bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Brevard fault zone at Rosman, Transylvania County, North Carolina
Authors: Horton J. Wright , Butler J. Robert
Published: November 2007

The Brevard fault zone is exposed near Rosman, Transylvania County, North Carolina (Fig. 1), in the southwestern quadrant of the Rosman 7½-minute Quadrangle. The stops are along public roads and are accessible without special permission. Busloads of approximately 50 people have visited these outcrops in the past.
Winding Stair Gap granulates
Authors: Absher B. Steven , McSween Harry Y.
Published: November 2007

The Winding Stair Gap exposure is a l,220-ft-(370 m) long road cut on U.S. 64 in Macon County, North Carolina. The outcrop is located in the northeastern part of the Rainbow Springs 7½-minute Quadrangle within the Nantahala National Forest, 10.5 mi (17.5 km) south of the U.S. 64 South and U.S. 441 intersection near Franklin, North Carolina (Fig. 1). Paved parking areas suitable for buses are available at the crest of Winding Stair Gap adjacent to the Appalachian Trail, and just north of the exposure at a scenic overlook. Access to the upper tiers (for specimen collecting) is via the northern end of the outcrop.
The Cartersville fault at Carters Dam
Authors: McConnell Keith I.
Published: November 2007

The Cartersville fault is exposed near the powerhouse at the base of Carters Dam located in southeastern Murray County, approximately 60 miles (96 km) north-northwest of Atlanta on the Oakman 7½-minute Quadrangle (Fig. 1). To reach Carters Dam, travel north from Cartersville on U.S. 411 until you see the signs for the Carters Dam powerhouse.
The Brevard fault zone west of Atlanta, Georgia
Authors: McConnell Keith I.
Published: November 2007

One of the best exposures of the Brevard fault zone is located along I-285 approximately 12 mi (19 km) west of the center of Altanta, Georgia. This exposure is present just south of the Chattahoochee River (Fig. 1) on both sides of the Interstate. The outcrop on the east side of the Interstate is better for examining the textures and structures of the Brevard zone. Traffic along this section of Atlanta's Interstate system is very heavy, and extreme caution should be used in viewing this outcrop.
Structural and petrologic features of the Stone Mountain granite pluton, Georgia
Authors: Grant Willard H.
Published: November 2007

Stone Mountain is located 14 mi (22.5 km) due east of the intersection of I-85 and I-75 in north Atlanta. The park is accessible from any interstate going to Atlanta by exiting on I-285 and following it until it intersects U.S. 78 (Stone Mountain Freeway) east of Atlanta. A modest fee is charged at the gate, where a map of the entire park is available. Since access to most of the field trip stops is in parts of the park not open to the general public, permission must be obtained. This can bedone by going to Confederate Hall at the west end of the mountain and requesting permission at the administrative offices to visit the quarry on the east end of the mountain (East Quarry), Stop 3, and the extension of Old U.S. 78, Stop 2, that terminates in the lake (Figs. 1 and 2).

The Confederate Memorial, a carving of Lee, Jackson, and Davis, the steep north-facing slope of the mountain, is a readily visible landmark for orientation. Structural features are best observed on dark, wet, cold winter days when the clouds hang low on the mountain. All the light is diffuse and the wetness enhances structural details to the maximum. Mid-summer viewing, especially on bright sunny days, ranges from poor to impossible in the quarries.
Carbonate rock environments of south Florida
Authors: Bond Paulette A.
Published: November 2007

Representative exposures of Florida's Pleistocene carbonate rock environments are clustered at the southern tip of peninsular Florida (Fig. 1). The carbonate rocks can be examined onshore in Miami and on Windley Key, and offshore on Grecian Rocks and Rodriquez Bank, which are accessible by small boat. More precise location information is provided with the discussions for individual stops.
Providence Canyons
Authors: Donovan Arthur D. , Reinhardt Juergen
Published: November 2007

Providence Canyons State Park is located in Stewart County, Georgia, in the Lumpkin SW 7½-minute quadrangle. The park entrance (Fig. 1) is located 0.15 mi (0.24 km) west of the intersection of Stewart County Road 23 and Georgia Road 39c.

The leader of any major field trip should advise the Park Superintendent of the purpose of the visit. No sampling or climbing of the canyon walls is allowed without the written permission of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, 270 Washington Street, S.W., Atlanta, GA 30334.
The Mississippian-Pennsylvanian transition along Interstate 64, northeastern Kentucky
Authors: Ettensohn Frank R.
Published: November 2007

A 17 mile segment of I-64 crosses the Mississippian-Lower Pennsylvanian outcrop belt nearly perpendicular to strike in Rowan and Carter counties, northeastern Kentucky (Fig. 1), revealing a series of approximately 30 roadcuts. All cuts are on highway right-of-way on either side of the road, Large-scale relationships and features in some cuts are best viewed from the opposite side of the road.
The Bashi-Tallahatta section at Mt. Barton, Meridian, Mississippi
Authors: Dockery David T.
Published: November 2007

Mt. Barton is a prominent hill south of Meridian, Mississippi, in the SE¼ SE¼, sec. 24, T. 6 N., R. 15 E., Lauderdale County, Meridian South 7½-minute quadrangle (Fig. 1). The section at Mt. Barton is readily accessible by taking the 31st Street South exit off of 1-20 at Meridian. Stop 1 of the section is at a field of boulders lining the right side of the exit ramp. Stops 2 and 3 are at Mt. Barton off of the first dirt road to the left from 31st Street South.
Earthquake-related features in the Reelfoot Lake area of the New Madrid Fault Zone in northwest Tennessee
Authors: Blythe Ernest W.
Published: November 2007

