bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Advanced glycation end products and the absence of premature atherosclerosis in glycogen storage disease Ia
Authors: den Hollander N. C. , Mulder D. J. , Graaff R. , Thorpe S. R. , Baynes J. W. , Smit G. P. A. , Smit A. J. 
Published: June 2007

SummaryIntroductionDespite their unfavourable cardiovascular risk profile, patients with glycogen storage disease type Ia (GSD Ia) do not develop premature atherosclerosis. We hypothesized that this paradox might be related to a decreased formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) resulting from lifetime low plasma glucose levels and decreased oxidative stress.MethodsIn 8 GSD Ia patients (age 20–24 years) and 30 matched controls we measured carotid intima‐media thickness (IMT), skin autofluorescence (AF; a non‐invasive index for AGEs), and specific AGEs (pentosidine, N‐(carboxymethyl)lysine (CML), N‐(carboxyethyl)lysine (CEL)) and collagen linked fluorescence (CLF, measured at excitation/emission wavelength combinations of 328/378 and 370/440 nm) in skin samples.ResultsCarotid IMT was significantly lower in GSD Ia patients. Skin AF did not differ between patients and controls. The skin samples showed higher CEL levels in the patient group (p=0.008), but similar levels of pentosidine, CML, and CLF. In the total group, skin AF correlated with CML (r=0.39, p=0.031), CLF 328/378 nm (r=0.53; p=0.002) and CLF 370/440 nm (r=0.60; p=0.001). In the control group, AF also correlated with the maximum carotid IMT (r=0.6; p=0.004).ConclusionAlthough our data confirm that GSD Ia patients present with a reduced burden of atherosclerosis, this phenomenon cannot be explained by differences in AGE accumulation as measured in the skin.
Introgressive hybridization as the breakdown of postzygotic isolation: a theoretical perspective
Authors: Tanaka Yoshinari 
Published: June 2007

AbstractIn this paper, both the empirical and theoretical genetic aspects of human‐mediated introgressive hybridization are reviewed in terms of their association with the breakdown of postzygotic isolating mechanisms. I also compare several simulation models with an ecological or genetic focus that are relevant to the prediction and risk assessment of genetic extinction due to hybridization. One barrier to devising comprehensive risk assessment frameworks is a lack of sufficient population genetic studies that associate introgressive hybridization with specific isolating mechanisms. A gametic model based on multilocus underdominant fitness is one of the best genetic models for introgressive hybridization because it explicitly incorporates the postzygotic isolating mechanism known as Dobzhansky–Muller genetic incompatibility.
Lung function with carvedilol and bisoprolol in chronic heart failure: Is β selectivity relevant?
Authors: Agostoni Piergiuseppe , Contini Mauro , Cattadori Gaia , Apostolo Anna , Sciomer Susanna , Bussotti Maurizio , Palermo Pietro , Fiorentini Cesare 
Published: June 2007

AbstractBackgroundCarvedilol is a β‐blocker with similar affinity for β1‐ and β2 receptors, while bisoprolol has higher β1 affinity. The respiratory system is characterized by β2‐receptor prevalence. Airway β receptors regulate bronchial tone and alveolar β receptors regulate alveolar fluid re‐absorption which influences gas diffusion.AimsTo compare the effects of carvedilol and bisoprolol on lung function in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF).Methods and resultsWe performed a double‐blind, cross‐over study in 53 CHF patients. After 2 months of full dose treatment with either carvedilol or bisoprolol, we assessed lung function by salbutamol challenge, carbon monoxide lung diffusion (DLCO), including membrane conductance (DM), and gas exchange during exercise. FEV1 and FVC were similar; after salbutamol FEV1 was higher with bisoprolol (p<0.04). DLCO was 82±21% of predicted with carvedilol and 90±20% with bisoprolol (p<0.01) due to DM changes. Peak VO2 was 17.8±4.5 mL/min/kg on bisoprolol and 17.0±4.6 on carvedilol, (p<0.05) with no differences in bronchial tone (same expiratory time) throughout exercise. Differences were greater in the 22 subjects with DLCO<80%.ConclusionCarvedilol and bisoprolol have different effects on DLCO and response to salbutamol. DLCO differences, being DM related, are due to changes in active membrane transport which is under alveolar β2‐receptor control. Peak VO2 was slightly higher with bisoprolol particularly in CHF patients with reduced DLCO.
The impact of low back pain on work: A study in primary care consulters
Authors: Wynne‐Jones Gwenllian , Dunn Kate M. , Main Chris J. 
Published: June 2007

