bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Large Conductance Calcium-Activated Potassium Channels (BKCa) Modulate Trigeminovascular Nociceptive Transmission
Authors: Storer RJ , Immke DC , Yin R , Goadsby PJ
Published: April 2009

Migraine is a common, disabling, neurological problem whose acute management would benefit from the development of purely neurally acting therapies. The trigeminocervical complex is pivotal in nociceptive signaling in migraine, and is an accepted target for putative antimigraine agents. Whole-cell patch-clamp or extracellular recordings were made of trigeminal neurons identified in rat brainstem slices. Bath application of the large conductance calcium-activated potassium (BKCa) channel opener NS1619 caused a dramatic decrease of cell firing that could be reversed by the co-application of iberiotoxin. NS1619 hyperpolarized the resting membrane potential and reduced the frequency of spontaneous action potentials in these neurons. These data suggest the presence of BKCa channels in the trigeminocervical complex. In vivo in cat L-glutamate-evoked firing was facilitated in nociceptive neurons, also responding to stimulation of the superior sagittal sinus, in the trigeminal nucleus caudalis by the BKCa peptide antagonists, iberiotoxin and slotoxin. Of units tested, 70% responded to microiontophoretic application of the blockers, identifying a subpopulation of trigeminal neurons expressing toxin-sensitive BKCa channels. NS1619 inhibited 74% of cells tested, and this was reversed by slotoxin, suggesting that the action of NS1619 in these cells was mediated through BKCa channels. These data are consistent with the presence of BKCa channels in the trigeminal nucleus caudalis that are potential targets for the development of antimigraine treatments, and may also offer insights into receptor mechanisms involved in sensitization and thus allodynia, in migraine.
Visitor profile, satisfaction levels and clustering of tourists for decision making in Michoacan, Mexico
Authors: Serrato Marco A. , Tello Juan , Díaz Angel , García Sergio , Castillo Juan C.
Published: April 2009

The state of Michoacán, one of the states with the lowest economic development in Mexico, has been historically recognized because of its potential for tourism activities. The revenues coming from this economic sector, as well as the number of tourists who visit this state have significantly increased during the last few years. A survey was conducted on tourists who visited Michoacán, in order to determine the visitors' profile and their satisfaction levels during their visit. A cluster analysis was then used to categorize the lifestyle of these tourists into five different segments, to be able to develop the best tourism products, marketing strategies and aid the decision‐making process of government and private organizations related to this sector. A regression analysis was also performed to identify the variables that determine the satisfaction of these tourists. The results are satisfactory in the sense that the actions taken, which were based on this research and led by the Ministry of Tourism of Michoacán and the Ministry of Tourism of Mexico, have attracted more national and international groups, and have also increased the revenues, profits and new investments reported by private organizations related to this economic sector.
Canine mammary gland tumours; a histological continuum from benign to malignant; clinical and histopathological evidence*
Authors: Sorenmo K. U. , Kristiansen V. M. , Cofone M. A. , Shofer F. S. , Breen A.‐M. , Langeland M. , Mongil C. M. , Grondahl A. M. , Teige J. , Goldschmidt M. H.
Published: April 2009

This study describes the clinical and histopathological findings in dogs with mammary gland tumours, and compares the histopathological and clinical evidence consistent with progression from benign to malignant to human breast cancer epidemiology. Clinical and histopathological data on 90 female dogs with 236 tumours was included. Dogs with malignant tumours were significantly older than dogs with benign tumours (9.5 versus 8.5 years), P = 0.009. Malignant tumours were significantly larger than benign tumours (4.7 versus 2.1 cm), P = 0.0002. Sixty‐six percent had more than one tumour, and evidence of histological progression was noted with increasing tumour size. Dogs with malignant tumours were significantly more likely to develop new primary tumours than dogs with benign tumours, P = 0.015. These findings suggest that canine mammary tumours progress from benign to malignant; malignant tumours may be the end stage of a histological continuum with clinical and histopathological similarities to human breast carcinogenesis.
Reading Florus in early modern England
Authors: Jensen Freyja Cox
Published: April 2009

Abstracts

The Epitome of Roman History, attributed to Lucius Annaeus Florus, was a key text in the universities of early modern England. This paper seeks to trace the procedures and purposes of early‐modern readers as they used Florus as part of their classical and historical studies. Two manuscript notebooks form the basis of the piece: one dates from the late‐sixteenth century, kept by Samuel Foxe, son of the martyrologist; the other is that of Simonds D'Ewes, dating from around 1620. Both contain lengthy, but significantly selective, notes on Florus. Comparing these notes with the editions available at the time, the paper explores the mutability of texts within the reading process, and looks at what is revealed of the readers' intentions through their parallel and active note‐taking. The paper explores the act of reading as part of the educational system in the Elizabethan and Jacobean period, using contextualizing evidence about tutors' instructions to their students to locate the two notebooks within a framework of ideas about the academic concept of history.
Low Fertility in Men with Epilepsy: Unhappy, Uninterested, Unable
Authors: Blume Warren T.
Published: April 2009

