bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Widespread mRNA polyadenylation events in introns indicate dynamic interplay between polyadenylation and splicing
Authors: Tian Bin , Pan Zhenhua , Lee Ju Youn
Published: January 2007

mRNA polyadenylation and pre-mRNA splicing are two essential steps for the maturation of most human mRNAs. Studies have shown that some genes generate mRNA variants involving both alternative polyadenylation and alternative splicing. Polyadenylation in introns can lead to conversion of an internal exon to a 3′ terminal exon, which is termed composite terminal exon, or usage of a 3′ terminal exon that is otherwise skipped, which is termed skipped terminal exon. Using cDNA/EST and genome sequences, we identified polyadenylation sites in introns for all currently known human genes. We found that ∼20% human genes have at least one intronic polyadenylation event that can potentially lead to mRNA variants, most of which encode different protein products. The conservation of human intronic poly(A) sites in mouse and rat genomes is lower than that of poly(A) sites in 3′-most exons. Quantitative analysis of a number of mRNA variants generated by intronic poly(A) sites suggests that the intronic polyadenylation activity can vary under different cellular conditions for most genes. Furthermore, we found that weak 5′ splice site and large intron size are the determining factors controlling the usage of composite terminal exon poly(A) sites, whereas skipped terminal exon poly(A) sites tend to be associated with strong polyadenylation signals. Thus, our data indicate that dynamic interplay between polyadenylation and splicing leads to widespread polyadenylation in introns and contributes to the complexity of transcriptome in the cell.
Comparative genomic analysis identifies an evolutionary shift of vomeronasal receptor gene repertoires in the vertebrate transition from water to land
Authors: Shi Peng , Zhang Jianzhi
Published: January 2007

Two evolutionarily unrelated superfamilies of G-protein coupled receptors, V1Rs and V2Rs, bind pheromones and “ordinary” odorants to initiate vomeronasal chemical senses in vertebrates, which play important roles in many aspects of an organism’s daily life such as mating, territoriality, and foraging. To study the macroevolution of vomeronasal sensitivity, we identified all V1R and V2R genes from the genome sequences of 11 vertebrates. Our analysis suggests the presence of multiple V1R and V2R genes in the common ancestor of teleost fish and tetrapods and reveals an exceptionally large among-species variation in the sizes of these gene repertoires. Interestingly, the ratio of the number of intact V1R genes to that of V2R genes increased by ∼50-fold as land vertebrates evolved from aquatic vertebrates. A similar increase was found for the ratio of the number of class II odorant receptor (OR) genes to that of class I genes, but not in other vertebrate gene families. Because V1Rs and class II ORs have been suggested to bind to small airborne chemicals, whereas V2Rs and class I ORs recognize water-soluble molecules, these increases reflect a rare case of adaptation to terrestrial life at the gene family level. Several gene families known to function in concert with V2Rs in the mouse are absent outside rodents, indicating rapid changes of interactions between vomeronasal receptors and their molecular partners. Taken together, our results demonstrate the exceptional evolutionary fluidity of vomeronasal receptors, making them excellent targets for studying the molecular basis of physiological and behavioral diversity and adaptation.
Construction of Smoking‐Relevant Risk Perceptions Among College Students: The Influence of Need for Cognition and Message Content1
Authors: Vidrine Jennifer Irvin , Simmons Vani Nath , Brandon Thomas H.
Published: January 2007

Changing smokers' health‐risk perceptions has been difficult. This study tested whether need for cognition (NC)—a factor within Petty & Cacioppo's (1986) elaboration likelihood model that reflects the preference for effortful cognitive information processing—moderated responses to a smoking risk message intervention. College smokers (n=227) evaluated a fact‐based or emotion‐based smoking risk pamphlet or a control pamphlet. Among occasional but not daily smokers, NC interacted as hypothesized with type of message to moderate risk perceptions. Among participants with higher NC, the fact‐based message produced the greatest increase in risk perception; whereas among participants with lower NC, the emotion‐based message produced the greatest change. Findings demonstrate that individual differences in cognitive processing can influence the potency of health‐risk messages.
The Role of Death Qualification in Jurors' Susceptibility to Pretrial Publicity1
Authors: Butler Brooke
Published: January 2007

Two hundred residents of Florida's 12thJudicial Circuit completed questions measuring participants' level of death‐penalty support, death‐qualification status, knowledge of the facts surrounding an actual capital case, and attitudes toward the defendant in the aforementioned capital case. Results indicated that death‐qualified participants were better able to correctly identify the defendant, recognize most of the factual details of the case, think that the defendant was guilty, and recommend the death penalty. In addition, death‐qualified jurors were more likely to feel that the pretrial publicity surrounding the case would have minimal impact on the defendant's right to due process. Legal applications and implications are discussed.
The Effects of Acute Alcohol Intoxication on Person Memory: The Stereotypical Drunk1
Authors: Cunningham Sheila J. , Milne Alan B. , Crawford John R.
Published: January 2007

