bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Viewpoint: How Do Calcimimetics Fit Into the Management of Parathyroid Hormone, Calcium, and Phosphate Disturbances in Dialysis Patients?
Authors: Shahapuni Irina , Mansour Janet , Harbouche Laïd , Maouad Bechir , Benyahia Mohamed , Rahmouni Khelifa , Oprisiu Roxana , Bonne Jean‐François , Monge Matthieu , El Esper Najeh , Presne Claire , Moriniere Philippe , Choukroun Gabriel , Fournier Albert
Published: June 2005

As suggested by its American brand name (Sensipar), the calcimimetic cinacalcet sensitizes the parathyroid cells to the extracellular calcium signal, suppressing parathyroid hormone (PTH) release and synthesis and preventing parathyroid cell proliferation. This primary PTH suppression decreases the release of calcium and phosphate from bone without increasing intestinal absorption of calcium and phosphate. Therefore cinacalcet decreases the risk of hypercalcemia and hyperphosphatemia in contrast to 1α‐OH vitamin D derivatives. Compared with calcium‐containing oral phosphate binder (OPB), it increases the risk of hypocalcemia and may decrease the PTH‐mediated phosphaturia in predialysis patients. This justifies its combined use with calcium‐containing OPB in order to prevent hypocalcemia and enhance the hypophosphatemic effect of the latter, while improving PTH suppression. The National Kidney Foundation (NKF) Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (K/DOQI) has recommended restriction of supplemental elemental calcium to 1.5 g/day, a recommendation that we believe should be revised. No pathophysiologic or randomized trial data have yet evidenced the absolute necessity for systematically using 1α‐OH vitamin D derivatives and noncalcium‐containing OPB rather than higher doses of calcium‐containing OPB alone in uremic patients without vitamin D insufficiency. In patients with hyperparathyroidism as severe as in the “Treat to Goal Study,” the Durham study showed that a calcium carbonate dose more than three times the K/DOQI limit could decrease PTH into the recommended range, with the advantage of a lower calcium‐phosphate product compared with the combination of calcitriol and noncalcium OPB. Besides the efficient PTH suppression associated with lower calcium‐phosphate product and a good gastrointestinal tolerance, long‐term data suggest that cinacalcet may decrease the risk of parathyroidectomy and fracture, while high bone turnover lesions are improved. However, no long‐term data on bone mineral density and cardiovascular calcification and complications are yet available. Such studies, along with those comparing cinacalcet and 1α‐OH vitamin D‐based approaches to hyperparathyroidism, are needed.
Is There a Place for Duplex Screening of the Brachial Artery in the Maturation of Arteriovenous Fistulas?
Authors: Lomonte Carlo , Casucci Francesco , Antonelli Maurizio , Giammaria Bernardo , Losurdo Nicola , Marchio Giovanni , Basile Carlo
Published: June 2005

Clinically there are some autogenous arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) that are obviously mature. The real problem in clinical evaluation is in predicting the ultimate outcome of AVFs that are not clearly mature. Thus it would be advantageous to develop objective quantitative criteria to be applied early after vascular access placement in order to evaluate the suitability of AVFs for dialysis. The goal of this study was to document the blood flow rate modifications that the construction and maturation of a radiocephalic wrist AVF produce in the brachial artery by means of duplex Doppler ultrasonography. All incident uremic patients who needed the construction of a radiocephalic wrist AVF in the last 9 months of 2003 were enrolled in the study: 18 patients underwent such an operation. A linear color Doppler ultrasound scan was performed with a 7.0 MHz imaging/5.0 MHz Doppler probe by sampling the brachial artery 2 cm above the elbow: the internal diameter of the artery was measured and its blood flow rate calculated just before AVF construction and 1, 7, 28 days, and at least 6 months after AVF construction. The internal diameter and blood flow rate of the brachial artery were, respectively, 4.3 ± 0.7 mm and 56.1 ± 19.2 ml/min at baseline. A new AVF was constructed in one patient whose brachial artery blood flow rate was 80.0 ml/min at 28 days. When excluding this AVF, the mean brachial artery blood flow rate of the 17 AVFs was 720.4 ± 132.8 ml/min (median 750 ml/min, range 480–890 ml/min) at 28 days and 997.6 ± 259.7 ml/min 258.0 ± 63.0 days after AVF construction. When analyzing the percent increase in brachial artery blood flow rate of the 17 AVFs at the different time points, the most dramatic one occurred at day 1 compared to the baseline (549.0%; mean blood flow rate at day 1, 365.0 ± 129.3 ml/min). Thus the blood flow rate at day 1 represents more than half (50.7%) of the blood flow rate that will be measured at day 28. Then the increase was less steep, with a 20.1% increase between day 7 and day 1 (mean blood flow rate at day 7, 438.4 ± 86.0 ml/min), a 64.3% increase between day 28 and day 7, and a 38.5% increase at 258.0 ± 63.0 days compared to 28 days. The present study was able to document the changes in brachial blood flow rate consequent to a radiocephalic wrist AVF maturation by means of duplex Doppler ultrasonography of the brachial artery. This measure may be helpful in monitoring which AVFs will probably fail. This screening should integrate clinical assessment, thus allowing sound judgment of the level of maturation of an AVF and of its outcome.
Psychometric Properties of the HIT‐6 Among Patients in a Headache‐Specialty Practice
Authors: Kawata Ariane K. , Coeytaux Remy R. , DeVellis Robert F. , Finkel Alan G. , Mann J. Douglas , Kahn Kevin
Published: June 2005