AbstractBackground: The cost of low back pain (LBP) to employers is high, with an estimated £9090 million lost in the United Kingdom in 1998. Economic analysis of LBP has focused on work absence among the employed. There is little research characterising individuals who report reduced duties or who are not in employment because of LBP.Aims: To compare the health related characteristics of primary care LBP consulters reporting usual employment, reduced duties, sick leave and non‐employment as a result of LBP.Methods: Prospective cohort study recruiting LBP consulters aged 30–59 years of age from five general practices in North Staffordshire.Results: Nine hundred and thirty‐five participants completed the baseline phase, 65% were in employment and 35% were not in employment. Of the employed participants over 1 in 10 (11%) were undertaking reduced duties and almost one‐fifth were reporting sick leave (22%). Furthermore, 37% of non‐employed consulters reported that LBP was the reason for non‐employment. Significant differences at baseline in socioeconomic status, self‐rated health, anxiety, depression and disability were found between those undertaking their usual job, those on reduced duties and those on sickness absence due to LBP, with those participants further removed from the work force reporting worse health across all measures. Significant differences were also found in self‐rated health between those not working due to LBP and those not working for other reasons, with participants not working due to LBP reporting worse self‐rated health. At follow‐up, work status was found to be relatively stable.Conclusion: These findings indicate that the economic impact of LBP may be higher than previously estimated when data on reduced duties is combined with work absence. The additional impact of unemployment due to LBP should also be included in future assessments of the impact of LBP on the workforce.
Molecular genetics of color-vision deficiencies
Authors: DEEB SAMIR S. 
Published: June 2007

The normal X-chromosome-linked color-vision gene array is composed of a single long-wave-sensitive (L-) pigment gene followed by one or more middle-wave-sensitive (M-) pigment genes. The expression of these genes to form L- or M-cones is controlled by the proximal promoter and by the locus control region. The high degree of homology between the L- and M-pigment genes predisposed them to unequal recombination, leading to gene deletion or the formation of L/M hybrid genes that explain the majority of the common red–green color-vision deficiencies. Hybrid genes encode a variety of L-like or M-like pigments. Analysis of the gene order in arrays of normal and deutan subjects indicates that only the two most proximal genes of the array contribute to the color-vision phenotype. This is supported by the observation that only the first two genes of the array are expressed in the human retina. The severity of the color-vision defect is roughly related to the difference in absorption maxima (λmax) between the photopigments encoded by the first two genes of the array. A single amino acid polymorphism (Ser180Ala) in the L pigment accounts for the subtle difference in normal color vision and influences the severity of red–green color-vision deficiency.Blue-cone monochromacy is a rare disorder that involves absence of L- and M-cone function. It is caused either by deletion of a critical region that regulates expression of the L/M gene array, or by mutations that inactivate the L- and M-pigment genes. Total color blindness is another rare disease that involves complete absence of all cone function. A number of mutants in the genes encoding the cone-specific α- and β-subunits of the cGMP-gated cation channel as well as in the α-subunit of transducin have been implicated in this disorder.
Public International Law: Is It Fit For Purpose?
Authors: Triggs Gillian 
Published: June 2007