Research has suggested that acute alcohol intoxication disrupts cognitive functioning by reducing the availability of executive resources for person perception. The present study tested the prediction that this effect would increase stereotype application during impression formation by reducing the encoding of nonstereotypical information. Participants were instructed to complete an impression‐formation task following consumption of low, medium, or high doses of alcohol. This task involved the encoding of both stereotypical and neutral material. A subsequent free‐recall test demonstrated that alcohol significantly decreased participants' encoding of neutral information, but did not affect the memorability of stereotypical information. These findings are discussed in relation to models of both stereotyping and alcohol intoxication.
Transforming growth factor‐β1 ‐509T reduces risk of colorectal cancer, but not adenoma in Koreans
Authors: Chung Su J. , Kim Joo S. , Jung Hyun C. , Song In S.
Published: January 2007

The proliferation of colorectal epithelial cells is regulated by various stimuli including cytokines and growth factors, thus the variants of those genes can modify the colorectal cancer risk. TGF‐β1 can act as both a tumor suppressor and a stimulator of tumor progression. TGF‐β1 C‐509T polymorphism in the promoter sequence has been associated with increased levels of plasma TGF‐β1 in individuals with T allele. To evaluate the potential influences of this polymorphism on colorectal adenoma and cancer risk, a case‐control study was conducted in Korea. A total of 646 subjects were prospectively enrolled in Seoul National University Hospital. Risk of colorectal neoplasms was evaluated separately for 244 patients with colorectal adenoma, 152 patients with colorectal cancer relative to 250 healthy controls. Genotypes were determined by the PCR‐RFLP method. ORs and 95% CIs were calculated by a multivariate logistic regression analysis. The TGF‐β1 ‐509T allele containing genotypes posed a reduced risk of colorectal cancer (adjusted OR = 0.59, 95% CI = 0.28–0.92). But there was no association between this polymorphism and colorectal adenoma. Our results suggest that the TGF‐β1 ‐509T allele may have a protective role in the development of colorectal cancer, possibly consistent with its role as an inhibitor of epithelial malignant transformation. (Cancer Sci 2007; 98: 401–404)
Overexpression of soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1 in colorectal cancer: Association with progression and prognosis
Authors: Yamaguchi Tatsuro , Bando Hiroko , Mori Takeo , Takahashi Keiichi , Matsumoto Hiroshi , Yasutome Michiya , Weich Herbert A. , Toi Masakazu
Published: January 2007

We examined the expression of sVEGFR1 in colorectal cancer tissue and corresponding normal colorectal mucosa to assess the clinical significance of sVEGFR1 in colorectal cancer. We also assessed the relationship between sVEGFR1 levels and various clinicopathologic factors and prognoses. sVEGFR1 and VEGF levels were measured in fresh‐frozen tumor extracts from 84 primary colorectal cancer tissues and 27 corresponding normal mucosa using ELISA. Mean of sVEGFR1 levels were 3.17 ng/mg protein. sVEGFR1 levels increased significantly in cancer tissue compared with normal mucosa. Although VEGF levels increased in cancer tissues, the ratio of sVEGFR1/VEGF in cancer tissue was significantly lower than that in normal tissue. No significant correlation between sVEGFR1 or VEGF levels and any clinicopathologic parameter was found. Overexpression of sVEGFR1 was significantly associated with a favorable prognosis. Based on sVEGFR1 levels in colorectal cancer without distant metastases, patients with higher sVEGFR1 levels (≥1.5 ng/mg protein) demonstrated significant longer recurrence‐free survival than patients with lower sVEGFR1 levels (<1.5 ng/mg protein) (P = 0.0017). Multivariate analysis showed that the sVEGFR1 levels in cancer tissue were an independent prognostic indicator of disease progression. sVEGFR1 expression was significantly elevated in colorectal cancer tissue compared with normal mucosa and the intratumoral balance between sVEGFR1 and VEGF was significantly different between tumor tissue and normal controls. Furthermore, sVEGFR1 levels showed a significant prognostic value. Further studies concerning the biologic and therapeutic significance of sVEGFR1 in colorectal cancer are warranted. (Cancer Sci 2007; 98: 405–410)
Anaesthetists' management of oxygen pipeline failure: room for improvement*
Authors: Weller J. , Merry A. , Warman G. , Robinson B.
Published: January 2007

Oxygen pipeline failure is a rare but potentially catastrophic event which can affect the care of patients throughout an entire hospital. Anaesthetists play a critical role in maintaining patient safety, and should be prepared to support an institution‐wide emergency response if oxygen failure occurs. We tested the preparedness for this through observation of 20 specialist anaesthetists to a standardised simulator scenario of central oxygen supply failure. Responses were documented using multiple approaches to ensure accuracy. All anaesthetists demonstrated safe immediate patient care, but we observed a number of deviations from optimal management, including failure to conserve oxygen supplies and, following restoration of gas supplies, failure to test the composition of the gas supplied from the repaired pipelines. This has implications for patient care at both individual and hospital level. Our results indicate a gap in anaesthesia training which should be addressed, in conjunction with planning for effective hospital‐wide responses to the event of critical resource failure.
Reticulocyte haemoglobin content vs. soluble transferrin receptor and ferritin index in iron deficiency anaemia accompanied with inflammation
Authors: MARKOVIĆ M. , MAJKIĆ‐SINGH N. , IGNJATOVIĆ S. , SINGH S.
Published: January 2007