Sexual Function in Men with Epilepsy: How Important Is Testosterone? Talbot JA, Sheldrick R, Caswell H, Duncan S. Neurology 2008;70(16):1346–1352. OBJECTIVE: To ascertain the effects on sexual function of men with epilepsy (MWE) of testosterone levels and indices of anxiety and depression. METHODS: Sixty MWE taking one antiepileptic drug only (AED), with no comedication, were compared with 60 control men. Total testosterone (TT), free testosterone (FT), bioactive testosterone (BAT), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), androstenedione, and sex hormone–binding globulin (SHBG) were measured. Each man also completed validated questionnaires exploring sexual desire (Sexual Desire Inventory [SDI]), sexual response (Sexual Response Inventory [SRI]), erectile function (Sexual Self-Efficacy Scale [SSES]), and anxiety and depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale). RESULTS: MWE reported lower levels of sexual desire and lower erectile function compared with controls. They had significantly higher levels of anxiety, depression, and psychological distress. MWE had significantly higher SHBG levels and significantly lower DHEAS. There were no significant differences between the groups’ TT, FT, or BAT levels. BAT levels were significantly lower in men taking enzyme-inducing AEDs than in those taking non–enzyme-inducing AEDs. Visual inspection of TT and BAT levels showed that the majority of MWE and controls had TT and BAT levels above the “androgen threshold” levels of 12 nmol/L TT or 3.8 nmol/L BAT considered necessary for normal sexual function. There was a significant correlation (Spearman rank and simple linear regression) between sexual function and indices of anxiety and depression. There was no significant relationship between SDI and SSES and TT, FT, or BAT (Spearman rank correlation). CONCLUSIONS: Concentrating on hormone levels alone as an explanation of sexual dysfunction in epilepsy represents an overly simplistic approach to the problem. Future studies should include measures of quality of life, anxiety, and depression.
Should Levetiracetam Replace Phenytoin for Seizure Prophylaxis after Neurosurgery?
Authors: Fountain Nathan B.
Published: April 2009

Efficacy and Tolerability of Levetiracetam versus Phenytoin after Supratentorial Neurosurgery. Milligan TA, Hurwitz S, Bromfield EB. Neurology 2008;71(9):665–669. BACKGROUND: Antiepileptic drugs are routinely given after craniotomy. Though phenytoin (PHT) is still the most commonly used agent, levetiracetam (LEV) is increasingly administered for this purpose. This retrospective study compared the use of LEV and PHT as monotherapy prophylaxis following supratentorial neurosurgery. METHODS: Patients receiving LEV monotherapy after supratentorial craniotomy were reviewed and compared to a control group of patients receiving PHT monotherapy. RESULTS: One of 105 patients taking LEV and 9/210 patients taking PHT had seizures within 7 days of surgery ( p = 0.17). Adverse drug reactions requiring change in therapy during hospitalization occurred in 1/105 patients taking LEV and 38/210 patients taking PHT ( p < 0.001). Among patients followed for at least 12 months, 11/42 (26%) treated with LEV vs 42/117 (36%) treated with PHT developed epilepsy ( p = 0.34); 64% remained on LEV, while 26% remained on PHT ( p = 0.03). CONCLUSIONS: Both levetiracetam (LEV) and phenytoin (PHT) were associated with a low risk of early postoperative seizures and a moderate risk of later epilepsy. LEV was associated with significantly fewer early adverse reactions than PHT and with a higher retention rate in patients who were followed for at least 1 year and developed epilepsy.
Adopting an Orphan Drug: Rufinamide for Lennox–Gastaut Syndrome
Authors: Herman Susan T.
Published: April 2009

Rufinamide for Generalized Seizures Associated with Lennox–Gastaut Syndrome. Glauser T, Kluger G, Sachdeo R, Krauss G, Perdomo C, Arroyo S. Neurology 2008;70(21):1950–1958. BACKGROUND: Lennox–Gastaut syndrome is a catastrophic pediatric epilepsy syndrome characterized by multiple types of treatment-resistant seizures and high rates of seizure-related injury. Current available treatments are inadequate, leaving patients with few treatment options and opportunities. METHODS: We conducted a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of the antiepileptic drug rufinamide in patients with Lennox–Gastaut syndrome. Eligible patients between 4 and 30 years of age had multiple types of seizures (including tonic–atonic and atypical absence seizures) with a minimum of 90 seizures in the month before baseline and a recent history of a slow spike-and-wave pattern on EEG. RESULTS: After a 28-day baseline period, 139 eligible patients were randomized; 138 patients received either rufinamide (n = 74) or placebo (n = 64) in addition to their other antiepileptic drugs. The median percentage reduction in total seizure frequency was greater in the rufinamide therapy group than in the placebo group (32.7% vs 11.7%, p = 0.0015). There was a difference ( p < 0.0001) in tonic–atonic (“drop attack”) seizure frequency with rufinamide (42.5% median percentage reduction) vs placebo (1.4% increase). The rufinamide group had a greater improvement in seizure severity ( p = 0.0041) and a higher 50% responder rate compared with placebo for total seizures ( p = 0.0045) and tonic–atonic seizures ( p = 0.002). The common adverse events (reported by 10% of patients receiving rufinamide) were somnolence (24.3% with rufinamide vs 12.5% with placebo) and vomiting (21.6% vs 6.3%). CONCLUSIONS: Rufinamide was an effective and well-tolerated treatment for seizures associated with Lennox–Gastaut syndrome.
A New, Progressive Myoclonic Epilepsy: Is it a Chronicle of the Noncanonical or a Failure to REST?
Authors: Gallagher Martin
Published: April 2009

