1.  Title: Quantitative analysis of DHEA and androsterone in female urine: investigating the effects of menstrual cycle, oral contraception and training on exercise-induced changes in young women. Author: Bayle ML; Enea C; Goetinck P; Lafay F; Boisseau N; Dugue B; Flament-Waton MM; Grenier-Loustalot MF Source: Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry. 2009 Feb;393(4):1315-25. Abstract: Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and its metabolite androsterone (A) are natural steroids secreted in high quantities in human body. To assess the influence of oral contraceptives, menstrual cycle phase, and also physical exercise (acute and chronic such as training) on these metabolites excretions, a collection of 28 female urine specimens was organized. A three-extraction-step method was developed, and the analyses were performed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry using deuterated 19-noretiocholanolone as the internal standard. Sample hydration state was found to be of great importance for kinetic studies, as it directly influenced the concentrations. No influence of menstrual cycle and training was found for androsterone and DHEA. However, oral contraceptive intake lowered DHEA excretion in urine and A seems to be slightly affected by exercise. Language: English Keywords: FRANCE | RESEARCH REPORT | CLINICAL RESEARCH | WOMEN | ATHLETES | MENSTRUAL CYCLE | ORAL CONTRACEPTIVES | FITNESS | DEHYDROEPIANDROSTERONE | ANALYSIS | LABORATORY EXAMINATIONS AND DIAGNOSES | PHYSIOLOGY | Developed Countries | Europe, Western | Europe | Research Methodology | Demographic Factors | Population | Population Characteristics | Menstruation | Reproduction | Contraceptive Methods | Contraception | Family Planning | Health | Androgens | Hormones | Endocrine System | Biology | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care Document Number: 330963 |
| 2. Peer Reviewed Title: Study on a novel copper-containing composite for contraception. Author: Li J; Suo J; Huang X; Jia L Source: Contraception. 2009 Jun;79(6):439-44. Abstract: BACKGROUND: The copper-containing intrauterine devices (Cu-IUDs) are being increasingly used worldwide as an effective contraception for family planning. To avoid abnormal bleeding, pain, partial and complete expulsion, which are associated with the burst release of cupric ions during the first few days, a novel cross-linked composite based on polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) that contained cupric ions, but not metallic copper, was developed by our research team. STUDY DESIGN: As a logical extension of our previous work, the corrosion products and release behavior of this composite after immersing in simulated body fluid (SBF) for 1 year were studied by X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS). RESULTS: No other new elements, such as P, Cl and Ca, appeared on the surface of the composite, and no Cu(2)O was formed after immersing in SBF for 1 year, indicating that the effectiveness of copper can be greatly improved. Furthermore, no significant change on time dependence was found for the release rates of cupric ions in the composite compared with that of metallic copper, suggesting the absent burst release of cupric ions in the composite. CONCLUSION: The present in vitro long-term data suggest that this novel copper-containing composite has potential as a substitute for conventional materials used in the manufacture of IUDs. Language: English Keywords: CHINA | RESEARCH REPORT | ANALYSIS | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | IUD, COPPER RELEASING | IUD COMPLICATIONS | TIME FACTORS | CONTRACEPTIVE MODE OF ACTION | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Economic Development | Economic Factors | IUD | Contraceptive Methods | Contraception | Family Planning | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population Document Number: 341102 |
| 3. Title: Formulation and Performance Characterization of Radio-Sterilized "Progestin-Only" Microparticles Intended for Contraception. Author: Puthli S; Vavia P Source: AAPS PharmSciTech. 2009 Apr 21; Abstract: The aim of this study was to formulate and characterize a microparticulate system of progestin-only contraceptive. Another objective was to evaluate the effect of gamma radio-sterilization on in vitro and in vivo drug release characteristics. Levonorgestrel (LNG) microspheres were fabricated using poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) by a novel solvent evaporation technique. The formulation was optimized for drug/polymer ratio, emulsifier concentration, and process variables like speed of agitation and evaporation method. The drug to polymer ratio of 1:5 gave the optimum encapsulation efficiency. Speed of agitation influenced the spherical shape of the microparticles, lower speeds yielding less spherical particles. The speed did not have a significant influence on the drug payloads. A combination of stabilizers viz. methyl cellulose and poly vinyl alcohol with in-water solvent evaporation technique yielded microparticles without any free drug crystals on the surface. This aspect significantly eliminated the in vitro dissolution "burst effect". The residual solvent content was well within the regulatory limits. The microparticles passed the test for sterility and absence of pyrogens. In vitro dissolution conducted on the product before and after gamma radiation sterilization at 2.5 Mrad indicated no significant difference in the drug release patterns. The drug release followed zero-order kinetics in both static and agitation conditions of dissolution testing. The in vivo studies conducted in rabbits exhibited LNG release up to 1 month duration with drug levels maintained within the effective therapeutic window. Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | EVALUATION | WOMEN | CONTRACEPTIVE AGENTS, PROGESTIN | ANALYSIS | FEMALE STERILIZATION | LEVONORGESTREL | LABORATORY PROCEDURES | INJECTABLES | Asia, Southern | Asia | Developing Countries | Demographic Factors | Population | Contraceptive Agents, Female | Contraceptive Agents | Contraception | Family Planning | Research Methodology | Sterilization, Sexual | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Contraceptive Methods Document Number: 331124 |
| 4. Title: IDM release behavior and surface characteristics of the novel Cu/IDM/LDPE nanocomposite for intrauterine device. Author: Yang Z; Xie C; Xiang H; Feng J; Xia X; Cai S Source: Colloids and Surfaces. B, Biointerfaces. 2009 Mar 1;69(2):276-80. Abstract: Copper/indomethacin/low-density polyethylene (Cu/IDM/LDPE) nanocomposite was prepared as a novel material for intra-uterine device (IUD). IDM release profile of the nanocomposite was investigated by using spectrophotometer. The results show that IDM release rate of Cu/IDM/LDPE nanocomposite is higher in simulated uterine solution than that in methanol, confirming that the release process of IDM is dominated mainly by pore diffusion. The decrease in copper particle size and the increase in copper mass content all accelerate IDM release, indicating that IDM release rate can be adjusted by changing copper loading or copper particle size. The surface of the incubated nanocomposite was characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis. A few deposits composed of P, Cl, Ca, Cu and O were observed on the nanocomposite surface, which may be related to the presence of IDM particles with large particle size. Language: English Keywords: CHINA | RESEARCH REPORT | CLINICAL RESEARCH | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | IUD, COPPER RELEASING | ANALYSIS | TIME FACTORS | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Economic Development | Economic Factors | IUD | Contraceptive Methods | Contraception | Family Planning | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population Document Number: 341134 |