Ferritin concentration, as a parameter of iron status that is commonly used in the diagnosis of iron deficiency anaemia (IDA), often has limited values if the iron deficiency is accompanied by inflammatory disease. This study evaluated the value of reticulocyte haemoglobin content (CHr) and soluble transferrin receptor–ferritin index (sTfR/F) in the diagnosis of IDA and differential diagnosis of IDA and anaemia of chronic disease. The study included 66 nonanaemic individuals as controls, 86 patients with IDA divided into noninflammatory and inflammatory subgroups, and 32 patients with anaemia of chronic disease. Blood count, iron, transferrin saturation, total iron binding capacity, ferritin, C‐reactive protein, sTfR and CHr were determined. Receiver operator characteristic curve analysis showed very high discriminating power for CHr, soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR) and sTfR/F in the diagnosis of IDA. In patients with anaemia of chronic disease these parameters showed no significant difference from the control. CHr and sTfR enabled recognition of iron deficiency and were not affected by acute phase reaction. They are sensitive markers of body iron status with additional value to conventional tests for the detection of iron deficiency.
Effects of short‐ and long‐term water‐level drawdown on the populations and activity of aerobic decomposers in a boreal peatland
Authors: JAATINEN KRISTA , FRITZE HANNU , LAINE JUKKA , LAIHO RAIJA
Published: January 2007

We analysed the response of microbial communities, characterized by phospholipid fatty acids (PLFAs), to changing hydrological conditions at sites with different nutrient levels in a southern boreal peatland. Although PLFAs of Gram‐negative bacteria were characteristic of the peatland complex, microbial communities differed among sites (ombrotrophic bog, oligotrophic fen, mesotrophic fen) and sampling depths (0–5, 5–10, 10–20, 20–30 cm). The microbial communities in each site changed significantly following water‐level drawdown. The patterns of change varied among sites and sampling depths. The relative proportion of Gram‐negative bacteria decreased in the upper 10 cm but increased in deeper layers of the fen sites. Fungi benefited from water‐level drawdown in the upper 5 cm of the mesotrophic fen, but suffered in the drier surfaces of the ombrotrophic bog, especially in the 5–10 cm layer. In contrast, actinobacteria suffered from water‐level drawdown in the mesotrophic fen, but benefited in the drier surfaces of the ombrotrophic bog. Basal respiration rate correlated positively with pH and fungal PLFA, and negatively with depth. We suggest that the changes in microbial community structure after persistent water‐level drawdown follow not only the hydrological conditions but also the patterns of vegetation change. Our results imply that changes in structure and activity of the microbial community in response to climate change will be strongly dependent on the type of peatland.
Representations for semantic learning webs: Semantic Web technology in learning support
Authors: Dzbor M. , Stutt A. , Motta E. , Collins T.
Published: January 2007

Abstract
Recent work on applying semantic technologies to learning has concentrated on providing novel means of accessing and making use of learning objects. However, this is unnecessarily limiting: semantic technologies will make it possible to develop a range of educational Semantic Web services, such as interpretation, structure‐visualization, support for argumentation, novel forms of content customization, novel mechanisms for aggregating learning material, citation services and so on. In this paper, we outline an initial framework that extends the use of semantic technologies as a means of providing learning services that are owned and created by learning communities.
Is oak establishment in old‐fields and savanna openings context dependent?
Authors: DICKIE IAN A. , SCHNITZER S. A. , REICH P. B. , HOBBIE S. E.
Published: January 2007

Multiple factors are known to influence tree seedling establishment, yet the degree to which these factors depend on each other and on spatial context is largely unknown. We examined the influence of herbaceous competition and water and nitrogen limitations on tree seedling establishment as functions of distance from trees (within‐site spatial context) and site history (between‐site spatial context; as old‐fields vs. savanna openings).

We grew Quercus ellipsoidalis E.J. Hill (pin oak) and Q. macrocarpa Michx. (bur oak) seedlings for 3 years in abandoned agricultural fields and savannas in central Minnesota, USA, near and distant from adult oak trees, with and without water and nitrogen resource additions, and with and without clipping of herbaceous vegetation (reducing above‐ground competition).

The strongest treatment effects were found in response to distance from trees and clipping herbaceous vegetation. Ectomycorrhizal infection, year 1 foliar N concentrations, and survival were greater in seedlings growing near vs. distant from adult trees, while clipping herbaceous vegetation increased above‐ground seedling biomass but reduced seedling heights, regardless of distance from adult trees.

There were conflicting effects of resource addition, which were dependent on clipping of herbaceous vegetation and site (savanna vs. old‐field).

Distance from adult trees and clipping herbaceous vegetation appear to have largely independent effects. Thus, while being near trees benefits seedlings, probably via increased mycorrhizal infection, competition from herbaceous vegetation limits seedlings regardless of distance from trees. In contrast, the effects of resource addition were more context dependent, interacting significantly with herbaceous context and site.

The factors influencing seedling success can perhaps be best conceptualized as a series of largely independent environmental filters: seedlings near trees have increased mycorrhizal infection, nutrient uptake and survival, but face competition from herbaceous vegetation regardless of distance from trees. The slow encroachment of woody vegetation into old‐fields and savanna openings in this region is likely to be the result of the net cumulative effect of such filters.
Effects of landscape heterogeneity on the emerging forest disease sudden oak death
Authors: CONDESO T. EMIKO , MEENTEMEYER ROSS K.
Published: January 2007

Sudden oak death is an emerging forest disease caused by the pathogen Phytophthora ramorum that is invading the west coast of the United States and semi‐natural areas in Europe. This disease causes lethal stem infections in oaks (Quercus spp.) and tanoak (Lithocarpus densiflorus), as well as non‐lethal foliar infections in a range of other species.