A Homozygous Mutation in Human PRICKLE1 Causes an Autosomal-Recessive Progressive Myoclonus Epilepsy-Ataxia Syndrome. Bassuk AG, Wallace RH, Buhr A, Buller AR, Afawi Z, Shimojo M, Miyata S, Chen S, Gonzalez-Alegre P, Griesbach HL, Wu S, Nashelsky M, Vladar EK, Antic D, Ferguson PJ, Cirak S, Voit T, Scott MP, Axelrod JD, Gurnett C, Daoud AS, Kivity S, Neufeld MY, Mazarib A, Straussberg R, Walid S, Korczyn AD, Slusarski DC, Berkovic SF, El-Shanti HI. Am J Hum Genet 2008;83(5):572–581. Progressive myoclonus epilepsy (PME) is a syndrome characterized by myoclonic seizures (lightning-like jerks), generalized convulsive seizures, and varying degrees of neurological decline, especially ataxia and dementia. Previously, we characterized three pedigrees of individuals with PME and ataxia, where either clinical features or linkage mapping excluded known PME loci. This report identifies a mutation in PRICKLE1 (also known as RILP for REST/NRSF interacting LIM domain protein) in all three of these pedigrees. The identified PRICKLE1 mutation blocks the PRICKLE1 and REST interaction in vitro and disrupts the normal function of PRICKLE1 in an in vivo zebrafish overexpression system. PRICKLE1 is expressed in brain regions implicated in epilepsy and ataxia in mice and humans, and, to our knowledge, is the first molecule in the noncanonical WNT signaling pathway to be directly implicated in human epilepsy.
Feeling Out the Elephant in the Room: Why Do Temporal Lobe Seizures Cause Unconsciousness?
Authors: Lagrange Andre H.
Published: April 2009

Remote Effects of Focal Hippocampal Seizures on the Rat Neocortex. Englot DJ, Mishra AM, Mansuripur PK, Herman P, Hyder F, Blumenfeld H. J Neurosci 2008;28(36):9066–9081. Seizures have both local and remote effects on nervous system function. Whereas propagated seizures are known to disrupt cerebral activity, little work has been done on remote network effects of seizures that do not propagate. Human focal temporal lobe seizures demonstrate remote changes including slow waves on electroencephalography (EEG) and decreased cerebral blood flow (CBF) in the neocortex. Ictal neocortical slow waves have been interpreted as seizure propagation; however, we hypothesize that they reflect a depressed cortical state resembling sleep or coma. To investigate this hypothesis, we performed multimodal studies of partial and secondarily generalized limbic seizures in rats. Video/EEG monitoring of spontaneous seizures revealed slow waves in the frontal cortex during behaviorally mild partial seizures, contrasted with fast polyspike activity during convulsive generalized seizures. Seizures induced by hippocampal stimulation produced a similar pattern, and were used to perform functional magnetic resonance imaging weighted for blood oxygenation and blood volume, demonstrating increased signals in hippocampus, thalamus and septum, but decreases in orbitofrontal, cingulate, and retrosplenial cortex during partial seizures, and increases in all of these regions during propagated seizures. Combining these results with neuronal recordings and CBF measurements, we related neocortical slow waves to reduced neuronal activity and cerebral metabolism during partial seizures, but found increased neuronal activity and metabolism during propagated seizures. These findings suggest that ictal neocortical slow waves represent an altered cortical state of depressed function, not propagated seizure activity. This remote effect of partial seizures may cause impaired cerebral functions, including loss of consciousness.
Smart Power
Authors: NYE JOSEPH S.
Published: April 2009

President Barack Obama pledged in his first TV interview—with the Arab satellite channel Al Arabiya—that America under his watch would “listen with respect and not dictate” to the world. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has further announced that this country will no longer just throw around its military might but will pursue a “smart power” approach by tempering the use of hard weaponry with the “soft power” of persuasion and cultural attraction. Or, as Madame Secretary's husband Bill has put it, America will now lead through the power of example instead of the example of power.

The first exceedingly complex test of Obama's smart power strategy will be how to end George W. Bush's misguided “war on terror” in Afghanistan and Pakistan, keeping al‐Qaida at bay without being swallowed by the quagmire of tribal politics. An array of experts from New Delhi to Paris offers their views in this section.
End the “War on Terror” and Talk to the Taliban
Authors: ROY OLIVIER
Published: April 2009

President Barack Obama pledged in his first TV interview—with the Arab satellite channel Al Arabiya—that America under his watch would “listen with respect and not dictate” to the world. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has further announced that this country will no longer just throw around its military might but will pursue a “smart power” approach by tempering the use of hard weaponry with the “soft power” of persuasion and cultural attraction. Or, as Madame Secretary's husband Bill has put it, America will now lead through the power of example instead of the example of power.

