bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cavernous sinus thrombosis and meningitis from community‐acquired methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus infection
Authors: Munckhof W. J. , Krishnan A. , Kruger P. , Looke D.
Published: March 2008

Septic cavernous sinus thrombosis is an uncommon clinical syndrome with a high morbidity and mortality. The commonest bacterial pathogen is Staphylococcus aureus. We describe the study of a patient with cavernous sinus thrombosis and meningitis caused by community‐acquired methicillin‐resistant S. aureus (CA‐MRSA) infection. The isolate was genotyped as the ST93 (Queensland) clone of CA‐MRSA and carried the Panton‐Valentine leucocidin genes. Cure was obtained following prolonged antimicrobial therapy with vancomycin, rifampicin, cotrimoxazole and linezolid. Given the high morbidity and mortality of cavernous sinus thrombosis and the worldwide recent emergence of CA‐MRSA, clinicians treating patients with this infection should consider early empirical coverage for CA‐MRSA with an antimicrobial agent, such as vancomycin or linezolid, particularly in the presence of suspected facial staphylococcal skin infections. If vancomycin is used, we emphasize that high doses may be required to achieve even low levels in the cerebrospinal fluid.
Damage mechanisms in natural (NR) and synthetic rubber (SBR): nucleation, growth and instability of the cavitation*
Authors: BAYRAKTAR E. , ISAC N. , BESSRI K. , BATHIAS C.
Published: March 2008

Elastomeric matrix composites (EMCs) subjected to static and fluctuating loads basically fail due to the nucleation and growth of defects. Also, high hydrostatic pressure can influence the mechanical behaviour of EMCs. The change in behaviour of EMCs due to the nucleation of cavitations under hydrostatic pressure is studied here to understand the mechanics underlying the damage mechanism. Two types of materials for pancake specimens are used in this study; natural rubber (NR) vulcanized and reinforced by carbon black and synthetic rubber (styrene‐butadiene‐rubber, SBR). In situ observations of uniaxial tension and torsion tests are also presented by using X‐ray computed tomography (CT) (medical scanner) and the results are compared with those from scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
Addition of fornix transection to frontal‐temporal disconnection increases the impairment in object‐in‐place memory in macaque monkeys
Authors: Wilson C. R. E. , Baxter M. G. , Easton A. , Gaffan D.
Published: March 2008

Both frontal‐inferotemporal disconnection and fornix transection (Fx) in the monkey impair object‐in‐place scene learning, a model of human episodic memory. If the contribution of the fornix to scene learning is via interaction with or modulation of frontal‐temporal interaction − that is, if they form a unitary system − then Fx should have no further effect when added to frontal‐temporal disconnection. However, if the contribution of the fornix is to some extent distinct, then fornix lesions may produce an additional deficit in scene learning beyond that caused by frontal‐temporal disconnection. To distinguish between these possibilities, we trained three male rhesus monkeys on the object‐in‐place scene‐learning task. We tested their learning on the task following frontal‐temporal disconnection, achieved by crossed unilateral aspiration of the frontal cortex in one hemisphere and the inferotemporal cortex in the other, and again following the addition of Fx. The monkeys were significantly impaired in scene learning following frontal‐temporal disconnection, and furthermore showed a significant increase in this impairment following the addition of Fx, from 32.8% error to 40.5% error (chance = 50%). The increased impairment following the addition of Fx provides evidence that the fornix and frontal‐inferotemporal interaction make distinct contributions to episodic memory.
Evidence for a novel functional role of cannabinoid CB2 receptors in the thalamus of neuropathic rats
Authors: Jhaveri M. D. , Elmes S. J. R. , Richardson D. , Barrett D. A. , Kendall D. A. , Mason R. , Chapman V.
Published: March 2008

Cannabinoid CB1 receptors have analgesic effects in models of neuropathic pain, but can also produce psychoactive side‐effects. A supraspinal location of CB2 receptors has recently been described. CB2 agonists are also antinociceptive, although the functional role of supraspinal CB2 receptors in the control of nociception is unknown. Herein, we provide evidence that CB2 receptors in the thalamus play a functional role in the modulation of responses of neurons in the ventral posterior nucleus (VPL) of the thalamus in neuropathic, but not sham‐operated, rats. Spontaneous and mechanically evoked activity of VPL neurons was recorded with a multichannel electrode array in anaesthetized spinal nerve‐ligated (SNL) rats and compared to sham‐operated rats. Intra‐VPL administration of the CB2 agonist JWH‐133 (30 ng in 500 nL) significantly reduced spontaneous (P < 0.05), non‐noxious (P < 0.001) and noxious (P < 0.01) mechanically evoked responses of VPL neurons in SNL rats, but not in sham‐operated rats. Inhibitory effects of JWH‐133 on spontaneous (P < 0.01) and noxious‐evoked (P < 0.001) responses of neurons were blocked by the CB2 antagonist SR144528. Local administration of SR144528 alone did not alter spontaneous or evoked responses of VPL neurons, but increased burst activity of VPL neurons in SNL rats. There were, however, no differences in levels of the endocannabinoids anandamide and 2AG in the thalamus of SNL and sham‐operated rats. These data suggest that supraspinal CB2 receptors in the thalamus may contribute to the modulation of neuropathic pain responses.
Architecture of Deinococcus geothermalis biofilms on glass and steel: a lectin study
Authors: Peltola Minna , Neu Thomas R. , Raulio Mari , Kolari Marko , Salkinoja‐Salonen Mirja S.
Published: March 2008