We investigated two questions to evaluate the effect of landscape structure on the spread of P. ramorum: (i) does the spatial pattern of forested habitat predict P. ramorum disease severity, and is this relationship scale‐dependent; and (ii) what influence does spatial pattern have on the optimal microclimate conditions for P. ramorum reproduction?

We mapped the spatial distribution of suitable forest habitat for P. ramorum and established 86 randomly located field plots within a 20‐km2 region of northern California. For each plot, we quantified P. ramorum disease severity and measured the abundance of woody species. Disease severity in each plot was examined in relation to the surrounding landscape structure measured for nested landscapes of increasing scale.

P. ramorum disease severity was greatest in plots surrounded by a high proportion of contiguous forest, after accounting for plot‐level variables of host abundance, elevation, canopy cover and microclimate. The explanatory power of the model increased with increasing scale up to 200 m, but was not significant at scales less than 50 m.

High disease severity was associated with lower temperatures in the field than the laboratory‐determined optimal range for pathogen reproduction. Variation in microclimate conditions was explained by elevation, not the pattern of host vegetation, indicating that spatially varying disease severity was not a function of microclimate‐related edge effects on pathogen growth and survival.

Both landscape‐scale configuration and local composition of host habitat are related to the severity of this destructive forest disease. Increased disease severity within contiguous woodlands may have a considerable impact on the composition of such woodlands, with cascading effects on the population dynamics of both host and pathogen.
Sexual relationships in adults with intellectual disabilities: understanding the law
Authors: O’Callaghan A. C. , Murphy G. H.
Published: January 2007

Introduction  Adults with intellectual disabilities (IDs) are known to be very vulnerable to sexual abuse. This may result partly from their lack of sexual knowledge and their powerless position in society. It could also be exacerbated by an ignorance of the law. This study investigates their understanding of the law relating to sexuality.

Method  Understanding of the law regarding sexual relationships, consent and abuse was assessed in 60 adults with IDs (mean age 37.6 years) and 60 young people aged 16–18 years (deemed in law capable of consenting to a sexual relationship). Questions were wide ranging, including general laws around sexuality and abuse, as well as the law relating to sexual relationships and ID.

Results  There were significant differences between the two groups: adults with IDs had a very limited understanding of the general laws relating to sexuality (e.g. age of consent, incest, abuse), as well as the law relating to sexuality and IDs (e.g. whether they could have sexual relationships, whether they were allowed to marry, what protection they should expect from the law). Young people without disabilities showed a better understanding, both for general laws and for those relating specifically to adults with IDs.

Conclusions  These findings show that there is a need to educate people with IDs about the laws relating to sexuality. It is important for people to understand the law and, given the high rates of sexual abuse perpetrated against people with ID, it is essential for them to benefit from the protection the law affords. The new law in England (Sexual Offences Act 2003) post‐dated this study. It will be interesting to see whether the new legislation is easier for people with and without disabilities to understand.
Involvement of the xyloglucan endotransglycosylase/hydrolases encoded by celery XTH1 and Arabidopsis XTH33 in the phloem response to aphids
Authors: DIVOL FANCHON , VILAINE FRANÇOISE , THIBIVILLIERS SANDRA , KUSIAK CHANTAL , SAUGE MARIE HELENE , DINANT SYLVIE
Published: January 2007

During infestation, phloem‐feeding insects induce transcriptional reprogramming in plants that may lead to protection. Transcripts of the celery XTH1 gene, encoding a xyloglucan endotransglycosylase/hydrolase (XTH), were previously found to accumulate systemically in celery (Apium graveolens) phloem, following infestation with the generalist aphid Myzus persicae. XTH1 induction was specific to the phloem but was not correlated with an increase in xyloglucan endotransglycosylase (XET) activity in the phloem. XTH1 is homologous to the Arabidopsis thaliana XTH33 gene. XTH33 expression was investigated following M. persicae infestation. The pattern of XTH33 expression is tightly controlled during development and indicates a possible role in cell expansion. An xth33 mutant was assayed for preference assay with M. persicae. Aphids settled preferentially on the mutant rather than on the wild type. This suggests that XTH33 is involved in protecting plants against aphids; therefore, that cell wall modification can alter the preference of aphids for a particular plant. Nevertheless, the ectopic expression of XTH33 in phloem tissue was not sufficient to confer protection, demonstrating that modifying the expression of this single gene does not readily alter plant–aphid interactions.
Central venous catheter placement by an interventional radiology unit: An Australian experience
Authors: Lee MKS , Mossop PJ , Vrazas JI
Published: January 2007

