The synthesis and characterization of poly(γ-glutamic acid)-coated magnetite nanoparticles and their effects on antibacterial activity and cytotoxicity

Magnetite nanoparticles (MNPs) modified with sodium and calcium salts of poly(γ-glutamic acid) (NaPGA and CaPGA) were synthesized by the coprecipitation method, followed by characterization and evaluation of their antibacterial and cytotoxic effects. Superparamagnetic MNPs are particularly attractive for magnetic driving as well as bacterial biofilm and cell targeting in in vivo applications. Characterization of synthesized MNPs by the Fourier transform infrared spectra and magnetization curves confirmed the PGA coating on MNPs. The mean diameter of NaPGA- and CaPGA-coated MNPs as determined by transmission electron microscopy was 11.8 and 14 nm, respectively, while the x-ray diffraction pattern revealed the as-synthesized MNPs to be pure magnetite. Based on agar dilution assay, both NaPGA- and CaPGA-coated MNPs showed a lower minimum inhibitory concentration in Salmonella enteritidis SE 01 than the commercial antibiotics linezolid and cefaclor, but the former was effective against Escherichia coli ATCC 8739 and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 10832, whereas the latter was effective against Escherichia coli O157:H7 TWC 01. An in vitro cytotoxicity study in human skin fibroblast cells as measured by MTT assay implied the as-synthesized MNPs to be nontoxic. This outcome demonstrated that both γ-PGA-modified MNPs are cytocompatible and possess antibacterial activity in vitro, and thereby should be useful in in vivo studies for biomedical applications.

Coffee and caffeine consumption in relation to sex hormone-binding globulin and risk of type 2 diabetes in postmenopausal women

OBJECTIVE

Coffee consumption has been inversely associated with type 2 diabetes risk, but its mechanisms are largely unknown. We aimed to examine whether plasma levels of sex hormones and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) may account for the inverse association between coffee consumption and type 2 diabetes risk.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We conducted a case-control study nested in the prospective Women's Health Study (WHS). During a median follow-up of 10 years, 359 postmenopausal women with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes were matched with 359 control subjects by age, race, duration of follow-up, and time of blood draw.

RESULTS

Caffeinated coffee was positively associated with SHBG but not with sex hormones. Multivariable-adjusted geometric mean levels of SHBG were 26.6 nmol/l among women consuming ≥4 cups/day of caffeinated coffee and 23.0 nmol/l among nondrinkers (P for trend = 0.01). In contrast, neither decaffeinated coffee nor tea was associated with SHBG or sex hormones. The multivariable-adjusted odds ratio (OR) of type 2 diabetes for women consuming ≥4 cups/day of caffeinated coffee compared with nondrinkers was 0.47 (95% CI 0.23-0.94; P for trend = 0.047). The association was largely attenuated after further adjusting for SHBG (OR 0.71 [95% CI 0.31-1.61]; P for trend = 0.47). In addition, carriers of rs6259 minor allele and noncarriers of rs6257 minor allele of SHBG gene consuming ≥2 cups/day of caffeinated coffee had lower risk of type 2 diabetes in directions corresponding to their associated SHBG.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that SHBG may account for the inverse association between coffee consumption and type 2 diabetes risk among postmenopausal women.

Preparative chromatography of flavonoids and saponins in Gynostemma pentaphyllum and their antiproliferation effect on hepatoma cell

A preparative column chromatographic method was developed to isolate flavonoids and saponins from Gynostemma pentaphyllum, a Chinese Medicinal herb, and evaluate their antiproliferation effect on hepatoma cell Hep3B, with the standards rutin and ginsenoside Rb(3) being used for comparison. Initially the powdered G. pentaphyllum was extracted with ethanol, followed by eluting flavonoids and saponins with ethanol-water (30:70, v/v) and 100% ethanol, respectively, in an open-column containing 5 g of Cosmosil 75C(18)-OPN, and then subjected to HPLC-MS analysis. The flavonoid fraction was mainly composed of quercetin- and kaempferol-glycosides, while in saponin fraction, both ginsenoside Rb(3) and ginsenoside Rd dominated. Both fractions were more effective against Hep3B cells than the standards rutin and ginsenoside Rb(3), with the cell cycle being arrested at G0/G1 phase for all the treatments. Additionally, the inhibition effect followed a dose-dependent increase for all the sample treatments. The result of this study may be used as a basis for possible phytopreparations in the future with G. pentaphyllum as raw material.