The first exceedingly complex test of Obama's smart power strategy will be how to end George W. Bush's misguided “war on terror” in Afghanistan and Pakistan, keeping al‐Qaida at bay without being swallowed by the quagmire of tribal politics. An array of experts from New Delhi to Paris offers their views in this section.
Shari'a in Swat: A Dangerous Surrender to Islamists
Authors: ALI AYAAN HIRSI
Published: April 2009

President Barack Obama pledged in his first TV interview—with the Arab satellite channel Al Arabiya—that America under his watch would “listen with respect and not dictate” to the world. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has further announced that this country will no longer just throw around its military might but will pursue a “smart power” approach by tempering the use of hard weaponry with the “soft power” of persuasion and cultural attraction. Or, as Madame Secretary's husband Bill has put it, America will now lead through the power of example instead of the example of power.

The first exceedingly complex test of Obama's smart power strategy will be how to end George W. Bush's misguided “war on terror” in Afghanistan and Pakistan, keeping al‐Qaida at bay without being swallowed by the quagmire of tribal politics. An array of experts from New Delhi to Paris offers their views in this section.
As Obama Gears Up in Afghanistan, Pakistan Faces Leadership Void
Authors: RASHID AHMED
Published: April 2009

President Barack Obama pledged in his first TV interview—with the Arab satellite channel Al Arabiya—that America under his watch would “listen with respect and not dictate” to the world. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has further announced that this country will no longer just throw around its military might but will pursue a “smart power” approach by tempering the use of hard weaponry with the “soft power” of persuasion and cultural attraction. Or, as Madame Secretary's husband Bill has put it, America will now lead through the power of example instead of the example of power.

The first exceedingly complex test of Obama's smart power strategy will be how to end George W. Bush's misguided “war on terror” in Afghanistan and Pakistan, keeping al‐Qaida at bay without being swallowed by the quagmire of tribal politics. An array of experts from New Delhi to Paris offers their views in this section.
Beware of Back‐Door Protectionism
Authors: STRAUSS‐KAHN DOMINIQUE
Published: April 2009

As the global financial crisis emanating from the United States shuts down world markets, can globalization survive? Will the resurgent intrusion of the state—and thus politics—into the market lead to protectionism and collapse, as was the case in the early 20th century? Or will the new interconnectivity of climate change and mutual economic dependence—especially between China and the US—deepen global links?

The former mayor of Shanghai, legendary Nobel economist Paul Samuelson and Third Way guru Anthony Giddens ponder those questions in this section.
The Resurrection of Keynes
Authors: SAMUELSON PAUL
Published: April 2009

As the global financial crisis emanating from the United States shuts down world markets, can globalization survive? Will the resurgent intrusion of the state—and thus politics—into the market lead to protectionism and collapse, as was the case in the early 20th century? Or will the new interconnectivity of climate change and mutual economic dependence—especially between China and the US—deepen global links?

The former mayor of Shanghai, legendary Nobel economist Paul Samuelson and Third Way guru Anthony Giddens ponder those questions in this section.
Has the Financial Crisis Killed Consumerism?
Authors: KUNSTLER JAMES HOWARD
Published: April 2009

As the global financial crisis emanating from the United States shuts down world markets, can globalization survive? Will the resurgent intrusion of the state—and thus politics—into the market lead to protectionism and collapse, as was the case in the early 20th century? Or will the new interconnectivity of climate change and mutual economic dependence—especially between China and the US—deepen global links?

The former mayor of Shanghai, legendary Nobel economist Paul Samuelson and Third Way guru Anthony Giddens ponder those questions in this section.
Recession, Climate Change and the Return of Planning
Authors: GIDDENS ANTHONY
Published: April 2009

As the global financial crisis emanating from the United States shuts down world markets, can globalization survive? Will the resurgent intrusion of the state—and thus politics—into the market lead to protectionism and collapse, as was the case in the early 20th century? Or will the new interconnectivity of climate change and mutual economic dependence—especially between China and the US—deepen global links?

The former mayor of Shanghai, legendary Nobel economist Paul Samuelson and Third Way guru Anthony Giddens ponder those questions in this section.
Bring Back the State
Authors: GORBACHEV MIKHAIL
Published: April 2009

As the global financial crisis emanating from the United States shuts down world markets, can globalization survive? Will the resurgent intrusion of the state—and thus politics—into the market lead to protectionism and collapse, as was the case in the early 20th century? Or will the new interconnectivity of climate change and mutual economic dependence—especially between China and the US—deepen global links?

The former mayor of Shanghai, legendary Nobel economist Paul Samuelson and Third Way guru Anthony Giddens ponder those questions in this section.
Visualization of Latent Fingerprint Corrosion on a Discharged Brass Shell Casing
Authors: Bond John W. , Heidel Chuck
Published: April 2009

Abstract:  Latent fingerprint visualization on discharged shell casings can provide good forensic evidence, particularly if the casing is recovered at the scene of a crime where a firearm has been discharged. Unfortunately, visualization of such latent fingerprints when they were deposited prior to discharge of the firearm is problematic as both increased temperature and abrasive friction can inhibit fingerprint visualization with conventional techniques. We present a case study that demonstrates latent fingerprint visualization on a discharged shell casing recovered 14 years ago from the scene of a homicide. Previous cyanoacrylate fuming of the casing had failed to reveal any fingerprints. We use a visualization technique in which a conducting carbon powder adheres preferentially to latent fingerprint corrosion of the casing surface, following the application of a potential of 2.5 kV to the casing. This technique presents opportunities for the review of old cases and for consideration of its use in current cases.
Detection and Identification of Explosive Particles in Fingerprints Using Attenuated Total Reflection‐Fourier Transform Infrared Spectromicroscopy
Authors: Mou Yongyan , Rabalais J. Wayne
Published: April 2009