| 5. Title: Matrix metalloproteinase-2 promoter polymorphism is associated with breast cancer in a Mexican population. Author: Delgado-Enciso I; Cepeda-Lopez FR; Monrroy-Guizar EA; Bautista-Lam JR; Andrade-Soto Source: Gynecologic and Obstetric Investigation. 2008 Jan;65(1):68-72. Abstract: Matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) is an enzyme with proteolytic activity on matrix proteins, particularly basement membrane constituents. A single nucleotide polymorphism C > T transition at -1306 displayed a strong association with several cancers. Our study investigated whether or not the MMP-2 -1306C > T polymorphism contributed to the development of breast cancer (BC) in a Mexican population. 90 patients with BC and 96 control subjects were analyzed to detect MMP-2 -1306C > T polymorphism. The frequency of MMP-2 CC genotype was significantly higher in BC patients when compared with the control group (OR 2.15; 95% CI 1.1-4.1). MMP-2 CC genotype frequency was more pronounced in younger subjects (Language: English Keywords: MEXICO | RESEARCH REPORT | CASE CONTROL STUDIES | WOMEN | BREAST CANCER | HISTOLOGY | ENZYMES | GENETICS | ANALYSIS | AGE FACTORS | North America | Americas | Developing Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | Demographic Factors | Population | Cancer | Neoplasms | Diseases | Biology | Enzymes and Enzyme Inhibitors | Physiology | Population Characteristics Document Number: 323128 |
| 6. Title: The in vitro anti-plasmodial and in vivo anti-malarial efficacy of combinations of some medicinal plants used traditionally for treatment of malaria by the Meru community in Kenya. Author: Gathirwa JW; Rukunga GM; Njagi EN; Omar SA; Mwitari PG Source: Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 2008 Jan 17;115(2):223-231. Abstract: The use of herbal drugs as combinations has existed for centuries in several cultural systems. However, the safety and efficacy of such combinations have not been validated. In this study, the toxicity, anti-plasmodial and antimalarial efficacy of several herbal drug combinations were investigated. Lannea schweinfurthii, Turraea robusta and Sclerocarya birrea, used by traditional health practitioners in Meru community, were tested for in vitro anti-plasmodial and in vivo anti-malarial activity singly against Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium berghei, respectively. Methanolic extract of Turraea robusta was the most active against Plasmodium falciparum D6 strain. Aqueous extracts of Lannea schweinfurthii had the highest anti-plamodial activity followed by Turraea robusta and Sclerocarya birrea. D6 was more sensitive to the plant extracts than W2 strain. Lannea schweinfurthii extracts had the highest anti-malarial activity in mice followed by Turraea robusta and Sclerocarya birrea with the methanol extracts being more active than aqueous ones. Combinations of aqueous extracts of the three plants and two others (Boscia salicifolia and Rhus natalensis) previously shown to exhibit anti-plasmodial and anti-malarial activity singly were tested in mice. Marked synergy and additive interactions were observed when combinations of the drugs were assayed in vitro. Different combinations of Turraea robusta and Lannea schweinfurthii exhibited good in vitro synergistic interactions. Combinations of Boscia salicifolia and Sclerocarya birrea; Rhus natalensis and Turraea robusta; Rhus natalensis and Boscia salicifolia; Turraea robusta and Sclerocarya birrea; and Lannea schweinfurthii and Boscia salicifolia exhibited high malaria parasite suppression (chemo-suppression greater than 90%) in vivo when tested in mice. The findings are a preliminary demonstration of the usefulness of combining several plants in herbal drugs, as a normal practice of traditional health practitioners. (author's) Language: English Keywords: KENYA | RESEARCH REPORT | EVALUATION | ETHNIC GROUPS | ANTIMALARIAL DRUGS | MEDICINAL PLANTS | TRADITIONAL HEALTH PRACTICES | PARASITE CONTROL | TOXICITY | SAFETY | IN VITRO | ANALYSIS | Developing Countries | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Cultural Background | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Malaria | Parasitic Diseases | Diseases | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Culture | Sociocultural Factors | Public Health | Physiology | Biology | Clinical Research | Research Methodology Document Number: 325606 |
| 7. Title: Study of the micro-structural properties of RISUG--a newly developed male contraceptive. Author: Kumar S; Roy S; Chaudhury K; Sen P; Guha SK Source: Journal of Biomedical Materials Research. Part B, Applied Biomaterials. 2008 Jul;86(1):154-61. Abstract: A new male contraceptive given the name RISUG (an acronym for reversible inhibition of sperm under guidance) and presently undergoing advanced clinical trials has been developed. When injected into the lumen of the vas deferens, its polyelectrolytic nature induces a surface charge imbalance on sperm membrane system leading to the leakage of enzymes essential for fertilization. Contact mode atomic force microscopy (AFM) has been used to analyze quantitatively the micro-structural properties of RISUG and its precipitate in various systems. Hydrolysis of the contraceptive gel resulted in the formation of pores of varying dimensions. RISUG being a highly charged molecule, as evident from zeta potential measurements, has a tendency to form a complex with ionic biomolecules present in the seminal plasma. This is supported by the experimental observations using AFM. This RISUG-biomolecule complex possibly acts as an ionic trap for spermatozoa passing through the vas deferens. Micro-structural properties of RISUG including amplitude (root mean square, peak-to-valley distance, skewness and kurtosis) and spatial roughness have been studied to understand its response to various physiological conditions. Significant alterations in the surface charge distribution of the sperm cell is observed on exposure to RISUG. Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | CLINICAL RESEARCH | MATHEMATICAL MODEL | MEN | ANALYSIS | MALE CONTRACEPTION | SPERMATOZOA | ENZYMES AND ENZYME INHIBITORS | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Research Methodology | Theoretical Models | Demographic Factors | Population | Contraception | Family Planning | Germ Cells | Genitalia | Urogenital System | Physiology | Biology Document Number: 329274 |
| 8. Title: Analysis of metallothionein, RCAS1 immunoreactivity regarding immune cell concentration in the endometrium and tubal mucosa in ectopic pregnancy during the course of tubal rupture. Author: Wicherek L; Galazka K; Lazar A Source: Gynecologic and Obstetric Investigation. 2008 Jan;65(1):52-61. Abstract: Tubal rupture seems to be linked to a disturbance in maternal immune response and trophoblast cell invasion. The immunomodulating activity of endometrial cells is necessary for the coexistence of activated immune cells and endometrial cells. RCAS1 and metallothionein (MT) participate in this process. Tissue samples derived from fallopian tubes and endometrium were collected during one surgical procedure and divided into three groups: unruptured ectopic pregnancy (EP) without bleeding, unruptured EP with hemorrhage into the peritoneal cavity, and ruptured tubal pregnancy. Immunoreactivity of MT, RCAS1, CD56, CD3, CD69 and CD25 were assessed by immunohistochemical methods. The number of CD3+ and CD56+ cells as well as CD69 antigen immunoreactivity in ruptured tubal mucosa of EP were statistically significantly higher than those measured for unruptured EP without bleeding, while at the same time the number of CD56+ cells in endometrium was statistically significantly lower. The growth of immune cell numbers in tubal mucosa during tubal rupture was not associated with an adequate MT and RCAS1 level. Tubal perforation seems to be linked to a concentration of immune cells and a growth of their activity without an adequate increase of the level of proteins compensating for immune cell response. (author's) Language: English Keywords: POLAND | RESEARCH REPORT | PREGNANT WOMEN | PREGNANCY, ECTOPIC | TUBAL EFFECTS | ENDOMETRIUM | COMPLICATIONS | BLEEDING | ANTIGENS | ANALYSIS | IMMUNITY, CELLULAR | Europe, Central | Europe | Developing Countries | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Pregnancy Complications | Diseases | Fallopian Tubes | Genitalia, Female | Genitalia | Urogenital System | Physiology | Biology | Uterus | Signs and Symptoms | Immunologic Factors | Immunity | Immune System | Research Methodology Document Number: 323126 |