Inhibition effect of poly(γ-glutamic acid) on lead-induced toxicity in mice

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the efficiency in treatment of lead-induced intoxication in mice with γ-PGA as chelating agent and compare with the drug (meso-2,3-dimercaptosuccinic acid). The results showed the incorporation of γ-PGA at 200 and 400 mg/kg could reduce the accumulation of lead in the liver, heart, and testis; however, the latter was more effective in decreasing the lead content in the kidney and spleen. Nevertheless, both doses failed to inhibit the lead accumulation in the lung and brain. Additionally, both doses of γ-PGA could reduce TBARs in the kidney and brain, as well as elevate δ-aminolevulinic acid dehydrase (δ-ALAD) activity in blood and decrease glutamic pyruvic transaminase (GPT) and lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) activities in the serum. For hematological parameters, both white blood cells (WBCs) and hematocrite (HCT) were raised by 400 mg/kg of γ-PGA, while for both doses of γ-PGA, a slight decline in hemoglobin (HGB), mean cell volume (MCV), mean cell hemoglobin (MCH), and mean cell hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) was observed, with the red blood cells (RBCs) being unaffected.

Formation and inhibition of cholesterol oxidation products in tea-leaf eggs during marinating

The objectives of this study were to develop a GC-MS method for determination of cholesterol oxidation products (COPs) in tea-leaf eggs and study the formation and inhibition of COPs as affected by heating time and various ingredients in marinated juice. The various COPs in egg and juice samples were extracted by a solvent system of chloroform/methanol (2:1, v/v), followed by purification using a silica cartridge and GC-MS for subsequent separation and quantitation, with high recovery ranges from 85.9 to 98.3% and from 83.1-100.1% being obtained for egg and juice, respectively. 5α-Cholestane was shown to be an appropriate internal standard for quantitation. A total of five COPs, including 7-keto, 5,6 β-EP, 7α-OH, 7β-OH, and triol, were formed in tea-leaf eggs during marinating, but not in marinated juice. A peak level of total COPs (2272.2 ng/g) was generated in tea-leaf eggs after 24 h of heating, but reduced to 1068.2 ng/g in 48 h. Both the total phenolic and flavonoid compounds in tea-leaf eggs showed a time-dependent increase during marinating and so did the pH and browning index in tea-leaf eggs and juice. The incorporation of soy sauce or black tea leaf into juice was effective in inhibiting COPs formation in tea-leaf eggs, with the latter being more pronounced than the former. The formation of Maillard reaction products during marinating as well as the presence of total phenolic and total flavonoid in black tea leaf was mainly responsible for COPs reduction in tea-leaf eggs.

Selective induction of apoptosis in glioma tumour cells by a Gynostemma pentaphyllum extract

At low concentration H(2)O(2) is an important signal molecule in proliferation of tumour cells. We report about a study investigating the effect of an ethanolic extract from Gynostemma pentaphyllum on proliferation of C6 glioma tumour cells and cellular H(2)O(2) concentration. The proliferation of these cells was maximal at about 1 muM extracellular H(2)O(2). HPLC-finger prints of the extract revealed a set of saponines as essential components. In C6 glioma cells the extract caused increase in super oxide dismutase (SOD) activity, in the amount of SOD protein, and in cellular H(2)O(2) concentration. It inhibited cell proliferation and induced activation of caspase 3 as indication of apoptosis. No effect of the extract was observed on the proliferation of astrocytes of a primary cell culture. From these findings we suggest that the ethanolic extract from Gynostemma pentaphyllum may selectively shift the H(2)O(2) concentration to toxic levels exclusively in tumour cells due to increased SOD activity. It may have a high potency in cancer therapy and cancer prophylaxis.

