bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
How well do blood folate concentrations predict dietary folate intakes in a sample of Canadian lactating women exposed to high levels of folate? An observational study
Authors: Houghton Lisa A , Sherwood Kelly L , O'Connor Deborah L 
Published: October 2007

AbstractBackgroundIn 1998, mandatory folic acid fortification of white flour and select cereal grain products was implemented in Canada with the intention to increase dietary folate intakes of reproducing women. Folic acid fortification has produced a dramatic increase in blood folate concentrations among reproductive age women, and a reduction in neural tube defect (NTD)-affected pregnancies. In response to improved blood folate concentrations, many health care professionals are asking whether a folic acid supplement is necessary for NTD prevention among women with high blood folate values, and how reliably high RBC folate concentrations predict folate intakes shown in randomized controlled trials to be protective against NTDs. The objective of this study was to determine how predictive blood folate concentrations and folate intakes are of each other in a sample of well-educated lactating Canadian women exposed to high levels of synthetic folate.MethodsThe relationship between blood folate concentrations and dietary folate intakes, determined by weighed food records, were assessed in a sample of predominantly university-educated lactating women (32 ± 4 yr) at 4-(n = 53) and 16-wk postpartum (n = 55).ResultsMedian blood folate concentrations of all participants were well above plasma and RBC folate cut-off levels indicative of deficiency (6.7 and 317 nmol/L, respectively) and all, except for 2 subjects, were above the cut-off for NTD-risk reduction (>906 nmol/L). Only modest associations existed between total folate intakes and plasma (r = 0.46,P< 0.001) and RBC (r = 0.36,P< 0.01) folate concentrations at 16-wk postpartum. Plasma and RBC folate values at 16-wk postpartum correctly identified the quartile of folate intake of only 26 of 55 (47%) and 18 of 55 (33%) of subjects, respectively. The mean RBC folate concentration of women consuming 151–410 μg/d of synthetic folate (2ndquartile of intake) did not differ from that of women consuming >410 μg/d (3rdand 4thquartile).ConclusionFolate intakes, estimated by food composition tables, and blood folate concentrations are not predictive of each other in Canadian lactating women exposed to high levels of folate. Synthetic intakes > 151–410 μg/d in these women produced little additional benefit in terms of maximizing RBC content. More studies are needed to examine the relationship between blood folate concentration and NTD risk. Until data from such studies are available, women planning a pregnancy should continue to consume a daily folic acid supplement of 400 μg.
Effect of a weight loss intervention on anthropometric measures and metabolic risk factors in pre- versus postmenopausal women
Authors: Deibert Peter , König Daniel , Vitolins Mara Z , Landmann Ulrike , Frey Ingrid , Zahradnik Hans-Peter , Berg Aloys 
Published: October 2007

Abstract

Background
The present study examines changes in body weight, fat mass, metabolic and hormonal parameters in overweight and obese pre- and postmenopausal women who participated in a weight loss intervention.

Methods
Seventy-two subjects were included in the analysis of this single arm study (premenopausal: 22 women, age 43.7 ± 6.4 years, BMI 31.0 ± 2.4 kg/m2; postmenopausal: 50 women, age 58.2 ± 5.1 years, BMI 32.9 ± 3.7 kg/m2). Weight reduction was achieved by the use of a meal replacement and fat-reduced diet. In addition, from week 6 to 24 participants attended a guided exercise program. Body composition was analyzed with the Bod Pod®. Blood pressures were taken at every visit and blood was collected at baseline and closeout of the study to evaluate lipids, insulin, cortisol and leptin levels.

Results
BMI, fat mass, waist circumference, systolic blood pressure, triglycerides, glucose, leptin and cortisol were higher in the postmenopausal women at baseline.
Both groups achieved a substantial and comparable weight loss (pre- vs. postmenopausal: 6.7 ± 4.9 vs 6.7 ± 4.4 kg; n.s.). However, in contrast to premenopausal women, weight loss in postmenopausal women was exclusively due to a reduction of fat mass (-5.3 ± 5.1 vs -6.6 ± 4.1 kg; p < 0.01). In premenopausal women 21% of weight loss was attributed to a reduction in lean body mass.
Blood pressure, triglycerides, HDL-cholesterol, and glucose improved significantly only in postmenopausal women whereas total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol were lowered significantly in both groups.

