bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evidence supporting a role for the calcium‐sensing receptor in Alzheimer disease
Authors: Conley Yvette P. , Mukherjee Ankur , Kammerer Candace , DeKosky Steven T. , Kamboh M. Ilyas , Finegold David N. , Ferrell Robert E. 
Published: November 2008

AbstractThe calcium‐sensing receptor (CASR) is a G‐protein coupled, transmembrane receptor that responds to changes in Ca2+ levels. We hypothesized that the CASR could have a role in Alzheimer disease (AD) given expression of the CASR in brain, knowledge that calcium dysregulation promotes susceptibility to neuronal cell damage, the important role that the CASR plays in calcium regulation, and the fact that systemic calcium homeostasis and G‐protein signal transduction are altered in AD patients. To investigate the association of CASR variation in AD susceptibility, we genotyped a polymorphic dinucleotide repeat marker within intron 4, one SNP within the promoter region and three non‐synonymous SNPs within exon 7 of the CASR gene and tested for association analysis, using a well‐characterized cohort of AD cases (n = 692) and controls (n = 435). The dinucleotide repeat polymorphism was significantly associated with AD status (OR = 1.62; 95% CI: 1.27–2.07, P = 0.00037, Bonferroni corrected P = 0.0011) and the three non‐synonymous SNP haplotype was boarderline associated with AD status (P = 0.032, Bonferroni corrected P = 0.096). Stratifying by APOE4 allele carrier status revealed that the significant association was only in non‐APOE4 carriers (OR of 1.90; 95% CI: 1.37–2.62, P = 0.0001). We also investigated whether apoE or β amyloid could activate the calcium‐sensing receptor. The receptor activation assays revealed that apoE as well as β amyloid activated the CASR and that the level of activation appeared to be isoform dependent for apoE. These data support our hypothesis that the CASR has a role in AD susceptibility, particularly in individuals without an APOE4 allele. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthetic Study of (−)‐Norzoanthamine: Construction of the ABC Ring Moiety
Authors: Murata Yoshihisa , Yamashita Daisuke , Kitahara Katsushi , Minasako Yohei , Nakazaki Atsuo , Kobayashi Susumu 
Published: November 2008

AbstractThrow your hat in the ring: A highly diastereoselective synthesis of the ABC rings of (−)‐norzoanthamine has been achieved starting from the (−)‐Hajos–Parrish ketone (see scheme). Three asymmetric quaternary carbon centers on the C ring were constructed by a 1,4‐addition, and an intramolecular Diels–Alder reaction provided a trans‐decalin scaffold on the AB rings.magnified image
A Phosphine‐Mediated Conversion of Azides into Diazo Compounds
Authors: Myers Eddie L. , Raines Ronald T. 
Published: November 2008

AbstractN2 the mild: Diazo compounds are extremely versatile intermediates for synthetic organic chemistry, but their synthesis can be challenging in the presence of delicate functional groups. The Staudinger ligation has inspired a mild method for the conversion of a broad range of azides into their diazo compound derivatives through an acyl triazene intermediate.magnified image
Muscle strength and functional performance in patients with anterior cruciate ligament injury treated with training and surgical reconstruction or training only: A two to five‐year followup
Authors: Ageberg Eva , Thomeé Roland , Neeter Camille , Silbernagel Karin Grävare , Roos Ewa M. 
Published: November 2008