| 9. Title: Pharmacokinetics of quinine and its metabolites in pregnant Sudanese women with uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria. Author: Abdelrahim II; Adam I; Elghazali G; Gustafsson LL; Elbashir MI Source: Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics. 2007 Feb;32(1):15-19. Abstract: The study was conducted in New Halfa teaching hospital, eastern Sudan to investigate the pharmacokinetics of quinine in pregnant Sudanese women. Sixteen (eight pregnant and eight nonpregnant) Sudanese women infected with Plasmodium falciparum malaria were given a single dose of quinine hydrochloride (10 mg/kg body weight) as intravenous infusion over 2 h. The women were treated with intramuscular artemether. Plasma was collected before quinine administration and up to 72 h thereafter. These were analysed for quinine and its metabolites, 3-hydroxyquinine, (10R)-10,11-dihydroxyquinine and (10S)-10,11-dihydroxyquinine using high-performance liquid chromatography. The two groups were well matched in their basic characteristics. There was no significant difference in the mean maximum plasma concentration attained (Cmax), the mean time at which Cmax was attained, the elimination half-life (t1/2) and the total area under the plasma concentration vs. time curve (AUC) of quinine and its metabolites between the pregnant in non-pregnant women. There was no significant difference in quinine metabolism between pregnant and nonpregnant women and there is no need to adjust quinine dose when treating pregnant women. (author's) Language: English Keywords: SUDAN | RESEARCH REPORT | CLINICAL RESEARCH | CASE CONTROL STUDIES | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | PREGNANT WOMEN | DRUGS | MALARIA | PREGNANCY COMPLICATIONS | ADMINISTRATION AND DOSAGE | ANALYSIS | METABOLIC EFFECTS | Developing Countries | Africa, North | Africa | Research Methodology | Studies | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Parasitic Diseases | Diseases | Physiology | Biology Document Number: 317684 |
| 10. Peer Reviewed Title: Docosahexaenoic and arachidonic acid concentrations in human breast milk worldwide. Author: Brenna JT; Varamini B; Jensen RG; Diersen-Schade DA; Boettcher JA Source: American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2007 Jun;85(6):1457-1464. Abstract: Concentrations of the long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs) docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6n-3) and arachidonic acid (AA, 20:4n-6) in human breast milk are important indicators of infant formula DHA and AA concentrations, and recent evidence suggests that neural maturation of breastfed infants is linked to breast-milk LCPUFA concentrations. We report a descriptive meta-analysis that considered 106 studies of human breast milk culled to include only studies that used modern analysis methods capable of making accurate estimates of fatty acid (FA) profiles and criteria related to the completeness of reporting. The final analysis included 65 studies of 2474 women. The mean (±SD) concentration of DHA in breast milk (by wt) is 0.32 ± 0.22% (range: 0.06-1.4%) and that of AA is 0.47 ± 0.13% (range: 0.24 -1.0%), which indicates that the DHA concentration in breast milk is lower than and more variable than that of AA. The highest DHA concentrations were primarily in coastal populations and were associated with marine food consumption. The correlation between breast-milk DHA and AA concentrations was significant but low (r = 0.25, P = 0.02), which indicates that the mean ratio of DHA to AA in regional breast milk varies widely. This comprehensive analysis of breast-milk DHA and AA indicates a broad range of these nutrients worldwide and serves as a guide for infant feeding. (author's) Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | DEVELOPED COUNTRIES | LITERATURE REVIEW | MOTHERS | INFANT | LACTATION | LIPIDS | DIET | HUMAN MILK | INFANT NUTRITION | ANALYSIS | Parents | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Maternal Physiology | Physiology | Biology | Nutrition | Health | Research Methodology Document Number: 317459 |
| 11. Peer Reviewed Title: Decline and loss of birth seasonality in Spain: analysis of 33 421 731 births over 60 years. Author: Cancho-Candela R; Andres-de Llano JM; Ardura-Fernandez J Source: Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health. 2007 Aug;61(8):713-718. Abstract: Several seasonal variations have been found in birth rates in different countries at different periods. The characteristics of the rhythmic patterns vary according to geographical location and chronological changes. This study presents data on spanish birth seasonality over six decades. A time series composed of 33 421 731 births in Spain in the period 1941-2000 was analysed. The series comes from the National Institute of Statistics and was processed according to the following norms: (1) normalisation of the duration of months and years; (2) clinical analysis of temporal series (isolation of seasonal component); (3) Fourier's spectral analysis; and (4) cosinor analysis (adjustment to the cosine curve of two harmonics). Significant seasonal rhythm was found in the set of births, both for a 12-month period and a 6-month period. The rhythm shows bimodal morphology, with a pronounced birth peak in April and a smaller one in September. These peaks correspond to July and December conceptions, respectively. The major birth peak shifted to March-May between the 1940s and the 1980s. Birth rhythm changed after the 1960s, with a decrease in amplitude and later loss of seasonality in the 1990s. In Spain, seasonal birth rhythm shows a decline from 1970, and, finally, lack of birth seasonality in 1991-2000. This trend is similar to other European countries, although Spain shows a more intense loss of seasonality. (author's) Language: English Keywords: SPAIN | RESEARCH REPORT | ANALYSIS | POPULATION | SEASONAL VARIATION | BIRTH RATE | FERTILITY DECLINE | GEOGRAPHIC FACTORS | TIME FACTORS | ENVIRONMENT | Europe, Southwestern | Europe | Developed Countries | Research Methodology | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Fertility Measurements | Fertility | Fertility Changes Document Number: 318616 |
12.  Title: Fluoride concentrations in typical Brazilian foods and in infant foods. Author: Casarin RC; Fernandes DR; Lima-Arsati YB; Cury JA Source: Revista de Saude Publica / Journal of Public Health. 2007 Aug;41(4):549-556. Abstract: The objective was to determine fluoride concentrations in the typical Brazilian meal (rice with beans) and in processed infant foods, and to estimate their contribution towards dental fluorosis. The foods were purchased at supermarkets in the cities of Piracicaba and Campinas, Southeastern Brazil. The processed infant foods were bought in 2001 and the rice and beans in 2003, and they were analyzed immediately. Three brands of rice, three brands of beans and 36 samples of infant foods were analyzed, divided into five groups: ready-to-eat, porridges, formulated foods, powdered milk and others. For the rice and beans, fluoride concentrations were determined in the raw grains and after they were cooked with fluoridated (0.7 ppm) or distilled water. All the fluoride analyses were performed using a specific electrode. A dose of 0.07 mg/kg/day was considered to be the upper limit of fluoride exposure in terms of fluorosis risks. The fluoride concentrations found in the grains of rice and beans were low. However, they increased 100 to 200-fold after cooking in fluoridated water. Even so, they were lower than what is found in some processed foods. A meal of rice and beans prepared with fluoridated water would be responsible for 29% of the threshold dose for fluoride intake in terms of acceptable fluorosis; the contribution from some processed foods reaches 45%. The typical Brazilian food, even when prepared with fluoridated water, is safer in terms of the risk of dental fluorosis than are some processed infant foods. (author's) Language: English Keywords: BRAZIL | RESEARCH REPORT | EVALUATION | INFANT | ANALYSIS | VITAMINS AND MINERALS | DENTAL HEALTH | DIET | WATER SUPPLY | South America, Eastern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Research Methodology | Physiology | Biology | Health | Nutrition | Natural Resources | Environment Document Number: 319764 |
