bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Granger Causality of Coupled Climate Processes: Ocean Feedback on the North Atlantic Oscillation
Authors: Mosedale Timothy J. , Stephenson David B. , Collins Matthew , Mills Terence C. 
Published: April 2006

Abstract
This study uses a Granger causality time series modeling approach to quantitatively diagnose the feedback of daily sea surface temperatures (SSTs) on daily values of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) as simulated by a realistic coupled general circulation model (GCM). Bivariate vector autoregressive time series models are carefully fitted to daily wintertime SST and NAO time series produced by a 50-yr simulation of the Third Hadley Centre Coupled Ocean–Atmosphere GCM (HadCM3). The approach demonstrates that there is a small yet statistically significant feedback of SSTs on the NAO. The SST tripole index is found to provide additional predictive information for the NAO than that available by using only past values of NAO—the SST tripole is Granger causal for the NAO. Careful examination of local SSTs reveals that much of this effect is due to the effect of SSTs in the region of the Gulf Steam, especially south of Cape Hatteras. The effect of SSTs on NAO is responsible for the slower-than-exponential decay in lag-autocorrelations of NAO notable at lags longer than 10 days. The persistence induced in daily NAO by SSTs causes long-term means of NAO to have more variance than expected from averaging NAO noise if there is no feedback of the ocean on the atmosphere. There are greater long-term trends in NAO than can be expected from aggregating just short-term atmospheric noise, and NAO is potentially predictable provided that future SSTs are known. For example, there is about 10%–30% more variance in seasonal wintertime means of NAO and almost 70% more variance in annual means of NAO due to SST effects than one would expect if NAO were a purely atmospheric process.
Differential effects of antigens from L. braziliensis isolates from disseminated and cutaneous leishmaniasis on in vitro cytokine production
Authors: Leopoldo Paulo TG , Machado Paulo RL , Almeida Roque P , Schriefer Albert , Giudice Angela , de Jesus Amélia Ribeiro , Ho John L , Guimarães Luiz Henrique , Bacellar Olívia , Carvalho Edgar M 
Published: April 2006

AbstractBackgroundDisseminated leishmaniasis is an emerging infectious disease, mostly due toL. braziliensis, which has clinical and histopathological features distinct from cutaneous leishmaniasis.MethodsIn the current study we evaluated thein vitroproduction of the cytokines IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-5 and IL-10 by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from 15 disseminated leishmaniasis and 24 cutaneous leishmaniasis patients upon stimulation withL. braziliensisantigens genotyped as disseminated leishmaniasis or cutaneous leishmaniasis isolates.ResultsRegardless of the source ofL. braziliensisantigens, PBMC from cutaneous leishmaniasis patients produced significantly higher IFN-γ than PBMC from disseminated leishmaniasis patients. Levels of TNF-α by PBMC from cutaneous leishmaniasis patients were significantly higher than disseminated leishmaniasis patients only when stimulated by genotyped cutaneous leishmaniasis antigens. The levels of IL-5 and IL-10 production by PBMC were very low and similar in PBMCs from both disseminated leishmaniasis and cutaneous leishmaniasis patients. The immune response of each patient evaluated by the twoL. braziliensisantigens was assessed in a paired analysis in which we showed thatL. braziliensisgenotyped as disseminated leishmaniasis isolate was more potent thanL. braziliensisgenotyped as cutaneous leishmaniasis isolate in triggering IFN-γ and TNF-α production in both diseases and IL-5 only in cutaneous leishmaniasis patients.ConclusionThis study provides evidence that antigens prepared from genotypically distinct strains ofL. braziliensisinduce different degrees of immune response. It also indicates that both parasite and host play a role in the outcome ofL. braziliensisinfection.
Cerebrovascular disease associated with antiphospholipid antibodies: more questions than answers
Authors: Hawkins Carolyn , Gatenby Paul , Tuck Roger , Danta Gytis , Andrews Colin 
Published: April 2006