AbstractObjectiveTo study muscle strength and functional performance in patients with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury with or without surgical reconstruction 2 to 5 years after injury. Good muscle function is important in preventing early‐onset osteoarthritis (OA), but the role of reconstructive surgery in restoring muscle function is unclear.MethodsOf 121 patients with ACL injury included in a randomized controlled trial on training and surgical reconstruction versus training only (the Knee, Anterior cruciate ligament, NON‐surgical versus surgical treatment [KANON] study, ISRCTN: 84752559), 54 (mean age at followup 30 years, range 20–39, 28% women) were assessed a mean ± SD of 3 ± 0.9 years after injury with reliable, valid, and responsive test batteries for strength (knee extension, knee flexion, leg press) and hop performance (vertical jump, one‐leg hop, side hop). The Limb Symmetry Index (LSI; injured leg divided by uninjured and multiplied by 100) value and absolute values were used for comparisons between groups (analysis of variance). An LSI ≥90% was considered normal.ResultsThere were no differences between the surgical and nonsurgical treatment groups in muscle strength or functional performance. Between 44% and 89% of subjects had normal muscle function in the single tests, and between 44% and 56% had normal function in the test batteries.ConclusionThe lack of differences between patients treated with training and surgical reconstruction or training only indicates that reconstructive surgery is not a prerequisite for restoring muscle function. Abnormal muscle function, found in approximately one‐third or more of the patients, may be a predictor of future knee OA.
Efficacy of wrist working splints in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: A randomized controlled study
Authors: Veehof M. M. , Taal E. , Heijnsdijk‐Rouwenhorst L. M. , van de Laar M. A. F. J. 
Published: November 2008

AbstractObjectiveTo investigate the efficacy of wrist working splints after a period of splinting in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).MethodsWe performed a 4‐week randomized controlled trial among 33 RA patients with wrist arthritis. Patients were randomly allocated to the splinting group (n = 17) or the control group (n = 16). Patients in the splinting group received a prefabricated wrist working splint and were instructed to use this splint as much as possible during the day. The primary outcome measure was average wrist pain during the past week, measured using a visual analog scale (VAS). Secondary outcome measures were grip strength and functional ability. The latter was measured using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire and the short version of the Sequential Occupational Dexterity Assessment. Measurements were performed at baseline and after 4 weeks. Performance tests were performed without splint. Differences in change scores between the splinting and the control group were analyzed using analysis of covariance. To indicate the magnitude of the treatment effects, effect sizes were calculated.ResultsA large and highly significant treatment effect on wrist pain was found. VAS pain scores decreased by 32% in the splinting group and increased by 17% in the control group. Small and nonsignificant treatment effects were found with regard to nonsplinted grip strength and functional ability.ConclusionPrefabricated wrist working splints are highly effective in reducing wrist pain after 4 weeks of splint wearing in RA patients with wrist arthritis.
Arthritis‐related work transitions: A prospective analysis of reported productivity losses, work changes, and leaving the labor force
Authors: Gignac Monique A. M. , Cao Xingshan , Lacaille Diane , Anis Aslam H. , Badley Elizabeth M. 
Published: November 2008

AbstractObjectiveTo prospectively examine arthritis‐related productivity losses, work changes, and leaving employment, the relationships among these work transitions, and the factors associated with them.MethodsParticipants with inflammatory arthritis or osteoarthritis were interviewed at 4 time points, 18 months apart, using a structured questionnaire. At baseline (T1), all participants (n = 490; 381 women, 109 men) were employed. At T2, T3, and T4, the sample decreased to 413, 372, and 349 participants, respectively. Respondents were recruited using community advertising and from rheumatology and rehabilitation clinics. Work transitions considered were productivity losses (absenteeism, job disruptions), work changes (reduced hours, changing jobs), and leaving employment. Also measured were demographic, illness, work context, and psychological variables. Generalized estimation equations modeled predictors of work transitions over time.ResultsAlthough 63.1% of respondents remained employed throughout the study, work transitions were common (reported by 76.5% of participants). Productivity losses, especially job disruptions such as being unable to take on extra work, were the most frequently reported. Work transitions were related to subsequently making other work transitions, including leaving employment. Age, sex, education, activity limitations, control, depression, and arthritis‐work spillover were also associated with work transitions.ConclusionThis study sheds light on a process of diverse employment changes that may occur in the lives of many individuals with arthritis. It emphasizes the interrelationships among work transitions, as well as other factors in predicting work transitions, and it provides insight into work changes that may signal impending difficulties with remaining employed.
An ultrasonographic study of osteoarthritis of the hand: Synovitis and its relationship to structural pathology and symptoms
Authors: Keen Helen I. , Wakefield Richard J. , Grainger Andrew J. , Hensor Elizabeth M. A. , Emery Paul , Conaghan Philip G. 
Published: November 2008

