bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Loss of functional diversity under land use intensification across multiple taxa
Authors: Flynn Dan F. B. , Gogol‐Prokurat Melanie , Nogeire Theresa , Molinari Nicole , Richers Bárbara Trautman , Lin Brenda B. , Simpson Nicholas , Mayfield Margaret M. , DeClerck Fabrice 
Published: October 2008

AbstractLand use intensification can greatly reduce species richness and ecosystem functioning. However, species richness determines ecosystem functioning through the diversity and values of traits of species present. Here, we analyze changes in species richness and functional diversity (FD) at varying agricultural land use intensity levels. We test hypotheses of FD responses to land use intensification in plant, bird, and mammal communities using trait data compiled for 1600+ species. To isolate changes in FD from changes in species richness we compare the FD of communities to the null expectations of FD values. In over one‐quarter of the bird and mammal communities impacted by agriculture, declines in FD were steeper than predicted by species number. In plant communities, changes in FD were indistinguishable from changes in species richness. Land use intensification can reduce the functional diversity of animal communities beyond changes in species richness alone, potentially imperiling provisioning of ecosystem services.
Prospective combined brain and spinal cord MRI in clinically isolated syndromes and possible early multiple sclerosis: impact on dissemination in space and time
Authors: Jacobi C. , Hähnel S. , Martinez‐Torres F. , Rieger S. , Jüttler E. , Heiland S. , Jarius S. , Meyding‐Lamadè U. , Storch‐Hagenlocher B. , Wildemann B. 
Published: October 2008

Background:  The diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) is based on dissemination in space (DIS) and time (DIT). The aim of the study was to assess the impact of spinal cord (SC) imaging on the evidence of DIS and DIT.Methods:  Thirty‐five treatment‐naive patients with a first clinical symptom suggestive of MS were examined in a 2‐year prospective longitudinal follow‐up assessment. Brain and SC magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), Expanded Disability Status Scale and multiple sclerosis functional composite were analysed at baseline and after 1 and 2 years.Results:  At study entry, 21 patients were classified as clinically isolated syndrome suggestive of MS (CIS) and 14 patients as possible early MS. SC lesions were detected at baseline in 14 CIS patients (67%, median: 1.0, enhancing 29%) and in 11 patients with possible early MS (79%, median: 2.0, enhancing 29%). DIS as depicted by additive SC imaging was detected in two additional individuals according to the revised versus the 2001 McDonald criteria. All patients with emerging cord lesions showed new brain lesions. Five individuals developed clinically asymptomatic cord lesions.Conclusions:  Spinal cord abnormalities are frequent in CIS patients and in patients with possible early MS. SC imaging slightly improved the establishment of DIS, but had no impact on the evidence of DIT.
Comparison of symptomatic versus functional changes in children and adolescents with ADHD during randomized, double‐blind treatment with psychostimulants, atomoxetine, or placebo
Authors: Buitelaar Jan K. , Wilens Timothy E. , Zhang Shuyu , Ning Yu , Feldman Peter D. 
Published: October 2008

Background:  This meta‐analysis was designed to determine the relationship between reduction of attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms and improvement in functioning by examining short‐term changes in functional and symptomatic scores in children and adolescents with ADHD.Methods:  Search of atomoxetine’s clinical trial database identified four studies involving a symptomatic measure, the ADHD Rating Scale‐IV‐Parent Version:Investigator‐administered and ‐scored (ADHDRS‐IV‐Parent:Inv), and a functional measure, the Life Participation Scale for ADHD (LPS).Results:  Correlation analysis revealed a moderate‐to‐strong association between changes in the LPS total versus ADHDRS‐IV‐Parent:Inv total (r: −.68). The LPS Self‐control subscale showed higher correlations than the Happy/Social subscale with the symptomatic measures. Regression analysis also showed high sensitivity for functional measures to changes in symptom severity. Stratified analysis of mean changes in ADHDRS‐IV‐Parent:Inv scores corresponding to standardized changes in LPS functional scores indicated that a threshold reduction of 16–18 points on the ADHDRS‐IV‐Parent:Inv total score was needed for functional improvements to become evident.Conclusions:  Subjects’ symptomatic improvements appear to be reflected in improvements in their social and behavioral function as measured by the LPS. These initial findings warrant verification by replication with other outcome measures.
Alterations in VO2max and the VO2 plateau with manipulation of sampling interval
Authors: Astorino Todd A. 
Published: October 2008

