bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Headache Medication-Use Among Primary Care Headache Patients in A Health Maintenance Organization
Authors: Von Korff M. , Black LK , Saunders K , Galer BS
Published: March 2003

Objective. Medication-use among headache patients 2 and 5 years after a primary care headache visit is assessed, and the pattern of medication-use compared before and after the introduction of subcutaneous sumatriptan among migraineurs.

Setting and patients. The study was carried out among headache patients visiting a primary care physician at the Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound in 1989-90.

Methods. We report medication-use patterns 2 and 5 years later for the 530 subjects completing both a 2-year (1991-92) and a 5-year (1994-95) follow-up interview. Medication-use was determined by self-report for the month prior to the interview. Medication-use to control or prevent headache is shown for all headache patients and for those meeting International Headache Society criteria for migraine at the 2-year and the 5-year follow-up.

Results. The overall pattern of medication-use was similar at the 2-year and the 5-year follow-up, before and after the introduction of subcutaneous sumatriptan (March, 1993). There was a modest but statistically significant decline in the use of opioid and sedative-hypnotic medications, and in the use of ergotamine. At 5 years, 11% of migraineurs reported use of sumatriptan in the prior month. The large majority of study patients used symptomatic medications, usually non-prescription analgesics, sedativehypnotics, and opiates. Only one-fifth of the migraineurs reported use of a prophylactic medication for headache.

Conclusions. Continuing use of symptomatic headache medications was characteristic of patients with migraine and other common forms of headache. The introduction of subcutaneous sumatriptan was not associated with notable change in this pattern, although a modest reduction in use of sedativehypnotics and opiates was observed. Overall, the pattern of use of headache medications was similar before and after the introduction of subcutaneous sumatriptan.
Clinical Neurophysiology in Childhood Headache
Authors: Puca F , de Tommaso M
Published: March 2003

Electrophysiological studies in childhood headache are of interest because of the need to make a clinical diagnosis and also because of the efficacy of physiopathological studies in juvenile age attributable to the recent outcome of the illness, with less clinical modification by environmental factors or drug use. Electrophysiological studies in childhood headache are concerned with migraine and electroencephalographic (EEG) evaluations; evoked potentials, event-related potentials and, less often, electromyographic studies are also reported. Visual analysis of EEG suggests an association between migraine and epilepsy; quantitative EEG, visual and event-related evoked potentials show fluctuating abnormalities, depending on the occurrence of the migraine attacks and permanent anomalous patterns related to the basic mechanisms underlying the disease. Blink reflex studies might suggest a primary dysfunction of the nociceptive control central system in children affected by tension-type headache and migraine. The use of neurophysiological procedures in juvenile migraine is considered limited in clinical practice and of particular interest in neurophysiological studies of headache.
Using ‘best value’ in purchasing and providing services for people with learning disabilities
Authors: Cambridge Paul
Published: March 2003

Best Value is a new system of local authority purchasing being introduced by the UK Government, which is designed to replace compulsory competitive tendering with arrangements which take account of quality as well as costs. In the context of social care, Best Value is also part of a broader move to better monitor social services performance and establish service standards proposed by the Department of Health. Services for people with learning disabilities will be included in Best Value, and purchasers and providers will need to review their current systems to fit with those required by Best Value. The present paper draws on evidence from research and service development to explore the problems and potentials of Best Value in services for people with learning disabilities, and to identify review and action points for managing its implementation.
Parents with learning disabilities: service audit and development
Authors: Woodhouse Anne E. , Green Gill , Davies Sara
Published: March 2003

Increasing referrals of parents with learning disabilities or with possible learning disabilities to a small clinical psychology department prompted an audit and service review. Numbers of referrals had increased from two in 1995 to 13 in 1997. Only three out of the 32 children of referred parents were not subject to some form of intervention resulting from the 1989 Children Act. Twenty‐three distinct teams of professionals were identified as being involved with the referred families. The clinical psychology department had limited resources, and consequently, developed a service that allowed for the restriction in finance and personnel. The service was developed within a four‐tier model. This included workshops and a consultation service for professionals involved with these families, a parenting assessment service, legal work, and a parents' group that addressed parenting skills and personal development. The present authors believe that this model serves as a useful framework for other small departments, but that a dedicated special parenting service for vulnerable parents remains the ideal.
Role and contribution of nurses for learning disabilities: a local study in a county of the Oxford–Anglia region
Authors: Stewart David , Todd Margaret
Published: March 2003

Thirty‐two professionals (i.e. nurses, teachers and managers) working in the field of learning disabilities were interviewed regarding the current and future role of registered nurses for learning disabilities (RNLDs). The present exploratory study used semi‐structured interviews based on four main research questions examining the contribution of RNLDs in terms of knowledge, practical skills, future skills and the development of services. The results show that RNLDs are held in high regard, being characterized by a breadth of knowledge, qualities and skills. The findings also make clear that differences exist in the perceptions of the different professional groups, and that the way forward for RNLDs remains unclear in both the minds of nurses and colleagues. Suggestions are made to help clarify the future position of RNLDs.
Vulnerability of witnesses with learning disabilities: preparing to give evidence against a perpetrator of sexual abuse
Authors: Green Gill
Published: March 2003

