bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
NAD+ metabolite levels as a function of vitamins and calorie restriction: evidence for different mechanisms of longevity
Authors: Evans Charles , Bogan Katrina L , Song Peng , Burant Charles F , Kennedy Robert T , Brenner Charles 
Published: February 2010

Abstract

Background
NAD+ is a coenzyme for hydride transfer enzymes and a substrate for sirtuins and other NAD+-dependent ADPribose transfer enzymes. In wild-type Saccharomyces cerevisiae, calorie restriction accomplished by glucose limitation extends replicative lifespan in a manner that depends on Sir2 and the NAD+ salvage enzymes, nicotinic acid phosphoribosyl transferase and nicotinamidase. Though alterations in the NAD+ to nicotinamide ratio and the NAD+ to NADH ratio are anticipated by models to account for the effects of calorie restriction, the nature of a putative change in NAD+ metabolism requires analytical definition and quantification of the key metabolites.

Results
Hydrophilic interaction chromatography followed by tandem electrospray mass spectrometry were used to identify the 12 compounds that constitute the core NAD+ metabolome and 6 related nucleosides and nucleotides. Whereas yeast extract and nicotinic acid increase net NAD+ synthesis in a manner that can account for extended lifespan, glucose restriction does not alter NAD+ or nicotinamide levels in ways that would increase Sir2 activity.

Conclusions
The results constrain the possible mechanisms by which calorie restriction may regulate Sir2 and suggest that provision of vitamins and calorie restriction extend lifespan by different mechanisms.
Genetic variation in the adiponectin receptor 2 (ADIPOR2) gene is associated with coronary artery disease and increased ADIPOR2 expression in peripheral monocytes
Authors: Halvatsiotis Iosif , Tsiotra Panayoula C , Ikonomidis Ignatios , Kollias Anastasios , Mitrou Panagiota , Maratou Eirini , Boutati Eleni , Lekakis John , Dimitriadis George , Economopoulos Theofanis , Kremastinos Dimitrios T , Raptis Sotirios A 
Published: February 2010

Abstract

Background
Adiponectin is an adipose tissue secreted protein known for its insulin sensitising and anti-atherogenic actions. To this date two adiponectin receptors have been discovered, adiponectin receptor 1 (ADIPOR1) and adiponectin receptor 2 (ADIPOR2). The aim of this study was to investigate the association of ADIPOR2 gene variations with coronary artery disease (CAD).

Methods
Eight common single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) spanning the entire ADIPOR2 locus were chosen to perform association studies with anthropometric and metabolic parameters in a Greek population. They were classified as either CAD (stenosis >50% in at least one main vessel) or non-CAD individuals in accordance with coronary angiography data.
Genotyping was performed using a microsphere-based suspension array and the Allele Specific Primer Extension (ASPE) method. Expression of ADIPOR2 protein and mRNA in circulating CD14+ monocytes were determined using flow cytometry and real time Polymerase Chain Reaction assays respectively.

Results
There was a significant difference in the distribution of genotypes of polymorphism rs767870 of ADIPOR2 between CAD and non-CAD individuals (p = 0.017). Furthermore, heterozygotes of the rs767870 polymorphism had significantly lower Flow Mediated Dilatation (FMD) values, higher values of Intima-Media Thickness (IMT) and increased ADIPOR2 protein levels in peripheral monocytes, compared to homozygotes of the minor allele after adjustment for age, sex, waist to hip ratio and HOMA.

Conclusions
Our findings suggest that variants of ADIPOR2 could be a determinant for atherosclerosis independent of insulin resistance status, possibly by affecting ADIPOR2 protein levels.
Risk Factors for Prostate Cancer Detection After a Negative Biopsy: A Novel Multivariable Longitudinal Approach
Authors: Gann Peter H. , Fought Angela , Deaton Ryan , Catalona William J. , Vonesh Edward 
Published: February 2010