The Reelfoot Lake area is accessible from the east by 1-40 and Tennessee 22; from the south by U.S. 51 and Tennessee 78; from the west by I-55 and 1-155 and Tennessee 78; and from the north by the Purchase Parkway, U.S. 51-45W, and Tennessee 22 (Fig. 1).
Domes of the North Louisiana Salt Basin
Authors: Martinez Joseph D.
Published: November 2007

Nineteen salt domes (Fig. 1) are located in the North Louisiana Salt Basin, which lies between the Sabine Uplift and the Monroe Uplift. U.S. 167 from Alexandria to Ruston, Louisiana, provides access to this area. Winnfield, Vacherie, and Rayburns domes are precisely located on Figures 2, 5, and 7 in this paper. For greater detail on others see Kupfer (1975) and Anderson and others (1973).
Louisiana Chenier Plain
Authors: Wells John T.
Published: November 2007

The Chenier Plain extends along the Louisiana Gulf Coast west from Vermilion Bay to Sabine Lake. The region is accessible via Louisiana 27 south from Lake Charles and US 167 south of Lafayette, Louisiana to the coast road, Louisiana 82 (Figs. 1, 2).
Overflights of the lower deltaic plain of the Mississippi River delta complex
Authors: Roberts Harry H.
Published: November 2007

Two overflight routes of the Mississippi River Delta complex augment or substitute for actual observation of depositional settings in the field (see Roberts, this Guidebook) (Fig. 1). Both overflights start and end at Lakefront Airport in New Orleans and incorporate depositional environments of the modern river, especially the Balize delta lobe. Arrangements can be made at Lakefront Airport to rent a light aircraft for the purpose of an overflight.
The Bayou Lafourche delta, Mississippi River delta plain, Louisiana
Authors: Penland Shea , Ritchie William , Boyd Ron , Gerdes Robert G. , Suter John R.
Published: November 2007

In southeast Louisiana, State Highway 1 provides the only direct access to the shoreline of the delta plain along the natural levee of Bayou Lafourche through Cheniere Caminada to Grand Isle (Fig. 1). Abandoned approximately 300 years ago, the Bayou Lafourche delta represents the last major distributary of the larger Lafourche delta complex to be built. The Bayou Lafourche landscape contains some of the best examples of regressive and transgressive delta cycle landforms to be found within the entire Mississippi River delta plain. This cluster stop is designed to examine these features, particularly the regressive distributaries and beach ridges of Bayou Lafourche as well as the transgressive Caminada-Moreau coast, Caminada Pass spit, and Grand Isle flanking barrier island.
“Four Corners”
Authors: Chesnut Donald R. , Cobb James C. , Kiefer John D.
Published: November 2007

The “Four Corners” exposure is located at the intersection of Kentucky 80, Kentucky 15, and the Daniel Boone Parkway about 2.7 mi (4.3 km) northward of Hazard in Perry County, Kentucky. The stop is located in Carter coordinate section 14-S-76, on the Hazard North 7½-minute Quadrangle (Fig. 1). The multilane highways offer easy accessibility by vehicle. Buses may park along the shoulder of the Daniel Boone Parkway or Kentucky 80. Multiple benches on these high roadcuts offer access to most of the strata by foot; however, much of the geology is visible from the road. Potential dangers such as traffic, extreme heights, rock falls, and unstable footing should be stressed. Be particularly aware of people below you. Do not enter adits or overhangs of adits.
Burning Springs Anticline, West Virginia
Authors: Filer Jonathan K.
Published: November 2007

The site is located in northwestern West Virginia, straddling the Wood/Ritchie county line along U.S. 50, 12 mi (20 km) east of the intersection of that highway with Interstate 77 near Parkersburg, West Virginia (Fig. 1). The site is on the southeast corner of the Willow Island, West Virginia, 7½-minute Quadrangle. Exposures are in road cuts on either side of the highway. No permission is necessary for access.
Hydrogeology of Turnhole Spring groundwater basin, Kentucky
Authors: Quinlan James F. , Ewers Ralph O. , Palmer Arthur N.
Published: November 2007

The Turnhole Spring groundwater basin covers more than 85 mi2 (220 km2) in parts of Edmundson and Hart Counties, Kentucky, approximately 30 miles (50 km) north of Bowling Green, Kentucky and 10 miles (16 km) west of Interstate 65 at Cave City, Kentucky (Fig. 1).
Devonian to Mississippian section, Elkins, West Virginia
Authors: McColloch J. S. , Schwietering J. F.
Published: November 2007

The site is a series of twenty road cuts along the four-lane section of U.S. 33 between Can field and Bowden in northern Randolph County, West Virginia. It is depicted on the Elkins and Bowden 7½-minute Quadrangles (Fig. 1). The seven-milelong section begins 2.1 miles (3.4 km) east of the intersection of U.S. 33,250, and 219 in Elkins, West Virginia, and is accessible by car and bus.
The Catskill elastic wedge (Acadian Orogeny) in eastern West Virginia
Authors: Fichter Lynn S.
Published: November 2007

Exposures of the Catskill elastic wedge are located in Pendleton County, West Virginia, and include parts of the Brandywine and Fort Seybert 7½-minute quadrangles (Fig. 1). The left hand topographic map in Figure 1 shows all six stops along U.S. 33; it is an enlarged portion of the 2 degree Charlottesville quadrangle. The right hand map is a part of the 7½-minute Brandywine quadrangle showing location of Stop 5.
Volcanic hazards in the Mexico City metropolitan area from eruptions at Popocatépetl, Nevado de Toluca, and Jocotitlán stratovolcanoes and monogenetic scoria cones in the Sierra Chichinautzin Volcanic Field
Authors: Siebe Claus , Macías José Luis
Published: November 2007