Testifying in court to sexual abuse is always stressful and can be particularly problematic for a witness with learning disabilities (LDs). The present case report illustrates the assessment of capacity in relation to issues such as consent, competence and ability to withstand court procedures of a witness with LDs who alleged abuse by her paid carer. It describes the support offered to her by a number of agencies, including the police, and the health and social services. Finally, new legislation is described that might enable vulnerable witnesses, including some people with LDs, to give their best evidence in criminal proceedings.
Correlational analysis of challenging behaviours
Authors: Whitaker Simon , Hirst Daniel
Published: March 2003

It is argued that challenging behaviours can be better understood if a correlational analysis (i.e. looking for correlations between the occurrence of the behaviour and other variables) is used in addition to functional analysis. A case example is provided of a man whose aggressive outbursts were negatively correlated with trips out of his unit.
Advocacy and the learning disability nurse
Authors: Jenkins Robert , Northway Ruth
Published: March 2003

Advocacy is often seen as an ideal role for nurses to undertake, especially when working with people who have a learning disability. However, advocacy is not without its risks and dilemmas for learning disability nurses. The present paper attempts to examine why people with learning disabilities may be viewed as vulnerable and why advocacy may be an appropriate activity to undertake. It explores some of the different types of advocacy and the dilemmas which learning disability nurses may face. Finally, guidance is offered on the type of role that learning disability nurses may take when acting as advocates on behalf of people with a learning disability.
Psychological intervention for people with learning disabilities who have experienced bereavement: a case study illustration
Authors: Summers S. J. , Witts P.
Published: March 2003

The evidence base for interventions for people with learning disabilities who have experienced a bereavement is sparse. This article reviews current theoretical understandings of bereavement and loss and describes the assessment, formulation and psychological treatment of a woman with learning disabilities with close reference to these understandings. A psychological intervention is described, which utilizes both psycho‐educational and psychodynamic approaches.
Inactivation of refrigerator biofilm bacteria for application in the food service environment
Authors: Michaels, Barry , Ayers, Troy , Celis Marlene , Gangar Vidhya
Published: March 2003

Refrigerator biofilm formation in food environments can result in spoilage and food safety problems. Biofouling of food contact surfaces are difficult to combat, and while there are significant risks involved with tolerating their presence, methods for their removal are not commonly available. In this study, biofilms were grown on plastic refrigerator trays. Cultures of mixed wild strains were started using kitchen scraps suspended in nutrient broth. Biofilms were allowed to mature with approximately 109 CFU per tray test area. Spoilage species identified included Pseudomonas putida, Sphingobacterium multivorum, Citrobacter freundii and Proteus vulgaris. A series of 39 different treatment interventions were trialed during three different biofilm test runs. Results obtained from treatments ranged from a less than 1 log10 reduction for light duty cleaning operations to over a 5 log10 reduction involving more complex treatment methods. The latter included combinations of hot soapy water (75 °C), scrubbing, treatment with high pH (12.0) cleaners followed by acetic acid (vinegar) exposure and included pre‐ and post‐treatment wiping with paper towels.
Learning from the competition II: a case history dissecting in‐market Quick‐Serve‐Restaurants communications through conjoint analysis
Authors: Moskowitz Howard , Itty Barbara , Manchaiah Madhu , Ma Zhenyu
Published: March 2003

This paper assesses the impact of current QSR (quick service restaurant) messages on the Internet by conjoint analysis. The stimuli comprised 89 short phrases taken from the web communications of different QSR’s, along with 14 different visuals depicting generic situations (e.g. people) or actual products (e.g. burgers). A total of 1 942 respondents participated, with each respondent generating an additive model showing the utility value of each of the 103 concept elements. The results suggest the existence of at least four and possibly five segments of respondents. Two segments comprise individuals who like the basic idea of QSR’s but are either indifferent to, or actually hostile to many of the communications. A third segment comprises individuals interested in ambiance and entertainment; a fourth segment comprises individuals interested in health; and a fifth segment comprises individuals interested in the food, and authentic good taste. No single QSR appeals to all of the segments. The study suggests the need for different communications in order to appeal to the segmented populations, and shows the specific communication elements appealing most strongly to each segment.
Perceived flavour changes in white wine after tasting blue mould cheese
Authors: Nygren I. T. , Gustafsson I.‐B. , Johansson L.
Published: March 2003

The object of this study was to evaluate by descriptive sensory analysis how the sensory perception of dry white wines was affected by prior tasting of blue mould cheese. Trained assessors profiled five commercial white wines before and after tasting each of two blue mould cheeses. The study showed that descriptive sensory analysis could be used to quantify changes in the perception of white wines after the consumption of cheese. For all five wines the main findings were that most of the intensities of perceived flavours and acidity decreased after tasting blue mould cheese.
Genetically modified crops: consumer attitudes and trends in plant research in Japan
Authors: Nishiura Hiroshi , Imai Hirohisa , Nakao Hiroyuki , Tsukino Hiromasa , Kuroda Yoshiki , Katoh Takahiko
Published: March 2003