Conclusion
Both groups showed comparable weight loss and in postmenopausal women weight loss was associated with a pronounced improvement in metabolic risk factors thereby reducing the prevalence of metabolic syndrome.
Enhancing the anti-angiogenic action of histone deacetylase inhibitors
Authors: Kuljaca Selena , Liu Tao , Tee Andrew EL , Haber Michelle , Norris Murray D , Dwarte Tanya , Marshall Glenn M 
Published: October 2007

AbstractBackgroundHistone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACIs) have many effects on cancer cells, such as growth inhibition, induction of cell death, differentiation, and anti-angiogenesis, all with a wide therapeutic index. However, clinical trials demonstrate that HDACIs are more likely to be effective when used in combination with other anticancer agents. Moreover, the molecular basis for the anti-cancer action of HDACIs is still unknown. In this study, we compared different combinations of HDACIs and anti-cancer agents with anti-angiogenic effects, and analysed their mechanism of action.ResultsTrichostatin A (TSA) and α-interferon (IFNα) were the most effective combination across a range of different cancer cell lines, while normal non-malignant cells did not respond in the same manner to the combination therapy. There was a close correlation between absence of basal p21WAF1expression and response to TSA and IFNα treatment. Moreover, inhibition of p21WAF1expression in a p21WAF1-expressing breast cancer cell line by a specific siRNA increased the cytotoxic effects of TSA and IFNα.In vitroassays of endothelial cell function showed that TSA and IFNα decreased endothelial cell migration, invasion, and capillary tubule formation, without affecting endothelial cell viability. TSA and IFNα co-operatively inhibited gene expression of some pro-angiogenic factors: vascular endothelial growth factor, hypoxia-inducible factor 1α and matrix metalloproteinase 9, in neuroblastoma cells under hypoxic conditions. Combination TSA and IFNα therapy markedly reduced tumour angiogenesis in neuroblastoma-bearing transgenic mice.ConclusionOur results indicate that combination TSA and IFNα therapy has potent co-operative cytotoxic and anti-angiogenic activity. High basal p21WAF1expression appears to be acting as a resistance factor to the combination therapy.
Dopamine receptor repertoire of human granulosa cells
Authors: Rey-Ares Veronica , Lazarov Nikolai , Berg Dieter , Berg Ulrike , Kunz Lars , Mayerhofer Artur 
Published: October 2007

Abstract

Background
High levels of dopamine (DA) were described in human ovary and recently evidence for DA receptors in granulosa and luteal cells has been provided, as well. However, neither the full repertoire of ovarian receptors for DA, nor their specific role, is established. Human granulosa cells (GCs) derived from women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) are an adequate model for endocrine cells of the follicle and the corpus luteum and were therefore employed in an attempt to decipher their DA receptor repertoire and functionality.

Methods
Cells were obtained from patients undergoing IVF and examined using cDNA-array, RT-PCR, Western blotting and immunocytochemistry. In addition, calcium measurements (with FLUO-4) were employed. Expression of two DA receptors was also examined by in-situ hybridization in rat ovary. Effects of DA on cell viability and cell volume were studied by using an ATP assay and an electronic cell counter system.

Results
We found members of the two DA receptor families (D1- and D2 -like) associated with different signaling pathways in human GCs, namely D1 (as expected) and D5 (both are Gs coupled and linked to cAMP increase) and D2, D4 (Gi/Gq coupled and linked to IP3/DAG). D3 was not found. The presence of the trophic hormone hCG (10 IU/ml) in the culture medium for several days did not alter mRNA (semiquantitative RT-PCR) or protein levels (immunocytochemistry/Western blotting) of D1,2,4,5 DA receptors. Expression of prototype receptors for the two families, D1 and D2, was furthermore shown in rat granulosa and luteal cells by in situ hybridization. Among the DA receptors found in human GCs, D2 expression was marked both at mRNA and protein levels and it was therefore further studied. Results of additional RT-PCR and Western blots showed two splice variants (D2L, D2S). Irrespective of these variants, D2 proved to be functional, as DA raised intracellular calcium levels. This calcium mobilizing effect of DA was observed in the absence of extracellular calcium and was abolished by a D2 blocker (L-741,626). DA treatment (48 h) of human GCs resulted in slightly, but significantly enlarged, viable cells.