Purpose To introduce a novel approach for the time-dependent quantification of risk factors for prostate cancer (PCa) detection after an initial negative biopsy. Patients and Methods Data for 1,871 men with initial negative biopsies and at least one follow-up biopsy were available. Piecewise exponential regression models were developed to quantify hazard ratios (HRs) and define cumulative incidence curves for PCa detection for subgroups with specific patterns of risk factors over time. Factors evaluated included age, race, serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) concentration, PSA slope, digital rectal examination, dysplastic glands or prostatitis on biopsy, ultrasound gland volume, urinary symptoms, and number of negative biopsies. Results Four hundred sixty-five men had PCa detected, after a mean follow-up time of 2.8 years. All of the factors were independent predictors of PCa detection except for PSA slope, as a result of its correlation with time-dependent PSA level, and race. PSA (HR = 3.90 for > 10 v 2.5 to 3.9 ng/mL), high-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia/atypical glands (HR = 2.97), gland volume (HR = 0.39 for > 50 v < 25 mL), and number of repeat biopsies (HR = 0.36 for two v zero repeat biopsies) were the strongest predictors. Men with high-risk versus low-risk event histories had a 20-fold difference in PCa detection over 5 years. Conclusion Piecewise exponential models provide an approach to longitudinal analysis of PCa risk that allows clinicians to see the interplay of risk factors as they unfold over time for individual patients. With these models, it is possible to identify distinct subpopulations with dramatically different needs for monitoring and repeat biopsy.
Neutrophilen Gelatinase-assoziiertes Lipocalin (NGAL) für akute Nierenschädigung: das renale Troponin? / Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin for acute kidney injury – the renal troponin?
Authors: Haase Michael , Haase-Fielitz Anja 
Published: February 2010

Zusammenfassung
Die akute Nierenschädigung ist eine prognosebestimmende Erkrankung von epidemischem Ausmaß. Dennoch sind sämtliche Therapieansätze in der klinischen Praxis bislang fehlgeschlagen. Eine Ursache könnte die Verzögerung therapeutischer Maßnahmen sein, welche zu einem Zeitpunkt eingesetzt werden, an dem möglicherweise bereits irreversible Organschäden vorliegen. Neutrophilen Gelatinase-assoziiertes Lipocalin (NGAL) ist ein nach ischämischen, toxischen oder inflammatorischen Noxen aus dem distalen Nephron freigesetztes Protease-resistentes Polypeptid und ein früher, prädiktiver renaler Biomarker für eine akute Nierenschädigung. Neue Biomarker für strukturelle renale Schäden könnten zukünftig zu einer früheren Diagnosestellung und zu einem zeitnahen individualisierten Patientenmanagement einschließlich der Anwendung von potentiell nephroprotektiven Interventionen bzw. der konsequenten Vermeidung nierenschädlicher Substanzen beitragen und auf diese Weise zu einer verbesserten Prognose führen.
Application of Thermogravimetric Analysis for the Proximate Analysis of Livestock Wastes
Authors: Cantrell Keri B. , Martin Jerry H. , Ro Kyoung S. 
Published: February 2010

Abstract
There is worldwide interest in deriving increasing amounts of energy from bio-based agricultural materials including not only lignocellulosic residues but also a significant quantity of available livestock manure. This manure can be used as a feedstock for various thermochemical conversion processes such as pyrolysis and gasification. In order to apply these processes, the manure must be properly characterized for volatile matter (VM) and ash contents. The determination of these components is not mentioned specifically in current ASTM standards for livestock manure. In this study, we employed the use of thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) for the rapid assessment of VM and ash content in swine, dairy, rabbit, and poultry manures using references from the ASTM coal and coke standards. The TGA assessment of VM in the manures were the same as those values found by non-automated means (ASTM D3175-07) ranging from 47 to 78 wt%db. The TGA assessment of the ash was also the same when compared to ash results via non-instrumental means following ASTM D3174-04. Ash values ranged from 4 to 47 wt%db. There was one exception when testing a high ash containing swine lagoon sludge. Under the TGA method, this sludge underwent more complete devolatilization and oxidation. This was primarily attributed to the small sample size leading to uniform internal heating. The modification of the TGA ash method aimed at shortening the run time generated similar results as both the original TGA method and non-automated method. Thus, TGA ash determination in manure should occur above 600°C with preferences for the following method: Zero-grade air at 2–4 furnace volumes/min, heating rate of 11°C⋅min−1, temperature range of 110–950°C, and isothermal hold at 950°C for 10 min. VM determination via TGA should follow ASTM D3175-07.
Early Hyperglycemia Is a Risk Factor for Death and White Matter Reduction in Preterm Infants
Authors: Alexandrou Georgios , Skiöld Beatrice , Karlén Jonna , Tessma Mesfin K. , Norman Mikael , Ådén Ulrika , Vanpée Mireille 
Published: February 2010