Although Japanese consumers had relatively relaxed attitudes about genetically modified (GM) food five years ago, we now find that Japanese consumer acceptance has changed dramatically. Our survey utilized a postal questionnaire to a random sample of 200 Japanese consumers living in Miyazaki Prefecture and 150 Japanese plant breeding researchers. Results showed that Japanese consumers had become uneasy about the potential health risks of genetically modified foods. This issue is likely to be ethically motivated rather than scientific. Of the 106 responding Japanese plant breeding researchers, 77 (72.6%) said it was necessary to develop GM crops. The major reason being to overcome future food security problems. Most researchers thought the way to improve consumer acceptance was ‘To broadcast correct information through the mass media’ (73.6%).
Influence of settlement time, human population, park shape and age, visitation and roads on the number of alien plant species in protected areas in the USA
Authors: McKinney Michael L.
Published: March 2003

Abstract. I examined a data set of 77 protected areas in the USA (including national and state parks) to determine which of the following variables most strongly influence alien plant species richness: park area, climate (temperature and precipitation), native species richness, visitation rate, local human population size, total road length, park shape and duration of European settlement. Many of these predictor variables are intercorrelated, so I used multiple regression to help separate their effects. In support of previous studies, native species richness was the best single predictor of alien species richness, probably because it was a good estimator of both park area and habitat diversity available for establishment of alien species. Other significant predictors of alien species richness were years of occupation of the area by European settlers and the human population size of adjacent counties. Climate, visitation rate, road length and park shape did not influence alien species richness. The proportion of alien species (alien richness/native richness) is inversely related to park area, in agreement with a previous study. By identifying which variables are most important in determining alien species richness, such findings suggest ways to reduce alien species establishment.
Effects of CP‐060S, a novel cardioprotective drug, in the methacholine‐induced ECG change model in rats
Authors: Fukazawa Masanori , Adachi Yuichiro , Akima Michitaka , Imagawa Jun‐ichi , Suzuki Yoshiyuki , Kuromaru Osamu , Tamura Kazuhiko
Published: March 2003

We compared the antianginal effect of CP‐060S, a novel cardioprotective drug with Na+ and Ca2+ overload‐preventing activity as well as Ca2+ channel antagonistic activity, with that of diltiazem, in an experimental model of vasospastic angina induced by methacholine in anaesthetized rats. Intra‐aortic injection of methacholine at the coronary ostium provoked the ST‐segment elevation of the electrocardiogram (ECG), indicating myocardial ischemia. CP‐060S (3, 5 and 10 mg/kg, i.d.) significantly and dose‐dependently suppressed the methacholine‐induced ST‐elevation, with the duration of action being at least 3 h at the highest dose. In addition, CP‐060S at 3 mg/kg could inhibit the ST‐elevation without producing significant changes in blood pressure, heart rate or rate‐pressure product (RPP). In contrast, diltiazem (10 and 30 mg/kg, i.d.) significantly decreased the RPP, a significant suppression of the ST‐elevation could only be achieved at the highest dose and its duration of action was about 2 h. Similar results were obtained with i.v. administration of the drugs, i.e. CP‐060S given i.v. could inhibit the ST‐elevation with less haemodynamic changes than diltiazem. In conclusion, CP‐060S exerted a more potent and sustained protection against myocardial ischemia evoked by methacholine than diltiazem. The characteristics of the effects of CP‐060S observed here suggest that this drug may be a desirable drug for the treatment of vasospastic angina.
Comparison of two methods to obtain a desired first isepamicin peak in intensive care patients
Authors: Fauvelle Francis , Coulaud Jean‐Michel , Lecointre Karine , Tardy Dominique , Poussel Jean‐François , Trape Gérard
Published: March 2003

A randomized multicenter study in intensive care unit (ICU) patients, evaluated the capacity of a Bayesian method to obtain an optimal first isepamicin (ISP) peak of 80 mg/L in comparison to a fixed loading dose (LD). Patients (n=236) over 18 years of age were enrolled from 6 September 1997 to 17 July 1999 and randomly assigned to received ISP in a calculated dose (CD) or a loading dose (LD) of 25 mg/kg body weight. The CD was estimated using a specific population model with Bayesian methodology implemented in the PKS program (Abbott PKS, Abbott Diagnostics, Rungis, France). The data required included age, body weight, height, gender and serum creatinine. ISP disposition is described by a one‐compartment model. Blood samples were drawn 1 and 24 h after the start of infusion for fluorescence polarization immunoassay measurement of serum ISP concentrations. The predictive performance was assessed by computing bias and precision. Peak concentrations were significantly higher in CD group than the LD group (84.2 ± 28.6 vs. 74.7 ± 24.1 mg/L, respectively; P=0.008), but trough levels were comparable. The optimal ISP peak was attained by a significantly higher percentage of CD patients (P=0.018), and by significantly more CD patients on mechanical ventilation (P=0.025), and with simplified acute physiological scores (SAPS) > 35 (P=0.002). Pharmacokinetic parameters were similar for the two groups with large interindividual variations. Mean (± SD) volume of distribution of ventilated patients (72%) was significantly higher than of nonventilated patients (23.31 ± 7.35 vs. 20.60 ± 6.30 L, respectively; P=0.001). No relationship was found between the volume of distribution and SAPS. Total clearance was significantly correlated with estimated CLCR (creatinine clearance) (P=0.0001). Precision (RMSE) is better for CD than for LD strategy, respectively 27.96 and 28.66 mg/L.