Association of resistin promoter polymorphisms with plasma resistin levels and type 2 diabetes in women and men

This study's objective was to examine the associations between resistin (RETN) polymorphisms, plasma resistin levels, and type 2 diabetes risk. We conducted two nested case-control studies in postmenopausal women (359 incident cases and 359 controls) and middle-aged/elderly men (170 incident cases and 170 controls). Controls were matched (1:1) to cases by age, race, duration of follow-up, and time of blood draw. Circulating resistin levels were higher among carriers of the variant allele for rs34861192 (p<0.0001 for women, p=0.002 for men) but not rs1862513 (p=0.15 for women, p=0.14 for men). Neither polymorphism was significantly associated with risk of type 2 diabetes after adjusting for diabetes risk factors (exercise, smoking status, alcohol intake, family history of diabetes, and matching factors) among women (rs1862513: OR=1.19, 95% CI=0.80-1.77; rs34861192: OR=0.41, 95% CI=0.14-1.19) and men (rs1862513: OR=1.05, 95% CI=0.57-1.95; rs34861192: OR=0.64, 95% CI=0.14-2.89). In conclusion, RETN promoter polymorphism rs34861192 was associated with elevated circulating resistin levels, but rs1862513 was not. Neither polymorphism was associated with an increased risk for type 2 diabetes.

Knowledge about glaucoma and barriers to follow-up care in a community glaucoma screening program

OBJECTIVE

To assess perceived barriers to glaucoma follow-up care, including the lack of glaucoma knowledge and the lack of health care access, among participants in a community glaucoma screening program.

DESIGN

Community survey.

PARTICIPANTS

Two hundred forty-three consecutive participants in a series of free glaucoma screenings between November 2002 and August 2003.

METHODS

The survey consisted of 20 questions designed to elicit knowledge of glaucoma and perception of potential barriers to follow-up care. Our aim was to find correlations between patient demographics and knowledge of glaucoma as well as perceived potential barriers to follow-up care. The data were analyzed using SPSS, v. 10.1.

RESULTS

The average age of the respondents was 70 years, and females predominated (66%). About half of the respondents knew of an eye doctor in their neighborhood, and 60% had had an eye examination in the past year. Two hundred twenty-two (91%) indicated they could get to an eye doctor if the screening examination indicated they needed a follow-up examination. Two hundred twenty (90.5%) had medical insurance. One hundred seventy-eight (73%) of the participants had heard of glaucoma; 71 (29%) identified an accurate definition of glaucoma. The level of education and the language spoken at home were correlated with both glaucoma awareness (p < 0.001; p < 0.001) and knowledge of an accurate definition of glaucoma (p < 0.001; p < 0.025).

CONCLUSIONS

In this population, a lack of adequate education about glaucoma may be more significantly associated with poor follow-up rates than a lack of access to care in those identified as glaucoma suspects.

Circulating levels of resistin and risk of type 2 diabetes in men and women: results from two prospective cohorts

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of circulating resistin levels in the development of type 2 diabetes using two prospective cohorts of well-characterized men and women.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We conducted two prospective case-control studies nested in the Women's Health Study (WHS) and Physicians' Health Study II (PHS II). In the WHS, during a median of 10-years of follow-up, 359 postmenopausal women, who were apparently healthy at baseline and later developed type 2 diabetes, were prospectively matched with 359 healthy control subjects. In the PHS II, with 8 years of total follow-up, 170 men, who were apparently healthy at baseline and later developed type 2 diabetes, were matched with 170 healthy control subjects. Control subjects were matched by age, race, and time of blood draw.

RESULTS

Resistin levels at baseline were significantly higher in women than in men (P = 0.003) and in case patients than in control subjects for both women (P < 0.001) and men (P = 0.07). After adjustment for matching factors, physical activity, alcohol intake, smoking, and family history of diabetes, the relative risk of type 2 diabetes comparing the highest to the lowest quartile of resistin in women was 2.22 ([95% CI 1.32-3.73]; Ptrend = 0.002). This association was attenuated after further adjustment for BMI (1.51 [0.86-2.65]; Ptrend = 0.20) or C-reactive protein (1.18 [0.68-2.07]; Ptrend = 0.60). A similar but weaker pattern was observed in men.

CONCLUSIONS

Elevated levels of circulating resistin were significantly related to increased risk of type 2 diabetes, which appears to be partially accounted for by adiposity and the inflammatory process.