Deinococcus geothermalis is resistant to chemical and physical stressors and forms tenuous biofilms in paper industry. The architecture of its biofilms growing on glass and on stainless acid proof steel was studied with confocal laser scanning microscopy and fluorescent lectins and nanobeads as in situ probes. Hydrophobic nanobeads adhered to the biofilms but did not penetrate to biofilm interior. In contrast, the biofilms were readily permeable towards many different lectins. A skeletal network of glycoconjugates, reactive with Dolichos biflorus and Maclura pomifera lectins, was prominent in the space inside the biofilm colony core but absent on the exterior. Cells in the core space of the biofilm were interconnected by a network of adhesion structures, reactive with Amaranthus caudatus lectin but with none of the 65 other tested lectins. The glycoconjugates connecting the individual cells to steel reacted with Phaseolus vulgaris lectin whereas those connecting to glass mainly reacted with A. caudatus lectin. Envelopes of all cells in the D. geothermalis biofilm reacted with several other lectins, with many different specificities. We conclude that numerous different glycoconjugates are involved in the adhesion and biofilm formation of D. geothermalis, possibly contributing its unique survival capacity when exposed to dehydration, biocidal chemicals and other extreme conditions.
The Azotobacter vinelandii AlgE mannuronan C‐5‐epimerase family is essential for the in vivo control of alginate monomer composition and for functional cyst formation
Authors: Steigedal Magnus , Sletta Håvard , Moreno Soledad , Mærk Mali , Christensen Bjørn E. , Bjerkan Tonje , Ellingsen Trond Erling , Espìn Guadalupe , Ertesvåg Helga , Valla Svein
Published: March 2008

The industrially widely used polysaccharide alginate is a co‐polymer of β‐d‐mannuronic acid and α‐l‐guluronic acid (G), and the G residues originate from a polymer‐level epimerization process catalysed by mannuronan C‐5‐epimerases. In the genome of the alginate‐producing bacterium Azotobacter vinelandii genes encoding one periplasmic (AlgG) and seven secreted such epimerases (AlgE1–7) have been identified. Here we report the generation of a strain (MS163171) in which all the algE genes were inactivated by deletion (algE1–4 and algE6–7) or interruption (algE5). Shake flask‐grown MS163171 produced a polymer containing less than 2% G (algG still active), while wild‐type alginates contained 25% G. Interestingly, addition of proteases to the MS163171 growth medium resulted in a strong increase in the chain lengths of the alginates produced. MS163171 was found to be unable to form functional cysts, which is a desiccation‐resistant differentiated form developed by A. vinelandii under certain environmental conditions. We also generated mutants carrying interruptions in each separate algE gene, and a strain containing algE5 only. Studies of these mutants indicated that single algE gene inactivations, with the exception of algE3, did not affect the fractional G content much. However, for all strains tested the alginate composition varied somewhat as a response to the growth conditions.
Methanogen community in Zoige wetland of Tibetan plateau and phenotypic characterization of a dominant uncultured methanogen cluster ZC‐I
Authors: Zhang Guishan , Tian Jianqing , Jiang Na , Guo Xiaopeng , Wang Yanfen , Dong Xiuzhu
Published: March 2008

Zoige wetland of Tibetan plateau is characterized by being located at a low latitude (33°56′N, 102°52′E) region and under the annual temperature around 1°C. Previous studies indicated that Zoige wetland was one of the CH4 emission centres in Qinghai‐Tibetan plateau; in this study, the methanogen community in this low‐latitude wetland was analysed based on the homology of 16S rRNA and mcrA genes retrieved from the soil. The results indicated that members of Methanosarcinales and Methanomicrobiales constituted the majority of methanogens, and a novel uncultured methanogen cluster, Zoige cluster I (ZC‐I) affiliated to Methanosarcinales, could be dominant. Using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assay, ZC‐I methanogens were estimated to be 107 cells per gram of soil, accounting for about 30% of the total Archeae. By combining culturable enrichment with qPCR assay, the quantity of ZC‐I methanogens in the methanogenic enrichment with acetate, H2/CO2, methanol or trimethylamine was determined to increase to 108 cells ml−1, but not with formate, which indicated that ZC‐I methanogens could use the four methanogenic substrates. The growth rates at 30°C and 15°C were not pronounced different, implying ZC‐I to be the cold‐adaptive methanogens. The broad substrate spectrum identified the ZC‐I methanogens to be a member of Methanosarcinaceae, and could represent a novel sub‐branch specifically inhabited in cold ecosystems. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) images also visualized ZC‐I methanogens the sarcina‐like aggregate of the spherical cells. The prevalence and flexibility in substrate utilization and growth temperature suggested ZC‐I methanogens to be an important player in the methanogenesis of Zoige wetland.
National UK audit of procedure for prolapsing haemorrhoids on behalf of the Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland
Authors: Knight J. S. , Senapati A. , Lamparelli M. J.
Published: March 2008

Objective  To assess the safety and short term outcomes of the procedure for prolapsing haemorrhoids (PPH), a relatively new procedure for the treatment of symptomatic haemorrhoids.