The Bayesian method was significantly more accurate and performed particularly well in ventilated patients and patients with high SAPS, compare to an LD of 25 mg/kg to obtain a first ISP peak of 80 mg/L in ICU patients. Therefore, a fixed dose of 28.5 mg/kg would be also adequate to reach a peak of 80 mg/L.
Mechanisms of decreased bradykinin‐ induced vasodilation in experimental hyperlipemia–hyperglycemia: contribution of nitric oxide and Ca2+‐activated K+ channels
Authors: Georgescu Adriana , Popov Doina , Simionescu Maya
Published: March 2003

Common complications of diabetes are accelerated atherosclerosis and vascular disturbances. We investigated whether the simultaneous insult of hyperlipemia–hyperglycemia affects the reactivity of the resistance arteries to bradykinin (BK), and if so, what are the mechanisms responsible for this disturbance. Experiments were conducted on male Golden Syrian hamsters rendered hyperlipemic (H) by a fat‐rich diet, diabetic (D) by streptozotocin injection, or simultaneously hyperlipemic–diabetic (HD). Normal age‐matched animals were used as controls (C). At 24 weeks after the induction of disease(s) the vascular reactivity of the mesenteric resistance arteries to BK (10−8–10−4 M) was assayed by the myograph technique. To explore the role of nitric oxide (NO) in modulating the endothelium‐dependent BK‐induced relaxation, two experimental approaches were employed: (i) in vivo administration of L‐arginine (622.14 mg/kg bw) to H, D, and HD hamsters (for 12 weeks); (ii) in vitro blockage of nitric oxide synthase by N(ω)‐nitro‐ L‐arginine methyl ester (10−4 M). To evaluate the contribution of Ca2+‐activated K+ channel(s) to BK‐induced relaxation, the resistance arteries were exposed to 10−3 M tetraethylammonium. Comparatively, the endothelium‐independent relaxation was assayed using sodium nitroprusside (10−8–10−4 M). The results showed that compared to the H and D groups, the HD hamsters exhibited the most reduced vasodilation of the resistance arteries to BK (34.09 ± 1.5%). The diminished vasodilation was found to be due to a dual mechanism: an L‐arginine : NO pathway and a NO‐independent process, mediated via Ca2+‐activated K+ channels. In vivo administration of L‐arginine had favourable effects especially in the HD group, which manifested (i) an ˜ 30% improvement of attenuated BK relaxation, (ii) an increase in sensitivity of the response to BK, (iii) a 3‐fold diminishment of plasma hyperglycemia. Collectively, these data explain in part, the mechanisms and possible ways to correct the arterial endothelial dysfunction when diabetes is complicated with hyperlipemia.
Pharmacokinetic‐pharmacodynamic modeling of the inhibitory effect of erythromycin on tumour necrosis factor‐α and interleukin‐6 production
Authors: Guchelaar Henk‐Jan , Schultz Marc J. , Van Der Poll Tom , Koopmans Richard P.
Published: March 2003

Erythromycin inhibits the production of tumour necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) and interleukin‐6 (IL6) induced by heat‐killed Streptococcus pneumoniae in human whole blood ex‐vivo. The objective of the present study was to determine and characterize the concentration–effect relationship of this phenomenon in order to predict its possible clinical relevance.

Six healthy volunteers received a single intravenous dose of 1000 mg erythromycin. Blood samples were obtained up to 4 h after drug administration. Samples were assayed for erythromycin concentrations and (after heat‐killed Streptococcus pneumoniae stimulation) for TNF‐α and IL6 concentrations. Effect vs. time data from individual subjects were fitted to the indirect response model with an Emax concentration–effect relationship. Simulations of these effects were performed for therapeutic intravenous and oral erythromycin dosage regimens. The geometric means of the values of Kin, Kout and EC50 were 15.4 μg/h, 0.82/h, 9.4 mg/L for TNF‐α and 321 μg/h, 2.02/h, 18.3 mg/L for IL6. Simulations revealed a maximal inhibition of TNF‐α concentrations of 35%, 50%, 16% and 27% at erythromycin dosages of 500 mg iv, 1000 mg iv, 500 mg p.o and 1000 mg p.o. q 6 h, respectively, whereas a maximal inhibition of IL6 of 29%, 44%, 13% and 22% are predicted for the respective regimens. The inhibitory effect of erythromycin on TNF‐α and IL6 production can be adequately described by the indirect response model with an Emax concentration–effect relationship. Simulations predicted a substantial decrease of production of these cytokines at intravenous and to a much lesser extent at oral erythromycin dosage regimens.
New perspectives in CNS safety pharmacology
Authors: Porsolt Roger D. , Lemaire Martine , Dürmüller Niklaus , Roux Sylvain
Published: March 2003