In vitro binding of heavy metals by an edible biopolymer poly(gamma-glutamic acid)

An edible biopolymer poly(gamma-glutamic acid) (gamma-PGA) was evaluated for possible use as an chelating/binding agent in the treatment of metal intoxication in humans. In vitro binding of the toxic heavy metals lead and cadmium as affected by pH, contact time, metal concentration, gamma-PGA dose, and essential metals was carried out in a batch mode. A maximum binding occurred in the pH range 5-7, corresponding to the gastrointestinal pH values except for the stomach. Binding isotherms at pH 5.5 were well described by the heterogeneous models (Freundlich and Toth), while the lead isotherm at pH 2.5 showed a S-type curve, which was fitted as multiple curves with the Langmuir model and a shifted-squared Langmuir model. However, no adsorption occurred for cadmium at pH 2.5. The maximum binding capacities of lead and cadmium at pH 5.5 were 213.58 and 41.85 mg/g, respectively. A curvilinear biphasic Scatchard plot signified a multisite interaction of metals. Binding was extremely rapid with 70-100% of total adsorption being attained in 2 min. Kinetics at low and high metal concentrations obeyed pseudo-first-order and pseudo-second-order models, respectively. The gamma-PGA dose-activity relationship revealed a low dose of gamma-PGA to be more efficient in binding a large amount of metals. Incorporation of Cu, Zn, Fe, Mg, Ca, and K showed only a minor influence on lead binding but significantly reduced the binding of cadmium.

Adsorption of toxic mercury(II) by an extracellular biopolymer poly(gamma-glutamic acid)

Adsorption of mercury(II) by an extracellular biopolymer, poly(gamma-glutamic acid) (gamma-PGA), was studied as a function of pH, temperature, agitation time, ionic strength, light and heavy metal ions. An appreciable adsorption occurred at pH>3 and reached a maximum at pH 6. Isotherms were well predicted by Redlich-Peterson model with a dominating Freundlich behavior, implying the heterogeneous nature of mercury(II) adsorption. The adsorption followed an exothermic and spontaneous process with increased orderliness at solid/solution interface. The adsorption was rapid with 90% being attained within 5 min for a 80 mg/L mercury(II) solution, and the kinetic data were precisely described by pseudo second order model. Ionic strength due to added sodium salts reduced the mercury(II) binding with the coordinating ligands following the order: Cl(-) >SO(4)(2-) >>NO(3)(-). Both light and heavy metal ions decreased mercury(II) binding by gamma-PGA, with calcium(II) ions showing a more pronounced effect than monovalent sodium and potassium ions, while the interfering heavy metal ions followed the order: Cu(2+) >> Cd(2+) > Zn(2+). Distilled water adjusted to pH 2 using hydrochloric acid recovered 98.8% of mercury(II), and gamma-PGA reuse for five cycles of operation showed a loss of only 6.5%. IR spectra of gamma-PGA and Hg(II)-gamma-PGA revealed binding of mercury(II) with carboxylate and amide groups on gamma-PGA.

NTD prevalences in central California before and after folic acid fortification

BACKGROUND

In many regions, NTD prevalences were already declining prior to folic acid fortification. This study examined whether the declining prefortification (1989-1996) NTD prevalences continued into the postfortification period (1998-2003) in selected California counties.

METHODS

This population-based study used vital statistics data and birth defects registry data that were actively ascertained from medical records. The study population included all live births and stillbirths delivered in central California counties from 1989 to 2003. Cases included deliveries with NTDs during the same time period.

RESULTS

For all NTDs combined, the slopes indicated that NTD prevalence was decreasing by 7.5 (slope: -7.5; 95% CI: -12.4, -2.5) cases per 100,000 deliveries per year before fortification, whereas NTD prevalence was no longer decreasing after fortification. Comparison of the difference in the two slopes indicated that the postfortification slope exceeded the prefortification slope by 12.6 (95% CI: 2.6, 22.6) cases per 100,000 deliveries per year.

CONCLUSIONS

Annual NTD prevalences in central California did not continue to decrease after implementation of folic acid fortification.