Tephrochronological studies carried out over the past decade in the area surrounding Mexico City have yielded a wealth of new radiocarbon ages from eruptions at Popocatépetl, Nevado de Toluca, and Jocotitlán stratovolcanoes and monogenetic scoria cones in the Sierra Chichinautzin Volcanic Field. These dates allow us to constrain the frequency and types of eruptions that have affected this area during the course of the past 25,000 yr. They have important implications for archaeology as well as future hazard evaluations. Late Pleistocene and Holocene volcanic activities at the stratovolcanoes are characterized by recurrent cataclysmic Plinian eruptions of considerable magnitude. They have affected vast areas, including zones that today are occupied by large population centers at Puebla, Toluca, and Mexico City. During Holocene time, Nevado de Toluca and Jocotitlán have each experienced only one Plinian eruption, ca. 10,500 yr B.P. and 9700 yr B.P. respectively. During the same period of time, Popocatépetl had at least four such eruptions, ca. 8000, 5000, 2100, and 1100 yr B.P. Therefore, the recurrence interval for Plinian eruptions is less than 2000 yr in this region. The last two Plinian eruptions at Popocatépetl are of particular interest because they destroyed several human settlements in the Basin of Puebla. Evidence for these disasters stems from pottery shards and other artifacts covered by Plinian pumice falls, ash-flow deposits, and lahars on the plains to the east and northeast of the volcanic edifice. Several monogenetic scoria cones located within the Sierra Chichinautzin Volcanic Field at the southern margin of Mexico City were also dated by the radiocarbon method in recent years. Most previous research in this area was concentrated on Xitle scoria cone, whose lavas destroyed and buried the pre-Hispanic town of Cuicuilco ca. 1665 ± 35 yr B.P. The new dates indicate that the recurrence interval for monogenetic eruptions in the close vicinity of Mexico City is also <2000 yr. The longest lava flow associated with a scoria cone was erupted by Guespalapa and reached 24 km from its source; total areas covered by lava flows from each monogenetic eruption typically range between 30 and 80 km2, and total erupted volumes range between 0.5 and 2 km3/cone. An average eruption rate for the entire Chichinautzin was estimated at ~0.5 km3/1000 yr. These findings are of great importance for archaeological as well as volcanic hazard studies in this heavily populated region.
Correlation of Middle Devonian Hamilton Group-equivalent strata in east-central North America: implications for eustasy, tectonics and faunal provinciality
Authors: Bartholomew A. J. , Brett C. E.
Published: November 2007

An integrated approach, involving nearly all available biostratigraphic data, event and sequence stratigraphy, has been utilized in correlation of the Middle Devonian (latest Eifelian–Givetian) Hamilton Group and equivalent strata in north-central North America. This approach permits high-resolution correlation of strata equivalent to the Oatka Creek (upper Marcellus), Skaneateles, Ludlowville and Moscow Formations from New York into sections bordering the Michigan Basin in Ontario, Canada, as well as southern Michigan, northern Ohio and Indiana, USA. Most member and submember-scale units, herein slightly redefined and interpreted as 3rd and 4th order sequences, respectively, and their bounding condensed beds can be correlated regionally. Moreover, many faunal patterns also persist across this region, which, together with sequence stratigraphy, provides a bridge for correlation into the Michigan Basin. The detailed stratigraphy presented herein permits a more-resolved understanding of far-field tectonics, eustasy and biotic responses during the Middle Devonian. Allocyclic processes, primarily eustasy, played a key role in generating persistent sedimentary cycles. Episodes of rapid mud sedimentation occurred over large areas of the cratonic interior, distal to Acadian source terrains. The major Algonquin–Findlay Arch, which presently separates the Michigan Basin from the Appalachian foreland basin, was not present during deposition of these strata. Conversely, a roughly north–south trending region, running approximately through present-day Cleveland, Ohio, was first a local subsiding area during late Eifelian–early Givetian time and then underwent topographic inversion to form a local arch at which upper Hamilton units were condensed and then bevelled during the later Givetian; we infer that this feature may represent a migrating forebulge. Finally, fossil biotas do not show strong partitioning into Appalachian and Michigan basin faunal subprovinces during the early Givetian, as there appears to have been no physical barrier to migration at least in the study area. However, Hamilton-equivalent strata in the most proximal portion of the Appalachian Basin do show a relatively minor admixture of typical Michigan Basin taxa with normal Hamilton forms.
Givetian (Middle Devonian) brachiopod–goniatite–correlation in the Dra Valley (Anti-Atlas, Morocco) and Bergisch Gladbach–Paffrath Syncline (Rhenish Massif, Germany)
Authors: Ebbighausen V. , Becker R. T. , Bockwinkel J. , Aboussalam Z. S.
Published: November 2007