Abstract:  The application of attenuated total reflection (ATR)‐Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectromicroscopy for detection of explosive particles in fingerprints is described. The combined functions of ATR‐FTIR spectromicroscopy are visual searching of particles in fingerprints and measuring the FTIR spectra of the particles. These functions make it possible to directly identify whether a suspect has handled explosives from the fingerprints alone. Particles in explosive contaminated fingerprints are either ingredients of the explosives, finger residues, or other foreign materials. These cannot normally be discriminated by their morphology alone. ATR‐FTIR spectra can provide both particle morphology and composition. Fingerprints analyzed by ATR‐FTIR can be used for further analysis and identification because of its non‐destructive character. Fingerprints contaminated with three different types of explosives, or potential explosives, have been analyzed herein. An infrared spectral library was searched in order to identify the explosive residues. The acquired spectra are compared to those of finger residue alone, in order to differentiate such residue from explosive residue.
Patch testing of patients allergic to Disperse Blue 106 and Disperse Blue 124 with thin‐layer chromatograms and purified dyes
Authors: Ryberg Kristina , Goossens An , Isaksson Marléne , Gruvberger Birgitta , Zimerson Erik , Persson Lena , Bruze Magnus
Published: April 2009

Background:  Former investigations have demonstrated that patch test preparations containing Disperse Blue (DB) 106 and DB 124 are impure.

Objective:  To investigate the significance of impurities in preparations of disperse dyes with regard to contact allergy.

Materials/methods:  21 patients allergic to DB 106 and/or DB 124 were tested with dilution series of commercial and purified DB 106 and DB 124. All patients were additionally tested with thin‐layer chromatography (TLC) strips made from the commercial preparations containing DB 106 and 18 of them also with TLC strips containing DB 124.

Results:  13 of 21 and 12/18 patients tested positively to the strips of DB 106 and DB 124, respectively. Among these patients, 4/13 and 5/12, respectively, did not react to the main spot but reacted to other spots. Dilution series of purified DB 106 and DB 124 were positive in 10 patients each, while 16 and 15 patients, respectively, tested positively to the dilution series of the corresponding commercial disperse dye.

Conclusion:  Approximately 25% of the patients, diagnosed as contact allergic to DB 106 and DB 124, only reacted to impurities in the patch test preparations. This has implications for diagnosis and prevention.
Contact allergy in chronic leg ulcers: results of a multicentre study carried out in 423 patients and proposal for an updated series of patch tests
Authors: Barbaud Annick , Collet Evelyne , Le Coz Christophe J. , Meaume Sylvie , Gillois Pierre
Published: April 2009

Background:  There is a lack of prospective studies investigating contact sensitization in patients with chronic leg ulcers.

Objectives:  To determine the frequency of contact sensitization in patients with chronic leg ulcers using a special series of patch tests and to determine whether the number of sensitizations was correlated with the duration of the chronic leg ulcers.

Patients/methods:  Multicentre study carried out in patients with chronic leg ulcers; patch tests with the European baseline series and with an additional 34 individual allergens or mixes and 3 commercial products.

Results:  Of the 423 patients (301 women, 122 men, mean age 68.5 years) with chronic leg ulcers, 308 (73%) had at least one positive patch test with 3.65 positive patch tests per patient. The main allergens were Myroxylon pereirae (41%), fragrance mix I (26.5%), antiseptics (20%), and corticosteroids (8%). The number of positive tests per patient was not correlated with the cause of ulcer but was increased with the duration of the ulcer with a statistical difference between the group of the <1 year compared with the group >10 years duration.

Conclusions:  From this large prospective multicentre study, polysensitization is frequent in patients with chronic leg ulcers, increasing with the duration of the ulcer. We propose avoidance of topical antiseptics and ointments containing perfumes in patients with chronic leg ulcers and an updated patch test series for investigating these patients.
Ecological and genetic differentiation among the Arctic charr of Lake Aigneau, Northern Québec
Authors: Power M. , Power G. , Reist J. D. , Bajno R.
Published: April 2009

Abstract – Two modal size groups of sexually mature Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus) differing in shape and found at different depths in Lake Aigneau in the Canadian sub‐Arctic are described and tested for genetic and ecological differentiation. Forms consisted of a small littoral resident, mean size 21.7 cm, and a large profundal resident, mean size 53.9 cm. Mitochondrial DNA analysis indicated that seven of eight haplotypes were diagnostic for either the littoral or profundal fish, with 66.6% of the variation being found within form groupings. Pairwise tests of microsatellite data indicated significant differences in nine of 12 loci and a significant difference between the forms across all tested loci. Molecular variation was partitioned to 84.1% within and 15.9% between forms and suggestive of either restricted interbreeding over time or different allopatric origins. Stable isotope signatures were also significantly different, with the profundal fish having higher δ13C and δ15N values than the littoral fish. Overlap and separation, respectively, in the range of form δ13C and δ15N signatures indicated that carbon was obtained from similar sources, but that forms fed at different trophic levels. Littoral fish relied on aquatic insects, predominantly chironomids. Profundal fish were largely piscivorous, including cannibalism. Predominantly empty stomachs and low per cent nitrogen muscle‐tissue composition among profundal fish further indicated that the feeding activity was limited to the winter when ice‐cover increases the density of available prey at depth. Results provide evidence of significant differences between the modal groups, with origins in both genetics and ecology.
The relationship between body mass and relative investment in testes mass in amniotes and other vertebrates
Authors: MacLeod Colin D. , MacLeod R. C.
Published: April 2009

