bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Estimating the body mass of extinct ungulates: a study on the use of multiple regression
Authors: Mendoza M. , Janis C. M. , Palmqvist P. 
Published: May 2006

AbstractThe correlation between body mass and both skeletal and dental measures in living mammals has enabled paleontologists to obtain reliable estimates of body size for extinct species, usually using log‐transformed bivariate least‐squares regression equations. Multiple regression, however, has rarely been used for estimating the mass of extinct species, although this technique can clearly improve the predictive equations compared with those adjusted by simple regression. However, the use of multiple regression is problematical, because even those functions explaining a high percentage of the variance of the dependent variable (i.e. body mass) can show a rather limited predictive power. After analyzing which factors determine the predictive ability of multiple regression equations, we propose a new set of algorithms that allow the estimation of the body mass of extinct ungulates. These algorithms are finally applied to three Miocene ungulate species,Dinohippus leidyanus,Stenomylus hitchcockiandAletomeryx scotti.
Radio views of cosmic reionization
Authors: Valdés M. , Ciardi B. , Ferrara A. , Johnston-Hollitt M. , Röttgering H. 
Published: May 2006

Abstract
We use numerical simulations of cosmic reionization and radiative processes related to the H i 21-cm emission line to produce synthetic radio maps as seen by next-generation telescopes that will operate at low radio frequencies (e.g. the Low Frequency Array, LOFAR). Two different scenarios, in which the end of reionization occurs early (z ≈ 13) or late (z ≈ 8) depending on the initial mass function (IMF) of the first stars and ionizing photon escape fraction, have been explored. For each of these models we produce synthetic H i 21-cm emission maps by convolving the simulation outputs with the provisional LOFAR sampling function in the frequency range 76–140 MHz. If reionization occurs late, LOFAR will be able to detect individual H i structures on arcmin scales, emitting at a brightness temperature of ≈35 mK as a 3σ signal in about 1000 h of observing time. In the case of early reionization, the detection would be unlikely, due to decreased sensitivity and increased sky temperatures. These results assume that ionospheric, interference and foreground issues are fully under control.
Metaontology
Authors: Eklund Matti 
Published: May 2006

AbstractMetaontology – the study of the nature of ontological issues – has flourished in recent years. The focus of this summary will be on some views and arguments that are central to today’s debate. One theme will be that of how seriously to take ontology: whether there is reason to take a skeptical or deflationary attitude toward ontological claims, as theorists like Rudolf Carnap, Hilary Putnam, and Eli Hirsch in different ways have urged. The other theme will be that of the viability of the Fregean and Quinean approaches to ontology that have been and still are central to analytic philosophy.
Markers of exacerbation severity in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Franciosi Luigi G , Page Clive P , Celli Bartolome R , Cazzola Mario , Walker Michael J , Danhof Meindert , Rabe Klaus F , Pasqua E Della Oscar 
Published: May 2006

Abstract

Background
Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can experience 'exacerbations' of their conditions. An exacerbation is an event defined in terms of subjective descriptors or symptoms, namely dyspnoea, cough and sputum that worsen sufficiently to warrant a change in medical management. There is a need for reliable markers that reflect the pathological mechanisms that underlie exacerbation severity and that can be used as a surrogate to assess treatment effects in clinical studies. Little is known as to how existing study variables and suggested markers change in both the stable and exacerbation phases of COPD. In an attempt to find the best surrogates for exacerbations, we have reviewed the literature to identify which of these markers change in a consistent manner with the severity of the exacerbation event.

Methods
We have searched standard databases between 1966 to July 2004 using major keywords and terms. Studies that provided demographics, spirometry, potential markers, and clear eligibility criteria were included in this study. Central tendencies and dispersions for all the variables and markers reported and collected by us were first tabulated according to sample size and ATS/ERS 2004 Exacerbation Severity Levels I to III criteria. Due to the possible similarity of patients in Levels II and III, the data was also redefined into categories of exacerbations, namely out-patient (Level I) and in-patient (Levels II & III combined). For both approaches, we performed a fixed effect meta-analysis on each of the reported variables.

Results
We included a total of 268 studies reported between 1979 to July 2004. These studies investigated 142,407 patients with COPD. Arterial carbon dioxide tension and breathing rate were statistically different between all levels of exacerbation severity and between in out- and in-patient settings. Most other measures showed weak relationships with either level or setting, or they had insufficient data to permit meta-analysis.