The Givetian pelagic and dysoxic outer shelf facies of the Dra Valley (SW Morocco) yielded as minor benthic faunal elements a number of stringocephalid and uncitid brachiopods that allow a precise correlation of these marker brachiopods with the regional, detailed goniatite zonation. In a reverse situation, the predominant neritic shallow-water succession of the Bergisch Gladbach area (Rhenish Massif, Germany), which is characterized by a detailed succession of stringocephalids and
Uncites
, has yielded rare and new Middle Givetian goniatite species. These findings allow, with some help of conodont data, neritic–pelagic correlations within and between widely separated basins. New species are
Tornoceras
n. sp. from the Büchel Formation (with coloration remains), ‘
Trevoneites
’
paffrathensis
n. sp. from the Lower Plattenkalk Formation, and
Maenioceras heinorum
n. sp. from the Hornstein Member. New material of stringocephalids and
Uncites
is described from the Dra Valley. The identical, well-defined range of
Uncites (U.) gryphus gryphus
in the lower to middle parts of the Middle Givetian of the Dra Valley and Rhenish Massif underscores the stratigraphical significance of this genus that was widely distributed in Europe, northern Gondwana, the Urals, and Central and Eastern Asia.
The end-Frasnian mass extinction in the Eifel Mountains, Germany: new insights from organic matter composition and preservation
Authors: Hartkopf-Fröder C. , Kloppisch M. , Mann U. , Neumann-Mahlkau P. , Schaefer R. G. , Wilkes H.
Published: November 2007

The Büdesheimer Bach borehole in the Prüm Syncline, Eifel Mountains, Germany encountered upper Frasnian and lowermost Famennian sediments including the Upper Kellwasser Horizon (UKW) and a limestone-dominated sequence (‘LKW’) which can be correlated with the Lower Kellwasser Horizon in other sections. The palynofacies is characterized by a high abundance of amorphous organic matter (AOM), prasinophytes, miospores and acritarchs indicative of a fully marine, rather distal and oxygen-deficient environment. AOM and a low sterane/hopane ratio suggest that cyanobacteria were important primary producers and that bacterial reworking and oxidation influenced the organic matter composition resulting in reduced total organic carbon (TOC) contents and lower hydrogen index (HI) values. The ‘LKW’ and the UKW can be distinguished from the adjacent units by the abundant prasinophytes and some geochemical parameters (e.g. higher HI, lower pristane/phytane ratio, lower aryl isoprenoid ratio) but these differences are not highly significant. However, the sediments between these two horizons show an increased input of bacteria and terrestrial plant material as a result of the regression that follows after the deposition of the Lower Kellwasser Horizon. Aryl isoprenoids originating from diagenetic transformation of the carotenoid isorenieratene, which are markers for anoxygenic photosynthetic green sulphur bacteria, have been detected in all samples but are more abundant in the ‘LKW’ and UKW. Hence, photic zone anoxia seems to have been more pronounced during deposition of these horizons, supporting the view that widespread anoxia was an important trigger of the massive end-Frasnian biotic decline.
Psychopathy as a Clinical and Empirical Construct
Authors: Hare Robert D. , Neumann Craig S.
Published: November 2007

In this review, we focus on two major influences on current conceptualizations of psychopathy: one clinical, with its origins largely in the early case studies of Cleckley, and the other empirical, the result of widespread use of the Hare Psychopathy Checklist-Revised (PCL-R) for assessment purposes. Some investigators assert that the PCL-R, ostensibly based on Cleckley's work, has “drifted” from the construct described in his Clinical Profile. We evaluate this profile, note its basis in an unrepresentative sample of patients, and suggest that its literal and uncritical acceptance by the research community has become problematical. We also argue that the idea of construct “drift” is irrelevant to current conceptualizations of psychopathy, which are better informed by the extensive empirical research on the integration of structural, genetic, developmental, personality, and neurobiological research findings than by rigid adherence to early clinical formulations. We offer some suggestions for future research on psychopathy.
Hypercoagulability after partial liver resection
Authors: Denninger Marie Hélène , Dondero Federica , Saada Véronique , Venisse Laurence , Huisse Marie Geneviève , Belghiti Jacques , Guillin Marie Claude , Bezeaud Annie
Published: November 2007

One concern of living donor liver transplantation remains the risk of morbidity and/or mortality for the donors, including the risk of postoperative thrombosis. We studied the coagulation changes after partial liver resection in l2 living donors and eight patients with non-malignant hepatic tumors (controls) and searched for potential predictive markers of thrombotic complications. Thrombosis (pulmonary embolism and portal vein thrombosis) developed in two donors and two controls. In donors and controls, we observed an early postoperative decrease in coagulation inhibitors protein C and antithrombin together with an increase in factor VIII and von Willebrand factor, which both persisted when prothrombin time had returned to normal. Dysregulation in the haemostatic system was confirmed by increased prothrombotic markers, with a 10- to 30-fold increase in thrombin-antithrombin complexes and moderate increase( 1.5- to 2.0-fold) in sP-Selectin. No difference between donors and controls was observed and the data were pooled for comparison of patients with (n=4) versus without (n=16) thrombosis. Thrombin-antithrombin complexes were significantly higher in the thrombosis group, on day 1 (28.8 vs. 13.5 μg/l, p = 0.027) and day 2 (52.3 vs. 9.3 μg/l, p = 0.013). sPselectin was also significantly higher in the thrombosis group on day 2 (103 vs. 53 ng/ml, p= 0.044) and day 4 (116 vs. 58 ng/ml, p= 0.026) after surgery. Our study indicates that improvement of thromboprophylaxis in partial liver resection is needed. It also suggests that thrombin-antithrombin complexes and sP-selectin could serve as early biological predictors of thrombotic complications in the post-operative period.
Role of haemorheological factors in patients with retinal vein occlusion
Authors: Mannini Lucia , Marcucci Rossella , Bolli Paola , Sodi Andrea , Giambene Barbara , Menchini Ugo , Gensini Gian Franco , Abbate Rosanna , Prisco Domenico , Sofi Francesco
Published: November 2007

Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) is an important cause of permanent visual loss. Hyperviscosity, due to alterations of blood cells and plasma components, may play a role in the pathogenesis of RVO. Aim of this case-control study was to evaluate the possible association between haemorheology and RVO. In 180 RVO patients and in 180 healthy subjects comparable for age and gender we analysed the whole haemorheological profile: [whole blood viscosity (WBV), erythrocyte deformability index (DI), plasma viscosity (PLV), and fibrinogen]. WBV and PLV were measured using a rotational viscosimeter, whereas DI was measured by a microcomputer-assisted filtrometer. WBV at 0.512 sec-1 and 94.5 sec-1 shear rates as well as DI, but not PLV, were found to be significantly different in patients as compared to healthy subjects. At the logistic univariate analysis,a significant association between the highest tertiles of WBV at 94.5 sec-1 shear rate (OR:4.91,95%CI 2.95–8.17;p<0.0001),WBV at 0.512 sec-1 shear rate (OR: 2.31, 95%CI 1.42–3.77; p<0.0001), and the lowest tertile of DI (OR: 0.18, 95%CI 0.10–0.32; p<0.0001) and RVO was found. After adjustment for potential confounders,the highest tertiles of WBV at 0.512 sec-1 shear rate (OR: 3.23, 95%CI 1.39–7.48; p=0.006),WBV at 94.5 sec-1 shear rate (OR: 6.74, 95%CI 3.06–14.86; p<0.0001) and the lowest tertile of DI (OR:0.20,95%CI 0.09–0.44,p<0.0001) remained significantly associated with the disease. In conclusion,our data indicate that an alteration of haemorheological parameters may modulate the susceptibility to the RVO, by possibly helping to identify patients who may benefit from haemodilution.
The influence of established genetic variation in the haemostatic system on clinical restenosis after percutaneous coronary interventions
Authors: Pons Douwe , Monraats Pascalle , de Maat Moniek , Pires Nuno , Quax Paul , van Vlijmen Bart , Rosendaal Frits , Zwinderman Aeilko , Doevendans Pieter , Waltenberger Johannes , de Winter Robbert , Tio René , Frants Rune , van der Laarse Arnoud , Vander Wall Ernst , Jukema Wouter
Published: November 2007

Since activation of the haemostatic system is an important feature of the wound healing response triggered by arterial injury, variations in genes involved in thrombus formation may play a role in restenosis after percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI). Therefore, our aim was to examine the relationship between polymorphisms that are known to play a role in the haemostatic system and the risk of clinical restenosis in the GENetic DEterminants of Restenosis (GENDER) study,a multicenter prospective study design that enrolled 3,104 consecutive patients after successful PCI. Target vessel revascularization (TVR) was the primary endpoint. All patients were genotyped for six polymorphisms in the Factor II, Factor V, Factor VII and PAI-1 genes. The PAI-1 4G variant was associated with an increased risk ofTVR. When compared to 5G/5G homozygotes, heterozygous patients were at higher risk for TVR (HR: 1.46, 95%CI: 1.05–2.03), whereas patients with the 4G/4G genotype had an even further increased risk (HR: 1.69, 95%CI: 1.19–2.41). In contrast, the factor V 506Gln (factor V Leiden) amino acid substitution was associated with a decreased risk of TVR (HR: 0.41, 95%CI: 0.19–0.86). Our findings indicate that polymorphisms in the factorV and PAI-1 genes may play a role in the process of restenosis.
Alternative splicing of platelet cyclooxygenase-2 mRNA in patients after coronary artery bypass grafting
Authors: Censarek Petra , Steger Gerhard , Paolini Carla , Hohlfeld Thomas , Grosser Tilo , Zimmermann Norbert , Fleckenstein Diana , Schrör Karsten , Weber Artur-Aron
Published: November 2007

Recently, we cloned from platelet mRNA a novel cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 splice variant, designated COX-2a, which is characterized by a partial deletion of exon 5. Preliminary studies of mRNA distribution of COX-2 isoforms in platelets from coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) patients showed a variable increase in COX-2a mRNA expression after cardiac surgery. Thus, we assessed whether this variant may play a functional role in these patients. We report a marked (about 20346-fold) increase in the expression of COX-2a mRNA after CABG. Evidence is presented that ribosomal frame-shifting may correct the coding sequence resulting in the expression of a full-length COX-2a pro-tein. In addition, a reading frame-corrected COX-2a mutant (COX-2aΔG) was generated by site-directed mutagenesis and expressed in COS-7 cells using an adenoviral expression system. However, COX-2a protein was not active in terms of prostaglandin formation. Thus, alternative mRNA splicing might represent an intriguing posttranscriptional mechanism to oppose a transcriptional activation of the COX-2 gene. Evolutionary, this mechanism may prevent COX-2-dependent thromboxane synthesis in the platelet, which would potentiate the likelihood of thrombosis; pharmacologically, this mechanism would prevent an aspirin-insensitive pathway of thromboxane formation.
Localization of the low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein regions involved in binding to the A2 domain of coagulation factor VIII
Authors: Makogonenko Evgeny , Andersen Olav , Mikhailenko Irina , Ananyeva Natalya , Khrenov Alexey , Shima Midori , Strickland Dudley , Saenko Evgueni , Sarafanov Andrey
Published: November 2007