Method  In 2005, the Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland set up an online electronic database to audit the indications and outcomes for patients undergoing a PPH procedure.

Results  During the audit period, 695 patients were entered onto the database by 61 surgeons (range 1–50 patients per surgeon). The main indications for surgery were bleeding (90.5%) and prolapse (83.9%). Three hundred and ninety‐seven (57.1%) patients had grade III or IV haemorrhoids. PPH was performed under general anaesthetic in 602 (86.6%) cases and a consultant surgeon performed the procedure in 572 (82.3%) cases. The median length of stay was 1 day (range 0–6 days). Two hundred and eighty‐nine (41.6%) procedures were performed as a day case. Immediate complications were recorded in 75 (10.8%) patients, the commonest being bleeding (21) and urinary retention (24). At 6‐week follow‐up, 626 (90.1%) patients were pain free. Five patients required hospital re‐admission for secondary haemorrhage (3), peri‐anal abscess (1) and pain (1). The commonest problems were minor bleeding (48), urgency (22), pain (14), continued prolapse (12) and pruritus (11). Four patients required an open haemorrhoidectomy for persistent symptomatic haemorrhoids.

Conclusion  Procedure for PPH is a safe and effective procedure for symptomatic haemorrhoids with good short‐term outcomes. Long‐term follow‐up is required perhaps through a compulsory national register.
Laparoscopic colonic surgery in Denmark 2004–2007
Authors: Schulze S. , Iversen M. G. , Bendixen A. , Larsen T. S. , Kehlet H.
Published: March 2008

Objective  Laparoscopic colonic surgery was introduced about 15 years ago and has together with the evidence‐based ‘fast‐track’ methodology improved early postoperative outcome. The purpose of this study was to asses the organization and early outcome after laparoscopic colonic surgery in Denmark from 2004 to 2007.

Method  Based upon the National Patient Register, all laparoscopic colonic operations performed in Denmark between January 2004 and December 2006 were analysed regarding number of hospital departments and procedures, hospital stay, readmissions and mortality.

Results  One thousand one hundred and forty‐nine laparoscopic colonic resections without simultaneous stoma formation were performed in the study period. Twenty‐five departments performed the procedures but only four departments performed more than 100 procedures. The median length of primary stay was 4 days (mean 7.7 days). One hundred and twenty‐five (10.9%) patients were re‐admitted within 30 days and total length of stay (primary plus readmissions) was a median of 5 days (mean 8.5 days). Thirty‐day mortality was 2.6% and hospital mortality 3.5%.

Conclusion  This nationwide study has shown an increased implementation of laparoscopic colonic surgery but probably performed in too many low volume departments. Laparoscopic colonic surgery should be monitored and further advances secured by adjustment of perioperative care to fast‐track care.
Natural variability of fisheries and lunar illumination: a hypothesis
Authors: Hernández‐León Santiago
Published: March 2008

Long‐term synchronous trends in small pelagic fisheries catches around the world suggest that fish populations are governed by the same global climate forcings. Recent findings regarding the population dynamics of zooplankton during the lunar cycle in sub‐tropical waters may shed light on the influence of the lunar cycle on fish spawning and mortality. Here I hypothesize that, in the short‐term, observed changes in zooplankton abundance during the lunar cycle promote periods of enhanced feeding by adult fish and lower mortality (and increased growth) in their early planktonic stages. Furthermore, a striking 9‐year periodicity in sardine and anchovy mortality was inferred in four major upwelling areas, coinciding with the long‐term variability in lunar illumination. It is suggested that both short‐ and long‐term changes in lunar illumination should be considered when modelling the effect of climate on the natural variability of fisheries.
‘We the peoples…’: The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
Authors: Oldham Paul , Frank Miriam Anne
Published: March 2008

This article reports on the adoption of the United Nations Declaration on Rights of Indigenous Peoples on the 13th of September 2007 by the United Nations General Assembly. The article examines the final stages of the negotiation of the Declaration and briefly considers the role that anthropology might play in promoting this new human rights instrument.
A filmmaker's journal: An appreciation of Robert Gardner's The impulse to preserve: Reflections of a filmmaker
Authors: LOIZOS PETER
Published: March 2008

Gardner's films have been required viewing for introductory anthropology students, but have been carped at or worse by visual anthropology's thought police. He now offers us a richly illustrated, frank and unapologetic account of his major filming expeditions. The 500 photos are often arresting, the text always writerly. The book is not about how the films were made technically, except to mention frequent camera breakdowns, and ruined film batches. Nor does he start us with the germ of the idea, the background reading, expedition preparations, and there is little about editing. Mostly, the diary entries are about where he was, how it was, how he felt. It's a journal which conveys the emotional difficulty of trying to make memorable films, far from capital cities.
Why isn't Panesar a Pommie bastard?: Multiculturalism and the implications of Cricket Australia's racial abuse policy
Authors: LEE JULIAN C.H.
Published: March 2008

Prior to the start of The Ashes in 2006 in which England and Australia played five five‐day long games of cricket, Cricket Australia, the country's governing body for the sport, announced that it would be cracking down on racism. The words ‘Pom’ and ‘Pommie’, however, were deemed by Cricket Australia to be inoffensive. Unacceptable, nevertheless, was racial abuse directed at Monty Panesar, a Sikh member of the English cricket team. The author analyzes why abuse hurled at white English players is acceptable and abuse hurled at non‐white players unacceptable. He does this by using the work of Ghassan Hage and an episode of the cartoon South Park and briefly examines the implications for multiculturalism as a policy.
Trade and Wages: a Deeper Investigation
Authors: Jones Ronald W. , Ruffin Roy J.
Published: March 2008

