history at the time of recruitment. Over a median follow-up of 13.8-years, we documented 210 cases of stroke, 122 cases of coronary heart disease (CHD), and 781 deaths.Results: The incidences for each event increased appreciably with Lp(a) quartile for stroke and all-cause death, but not for CHD. Baseline Lp(a) concentration by quartile was not significantly associated with stroke, all-cause death, and CHD in multivariate analyses. The multivariate relative risk was significant for stroke at the 90th and 95th percentiles and for total death at the 95th and 99th percentiles.Conclusions: Our findings suggest a threshold relationship with little gradient of risk across lower Lp(a) values for stroke and all-cause death in Chinese adults.
Influence of Pancreatic Status and Sex on Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Profiles in Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Coste Thierry Charles , Deumer Gladys , Reychler Gregory , Lebecque Patrick , Wallemacq Pierre , Leal Teresinha 
Published: December 2007

AbstractBackground: Some but not all studies have reported abnormal polyunsaturated fatty acid composition in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients. We investigated the influence of pancreatic status and sex on the fatty acid profile in plasma and erythrocyte membranes in patients with CF.Methods: After a 1-step transesterification with acetyl chloride on plasma and washed erythrocyte membranes, we quantified fatty acid methyl esters by use of GC-MS in 124 CF patients and 80 age-matched healthy controls. In the CF group, mean (SD) age was 17.5 (11.3) years, and 51.6% were male. Pancreatic insufficiency was diagnosed in 78% of the CF population.Results: A decrease in docosahexaenoic acid concentrations was observed in CF patients independently of pancreatic status. Pancreatic insufficient CF patients displayed lower concentrations of linoleic acid and arachidonic acid and higher concentrations of dihomo-γ-linolenic acid and eicosatrienoic acid (mead acid) in plasma and erythrocyte membranes compared with healthy controls and pancreatic sufficient CF patients. Male CF patients had significantly lower docosahexaenoic acid and higher eicosatrienoic acid in plasma and erythrocyte membranes compared with female CF patients.Conclusions: These results support the concept that multiple abnormalities of polyunsaturated fatty acid composition participate in the CF disease phenotype and that pancreatic status plays a major role in such abnormalities. Moreover, patient sex influences the polyunsaturated fatty acid spectrum in CF, with more marked abnormalities in males.
Two-Dimensional Gas Chromatography/Electron-Impact Mass Spectrometry with Cryofocusing for Simultaneous Quantification of MDMA, MDA, HMMA, HMA, and MDEA in Human Plasma
Authors: Kolbrich Erin A , Lowe Ross H , Huestis Marilyn A 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Background: 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, or Ecstasy) is a popular recreational drug. Analysis of MDMA and metabolites in human plasma, particularly in pharmacokinetic studies, requires low limits of quantification. Two-dimensional GC/MS with cryofocusing is a chromatographic technique recognized for its increased selectivity and resolution.
Methods: This method simultaneously quantifies 3,4-methylenedioxyethylamphetamine (MDEA), MDMA, and its metabolites, 3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA), 4-hydroxy-3-methoxymethamphetamine (HMMA), and 4-hydroxy-3-methoxyamphetamine (HMA) in human plasma. With hydrochloric acid, we hydrolyzed 1 mL plasma, fortified with internal standard. Analytes were subjected to solid-phase extraction, derivatized with heptafluorobutyric acid anhydride, and quantified using cryofocused 2-dimensional GC/MS operated in electron-impact selected ion-monitoring mode.
Results: Limits of quantification were 1.0 μg/L for MDA and 2.5 μg/L for MDEA, MDMA, HMMA, and HMA. Calibration curves were linear to 100 μg/L for MDA and HMA and to 400 μg/L for MDEA, MDMA, and HMMA, with r2 &gt; 0.997. At 3 concentrations spanning the linear dynamic range of the assay, mean overall extraction efficiencies from plasma were ≥85% for all compounds of interest. Recoveries were 85.6% to 107.2% of target, and intra- and interassay imprecision (CV) was &lt;8.5% for all drugs at 3 concentrations within the range of the assay. None of the 66 exogenous compounds tested interfered with analyte quantification.
Conclusions: This GC/MS assay provides low limits of quantification for simultaneous determination of MDEA, MDMA, and metabolites MDA, HMMA, and HMA in human plasma. The 2D chromatographic system should be suitable for application to other analytes and to other complex matrices.
Plant Breeding in Times of Change
Authors: Bernardo Rex , Bohn Martin O. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACTThis supplement to Crop Science includes 22 of the 28 papers presented during the 2006 International Plant Breeding Symposium, held on 21–26 August 2006 in Mexico City (One of the 28 papers has been previously published in Crop Science [Löffler et al. (2005), Crop Sci. 45:1708–1716]). The symposium served as a global forum for current plant breeding research in major row‐crop species and honored Professor John W. Dudley of the University of Illinois for his 49 years of research, teaching, and service in plant breeding and genetics. A total of 356 scientists and students from 60 different countries participated in the symposium. Participation by many scientists from developing countries was made possible by generous financial support primarily from CIMMYT, Generation Challenge Program, HarvestPlus, Iowa State University, Monsanto, Pioneer Hi‐Bred, Renessen, Syngenta Seeds, USDA, and the University of Illinois.