SummaryBackground:  The most accepted criterion for confirming attainment of VO2max is a plateau in oxygen consumption (VO2) at VO2max, but its incidence varies.Aims:  To compare VO2max and VO2 plateau incidence across various sampling intervals, and to examine predictors of the change in VO2 (ΔVO2) at VO2max.Methods:  Sedentary, recreationally‐active, and endurance‐trained subjects (n = 108, age = 24·2 ± 6·2 year) completed incremental exercise on the treadmill or cycle ergometer. Gas exchange data were obtained breath‐by‐breath and time‐averaged every 15, 30, and 60 s. VO2max attainment was verified with the Taylor et al. (1955) criterion (ΔVO2 at VO2max ≤2·1 ml kg−1 min−1). Multiple regression was used to examine predictors of ΔVO2 at VO2max.Results:  VO2 plateau incidence was higher using breath‐by‐breath (81%) and 15 (91%) and 30 s time averaging (89%) versus 60 s averaging (59%). Compared to 60 s averaging, VO2max was significantly higher (P<0·05) when data were obtained breath‐by‐breath and with 15 and 30 s time‐averaging compared to 60 s sampling. VO2max was not related to VO2 plateau incidence. Respiratory rate was a significant predictor of ΔVO2 at VO2max in endurance‐trained subjects.Conclusion:  More frequent data acquisition revealed higher VO2max and incidence of the VO2 plateau compared to 60 s time averaging. Secondary criteria to verify VO2max attainment should not be used, as they do not discern between subjects who do and do not reveal a plateau in VO2 at VO2max.
Alpha7 cholinergic‐agonist prevents systemic inflammation and improves survival during resuscitation
Authors: Cai Bolin , Chen Fei , Ji Yan , Kiss Levente , de Jonge Wouter J. , Conejero‐Goldberg Concepcion , Szabo Csaba , Deitch Edwin A. , Ulloa Luis 
Published: October 2008

AbstractSevere haemorrhage is a common cause of death despite the recent advances in critical care. Conventional resuscitation fluids are designed to re‐establish tissue perfusion, but they fail to prevent inflammatory responses during resuscitation. Our previous studies indicated that the vagus nerve can modulate systemic inflammationviathe alpha7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAchR). Here, we report that the alpha7nAChR‐agonist, GTS, restrains systemic inflammation and improves survival during resuscitation. Resuscitation with GTS rescued all the animals from lethal haemorrhage in a concentration‐dependent manner. Unlike conventional resuscitation fluids, GTS inhibited the production of characteristic inflammatory and cardiodepressant factors including tumour necrosis factor (TNF) and high mobility group B protein‐1 (HMGB1). Resuscitation with GTS was particularly effective in restraining systemic TNF responses and inhibiting its production in the spleen. At the molecular level, GTS inhibited p65RelA but not RelB NF‐κB during resuscitation. Unlike non‐specific nicotinic agonists, GTS inhibited serum protein TNF levels in both normal and splenectomized, haemorrhagic animals. Resuscitation with GTS inhibited poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase and systemic HMGB1 levels. Our studies suggest that GTS provides significant advantages as compared with non‐specific nicotinic agonists, and it could be a promising anti‐inflammatory supplement to improve survival during resuscitation.
Evaluation of Patient Expectations and Treatment Satisfaction After 1-Year Tadalafil Therapy for Erectile Dysfunction: The DETECT Study
Authors: Perimenis Petros , Roumeguere Thierry , Heidler Helmut , Roos Erik , Belger Mark , Schmitt Henry 
Published: October 2008

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a self-reported condition and satisfaction with sexual performance is individual, subjective, and multi-factorial. Treatment success depends on several outcomes. Tadalafil is a long-acting, selective inhibitor of phosphodiesterase 5 that has been shown to be effective at treating men with ED.