Conclusion
A previous study showed D2 in human GCs, which are linked to cAMP, and the present study reveals the full spectrum of DA receptors present in these endocrine cells, which also includes D2-like receptors, linked to calcium. Ovarian DA can act thus via D1,2,4,5, which are co-expressed by endocrine cells of the follicle and the corpus luteum and are linked to different signaling pathways. This suggests a complex role of DA in the regulation of ovarian processes.
Roles of TRPV1and Neuropeptidergic Receptors in Dorsal Root Reflex-Mediated Neurogenic Inflammation Induced by Intradermal Injection of Capsaicin
Authors: Lin Qing , Li Dingge , Xu Xijin , Zou Xiaoju , Fang Li 
Published: October 2007

Background:Acute cutaneous neurogenic inflammation initiated by activation of transient receptor potential vanilloid-1 (TRPV1) receptors following intradermal injection of capsaicin is mediated mainly by dorsal root reflexes (DRRs). Inflammatory neuropeptides are suggested to be released from primary afferent nociceptors participating in inflammation. However, no direct evidence demonstrates that the release of inflammatory substances is due to the triggering of DRRs and how activation of TRPV1receptors initiates neurogenic inflammation via triggering DRRs.Results:Here we used pharmacological manipulations to analyze the roles of TRPV1and neuropeptidergic receptors in the DRR-mediated neurogenic inflammation induced by intradermal injection of capsaicin. The degree of cutaneous inflammation in the hindpaw that followed capsaicin injection was assessed by measurements of local blood flow (vasodilation) and paw-thickness (edema) of the foot skin in anesthetized rats. Local injection of capsaicin, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) or substance P (SP) resulted in cutaneous vasodilation and edema. Removal of DRRs by either spinal dorsal rhizotomy or intrathecal administration of the GABAAreceptor antagonist, bicuculline, reduced dramatically the capsaicin-induced vasodilation and edema. In contrast, CGRP- or SP-induced inflammation was not significantly affected after DRR removal. Dose-response analysis of the antagonistic effect of the TRPV1receptor antagonist, capsazepine administered peripherally, shows that the capsaicin-evoked inflammation was inhibited in a dose-dependent manner, and nearly completely abolished by capsazepine at doses between 30–150 μg. In contrast, pretreatment of the periphery with different doses of CGRP8–37(a CGRP receptor antagonist) or spantide I (a neurokinin 1 receptor antagonist) only reduced the inflammation. If both CGRP and NK1receptors were blocked by co-administration of CGRP8–37and spantide I, a stronger reduction in the capsaicin-initiated inflammation was produced.Conclusion:Our data suggest that 1) the generation of DRRs is critical for driving the release of neuropeptides antidromically from primary afferent nociceptors; 2) activation of TRPV1receptors in primary afferent nociceptors following intradermal capsaicin injection initiates this process; 3) the released CGRP and SP participate in neurogenic inflammation.
Coronary artery surgery: cardiotomy suction or cell salvage?
Authors: Lau Kelvin , Shah Hetul , Kelleher Andrea , Moat Neil 
Published: October 2007

Abstract
Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) today results in what may be regarded as acceptable levels of blood loss with many institutions avoiding allogeneic red cell transfusion in over 60% of their patients. The majority of cardiac surgeons employ cardiotomy suction to preserve autologous blood during on-pump coronary artery bypass surgery; however the use of cardiotomy suction is associated with a more pronounced systemic inflammatory response and a resulting coagulopathy as well as exacerbating the microembolic load. This leads to a tendency to increased blood loss, transfusion requirement and organ dysfunction. Conversely, the avoidance of cardiotomy suction in coronary artery bypass surgery is not associated with an increased transfusion requirement. There is therefore no indication for the routine use of cardiotomy suction in on-pump coronary artery surgery.
Fas–670 promoter polymorphism is associated to susceptibility, clinical presentation, and survival in adult T cell leukemia
Authors: Farre L , Bittencourt A L , Silva-Santos G , Almeida A , Silva A C , Decanine D , Soares G M , Alcantara L C , Van Dooren S , Galvão-Castro B , Vandamme A M , Van Weyenbergh J 
Published: October 2007