A new presentation of the specific factors model shows how labor fares under international trade by considering how the price elasticity of the nominal wage rate responds to the terms of trade as well as factor endowments. The key empirical implication is that under a standard assumption about tastes it is straightforward to decompose the gains to labor into measurable terms of trade effects and production bias effects. This provides the basis for suggested time series studies contrasting the specific factors model with the Heckscher–Ohlin model. We then perform a new theoretical analysis of the specific factors model to compare how labor fares under autarky and free trade.
Immigrant Wage Differentials, Ethnicity and Occupational Segregation
Authors: Elliott Robert J. R. , Lindley Joanne K.
Published: March 2008

We investigate occupational attainment as well as estimating earnings differentials for non-white migrants and non-white natives, including occupational effects. We control for the occupational selection of immigrants and compare across native and immigrant groups. Relative to white natives, we find no evidence of an ethnic pay disadvantage for white and South Asian professional workers. Although occupational segregation and other human capital and socio-economic factors provide a partial explanation for the raw earnings differential, evidence of ethnic-based disadvantage in most occupations persists.
Qualitative Longitudinal Analysis of Symptoms in Patients with Primary and Metastatic Brain Tumours
Authors: Rijmen Frank , Ip Edward H. , Rapp Stephen , Shaw Edward G.
Published: March 2008

Primary and metastatic brain tumour patients are treated with surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Such treatments often result in short- and long-term symptoms that impact cognitive, emotional and physical function. Therefore, understanding the transition of symptom burden over time is important for guiding treatment and follow-up of brain tumour patients with symptom-specific interventions. We describe the use of a hidden Markov model with person-specific random effects for the temporal pattern of symptom burden. Clinically relevant covariates are also incorporated in the analysis through the use of generalized linear models.
Exploration of Associations Between Governance and Economics and Country Level Foot-and-Mouth Disease Status by using Bayesian Model Averaging
Authors: Garabed R. B. , Johnson W. O. , Gill J. , Perez A. M. , Thurmond M. C.
Published: March 2008

Using Bayesian model averaging, we quantify associations of governance and economic health with country level presence of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) and estimate the probability of the presence of FMD in each country from 1997 to 2005. The Bayesian model averaging accounted for countries’ previous FMD status and other possible confounders, as well as uncertainty about the ‘true’ model, and provided accurate predictions (90% specificity and 80% sensitivity). This model represents a novel approach to predicting FMD, and other conditions, on a global scale and in identifying important risk factors that can be applied to global policy and allocation of resources for disease control.
Validation of the Revised Patient Perception of Migraine Questionnaire (PPMQ-R): Measuring Satisfaction with Acute Migraine Treatment in Clinical Trials
Authors: Kimel M , Hsieh R , McCormack J , Burch SP , Revicki DA
Published: March 2008

This study was aimed to evaluate in clinical trial settings the psychometric properties of the revised Patient Perception of Migraine Questionnaire (PPMQR), a satisfaction measure for acute migraine treatment. The PPMQ-R was administered 24 h post dosing in 1304 migraineurs randomized to two identical Phase 3, single-attack trials. Reliability, concurrent and construct validity and known-groups validity were evaluated using Cronbach's α, Pearson correlations and analysis of variance, respectively. PPMQ-R scale and Total scores (Efficacy, Functionality and Ease of use) showed very good internal consistency reliability (α 0.84-0.99). Efficacy, Functionality and Total PPMQ-R scores showed large, inverse relationships with migraine pain severity, number of migraine symptoms and work ability ( r = −0.62 to −0.75; all P < 0.0001). All scales discriminated among migraine pain severity levels (all P < 0.001). The PPMQ-R has sufficient evidence of validity and reliability for measuring patient satisfaction, an important benchmark of quality and effective care.
Family‐Based Association Study of Polymorphisms in the RUNX2 Locus with Hand Bone Length and Hand BMD
Authors: Ermakov S. , Malkin I. , Keter M. , Kobyliansky E. , Livshits G.
Published: March 2008

Osteoporosis is characterized by reduced bone strength. Bone size and bone mineral density (BMD) are major bone strength determinants. Identification of genes affecting the variability of these traits should improve prognosis and management of osteoporosis. This research was aimed to test the hypothesis of association of radiographic hand bone length (BL) and BMD with polymorphisms in the RUNX2 locus.

Four SNPs linked to the two RUNX2 promoters were genotyped in 212 nuclear Caucasian families. These SNPs and four pairwise haplotypes were tested for association with eight BL and BMD traits, adjusted for covariates. We observed significant associations between polymorphisms linked to the RUNX2 P1 promoter and BL mean values for three studied bone groups: all 18 bones, proximal and medial bones (p = 0.0118, 0.0085, and 0.0056, respectively). Mean BMD values for all 18 bones, proximal and medial bones were associated with polymorphisms linked to the RUNX2 P2 promoter (p = 0.0032, 0.0077, 0.0007, respectively). Associations with BL and BMD mean values for medial and proximal bones remained significant even after correction for multiple testing.