Objective.—To evaluate the performance and score interpretability of the Headache Impact Test (HIT‐6) questionnaire in a headache patient population.

Background.—The HIT‐6 is a standardized questionnaire designed to assess headache‐related disability. Norms have been established using randomly sampled respondents from the general population. This study evaluated the psychometric properties of the HIT‐6 scale among new adult patients who presented for treatment at a university headache‐specialty practice.

Methods.—Participants were 309 new patients who presented for treatment at a headache‐specialty clinic in an academic medical center.

Results.—Respondents ranged in age from 18 to 91 years, with an average age of 41 years (SD = 13 years) and were predominantly female (77%). Over half (57%) experienced chronic daily headache. Scores ranged from 38 to 78, with an average of 65.6 (SD = 7.0) and the majority (87%) had “severe impact” (60 or higher). The scale showed high reliability (α= 0.87) and an exploratory factor analysis showed large loadings from |0.57| to |0.86| and suggested a single disability factor. Scores were moderately negatively correlated with Short Form Health Survey (SF‐36) subscales, ranging from −0.22 for mental health to −0.57 for social functioning. Item response theory analyses showed that half of the items functioned well across the disability continuum, while the remaining items discriminated between low and high levels of headache impact.

Conclusions.—These findings suggest that the HIT‐6 is useful for assessing headache‐related disability among patients who seek headache‐specialty care.
Psychological, Sleep, Lifestyle, and Comorbid Associations With Headache
Authors: Boardman Helen F. , Thomas Elaine , Millson David S. , Croft P. R.
Published: June 2005

Objective.—To investigate the associations of headache occurrence, severity, and frequency with psychological, sleep, and lifestyle characteristics, and comorbid conditions.

Background.—Whilst associations for individual headache types, particularly migraine, have been investigated, possible associations between headache of all types and general health characteristics have not been explored.

Methods.—Cross‐sectional postal survey in an adult general population sample registered at five general practices in North Staffordshire, UK.

Results.—Headache occurrence was associated with anxiety (odds ratio 4.09, 95% confidence interval 3.0, 5.6) and sleep problems (moderate sleep problems OR 3.60, 95% CI 2.5, 5.0), and the strength of the associations increased with higher levels of anxiety and sleep problem. Whilst depression showed an association with headache, this was not seen in respondents with depression in the absence of anxiety. Headache occurrence was also associated with comorbid pain anywhere in the body (OR 2.12, 95% CI 1.7, 2.6), with the strongest associations being for the neck and upper body areas compared with other areas. There was no overall link with alcohol or caffeine consumption. Increasing severity and frequency of headache resulted in stronger associations, and there were strong associations between the occurrence, severity, and frequency of headache, and both sleep problems and psychological distress.

Conclusion.—Poor sleep and anxiety appear to make a substantial contribution to the impact of headache on sufferers' lives in the general population.
Chronic Daily Headache in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Wiendels Natalie J. , Van Der Geest Martine C. M. , Neven, MSc Arie Knuistingh , Ferrari Michel D. , Laan Laura A. E. M.
Published: June 2005

Objective.—To describe the clinical features of children with chronic daily headache (CDH) and examine the usefulness of the International Classification of Headache Disorders‐II.

Background.—Few data are available on chronic daily headache and analgesic overuse in children and adolescents and there are no specific criteria for headache in children.

Methods.—We retrospectively reviewed all charts of 79 children and adolescents (<16 years) with headache on ≥15 days/month presenting to the outpatient clinic of the Department of Neurology of the Leiden University Medical Center between 1994 and 2001. We classified their headaches according to the International Classification of Headache Disorders‐II.

Results.—Fifty‐seven (72%) children had chronic daily headache for more than 6 months, with a duration of more than 4 hours a day in 60% of them. Quality, severity, and location of pain varied. Sixty patients (76%) used analgesics, 10 patients more than one type. Thirteen patients (16%) used analgesics daily. In one‐third of patients, headache led to frequent school absenteeism and sleeping problems. Twenty‐eight (35%) patients could be classified, 17 patients (22%) as chronic tension‐type headache, 5 patients (6%) as chronic migraine, and 6 patients (8%) as probable medication overuse headache. Fifteen patients (19%) did not fit into any category and 36 (46%) could not be classified due to insufficient data.