OBJECTIVE:The objective of this study was to determine whether hyperglycemia during the first week of life in extremely preterm (EPT) infants was associated with increased mortality rates and with cerebral injury, as assessed with MRI of the brain, at term-equivalent age.METHODS:All 143 EPT infants (gestational ages of &lt;27 weeks) who were born at Karolinska University Hospital between January 2004 and December 2006 and were alive at 24 hours were eligible. Of the 118 surviving infants, 24 were excluded for various reasons. MRI was performed for the 94 included survivors at term age, with a 1.5-T system, and scans were scored for gray matter/white matter (WM) abnormalities. Of the 25 infants who died before term age, 6 were excluded because of missing glucose documentation and the remaining 19 were included. Hyperglycemia was defined as plasma glucose levels of &gt;8.3 mmol/L.RESULTS:Hyperglycemia occurring on the first day of life was identified as an independent risk factor for death (adjusted odds ratio: 3.7 [95% confidence interval: 1.3–10.6]; P = .01). Hyperglycemia occurring on the first day of life also was a risk factor for WM reduction, as determined through MRI, at term-equivalent age (adjusted odds ratio: 3.1 [95% confidence interval: 1.0–9.2]; P = .04).CONCLUSION:In this population-based cohort of EPT infants, hyperglycemia on the first day of life was associated with increased mortality rates and brain damage, as reflected by WM reduction at term age.
Validation of minimal disease activity criteria for psoriatic arthritis using interventional trial data
Authors: Coates Laura C. , Helliwell Philip S. 
Published: February 2010

AbstractObjectiveNew criteria for minimal disease activity (MDA) in psoriatic arthritis (PsA) have been developed. The aim is to provide further validation of these criteria using data obtained in interventional trials with infliximab, a drug with proven efficacy in PsA.MethodsThe data were obtained from patients in phase II and III infliximab studies of PsA. In both studies, patients with active PsA were treated with infliximab (5 mg/kg) or placebo followed by a period of treatment with infliximab. Between‐group comparisons in terms of those achieving MDA and the relationship of MDA to American College of Rheumatology outcomes, C‐reactive protein levels, and radiologic progression were performed.ResultsIn the Infliximab Multinational Psoriatic Arthritis Controlled Trial, 48% (15 of 31) of infliximab‐treated patients achieved MDA at week 16, compared with 3% (1 of 32) taking placebo (P < 0.0001). At week 50, 96% of those patients who achieved MDA showed no progression of radiologic disease (increase in the modified Sharp/van der Heijde score of ≤0), compared with 67% of those who did not achieve MDA (P = 0.012). In the Induction and Maintenance Psoriatic Arthritis Clinical Trial 2, 52% (40 of 77) of infliximab‐treated patients achieved MDA at week 24, compared with 21% (17 of 80) receiving placebo (P < 0.001). At week 54, 78% of those patients who achieved MDA had no radiologic progression, compared with 57% of those who did not achieve MDA (P = 0.009).ConclusionPatients with active PsA achieving MDA with effective therapy have a significant reduction in radiographic progression. Aiming for low levels of disease activity can improve the outcome of patients with PsA even in a disease‐modifying antirheumatic drug–resistant cohort. The new MDA criteria could provide an objective target for treatment in trials and clinical practice.
Expression of Calcium‐Sensing Receptor in Quail Granulosa Explants: A Key to Survival During Folliculogenesis
Authors: Diez‐Fraile Araceli , Mussche Sylvie , Berghe Tom Vanden , Espeel Marc , Vandenabeele Peter , D'Herde Katharina G.M.A. 
Published: February 2010