Catabolism of coagulation factorVIII (FVIII) is mediated by lowdensity lipoprotein receptor-related protein (LRP). The ligandbinding sites of LRP are formed by complement-type repeats (CR), and CR clusters II and IV bind most of LRP ligands. FVIII contains two major LRP-binding sites located in the A2 and A3 domains. This study was aimed to identify specific complementtype repeats of LRP involved in interaction with the A2 site and to probe their functional importance in A2 catabolism. We generated individual LRP clusters II, III and IV, along with nine overlapping CR triplets encompassing clusters II and IV in a baculovirus expression system and studied their interaction with isolated A2. In surface plasmon resonance (SPR) assay, A2 bound to clusters II and IV with KDs 22 and 39 nM, respectively, and to the majority of CR triplets with affinities in the range of KDs 25–90 nM. Similar affinities were determined for A2 interaction with a panel of CR doublets overlapping cluster II (CR 3–4, 4–5, 5–6 6–7 and 7–8). These LRP fragments inhibited the binding of 125I-A2 to LRP in solid-phase assay,LRP-mediated internalization of 125I-A2 in cell culture and 125I-A2 clearance from the mouse circulation. Point mutations of critical A2 residues of the LRPbinding site resulted in differential reduction or abolishment of its binding to LRP fragments. We conclude that A2 interacts with LRP via multiple binding sites spanning CR 3–8 in cluster II and CR 23–29 in cluster IV, and the minimal A2-binding unit of LRP is formed by two adjacent CR.
Determinants of platelet conjugate formation with polymorphonuclear leukocytes or monocytes in whole blood
Authors: Costanzo Simona , Vohnout Branislav , Iacoviello Licia , Gaetano Giovanni de , Izzi Benedetta , Pampuch Agnieszka , Cerletti Chiara
Published: November 2007

Following preliminary in-vitro experiments, platelet-leukocyte conjugates and their determinants were evaluated in citrated whole blood from 349 subjects (209 women, age 16–92 years) randomly recruited from the general population. Platelet activation by ADP/collagen but not leukocyte stimulation by fMLP or LTB4 resulted in formation of platelet conjugates with PMN or monocytes. In the population study, mixed cell conjugates, platelet P-selectin and leukocyte CD11b were measured by flow cytometry both at baseline and after in-vitro stimulation with ADP/collagen. The latter significantly increased platelet conjugates with either PMN or monocytes, platelet P-selectin and leukocyte CD11b expression. Platelet count significantly correlated with platelet-PMN, platelet-monocyte conjugates and P-selectin both at baseline and upon stimulation. In all conditions, both conjugate levels correlated with each other, when adjusted for gender, age and platelet count. Age correlated with platelet-PMN conjugate numbers in basal and stimulated conditions and with basal P-selectin. ADP/collagen stimulation resulted in higher P-selectin and conjugates values in women. Among risk factors, a significant correlation was found between conjugate and glucose levels. In conclusion, the presence and formation in whole blood from a large population of plateletleukocyte conjugates reflects primary platelet – but not leukocyte – activation and varies with gender, age, platelet count and blood glucose.
Interleukin 6 plasma levels predict with high sensitivity and specificity coronary stenosis detected by coronary angiography
Authors: Cefalù Angelo Baldassare , Vadalà Anna , Barbagallo Carlo Maria , Rizzo Manfredi , Pernice Vincenzo , Minà Mariangela , Fayer Francesca , Cerasola Giovanni , Notarbartolo Alberto , Noto Davide , Cottone Santina , Averna Maurizio Rocco
Published: November 2007

In recent years new biomarkers able to measure the coronary atherosclerotic burden have been investigated. The aim of the present study was: i) to measure plasma levels of four biomarkers: C reactive protein (CRP), soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1), interleukin 6 (IL-6), 8-isosprostane (8-ISO),in a series of patients undergoing coronary angiography; ii) to assess the power of the biomarkers to predict critical coronary stenosis detected by angiography. The study population consisted of a group of 438 subjects undergoing coronary angiography; 160 patients with 0, 1, 2, or 3 critical vessels were selected, and biomarkers plasma levels were measured in plasma samples obtained before the procedure. The most predictive biomarker was then assayed in 120 patients with critical stenosis and 120 unmatched patients without stenosis. CRP, sICAM-1, IL-6 and 8-ISO plasma levels increased with the number of diseased vessels. All biomarkers were good predictors of critical stenosis (receiver-operator-curve [ROC] areas; CRP=0.880, IL-6=0.936, sICAM-1=0.907, 8-ISO=0.873). IL-6 was confirmed in an expanded sample of 240 subjects to be the best predictor with a ROC area=0.959.With a threshold of 3.6 ng/l,a 100% sensitivity (120/120) and a 90% specificity (108/120) was observed. In conclusion, IL-6, sICAM-1, CRP and 8-ISO are predictive of CAD. IL-6 predicts critical coronary stenosis with the highest sensitivity and specificity.
Plasma cholesteryl ester transfer protein and blood coagulability
Authors: Deguchi Hiroshi , Fernndez José , Griffin John
Published: November 2007

Dyslipoproteinemia involving low levels of high density lipoprotein (HDL) is linked to venous thrombosis in young male adults and to recurrence of venous thrombosis in patients who have experienced a previous unprovoked venous thrombosis episode. Plasma cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) modulates HDL metabolism and some lipoproteins can affect blood coagulation reactions with either procoagulant or anticoagulant effects. Hence, we evaluated relationships between the mass of CETP and blood coagulability in plasma samples from 39 normal healthy adults. For clotting initiated by dilute tissue factor or factor XIa,clotting times significantly correlated with CETP antigen levels. Thus,coagulation initiated by either the extrinsic or intrinsic coagulation pathway is positively correlated with CETP plasma levels. When added to plasma, a recombinant CETP preparation dose-dependently shortened factor Xa-1-stage clotting times, showing that it augmented procoagulant activity in plasma. In reaction mixtures containing purified factors Xa and Va and prothrombin, the recombinant CETP preparation dose-dependently increased prothrombin activation, suggesting it specifically enhances prothrombinase activity. Thus, our data highlight a previously unknown positive relationship between CETP plasma levels and blood coagulability that might relate to risks for thrombotic events.
Safety of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Patients With Cardiovascular Devices
Authors: Levine Glenn N. , Gomes Antoinette S. , Arai Andrew E. , Bluemke David A. , Flamm Scott D. , Kanal Emanuel , Manning Warren J. , Martin Edward T. , Smith J. Michael , Wilke Norbert , Shellock Frank S.
Published: November 2007