In terrestrial placental mammals, there is a well‐known negative allometric relationship between body mass and relative investment in testes mass. Such a negative relationship means that males of relatively monogamous small species invest proportionately more in their reproductive tissues than males of more polyandrous larger species. The selective pressure responsible for this relationship remains unclear and is it not known if this is a general allometric relationship that is similar across all vertebrate lineages. To investigate this, we conducted the first comparison of relationships between body mass and testes mass (using percentage testes mass as the dependent variable) across a variety of vertebrate groups. In all amniote lineages examined, the allometric relationship between body mass and testes mass was relatively strong and negative. We show, for the first time, that reptiles, birds and terrestrial placental mammals followed the same allometric relationship and, contrary to previous expectations, this relationship is sigmoidal rather than linear. Within this data set, there was no significant difference between this general amniote relationship and any of the 13 orders of reptiles, birds and terrestrial placental mammals examined. As a result, we propose that a sigmoidal relationship should be considered the default assumption for the form of the body mass – testes mass relationship within the amniote lineage. However, we also identify significant differences within some additional mammal groups (marsupials, bats and cetaceans). In each of these cases, only some sub‐groupings differed significantly from the general amniote relationship. In contrast to the amniotes, the relationship is relatively weak and positive in teleost fish and frogs suggesting that a negative allometric relationship is not universal in vertebrates. We explore whether variation in the body mass – testes mass relationships can be linked to sperm competition or a variety of ecological characteristics, either for amniotes in particular or vertebrates in general.
Do pollen carryover and pollinator constancy mitigate effects of competition for pollination?
Authors: Montgomery Benjamin R.
Published: April 2009

Pollinator constancy and pollen carryover are both thought to mitigate competitive effects that result when shared pollinators cause loss of pollen to heterospecific flowers. I present analytical and simulation models to investigate how pollinator constancy and pollen carryover interact with each other and with the relationship between pollen receipt and seed set to determine pollination success in competitive environments. With inconstant pollinators, increased pollen carryover reduces variance in pollen receipt without affecting average pollen receipt. Consequently, for flowers requiring at least a threshold quantity of pollen for success, rare flowers with inconstant pollinators benefit from reduced carryover, especially for high pollen receipt thresholds, whereas common flowers benefit from increased carryover, especially for low receipt thresholds. Pollinator constancy is predicted to increase pollen receipt, especially if pollen carryover rates are low. As a result, increased pollinator constancy reduces the range of pollen receipt thresholds for which carryover is beneficial. Similarly, for flowers whose pollination success is a convex function of pollen receipt, carryover is expected to increase fecundity if pollinators are inconstant, but with even a low degree of pollinator constancy, carryover reduces fecundity. These results predict that rare plants with many ovules per flower benefit from dispersing aggregations of pollen, especially if their pollinators exhibit constancy, whereas plants with inconstant pollinators and low thresholds of pollen receipt benefit from pollen grains dispersing individually to increase the number of flowers reached by the pollen.
Implications of nest‐site limitation on density‐dependent nest predation at variable spatial scales in a cavity‐nesting bird
Authors: Banda Eva , Blanco Guillermo
Published: April 2009

Nest‐site limitation may have different implications in the spatial distribution of breeding pairs depending on the availability of suitable habitat and the types of nest‐sites. Distribution of cavities suitable as nest sites may allow circumstantial aggregation or active choice of colonial nesting, which may have different implications on breeding performance through effects on breeding density, with variable costs and benefits depending on the consequences of intraspecific competition, social interactions and predation. We evaluated the effects of breeding density derived from nesting site limitation on breeding performance and predation at different spatial scales and considering multiple social, population and environmental limiting factors in the red‐billed chough Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax. The results indicate that variable breeding density may arise within the population depending on the availability and spatial distribution of nest‐sites. Nest‐site availability and distribution may also determine social breeding systems (isolated or aggregated) at variable densities, thus resembling differences found at different spatially distant populations under contrasting environmental conditions. Breeding performance was related to density‐dependent processes of population regulation, especially density‐dependent nest predation due to predator attraction to nest clusters. Results also indicate that predation pressure depend on density patterns at large scales. This suggest that predation may have important consequences on population dynamics of spatially structured populations depending on the strength of this kind of density dependence, which in turn may depend on habitat features affecting the prey but also the spatially variable guild of predators. Because habitat and nesting site availability may vary spatially depending on multiple human influences, understanding the strength and form in which breeding density and nest predation at different spatial scales may influence the size and persistence of populations can help to manage them more adequately.
Increased early growth rates decrease longevities of conifers in subalpine forests
Authors: Bigler Christof , Veblen Thomas T.
Published: April 2009