Conclusion
Arterial carbon dioxide and breathing rate varied in a consistent manner with exacerbation severity and patient setting. Many other measures showed weak correlations that should be further explored in future longitudinal studies or assessed using suggested mathematical modelling techniques.
Cross-species hybridizations on a multi-species cDNA microarray to identify evolutionarily conserved genes expressed in oocytes
Authors: Vallée Maud , Robert Claude , Méthot Steve , Palin Marie-France , Sirard Marc-André 
Published: May 2006

Abstract

Background
Comparative genomic analysis using cDNA microarray is a new approach and a useful tool to identify important genetic sequences or genes that are conserved throughout evolution. Identification of these conserved sequences will help elucidate important molecular mechanisms or pathways common to many species. For example, the stockpiled transcripts in the oocyte necessary for successful fertilization and early embryonic development still remain relatively unknown. The objective of this study was to identify genes expressed in oocytes and conserved in three evolutionarily distant species.

Results
In this study we report the construction of a multi-species cDNA microarray containing 3,456 transcripts from three distinct oocyte-libraries from bovine, mouse and Xenopus laevis. Following the cross-species hybridizations, data analysis revealed that 1,541 positive hybridization signals were generated by oocytes of all three species, and 268 of these are preferentially expressed in the oocyte. Data reproducibility analyses comparing same-species to cross-species hybridization indicates that cross-species hybridizations are highly reproducible, thus increasing the confidence level in their specificity. A validation by RT-PCR using gene- and species-specific primers confirmed that cross-species hybridization allows the production of specific and reliable data. Finally, a second validation step through gene-specific microarray hybridizations further supported the validity of our cross-species microarray results. Results from these cross-species hybridizations on our multi-species cDNA microarray revealed that SMFN (Small fragment nuclease), Spin (Spindlin), and PRMT1 (Protein arginine methyltransferase 1) are transcripts present in oocytes and conserved in three evolutionarily distant species.

Conclusion
Cross-species hybridization using a multi-species cDNA microarray is a powerful tool for the discovery of genes involved in evolutionarily conserved molecular mechanisms. The present study identified conserved genes in the oocytes of three distant species that will help understand the unique role of maternal transcripts in early embryonic development.
Leiomyomatosis peritonealis disseminata in association with Currarino syndrome?
Authors: Nappi Carmine , Sardo Attilio Di Spiezio , Mandato Vincenzo Dario , Bifulco Giuseppe , Merello Elisa , Savanelli Antonio , Mignogna Chiara , Capra Valeria , Guida Maurizio 
Published: May 2006

Abstract

Background
Leiomyomatosis peritonealis disseminata (LPD) is a rare disease in which multiple smooth muscle or smooth muscle-like nodules develop subperitoneally in any part of the abdominal cavity. No reports of multiple congenital malformations associated with LPD have been found in the English literature.

Case presentation
A 27 year-old patient referred to our gynaecology unit for pelvic pain, amenorrhoea, stress incontinence, chronic constipation and recurrent intestinal and urinary infections. Multiple congenital malformations had previously been diagnosed. Most of these had required surgical treatment in her early life: anorectal malformation with rectovestibular fistula, ectopic right ureteral orifice, megadolichoureter and hemisacrum.
An ultrasound scan and computed tomography performed in our department showed an irregular, polylobate, complex 20 cm mass originating from the right pelvis that reached the right hypochondrium and the epigastrium. The patient underwent laparotomy. The three largest abdominal-pelvic masses and multiple independent nodules within the peritoneum were progressively removed. The histological diagnosis was of LPD.

Conclusion
The case we report is distinctive in that a rare acquired disease, LPD, coexists with multiple congenital malformations recalling a particular subgroup of caudal regression syndrome: the Currarino syndrome.
IL-5-mediated eosinophil survival requires inhibition of GSK-3 and correlates with β-catenin relocalization
Authors: Rosas Marcela , Dijkers Pascale F , Lindemans Caroline L , Lammers Jan-Willem J , Koenderman Leo , Coffer Paul J 
Published: May 2006