AbstractObjectiveFew studies have examined hand osteoarthritis (OA) pathology using sensitive imaging techniques. The aim of this study was to determine the extent of ultrasound (US)–detected pathology and investigate its relationship with symptoms in hand OA.MethodsSubjects with symptomatic hand OA and controls were recruited. All underwent clinical and US examination of the small joints of both hands and completed a range of measures of hand pain, stiffness, and function.ResultsThirty‐six subjects with symptomatic OA and 19 control subjects with similar demographics were recruited. US‐detected pathology (osteophytes, joint space narrowing, gray‐scale synovitis, and power Doppler signal) occurred frequently in symptomatic hand OA (41%, 40%, 46%, and 7% of joints, respectively), and significantly less often in controls (P < 0.001 for all comparisons). Symptomatic joints were more likely to demonstrate US‐detected changes of gray‐scale synovitis, power Doppler signal, or osteophytes (P < 0.001, P = 0.002, and P < 0.001, respectively). Neither the number of affected joints per individual nor the summative semiquantitative scores for synovitis per individual correlated with symptoms (pain visual analog scale [VAS], global VAS, or Australian/Canadian Osteoarthritis Hand Index).ConclusionThis study demonstrated extensive synovitis changes as well as the traditional structural radiographic findings of hand OA. Symptomatic joints were significantly more likely to demonstrate US‐detected structural changes or inflammation in symptomatic hand OA; however, the extent of changes in individual joints or in individuals did not correlate with the degree of symptoms, which may relate to both the assessment tools and the complex nature of pain.
Asymptotic behaviour of the finite‐time ruin probability in renewal risk models
Authors: Leipus Remigijus , Šiaulys Jonas 
Published: November 2008

AbstractIn this paper we study the tail behaviour of the probability of ruin within finite time t, as initial risk reserve x tends to infinity, for the renewal risk model with strongly subexponential claim sizes. The asymptotic formula holds uniformly for t∈[f(x), ∞), where f(x) is an infinitely increasing function, and substantially extends the result of Tang (Stoch. Models 2004; 20:281–297) obtained for the class of claim distributions with consistently varying tails. Two examples illustrate the result. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Misclassification Model for the Non‐Disjunction Fraction in Meiosis I
Authors: Loschi Rosangela H. , Monteiro João V. D. , Souto Cristiane S. 
Published: November 2008

AbstractIn this paper we introduce a misclassification model for the meiosis I non‐disjunction fraction in numerical chromosomal anomalies named trisomies. We obtain posteriors, and their moments, for the probability that a non‐disjunction occurs in the first division of meiosis and for the misclassification errors. We also extend previous works by providing the exact posterior, and its moments, for the probability that a non‐disjunction occurs in the first division of meiosis assuming the model proposed in the literature which does not consider that data are subject to misclassification. We perform Monte Carlo studies in order to compare Bayes estimates obtained by using both models. An application to Down Syndrome data is also presented. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Bcl‐2, Raf‐1 and mitochondrial regulation of apoptosis
Authors: Wang Hong‐Gang , Reed John C. 
Published: November 2008

AbstractRaf‐1 kinase was shown to bind via its catalytic domain (Cat) to Bcl‐2 in a BH4 domain‐dependent manner. Using a green fluorescent protein (GFP)‐Raf‐1 (Cat) fusion protein, Bcl‐2 but not Bcl‐2(Δ BH4) was found to target Raf‐1 to mitochondria in cells. Targeting Raf‐1 (Cat) to mitochondrial membranes by fusing with the transmembrane domain of an outer mitochondrial membrane protein protected cells from apoptosis and resulted in phosphorylation of BAD protein, whereas plasma‐membrane targeted Raf‐1 failed to phosphorylate BAD and did not protect against cell death. Moreover, a Bcl‐2 binding protein, BAG‐1, was shown to not only bind Raf‐1 but also increase the activity of this kinase through a protein—protein interaction. The findings suggest that Bcl‐2 targets Raf‐1 to mitochondria, allowing this kinase to contribute to cellular survival by phosphorylating BAD or possibly other protein substrates in the vicinity of Bcl‐2.
Specific interaction of methionine adenosyltransferase with free radicals
Authors: Avila M. A. , Corrales F. J. , Ruiz F. , Sánchez‐Góngora E. , Mingorance J. , Carretero M. V. , Mato J. M. 
Published: November 2008