This study provides evidence of the association between polymorphisms linked to the two RUNX2 promoters and variability of hand BL and BMD. The results suggest independent roles for the two RUNX2 promoters in the determination of the traits studied.
Implications of Transaction Costs for the Post–Earnings Announcement Drift
Authors: NG JEFFREY , RUSTICUS TJOMME O. , VERDI RODRIGO S.
Published: March 2008

This paper examines the effect of transaction costs on the post–earnings announcement drift (PEAD). Using standard market microstructure features we show that transaction costs constrain the informed trades that are necessary to incorporate earnings information into price. This implies weaker return responses at the time of the earnings announcement and higher subsequent returns drift for firms with higher transaction costs. Consistent with this prediction, we find that earnings response coefficients are lower for firms with higher transaction costs. Using portfolio analyses, we find that the profits of implementing the PEAD trading strategy are significantly reduced by transaction costs. In addition, we show, using a combination of portfolio and regression analyses, that firms with higher transaction costs are the ones that provide the higher abnormal returns for the PEAD strategy. Our results indicate that transaction costs can provide an explanation not only for the persistence but also for the existence of PEAD.
Myasthenia gravis associated with thymic neoplasia in a cat
Authors: Meeking Susan A. , Prittie Jennifer , Barton Linda
Published: March 2008

Objective:To describe acute myasthenia gravis (MG) in the postoperative period following removal of a thymoma in an adult cat.

Case summary:A 6‐year‐old spayed female domestic short haired cat weighing 6.4 kg was referred for workup and treatment of a cranial mediastinal mass. Thoracoscopic biopsies confirmed the diagnosis of thymoma. Median sternotomy was performed and approximately 95% of the mass was surgically excised. Postoperatively the cat became remarkably weak and hypercapneic. A presumptive diagnosis of MG was made following a positive response to edrophonium injection (Tensilon test). An elevated serum acetylcholine receptor antibody level was consistent with a diagnosis of MG. Initial treatment consisted of neostigmine, followed by corticosteroids and pyridostigmine. The cat responded well to therapy.

New or unique information provided:This report describes a rare syndrome of postoperative weakness due to development of MG following incomplete removal of a thymoma. Post‐thymectomy weakness associated with MG has been reported in dogs and is not well described in cats.
Treatment of congenital hydrocephalus in a foal using a ventriculoperitoneal shunt
Authors: Bentz Bradford G. , Moll H. David
Published: March 2008

Objective:The objective of this report is to describe the presentation, diagnostic imaging findings, management, and complications of surgical shunt placement in a foal with congenital hydrocephalus.

Case summary:A 3‐day‐old Quarter Horse colt was diagnosed with hydrocephalus on the basis of clinical signs and computed tomographic scan. A surgical shunt was placed from the right cerebral ventricle to the peritoneum. The foal demonstrated significant improvement in clinical signs until shunt complications occurred.

New or unique information provided:To the authors' knowledge, the placement of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt to manage equine hydrocephalus has not been described. This case report provides a foundation for understanding the techniques and possible complications of surgical shunt placement in hydrocephalic foals.
Rome's Final Conquest: The Barbarians
Authors: Goffart Walter
Published: March 2008

The standard account of Rome's dealing with the barbarians in late antiquity describes dynamically expanding Germans and an Empire succumbing beneath their pressure. Offered here is an alternative scenario. Its starting point is that the barbarians and Rome, instead of being in constant conflict with each other, occupied a joined space, a single world in which both were entitled to share. What we call the barbarian invasions was primarily a drawing of foreigners into Roman service, a process sponsored, encouraged, and rewarded by Rome. Simultaneously, the Romans energetically upheld their supremacy. Many barbarian peoples were suppressed and vanished; the survivors were persuaded and learned to shoulder Roman tasks. Rome was never discredited or repudiated. The future endorsed and carried forward what the Empire stood for in religion, law, administration, literacy, and language.
Comorbidity of Migraine and Psychiatric Disorders—A National Population‐Based Study
Authors: Jette Nathalie , Patten Scott , Williams Jeanne , Becker Werner , Wiebe Samuel
Published: March 2008

Background.— Migraine is common, with an estimated lifetime prevalence of 7‐17%. Population‐based studies have reported an association between various psychiatric conditions and migraine. This is a population‐based study exploring the association between migraine and psychiatric disorders in a large cohort and assessing various health‐related outcomes.

Objective.— (1) Determine the prevalence of various psychiatric conditions in association with migraine; (2) describe the patterns of association of these comorbidities with a variety of health‐related outcomes.

Methods.— Data from the 2002 Canadian Community Health Survey were used. This is a national health survey which included administration of the World Mental Health Composite International Diagnostic Interview to a sample of 36,984 subjects. Health‐related outcomes included 2‐week disability, restriction of activities, quality‐of‐life, and mental health care utilization.

Results.— The prevalence of physician‐diagnosed migraine (n = 36,984) was 15.2% for females and 6.1% for males. Migraine was most common in those between ages 25 and 44 years and in those of lower income. Migraine was associated with major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, and social phobia, all occurring more than twice as often in those with migraines compared with those without. Migraine was not associated with drug, alcohol, or substance dependence. The higher prevalence of psychiatric disorders in migraineurs was not related to sociodemographic variables. Psychiatric disorders were less common in those over 65 years, in those who were in a relationship, and in those of higher income whether migraine was present or not. Health‐related outcomes were worst in those with both migraines and a psychiatric disorder and intermediate in those with either condition alone.