The aim of this retrospective study was to analyse the outcomes of central venous catheter (CVC) placement carried out by an interventional radiology unit. A review of our hospital records identified 331 consecutive patients who underwent insertion of a tunnelled or non‐tunnelled CVC between January 2000 and December 2004. Key outcome measures included the technical success rate of CVC insertion and the percentage of immediate (<24 h), early (24 h–30 days) and late (>30 days) complications. A total of 462 CVCs were placed under radiological guidance, with an overall success rate of 98.9%. Immediate complications included one pneumothorax, which was diagnosed 7 days after subclavian CVC insertion, and eight episodes of significant haematoma or bleeding within 24 h of CVC insertion. No cases were complicated by arterial puncture or air embolus. Catheter‐related sepsis occurred in 2% of non‐tunnelled CVC and 8.9% of tunnelled CVC. The overall incidence of catheter‐related sepsis was 0.17 per 100 catheter days. As the demand for chemotherapy and haemodialysis grows with our ageing population, interventional radiology suites are well placed to provide a safe and reliable service for the placement of central venous access devices.
Diabetes risk in British adults in mid life: a national prevalence study of glycated haemoglobin
Authors: Thomas C. , Hyppönen E. , Power C.
Published: January 2007

Aims  Information on the population at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes in the UK is scarce. We used data from the 1958 British birth cohort to estimate geographical and socio‐economic variations in HbA1c in mid life.

Methods  Participants (n = 7799) born in England, Scotland and Wales and currently living in the UK. Individuals were classified according to the presence of Type 2 diabetes and by thresholds of HbA1c. HbA1c≥ 5.5 was used as an indicator for possible subclinical alterations in glucose metabolism.

Results  The majority of the population had HbA1c < 5.5% (79.3%); 16.7% had HbA1c 5.5–5.9%, 2.0% 6.0–6.9% and 0.6% had HbA1c≥ 7.0%. Individuals from manual socio‐economic groups and those living in the East of England and Scotland had a higher prevalence of HbA1c at or above the upper normal range (5.5%).

Conclusions  Estimates from this nationwide sample suggest that a proportion of Britons are likely to have subclinical alterations in glucose metabolism by their mid 40s, and this proportion is greater in some socio‐economic groups and geographical regions than in others.
The UK Diabetes Research Network—an opportunity and a challenge
Authors: Matthews D. R. , Kennedy E. D. , Darbyshire J. H. , Johnston D. G.
Published: January 2007

The Department of Health has funded a national diabetes network to support clinical research. The network will facilitate recruitment into clinical trials and has been widely welcomed by clinicians. However, if the network is to reach its full potential, all those involved will need to advocate a change in attitude towards clinical trials and research, encouraging participation and contribution of data. Clinicians need to be willing to take a proactive view about research studies, and to encourage patients to adopt a positive and altruistic attitude towards trial participation. The future of trials and other important clinical research in the UK may depend on it.
Asymmetrical dimethylarginine is related to renal function, chronic inflammation and macroangiopathy in patients with Type 2 diabetes and albuminuria
Authors: Krzyzanowska K. , Mittermayer F. , Shnawa N. , Hofer M. , Schnabler J. , Etmüller Y. , Kapiotis S. , Wolzt M. , Schernthaner G.
Published: January 2007

Aims  Patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and micro‐ and macroalbuminuria are at increased cardiovascular risk. The endogenous nitric oxide synthase inhibitor asymmetrical dimethylarginine (ADMA) is increased in renal failure and could promote atherosclerosis. To determine the relationship between ADMA, renal albumin excretion rate (AER) and cardiovascular risk, we studied 103 T2DM patients.

Methods  ADMA, symmetrical dimethylarginine (SDMA) and L‐arginine were determined by high‐performance liquid chromatography in plasma from 36 normo‐, 40 micro‐ and 27 macroalbuminuric patients with T2DM (age 64 ± 11 years; 38 women) who had comparable age, sex and metabolic parameters. Forty‐six patients had macrovascular disease (MVD).

Results  ADMA was significantly increased in patients with micro‐ and macroalbuminuria [median 0.61 (interquartile range 0.55–0.70) µmol/l and 0.62 (0.50–0.79) µmol/l, respectively] compared with those with normoalbuminuria [0.55 (0.48–0.63) µmol/l; both P < 0.05]. SDMA was elevated in micro‐ and macroalbuminuria [0.57 (0.42–0.80) µmol/l and 0.64 (0.50–0.96) µmol/l] compared with normoalbuminuric subjects [0.44 (0.37–0.53) µmol/l; both P < 0.01]. Patients with increased AER and MVD had higher ADMA and SDMA compared with those without MVD (both P < 0.001). L‐arginine was comparable between all groups. ADMA correlated significantly with high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hsCRP) and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) but not with the extent of albumin excretion, body mass index, fasting glucose, HbA1c or plasma lipids.

Conclusions  Increased ADMA in T2DM patients with albuminuria is linked to cardiovascular disease and is associated with renal dysfunction and subclinical inflammation.
Association of diabetes‐related emotional distress with diabetes treatment in primary care patients with Type 2 diabetes
Authors: Delahanty L. M. , Grant R. W. , Wittenberg E. , Bosch J. L. , Wexler D. J. , Cagliero E. , Meigs J. B.
Published: January 2007

Aims  To characterize the determinants of diabetes‐related emotional distress by treatment modality (diet only, oral medication only, or insulin).

Methods  A total of 815 primary care patients with Type 2 diabetes completed the Problem Areas in Diabetes (PAID) Scale and other questions. We linked survey data to a diabetes clinical research database and used linear regression models to assess the associations of treatment with PAID score.