| 13. Peer Reviewed Title: An insight into immunogenic salivary proteins of Anopheles gambiae in African children. Author: Cornelie S; Remoue F; Doucoure S; Ndiaye T Source: Malaria Journal. 2007 Jun 5;6:75. Abstract: During blood feeding, the mosquito injects saliva into the vertebrate host. This saliva contains bioactive components which may play a role in pathogen transmission and in host-vector relationships by inducing an immune response in the vertebrate host. The evaluation of human immune responses to arthropod bites might also represent a research direction for assessing individual exposure to the bite of a malaria vector. The present study examined the antibody (Ab) IgG response during the season of exposure to Anopheles gambiae bites in young children living in a malaria endemic area. Immunoblots were performed with An. gambiae saliva to detect anti-saliva Ab bands and the evolution of immunogenic bands at the peak of, and following, the transmission period. The results showed that anti-Anopheles Ab was directed against a limited number of salivary proteins (175, 115, 72 and 30 kDa bands). Specific IgG responses to mosquito salivary proteins were variable among exposed individuals; nevertheless, two major bands (175 and 72 kDa) were observed in all immune-responder children. Analysis of the intensity of immunogenic bands revealed that IgG levels against the 175 kDa band were significantly higher during the peak period compared to the end period malaria transmission. This preliminary work supports the potential of using anti-saliva immune responses as a measure of exposure to Anopheles bites. The use of immunoblots coupled with evaluation of band intensity could be an adequate tool for distinguishing immunogenic salivary proteins as candidate markers of bite exposure. Furthermore, this study may open the way to design new epidemiological tools for evaluating the risk of malaria exposure. (author's) Language: English Keywords: AFRICA | AFRICA, SUB SAHARAN | AFRICA, NORTH | RESEARCH REPORT | ANALYSIS | CHILDREN | INSECTS | PARASITES | IMMUNOLOGIC FACTORS | PROTEINS | LABORATORY EXAMINATIONS AND DIAGNOSES | EPIDEMIOLOGY | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Disease Transmission Control | Prevention and Control | Diseases | Biology | Immunity | Immune System | Physiology | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Public Health Document Number: 317556 |
| 14. Title: Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of a transdermal contraceptive patch and an oral contraceptive. Author: Devineni D; Skee D; Vaccaro N; Massarella J; Janssens L Source: Journal of Clinical Pharmacology. 2007;47:497-509. Abstract: This open-label, randomized, 2-way crossover study characterized the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of a transdermal contraceptive patch and a norgestimate-containing oral contraceptive. Healthy women (n = 34) applied a patch once weekly for 3 consecutive weeks during each of 2 cycles and received an oral contraceptive for 21 consecutive days during each of 2 cycles. Plasma concentrations of norelgestromin and ethinyl estradiol peaked and waned after daily oral contraceptive administration, whereas they rose and reached steady-state levels after first patch application. Norelgestromin exposure was similar; ethinyl estradiol exposure was higher for the patch than oral contraceptive. Hepatic estrogenic activity, assessed by hepatic globulin synthesis, was similar for corticosteroid-binding globulin and corticosteroid-binding globulin-binding capacity and higher for sex hormone-binding globulin for the patch versus oral contraceptive. The clinical significance of the differences in pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles between the patch and oral contraceptive is not fully known. No serious adverse events or discontinuations due to adverse events were recorded. (author's) Language: English Keywords: NEW JERSEY | RESEARCH REPORT | CLINICAL RESEARCH | COMPARATIVE STUDIES | WOMEN | CONTRACEPTIVE AGENTS | ORAL CONTRACEPTIVES | NORGESTIMATE | ADMINISTRATION AND DOSAGE | ETHINYL ESTRADIOL | ANALYSIS | United States of America | North America | Americas | Developed Countries | Research Methodology | Studies | Demographic Factors | Population | Contraception | Family Planning | Contraceptive Methods | Contraceptive Agents, Progestin | Contraceptive Agents, Female | Drugs | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Contraceptive Agents, Estrogen Document Number: 317683 |
| 15. Title: The future of AIDS in Africa: Lessons from two scenario projects. Author: Fourie P Source: African Journal of AIDS Research. 2007 Aug;6(2):97-107. Abstract: Scenario planning or futures studies have their origin in military planning, but have also been used with great success in the private sector, most notably in the energy industry. UNAIDS and the South African financial services group Metropolitan each recently published a set of scenarios regarding the future impact of HIV/AIDS in Africa and South Africa, respectively. This article reviews the methodologies and outcomes of those two studies, and highlights the many lessons to be gleaned for HIV-related health planning and policy-making in general. This is the first time that a comparative study has been done on scenario planning that refers to HIV in particular, and the findings may inspire the conceptualisation of futures studies elsewhere. (author's) Language: English Keywords: AFRICA, SUB SAHARAN | SOUTH AFRICA | RESEARCH REPORT | COMPARATIVE STUDIES | HIV | AIDS | IMPACT | RESEARCH METHODOLOGY | EVALUATION | ANALYSIS | HEALTH AND WELFARE PLANNING | POLICY DEVELOPMENT | Developing Countries | Africa | Africa, Southern | Studies | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Communication | Social Planning | Economic Factors | Planning | Organization and Administration Document Number: 313863 |
| 16. Peer Reviewed Title: Levonorgestrel pharmacokinetics in plasma and milk of lactating women who take 1.5 mg for emergency contraception. Author: Gainer E; Massai R; Lillo S; Reyes V; Forcelledo ML Source: Human Reproduction. 2007 Jun;22(6):1578-1584. Abstract: Progestin-only methods are among the contraceptive options available for breastfeeding women, however the doses of progestin used in emergency contraception (EC) have not been evaluated in nursing mothers. We therefore investigated the pharmacokinetics of 1.5 mg levonorgestrel (LNG) in lactating women. Twelve healthy exclusively breastfeeding volunteers received 1.5 mg LNG. Women refrained from nursing for 72 h after dosing and fed their infants with milk frozen beforehand. Serial blood and milk samples were collected for 120 h and assayed for LNG and sex hormone binding globulin. LNG concentrations peaked in plasma and in milk 1-4 h and 2-4 h after dosing, respectively. Concentrations in milk (M) paralleled those in plasma (P) but were consistently lower (mean M:P ratio 0.28). Estimated infant exposure to LNG is 1.6 mg on the day of dosing (1 mg in the first 8 h), 0.3 mg on the second day and 0.2 mg on the third day. Nursing mothers may need EC. These results suggest that to limit infant exposure to the period of maximum LNG excretion in milk, mothers should discontinue nursing for at least 8 h, but not more than 24 h, after EC. (author's) Language: English Keywords: CHILE | RESEARCH REPORT | ANALYSIS | MOTHERS | INFANT | BREASTFEEDING | HUMAN MILK | LACTATION | EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION | LEVONORGESTREL | Developing Countries | South America, Southern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Research Methodology | Parents | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Infant Nutrition | Nutrition | Health | Maternal Physiology | Physiology | Biology | Contraception | Family Planning | Contraceptive Agents, Progestin | Contraceptive Agents, Female | Contraceptive Agents Document Number: 317099 |