Conclusion.— Migraine is associated with major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, and social phobia. Migraine in association with various mental health disorders results in poorer health‐related outcomes compared with migraine or a psychiatric condition alone. Understanding the psychiatric correlates of migraine is important in order to adequately manage this patient population and to guide public health policies regarding health services utilization and health‐care costs.
The Risk of Newly Diagnosed Asthma in Migraineurs With or Without Previous Triptan Prescriptions
Authors: Becker Claudia , Brobert Gunnar P. , Almqvist Per M. , Johansson Saga , Jick Susan S. , Meier Christoph R.
Published: March 2008

Background.— Previous observational studies reported an increased prevalence of asthma in migraine patients. Whether triptans affect the asthma risk has not yet been explored in an epidemiological study.

Objective.— To estimate the risk of newly diagnosed asthma in patients with a general practitioner‐diagnosed migraine in the UK between 1994 and 2001.

Methods.— A population‐based follow‐up study and a nested case‐control analysis were conducted using the General Practice Research Database.

Results.— The study encompassed 51,688 migraineurs and the same number of matched controls. In the follow‐up analysis, the relative risk of developing asthma in migraineurs compared with non‐migraineurs was 1.3 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.1‐1.4). In the nested case‐control analysis, the adjusted odds ratio for asthma in migraineurs overall was 1.17 (95% CI 1.01‐1.35), and for those with a recent triptan prescription 1.12 (95% CI 0.65‐1.94).

Conclusion.— The risk of developing asthma was not materially altered for patients with a general practitioner‐recorded migraine diagnosis, regardless of triptan use.
Nurse‐Based Education: An Office‐Based Comparative Model for Education of Migraine Patients
Authors: Cady Roger , Farmer Kathleen , Beach M.E. , Tarrasch Jeanne
Published: March 2008

Background.— A person with migraine needs to be prepared to make therapeutic decisions on her own. For this reason, patients often need education to understand the nuisances of managing theirmigraines. In this study an educationalCD‐ROM/DVD that described the pathophysiology was utilized by nurses in an office‐based primary care setting for patient education. Outcomes from this encounter were measured.

Objectives.— (1) Identify educational information that assisted migraine patients feel empowered to more effectively manage migraine; (2) encourage patients to intervene during the mild headache phase of the migraine; (3) measure education related changes in patient satisfaction and confidence regarding management of migraine; (4) measure changes in nurse satisfaction and confidence in educating migraine patients; (5) compare the effectiveness of 3 methods of delivery of nurse‐based migraine education.

Methods.— One hundred and eighty migraineurs at 21 primary care practices were divided into 4 groups: group A watched the CD‐ROM/DVD in the office with a nurse available to answer questions; group B was given the CD‐ROM/DVD by a nurse knowledgeable of the content; group C received the educational CD‐ROM/DVD from a nurse without comment; group D received no educational material. The 10 nurses in groups A and B participated in a 45‐minute teleconference that reviewed the information on the CD‐ROM/DVD. Patients and nurses answered a pre‐ and post‐study migraine questionnaire. Patients filled in a treatment diary online within 24 hours of treating a migraine. Nurses completed a satisfaction questionnaire.

Results.— Of the 17 educational points tested on the pre‐test, 75% of patients and nurses already knew about 1/3 of the information. There was significant improvement noted for both patients and nurses on the post‐test in groups A, B, and C but not in group D. The percentage of correct responses by patients and nurses was directly and statistically significantly correlated with the involvement of the nurse in the educational effort. As a result of the education, patients felt more confident in their ability to manage and treat migraine. Likewise, nurses gained increased confidence in teaching patients about migraine. Patients did not intervene with acute therapy during the mild headache phase. Overall, 94% of the nurses were very satisfied or satisfied with the format and information provided.

Conclusions.— All but objective 2 were met for groups A, B, and C compared to control group D. Patients readily accepted nurse‐directed education and assimilated information that increased their confidence to manage migraine. This emphasizes the importance of training nurses about materials used to educate patients.
Post‐Traumatic Stress Disorder in Episodic and Chronic Migraine
Authors: Peterlin B. Lee , Tietjen Gretchen , Meng Sarah , Lidicker Jeffrey , Bigal Marcelo
Published: March 2008

Objective.—To assess and contrast the relative frequency of self‐reported post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in patients with episodic migraine and chronic/ transformed migraine.

Background.—Several risk factors have been identified as risk factors for chronification of headache disorders. Childhood abuse has been suggested as a risk factor for chronic pain in adulthood. In addition depression, as well as several other psychiatric disorders, are co‐morbid with migraine. Recent data suggest that PTSD may be more common in headache sufferers than in the general population.

Methods.—This was a prospective, pilot study conducted at a headache center. Adult subjects with episodic, chronic, or transformed migraine were included. Demographic information, depression history, body mass index (BMI), and headache characteristics were obtained. PTSD was assessed using the life events checklist (LEC) and the PTSD checklist, civilian version (PCL‐C). We contrasted the data from episodicmigraineurs and chronic/transformed migraine participants (CM) and conducted multivariate analyses, adjusting for covariates.