AbstractAlthough free radicals have been traditionally implicated in cell injury, and associated to pathophysiological processes, recent data implicate them in cell signaling events. Free radicals are naturally occurring oxygen‐, nitrogen‐ and sulfur‐derived species with an unpaired electron, such as superoxide, hydroxyl radical or nitric oxide. In order to assess the role of free radicals in cell signaling, we have studied the modulator effect of oxygen and nitrogen active species on liver methionine adenosyltransferase (MAT), a key metabolic enzyme. The presence of 10 cysteine residues per subunit, makes liver MAT a sensitive target for oxidation/nitrosylation. Here we show that purified MAT from rat liver is nitrosylated and oxidized in vitro. Incubation with H2O2 or the NO donor S‐nitrosylated GSH (GSNO), diminish MAT activity in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner. Furthermore, the inactivation derived from both oxidation and nitrosylation, was reverted by GSH. MAT inactivation originates on the specific and covalent modification of the sulphydryl group of cysteine residue 121. We also studied how free radicals modulate MAT activity in vivo. It was previously shown that MAT activity is strongly dependent on cellular GSH levels. Generation of oxygen and nitrogen active species in rats by injection of LPS, induced a decrease of liver MAT activity. This effect might derive from nitrosylation and/or oxidation of the enzyme. Modulation of liver MAT by NO is further supported by the inactivation of this enzyme observed in experimental models in which NO is produced; such as the administration of NO donors to rats and in hepatocytes cultured in hypoxia, a condition that induces the expression of the inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). Oxidation also controls liver MAT activity in a cell environment as shown in CHO cells stably transfected with rat liver MAT cDNA upon addition of H2O2 to the culture medium. This effect depends upon the generation of the hydroxyl radical. On the basis of the metabolic implications of liver MAT, together with the structural features accounting for the sensitivity of this enzyme to active oxygen and nitrogen species, we propose that modulation of MAT by these agents could be a mechanism to regulate the consumption of ATP in the liver, and thus preserve cellular viability under different stress conditions.
Catechin metabolites after intake of green tea infusions
Authors: Pietta P. G. , Simonetti P. , Gardana C. , Brusamolino A. , Morazzoni P. , Bombardelli E. 
Published: November 2008

AbstractGreen tea contains relatively large amounts of catechins, that have been recognized to be efficient free‐radical scavengers. In spite of a largely described antioxidant effect, the metabolic fate of catechins in humans has been scarcely studied. An infusion of green tea (about 400 mg of catechins) was given to healthy volunteers; plasma and urine samples were collected for 5 h and 2 days, respectively. Epigallocatechin gallate and epicatechin gallate were detected in plasma samples, reaching the maximum concentration (2 μM) at 2 h. Urine samples collected at 6–48 h contained detectable amounts of final catechin metabolites, including 4‐hydroxybenzoic acid, 3,4‐dihydroxybenzoic acid, 3‐methoxy‐4‐hydroxy‐hippuric acid and 3‐methoxy‐4‐hydroxybenzoic acid (vanillic acid). The total content of these metabolites averaged 60 mg. The levels of free plasma catechins account only partly for the increased (∼ +20%) total radical‐trapping antioxidant parameter (TRAP) detected after green tea intake. Catechin conjugates (glucuronide and sulphate) and metabolites may add further contribution and explain the measured TRAP increase.
Plasma antioxidants are strongly affected by iron‐induced lipid peroxidation in rats subjected to physical exercise and different dietary fats
Authors: Quiles José L. , Huertas Jesús R. , Mañas Mariano , Battino Maurizio , Ochoa Julio J. , Mataix JosÉ 
Published: November 2008