Abstract
Interleukin (IL)-5 is a hematopoietic cytokine able to regulate differentiation, survival, and effector functions of eosinophils. It binds specifically to its receptor, which is composed of a cytokine-specific α-chain and a β-chain shared with the receptors for IL-3 and the granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor. The molecular mechanisms by which IL-5 modulates eosinophil survival remain unclear. In this study, we demonstrate that IL-5 withdrawal induces eosinophil apoptosis through a mitochondria-dependent pathway, independently of Fas receptor activation. The lipid kinase phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase plays a crucial role in the maintenance of eosinophil survival, as inhibition of its activity results in apoptosis. IL-5 induces phosphorylation and thus, inhibition of the Forkhead transcription factor FOXO3a and glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK-3). We analyzed expression of FOXO3a-dependent transcriptional targets: Fas ligand or Bim (a proapoptotic Bcl-2 family member), but neither was detected in apoptotic eosinophils. We further show that GSK-3 is activated after IL-5 withdrawal, and inhibition of its activity rescues eosinophils from apoptosis. β-catenin, a direct GSK-3 substrate, is present in the nucleus of IL-5-stimulated eosinophils, but it is translocated to the plasma membrane in the absence of cytokine in a GSK-3-dependent manner. This is the first report describing a potential role for GSK-3 and β-catenin in regulating eosinophil survival and suggests a novel mechanism by which IL-5 inhibits the constitutive apoptotic program in these cells.
A survey of pharmacy assistants in Grampian on prevention of HIV and hepatitis B and C
Authors: Watson Lorna , Bond Christine , Gault Caroline 
Published: May 2006

Abstract

Objective
Prevention of infection with blood-borne pathogens (BBPs) HIV and hepatitis B and C, remains a major public health challenge. The aim of this study was to assess the activity, knowledge and attitudes of community pharmacy assistants in Grampian in prevention of HIV and hepatitis B and C.

Method
A cross-sectional postal questionnaire survey of community pharmacy assistants. Outcome measures were practice, knowledge and barriers to practice.

Setting
Grampian, a mixed urban-rural health board area in North-East Scotland with a population of 532 432.

Key findings
Forty out of 78 (51%) assistants responded. Many were based in pharmacies that provided services for drug misusers, and/or stocked condoms. Twenty-four assistants stated that the pharmacies stocked extra-strong condoms but none was aware of dental dams being stocked. Two-thirds had leaflets relating to safer sex, HIV or hepatitis. Twenty assistants were confident that they could give advice on safer sex. Knowledge of BBPs and the infectivity of hepatitis B was relatively low. Few assistants were aware of recommendations for hepatitis B vaccination. The majority felt that in the future pharmacy assistants could have a greater role in the prevention of these infections. Principal barriers to preventive activity were described as lack of a private area, lack of training and time pressure.

Conclusions
Pharmacy assistants have the potential to be a focus for advice and simple information relating to prevention of HIV and hepatitis B and C. Resources are needed to address the current barriers identified.
Potential role of the community liaison pharmacist: stakeholder views
Authors: Vuong Tam , Marriott Jennifer L 
Published: May 2006

Abstract

Objective
To determine the views of stakeholders regarding a community liaison pharmacy (CLP) service and to obtain their opinion about the risk of medication misadventure for patients in the immediate post-discharge period.

Setting
The study was conducted with medical practitioners, community nurses, community pharmacy, hospital pharmacy, consumers and hospital administration from a division of general practice in Victoria, Australia.

Method
Semi-structured interviews were conducted to address areas of: the discharge process, liaison between primary and secondary healthcare sectors and views of a CLP. A focus group was conducted with key informants from the interviews to explore the emergent themes.

Key findings
Themes from 23 interviews and the focus group explored the difficulties experienced with the discharge process and communication at the primary and secondary interface. Participants discussed the types of problems that patients face after hospital discharge and those potentially at risk of medication misadventure. The role of a liaison pharmacist was defined and logistics of implementation of a CLP service and ameliorable barriers were identified. Information from the focus group was utilised to develop a medication misadventure risk assessment tool for patients returning to community care from hospital.