Results.—Of the 60 participants included, 91.7% were female with a mean age of 41.4 ± 12.5 years old. EM was diagnosed in 53.3% and CM in 46.7%. The mean BMI was not significantly different between groups. In contrast, the relative frequency of depression was significantly greater in subjects with CM (55.2%) than EM (21.9%,P = .016). There was no significant difference in the percentage of participants reporting at least 1 significant traumatic life event (LE) or in the mean number of traumatic LEs between EM and CM participants. However, the relative frequency of PTSD reported on the PCL in CM (42.9%) was significantly greater as compared to EM (9.4%,P = .0059. After adjusting for depression and other potential confounders, the difference remained significantP = .023).

Conclusion.—PTSD is more common in CM than in episodic migraineurs. This suggests that PTSD may be a risk factor for headache chronification, pending longitudinal studies to test this hypothesis.
Vertebral Artery Dissection Onset Mimics Migraine With Aura in a Graphic Designer
Authors: Morelli Nicola , Mancuso Michelangelo , Gori Sara , Maluccio Maria Rosaria , Cafforio Gianfranco , Chiti Alberto , Orlandi Giovanni , Ceretti Enrico , Tartaglione Antonio , Murri Luigi
Published: March 2008

Headache is the most common symptom in patients with cervical artery dissection. This symptom, however, rarely occurs in isolation, and more commonly is associated with other neurological symptoms and signs. Visual symptoms associated with vertebral artery dissection (VD) have also been observed, but do not typically mimic the migraine aura. Here, we report a young patient who presented VD, embolic ischemic lesions, and visual symptoms with the features of aura, followed by migraine headache. The suggestion of VD dissection should be kept in mind in those cases complaining of the first attack of headache that mimics migraine with aura. In these cases, an extensive neuroimaging study is advisable.
GROWTH AND MATING OF GONZUM PECTORALE (VOLVOCALES) IN DEFINED MEDIA1
Authors: Stein Janet R.
Published: March 2008

Growth in defined media of 32 populations of Gonium pectorale was studied to learn more about the sexual isolation reported for this species. The 23 populations containing both mating types (+ & ‐) were also studied for the ability to form zygotes in defined media. A preliminary study showed that some populations grew and reproduced sexually in a defined mineral medium, whereas others appeared to require exogenous organic materials for growth and/or zygote formation. The diverse reactions exhibited by the populations indicate physiological races which may explain, in part, the occurrence of sexual isolation.
EXTRACTIVE AND ENZYMATIC ANALYSES FOR LIMITING OR SURPLUS PHOSPHORUS IN ALGAE
Authors: Fitzgerald George P. , Nelson Thomas C.
Published: March 2008

An extractive Procedure for detection of surplusstored phosphorus (luxury consumption) in algae and an enzymatic analysis for conditions of P‐limited growth in algae have been evaluated. A simple 60‐min boiling water extraction of algae known to contain surplus P separates essential P compounds and surplus‐stored P compounds. Surplus P compounds can be measured in the extract as orthophosphate. Extracts of algae limited in their growth by the amount of available P contain little or no orthophosphate. Limitation of algal growth by P supply induces the enzyme alkaline phosphatase. The activity of this enzyme can be measured at pH 9 using p‐nitro‐phenylphosphate as substrate. Algae which were P‐limited and contained no extractable orthophosphate have as much as 25 times more alkaline phosphatase activity than algae with surplus available P.
RELATIONSHIPS AMONG GROWTH RATE, CELLULAR MANGANESE CONCENTRATIONS AND MANGANESE TRANSPORT KINETICS IN ESTUARINE AND OCEANIC SPECIES OF THE DIATOM THALASSIODIRA1
Authors: Sunda William G. , Huntsman Susan A.
Published: March 2008

Growth rate, cellular manganese concentration and mangfanese uptake kinetics were measured as functions of the free manganese ion concentration in the medium for two centric diatoms. Thalassiodira oceanica Hasle, isolated from a lou'‐managanese oceanic enviorment. was capable of better growth at low manganese ion concentrations that T. pseudonana hasle and Heimdal, islated from higt.manganese estuatine waters. This was dur to the oceanic species’ greater avility to accumulate manganese at low free ion concentrations and to grow well at lower cellular manganese concentions. Manganese up take in both species followed classical saturation kinestics, and Vmax but not K, Uaried with the managanese ion concentration in the growth medium. The Ks of managanese uptake for T. Oceanica (10‐795 M) was one‐seventh of that for T. Pseudonana. accouning for T. oceanica's greater ablility to accumulate managaese at low gree ion concentrations.Vmax appeared to be under negative feedback control in both species and six‐ to twelve‐fold variations in this parameter allowed cells to regulate cellular managanese at nearly constant valies at manganese ion concentrations in the vicinity of and somewhat below Kr The range in free manganese ion concenteations over which regukation occurred was diffrent for the two species, and coincided with the in free manganese ion concentrations of the natural habitat of each species.
LIFE HISTORY AND SYSTEMATIC POSITION OF AKKESIPHYCUS LUBRICUS (PHAEOPHYCEAE)1
Authors: Kawai Hiroshi
Published: March 2008