AbstractFas (TNFRSF6/Apo-1/CD95) is a type I transmembrane receptor, which mediates apoptosis. Fas gene mutations, aberrant transcripts, and abundant expression of Fas have been reported in adult T cell leukemia (ATL). To further elucidate the role of Fas in ATL pathogenesis, we investigated whether the –670 FAS promoter A/G polymorphism (STAT1-binding site) might contribute to susceptibility and clinical outcome in ATL. Thirty-one patients with ATL, 33 healthy, human T lymphotropic virus type 1-infected individuals, and 70 healthy, uninfected controls were genotyped for the FAS –670 polymorphism by PCR-restriction fragment-length polymorphism. The AA genotype was significantly over-represented in ATL patients in comparison with healthy controls (P=0.006), as well as asymptomatics (P=0.037), corresponding to an odds ratio (OR) of 3.79 [95% confidence intervals (CI; 1.28–11.41)] and 4.58 [95% CI (1.13–20.03)], respectively. The AA group also comprised significantly more aggressive (acute and lymphoma) clinical subtypes [P=0.012; OR=8.40; 95% CI (1.60–44.12)]. In addition, we observed a statistically significant association between GG genotype and survival (log rank test, P=0.032). Finally, IFN-γ-induced but not basal FAS mRNA levels were increased significantly (P=0.049) in PBMCs from AA versus GG individuals, demonstrating the IFN-dependent functionality of the –670 polymorphism. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that a functional Fas promoter polymorphism is significantly associated to susceptibility, clinical manifestation, and survival in ATL.
Serum amyloid A inhibits apoptosis of human neutrophils via a P2X7-sensitive pathway independent of formyl peptide receptor-like 1
Authors: Christenson Karin , Björkman Lena , Tängemo Carolina , Bylund Johan 
Published: October 2007

AbstractNeutrophil apoptosis is important for the termination of inflammatory reactions, in that it ensures placid clearance of these potently cytotoxic cells. Various proinflammatory cytokines delay neutrophil apoptosis, which may result in accumulation of these cells, sometimes accompanied by tissue destruction, potentially leading to various inflammatory disease states. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is characterized frequently by elevated levels of the acute-phase reactant serum amyloid A (SAA) in circulation and in tissues. SAA is emerging as a cytokine-like molecule with the ability to activate various proinflammatory processes, many of which involve signaling via the formyl peptide receptor-like 1 (FPRL1). In this study, we show that SAA, purified from plasma from RA patients or in recombinant form, suppressed apoptosis of human neutrophils. Blocking FPRL1 did not lessen the antiapoptotic effects of SAA, implying the action of a receptor distinct from FPRL1. In contrast, antagonists of the nucleotide receptor P2X7 abrogated the antiapoptotic effect of SAA completely but did not block intracellular calcium transients evoked by SAA stimulation. Based on these results and also the finding that blocking P2X7 inhibited antiapoptotic actions of unrelated stimuli (LPS and GM-CSF), we propose that P2X7 is a general mediator of antiapoptotic signaling in neutrophils rather than a bona fide SAA receptor.
Visual Recognition and Efficient Isolation of Apoptotic Cells with Fluorescent-Magnetic-Biotargeting Multifunctional Nanospheres
Authors: Song Er-Qun , Wang Guo-Ping , Xie Hai-Yan , Zhang Zhi-Ling , Hu Jun , Peng Jun , Wu Dao-Cheng , Shi Yun-Bo , Pang Dai-Wen 
Published: October 2007

Abstract
Background: Fluorescent-magnetic-biotargeting multifunctional nanospheres are likely to find important applications in bioanalysis, biomedicine, and clinical diagnosis. We have been developing such multifunctional nanospheres for biomedical applications.
Methods: We covalently coupled avidin onto the surfaces of fluorescent-magnetic bifunctional nanospheres to construct fluorescent-magnetic-biotargeting trifunctional nanospheres and analyzed the functionality and specificity of these trifunctional nanospheres for their ability to recognize and isolate apoptotic cells labeled with biotinylated annexin V, which recognizes phosphatidylserine exposed on the surfaces of apoptotic cells.
Results: The multifunctional nanospheres can be used in combination with propidium iodide staining of nuclear DNA to identify cells at different phases of the apoptotic process. Furthermore, we demonstrate that apoptotic cells induced by exposure to ultraviolet light can be isolated simply with a magnet from living cells at an efficiency of at least 80%; these cells can then be easily visualized with a fluorescence microscope.
Conclusions: Our results show that fluorescent-magnetic-biotargeting trifunctional nanospheres can be a powerful tool for rapidly recognizing, magnetically enriching and sorting, and simultaneously identifying different kinds of cells.
Master Integrated Reactor Vessel Surveillance Program
Authors: Hall J. Brian , Spond Dan F. 
Published: October 2007