| 17. Title: In search of cyclooxygenase inhibitors, anti-Mycobacterium tuberculosis and anti-malarial drugs from Thai flora and microbes. Author: Gale GA; Kirtikara K; Pittayakhajonwut P; Sivichai S; Thebtaranonth Y Source: Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 2007 Sep;115(3):307-351. Abstract: Malaria continues to be a major infectious disease of the developing world and the problem is compounded not only by the emergence of drug resistant strains but also from a lack of a vaccine. The situation for tuberculosis (TB) infection is equally problematic. Once considered a "treatable" disease for which eradication was predicted, TB has re-emerged as highly lethal, multi-drug resistant strains after the outbreak of AIDS. Worldwide, the disease causes millions of deaths annually. Similarly, treatments for chronic inflammatory diseases such as arthritis have been impeded due to the potentially lethal side effects of the new and widely prescribed non-steroidal anti-inflammatory compounds. Thais have utilized bioresources from plants and some microorganisms for medicine for thousands of years. Because of the need for new drugs to fight malaria and TB, with radically different chemical structures and mode of actions other than existing drugs, efforts have been directed towards searching for new drugs from bioresources. This is also true for anti-inflammatories. Although Thailand is considered species-rich, only a small number of potential bioresources has been investigated. This article briefly describes the pathogenesis of 2 infectious diseases, malaria and TB, and modern medicines employed in chemotherapy. Diversities of Thai flora and fungi and their chemical constituents with antagonistic properties against these 2 diseases are described in detail. Similarly, anti-inflammatory compounds, mostly cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitors, are also described herein to demonstrate the potential of Thai bioresources to provide a wide array of compounds for treatment of diseases of a different nature. (author's) Language: English Keywords: THAILAND | RESEARCH REPORT | ANALYSIS | POPULATION AT RISK | MALARIA | ANTIMALARIAL DRUGS | TUBERCULOSIS | MEDICINAL PLANTS | DRUG RESISTANCE | RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT | Asia, Southeastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Parasitic Diseases | Diseases | Infections | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Technology | Economic Factors Document Number: 321430 |
| 18. Title: Hepatotoxicity in HIV-infected children and adolescents on antiretroviral therapy. Author: Gil AC; Lorenzetti R; Mendes GB; Morcillo AM; Toro AA; da Silva MT Source: Sao Paulo Medical Journal. 2007 Jul 5;125(4):205-209. Abstract: Adverse drug reactions are a significant problem in patients on antiretroviral therapy (ART). We determined liver enzyme elevation frequencies in HIV-infected children and adolescents receiving ART, and their association with risk factors. A cross-sectional study was used at the Pediatrics Immunodeficiency Division, University Hospital, Universidade Estadual de Campinas. Medical records of 152 children and adolescents (54.6% male; median age 7.48 years) were analyzed, with a mean of 2.6 liver enzyme determinations per patient. Clinically, patients were classified in categories N (6), A (29), B (78) and C (39). Serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase were evaluated. Hepatotoxicity was scored as grade 1 (1.1-4.9 times upper limit of normality, ULN), grade 2 (5.0-9.9 times ULN), grade 3 (10.0-15.0 times ULN) and grade 4 (greater than 15.0 times ULN). To assess hepatotoxicity risk factors, odds ratios (OR) and adjusted odds ratios (aOR) for age, gender, TCD4+ cell count, viral load and medication usage were calculated. We observed grade 1 hepatotoxicity in 19.7 % (30/152) patients. No cases of grade 2, 3 or 4 were detected. There was a significant association between hepatotoxicity and use of sulfonamides (OR, 3.61; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.50-8.70; aOR, 3.58; 95% CI, 1.44-8.85) and antituberculous agents (OR, 9.23; 95% CI, 1.60-53.08; aOR, 9.05; 95% CI, 1.48-55.25). No toxicity was associated with ART. One fifth of patients experienced mild hepatotoxicity, attributed to antituberculous agents and sulfonamides. Our results suggest that ART was well tolerated. (author's) Language: English Keywords: BRAZIL | RESEARCH REPORT | CROSS SECTIONAL ANALYSIS | CHILD | ADOLESCENTS | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | ENZYMES | ANALYSIS | RISK FACTORS | ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY | TOXICITY | South America, Eastern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Persons Living With HIV/AIDS | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Enzymes and Enzyme Inhibitors | Physiology | Biology | HIV Document Number: 324107 |
| 19. Title: A semi-automated 96-well plate method for the simultaneous determination of oral contraceptives concentrations in human plasma using ultra performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry. Author: Licea-Perez H; Wang S; Bowen CL; Yang E Source: Journal of Chromatography B. 2007 Jun;852(1-2):69-76. Abstract: Two semi-automated, relatively high throughput methods using ultra performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) were developed for the simultaneous determination of ethinyl estradiol (EE) in combination with either 19-norethindrone (NE) or levonorgestrel (LN) in human plasma. Using 300 µL plasma, the methods were validated over the concentration ranges of 0.01-2 ng/mL and 0.1-20 ng/mL for EE and NE (or LN), respectively. The existing methods for the determination of the oral contraceptives in human plasma require large volumes of plasma (>/= 500µL), and sample extraction is labor-intensive. The LC run time is at least 6 min, enabling analysis of only about 100 samples a day. In the present work the throughput was greatly improved by employing a semi-automated sample preparation process involving liquid-liquid extraction and derivatization with dansyl chloride followed by UPLC separation on a small particle size column achieving a run time of 2.7 min. The validation and actual sample analysis results show that both methods are rugged, precise, accurate, and well suitable to support pharmacokinetic studies where approximately 300 samples can be extracted and analyzed in a day. (author's) Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | METHODOLOGICAL STUDIES | EVALUATION RESEARCH | CLINICAL RESEARCH | WOMEN | ORAL CONTRACEPTIVES, COMBINED | LABORATORY EXAMINATIONS AND DIAGNOSES | LABORATORY PROCEDURES | BLOOD | ANALYSIS | ETHINYL ESTRADIOL | TIME FACTORS | LEVONORGESTREL | NORETHINDRONE | PRODUCTIVITY | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Evaluation Methodology | Evaluation | Research Methodology | Demographic Factors | Population | Oral Contraceptives | Contraceptive Methods | Contraception | Family Planning | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Hemic System | Physiology | Biology | Contraceptive Agents, Estrogen | Contraceptive Agents, Female | Contraceptive Agents | Population Dynamics | Contraceptive Agents, Progestin | Economic Development | Economic Factors Document Number: 320672 |