AbstractPlasma is an important vehicle through which antioxidant molecules are conveyed and in which they may show different behaviors, either acting as a protective factor for oxidative damage to different blood elements or using it as a vehicle through which dietary antioxidant factors would be distributed to the body. The aim of the study was to determine the plasma level of vitamin E, coenzyme Q, uric acid and vitamin A and their relation with the cellular oxidative damage mediated by physical training and the ingestion of different fats (virgin olive and sunflower oils). Male Wistar rats were divided into 8 subgroups based on the dietary fat intake and their physical activity. Results show that both dietary fat and physical training affect susceptibility to iron‐induced lipid peroxidation in plasma and the tissues that were studied. The increase of this lipid peroxidation parallels a decrease of the level of all the plasma antioxidants that were studied.
Serum malondialdehyde in HIV‐seropositive children negatively correlates with CD4+ lymphocytes count
Authors: Jareño Enrique J. , Bosch‐Morell Francisco , Fernández‐Delgado Rafael , Donat Joaquín , Romero Francisco J. 
Published: November 2008

AbstractHuman immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is associated with oxidative stress as it has been demonstrated in adult‐seropositive individuals. We show in this study that serum malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration of HIV‐infected children was significantly higher than in control children. A negative correlation (r=‐0.515) was found in HIV‐infected children between their CD4+ lymphocyte count, and MDA concentration but not with serum antioxidant status. The increase of MDA concentration in HIV‐seropositive children confirms the involvement of oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of this infection also in childhood. Because of the importance of oxidative stress and antioxidants for HIV viral replication, the adequacy of an adjuvant therapy with antioxidants should be considered; an adequate candidate for it could be N‐acetyl‐cysteine.
Oxidant—antioxidant imbalance in blood of children with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Araujo V. , Arnal C. , Boronat M. , Ruiz E. , Domínguez C. 
Published: November 2008

AbstractJuvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) is the most commonly diagnosed rheumatic disease in children and may represent not a single disease, but rather a syndrome of diverse aetiologies in which inflammation is an exceedingly complex process. Oxidative free radical production at inflammation sites contributes to tissue damage and could also play a significant role in the pathogenesis of JRA. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant status and lipid peroxidation parameters related to the clinical form of JRA. Plasma malondialdehyde and hydroperoxide concentrations in children with polyarticular and systemic JRA subtypes were significantly higher than in controls. Plasma vitamin E and β‐carotene levels of the JRA children were lower in the three forms compared with healthy children. Patients with JRA present an imbalance in the oxidant—antioxidant system that manifests clearly in the polyarticular and systemic forms through an increase in lipoperoxidation products and significant decrease in the lipid‐soluble antioxidants vitamin E and β‐carotene.
Phenyl Cinnamate Derivatives from Oxalis pes‐caprae
Authors: DellaGreca Marina , Purcaro Raffaella , Previtera Lucio , Zarrelli Armando 
Published: November 2008

AbstractDuring the screening of Mediterranean invasive plants, Oxalis pes‐caprae was identified as promising species. The fresh leaves and twigs of the plant were crumbled and extracted with AcOEt. The solution was concentrated, and separated into acidic and neutral fractions. The crude neutral residue was fractionated by chromatographic procedures, followed by structure elucidation on the basis of 1H‐ and 13C‐NMR, and MS data analysis, and six new phenyl cinnamate derivatives were identified. The phytotoxic effects of the isolated compounds on the germination and growth of the dicotyledon Lactuca sativa L. (lettuce) were studied in the concentration range from 10−4 to 10−7 M.
Furanocembranoids from the Soft Corals Sinularia asterolobata and Litophyton arboreum
Authors: Grote Daniela , Dahse Hans‐Martin , Seifert Karlheinz 
Published: November 2008

AbstractThe new cembranoid diterpene danielid (1) along with 3α‐ethoxyfuranocembranoid 2, pukalide (3), 13α‐acetoxypukalide (4), furanocembranoid 5, and furanosesquiterpene 6 have been isolated from the soft coral Sinularia asterolobata. The furanocembranoid diterpene 11β,12β‐epoxypukalide (7) and the sesquiterpene (−)‐bicyclogermacrene (8) have been obtained from the soft coral Litophyton arboreum. The structures were elucidated primarily by NMR spectroscopy. The furanocembranoids 2, 4, and 5 show good antiproliferative activities against the cell lines L‐929 and K‐562, and weak cytotoxic effects on HeLa cells.