Conclusion
Problems with the discharge process and communication at the primary and secondary interface often result in deficiencies in the continuum of care between hospital and the community. Most participants recognised the potential benefits of a CLP service that may bridge the gap in communications between the healthcare settings as well as educating and supporting some patients regarding their medications shortly following discharge from hospital.
Catalytic Beckmann Rearrangement of Oximes in Homogeneous Liquid Phase
Authors: Izumi Yusuke 
Published: May 2006

Abstract
Oximes such as cyclohexanone oxime and benzaldehyde oxime were catalytically transformed into the corresponding lactams in N,N-dimethylformamide solutions of alkylating reagents such as trialkyloxonium salts. Catalyst turnover attained 43 on the basis of the acid used to obtain alkylating reagent. O-Alkyl-N,N-dimethylformamidinium salt was suggested to be a catalyst species.
A Novel Electrochemical Quantification Method for Trans/Cis Interconversion of Azo Compounds in a Solid Monolayer Film
Authors: Liu Zhong-Fan , Hashimoto Kazuhiko , Fujishima Akira 
Published: May 2006

Abstract
A direct electrochemical quantification method for the trans/cis interconversion reaction of some azobenzene derivatives in a solid monolayer film was developed, on the basis of the photoelectrochemical hybrid phenomenon that we found.
Stereoselective Synthesis of Novel Thromboxane A2 Receptor Antagonists via Stereoselective 1-Azadiene Isomerization
Authors: Sugaya Toru , Kato Nobuyuki , Tomioka Shinji , Tamaki Kentaro 
Published: May 2006

Abstract
Novel non-prostanoid thromboxane A2 receptor antagonists were synthesized stereoselectively using the transformation of (E,Z)-1-azadiene intermediates to the only (E) isomers under acidic conditions.
Methyl Group Can Stabilize Carbocations
Authors: Oki Michinori , Taguchi Yasushi , Toyota Shinji , Yonemoto Katsumi , Yamamoto Gaku 
Published: May 2006

Abstract
Whereas diazotization of ap-2-(1,4-dimethyl-9-triptycyl)-2-methylpropylamine in benzene afforded expected hydrocarbons in addition to a small amount of 2-(1,4-dimethyl-9-triptycyl)-2-methylpropyl acetate, its sc-isomer gave 1,1,3-trimethyl-2,3,7,11b-tetrahydro-7,11b-o-benzeno-1H-benzo[de]anthracene, and a larger amount of the acetate. The results provide unambiguous evidence that the 1-methyl group stabilizes the cation formed by diazotization.
A New Fused-Ring Conjugated Polymer. Di(polydiacetylene)
Authors: Okada Shuji , Matsuda Hiro , Masaki Atsushi , Nakanishi Hachiro , Hayamizu Kikuko 
Published: May 2006

Abstract
A new conjugated polymer which has π-conjugation between two polydiacetylene backbones was synthesized by two-step solid-state polymerization of a dialkyltetraacetylene compound. This polymer is considered to be a fused-ring polymer of conjugated 10π-electron system.
Electrochemical Property and Formation of the Cation Radical and Dication of Dinaphtho[1,8-b,c]-1,5-dithiocin
Authors: Fujihara Hisashi , Chiu Jer-Jye , Furukawa Naomichi 
Published: May 2006

Abstract
A new symmetrical dithio peri-bridged naphthalene, dinaphtho[l,8-b,c]-1,5-dithiocin (1) has been synthesized. The cyclic voltammogram of 1 showed one reversible oxidation peak. ESR spectrum of the coned H2SO4 solution of 1 showed the formation of the cation radical. The formation of the dication of 1 was observed in the reaction of the corresponding monosulfoxide with concd D2SO4 by both high-field 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy.
Synthesis of a Widely Conjugated, Substituted Polyacetylene from 1-t-Butyldiphenylsilyl-1,3-butadiyne
Authors: Yamaguchi Masahiko , Torisu Kazuhiko , Hiraki Ken-ichi , Minami Toru 
Published: May 2006

Abstract
Polymerization of 1-t-butyldiphenylsilyl-1,3-butadiyne with MoCl5-Et3SiH catalyst gives a novel widely conjugated polyacetylene. An appropriate selection of the silyl group and catalyst is essential.
Modified Cyclodextrin System for Controlling Photosensitized Reduction of Viologen by Guests
Authors: Du Yi-qun , Harada Takaoki , Nakamura Asao , Ueno Akihiko , Toda Fujio 
Published: May 2006

Abstract
The invesitigation of photosensitized reduction of viologen-appended β-cyclodextrin (CDxEV2+) using Rose Bengal as a sentizer has revealed that the reduction of the viologen moiety of CDxEV2+ is remarkably affected by the presence of guests. The spatial position of the viologen moiety in CDxEV2+, which can be changed by guest binding, is suggested to be the factor that governs the reduction.
Preparation of a Thermally Stable Polymer Solid Electrolyte Using Poly(parabanic acid) Matrix
Authors: Kanbara Takaki , Inami Minoru , Yamamoto Takakazu , Nishikata Atsushi , Tsuru Toru 
Published: May 2006