AbstractThis study investigated the potential role of the calcium‐sensing receptor (CaR) in mediating survival of granulosa cells (GCs) in follicles of the Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica). Immunoreactivity of CaR was shown in GCs of quail preovulatory follicles as well as in the remnants of the GC layer after ovulation. Conversely, the CaR could not be detected by immunocytochemistry in the granulosa of smaller undifferentiated follicles. The presence of CaR in follicles destined to ovulate was confirmed by immunoblot and the receptor was identified as a protein of 115–125 kDa. Addition of different CaR agonists to granulosa explants in culture for 24 hr caused inhibition of apoptosis elicited by gonadotropin withdrawal on its own or in combination with C8‐ceramide addition. Furthermore, R‐568, a specific, positive allosteric modulator of CaR, not only inhibited apoptosis but also increased GC number per viewing field in cultured granulosa explants. This observation could be attributed not to a rise in GC proliferation but to a more compact tissue structure, including a distinct distribution pattern of connexin‐43 gap junction proteins. Incubation in the presence of LY294002, a specific phosphatidylinositol‐3 kinase inhibitor, increased GC apoptosis, indicating that this pathway is involved in GC survival signaling. However, LY294002‐induced apoptosis was considerably attenuated by incubation with R‐568, indicating that other pathways might be major contributors to the survival mediated by CaR agonists. We provide direct evidence for the presence of CaR in preovulatory granulosa explants and suggest a pivotal role for CaR in follicle selection. Anat Rec, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effect of Hypoxia/Reoxygenation on Cell Viability and Expression and Secretion of Neurotrophic Factors (NTFs) in Primary Cultured Schwann Cells
Authors: Zhu Hao , Li Feng , Yu Wen‐Juan , WANG Wen‐Jin , Li Liu , Wan Li‐Dan , Le Yan , Ding Wen‐Long 
Published: February 2010

AbstractAs the primary myelin‐forming cells of the peripheral nervous system, Schwann cells (SCs) play a key role in the regeneration of injured peripheral nerves. However, hypoxia causes injury of SCs, as observed in peripheral neuropathies, including those caused by diabetes. So we investigated the effect of hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) on SCs in this study. To do so, SCs were cultured in hypoxic condition in vitro and then in normal condition for 24 hr; The effects H/R on SCs were evaluated by MTT (3(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay, Hoechst staining, immunocytochemistry, western blotting, ELISA, and RT‐PCR. H/R resulted in a significant decrease in SCs survival and an increase in caspase‐3 activity. H/R also reduced the mRNA level of BDNF (brain derived neurotrophic factor) and its secretion, but NGF mRNA level was elevated in these cells. These observations showed that H/R induces death of primary cultured SCs, and different mechanisms responsible for regulating NGF and BDNF expression. Anat Rec, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Percutaneous valvuloplasty for mitral valve restenosis: Postballoon valvotomy patients fare better than postsurgical closed valvotomy patients
Authors: Nair Krishnakumar , Sivadasanpillai Harikrishnan , Sivasubramonium P. , Ramachandran Padmakumar , Tharakan Jaganmohan A. , Titus Thomas , Ajit Kumar V.K. , Sivasubramonian Sivasankaran , Krishnamoorthy K. Mahadevan , Dora Santosh 
Published: February 2010

AbstractAim: To compare the results of percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty (BMV) for mitral restenosis in post‐BMV versus postclosed mitral valvotomy (CMV) patients. Methods and Results: Ninety‐two patients who underwent BMV for mitral restenosis were followed up prospectively. Of these, 28 patients had undergone previous percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty (PRIOR BMV) and 64 patients had undergone previous closed mitral valvotomy (PRIOR CMV). BMV for mitral restenosis was a success in 59% patients (57.1% PRIOR BMV, 59.3% PRIOR CMV, P = 1.0). Incidence of severe mitral regurgitation was 3.25%, all in the PRIOR CMV group. In univariate analysis, the major predictor of successful BMV for mitral restenosis was Wilkins score (P = 0.004). At a follow up of 3.47 + 2.07 years, mitral valve area was similar between groups (1.45 ± 0.22, 1.46 ± 0.26, P = 0.35). The combined end points of mitral valve replacement (MVR), need for rerepeat BMV for mitral restenosis or death was higher in the PRIOR CMV group (31.2% PRIOR CMV, 7.1% PRIOR BMV, P = 0.027). Event‐free survival at follow up was lower in the PRIOR CMV group (69% PRIOR CMV, 92.8% PRIOR BMV) mainly due to the higher need for MVR (11 vs. 0 patients, P = 0.03). Conclusions: In conclusion, following BMV for mitral restenosis, patients with PRIOR BMV are found to have lesser event rates on follow‐up compared to patients with PRIOR CMV, though procedural success rates are similar. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Introduction to climate, disasters and international development
Authors: Kelman Ilan 
Published: February 2010