International requirements for central nervous system (CNS) safety pharmacology are reviewed. Procedures for initial CNS safety screening (core battery studies) can be conducted from the beginning of the drug discovery process, but at latest before first studies in man. They should include assessment of general behaviour, locomotor activity and motor coordination, but can also include studies of pain sensitivity, convulsive threshold and interaction with hypnotics. Follow‐up studies, to be conducted later in the drug development process but before product approval, cover assessment of higher cognitive function, electroencephalogram (EEG) and drug dependence/abuse liability. Procedures for assessing cognitive function can include, in order of complexity, passive avoidance, Morris and radial mazes and operant behaviour tasks (delayed alternation, repeated acquisition). EEG can include the quantified EEG (QEEG) and studies of the sleep/wakefulness cycle. Drug dependence/abuse procedures can include precipitated and nonprecipitated withdrawal (drug dependence), and place preference, drug discrimination and self‐administration (drug abuse). In contrast to core battery CNS procedures, conducted exclusively in rodents, follow‐up studies can include higher species, in particular primates.
Non‐contribution of renin‐angiotensin system to pressor response to NG‐nitro‐L‐arginine in dogs
Authors: Ishikawa Tomohisa , Nejishima Hiromasa , Imamura Takuya , Nakayama Koichi
Published: March 2003

Acute systemic blockade of nitric oxide (NO) production by nonselective inhibitors of NO synthase (NOS) isoforms, including NG‐nitro‐L‐arginine methyl ester (L‐NAME) and NG‐nitro‐L‐arginine (L‐NNA), has been shown to produce a long‐lasting pressor response in conscious and anaesthetised animals. The present study was undertaken to clarify whether the renin‐angiotensin system contributes to the development of this pressor response to L‐NNA. Systemic blood pressure and heart rate were continuously monitored in dogs anaesthetised with pentobarbital. Plasma renin activity in the blood obtained from a femoral artery and a renal vein was measured by use of radioimmunoassay. The acute pressor response produced by the intravenous administration of L‐NNA was accompanied by reduced renin activity in both systemic and renal vascular beds. Captopril, an angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor, counteracted the pressor response to L‐NNA, whereas candesartan, an angiotensin AT1‐receptor antagonist, had no apparent effect on it. The counteraction by captopril of the L‐NNA‐induced pressor response was likely to be attributable to enhancement by captopril of depressor responses to bradykinin, as HOE‐140, a bradykinin B2 receptor antagonist, neutralised the effect of captopril. These results suggest that the pressor response acutely produced by the intravenous injection of a NOS inhibitor is not mediated by the renin‐angiotensin system in anaesthetised dogs.
The application of in vitro methods to safety pharmacology
Authors: Wakefield Ian D. , Pollard Chris , Redfern William S. , Hammond Timothy G. , Valentin Jean‐Pierre
Published: March 2003

The ICH S7A guideline defines safety pharmacology (SP) studies as those that investigate `the potential undesirable pharmacodynamic effects of a substance on physiological functions in relation to exposure in the therapeutic range and above', and permits both in vivo and in vitro techniques, as appropriate. The implementation of these ICH guidelines by the pharmaceutical industry – whilst providing a welcome and long overdue clarity into the scientific rationale, timing and regulatory requirements for SP studies – has also generated new challenges, both logistical and scientific, which have a major impact on drug development. These factors have motivated us to consider the introduction of in vitro techniques at an early stage of SP evaluation. Amongst these factors are: the expanded range of study types and physiological parameters to be assessed, the increased `front‐loading' of SP at earlier stages of the drug discovery process; the greater number of new chemical entities (NCEs) to be tested, together with limited compound supply; the condensed time frames for drug development, the higher and quicker throughput of in vitro vs. in vivo tests; the increasing predictability of in vitro tests and application of the `3Rs' rule of animal welfare (reduction, replacement and refinement). Also, there is the failure of traditional in vivo safety evaluation to predict certain clinical side‐effects. The use of molecular (e.g. fluorescence and cloned ion channel), cellular (e.g. patch clamp and isolated cardiac cells) and tissue‐based (e.g. microelectrodes and Purkinje fibres) methods offers a wide portfolio of novel techniques for SP evaluation of NCEs at a pre‐in vivo stage. Thus, innovative in vitro techniques will contribute significantly to the early SP evaluation of NCEs.
MEGX disposition in critically‐ill trauma patients: subsequent assessments during the first week following trauma
Authors: Pea Federico , Licari Maurizia , Baldassarre Marco , Furlanut Mario
Published: March 2003