Assessment of the National Plant Breeding and Associated Biotechnology Capacity Around the World
Authors: Guimarães Elcio P. , Kueneman Eric , Paganini Michela 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACTDeveloping countries rely on agriculture and in particular on plant breeding for economic growth, poverty alleviation, and income generation. Therefore, knowledge of countries' capacity to develop improved cultivars is essential. The objective of this article is to present and discuss the results of the national plant breeding and associated biotechnology assessment performed worldwide by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), and to propose actions to strengthen national capacity in the use of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture (PGRFA). Data were collected on countries' capacity to carry out plant breeding activities, including the application of biotechnology tools, through a questionnaire submitted to each institution involved in the sector. Data gathered through the questionnaire are checked for quality and completeness and analyzed at country and regional levels. Results reveal variable numbers and trends: the number of plant breeders and biotechnologists and the trends vary among countries and regions without a global upward or downward tendency; the capacity to use biotechnology tools varies but the lack of linkages with applied plant breeding is a major issue; allocations vary from crop to crop and from region to region; and even within a given region there is not necessarily coincidence in priority crops regarding the allocation of resources. To extend awareness coming out of these surveys, and to further discuss and design appropriate strategies to strengthen capacity to use PGRFA, national and regional workshops were held. The main issues stressed in these events were capacity building must have the highest priority, followed by access to PGRFA, access to biotechnology tools, and awareness of plant breeding characteristics and their impact. The Global Partnership Initiative for Plant Breeding Capacity Building (GIPB) was recently launched to further support countries in strengthening their competence through promoting capacity building.
Bridging Genomics and Genetic Diversity: Linkage Disequilibrium Structure and Association Mapping in Maize and Other Cereals
Authors: Veyrieras Jean‐Baptiste , Camus‐Kulandaivelu Letizia , Gouesnard Brigitte , Manicacci Domenica , Charcosset Alain 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACTLinkage disequilibrium (LD) and association mapping is receiving considerable attention in the plant genetics community for its potential to use existing genetic resources collections to fine map quantitative trait loci (QTL), validate candidate genes, and identify alleles of interest. Based on investigations in maize (Zea mays L.) either published or recently conducted in our group, we discuss three elements of particular importance for conducting association mapping or interpreting the results: (i) the analysis of population structure into subgroups, (ii) its use to control for spurious associations and consequences in the specific case of differential selection among subgroups, and (iii) the analysis of the local structure of LD into haplotypes and its consequences on the resolution and the application of LD mapping. Consequences and perspectives for plant breeding are briefly discussed.
Insights and Innovations from Wide Crosses: Examples from Canola and Tomato
Authors: Osborn Thomas C. , Kramer Chad , Graham Elaine , Braun Carl J. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACTWild relatives and unadapted forms of crop plants are important reservoirs of allelic variation that can be accessed through wide crosses for improvement of crop plants. In this paper, we describe insights and innovations from the use of wide crosses to transfer favorable alleles from wild or unadapted forms of two crops: canola (oilseed Brassica napus L.) and tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.). The canola research involves the use of unadapted forms (winter types and resynthesized B. napus) in wide crosses to spring‐seeded types to increase seed yield of hybrids. The tomato research involves the use of wild tomato relatives to improve several traits, including disease resistance and fruit quality. These two crop plants provide a broad range of insights and innovations that have been gained from wide crosses in plant breeding research, including the impact of chromosomal rearrangements on allelic variation among unadapted forms of B. napus, and innovations that can be achieved from stacking elite alleles in tomato. The examples presented in this paper highlight the value of using DNA markers for understanding and applying the results of wide crosses.
Molecular Breeding to Enhance Ethanol Production from Corn and Sorghum Stover
Authors: Vermerris Wilfred , Saballos Ana , Ejeta Gebisa , Mosier Nathan S. , Ladisch Michael R. , Carpita Nicholas C. 
Published: December 2007

ABSTRACTPolitical and environmental concerns have resulted in a growing interest in renewable energy, especially transportation fuels. In the United States the majority of fuel ethanol is currently produced from corn (Zea mays L.) starch, but grain supplies will be insufficient to meet anticipated demands. Enzymatic hydrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass such as corn and sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] stover can provide an abundant alternative source of fermentable sugars. While production of cellulosic ethanol from stover is feasible from an energy‐balance perspective, its production is currently not economically competitive. Along with improvements in bioprocessing, enhancing the yield and composition of the biomass has the potential to make ethanol production considerably more cost effective. This requires (i) a better understanding of how cell wall composition and structure affect the efficiency of enzymatic hydrolysis, (ii) the development of traits that enhance biomass conversion efficiency and increase biomass yield, and (iii) the development of rapid screening protocols to evaluate biomass conversion efficiency. Several genetic resources are available to improve maize and sorghum as sources of lignocellulosic biomass. This includes the use of existing mutants, forward and reverse genetics to obtain novel mutants, and transgenic approaches in which the expression of genes of interest is modified. Plant breeding can be implemented to improve biomass yield, biomass quality, and biomass conversion efficiency, either through selection among progeny obtained by crossing parents with desirable traits, or as a way to enhance the agronomic performance of promising mutants and transgenics. Examples from current research will be used to illustrate progress in these different areas.