For trees, fast growth rates and large size seem to be a fitness benefit because of increased competitiveness, attainment of reproductive size earlier, reduction of generation times, and increased short‐term survival chances. However, fast growth rates and large size entail reduced investment in defenses, lower wood density and mechanical strength, increased hydraulic resistance as well as problems with down‐regulation of growth during periods of stress, all of which may decrease tree longevity. In this study, we investigated the relationship between longevity and growth rates of trees and quantified effects of spatial environmental variation (elevation, slope steepness, aspect, soil depth) on tree longevity. Radial growth rates and longevities were determined from tree‐ring samples of 161 dead trees from three conifer species in subalpine forests of the Colorado Rocky Mountains (Abies lasiocarpa, Picea engelmannii) and the Swiss Alps (Picea abies). For all three species, we found an apparent tradeoff between growth rate to the age of 50 years and longevity (i.e. fast early growth is associated with decreased longevity). This association was particularly pronounced for larger P. engelmannii and P. abies, which attained canopy size, however, there were also significant effects for smaller P. engelmannii and P. abies. For the more shade‐tolerant A. lasiocarpa, tree size did not have any effect. Among the abiotic variables tested only northerly aspect significantly favored longevity of A. lasiocarpa and P. engelmannii. Trees growing on south‐facing aspects probably experience greater water deficits leading to premature tree death, and/or shorter life spans may reflect shorter fire intervals on these more xeric aspects. Empirical evidence from other studies has shown that global warming affects growth rates of trees over large spatial and temporal scales. For moist‐cool subalpine forests, we hypothesize that the higher growth rates associated with global warming may in turn result in reduced tree longevity and more rapid turnover rates.
A retrospective review of 20% vs. 10% incremental narrowband UVB regimens to treat psoriasis in skin phototypes III–V Koreans
Authors: Kwon In‐Ho , Woo Seung‐Man , Choi Jung‐Won , Youn Jai‐Il
Published: April 2009

Background: The optimal incremental dose regimen of narrowband UVB (NBUVB) phototherapy that will provide maximal efficacy and safety has not been determined for patients with brown skin and psoriasis.

Objective: To compare 20% and 10% incremental dose regimens of NBUVB phototherapy with respect to efficacy and safety in Korean patients with brown skin and psoriasis whose Fitzpatrick skin phototypes (SPT) are III–V.

Method: A retrospective study was designed to compare the 20% and 10% incremental dose groups with respect to the number of sessions, duration of treatment, maximum dose, cumulative dose until response, and adverse effects.

Results: The mean number of sessions was significantly lower, the duration of treatment was significantly shorter, and the maximum dose was significantly higher in the 20% incremental dose group. The cumulative dose was not significantly different between the two groups, and there was no statistically significant difference between the groups with respect to the percentage of total adverse effects.

Conclusion: Use of a 20% incremental dose regimen could be advantageous over a 10% incremental dose regimen in patients with brown skin and psoriasis because of a faster treatment response and higher efficacy without a significant increase in the risk of adverse effects.
Low‐dose UVA1 phototherapy for proximal and acral scleroderma in systemic sclerosis
Authors: Rose Rebecca F. , Turner David , Goodfield Mark J. D. , Goulden Victoria
Published: April 2009

Previous studies report the benefit of UVA1 phototherapy in treating acrosclerosis in patients with systemic sclerosis. We carried out a retrospective study to examine the effectiveness of UVA1 phototherapy in scleroderma affecting acral and proximal sites in patients with this disease. Patients with systemic sclerosis (diffuse type, n=5; limited type, n=3) underwent low‐dose UVA1 radiation (30–40 J/cm2) thrice weekly. In all patients skin lesions improved, demonstrated by a fall in the modified Rodnan skin score ranging from 8 to 18 points in diffuse systemic sclerosis and 6 to 10 points in limited disease. This study would suggest that UVA1 phototherapy is effective for scleroderma affecting proximal and acral sites in patients with systemic sclerosis.
Patterns of repigmentation in two cases of hypopigmented type of vitiligo
Authors: Anbar Tag S. , El‐Sawy Ashraf E. , Attia Sameh K. , Moftah Noha H. , El‐Tonsy Mohamed H.
Published: April 2009

It has been observed that depigmentation in vitiligo passes through two stages; patches of light brown hypopigmentation which gradually changes into milky white patches. In this work, we studied two cases of hypopigmented vitiligo regarding the melanocytes and keratinocytes' changes before and after 7 months of psoralen plus ultraviolet A (PUVA) therapy. Skin biopsies were taken from the vitiliginous lesions before and after 7 months of PUVA therapy and were examined using haematoxylin and eosin and Masson Fontana stains, l‐3,4‐dihydroxyphenylalanine reaction, immuno‐histochemical stains and ultrastructural examination. In the pretreated patients, the melanocytes present were inactive and degenerative changes were detected in both melanocytes and keratinocytes. After PUVA therapy, obvious histopathological improvement was detected. Clinically, the initial response to PUVA therapy was increased hypopigmentation indicating that degenerated cells in the vitiliginous patches might have continued the process of degeneration and did not recover. Meanwhile, the perifollicular and marginal pigmentation suggested that pigmentation occurred from those areas and not from activation of already degenerated melanocytes.
Delayed ultraviolet erythema not suppressed by oral prednisolone: a randomized crossover study
Authors: Muller F. M. , Dawe R. S. , Murdoch R. D. , McHugh S. M. , Marshall R. P. , Sousa A. , Sanderson B. , Ferguson J.
Published: April 2009

Background: The anti‐inflammatory potency of topical dermatological corticosteroids in suppressing ultraviolet (UV) erythema is routinely measured. No such model exists to assess the potency of systemically administered steroids.