The objective of this study was to evaluate MEGX disposition as a surrogate marker in assessing the influence that injury may exert on liver function during the first week after the traumatic event in young vs. elderly patients. The MEGX exposure over time was assessed at 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, 4 and 6 h after the intravenous administration of a 1 mg/kg lidocaine test dose in 12 young and 7 elderly trauma patients on days1, 4 and 7 after a severe injury (Apache II score > 10). MEGX plasma concentration–time profiles were consistently different on day 1 in the elderly vs. young, consistent with a statistically significant lower rate of both lidocaine clearance and MEGX formation, and with a considerably longer MEGX elimination in the elderly than in the young. This suggests an impairment of liver blood flow as a result of splanchnic vasoconstriction occurring mainly in elderly trauma patients. A significant improvement in MEGX disposition occurred on days 4 and 7 vs. the day of trauma in most elderly, whereas minor changes were observed in the young. Multiple factors may account for these major changes in the elderly: the more severe status, the major sensitivity to the pathophysiologic changes induced by trauma, and also at least partially the ageing processes. Although referring to a limited number of observations, our findings on MEGX disposition suggest that liver function may be affected by the severity of injury, even if the influence of age should not be underestimated in these patients.
Impact of ambulatory blood pressure monitoring on daily activity
Authors: Green J. Hilary , Madigan J.B.
Published: March 2003

We evaluated the impact of wearing an ambulatory blood pressure (ABP) monitor on the usual daily activity of 16 healthy men and women. Daily ABP and heart rate (HR) were recorded on 2 days using the DynaPulse 5000 A system. Daily HR and activity were recorded on two further days using a dedicated HR monitoring system. All four sets of measurements were made for 8 h during which time the volunteers kept a simultaneous diary record of their physical activity. There was no detectable difference in physical activity records on any day. Mean daily HR was lower during ABP monitoring than during the dedicated HR monitoring carried out on different occasions (73 ± 7 versus 81 ± 7 beats min–1, P<0·001). The lower mean HR observed during ABP monitoring compared with dedicated HR monitoring may reflect subtle differences in the physical behaviour of subjects being monitored, which could not be detected from the diary records.
Regulation of cerebral blood flow in patients with autonomic dysfunction and severe postural hypotension
Authors: Hesse Birger , Mehlsen Jesper , Boesen Finn , Schmidt Jes F. , Andersen Erling B. , Waldemar Gunhild , Andersen Allan R. , Paulson Olaf B. , Vorstrup Sissel
Published: March 2003

Background: Whether cerebral blood flow (CBF) autoregulation is maintained in autonomic dysfunction has been debated for a long time, and the rather sparse data available are equivocal. The relationship between CBF and mean arterial blood pressure (MABP) was therefore tested in eight patients with symptoms and signs of severe cardiovascular autonomic dysfunction.

Patients and methods: Eight patients were included, three of whom had Parkinson's disease, three diabetes, one pure autonomic failure and the last one had multiple system atrophy. By the use of two techniques, the arteriovenous oxygen [(a‐v)O2] method and xenon‐inhalation with single photon emission tomography, 15 measurements (range 10–20) and three to four CBF measurements, respectively, were obtained in each patient. Following CBF measurements during baseline, MABP was raised gradually using intravenous noradrenaline infusion, and then lowered by application of lower body negative pressure. From the (a‐v)O2 samples the CBF response to changes in MABP was evaluated using a computer program fitting one or two regression lines through the plot.

Results and conclusion: Preserved autoregulation was observed in three patients, while the remaining five patients showed a linear relationship between CBF and MABP. Comparison of the results of the tomographic CBF measurements to the (a‐v)O2 data demonstrated that it is not possible to assess whether CBF is autoregulated or not with only three to four pairs of data.
Economics: Theory versus Practice in Wildlife Management
Authors: Rasker Raymond , Martin Michael V. , Johnson Rebecca L.
Published: March 2003

One of the most controversial issues in wildlife management in North America is the trend towards the commercialization of wildlife. The sale of hunting privileges and game ranching are forms of wildlife commercialization that have not been unanimously accepted, and widely opposing views exist on the merits and drawbacks of the use of economic incentives for the management of wild animals. In this essay the use of economics is explored from a theoretical “free market” perspective and from a more practical point of view. The issue of market failure is addressed and potential solutions are offered, such as tax incentives and government farm programs. Also the question of when market‐oriented solutions are applicable to wildlife is discussed. We conclude that polarization of the issue is counterproductive and that some of the more innovative solutions to current wildlife management problems can be found between the opposite extremes of public ownership and the profit‐motivated incentives offered by the market.
Rapid Loss of Genetic Variation in Large Captive Populations of Drosophila Flies: Implications for the Genetic Management of Captive Populations
Authors: Briscoe D.A. , Malpica J.M. , Robertson A. , Smith Gabrielle J. , Frankham R. , Banks R.G. , Barker J.S.F.
Published: March 2003