Advances in magnetic resonance (MR) imaging over the past 2 decades have led to MR becoming an increasingly attractive imaging modality. With the growing number of patients treated with permanent implanted or temporary cardiovascular devices, it is becoming ever more important to clarify safety issues in regard to the performance of MR examinations in patients with these devices. Extensive, although not complete, ex vivo, animal, and clinical data are available from which to generate recommendations regarding the safe performance of MR examination in patients with cardiovascular devices, as well as to ascertain caveats and contraindications regarding MR examination for such patients. Safe MR imaging involves a careful initial patient screening, accurate determination of the permanent implanted or temporary cardiovascular device and its properties, a thoughtful analysis of the risks and benefits of performing the examination at that time, and, when indicated, appropriate physician management and supervision. This scientific statement is intended to summarize and clarify issues regarding the safety of MR imaging in patients with cardiovascular devices.
Conversion to Sirolimus as Primary Immunosuppression Attenuates the Progression of Allograft Vasculopathy After Cardiac Transplantation
Authors: Raichlin Eugenia , Bae Jang-Ho , Khalpey Zain , Edwards Brooks S. , Kremers Walter K. , Clavell Alfredo L. , Rodeheffer Richard J. , Frantz Robert P. , Rihal Charanjit , Lerman Amir , Kushwaha Sudhir S.
Published: November 2007

Background—

We investigated the potential of conversion to sirolimus (SRL) as a primary immunosuppressant in attenuating cardiac allograft vasculopathy progression.

Methods and Results—

Twenty-nine cardiac transplant recipients were converted to SRL 3.8±3.4 years after transplantation with complete calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) withdrawal. Secondary immunosuppressants (azathioprine or mycophenolate) and steroids remained unchanged. Forty patients (controls) 4.8±4.0 years from transplantation were maintained on CNIs. Three-dimensional intravascular ultrasound studies were performed at baseline and 12.1±2.6 months later. Mean plaque (media and intima) volume (PV) and plaque index (PI) (PV/vessel volume percent) increased significantly in the CNI group (1.28±2.86 mm
3
/mm,
P
=0.004; and 6±8%,
P
=0.0001) but not in the SRL group (0.1±1.13 mm
3
/mm,
P
=0.63; and 0.1±8%,
P
=0.94). In patients enrolled within 2 years after transplantation, the increases in PV (0.06±1.06 versus 1.77±1.65 mm
3
/mm;
P
=0.0081) and PI (0±9% versus 10±8%;
P
=0.0145) were smaller in the SRL group (n=11) than in the CNI (n=12) group. In patients enrolled ≥2 years after transplantation, the increase in PI was less in the SRL group compared with the CNI group (0.1±6.5% versus 5±8%;
P
=0.033), but changes in PV did not differ significantly. Treatment with azathioprine or mycophenolate did not affect PV or PI in either the SRL group (PV: 0.22±0.66 versus 0.05±1.45 mm
3
/mm,
P
=0.46; PI: 1.5±6% versus −1.6±8.5%,
P
=0.29) or the CNI group (PV: 1.42±1.39 versus 1.06±2.28 mm
3
/mm,
P
=0.49; PI: 7.8±8.7% versus 4.8±7.3%,
P
=0.23).

Conclusions—

Substituting CNI with SRL as primary immunosuppression attenuates cardiac allograft vasculopathy progression.
Calsarcin-1 Protects Against Angiotensin-II–Induced Cardiac Hypertrophy
Authors: Frank Derk , Kuhn Christian , van Eickels Martin , Gehring Doris , Hanselmann Christiane , Lippl Stefanie , Will Rainer , Katus Hugo A. , Frey Norbert
Published: November 2007

Background—

We have previously shown that deficiency for the z-disc protein calsarcin-1 (CS1) sensitizes the heart to calcineurin signaling and to stimuli of pathological hypertrophy. In the present study we asked whether overexpression of CS1 might exhibit antihypertrophic effects, and therefore we tested this hypothesis both in vitro and in vivo.

Methods and Results—

Adenoviral gene transfer of CS1 into neonatal cardiomyocytes inhibited hypertrophy as a result of Gq-agonist stimulation, including angiotensin-II (Ang-II), endothelin-1, and phenylephrine. Consistently, Adenoviral gene transfer of CS1 also led to the reduction of increased levels of atrial natriuretic factor (mRNA) and the calcineurin-sensitive gene MCIP1.4, suggesting that CS1 inhibits calcineurin-dependent signaling. Furthermore, we generated CS1-overexpressing transgenic mice (CS1Tg). Unchallenged CS1Tg mice did not exhibit a pathological phenotype as assessed by echocardiography and analysis of cardiac gene expression. Likewise, when subjected to long-term infusion of Ang-II, both CS1Tg and wild-type mice developed a similar degree of arterial hypertension. Yet, in contrast to wild-type mice, Ang-II–treated CS1Tg animals did not display cardiac hypertrophy. Despite the absence of hypertrophy, both fractional shortening and dP/dt
max
were preserved in CS1Tg Ang-II–treated mice as assessed by echocardiography and cardiac catherization, respectively. Moreover, induction of the hypertrophic gene program (atrial natriuretic factor, brain natriuretic peptide) was markedly blunted, and expression of the calcineurin-dependent gene MCIP1.4 was significantly reduced in CS1Tg mice, again consistent with an inhibitory role of CS1 on calcineurin.