| 20. Title: Paternity after vasectomy with two previous semen analyses without spermatozoa. Author: Lucon M; Lucon AM; Pasqualoto FF; Srougi M Source: Sao Paulo Medical Journal. 2007 Mar;125(2):122-123. Abstract: The risk of paternity after vasectomy is rare but still exists. Overall failure to achieve sterility after vasectomy occurs in 0.2 to 5.3% of patients due to technical failure or recanalization. The objective of this report was to describe a rare but notable case of proven paternity in which the semen analyses had not given evidence of spermatozoa. A 44-year-old vasectomized man whose semen analyses had shown azoospermia became a father four years after sterilization. Blood sample DNA analysis on the child and husband proved biological paternity. Vasectomy may fail in the long run even without spermatozoa in semen analysis. The patient must be aware of this possibility. (author's) Language: English Keywords: BRAZIL | RESEARCH REPORT | CASE STUDIES | CLINICAL RESEARCH | MEN | SEMEN | ANALYSIS | VASECTOMY | CONTRACEPTIVE EFFECTIVENESS | South America, Eastern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | Demographic Factors | Population | Seminal Vesicles | Genitalia, Male | Genitalia | Urogenital System | Physiology | Biology | Male Sterilization | Sterilization, Sexual | Family Planning | Contraception Document Number: 319771 |
| 21. Peer Reviewed Title: Purification of antimicrobial factors from human cervical mucus. Author: Ming L; Xiaoling P; Yan L; Lili W; Qi W Source: Human Reproduction. 2007 Jul;22(7):1810-1815. Abstract: The aim of this study was to separate bactericidal proteins from healthy female cervical mucus. Cervical mucus was collected and dissolved in 1% acetic acid. The antimicrobial activity of acidsoluble extracts was detected by gel overlay assay against Escherichia coli ATCC 43827. The extracts showed considerable amount of antibacterial activity with a clearly visible band. The bactericidal band was purified by reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatography and the antibacterial activity of the eluate was examined using radial diffusion assay. Two antimicrobial proteins were purified and were further characterized by Tricine sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, N-terminal sequencing and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry. The proteins were identified as high-mobility group nucleosomal-binding domain 2 (HMG N2) and secretory leukocyte peptidase inhibitor (SLPI). SLPI is an antimicrobial peptide already known in the cervical mucus while HMG N2 in the cervical mucus had not been previously reported. The expression of HMG N2 mRNA was detected in Hela cells and cervical epithelial cells by RT-PCR. Slit hybridization showed abundant amounts of the HMG N2 protein in the cervical mucus. These results suggest that the expression of HMG N2 and SLPI in the healthy female cervical mucus may be relevant to their immune surveillance and defense against potential pathogens in human reproductive system. (author's) Language: English Keywords: CHINA | RESEARCH REPORT | ANALYSIS | WOMEN | CERVICAL MUCUS | PROTEINS | IMMUNOLOGIC FACTORS | Developing Countries | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Research Methodology | Demographic Factors | Population | Cervix | Uterus | Genitalia, Female | Genitalia | Urogenital System | Physiology | Biology | Immunity | Immune System Document Number: 317968 |
| 22. Title: [The use of sweeteners in pregnancy: an analysis of products available in Brazil] O uso de adocantes na gravidez: uma analise dos produtos disponiveis no Brasil. Author: Torloni MR; Nakamura MU; Megale A; Sanchez VH; Mano C Source: Revista Brasileira de Ginecologia e Obstetricia. 2007 May;29(5):267-275. Abstract: Sweeteners are frequently used by women of reproductive age. This is a narrative review about the sweeteners currently sold in the Brazilian commerce. There is a few information on the use of saccharin and cyclamates in pregnancy and their effects on the fetus. Due to the limited information available and their carcinogenic potential in animal species, saccharin and cyclamates should be avoided during pregnancy (risk C). Aspartame has been extensively studied in animals and it is considered safe for use during pregnancy (risk B), except by women homozygous for phenylketonuria (risk C). Sucralose and acessulfame-K are not toxic, carcinogenic or mutagenic in animals, but there are no controlled studies in humans. However, since these two sweeteners are not metabolized, it is unlikely that their use during pregnancy could be harmful (risk B). Stevia, a substance extracted from a native Brazilian plant, is innocuous in animal pregnancies, but there are no controlled studies in humans (risk B). Body agents found in the composition of artificial sweeteners (mannitol, sorbitol, xylitol, erithrol, lactilol, isomalt, maltilol, lactose, fructose, maltodextrin, dextrin, and inverted sugar) are substances generally regarded as safe for human consumption. In conclusion, according to the currently available evidence, aspartame, sucralose, acessulfame-K and stevia can be safely used during pregnancy. Language: Portuguese Keywords: BRAZIL | LITERATURE REVIEW | CLINICAL RESEARCH | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | PREGNANT WOMEN | LABORATORY ANIMALS | FOOD AND BEVERAGE | SAFETY | CANCER | PREGNANCY COMPLICATIONS | CHROMOSOME ABNORMALITIES | METABOLIC EFFECTS | ANALYSIS | PREGNANCY | Developing Countries | South America, Eastern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Research Methodology | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Nutrition | Health | Public Health | Neoplasms | Diseases | Neonatal Diseases and Abnormalities | Physiology | Biology | Reproduction Document Number: 324632 |
| 23. Peer Reviewed Title: Correlation of serum levels of macrophage migration inhibitory factor with disease severity and clinical outcome in dengue patients. Author: Chen LC; Lei HY; Liu CC; Shiesh SC; Chen SH Source: American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene. 2006 Jan;74(1):142-147. Abstract: Dengue virus infection can cause mild dengue fever (DF) or severe dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) and dengue shock syndrome (DSS). Cytokines are believed to be involved in the pathogenesis of dengue infection. However, the role of the pro-inflammatory cytokine macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) in dengue infection is unclear. In this study, serum levels of MIF in adult dengue patients with different disease severity and clinical outcome were determined and compared with the levels of other cytokines, tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-a), interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-10, and interferon gamma (IFN-a), in the same patients. Serum levels of MIF, IL-6, and IL-10, but not IFN-a or TNF-a, were higher in all DHF patients who died than in DHF survivors and DF patients. We conclude that in addition to IL-6 and IL-10, elevated levels of serum MIF are a potential predictor of disease severity and clinical outcome in dengue patients. (author's) Language: English Keywords: TAIWAN | RESEARCH REPORT | CLIENTS | LABORATORY PROCEDURES | DENGUE | SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS | FEVER | BLEEDING | SERUM PROTEIN EFFECTS | ANALYSIS | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developed Countries | Program Activities | Programs | Organization and Administration | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Body Temperature | Physiology | Biology | Hematological Effects | Hemic System | Research Methodology Document Number: 296701 |