Levels of variation in eight large captive populations of D. melanogaster (census sizes ∼ 5000) that had been in captivity for periods from 6 months to 23 years (8 to 365 generations) were estimated from allozyme heterozygosities, lethal frequencies, and inversion heterozygosities and phenotypic variances, additive genetic variances (VA), and heritabilities (h2) for sternopleural bristle numbers. Correlations between all measures of variation except lethal frequencies were high and significant. All measures of genetic variation declined with time in captivity, with those for average heterozygosities, VA, and h2 being significant. The effective population size (Ne) was estimated to be 185–253 in these populations, only 0.037–0.051 of census size (N). Levels of allozyme heterozygosities declined rapidly in two large captive populations founded from another wild stock, being reduced by 86% and 62% within 2.5 years in spite of being maintained at sizes of approximately 1000 and 3500. Estimates of Ne/N for these populations were only 0.016 and 0.004. Two estimates of Ne/N for captive populations of D. pseudoobscura from data in the literature were also low at 0.036 and 0.012. Consequently, the rate of loss of genetic variation in captive populations and endangered species may be more rapid than hitherto recognized. Merely maintaining captive populations at large census sizes may not be sufficient to maintain essential genetic variation.
A Dynamic Analysis of Northern Spotted Owl Viability in a Fragmented Forest Landscape*
Authors: Lamberson Roland H. , McKelvey Robert , Noon Barry R. , Voss Curtis
Published: March 2003

The Northern Spotted Owl (Strix occidentalis caurina.) is closely associated with mature and oligarchic congruous forests in the Pacific Northwest. There has been a rapid loss and fragmentation of this habitat over the last half century, which may jeopardize the longevity survival of the species through reduction of dispersal success. In this paper we report results of a population model for the Northern Spotted Owl that incorporates both juvenile dispersal and search for mates. We analyze both deterministic and statistic versions of the model in search of thresholds for population persistence related to search efficiency, population density, and amount of suitable habitat. In addition, we analyze the model under the nonequivalent conditions that currently exist due to timber harvest in the owls preferred habitat. Our results predict a sharp threshold below which populations cannot persist, and suggest that inferences from population models that incorporate equilibrium assumptions may be highly misleading.
Augmenting Small Populations of Plovers: An Assessment of Cross‐Fostering and Captive‐Rearing
Authors: Powell Abby N. , Cuthbert Francesca J.
Published: March 2003

This study compared the growth and behavioral development of parent‐reared, cross‐fostered, and captive‐reared Killdeer (Charadrius vociferus) chicks. Common species were used to test these techniques for possible application to rare endangered forms. Parent‐reared chicks were raised naturally in the wild, cross‐fostered chicks were raised by Spotted Sandpipers (Actitis macularia) in the wild, and captive‐reared chicks were raised in captivity by humans. Both hatching and fledging success were significantly increased by captive‐rearing, and cross‐fostering produced approximately the same number of fledged young as natural parent‐rearing. Captive‐reared Killdeer chicks spent more time resting and less time feeding and stayed closer to siblings than cross‐fostered or parent‐reared chicks; these behavioral differences were not seen after release to the wild. Growth rates among the three groups were similar. All of the young Killdeer responded to Killdeer alarm calls. There was no evidence that captive‐reared and cross‐fostered Killdeer were negatively affected by their early experiences. Captive‐rearing is a viable management technique for augmenting small populations of endangered shorebirds, such as the Piping Plover (Charadrius melodus). It is recommended over cross‐fostering because captive‐rearing is more flexible as a technique, produces more young, does not affect another species, and does not produce potential imprinting problems.
Extirpation of Crayfish in a Lake Affected by Long‐Range Anthropogenic Acidification
Authors: France R.L. , Collins N.C.
Published: March 2003

Plastic Lake, Ontario, remote from any point sources of pollutants, is the most thoroughly investigated anthropogenically acidifying lake in North America. As the lake pH decreased from 5.8 to 5.6 over a period of six years, a resident population of the crayfish Orconectes virilis, which had previously exhibited abundances typical of those of nearby Canadian Shield lakes, became extinct. This is one of only half a dozen documented examples of biotic impoverishment due to the long‐range aerial transport of strong acids. The loss of crayfish could not be explained by changes in the predaceous fish community. However, the pH range over which extinction occurred matched that of experimentally acidified Lake 223 where O. virilis began to decline dramatically due to recruitment failures, calcium imbalances, and possibly parasite infection. O. virilis appears to be the third component of the benthic invertebrate fauna of Plastic Lake that has been extirpated by anthropogenic acidification.
Effects of Timber Harvesting on Southern Appalachian Salamanders
Authors: Petranka James W. , Eldridge Matthew E. , Haley Katherine E.
Published: March 2003

We compared the species richness and abundance of salamanders on six recent clearcuts (< 10 years old) with that of salamanders on 34 mature forest stands (>50 years old) in southern Appalachian forests in western North Carolina, U.S.A. Catches of salamanders from plots in mature forest stands were about five times higher than those on recent clearcuts. Almost all species and major taxonomic groups of salamanders were adversely affected by timber removal. Mean number of species collected per plot was about twice as great in mature forest stands as in clearcuts. Analyses of stand age versus salamander catch for 47 plots indicate that 50–70 years are required for populations to return to predisturbance levels following cutting. We conservatively estimate that clearcutting in U.S. national forests in western North Carolina results in a loss of nearly 14 millton salamanders annually. It also is chronically reducing regional populations by more than a quarter of a billion salamanders (9%) below that which could be sustained if mature forests were not cut.
Logging, Conifers, and the Conservation of Crossbills
Authors: Benkman Craig W.
Published: March 2003