AbstractThis paper by Professor Gillian Triggs seeks to explore whether the traditional principles of public international law are ‘fit for purpose’ in responding to such contemporary threats to collective security by reference to three issues: the regulation of the use of force; the need to balance the sovereign rights of states with humanitarian concerns; and the relationship between human rights and the orthodox rules applicable to prisoners of war and security detainees.
Sources of Indian Legal Information
Authors: Narayan Uma 
Published: June 2007

AbstractAbstract: The purpose of this paper by Uma Narayan is to provide an insight into how to use Indian legal materials for research purposes. The following subjects are covered: the evolution of the Indian legal system; systems and procedures in enacting laws in Parliament; Indian legal information sources - both government and private - as well as print and electronic sources and how to understand the method of publication of legislation.
Sneaky Learning: Has Knowledge Management Had its Day?
Authors: Byrne David 
Published: June 2007

AbstractDavid Byrne - Head of Information at BT Legal - explains that within the commercial, legal and regulatory division of BT, their approach to knowledge management is to introduce cultural change whereby knowledge capture and re-use are subordinate to the prime goals of revenue generation and competitiveness. He discusses the innovative methods used for building effective knowledge-sharing relationships including using the “best of the rest”; ensuring that the right technology is in place; measuring value; collaboration and creating the “Sticky Organisation”.
Open Notebook Science Using Blogs and Wikis
Authors: Bradley Jean-Claude 
Published: June 2007

AbstractThe first half is a summary of how the Bradley group at Drexel University is doing Open Notebook Science with the UsefulChem project to synthesize and test novel anti-malarial compounds. Graduate student Dave Strumfels' code to compute kinetics from JCAMP NMR reaction profiles is then highlighted. Finally screenshots are shown of a building on Nature Island in Second Life where Beth Ritter-Guth and Eloise Pasteur have helped to set up a poster room with NMR spectra, molecules and an organic chemistry quiz that can be activated by clicking on an obelisk.
Use of both benthic and drift sampling techniques to assess tropical stream invertebrate communities along an altitudinal gradient, Costa Rica
Authors: Pringle Catherine M. , Ramírez Alonso 
Published: June 2007

1. Two sampling techniques were used to characterize invertebrate communities in eight, low‐order streams along an altitudinal gradient in Costa Rica that represents the last continuous tract of primary forest spanning such extremes in elevation (i.e. near sea level to 2900 m a.s.l.) along the Caribbean Slope of Central America. A standard Surber sampler was used to sample invertebrates on the stream bottom, and drift sampling nets were used to sample invertebrates drifting in the stream flow.2. Sites were established at 30, 50, 700 1800 and 2700 m a.s.l. In one to two streams per site, six Surber samples were collected, and drift was sampled every 3 h over one 24‐h period between April and August 1994. All sites were in primary forest, with the exception of the lowest elevation site (30 m) which was located in banana plantations.3. Both sampling techniques indicated that Diptera (Chironomidae) and Ephemeroptera were the dominant insect groups at all sites. Disturbed streams draining banana plantations were dominated by Chironomidae and had lower taxon richness and diversity than other sites.4. While data from benthic samples indicated that insects were the major faunal component (> 90%) at all sites, drift samples were dominated by larval shrimps (> 50%) at the 30 m and 50 m sites.5. Drift periodicity of invertebrates was observed at those sites characterized by predaceous fishes: nocturnal drift densities were higher than diurnal densities at 30, 50 and 700 m a.s.l., however, no periodicity was observed at 1800 and 2700 m a.s.l. where fish were absent.6. This study shows the importance of measuring invertebrate drift, in addition to directly sampling the benthos. Drift sampling provided data on a major community component (shrimps) of lowland tropical streams, that would have been overlooked using traditional benthic sampling techniques, and in some cases provided additional information on taxon richness.7. Based on results of the present study, it is recommended that drift sampling be included as a standard complementary tool to benthic sampling in biological assessments (e.g. bioassessment protocols) of tropical streams, which are often characterized by migratory invertebrate species such as shrimps. Drift samples provide critical information on the presence or absence of shrimps and also on the timing and magnitude of their migration which is an important link between many tropical rivers and their estuaries.
Colletotrichum acutatum Found on Apple Buds in Norway
Authors: Børve Jorunn , Stensvand Arne 
Published: June 2007