| 24. Title: Gels as vaginal drug delivery systems. Author: das Neves J; Bahia MF Source: International Journal of Pharmaceutics. 2006 Aug 2;318(1-2):1-14. Abstract: The vagina has been used as a mucosal drug delivery route for a long time. Its single characteristics can be either limitative or advantageous when drug delivery is considered. Gels are semi-solid, three-dimensional, polymeric matrices comprising small amounts of solid, dispersed in relatively large amounts of liquid, yet possessing more solid-like character. These systems have been used and are receiving a great deal of interest as vaginal drug delivery systems. Gels are versatile and have been used as delivery systems for microbicides, contraceptives, labour inducers, and other substances. Although somewhat neglected in clinical studies, pharmaceutical characterization of vaginal gels is an important step in order to optimize safety, efficacy and acceptability. Indeed, the simple formulation of a gel can lead to different performances of systems containing the same amount of active substances. Therefore, this paper discusses and summarizes current use and research of vaginal drug delivery systems based in gels. (author's) Language: English Keywords: PORTUGAL | RECOMMENDATIONS | LITERATURE REVIEW | CLINICAL RESEARCH | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | VAGINAL GEL | DRUGS | ANALYSIS | TOXICITY | Developed Countries | Europe, Southwestern | Europe | Research Methodology | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Vaginal Spermicides | Contraceptive Methods | Contraception | Family Planning | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Physiology | Biology Document Number: 306019 |
| 25. Title: National resource flows for HIV / AIDS in Kenya, Rwanda, and Zambia: a comparative analysis. Author: De S; Dmytraczenko T Source: Bethesda, Maryland, Abt Associates, Partners for Health Reform Plus [PHRplus], 2006 Jun. [77] p. (USAID Contract No. HRN-C-00-00-00019-00USAID Development Experience Clearinghouse Doc ID / Order No. PN-ADH-207) Abstract: An effective fight against HIV/AIDS necessitates a comprehensive understanding of existing financing of national HIV/AIDS services (including public, private, and donor components). Yet many countries most affected by the epidemic lack data, which increases the risk of inappropriate allocation of funds, and suspension of donor funding. National Health Accounts (NHA) is a policy tool for tracking national spending on health care. The NHA HIV/AIDS subaccounts framework allows for more detailed examinations of spending on HIV/AIDS, which can inform national HIV/AIDS strategic plans and then measure progress toward planned goals. With the NHA tool rapidly becoming institutionalized in many countries that also receive major international HIV/AIDS grants, the subaccount framework can be used for the financial monitoring that these grants require. This paper reports on subaccount findings for 2002 from Kenya, Rwanda, and Zambia, all of which face generalized HIV/AIDS epidemics. Estimates show that their resource envelopes for HIV/AIDS were quite sizeable even prior to the surge in donor funds for treatment. Expenditures for HIV/AIDS health care - in 2002, primarily treatment of opportunistic infections and programs for prevention and public health - represented approximately 1 percent of national gross domestic product (GDP) levels, this in countries where overall health care resources accounted for only 4-5 percent of the GDP. Although donor financing accounted for the largest share of resources (usually more than half), most of these funds were targeted to programmatic activities, leaving households to pay for at least half of all medical care services. Indeed, people living with HIV/AIDS paid 3-6 times more out-of-pocket for health services than did the general population. Perhaps reflective of the direction in which the response to HIV/AIDS is managed, fund flows in Rwanda are increasingly channeled through the nongovernmental sector. This raises questions about government stewardship of the fight against the epidemic. (author's) Language: English Keywords: KENYA | RWANDA | ZAMBIA | SUMMARY REPORT | COMPARATIVE STUDIES | ANALYSIS | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | CLIENTS | AIDS PREVENTION | HIV PREVENTION | FUNDS | MONITORING | EXPENDITURES | FEES | TREATMENT | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Africa, Central | Africa, Southern | Studies | Research Methodology | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Program Activities | Programs | Organization and Administration | AIDS | Financial Activities | Economic Factors | Evaluation | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health Document Number: 311530 |
| 26. Title: Skewed sex ratio and low aneuploidy in recurrent early missed abortion. Author: Halder A; Fauzdar A Source: Indian Journal of Medical Research. 2006 Jul;124(1):41-50. Abstract: Conventional cytogenetic studies have revealed more number of females in spontaneous abortion and it has been assumed that a large proportion of those were resulted from maternal contamination and overgrowth of maternal decidua in long term culture. In this study we have attempted to overcome difficulties of conventional cytogenetics by using meticulous tissue dissection and molecular methods onto uncultured chorionic villous tissue thus bypassing long term culture to find out true sex ratio and frequency as well as type of common aneuploidy in early missed abortions. Early missed abortion products (n=58) were collected from recurrent aborter in and around Lucknow, India, over a period of three years. All the cases were selected on the basis of ultrasonography diagnosis. Chorionic villous tissue was cleaned from maternal tissue and processed for conventional as well as molecular cytogenetic analysis. Conventional cytogenetics was successful in 15, of which 12 were females and 3 males. There were 3 cases of chromosomal abnormality, including one false. Interphase FISH with X, Y, 1, 9, 12, 16, 18 and 13/21 probes was carried out in all 58 cases. There were 43 females and 15 males. Four cases of chromosomal abnormality were detected by interphase FISH (6.9%). Comparative genomic hybridization was successful in 8 cases (6 females and 2 males). There was no aneuploidy; however, suspected gain and losses were seen in 4 cases. Our results suggested skewing of sex ratio (M : F, 1 : 2.9 ) and low aneuploidy rate, indicating that in early missed abortion from recurrent spontaneous abortion female outnumbers male. The various possibilities with literature support are presented that may serve as a template for future work. (author's) Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | COMPARATIVE STUDIES | PREGNANT WOMEN | CHROMOSOME ABNORMALITIES | CYTOLOGIC EFFECTS | ULTRASONICS | ANALYSIS | ABORTION, SPONTANEOUS | SEX RATIO | Asia, Southern | Asia | Developing Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Neonatal Diseases and Abnormalities | Diseases | Physiology | Biology | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Pregnancy Complications | Sex Distribution | Sex Factors Document Number: 310387 |
| 27. Title: Human rights in conflict resolution: the role of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in UN Peacemaking and Peacebuilding. Author: Hannum H Source: Human Rights Quarterly. 2006 Feb;28(1):1-85. Abstract: This study focuses on the UN work during actual conflicts, or periods of heightened tension, and during the short-term, post-conflict phase of peacekeeping and peacebuilding. It considers only tangentially techniques of conflict prevention or long-term peacebuilding operations (although it is clear that prevention, peacemaking, peacekeeping, and peacebuilding lie on a continuum rather than being clearly distinct from one another). This decision is guided, in part, by the widespread recognition that the promotion and protection of human rights is crucial in preventing the escalation of conflict into serious violence, as well as in establishing a basis for long-term stability and development. In addition, DPA is less likely to be involved in peacemaking or conflict resolution efforts when there are periods of relative calm before conflict ensues or when the goal is the consolidation of peace and democracy following the successful resolution of a conflict. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | SUMMARY REPORT | ANALYSIS | UN | HUMAN RIGHTS | WAR | INTERVENTIONS | Research Methodology | International Agencies | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 297125 |