Conclusions.—Chronic daily headache in children is a serious disorder. A relatively large number of patients overuse medication and it leads to frequent school absenteeism and sleeping problems. It remains difficult to classify their headaches with the new criteria for headache disorders.
One‐Year Incidence, Course, and Outcome Predictors of Frequent Headaches Among Early Adolescents
Authors: Larsson Bo , Sund Anne Mari
Published: June 2005

Objective.—To examine the prevalence rate, course, annual incidence, and predictors of frequent headaches (at least once a week) in a 1‐year longitudinal study of a representative school sample of 2355 adolescents aged 12 to 14 years.

Methods.—Information was gathered by means of questionnaires administered to the subjects at school.

Results.—The overall prevalence estimates of frequent headaches, including those subjects reporting another type of frequent pain, were 8.1% and 8.9% at the two assessment points (T1 and T2), and 3.3% to 4% for frequent headaches without other frequent pain complaints. Both forms of frequent headaches were about three times more common among girls than boys. Persistence of frequent headaches (with possible pain comorbidity) was high, in that more than one‐third of adolescents reporting frequent headaches continued to have such headaches 1 year later. Persistence also increased with age, in particular among 13‐ to 14‐year‐old girls. The overall annual incidence of frequent headaches in the whole sample was 6.5%. While incidence was about twice as high among adolescent girls than boys, there was a steady increase among girls, whereas the rates were stable in boys. The results of multivariate regression analyses showed that frequent headaches at 1‐year follow‐up could be significantly predicted by frequent headaches at first assessment, impairment (reduced leisure time activities), and high depressive symptom scores, in addition to gender (girls had a worse outcome).

Conclusions.—Frequent headaches, among girls in early adolescence in particular, should be carefully evaluated, and treatment offered to those who are impaired in their daily life functioning.
Relaxation Treatment of Adolescent Headache Sufferers: Results From a School‐Based Replication Series
Authors: Larsson Bo , Carlsson Jane , Fichtel Åsa , Melin Lennart
Published: June 2005

Background.—In recent reviews of psychological and drug treatment, relaxation training approaches have been found to be efficacious for children and adolescents suffering from recurrent tension‐type headache (TTH), while biofeedback procedures provide effective help for migraine headache sufferers, primarily treated in tertiary clinics.

Objective.—In a school‐based replication series, the effectiveness and efficiency of relaxation training provided within school settings were examined, in addition to the effects on various headache features and the maintenance of treatment gains at a 6 to 10‐month follow‐up.

Methods.—Over a 20‐year period, 288 adolescents aged 10 to 18 years participated in seven randomized, controlled trials conducted within regular school health service settings. Subjects were included if they had suffered from frequent migraine or TTHs, or from both headache types for at least 1 year. Various formats of standardized relaxation training procedures were contrasted to different attention‐control (ATCO) approaches or self‐monitoring (SM) of headaches in prospective diary recordings.

Results.—The results showed that a therapist‐administered relaxation approach was superior to self‐help or school‐nurse administered relaxation training approaches, ATCO conditions or SM of headaches. Students with TTHs responded positively to any form of relaxation training, whereas those with frequent migraine responded well only to therapist‐administered relaxation. However, school‐nurse administered procedures were found to be the most efficient form of relaxation treatment, in particular for adolescents suffering from TTHs. Total headache activity, the number of headache days and peak headache intensity were significantly reduced after relaxation treatment, in addition to medication usage. Treatment gains were well maintained at the 6 to 10‐month follow‐up.

Conclusion.—Therapist‐assisted relaxation training is an effective treatment for adolescents suffering from frequent TTHs or migraine. However, such treatment administered by school‐nurses administered within school health care settings is an efficient treatment approach for adolescents suffering from the most common form of primary headache, ie, TTHs.
Referred Pain From the Trochlear Region in Tension‐Type Headache: A Myofascial Trigger Point From the Superior Oblique Muscle
Authors: De Las Peñas Cesar Fernandez , Cuadrado Maria Luz , Gerwin Robert D. , Pareja Juan A.
Published: June 2005

Background.—Tension‐type headache (TTH) is a prototypical headache in which myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) can play an important role. To our knowledge, MTrPs in the muscle tissues of the trochlear region, ie, the superior oblique muscle (SOM), have not been previously mentioned, and a referred pain pattern from this region has never been reported.

Objective.—To describe the referred pain from the trochlear area based on the examination of MTrPs in the SOM in patients with episodic and chronic TTH (CTTH).

Design.—A blinded, controlled study.