Results  PAID scores were significantly higher among insulin‐treated (24.6) compared with oral‐treated (17.8, P < 0.001) or diet‐treated patients (14.7, P < 0.001), but not different between oral‐ vs. diet‐treated patients (P = 0.2). Group scores remained similar, but the statistical significance of their differences was reduced and ultimately eliminated after sequential adjustment for diabetes severity, HbA1c, body mass index, regimen adherence, and self‐blood‐glucose monitoring. Insulin‐treated patients reported significantly higher distress than oral‐ or diet‐treated patients on 16 of 20 PAID items. ‘Worrying about the future’ and ‘guilt/anxiety when … off track with diabetes’ were the top two serious problems (PAID ≥ 5) in all treatment groups. Not accepting diabetes diagnosis was a top concern for oral‐ and diet‐treated patients, and unclear management goals distressed diet‐treated patients.

Conclusions  Primary care patients treated with insulin reported higher diabetes‐related emotional distress compared with oral‐ or diet‐treated patients. Greater distress was largely explained by greater disease severity and self‐care burdens. To improve diabetes‐specific quality of life, clinicians should address patients’ sense of worry and guilt, uncertain acceptance of diabetes diagnosis, and unclear treatment goals.
Substance and Style in Socially Desirable Responding
Authors: Lönnqvist Jan‐Erik , Paunonen Sampo , Tuulio‐Henriksson Annamari , Lönnqvist Jouko , Verkasalo Markku
Published: January 2007

ABSTRACT
The purpose of the present series of studies was to evaluate whether Paulhus's (1991) Self‐Deceptive Enhancement (SDE) and Communion Management (CM) socially desirable responding (SDR) scales should be interpreted as response set measures, response style measures, or measures of substantive individual differences in personality. In Study 1 (N=57) and Study 2 (N=62), army officer trainees were tested as applicants to their program and retested as incumbents 3 years later. Although participants generally responded to the situation by showing higher SDR scores in the applicant conditions, they also showed considerable rank‐order stability across time. In Study 3 (N=70), self‐reports on both SDR scales were corroborated by spouse reports, and, furthermore, SDE scores correlated with spouse reports of low Neuroticism and high Extraversion. Our data are interpreted as suggesting that both the CM and SDE scales are, in some varying amounts, measures of response set, response style, and substantive individual differences in personality. Implications of our findings for personality assessment and personnel selection are discussed.
African Countries and the WTO's Dispute Settlement Mechanism
Authors: Alavi Amin
Published: January 2007

The WTO Dispute Settlement Mechanism was designed, inter alia, to secure the ‘rule of law’ within international trade and provide all members with opportunities to exercise their rights under multilateral trade agreements. But, after ten years, no sub‐Saharan African country has yet used the option to initiate a dispute. This article examines what prevents the WTO Africa Group from using the system and critically reviews the solutions they have proposed to remedy this. It concludes by discussing how this reflects broader problems concerning African participation in WTO, and puts forward some alternative proposals.
Analysing the Poverty Impact of the HIPC Initiative in Cameroon
Authors: Nkama Arsene Honore Gideon
Published: January 2007

Abstract:  The paper uses the Poverty Analysis Macroeconomic Simulator (PAMS), a World Bank framework and updates its interface with the Cameroon government macroeconomic framework to analyze the potential impact of the implementation of the HIPC initiative on poverty alleviation. According to the main findings, it is very likely that Cameroon would succeed in achieving the poverty Millennium Development Goal. However, this result would be feasible if and only if the Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper (PRSP) is fully implemented. That is not very certain because of the failure already observed during the first year of PRSP implementation.
On Public Organizations in Ghana: What Differentiates Good Performers from Poor Performers?*
Authors: Owusu Francis
Published: January 2007

Abstract:  Public sector reform programs implemented across Africa, including the World Bank's ‘first’ and ‘second’ generation reforms, are based on the assumption that all public organizations are inefficient. This problematic assumption has had significant implications for policy in Africa. By failing to recognize that not all public organizations perform poorly, we ignore any potential lessons that could have been learnt from the experiences of organizations that have managed to perform effectively under the same social, political, economic and institutional environment. This paper uses Ghana as a case study to examine whether there are significant differences in the characteristics of poor and good performing public organizations. It is found that good and poor performing organizations in Ghana were significantly different in two respects: remuneration and hiring criteria.
The Cocoon of Power: Democratic Implications of Interinstitutional Agreements
Authors: Riekmann Sonja Puntscher
Published: January 2007

Abstract:  This article assesses Interinstitutional Agreements (IIAs) in terms of democratic theory. It starts from the premise that democratic rules as developed in the national context may be used as a yardstick for supranational governance as well. Thus, parliamentarisation of the Union is defined as an increase in democracy, although relating problems such as weak European party systems, low turnouts, and remoteness are not to be neglected. The article evaluates several case studies on IIAs in this vein and asks whether they strengthen the European Parliament or not, and why. It arrives at conclusions that allow for differentiation: empowerment of the European Parliament occurs in particular when authorisation to conclude an IIA stems from the Treaty or from the power that the European Parliament has in crucial fields such as the budget and is willing to use for this purpose. Success is, however, not guaranteed in every case, and is sometimes more symbolic than real. However, a democratic critique must also stress negative consequences of IIAs in terms of responsivity, accountability, and transparency.
Codifying Temporary Stability? The Role of Interinstitutional Agreements in Budgetary Politics
Authors: Eiselt Isabella , Pollak Johannes , Slominski Peter
Published: January 2007