Objective: To determine whether or not suppression of delayed UV erythema by a systemic corticosteroid could provide a useful model for assessing the anti‐inflammatory potency of systemic corticosteroids.

Methods: We conducted a randomized, placebo‐controlled, patient and assessor blinded, crossover study of oral prednisolone effects on the delayed UV‐induced erythemal response in normal subjects. Six healthy volunteers were phototested with a xenon arc monochromator and then dosed with 30 mg of oral prednisolone or matching placebo daily for 4 days. Repeat phototesting was performed on the 4th day of dosing. The minimal erythema dose (MED) was assessed immediately after test UV doses were administered and 24 h later. After a 2‐week washout period, the dosing and testing were repeated in a crossover fashion.

Results: A suppression index (SI) [1/(baseline MED value divided by on prednisolone/placebo value)] allowed comparison of the degree of suppression on and off prednisolone. Oral prednisolone did not significantly suppress the threshold UV erythema response (MED). We may have missed small effects in this study and possibly a larger dose or a longer duration of corticosteroid would have had an effect. Possibly, assessment of corticosteroid potency in suppressing established UV erythema rather than on the development of threshold erythema would have yielded different results.

Conclusion: The threshold UV erythema suppression model assessed in this study could not distinguish between oral prednisolone and placebo. This UV‐erythema suppression test system is not promising as a model to test the anti‐inflammatory potency of systemic steroids.
Report of two angiokeratoma of Fordyce cases treated with a 1064 nm long‐pulsed Nd:YAG laser
Authors: Civaş Ekrem , Koç Erol , Aksoy Berna , Aksoy Hasan Mete
Published: April 2009

Various laser treatment modalities for angiokeratomas have been reported in the literature. A 60‐year‐old male patient presented for the treatment of multiple angiokeratomas of the scrotum and a 56‐year‐old female patient presented for the treatment of vulvar angiokeratomas. A 1064 nm long‐pulsed Nd:YAG laser was used to treat the patients' lesions. The patients received two laser treatment sessions at an interval of 2 months. Nd:YAG laser treatment yielded successful results in the treatment of our patients' scrotal and vulvar angiokeratomas following two application sessions. We suggest that a long‐pulsed Nd:YAG laser is a safe and effective method for the treatment of angiokeratoma of Fordyce.
Reappraising the phototoxicity of tretinoin: a report of four controlled clinical trials
Authors: Slade Herbert B. , Shroot Braham , Feldman Steven R. , Cargill D. Innes , Stanfield Joe
Published: April 2009

Background: Retinoids are photoreactive molecules found in skin and retinal tissue. The use of retinoids in pharmacologic doses, applied topically, raises the potential of phototoxicities. Recent review articles and current US drug labeling indicate that tretinoin is a phototoxin. In developing a new formulation of topical all‐trans‐retinoic acid (tretinoin), formal testing of dermal photoreactions was therefore undertaken.

Methods: Four prospective, randomized, and controlled trials were carried out in healthy volunteers at two independent research facilities. Two trials examined phototoxicity following 24 h of drug exposure under occlusion (combined n=51), and two examined photoallergenicity following a 3‐week, six dose induction phase (combined n=72) followed by challenge.

Results: No phototoxic or photoallergic reactions occurred with tretinoin 0.05% in a new gel formulation.

Conclusion: The findings in these studies are consistent with previous studies of tretinoin in various formulations, and support the conclusion that tretinoin appears to be neither phototoxic nor photoallergenic in vivo.
The Incidence of Invasive Breast Cancer Among Women Prescribed Testosterone for Low Libido
Authors: Davis Susan R. , Wolfe Rory , Farrugia Helen , Ferdinand Angeline , Bell Robin J.
Published: April 2009

Introduction

Although the efficacy of testosterone for the treatment of hypoactive sexual desire disorder is well established, the effect of testosterone therapy on breast cancer risk remains uncertain.

Aim

The incidence of invasive breast cancer among past and current testosterone users.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of 631 women ever treated with testosterone between January 1989 and December 2007 in a clinical endocrinology practice.

Main Outcome Measure

The incidence of invasive breast cancer since first exposure, and the standardized incidence rate ratio (IRR) calculated using Australian age-specific incidence rates for 2005.

Results

The mean age of the women at first exposure to testosterone therapy was 49.1 ± 8.2 years, median treatment duration, 1.3 years, and mean follow-up of 6.7 ± 4.6 years, providing 4,015 woman-years of follow-up. Twelve cases of invasive breast cancer occurred among 599 women breast cancer-free before treatment, giving an age adjusted IRR of 1.35 (95% confidence interval 0.76–2.38). There was no evidence of an independent effect of duration of exposure on breast cancer risk.

Conclusion

In this study, testosterone use was not associated with a significant increase in breast cancer risk.