Abstract
Neurological syndromes occur in a significant number of patients with antiphospholipid antibodies. The optimal management for these patients however remains uncertain.
Our study is a descriptive analysis looking retrospectively at 45 patients who presented to the principal tertiary referral centre in the Australian Capital Territory, with either cerebral arterial or venous thrombosis for which there was no obvious cause for their presentation when initially reviewed. The diagnosis was based on the clinical findings made by one of three neurologists attached to our centre. Radiological findings and the presence of either IgM or IgG anticardiolipin antibodies, IgG anti-beta-2 glycoprotein 1 antibodies or a lupus anticoagulant were then documented.
In this group of patients three subgroups were identified:
1. Individuals that fulfilled the Sapporo Classification Criteria
2. Individuals with transiently positive antiphospholipid antibodies and
3. Individuals with persistently low positive antiphospholipid antibodies.
The most interesting of these three groups are those individuals with transiently positive antiphospholipid antibodies. A potential cause for presentation was identified in only one patient of this group with documented infective endocarditis and bacteraemia. Comparison with the other two groups suggested that there was little in terms of clinical presentation, radiological findings or intercurrent risk factors for thrombotic disease to distinguish between them. With disappearance of antiphospholipid antibodies, the individuals within this group have not had further thrombotic events.
Our observations emphasise the problems that continue to exist in relation to the occurrence of cerebrovascular disease in the context of antiphospholipid antibodies and the optimal management of these stratified groups. Our findings also raise an as yet unanswered question as to the signficance of these transiently positive antiphospholipid antibodies. In the absence of significant intercurrent risk factors our findings would suggest that in the group we describe that they are likely to be of clinical significance.
The genome of Rhizobium leguminosarum has recognizable core and accessory components
Authors: Young J Peter W , Crossman Lisa C , Johnston Andrew WB , Thomson Nicholas R , Ghazoui Zara F , Hull Katherine H , Wexler Margaret , Curson Andrew RJ , Todd Jonathan D , Poole Philip S , Mauchline Tim H , East Alison K , Quail Michael A , Churcher Carol , Arrowsmith Claire , Cherevach Inna , Chillingworth Tracey , Clarke Kay , Cronin Ann , Davis Paul , Fraser Audrey , Hance Zahra , Hauser Heidi , Jagels Kay , Moule Sharon , Mungall Karen , Norbertczak Halina , Rabbinowitsch Ester , Sanders Mandy , Simmonds Mark , Whitehead Sally , Parkhill Julian 
Published: April 2006

Abstract
Background
Rhizobium leguminosarum is an α-proteobacterial N2-fixing symbiont of legumes that has been the subject of more than a thousand publications. Genes for the symbiotic interaction with plants are well studied, but the adaptations that allow survival and growth in the soil environment are poorly understood. We have sequenced the genome of R. leguminosarum biovar viciae strain 3841.

Results
The 7.75 Mb genome comprises a circular chromosome and six circular plasmids, with 61% G+C overall. All three rRNA operons and 52 tRNA genes are on the chromosome; essential protein-encoding genes are largely chromosomal, but most functional classes occur on plasmids as well. Of the 7,263 protein-encoding genes, 2,056 had orthologs in each of three related genomes (Agrobacterium tumefaciens, Sinorhizobium meliloti, and Mesorhizobium loti), and these genes were over-represented in the chromosome and had above average G+C. Most supported the rRNA-based phylogeny, confirming A. tumefaciens to be the closest among these relatives, but 347 genes were incompatible with this phylogeny; these were scattered throughout the genome but were over-represented on the plasmids. An unexpectedly large number of genes were shared by all three rhizobia but were missing from A. tumefaciens.

Conclusion
Overall, the genome can be considered to have two main components: a 'core', which is higher in G+C, is mostly chromosomal, is shared with related organisms, and has a consistent phylogeny; and an 'accessory' component, which is sporadic in distribution, lower in G+C, and located on the plasmids and chromosomal islands. The accessory genome has a different nucleotide composition from the core despite a long history of coexistence.
Protective effect of fasudil, a Rho-kinase inhibitor, on chemokine expression, leukocyte recruitment, and hepatocellular apoptosis in septic liver injury
Authors: Thorlacius Karin , Slotta Jan E , Laschke Matthias W , Wang Yusheng , Menger Michael D , Jeppsson Bengt , Thorlacius Henrik 
Published: April 2006