The life history in culture of Akkesiphycus lubricus Yamada et Tanaka, an alga which has been placed in the Coilodesmaceae or the Punclariaceae, Dictysiphonales, was studied. In culture the species alternates between a microscopic filamentous gametophyte and a macroscopic polystichous sporophyte, a pattern common to the Dictyasiphonales and Laminariales. However, it has a unique anisogamous dioecious gametophyte. Fusions between mac‐ro‐gametes and micro‐gametes were not observed, Macro‐gametes or zygotes germinated, mostly developing into sporophytes that formed unilocular sporangia and the rest developed into reduced gametophytic flaments again. The gametophyte matures in 50C short‐day conditions, corresponding to winter in Hokkaido. The sporophyte develops normally and matures only in low‐temperature conditions irrespective of daylength. In regard to iits systematic position, Akkesiphycus lubricus is considered to have a closer relationship with the Laminariales than with the Dietyosiphonales in the following characters; lack of pyrenoids; early stages of parenchyma formation in the sporophyte; direct development of sporophytes from gametes or zygotes without forming a besal system zoospore becomes almost empty after germination by the migration of cell contents into a germ lube; formation of macro‐gametangia by direct conversions of mother cells of mother cells of fertile branches; and micro‐gametangia formed in clusters showing closeresemblance to the antheridia of Pseudochorda nagii (Tokida) Inagaki.
EFFECTS OF DISTURBANCE ON EPIPHYTIC COMMUNITY ARCHITECTURE1
Authors: Luttenton Mark R. , Rada Ronald G.
Published: March 2008

Microdistributional patterns of attached algal communities on Cladophora and glass slides were compared under varying disturbance regimes in the Upper Mississippi River, using light and scanning electron microscopy. Localized physical disturbance, induced by boat traffic and wind‐generated wave action in the main channel, inhibited development of complex attached algal communities and maintained an adnate flora with two‐dimensional architecture. In contrast, communities protected from disturbance developed a more complex, three‐dimensional architecture. A high degree of architectural similarity was observed between communities on Cladophora and glass substrates exposed to similar levels of disturbance. Communities exposed to severe disturbance resembled ones in early stages of colonization and development, whereas less disturbed communities were similar to ones in advanced stages of development. These results demonstrated that turbulence strongly influences the community structure of periphyton on both micro and macro scale levels.
COMPARATIVE ELECTROPHORETIC ANALYSIS OF TWO BINLJCLEATE DINOFLAGELLATES1
Authors: Whitten D. Jean , Hoyhome Barbara A.
Published: March 2008

Although two clonal isolates of two different binucleate dinoflagellates Peridinium balticum (Levander) Letnmermann and Glcnodinium foliaceum Stein share a number of unique biochemical and ultrastructural attributes, comparative analysis for sixteen isozyme systems shows that these isolates are quite distinct from each other. Of the 129 different isozyme bands observed, only 28 were common to both organisms. These results support the contention based on plate tabulations that these two isolates should be placed in different genera and suggest that despite certain general biochemical and ultrastructural similarities that the isolates differ significantly at the biochemical and genetic levels and perhaps exhibit different adaptations between host and endosymbiont.
EFFECTS OF LIGHT ON GROWTH, RuBPCase ACTIVITY AND CHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF ULVA SPECIES (CHLOROPHYTA)1
Authors: Duke CLifford S. , Lapointe Brain E. , Ramus J.
Published: March 2008

The effects of light on growth, RuBPCase activity, and chemical composition of Ulva curvata (Kütz.) De Toni and U.Lactuca L. were examined at a range of temperatures and N‐supply levels. Groeth of Ulva speices becomes more light‐dependent with increasing temperature and N. The effect of light on RuBPcase is N‐dependent, with a positive correlation under N‐sufficient and a negative correlation under N‐limited conditions. Light effects on pigment levels and ratios may be independent of effects on growth rate. These interactions uncouple growth rate from RuBPCase and pigments, and thus from tissue%N. The limits of variability of the growth‐%N relationship can be described by a parabola. Under relative light or temperature‐limitation, %N is negatively, growth increase with increasing %N. Tight coupling of seaweed wrowth and chemical composition may therefor be relatively rare in natural waters where growth can be simultaneously limited by light, temperature, and N.
LIFE HISTORY VARIATIONS IN A PREDOMINANTLY GAMETOPHYTIC POPULATION OV IRIDAEA CORDATA (GIGARTINACEAE, RHODOPHYTA)1
Authors: May Georgiana
Published: March 2008

An Iridaea cordata (Turner) Bory population made up of 83% gametophytes and 17% tetrasporophytes demonstrated little variation in these proportions over three years. These data contrast with an expectation that alternations of generations, as demonstrated by culture studies, should result in equal numbers of isomorphic generations. Analyses of reproductive and demographic attributes of the population were made to better understand the role of alternation of generations in this population.

Growth and mortality rates in the summer could not account for the success of gametophytes. however, size class frequencies demonstrated that tetrasporophytes were smaller individuals. Sporelings recruited into this intertidal region and made up 20% of the spring population numbers. Even with this level of recruitment, gametophyte‐to‐tetrasporophyte ratios did not change. Perennating holdfasts regenerated 80% of the spring number and 90% of the total blade area. Consequently, perennation and differential survival of gametophyte spores or sporelings are proposed as mechanisms maintaining gatnetophyte dominance in this San Juan Island, Washington population.