Determination of carotenoids and their esters in fruits of Lycium barbarum Linnaeus by HPLC-DAD-APCI-MS

The fruit of Lycium barbarum Linnaeus, a traditional Chinese herb containing functional components such as carotenoids, flavonoids and polysaccharides, has been widely used in the health food industry because of its possible role in the prevention of chronic disease like age-related macular degeneration. The objectives of this study were to develop a high performance liquid chromatography-photo diode array detection-mass spectrometry (HPLC-DAD-MS) method with atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI) mode for qualitative and quantitative analyses of carotenoids in fruits of L. barbarum. Dried samples of L. barbarum were subjected to extraction without saponification or extraction followed by saponification. A C30 column with a gradient mobile phase of methylene chloride (100%) and methanol-acetonitrile-water (81:14:5, v/v/v) was used to separate carotenoids, with a total of 11 free carotenoids and 7 carotenoid esters being resolved from unsaponified and saponified L. barbarum extracts within 51 and 41 min, respectively. The fatty acid composition of carotenoid esters was confirmed by gas chromatography. Zeaxanthin dipalmitate (1143.7 microg/g) was present in the largest amount, followed by beta-cryptoxanthin monopalmitate and its two isomers (32.9-68.5 microg/g), zeaxanthin monopalmitate and its two isomers (11.3-62.8 microg/g), all-trans-beta-carotene (23.7 microg/g) and all-trans-zeaxanthin (1.4 microg/g).

Effects of temperature and pH on adsorption of basic brown 1 by the bacterial biopolymer poly(gamma-glutamic acid)

Poly(gamma-glutamic acid) (gamma-PGA), an extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) synthesized by Bacillus species, was explored to study its interaction with the basic brown 1 dye by conducting a systematic batch adsorption study as affected by two critical parameters, temperature and pH. Adsorption isotherms were closely predicted by Temkin equation among the eight isotherm models tested. The rate of adsorption was very rapid attaining equilibrium within 60 min and the kinetics were well described by both modified second-order and pseudo second-order models. Boyd's ion exchange model, which assumes exchanges of ions to be a chemical phenomenon, also fitted the kinetic data precisely. The adsorption rate increased with increasing solution temperature, however, a reversed trend was observed for the adsorption capacity. Changes in enthalpy, entropy and free energy values revealed dye adsorption by gamma-PGA to be an exothermic and spontaneous process involving no structural modification in gamma-PGA, whereas the activation energy of 37.21 kJ/mol indicated dye adsorption to be reaction-controlled. Following a rise in solution pH, the dye adsorption increased and reached a plateau at pH 5, while the maximum release of dye from spent gamma-PGA occurred at pH 1.5, suggesting a possible ion exchange mechanism. Ion exchange adsorption of basic dyes by gamma-PGA was further proved by the presence of two new IR bands at approximately 1600 and 1405.72 cm(-1), representing asymmetric and symmetric stretching vibration of carboxylate anion, for dye-treated gamma-PGA.

Anti-inflammatory effects of isoflavone powder produced from soybean cake

Soybean cake, a byproduct obtained during the processing of soybean oil, has been shown to be a rich source of isoflavones. The objectives of this study were to use soybean cake as raw material for processing into powder and to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity. Eleven treatments, including powders of malonylglucoside, glucoside, acetylglucoside, aglycone, ISO-1, and ISO-2, as well as genistein standard, gamma-PGA, control, normal, and PDTC, were used for evaluation. A total of 77 mice were each provided daily with tube feeding for 4 weeks at a dose of 0.3 mL of aqueous solution from each treatment, and inflammation was induced with intraperitoneal injection of 1 mg/kg of body weight lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Results showed that all of the isoflavone powders and genistein standard were effective in inhibiting LPS-induced inflammation, lowering leukocyte number in mice blood and reducing production of IL-1beta, IL-6, NO, and PGE2 in both peritoneal exudate cell supernatant and peritoneal exudate fluid. All of the isoflavone treatments failed to retard T cell proliferation; however, both ISO-1 and ISO-2 could inhibit B cell proliferation. The difference in anti-inflammatory activity was minor between any of the isoflavone treatments.

Is alpha2-macroglobulin important in female stress urinary incontinence?

BACKGROUND

Loss of mechanical stability of the urethra and bladder is thought to be important in the development of stress urinary incontinence (SUI). The vaginal wall is the main supporting tissue for pelvic organs and changes in components of supporting tissues are known to be involved in the pathophysiology of SUI.

METHODS

We evaluated changes in expression of alpha2-macroglobulin (alpha2-M), a protease inhibitor, in vaginal wall tissues from premenopausal women (aged 42-45 years) with SUI (n = 28) compared with menstrual cycle-matched continent women (controls, n = 29). The distribution of alpha2-M in vaginal wall tissues and fibroblasts was analysed by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. Expression levels of alpha2-M mRNA and protein was determined by relative real-time quantitative PCR and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. Protease inhibition was measured to assess bioactivity.