AbstractRho-kinase signaling regulates important features of inflammatory reactions. Herein, we investigated the effect and mechanisms of action of the Rho-kinase inhibitor fasudil in endotoxemic liver injury. C57/BL/6 mice were challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and D-galactosamine, with or without pretreatment with the Rho-kinase inhibitor fasudil. Six hours after endotoxin challenge, leukocyte-endothelium interactions in the hepatic microvasculature were studied by use of intravital fluorescence microscopy and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α); CXC chemokines as well as liver enzymes and apoptosis were determined. Administration of fasudil reduced LPS-induced leukocyte adhesion in postsinusoidal venules and sequestration in sinusoids. Moreover, we found that fasudil abolished extravascular infiltration of leukocytes as well as production of TNF-α and CXC chemokines in the liver of endotoxemic mice. Liver enzymes and hepatocellular apoptosis were markedly reduced, and sinusoidal perfusion was improved significantly in endotoxemic mice pretreated with fasudil. Our novel data document that fasudil is a potent inhibitor of endotoxin-induced expression of TNF-α and CXC chemokines as well as leukocyte infiltration and hepatocellular apoptosis in the liver. Based on the present findings, it is suggested that inhibition of the Rho-kinase signaling pathway may be a useful target in the treatment of septic liver injury.
Direct evidence of endothelial injury during cardiopulmonary bypass by demonstration of circulating endothelial cells
Authors: Schmid Franz-Xaver , Floerchinger Bernhard , Vudattu Nalini Kumar , Eissner Günther , Haubitz Marion , Holler Ernst , Andreesen Reinhard , Birnbaum Dietrich E 
Published: April 2006

Endothelial activation is considered a key process in the development of a whole body inflammatory response secondary to cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Increased levels of a multitude of soluble mediators have been described as being released during and after cardiac surgery. Circulating endothelial cells have recently been established as a novel marker of endothelial damage in a variety of vascular disorders. Blood samples from 20 patients undergoing elective coronary artery bypass surgery were obtained preoperatively and 1, 6, 12, 24, and 48 h after termination of CPB. Control samples were obtained from ten healthy volunteers. Circulating endothelial cells (CEC) were isolated with immunomagnetic anti-CD146-coated Dynabeads, and counted in a Nageotte chamber. Low numbers of CEC were observed in healthy control volunteers (12±6 cells/mL; median: 9 cells/mL). CEC numbers were already significantly elevated in all patients before CPB, and there was a further significant increase after weaning from CPB (maximum increase at 6 h after CPB: 73±30 cells/mL; range: 30-153 cells/mL, p < 0.001). The number of CEC provides further and direct evidence that CPB is associated with a pronounced endothelial injury and/or damage. CEC appear to be most useful markers for vascular endothelial activation because they are specific, stable, and circulating components of injured vessel wall.
Influence of hematocrit and pump prime on cerebral oxygen saturation in on-pump coronary revascularization
Authors: McCusker Kevin , Chalafant Anthony , de Foe Gordon , Gunaydin Serdar , Vijay Venkataramana 
Published: April 2006

Background: The couplings between cerebral oxygenation (rSO2), on-pump hematocrit and circuit prime are explored in this study. Methods: Thirty-eight consecutive patients undergoing coronary revascularization with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) were matched on preoperative hematocrit < 40% and >40% ( n=16). Similarly, six blood prime patients were matched with six crystalloid prime patients. Hematocrit and rSO2 levels were then compared on CPB. Results: The pre-operative hematocrit >40% group retained higher levels on pump run ( p < 0.01) and significantly higher rSO2 prior to CPB (64.8±9.6 versus 73.2±7.3), and on and off CPB (61.1±8.8 versus 67.4±6.4). Blood priming increased absolute rSO2 (2.3± 6.3 versus − 10.9±5.9) and% rSO2 (4.7±11.8 versus −14.2±7.4%) in the low hematocrit group. Conclusion: Blood primes are instrumental in high-risk and low preoperative hematocrit patients in preventing cerebral oxygen desaturation during initiation and maintenance of CPB.
High Luminance in Organic Electroluminescent Devices with Bis(10-hydroxybenzo[h]quinolinato)beryllium as an Emitter
Authors: Hamada Yuji , Sano Takeshi , Fujita Masayuki , Fujii Takanon , Nishio Yoshitaka , Shibata Kenichi 
Published: April 2006

Abstract
An organic electroluminescent (EL) devices with bis(10-hydroxybenzo[h]quinolinate) beryllium (Bebq2) as an emitter was fabricated. A device structure of [ITO/hole transport layer/emitting layer/MgIn] was employed. Its color was green, and its emission peak was 516 nm. This device offered high performance with a luminance of 1.9 × 104 cd/m2 and a luminous efficiency of 3.5 lm/W.
Synthesis of Novel π-Conjugated Polymer Containing Porphyrins
Authors: Aota Hiroyuki , Itai Yasuyuki , Matsumoto Akira , Kamachi Mikiharu 
Published: April 2006