| 28. Title: The environment and male fertility: recent research on emerging chemicals and semen quality. Author: Hauser R Source: Seminars in Reproductive Medicine. 2006;24(3):156-167. Abstract: Scientific and public concern about the potential risk of environmental chemicals to male reproductive health has been heightened by reports of downward trends in semen quality, as well as increased rates of developmental urogenital tract anomalies and testicular cancer. Of particular concern is whether some contemporary-use environmental chemicals alter semen quality. Specific toxicants of interest include phthalates and pesticides, as well as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). The human data on the relationship of semen quality with phthalate and pesticide exposure are limited and do not currently allow for a definitive conclusion on whether adult exposure, at background environmental levels, alters semen quality. However, the epidemiologic data support an inverse association of PCBs with reduced semen quality, specifically reduced sperm motility. The associations found were generally consistent across studies despite a range of PCB levels. In addition to the chemicals discussed, there are additional classes of chemicals that require further study on their relation with human semen quality. (author's) Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | LITERATURE REVIEW | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | CLINICAL RESEARCH | MEN | INFERTILITY | ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION | SEMEN | ANALYSIS | PESTICIDES | SPERM IMMOBILIZING AGENTS | North America | Americas | Developed Countries | Research Methodology | Demographic Factors | Population | Reproduction | Environmental Degradation | Environment | Seminal Vesicles | Genitalia, Male | Genitalia | Urogenital System | Physiology | Biology | Ingredients and Chemicals | Spermicidal Contraceptive Agents | Contraceptive Agents | Contraception | Family Planning Document Number: 302399 |
| 29. Title: Arsenic in drinking water in the Los Altos de Jalisco region of Mexico. Author: Hurtado-Jimenez R; Gardea-Torresdey JL Source: Revista Panamericana de Salud Pública / Pan American Journal of Public Health. 2006 Oct;20(4):236-247. Abstract: The objective was to establish the degree of contamination by arsenic in drinking water in the Los Altos de Jalisco (LAJ) region of west-central Mexico, and to estimate the levels of exposure that residents of the area face. Total arsenic concentration (the sum of all arsenic forms, organic and inorganic) was determined for 129 public water wells in 17 municipal capitals (cabeceras municipales) of the LAJ region, using inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy. For most of the wells, water samples were taken in both November 2002 and October 2003. The levels of exposure to arsenic were estimated for babies (10 kg), children (20 kg), and adults (70 kg). Mean concentrations of arsenic higher than the Mexican national guideline value of 25 µg/L were found in 44 (34%) of the 129 wells. The mean concentration of total arsenic for the 129 wells ranged from 14.7 µg/L to 101.9 µg/L. The highest concentrations were found in well water samples collected in the cities of Mexticacán (262.9 µg/L), Teocaltiche (157.7 µg/L), and San Juan de los Lagos (113.8 µg/L). Considering the global mean concentration for all the wells in each of the 17 cities, the mean concentration of arsenic exceeded the Mexican guideline value in 7 of the cities. However, the global mean concentration in all 17 cities was higher than the World Health Organization guideline value of 10 µg/L for arsenic. The range of the estimated exposure doses to arsenic in drinking water was 1.1-7.6 µg/kg/d for babies, 0.7-5.1 µg/kg/d for children, and 0.4-2.7 µg/kg/d for adults. At the exposure doses estimated in the LAJ region, the potential health effects from chronic arsenic ingestion include skin diseases, gastrointestinal effects, neurological damage, cardiovascular problems, and hematological effects. While all the residents may not be affected, an important fraction of the total population of the LAJ region is under potential health risk due to the ingestion of high levels of arsenic. Epidemiological studies to determine the arsenic levels in the blood, hair, and nails of humans should be conducted in the LAJ region to help assess the relationship between the prevalence of health problems and the chronic ingestion of arsenic. (author's) Language: English Keywords: MEXICO | RESEARCH REPORT | EVALUATION | INFANT | CHILDREN | ADULTS | WATER QUALITY | ANALYSIS | STANDARDS | TOXICITY | North America | Americas | Developing Countries | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Environmental Pollution | Environment | Research Methodology | Physiology | Biology | Water Document Number: 315563 |
| 30. Title: Leptin concentration in breast milk and its relationship to duration of lactation and hormonal status. Author: Ilcol YO; Hizli ZB; Ozkan T Source: International Breastfeeding Journal. 2006 Nov 17;1:21. Abstract: Leptin, a hormone present in breast milk, is involved in energy regulation and metabolism. The objectives of this study were to assess leptin concentrations in breast milk during the first 180 days postpartum, and to determine the relationship between the concentrations of milk leptin and circulating hormone levels in lactating women. Between April 2005 and January 2006, blood and breast milk samples were collected from 160 breastfeeding women enrolled either in the first three days (n = 37; colostrum), days 4-4 (n = 27; transitional milk), days 15-30 (n = 16; early mature milk), days 31-90 (n = 37; mature milk) or days 91--180 (n = 43; late mature milk) postpartum. Milk and serum leptin levels were measured by immunoradiometric assay. Cortisol was measured by radioimmunoassay method. Serum insulin, estradiol, prolactin and thyroxine were measured by chemiluminescent immunometric method. Leptin concentrations in breast milk were highest (3.28 ± 0.41 ng/ml) in colostrum, decreased during the first 180 days of lactation, showing a significant inverse relation (r = -0.694, p < 0.001) with the days of lactation. Colostrum leptin concentrations correlated with maternal serum leptin (r = 0.425, p < 0.01), cortisol (r = 0.549, p < 0.01) and thyroxine (r = -0.530, p < 0.01). Mature milk leptin concentrations correlated with maternal serum leptin (r = 0.547, p < 0.001), insulin (r = 0.331, p < 0.05) and thyroxine (r = -0.329, p < 0.01). Serum leptin concentrations correlated with serum insulin (r = 0.648, p < 0.001), estradiol (r = 0.639, p < 0.001), prolactin (r = 0.530, p < 0.001) and thyroxine (r = -0.327, p < 0.05) concentrations during days 1--3 postpartum. During 15-180 postpartum days, serum leptin concentrations correlated with serum insulin (r = 0.271, p < 0.01), and thyroxine (r = -0.345, p < 0.001). Leptin concentrations in breast milk decrease with time during lactation and show significant relationships with other maternal hormones. (author's) Language: English Keywords: TURKEY | RESEARCH REPORT | CLINICAL RESEARCH | MOTHERS | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | LACTATION | TIME FACTORS | HUMAN MILK | ANALYSIS | HORMONES | METABOLIC EFFECTS | Developing Countries | Europe, Southeastern | Europe | Research Methodology | Parents | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Maternal Physiology | Physiology | Biology | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Endocrine System Document Number: 314860 |
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