Abstract
The B&W Owners Group Master Integrated Reactor Vessel Surveillance Program (MIRVP) was initiated in 1977 for the B&W 177 fuel assembly (FA) plants. Its purpose was to augment the existing reactor vessel surveillance programs and provide a basis for sharing information between plants. All of the early vintage B&W-manufactured reactor vessels were fabricated using the submerged arc welding process and particular consumables, which resulted in welds that are sensitive to fast-neutron exposures. The welds in these vintage B&W-manufactured reactor vessels are referred to as the Linde 80 class of materials. In 1988, the MIRVP was further modified to include a series of plants with the Westinghouse Nuclear Steam Supply System for which B&W manufactured the reactor vessels. These vessels have virtually identical welds as those used in the B&W 177 FA plants. The overall objective of the MIRVP is to provide the data necessary to ensure compliance with U.S. Federal Regulations. With the extension of operating licenses to 60 years for many of the member plants, the program was re-evaluated to ensure that data will be available for 60 and 80 years of operation. Projected reactor vessel fluence levels at 60 and 80 years were compared to available data and projected irradiations of the surveillance capsules that continue to be irradiated. This paper presents an overview of the MIRVP, data evaluation, results, and the withdrawal schedule adjustments. The program has adequate surveillance capsules to meet the irradiation needs of the participating plants for 80 years; however, the planned withdrawal schedule has been adjusted.
Pilot Study on Wind Uplift Resistance of Adhesive Applied Low Slope Roofing Systems
Authors: Baskaran Bas A. , Murty Bona , Tanaka Hiroshi 
Published: October 2007

Abstract
A new generation of built-up roofs, known as Adhesive Applied Roofing Systems (AARS), is gaining popularity in North America for low slope application. AARS use no fasteners for components’ attachment and all components (e.g., insulation board, cover board, and membranes) are integrated by application of adhesives. Since there are no metal fasteners, AARS can offer advantages of reduction in moisture migration and thermal bridging. Moisture in the roof envelope can lead generally to material deterioration, structural integrity problems, and the growth of mould. Even though AARS are in commercial use, there is no existing test standard to quantify their wind uplift performance. A new project, “Development of Wind Uplift Standard for Adhesive Applied Low Slope Roofing Systems,” has been initiated in collaboration with industries, university, and the Canadian Government. The project has three major tasks: experimental investigation, formulation of a numerical model, and development of wind design guide and standard. Task 1 completes preliminary investigations by constructing eight mock-ups. All mock-ups had steel deck and polyisocyanurate insulation and varied in adhesives (type, quantity, and application method), cover boards, and membranes. Mock-ups were subjected to both static and dynamic wind loading conditions. Experimental data showed similarity in failure modes and variations in wind uplift ratings. Data show that among the mockups, the weakest link varied depending on the type of adhesives used and component arrangements. This paper presents and discusses the data from this ongoing experimental investigation.
Age, Growth, and Reproduction of Greater Amberjack off the Southeastern U.S. Atlantic Coast
Authors: Harris Patrick J. , Wyanski David M. , White D. Byron , Mikell Paulette P. , Eyo Pamela B. 
Published: October 2007

AbstractThe greater amberjack Seriola dumerili is a pelagic, epibenthic species that is widely distributed in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian oceans. Life history samples from a total of 2,729 greater amberjacks were collected between 2000 and 2004 by personnel of the Marine Resource Monitoring Assessment and Prediction program and National Marine Fisheries Service port agents from recreational fisherman and in commercial fish houses from Cape Lookout, North Carolina, to Key West, Florida. Ages were estimated using thin transverse otolith sections from 1,996 specimens; sex and reproductive state were assigned to 2,517 fish based on histological preparations of gonadal tissues. Ages of greater amberjacks sampled ranged from 1 to 13 years; these data were described with a von Bertalanffy growth equation fitted to all aged specimens: Lt = 1,241.5 × [1 − e−0.28(t+1.56)]. Sexual dimorphism was evident; females were larger at age than males. Size at 50% maturity was 644 mm fork length (FL) for males and 733 mm FL for females. Age at 50% maturity for females was 1.3 years. Estimates of potential annual fecundity ranged from 18,271,400 to 59,032,800 oocytes for 930‐1,296‐mm specimens and from 25,472,100 to 47,194,300 oocytes for ages 3‐7. Peak spawning occurred primarily off south Florida and the Florida Keys during April and May. Even though the extremely fast growth, early maturation, very high fecundity, and wide distribution of greater amberjacks suggest that the population would be difficult to overexploit, a recent stock assessment of the Gulf of Mexico population shows that the species is vulnerable to overexploitation and should managed more conservatively than the life history characteristics imply.