Conclusions—

The sarcomeric protein CS1 prevents Ang-II–induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy at least in part via inhibition of calcineurin signaling. Thus, overexpression of CS1 might represent a novel approach to attenuate pathological cardiac hypertrophy.
Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Versus Routine Cardiac Catheterization Before Bidirectional Glenn Anastomosis in Infants With Functional Single Ventricle
Authors: Brown David W. , Gauvreau Kimberlee , Powell Andrew J. , Lang Peter , Colan Steven D. , del Nido Pedro J. , Odegard Kirsten C. , Geva Tal
Published: November 2007

Background—

Routine preoperative catheterization is standard practice in patients with single-ventricle physiology before bidirectional Glenn anastomosis. Because catheterization is invasive and exposes patients to ionizing radiation, cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) may be a safe and effective alternative.

Methods and Results—

We conducted a prospective, randomized, single-center clinical trial comparing catheterization with CMR in patients considered for bidirectional Glenn operation from February 2003 to June 2006. End points were frequency of adverse events of the preoperative evaluation and a composite score of clinically successful surgery. Of 92 eligible patients, 82 were enrolled on the basis of screening echocardiogram, fulfillment of inclusion criteria, and informed consent. Patients were randomized to catheterization (n=41) or CMR (n=41). There were no baseline differences between groups. Four treatment crossovers occurred, 3 to catheterization and 1 to CMR. Catheter interventions were performed in 17 patients (41%). Catheterization resulted in more minor adverse events (78% versus 5%;
P
<0.001), longer preoperative hospital stays (median, 2 versus 1 day;
P
<0.001), and higher hospital charges ($34 477 versus $14 921;
P
<0.001). There was 1 major adverse event in the CMR group (
P
=1.0). The operative course and frequency of postoperative complications were similar between the 2 groups. The proportion of patients who had a successful bidirectional Glenn operation was similar (71% versus 83%;
P
=0.3). At the 3-month follow-up, there were no differences in clinical status, oxygen saturation, or frequency of reinterventions.

Conclusions—

CMR is a safe, effective, and less costly alternative to routine catheterization in the evaluation of selected patients before bidirectional Glenn operation. Further studies are necessary to determine whether there are long-term benefits from transcatheter interventions in these patients.
NF-κB Is a Key Mediator of Cerebral Aneurysm Formation
Authors: Aoki Tomohiro , Kataoka Hiroharu , Shimamura Munehisa , Nakagami Hironori , Wakayama Kouji , Moriwaki Takuya , Ishibashi Ryota , Nozaki Kazuhiko , Morishita Ryuichi , Hashimoto Nobuo
Published: November 2007

Background—

Subarachnoid hemorrhage caused by the rupture of cerebral aneurysm (CA) remains a life-threatening disease despite recent diagnostic and therapeutic advancements. Recent studies strongly suggest the active participation of macrophage-mediated chronic inflammatory response in the pathogenesis of CA. We examined the role of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) in the pathogenesis of CA formation in this study.

Methods and Results—

In experimentally induced CAs in rats, NF-κB was activated in cerebral arterial walls in the early stage of aneurysm formation with upregulated expression of downstream genes. NF-κB p50 subunit–deficient mice showed a decreased incidence of CA formation with less macrophage infiltration into the arterial wall. NF-κB decoy oligodeoxynucleotide also prevented CA formation when it was administered at the early stage of aneurysm formation in rats. Macrophage infiltration and expression of downstream genes were dramatically inhibited by NF-κB decoy oligodeoxynucleotide. In human CA walls, NF-κB also was activated, especially in the intima.

Conclusions—

Our data indicate that NF-κB plays a crucial role as a key regulator in the initiation of CA development by inducing some inflammatory genes related to macrophage recruitment and activation. NF-κB may represent a therapeutic target of a novel medical treatment for CA.
Pulse Pressure and Pulse Wave Velocity Are Related to Cognitive Decline in the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging
Authors: Waldstein Shari R. , Rice S. Carrington , Thayer Julian F. , Najjar Samer S. , Scuteri Angelo , Zonderman Alan B.
Published: November 2007

Pulse pressure and pulse wave velocity, markers of arterial stiffness, have been associated with stroke, dementia, and lowered levels of cognitive function. Here we examine longitudinal relations of pulse pressure and pulse wave velocity to multiple domains of cognitive function among nondemented, stroke-free persons. Up to 1749 participants from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging completed tests of verbal and nonverbal memory, attention, perceptuo-motor speed, confrontation naming, executive functions, and cognitive screening measures, as well as concurrent sphygmomanometric assessment of blood pressure (for derivation of pulse pressure) on 1 to 8 occasions over 14 years. A subset of ≤582 participants also underwent a single baseline assessment of pulse wave velocity and cognitive assessment on 1 to 6 occasions over 11 years. Results of mixed-effects regression models revealed a prospective decline on tests of verbal learning, nonverbal memory, working memory, and a cognitive screening measure among those with increasing levels of pulse pressure (
P
<0.05). Persons with higher baseline pulse wave velocity also exhibited prospective decline on tests of verbal learning and delayed recall, nonverbal memory, and a cognitive screening measure (
P
<0.05). Markers of arterial stiffness are associated prospectively with cognitive decline before dementia. Aggressive treatment of risk factors associated with greater arterial stiffness may help preserve cognitive function with individuals’ increasing age.