Healthy appearing buds of five apple cultivars from 2 experimental and 9 commercial orchards were collected and incubated in saturated air at 20°C in early spring (prior to bud break) over three years. Colletotrichum acutatum sporulated on 0 to 7% (mean 1.3%) of the buds from both commercial and experimental orchards. Infected apple buds are suggested as a potential source of inoculum in spring. Accepted for publication 5 February 2007. Published 22 May 2007.
Crystallographic studies of the complexes of antiviral protein griffithsin with glucose and N‐acetylglucosamine
Authors: Ziółkowska Natasza E. , Shenoy Shilpa R. , O'Keefe Barry R. , Wlodawer Alexander 
Published: June 2007

AbstractCrystal structures of complexes of an antiviral lectin griffithsin (GRFT) with glucose and N‐acetylglucosamine were solved and refined at high resolution. In both complexes, all six monosaccharide‐binding sites of GRFT were occupied and the mode of binding was similar to that of mannose. In our previous attempts to obtain a complex with N‐acetylglucosamine by soaking, only a single site was occupied; thus, cocrystallization was clearly superior despite lower concentration of the ligand. Isothermal titration calorimetric experiments with N‐acetylglucosamine, glucose, and mannose provided enthalpic evidence of distinct binding differences between the three monosaccharides. A comparison of the mode of binding of different monosaccharides is discussed in the context of the antiviral activity of GRFT, based on specific binding to high‐mannose‐containing complex carbohydrates found on viral envelopes.
Assessing whether to receive funding support from tobacco, alcohol, gambling and other dangerous consumption industries
Authors: Adams Peter J. 
Published: June 2007

ABSTRACTAim  To examine the risks taken by health, research and community organizations when they opt to receive funding from dangerous consumption industries and to identify ways in which they might generate their own assessment of these risks.Methods  Common risks associated with industry involvements are examined, along with potential barriers to self‐reflection.Results  Funds derived from tobacco, alcohol, gambling and other dangerous consumptions are accessed increasingly by public good organizations. The variety of risks these involvements incur place individuals and organizations somewhere along a continuum of moral jeopardy, stretching from those with minor involvements to those with unmanageable conflicts of interest. The concept of a ‘continuum’ is preferable to a ‘binary’ interpretation in that the latter tends to lock understandings into all‐or‐nothing positions, thereby discouraging reflection and discussion regarding ethical and moral issues. Active scrutiny of these risks can be assisted through strategies that promote ongoing self‐assessment. This is illustrated in the application of criteria that help breakdown risks and provide guidance in deciding on the extent of involvement with industry funding.Conclusion  The paper finishes with practical examples of educational and assessment strategies that could assist in reducing moral jeopardy.
The predictors and consequences of adolescent amphetamine use: findings from the Victoria Adolescent Health Cohort Study
Authors: Degenhardt Louisa , Coffey Carolyn , Moran Paul , Carlin John B. , Patton George C. 
Published: June 2007