RESULTS

Vaginal wall tissues do express alpha2-M. Expression of alpha2-M mRNA and protein was significantly higher in tissues from controls compared to women with SUI in both proliferative and secretory phases (P < 0.05). Protease inhibitory activity of alpha2-M was significantly higher in tissues from controls compared to women with SUI in the secretory phase (P < 0.05), but we found no difference in the proliferative phase between groups. alpha2-M protein level was lower in the proliferative phase than the secretory phase in both controls and SUI patients, while for alpha2-M mRNA this was found only in controls.

CONCLUSIONS

Decreased expression of alpha2-M mRNA and protein and protease inhibitory activity in the vaginal wall tissues of women with SUI may contribute to the development of SUI.

Association between 49 infant gene polymorphisms and preterm delivery

The occurrence of preterm delivery has been increasing in the U.S. Previous studies have identified risk factors for preterm delivery that may have genetic influences. We conducted a case-control study comparing the frequencies of 49 genetic polymorphisms among 62 preterm infants and 553 term infants. The polymorphisms that we examined were involved in xenobiotic-metabolism, blood pressure, coagulation, the inflammatory response, cell-cell interaction, or folate-homocysteine metabolism. Univariate analyses on the individual polymorphisms revealed a statistically significant effect for the variant genotypes compared to the wildtype genotypes in SERPINE1 11053G > T (OR = 0.4, 95% CI = 0.2-0.8). This finding suggests the coagulation/thrombophilic pathway may influence the development of preterm delivery.

Encapsulation of lycopene extract from tomato pulp waste with gelatin and poly(gamma-glutamic acid) as carrier

Tomato pulp waste, a byproduct obtained during the processing of tomato juice, has been shown to be a rich source of lycopene. The objectives of this study were to use gelatin and poly(gamma-glutamic acid) (gamma-PGA) as coating materials for the encapsulation of lycopene extract from tomato pulp waste. Initially, lycopene was extracted with supercritical carbon dioxide, followed by microencapsulation using an emulsion system consisting of 4.5% gelatin, 10% gamma-PGA, and 4.8% lycopene extract. Analysis of differential scanning calorimetry revealed that the thermal stability of the coating material could be up to 120 degrees C, with a mean particle size of 38.7 microm based on Coulter counter analysis. The total weight of microencapsulated powder was 617 microg with the yield of lycopene being 76.5%, indicating a 23.5% loss during freeze drying. During storage of microencapsulated powder, the concentrations of cis-, trans-, and total lycopene decreased along with increasing time and temperature. A fast release of lycopene in the powder occurred at pH 5.5 and 7.0, while no lycopene was released at pH 2.0 and 3.5.

Differences in mRNA and protein expression of small proteoglycans in vaginal wall tissue from women with and without stress urinary incontinence

BACKGROUND

To investigate changes in mRNA and protein levels of biglycan (BGN), decorin (DCN) and fibromodulin (FMOD) in vaginal wall tissue from women with stress urinary incontinence (SUI) compared to menstrual-cycle matched continent women.

METHODS

We determined mRNA expressions of BGN, DCN and FMOD by quantitative real-time PCR. They were localized in vaginal wall tissue by immunohistochemistry. We performed western blot analysis to examine protein expression.

RESULTS

BGN, DCN and FMOD co-localized with collagen and elastin in the extracellular matrix (ECM) of vaginal wall tissue from both groups. The mRNA expression of FMOD was significantly lower in cases versus controls in the proliferative phase (P = 0.03). DCN mRNA expression in cases was higher in the proliferative (P = 0.05) and secretory phases (P = 0.02) versus controls. BGN mRNA expression showed no significant differences in either phase. Protein expression of FMOD in cases was lower in the proliferative phase versus controls (six out of nine pairs), whereas DCN and BGN protein expression in the secretory phase in cases was higher (seven out of nine pairs).

CONCLUSION

BGN, DCN and FMOD expressions in vaginal wall tissue differ in women with SUI and are hormonally modulated. Differences in small proteoglycans may contribute to the altered pelvic floor connective tissues found in these women.