Aim
To investigate patient’s ED treatment expectations at baseline; patient satisfaction with tadalafil treatment after 12 months; factors associated with satisfaction; and effect of early tadalafil treatment satisfaction on tadalafil continuation at 12 months.

Methods
The Determinants of Continued Use of Tadalafil study is a 12-month, prospective, pan-European, noninterventional, observational study, which enrolled 1,900 patients with ED wishing to initiate or change their treatment to tadalafil. Assessments were made on predefined treatment outcomes in a routine clinical setting.

Main Outcome Measures
International Index of Erectile Function-erectile function domain scores (at baseline, 1, 6, and 12 month visit), ED Inventory of Treatment Satisfaction (EDITS) scores (after 1, 6, and 12 months), and patient expectation questionnaire (at baseline visit) were analyzed for these patients.

Results
Data were available from 1,567 patients (82%) after 12 months, with similar baseline characteristics as the initial cohort. Treatment expectations identified as important included: erection hardness and ability to maintain erection through intercourse completion (&gt;92% of patients); confidence, partner satisfaction, and naturalness (&gt;84% of patients); rapid effect and long duration of treatment (&gt;75% of patients). Continued tadalafil use from 1,319 (84%) patients at 12 months were reported. Total EDITS scores for those continuing treatment was 85.9 (95% CI: 85.1–86.7). Increased satisfaction was associated with higher effectiveness, number of sexual attempts, partner support, good relationships, and good drug tolerance. Treatment satisfaction at 1 month was best predictive of treatment continuation at 12 months.

Conclusions
Eighty-four percent of patients reported continued use of tadalafil after 12 months. High satisfaction after first month of treatment was the best predictor of treatment continuation.
Differential attraction of parasitoids in relation to specificity of kairomones from herbivores and their by‐products
Authors: Afsheen Sumera , Wang Xia , Li Ran , Zhu Chuan‐Shu , Lou Yong‐Gen 
Published: October 2008

AbstractInfochemicals are used by foraging parasitoids in the host selection process from habitat preference until host recognition. Kairomones from the herbivore host plays a vital role in the attraction of parasitoids, particularly in the micro‐habitat. Parasitoids are specifically attracted to their respective herbivore species even when different herbivores are present on the same plant. Chemicals emitted from different stages of host (eggs, larvae, pupae, adult), host by‐products (e.g., frass, exuviae, mandibular gland secretions, defense secretions etc.), or intra‐specific infochemicals (pheromones) can be main signals for the parasitoids. Parasitoids can differentiate between host and non‐host, between different hosts and host stages by perceiving specific volatile and contact kairomones from the host itself, host along with its by‐product, by‐products alone or intra‐specific infochemicals; of which frass (by‐product) and intra‐specific infochemicals are the most reported ones. Adult and larval parasitoids have been reported to be attracted to kairomones of their target stage or byproduct of their host. Pupal parasitoids have been found to utilize kairomones from the preceding host stage while egg parasitoids are known to exploit a variety of host infochemicals, for example, either from eggs themselves or other non‐target host stages, especially adults and adult‐related by‐products. The kairomonal chemicals identified so far include various groups, but mainly hydrocarbons. A high degree of host specificity and host acceptance is important for the parasitoids as any mistake may result in the loss of fitness.
Reference genes identified in the silkworm Bombyx mori during metamorphism based on oligonucleotide microarray and confirmed by qRT‐PCR
Authors: Wang Gen‐Hong , Xia Qing‐You , Cheng Dao‐Jun , Duan Jun , Zhao Ping , Chen Jie , Zhu Li 
Published: October 2008