Abstract:  The article analyses the potential of Interinstitutional Agreements (IIAs) for resolving conflicts in the field of EU budgetary policy. In the 1970s and 1980s, annual budgetary procedures were characterised by intense interinstitutional battles, mainly between the Council and the European Parliament. IIAs concluded during this period tried to clarify pertinent Treaty provisions, but proved to be insufficient to resolve budgetary conflicts stemming from the more general problem of the uneven allocation of budgetary and legislative power between the two institutions involved. It was not before the fundamental budgetary reform in 1988—agreed upon by the European Council and implemented through an IIA along with the gradually increased role in legislative politics granted to European Parliament through several Treaty amendments—that budgetary stability—arrived. Hence, IIAs can be regarded as an improper means to solve profound constitutional problems. Yet, they can be considered as suitable tools to arrange technical details.
Up Against a Wall: Europe's Options for Regulating Biotechnology through Regulatory Anarchy
Authors: Ostrovsky Aaron A.
Published: January 2007

Entre les forts et les faibles, c’est la liberté qui supprime et c’est la loi qui libère

François La Rochefoucauld

Abstract:  Based on the current state of EU law and the political sentiment surrounding Genetically Modified Organisms, this article argues that the best approach to regulating the import and export of GMOs into the Community and between Member States is by what I will call ‘regulatory anarchy’. Applied in the context of GMOs, regulatory anarchy envisions integration not coming solely from Community rules conceived by the Commission, but by Member State negotiated rules accomplished at the level of regulatory civil servants negotiating among each other. Greater centralisation will occur in the regulation of GMOs because the risk of defection in this area by an individual regulatory body imposes very high costs on other national regulators, to the point where they are willing to relinquish some of their own enforcement authority for assurances against collective action problems. As a result of the current gridlock caused by recalcitrant Member States, the GMO regime may be more effectively and efficiently handled by a system that employs regulatory anarchy; whereby 25 interested parties are initially brought to the table to approve a release (rather than one Member State), leaving less opportunities for regulatory capture by one Member State and still leaving room for Community supervision.
‘Willing Is Not Choosing’: Some Anthropological Implications of Dyothelite Christology
Authors: McFARLAND IAN A.
Published: January 2007

Abstract:  The dyothelite Christology of Maximus the Confessor provides a basis for countering modern worry that an Augustinian doctrine of the bondage of the will undermines human integrity. Modern discomfort with Augustine presupposes an anthropology that equates genuine agency with freedom of choice. In defending the principle that Christ has a fully human will, Maximus challenges this presupposition by denying that a human agent's willing is to be identified with choosing. Thus, while Maximus does not share Augustine's doctrine of original sin, he offers a framework within which to explore possible convergence between Eastern and Western understandings of the will.
Friendship and Trinitarian Theology: Response to Karen Kilby
Authors: LEVERING MATTHEW
Published: January 2007

Abstract:  In a recent article, Karen Kilby expresses the concern that some contemporary Thomistic theologians have, despite themselves, fallen into a form of theological rationalism. Kilby suggests that in fact some statements, while necessary for trinitarian grammar, are as unintelligible to theologians as to common believers. In dialogue with Kilby's critique, the present article suggests that the theology of friendship illumines how Augustine and Aquinas, like many other patristic and medieval theologians, offer their trinitarian theology as a ‘spiritual exercise’, and thereby indicates why their approaches do not constitute trinitarian theologians as a particular elite above all others.
Reactions to social security retirement reform proposals in the United States
Authors: Becker Fred W.
Published: January 2007

For some time the actuarial imbalance between revenues and benefit payments in the Social Security retirement programme in the United States has been a concern for decision makers, professional analysts, and the public. In response to this actuarial imbalance, President George W. Bush proposed in 2004 that changes be made in the method whereby Social Security benefits are determined and that individual investment accounts be established under the rubric of Social Security. The debate over the issue was intense, but it was effectively stilled by the middle of 2005. The probable legacy of the 2004‐05 debate is that limits have been placed upon future options to deal with the Social Security programme's financial difficulties. This article identifies those constraints which, together, constitute the new public policy “template” for future debates relating to the Social Security retirement programme in the United States.
An open‐label pilot study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of topically applied pimecrolimus cream for the treatment of steroid‐induced rosacea‐like eruption
Authors: Chu C‐Y
Published: January 2007

Background  Steroid‐induced rosacea‐like eruption is characterized by facial rosacea‐like dermatitis in patients that have been treated with topical steroids for relatively long periods.

Objective  To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of 1% pimecrolimus topical cream for steroid‐induced rosacea‐like eruption.

Methods  In an open‐label pilot study, 40 patients were enrolled and instructed to apply 1% pimecrolimus cream twice daily for 6 weeks. Patients were evaluated by a rosacea clinical score, investigator's global assessment, overall erythema severity, and tolerability at weeks 0, 2, and 6.

Results  In 35 patients, the rosacea clinical score decreased significantly from 16.0 ± 4.3 at baseline to 8.1 ± 3.3 at week 2 and 4.2 ± 2.5 at week 6 (P < 0.0001). Investigator's global assessment was 4.1 ± 1.1 (baseline), then decreased to 1.4 ± 0.8 (week 2) and 0.5 ± 0.6 (week 6) (P < 0.0001). By week 6, 48.6% of the patients were clear. Overall erythema severity was 2.4 ± 0.7 (baseline), 0.9 ± 0.4 (week 2), and 0.3 ± 0.4 (week 6) (P < 0.0001). Cutaneous adverse events (local burning, stinging, and itching) occurred in 17.5%.