Abstract
Poly(parabanic acid) (PPA) forms transparent homogeneous composites with lithium and sodium salt (LiClO4, LiBF4, Li[CF3SO3], NaClO4, and NaBF4) up to 30–60 wt% of the salt in the composite. The composites show electrical conductivity of 1.7 × 10−5 S cm−1 at 50 wt% of Li[CF3SO3] at 20 °C. The composites are thermally stable up to about 180 °C and temperature dependence of the electrical conductivity obeys Arrhenius type equation in most cases with activation energy of 0.6–1.0 eV.
Synthesis and Lithiation of Monosilylated 1,3,5,7-Octatetrayne
Authors: Yamaguchi Masahiko , Torisu Kazuhiko , Nakamura Shigeo , Minami Toru 
Published: May 2006

Abstract
Unstable monosilylated 1,3,5,7-octatetrayne was synthesized and lithiated with butyllithium. The resulted lithium acetylide added to aldehydes and a ketone giving tetraynols in high yields.
C-1,C-2 Stereospecific Rearrangements of Aldohexoses by Calcium Ion in Basic Solution
Authors: Yanagihara Ryoji , Osanai Shuichi , Yoshikawa Sadao 
Published: May 2006

Abstract
In aqueous or methanolic solution containing Ca2+ and hydroxide ion, aldoses are rapidly epimerized at C-2. This reaction involves C-1,C-2 stereospecific rearrangement. [2-13C]-D-Mannose is formed from [1-13C]-D-glucose by this reaction.
Substituent Effect on the Gas Phase Basicity of α,α,α-Trifluoroacetophenone. Intrinsic Nature of Resonance Demand
Authors: Mishima Masaaki , Tsuno Yuho , Fujio Mizue 
Published: May 2006

Abstract
Gas-phase basicities (GB) of α,α,α-trifluoroacetophenones were determined by means of the pulsed ICR spectrometer. The substituent effect on the GB was correlated in terms of the LArSR Eq. with an r of 1.20. The r values for stabilities of a series of benzylic carbocation systems, ArC+(R1)R2, could be related to electronic effects of R1 and R2.
Heterometallic Zn2La and ZnLu Complexes Formed by Site-selective Transmetalation of a Dimeric Homotrinuclear Zinc(II) Complex
Authors: Akine Shigehisa , Taniguchi Takanori , Nabeshima Tatsuya 
Published: May 2006

Abstract
Transmetalation of a dimeric homotrinuclear zinc(II) complex [(3-MeOsalamo)2Zn3] with Lu3+ and La3+ afforded heterometallic dinuclear [(3-MeOsalamo)ZnLu]3+ and trinuclear [(3-MeOsalamo)2Zn2La]3+ complexes, respectively, whose structures were determined by X-ray crystallography. The transmetalation process was investigated by 1H NMR titrations.
Co-Contraction and Passive Forces Facilitate Load Compensation of Aimed Limb Movements
Authors: Zakotnik Jure , Matheson Tom , Dürr Volker 
Published: May 2006

Vertebrates and arthropods are both capable of load compensation during aimed limb movements, such as reaching and grooming. We measured the kinematics and activity of individual motoneurons in loaded and unloaded leg movements in an insect. To evaluate the role of active and passive musculoskeletal properties in aiming and load compensation, we used a neuromechanical model of the femur–tibia joint that transformed measured extensor and flexor motoneuron spikes into joint kinematics. The model comprises three steps: first, an activation dynamics module that determines the time course of isometric force; second, a pair of antagonistic muscle models that determine the joint torque; and third, a forward dynamics simulation that calculates the movement of the limb. The muscles were modeled in five variants, differing in the presence or absence of force–length–velocity characteristics of the contractile element, a parallel passive elastic element, and passive joint damping. Each variant was optimized to yield the best simulation of measured behavior.Passive muscle force and viscous joint damping were sufficient and necessary to simulate the observed movements. Elastic or damping properties of the active contractile element could not replace passive elements. Passive elastic forces were similar in magnitude to active forces caused by muscle contraction, generating substantial joint stiffness. Antagonistic muscles co-contract, although there was no motoneuronal coactivation, because of slow dynamics of muscle activation. We quantified how co-contraction simplified load compensation by demonstrating that a small variation of the motoneuronal input caused a large change in joint torque.