Novel risk factor in gastroschisis: Change of paternity

In recent years, an increase in the rate of gastroschisis has been documented in several countries throughout the world. Based on accumulating evidence that a maternal immunologic response to a novel set of paternal antigens may be involved in risk for several adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preeclampsia, reduced birth weight, and preterm delivery, we tested the hypothesis that a pregnancy following a change in fathers (change in paternity) may be a risk factor for gastroschisis. Using a case-control design, we compared the prevalence of change in paternity with the index pregnancy in 102 mothers of isolated gastroschisis cases to the prevalence of change in paternity in 117 mothers of non-malformed infants and 78 mothers of infants with neural tube defects or oral clefts. In a multivariate analysis, the adjusted odds of change in paternity in multigravid case mothers were 7.81 times higher (95% Confidence interval 2.80-21.88) relative to multigravid mothers of malformed and non-malformed controls combined, after adjustment for maternal age. These data suggest that maternal immune factors may play a role in the cause of gastroschisis. Further research is needed to corroborate these findings and to elucidate possible immunologic mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of gastroschisis.

Removal of cationic dyes from aqueous solution using an anionic poly-gamma-glutamic acid-based adsorbent

Natural polymeric materials are gaining interest for application as adsorbents in wastewater treatment due to their biodegradable and non-toxic nature. In this study, a biopolymer, poly-gamma-glutamic acid (gamma-PGA) derived from bacterial sources (Bacillus species) was evaluated for its efficiency in removing basic dyes from aqueous solution. Sorption studies under batch mode were conducted using C.I. Basic blue 9 (BB9) and C.I. Basic green 4 (BG4) as test dyes. Equilibrium process conformed well with the Redlich-Peterson isotherm equation and the monolayer sorption capacity obtained from the Langmuir model was 352.76 and 293.32mg/g for BB9 and BG4 dyes, respectively. The kinetic studies of dye sorption on gamma-PGA gave high coefficients of determination (>0.98) for a pseudo second-order equation. An ion-exchange model, which assumes adsorption as a chemical phenomenon, was also found to fit the kinetic data precisely. The dye sorption largely depended on the initial pH of the solution with maximum uptake occurring at pH above 5. About 98% of the dye adsorbed on gamma-PGA could be recovered at pH 1, which facilitates the reuse of spent gamma-PGA.

Lack of formation of heterocyclic amines in fumes from frying French fries

The formation of heterocyclic amines (HAs) in the fumes from frying French fries in soybean oil or lard was studied. A high-pressure liquid chromatography method was used to determine the various HAs in fumes. Results showed that the yields of fumes produced from soybean oil when heated alone for 2 or 4 h were higher than from lard; however, a reversed trend was found when frying French fries in soybean oil and lard. Most fumes from soybean oil and lard while frying French fries were adsorbed onto the condensation apparatus, while the other portions were adsorbed onto the wool and glass beads, which were incorporated in our experimental design for collecting the fumes. The fumes from soybean oil when heated alone were found to contain three HAs, namely, 2-amino-3-methylimidazo[4,5-f]quinoxaline (IQx), 2-amino-3-methylimidazo[4,5-f ]quinoline (IQ), and 1-methyl-9H-pyrido[4,3-b ]indole (Harman), whereas two more HAs, 2-amino-3,4-dimethylimidazo[4,5-f]quinoline (MeIQ) and 3-amino-1,4-dimethyl-5H-pyrido[4,3-b ]indole (Trp-P-1), were generated in lard. Lard was more susceptible to the formation of HAs than soybean oil when both were heated alone. No HAs were detected in the fumes from French fries fried in soybean oil and lard.

Effect of pH on binding of mutagenic heterocyclic amines by the natural biopolymer poly(gamma-glutamic acid)