AbstractThis Policy Arena provides four papers exploring development policy for climate‐related disaster risk reduction, including but not limited to climate change. The first two papers explore popular concepts, first ‘vulnerability’, ‘capacity’ and ‘resilience’ and second ‘climate refugees’ and ‘climate conflict’. The last two papers each cover a Small Island Developing State (SIDS), Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Samoa, respectively. The key development policy lesson from the papers is a framing that places climate change within wider climate, disaster risk reduction and development perspectives. That is further highlighted here through describing the Many Strong Voices programme that learns from the past to aim for a better future by tackling climate change. Learning from the history of international development assists in addressing root causes, such as vulnerability and poverty, to achieve effective development policy. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Expression of zinc finger protein 105 in the testis and its role in male fertility
Authors: Zhou Huaxin , Liu Lan‐Hsin , Zhang Heng , Lei Zhenmin , Lan Zi‐Jian 
Published: February 2010

AbstractUsing an in silico approach, we identified a putative zinc finger domain‐containing transcription factor (zinc finger protein 105, ZFP105) enriched in the adult mouse testis. RT‐PCR analyses showed that Zfp105 was indeed highly expressed in adult mouse testis and that its expression was regulated during postnatal development. To further characterize Zfp105 expression, we generated a Zfp105:β‐galactosidase (LacZ) knock‐in reporter mouse line (Zfp105LacZ/+) in which a Zfp105:LacZ fusion gene was expressed. Whole‐mount LacZ analyses of adult Zfp105LacZ/+ tissues showed robust LacZ staining in the testis, very weak staining in the ovary, and no staining in the spleen, liver, kidney, heart, lung, thymus, adrenal gland, uterus, or oviduct. Sectional LacZ staining showed that ZFP105 was highly expressed in pachytene spermatocytes. ZNF35, the human ortholog of Zfp105, was also highly expressed in human testis. Immunofluorescence analysis showed that ZNF35 was located primarily in the cytoplasm of male germ cells. More importantly, reduced male fertility was observed in adult Zfp105LacZ/LacZ mice. Histological studies showed the presence of undifferentiated spermatogenic cells in the lumen of seminiferous tubules at stage VII and in the epididymal lumen of adult Zfp105LacZ/LacZ mice. Taken together, our results suggest that ZFP105 is a male germ‐cell factor and plays a role in male reproduction. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 77: 511–520, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Estimation of survival rate and extinction probability for stage‐structured populations with overlapping life stages
Authors: Aubry Aurélie , Bécart Emeline , Davenport John , Emmerson Mark Charles 
Published: February 2010

AbstractThe development of methods providing reliable estimates of demographic parameters (e.g., survival rates, fecundity) for wild populations is essential to better understand the ecology and conservation requirements of individual species. A number of methods exist for estimating the demographics of stage‐structured populations, but inherent mathematical complexity often limits their uptake by conservation practitioners. Estimating survival rates for pond‐breeding amphibians is further complicated by their complex migratory and reproductive behaviours, often resulting in nonobservable states and successive cohorts of eggs and tadpoles. Here we used comprehensive data on 11 distinct breeding toad populations (Bufo calamita) to clarify and assess the suitability of a relatively simple method [the Kiritani–Nakasuji–Manly (KNM) method] to estimate the survival rates of stage‐structured populations with overlapping life stages. The study shows that the KNM method is robust and provides realistic estimates of amphibian egg and larval survival rates for species in which breeding can occur as a single pulse or over a period of several weeks. The study also provides estimates of fecundity for seven distinct toad populations and indicates that it is essential to use reliable estimates of fecundity to limit the risk of under‐ or overestimating the survival rates when using the KNM method. Survival and fecundity rates for B. calamita populations were then used to define population matrices and make a limited exploration of their growth and viability. The findings of the study recently led to the implementation of practical conservation measures at the sites where populations were most vulnerable to extinction.