AbstractGene expression quantification at mRNA level is very important for post‐genomic studies, as gene expression level is the reflection of the special biological function of the target gene. Methods used for gene expression quantification, such as microarray or quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR), require stable expressed reference genes. Thus, finding suitable control genes is essential for gene quantification. In this study, a genome‐wide survey of reference genes during metamorphism was performed on silkworm Bombyx mori. Twelve genes were chosen as putative reference genes based on a whole genome oligonucleotide microarray normalized by external controls. Then, qRT‐PCR was employed for further validation and selection of potential reference gene candidates. The results were analyzed, and stable genes were selected using geNorm 3.4 and NormFinder software. Finally, considering factors from every aspect, translation initiation factor 4A, translation initiation factor 3 subunit 4, and translation initiation factor 3 subunit 5 (represented by sw22934, swl4876, and swl3956) were selected as reliable internal controls across the examined developmental stages, while cytoplasmic actin (sw22671), the commonly used reference gene in a previous study was shown to vary drastically throughout the examined developmental stages. For future research, we recommend the use of the geometric mean of those three stable reference genes as an accurate normalization factor for data normalization of different developmental stages during metamorphism.
How to Break the Deadlock Preventing a Fair and Rational Use of Biodiversity
Authors: Straus Joseph 
Published: October 2008

Sixteen years after the adoption of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), the hopes in successful exploitation of genetic resources for the benefit of biodiversity‐rich host countries, as well as of humanity at large, have not materialized. Instead of aiming all efforts at achieving “the conservation of biological diversity, the sustainable use of its components and the fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising out of the utilization of genetic resources”, the defined objectives of the CBD, based on the logical pattern that benefit sharing presupposes a generation of benefits, which in turn presupposes successful utilization of genetic resources, the international debate is captured by more or less politicized and fruitless debates as to how to anchor internationally in patent law a requirement of indication of origin of biological material.Here some reflections on the recent negotiations within the World Trade Organization and the World Intellectual Property Organization are offered. However, the main focus is on national access and benefit‐sharing legislation of some biodiversity‐rich countries, which although is the key for achieving the CBD objectives, has not been paid the attention it necessitates. Based on a catalogue of questions of high practical importance, laws of Brazil, India, Peru, the Philippines, South Africa and some other countries are examined and suggestions made as to how to overcome the overall detrimental existing deadlock.
A preliminary study of the effects of Tai Chi and Qigong medical exercise on indicators of metabolic syndrome, glycaemic control, health-related quality of life, and psychological health in adults with elevated blood glucose
Authors: Liu X , Miller Y D , Burton N W , Brown W J 
Published: October 2008

ObjectivesTo evaluate the feasibility, acceptability and effects of a Tai Chi and Qigong exercise programme in adults with elevated blood glucose.Design, Setting, and ParticipantsA single group pre–post feasibility trial with 11 participants (3 male and 8 female; aged 42–65 years) with elevated blood glucose.InterventionParticipants attended Tai Chi and Qigong exercise training for 1 to 1.5 h, 3 times per week for 12 weeks, and were encouraged to practise the exercises at home.Main Outcome MeasuresIndicators of metabolic syndrome (body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, triglycerides, HDL-cholesterol); glucose control (HbA1c, fasting insulin and insulin resistance (HOMA)); health-related quality of life; stress and depressive symptoms.ResultsThere was good adherence and high acceptability. There were significant improvements in four of the seven indicators of metabolic syndrome including BMI (mean difference −1.05, p<0.001), waist circumference (−2.80 cm, p<0.05), and systolic (−11.64 mm Hg, p<0.01) and diastolic blood pressure (−9.73 mm Hg, p<0.001), as well as in HbA1c (−0.32%, p<0.01), insulin resistance (−0.53, p<0.05), stress (−2.27, p<0.05), depressive symptoms (−3.60, p<0.05), and the SF-36 mental health summary score (5.13, p<0.05) and subscales for general health (19.00, p<0.01), mental health (10.55, p<0.01) and vitality (23.18, p<0.05).ConclusionsThe programme was feasible and acceptable and participants showed improvements in metabolic and psychological variables. A larger controlled trial is now needed to confirm these promising preliminary results.
Effect of 12 weeks of moderate–intensity resistance training on arterial stiffness: a randomised controlled trial in women aged 32–59 years
Authors: Yoshizawa M , Maeda S , Miyaki A , Misono M , Saito Y , Tanabe K , Kuno S , Ajisaka R 
Published: October 2008