Poly(gamma-glutamic acid) (gamma-PGA), a nontoxic and biodegradable macropolymer, was evaluated for its efficiency in binding three mutagenic heterocyclic amines (HAs), 2-amino-3,4-dimethylimidazo[4,5-f]quinoline (MeIQ), 2-amino-3,4,8-trimethylimidazo[4,5-f]quinoxaline (4,8-DiMeIQx), and 3-amino-1-methyl-5H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Trp-p-2), as affected by pH in a batch mode. The maximum HA sorption was attained for pH 3-7 and decreased sharply for pH less than 3. Binding isotherms obtained at pH 2.5 and 5.5 showed different isotherm shapes that belong to S and L types, respectively. The isotherm data at pH 2.5 were well described by a linear form of the Langmuir equation, while at pH 5.5 it showed two distinct curves, which were precisely fitted as multiple Langmuir curves. The deviation of linearity in Scatchard plot proved the multisite HA sorption. The Brunauer-Emmett-Teller equation also fitted better to isotherm data at pH 5.5, suggesting a multisite sorption caused by multimolecular HA layers on gamma-PGA. High HA sorption levels of 1250, 667, and 1429 mg/g at pH 2.5 and 1429, 909, and 1667 mg/g at pH 5.5 were observed for MeIQ, 4,8-DiMeIQx, and Trp-p-2, respectively. Among the HAs studied, the sorption capacity correlated directly with hydrophobicity of HAs and inversely with the number of methyl groups in HA molecules. The plausible binding mechanism of HAs on gamma-PGA may include a combination of hydrophobic, hydrogen-bonding, ionic, and dipole-dipole interactions.

Prevalence of periconceptional folic acid use and perceived barriers to the postgestation continuance of supplemental folic acid: Survey results from a Teratogen Information Service

BACKGROUND

Fewer than 40% of U.S. women are taking folic acid supplements periconceptionally at a time when the risk of neural tube defects (NTDs) can be reduced by supplementation. A better understanding of the vitamin-taking habits of childbearing-age women and effective methods for improving periconceptional supplement use are needed.

METHODS

A telephone survey conducted through the California Teratogen Information Service (TIS) between August 2003 and January 2004 assessed the prevalence and characteristics of pregnant callers who did not use folic acid supplements in the periconceptional period, and explored attitudes toward advice to continue vitamin use following pregnancy in order to be protected in a future pregnancy.

RESULTS

A total of 327 pregnant women who called the TIS for information agreed to participate in the survey. More than half (53.2%) were not taking folic acid-containing supplements in the periconceptional period. Predictors of lack of use included a higher prepregnancy body mass index, younger maternal age, non-white race/ethnicity, lower education level, and unplanned pregnancy. One-quarter of the women said they would be willing to continue taking vitamins after the pregnancy if advised to do so by a physician. The remainder identified obstacles to following that advice--notably, not planning to become pregnant again and the belief that enough folate is derived from diet alone.

CONCLUSIONS

More than half of the callers to the TIS were not compliant with recommendations regarding periconceptional folic acid supplementation. This represents an opportunity for TIS specialists and physicians to intervene in a current pregnancy to encourage maintenance of supplement use in the subsequent interpregnancy interval.

Improved high performance liquid chromatographic method for determination of carotenoids in the microalga Chlorella pyrenoidosa

Microalgae have become an important commercial source of carotenoids and microalgae-derived functional foods are consumed by people worldwide. Therefore, an HPLC method was developed to discern the variety and content of carotenoids in the microalga Chlorella pyrenoidosa. The microalga sample was powdered, extracted, saponified and subjected to HPLC analysis. A mobile phase of methanol-acetonitrile-water (84:14:2, v/v/v) (A) and methylene chloride (100%) (B) with the following gradient elution was developed: 100% A and 0% B in the beginning, maintained for 14 min, decreased to 95% A in 25 min, 75% A in 30 min, 74% A in 35 min, 45% A in 50 min and returned to 100% A in 55 min. A total of 32 carotenoids were resolved within 49 min by using a C30 column with flow rate at 1 mL/min and detection at 450 nm. An internal standard beta-apo-8'-carotenal was used to quantify all the carotenoids. All-trans-lutein was present in exceptionally large amount (125034.4 microg/g), followed by cis isomers of lutein (27975.3 microg/g), all-trans-alpha-carotene (2465.8 microg/g), zeaxanthin (2170.3 microg/g), cis isomers of beta-carotene (2159.3 microg/g), all-trans-beta-carotene (2155.0 microg/g), cis isomers of alpha-carotene (1766.7 microg/g), beta-cryptoxanthin (334.9 microg/g), neoxanthin and its cis isomers (199.7 microg/g), neochrome (65.2 microg/g), auroxanthin (38.5 microg/g) and violaxanthin and its cis isomers (38.1 microg/g).