Abstract
Polymers containing porphyrins were synthesized from pyrrole, 1-dodecanal, and (2-formyl-5,10,15,20-tetraphenylporphyrinato)oxovanadium(IV) or 2,8,12,18-tetraethyl-3,7,13,17-tetramethyl-5,10-dipyrrylporphine. The number-average molecular weights of the resulting polymers were about 3000. NMR and absorption spectral data show the formation of the π-conjugated polymer.
Synthesis, Molecular Structure and Reactions of a Novel μ-σ,π-Cyclopentadienediyl Platinum-Manganese Complex
Authors: Onitsuka Kiyotaka , Hosokawa Naoki , Adachi Tomohiro , Yoshida Toshikatsu , Sonogashira Kenkichi 
Published: April 2006

Abstract
A novel σ,π-cyclopentadienediyl-bridged dinuclear complex {μ-η1,η5-C5H4Pt(COD)Cl}Mn(CO)3 (COD = 1,5-cyclooctadiene) (3), of which structure was determined by X-ray crystallography, was prepared by the reaction between (η5-C5H4SnMe3)Mn(CO)3 and Pt(COD)Cl2. The reaction of 3 with phosphine caused the ligand exchange reaction to give {μ-η1,η5-C5H4Pt(PR3)Cl}Mn(CO)3 (4). On treatment of complex 4b (R = Et) with carbon monoxide acyl complex {η5-C5H4COPt(PR3)Cl}Mn(CO)3 was obtained.
Layer-by-Layer Assembly of Alternate Protein/Polyion Ultrathin Films
Authors: Lvov Yuri , Ariga Katsuhiko , Kunitake Toyoki 
Published: April 2006

Abstract
Layer-by-layer assembly of multilayer films was realized by means of alternate adsorption of positively charged globular proteins (myoglobin or lysozyme) and anionic poly(styrenesulfonate). Regular growth during at least 20 alternate adsorption cycles was proved by means of UV spectroscopy and quartz crystal microbalance. Superlattices containing alternate layers of both myoglobin and lysozyme were similarly prepared.
Total Synthesis of (−)-Cotylenol, a Fungal Metabolite Having a Leaf Growth Activity
Authors: Okamoto Hiroaki , Arita Hiroaki , Kato Nobuo , Takeshita Hitoshi 
Published: April 2006

Abstract
Cotylenol, one of the representative fusicoccane diterpenoids having 5-8-5-membered tricyclic carbon framework, is now synthesized for the first time via an eight-membered ring formation by an intramolecular ene reaction followed by an oxidative formation of the 8β,9α-glycol function on the central eight-membered ring.
The effect of alkaline phosphatase inhibitors on intracellular lipid accumulation in preadipocytes isolated from human mammary tissue
Authors: Ali Aus T , Penny Clem B , Paiker Janice E , Psaras George , Ikram Faisel , Crowther Nigel J 
Published: April 2006

Background: A previous study has demonstrated that alkaline phosphatase (AP) may play a role in the control of intracellular lipid accumulation in the rodent preadipocyte cell line, 3T3-L1. The present study investigated whether AP may have a similar function in preadipocytes isolated from human mammary gland tissue. Methods: Preadipocyte maturation was induced in the presence or absence of the tissue non-specific AP inhibitors levamisole and histidine, and the tissue-specific AP inhibitor PheGlyGly. Cellular AP activity and adipogenesis were both assessed at 0 and 12 days post-induction of differentiation. Results: After differentiation, AP activity increased 5.1±1.3-fold in the absence and 8.9±2.8-fold ( P<0.05) in the presence of levamisole. However, adipogenesis increased 1.95±0.11-fold in the absence but only 1.36±0.06-fold ( P<0.001) in the presence of levamisole. There was a 4.2±2.2-fold increase in AP activity in the absence and a 0.51±0.46-fold ( P<0.05) decrease in the presence of histidine. Adipogenesis increased 2.09±0.35-fold in the absence of histidine but only 1.22±0.30-fold ( P<0.05) in the presence of histidine. PheGlyGly had no effects. Fluorescent microscopy showed AP activity was localized to the triglyceride-containing droplets of the cell. Conclusion: This is the first study to show that tissue non-specific AP inhibitors can block adipogenesis in human preadipocytes.
Hyperhomocysteinaemia, methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase polymorphism and risk of coronary artery disease
Authors: Kerkeni Mohsen , Addad Faouzi , Chauffert Maryline , Myara Anne , Gerhardt Marie , Chevenne Didier , Trivin François , Farhat Mohamed Ben , Miled Abdelhedi , Maaroufi Khira 
Published: April 2006