ABSTRACTObjectives  Previous work has highlighted the adverse consequences of early‐onset cannabis use. However, little is known about the predictors and effects of early‐onset amphetamine use. We set out to examine these issues using a representative cohort of young people followed‐up over 11 years in Victoria, Australia.Methods  A stratified, random sample of 1943 adolescents was recruited from secondary schools across Victoria at age 14–15 years. This cohort was interviewed on eight occasions until the age of 24–25 years (78% follow‐up at that age). Cross‐sectional associations were assessed using logistic regression with allowance for repeated measures. Both proportional hazards models and logistic regression models were used to assess prospective associations.Results  Approximately 7% of the sample had used amphetamines by the age of 17 years. Amphetamine use by this age was associated with poorer mental health and other drug use. The incidence of amphetamine use during the teenage years was predicted by heavier drug use and by mental health problems. By young adulthood (age 24–25 years), adolescent amphetamine users were more likely to meet criteria for dependence upon a range of drugs, to have greater psychological morbidity and to have some limitations in educational attainment. Most of these associations were not sustained after adjustment for early‐onset cannabis use.Conclusion  Young people in Australia who begin amphetamine use by age 17 years are at increased risk for a range of mental health, substance use and psychosocial problems in young adulthood. However, these problems are largely accounted for by their even earlier‐onset cannabis use.
Substance use trends among active duty military personnel: findings from the United States Department of Defense Health Related Behavior Surveys, 1980–2005
Authors: Bray Robert M. , Hourani Laurel L. 
Published: June 2007

ABSTRACTAims  This study was designed to assess trends in cigarette, illicit drug, and heavy alcohol use among active‐duty military personnel from 1980 to 2005 and to examine the influence of socio‐demographic changes within the military on patterns of substance use.Design  Substance use prevalence rates were estimated from cross‐sectional data obtained from nine self‐report surveys administered to more than 150 000 active‐duty service members world‐wide over a 25‐year period. Direct standardization was used to adjust for socio‐demographic changes.Measurements  Measures included self‐reported cigarette use, illicit drug use and heavy alcohol use in the 30 days prior to the survey. Heavy alcohol use was defined as drinking five or more drinks per typical drinking occasion at least once a week in the past 30 days.Findings  Cigarette and illicit drug use among military personnel declined sharply and significantly from 1980 to 1998. Heavy alcohol use decreased in the mid‐1980s but was stable from 1988 to 1998. Both cigarette smoking and heavy alcohol use increased significantly between 1998 and 2002 and remained at those levels in 2005. Illicit drug use remained low. Logistic regression analyses indicated that trends were influenced by other factors besides socio‐demographic changes across survey years.Conclusions  The military has made notable progress in decreasing cigarette smoking and illicit drug use, but has made less progress in reducing heavy alcohol use. Additional emphasis should be placed on understanding recent increases in substance use and on planning effective interventions and prevention programs to reduce use in this high‐risk population.
Crystal methamphetamine use among young adults in the USA
Authors: Iritani Bonita J. , Hallfors Denise Dion , Bauer Daniel J. 
Published: June 2007

ABSTRACTAims  To examine the prevalence and correlates of crystal methamphetamine use among young adults in the USA.Design  Cross‐sectional analyses of nationally representative data of young adults from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (Add Health).Setting  In‐home interviews conducted in 2001–02.Participants  A total of 14 322 respondents aged 18–26 years.Measurements  Past year and 30‐day crystal methamphetamine use; crime/violence (ever arrested, past year drug selling, past year violent behavior) and sexual risk behaviors (multiple partners, poor condom use, regretted sex, sex for money).Findings  Prevalence of past year crystal methamphetamine use was 2.8%; past month was 1.3%. White or Native American race, residence in the west or south, having an ever‐incarcerated father, marijuana, cocaine, intravenous drug use and high novelty seeking were associated with greater likelihood of past year use in multivariate analyses. Compared to marijuana and cocaine users, crystal methamphetamine users were more likely to be male, unemployed, reside in the west or south, have an ever‐incarcerated father and less likely to be black or Hispanic. Frequent users were no different from occasional users, except being more likely to have dropped out of school. Although crystal methamphetamine use was associated with crime and risky sex, controlling for covariates greatly diminished this relationship.Conclusions  Most users are occasional users, but any past year use is associated with risky and antisocial behaviors, including other illicit drug use. Further research is needed to examine how other drug addiction is associated with methamphetamine use, and to identify longitudinal antecedents for prevention.