A survey of the forestry literature shows that as the age and area of coniferous forests decline, decreased conifer seed production and increased frequencies of cone failures can be expected. This would, in turn, cause declines in crossbills (Loxia), which specialize on the seeds held in conifer cones. In western North America, at least five different species of Red Crossbills (L. curvirostra) have recently been distinguished (Groth 1990); each specializes on a different species or even a single variety of conifer (Benkman 1993). Measures for conserving this diversity of crossbills include protecting mature and old‐growth stands, and increasing rotation ages throughout the range of each of the required conifers. These recommendations are not unique to crossbills, but rather the loss of crossbill diversity is another reason to employ such measures.
The Effects of Predation by Nile Perch, Lates niloticus L., on the Fish of Lake Nabugabo, with Suggestions for Conservation of Endangered Endemic Cichlids
Authors: Ogutu‐Ohwayo Richard
Published: March 2003

As in Lake Victoria and Lake Kyoga, most of the native fish species of Lake Nabugabo have either been depleted or have disappeared since Lates niloticus, Nile perch, and Oreochromis niloticus, a tilapiine, were introduced. L. niloticus, O. niloticus, Schilbe intermedius, Brycinus jacksonii, and Rastrineobola argentea are the only species still abundant and widespread in the lake. Of the five haplochromine species endemic to Lake Nabugabo, at least one has vanished and the remaining ones are very rare. The prey of the Nile perch in Lake Nabugabo, with the exception of the prawn Caridina nilotica, which is absent from the lake, are similar to those the predator switched to in Lakes Victoria and Kyoga after haplochromines had been depleted. These consist of ephemeropterans—especially Povilla, the anisopteran nymphs R. argentea, tilapiines, and juvenile Nile perch. Three small lakes adjacent to Lake Nabugabo—Lake Kayanja, Lake Kayugi, and Lake Manywa—contain large numbers of Oreochromis esculentus and two haplochromine species previously known only in Lake Nabugabo. These three lakes should be designated conservation areas for the cichlids and other native species that were previously abundant in Lakes Victoria, Kyoga, and Nabugabo. The swamps around these lakes should be protected so that the Nile perch does not spread into them. Further research should be carried out to ensure the preservation of the endemic species.
Genetic Analyses Through DNA Fingerprinting of Captive Populations of Hawaiian Geese
Authors: Rave Elizabeth H. , Fleischer Robert C. , Duvall Fern , Black Jeffrey M.
Published: March 2003

DNA fingerprinting was used to assess levels of genetic variation in 106 Hawaiian Geese, or Nene (Branta sandvicensis), from two captive colonies in Hawaii and Slimbridge, England. Mantel tests were used to determine differences in mean similarity coefficients obtained from DNA fingerprints between unrelated and related Nene within and between captive colonies and to determine whether pedigree‐based estimates of relatedness correlated with DNA fingerprint‐based estimates. Between colonies, mean similarity coefficients for unrelated and related Slimbridge Nene were higher than those for Hawaiian Nene. Within each colony, related Nene bad higher mean similarity coefficients than did unrelated Nene. A positive relationship was found between coancestry coefficients and similarity coefficients. A greater number of founders for the Hawaiian colony contributed to the lower mean similarity coefficients. As genetic variation decreases, difficulty in distinguishing relatedness among individuals using DNA fingerprinting may increase. Lower genetic variation also may increase tine error in estimating the relationship between coancestry and similarity coefficients. DNA fingerprinting of Nene identified unique alleles and can determine optimal pairings between individuals. The calibrated similarity coefficient distributions can help determine the relatedness of individuals in wild populations of Nene.
Applying Principles of Landscape Design and Management to Integrate Old‐Growth Forest Enhancement and Commodity Use
Authors: Mladenoff David J. , White Mark A. , Crow Thomas R. , Pastor John
Published: March 2003

Using geographic information systems (GIS) and spatial analysis techniques, we developed a landscape design to maintain old‐growth forest remnants and integrate commodity production in the surrounding second‐growth matrix. The 4500‐ha forest landscape in northern Wisconsin contains scattered patches of old‐growth eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis) and northern hardwoods, predominately sugar maple (Acer saccharum). The design incorporates an old‐growth restoration zone surrounding old‐growth patches to buffer and enhance forest‐interior habitat and link nearby old‐growth remnants. This addition restores aspects of landscape patch size and structure and ecosystem juxtaposition that characterize a nearby, large, and contiguous natural old‐growth landscape. A larger secondary zone is delineated for uneven‐aged forest management. This zone provides a matrix structurally similar to the old‐growth patches but also accommodates harvesting. A larger outer zone is retained primarily in even‐aged forest of aspen (Populus tremuloides) and paper birch (Betula papyrifera), but traditional clearcutting practices are modified to partial cutting and mixed‐species rotations. This design meets limited goals of biodiversity enhancement and integrated commodity production in a landscape that will remain largely harvested. The landscape design is therefore improved not only by buffers and corridors provided to old‐growth ecosystems, but by modifying the management of the majority commodity lands matrix as well.