Background: Hyperhomocysteinaemia is an independent, graded risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD). The methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) polymorphism is associated with hyperhomcysteinaemia and may therefore influence individual susceptibility to CAD. We have investigated this risk factor in a Tunisian Arab population. Methods: Polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis was used to detect the C677T and A1298C variants of the MTHFR gene in 100 patients with CAD and 120 healthy controls. The severity of CAD was expressed as the number of affected vessels. Plasma total homocysteine (tHcy) concentration was determined using a direct chemiluminescence assay. Results: MTHFR CC, CT and TT genotype frequencies in the CAD group were significantly different from those observed in the control group (49%, 35% and 16% versus 48.3%, 45.8% and 5.8%, respectively; P=0.031). However, MTHFR AA, AC and CC genotypes frequencies in the CAD group were not significantly different from the control group ( P = 0.568). Patients with CAD showed higher plasma tHcy concentrations than patients without CAD (15.86±8.63 μmol/L versus 11.90 ± 3.25 μmol/L, P<0.001). There was no association between the MTHFR polymorphisms and the number of stenosed vessels. Patients with the MTHFR TT genotype had higher plasma tHcy, serum creatinine, cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations than patients with the MTHFR CC genotype. Conclusions: The C677T polymorphism of the MTHFR gene is associated with hyperhomocysteinaemia, lipid dysregulation and the presence of CAD in this Tunisian Arab population.
Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs During Third Trimester and the Risk of Premature Closure of the Ductus Arteriosus: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Koren Gideon , Florescu Ana , Costei Adriana Moldovan , Boskovic Radinka , Moretti Myla E 
Published: April 2006

Background: Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are increasingly being used during pregnancy to treat a variety of conditions. An evaluation of the risk of premature closure of the ductus arteriosus is useful in determining the safety of NSAIDs at different stages of pregnancy. Objective: To determine whether NSAID use during the third trimester of pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of premature constriction of the ductus arteriosus. Methods: A systematic review was conducted of MEDLINE (1966–2004), Embase (1980–2004), and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (1991–2004). Summary estimates of the odds ratios, comparing ductal outcomes in exposed and unexposed fetuses, and their 95% confidence intervals were calculated assuming a random effects model. Results: Based on 217 patients exposed to indomethacin and 221 to placebo, the risk of ductal closure was 15-fold higher in the group of women exposed to NSAIDs compared with those receiving either placebo or other NSAIDs (8 studies; OR = 15.04, 95% CI 3.29 to 68.68). There was no significant increased risk of ductal closure in the infants of women treated with indomethacin compared with those receiving other drugs (4 studies; OR = 2.12, 95% CI 0.48 to 9.25). Similar results were found when calculating rate differences. Conclusions: Short-term use of NSAIDs in late pregnancy is associated with a significant increase in the risk of premature ductal closure.
Propofol-Induced Priapism, a Case Confirmed with Rechallenge
Authors: Vesta Kimi S , Martina Shaunta' D , Kozlowski Ellen A 
Published: April 2006

Objective: To report a case of propofol-induced priapism. Case Summary: A 17-year-old male receiving propofol for induction of anesthesia during a cardiac ablation procedure developed priapism that required medical intervention and discontinuation of propofol. The priapism developed after a total propofol dose of 550 mg, lasted for 2 hours, and resolved immediately following medical intervention. The following day, the patient underwent a transesophageal echocardiogram and received a total propofol dose of 40 mg throughout the procedure. He again developed priapism, which resolved within one hour without medical intervention. Discussion: Priapism experienced by this patient is considered to be drug-induced because of the temporal relationship, recurrence with rechallenge, and dose–response relationship. Using the Naranjo probability scale, we determined that propofol was a highly probable causative agent of priapism in this patient. Conclusions: Although, as of April 4, 2006, this adverse effect has not been previously reported, there is a strong correlation of propofol to priapism in this patient. Clinicians should be aware of this adverse effect.