Conclusion  Pimecrolimus cream might be efficacious, safe, and well tolerated for steroid‐induced rosacea‐like eruption. The small sample size and open label nature of this study is its limitation. Further double‐blind, vehicle‐controlled studies are needed.
Randomised controlled trial comparing the efficacy of same‐day administration of mifepristone and misoprostol for termination of pregnancy with the standard 36 to 48 hour protocol
Authors: Guest J , Chien PFW , Thomson MAR , Kosseim ML
Published: January 2007

Objective  To determine the efficacy of oral mifepristone followed by vaginal misoprostol 6 hours later compared with the standard 36‐ to 48‐hour regimen for medical termination of pregnancy.

Design  Single centre, two arm, parallel, open randomised controlled trial.

Setting  Medical termination service at a teaching hospital.

Sample  Four hundred and fifty women undergoing medical termination of pregnancy at up to 63 days of gestation.

Methods  Eligible women were randomised to receive mifepristone 200 mg orally followed by vaginal misoprostol 800 micrograms either 6 hours (n= 225) or 36–48 hours (n= 225) later. All participants were invited to attend for a follow‐up pelvic ultrasound scan within 7 days following the misoprostol administration. For those women in whom products of conception remained at the follow‐up ultrasound scan, expectant management ensued with weekly follow‐up ultrasound scans until the termination was complete. They could elect to undergo an evacuation of uterus at any stage following the scan. Those women with a nonviable gestation sac at the follow‐up scan were offered a further dose of vaginal misoprostol 800 micrograms or suction termination of pregnancy. Women with a continuing pregnancy were managed with surgical termination.

Main outcome measure  Successful medical abortion defined as no requirement for medical or surgical intervention beyond the initial dose of misoprostol.

Results  One hundred and sixty‐five women (79%) in the 6‐hour group and 197 women (92%) in the 36‐ to 48‐hour group had a successful termination at first follow‐up ultrasound or presumed on the basis of other considerations (those not seen for ultrasound but deemed successful by negative pregnancy test, products passed on ward or long‐term assessment of notes). Twenty‐two women (10%) in the 6‐hour regimen required up to three further ultrasound scans after 7 days following the mifepristone administration in order to ensure that the termination process was complete. None of these women required a suction evacuation of uterus. In the 36‐ to 48‐hour regimen, ten (5%) women had up to two further ultrasound scans to confirm a complete termination without the need for a surgical evacuation of uterus. Therefore, the overall successful termination rate in the 6‐hour regimen was 89% (187/210) compared with 96% (207/215) in the 36‐ to 48‐hour regimen (relative risk = 0.92, 95% CI 0.84–0.98). Repeat administration of misoprostol or surgical treatment was required in 23 women (11%) in the 6‐hour group and 8 women (4%) in the 36‐ to 48‐hour group. A viable pregnancy was found in five women (2%) in the 6‐hour group and in three women (1%) in the 36‐ to 48‐hour group.

Conclusions  Oral mifepristone 200 mg followed by vaginal misoprostol 800 micrograms after 6 hours is not as effective at achieving a complete abortion compared with the 36‐ to 48‐hour protocol.
Teenagers requesting pregnancy termination are no less responsible about contraceptive use at the time of conception than older women
Authors: Harvey N , Gaudoin M
Published: January 2007

Teenage contraceptive use is often perceived as irresponsible, and Government initiatives are aimed at improving this. This prospective observational cohort study examined contraceptive use in 925 women requesting termination of pregnancy (TOP) and found that usage in all women, regardless of age, was poor with no difference between age groups. These findings challenge frequently made assumptions about irresponsible contraceptive use and imply that contraceptive education, and initiatives to tackle the growing number of TOPs, should not be confined to teenagers but should start in early adolescence and must continue well in to adulthood.
Isolation and characterization of 17 new microsatellite markers for the ember parrotfish Scarus rubroviolaceus, and cross‐amplification in four other parrotfish species
Authors: CARLON DAVID B. , LIPPÉ CATHERINE
Published: January 2007

We describe the isolation and characterization of 17 polymorphic microsatellite loci for the ember parrotfish Scarus rubrioviolaceus. In a Hawaiian sample of 69 fish, we found between three and 20 alleles per locus, and observed heterozygosity ranging from 0.283 to 0.896. Four of these loci consistently cross‐amplified in the stareye parrotfish Calotomus carolinus, the spectacled parrotfish Chlorurus perspicillatus, the palenose parrotfish Scarus psittacus, and the bullethead parrotfish Chlorurus sordidus, but others gave mixed results. These loci will be useful for describing mating systems and population structure in marine species with broad dispersal potential that play key ecological roles in tropical environments.
The Linguistic Reflex of Social Change: From Tsarist to Soviet Russian Kinship*
Authors: Friedrich Paul
Published: January 2007

… a scientific statement is a statement that can be disproved, by which we mean, of course, a statement worded in such a way as to make it clear what sort of data would be adequate to overthrow it…