Background:Resistance training has been increasingly incorporated into the overall exercise programme because of its effect on muscle strength, functional capacity and osteoporosis. High-intensity resistance training increases arterial stiffness. However, the effect of moderate-intensity resistance training on arterial stiffness is unknown.Objective:To determine whether 12 weeks of moderate-intensity resistance training increases arterial stiffness in middle-aged women.Methods:35 middle-aged women (age range 32 to 59 years) volunteered to participate. The subjects were randomly assigned to one of three groups: resistance training (RT) group, aerobic exercise training (AET) group or control group. The RT and AET groups performed 12 weeks of moderate-intensity resistance training or aerobic exercise training (two days/week).Results:In the RT group, one-repetition maximum strength significantly increased after the intervention. Interestingly, aortic (carotid–femoral) pulse wave velocity (PWV; an index of arterial stiffness), and peripheral (femoral–ankle) PWV did not change with moderate-intensity resistance training. In contrast, in the AET group, carotid–femoral PWV significantly decreased after the intervention. Resistance training and aerobic exercise training did not affect blood pressure.Conclusions:This study found that moderate-intensity resistance training did not increase arterial stiffness in middle-aged women, which may have great importance for health promotion with resistance training.
Geochemistry of late Mesoproterozoic volcanism in southwestern Scandinavia: implications for Sveconorwegian/Grenvillian plate tectonic models
Authors: BREWER T. S. , ÅHÄLL K.-I. , DARBYSHIRE D. P. F. , MENUGE J. F. 
Published: October 2008

Abstract:
The last magmatic stage before the Sveconorwegian orogeny in the Baltic Shield is represented by bimodal,
c.
1.16 Ga volcanics from the Bandak Group in southern Norway and largely coeval basalts from the Dal Group in SW Sweden. In both areas, the volcanic rocks are intercalated with sedimentary units and the onset of basin development is marked by deposition of clastic sediments.

In the lower part of the Bandak Group, the Morgedal basalts are relatively evolved and geochemical signatures suggest assimilation of lower crustal components. In contrast, the subsequent Gjuve basalts are more primitive and record assimilation of upper crustal rocks similar to exposed basement rocks.

In the Bandak Group, the chemistry of the basalts changes within the stratigraphy, such that the older Morgedal basalts (MgO = 5.2–8.8 wt%, initial
ϵ
Nd
2.81–3.96, Zr/Y = 4.0–5.1, Zr/Nb = 34–50, La/Nb = 2.4–3.7) are more fractionated and have more enriched Nd isotope ratios compared to the Gjuve basalts (MgO = 6.4–12.3 wt%, initial
ϵ
Nd
4.05–4.97, Zr/Y = 3.4–4.7, Zr/Nb = 20–30, La/Nb = 1.5–2.4). This suggests that there earliest basalts are more contaminated, and it appears that the composition of the crustal component changed with time.

A thin felsic volcanic unit, the Dalen Formation, separates the two basalt sequences. It represents melting of upper crustal rocks, triggered by injection of mafic magmas into crustal magma chambers. In the Dal Group, basalts form a relatively thin unit (< 500 m) where flows with high MgO values (> 9%) were least affected by assimilation of crustal components.
Whole-rock geochemistry and Nd isotope ratios for the Bandak and Dal basalts indicate shallow melting of sub-continental lithospheric mantle in response to extension in a continental back-arc setting, related to subduction along the western margin of Baltica. These constraints envision a similar tectonic evolution with that of eastern Laurentia, which support models of a pre-Grenvillian supercontinent with a long-lived, active margin that reached western Baltica.
Whose Rights and Which Rights? The Continuing Story of Non-Refoulement under the European Convention on Human Rights
Authors: den Heijer Maarten 
Published: October 2008

AbstractThis article challenges the assumption that under the European Convention of Human Rights only Articles 2 and 3 bear relevance in cases of refoulement. By unraveling the explicit and implicit principles applied by the European Court of Human Rights and elaborating upon earlier theoretical attempts to ascertain the impact of the Soering judgment on extradition and expulsion cases, it is argued that there is no clear dichotomy of rights within the European Convention and that the higher threshold for applying Convention standards to cases of expulsion in which maltreatment is suffered in the receiving country is dependent on the notion of a 'fundamental value'. Albeit a somewhat nebulous concept, this notion is likely to encompass not only Articles 2 and 3, but also norms protected by other provisions, or at the least certain intrinsic components of those other provisions.