Methods.—The trochlear region was examined in 15 patients with CTTH, 15 patients with episodic TTH (ETTH), and 15 control subjects. Referred pain elicited by different maneuvers performed during manual palpation, ie, maintained pressure, active muscle contraction, and stretching of the muscle, was assessed with a visual analogue scale. Patients with ETTH were examined on days when they were headache‐free, whereas CTTH patients were examined on days in which headache intensity was less than 4 points on a 10‐cm horizontal visual analogue scale.

Results.—Eighty‐six percent of patients with CTTH and 60% with ETTH had referred pain that originated from MTrPs in the SOM, while only 27% of the controls reported referred pain. This pain was perceived as a deep ache located at the retro‐orbital region, sometimes extending to the supra‐orbital region or the homo‐lateral forehead. Pain intensity was greater in CTTH patients than in ETTH patients or control subjects (P < .001).

Conclusions.—MTrPs in the SOM may evoke a typical referred pain pattern in patients with TTH. The presence of a myofascial disorder in the trochlear region might contribute to the pathogenesis of TTH.
Physical Treatments for Headache: A Structured Review
Authors: Biondi David M.
Published: June 2005

Background.—Primary headache disorders, especially migraine, are commonly accompanied by neck pain or other symptoms. Because of this, physical therapy (PT) and other physical treatments are often prescribed. This review updates and synthesizes published clinical trial evidence, systematic reviews, and case series regarding the efficacy of selected physical modalities in the treatment of primary headache disorders.

Methods.—The National Library of Medicine (MEDLINE), The Cochrane Library, and other sources of information were searched through June 2004 to identify clinical studies, systematic reviews, case series, or other information published in English that assessed the treatment of headache or migraine with chiropractic, osteopathic, PT, or massage interventions.

Results.—PT is more effective than massage therapy or acupuncture for the treatment of TTH and appears to be most beneficial for patients with a high frequency of headache episodes. PT is most effective for the treatment of migraine when combined with other treatments such as thermal biofeedback, relaxation training, and exercise. Chiropractic manipulation demonstrated a trend toward benefit in the treatment of TTH, but evidence is weak. Chiropractic manipulation is probably more effective in the treatment of tension‐type headache (TTH) than it is in the treatment of migraine. Evidence is lacking regarding the efficacy of these treatments in reducing headache frequency, intensity, duration, and disability in many commonly encountered clinical situations. Many of the published case series and controlled studies are of low quality.

Conclusions and Recommendations.—Further studies of improved quality are necessary to more firmly establish the place of physical modalities in the treatment of primary headache disorders. With the exception of high velocity chiropractic manipulation of the neck, the treatments are unlikely to be physically dangerous, although the financial costs and lost treatment opportunity by prescribing potentially ineffective treatment may not be insignificant. In the absence of clear evidence regarding their role in treatment, physicians and patients are advised to make cautious and individualized judgments about the utility of physical treatments for headache management; in most cases, the use of these modalities should complement rather than supplant better‐validated forms of therapy.
Clomiphene Citrate as a New Treatment for SUNCT: Hormonal Manipulation for Hypothalamic‐Influenced Trigeminal Autonomic Cephalalgias
Authors: Rozen Todd D. , Saper Joel R. , Sheftell Fred D. , Dodick David W.
Published: June 2005

We present a patient with treatment refractory short‐lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks with conjunctival injection and tearing (SUNCT) who was found to have low levels of serum testosterone supporting the hypothalamic connection to this trigeminal autonomic cephalalgia. Clomiphene citrate therapy induced a significant elevation of testosterone levels (by its effect on hypothalamic estrogen receptors) and led to a dramatic reduction in SUNCT attacks. Hormonal manipulation may be a treatment strategy for hypothalamic‐influenced trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias.
Water Deprivation: A New Migraine Precipitant
Authors: Blau Joseph N.
Published: June 2005

Fifty migraineurs were asked if insufficient fluid intake could provoke their migraine attacks. Twenty replied “yes,” 7 were doubtfully positive, and 23 said “no.” In addition 14 of 45 migraineurs at a meeting of the British Migraine association (UK) also recognized fluid deprivation as one of their migraine triggers. Thus a total of 34 of 95 migraineurs knew that dehydration could provoke their attacks, a precipitant not recognized by the medical profession. This indicates that we can add fluid deprivation to our list of migraine precipitants. It would be interesting to know the extent to which it applies in other climates. Further research is needed into the mechanism of this precipitant.
Migraine as a Risk Factor for White Matter Lesions, Silent Infarctions, and Ischemic Stroke: The Evidence for a Link
Authors: Kruit Mark C. , Launer Lenore J. , Van Buchem Mark A. , Terwindt Gisela M. , Ferrari Michel D.
Published: June 2005

For decades, migraine has been considered to be an episodic, neurovascular disorder, without long‐term consequences to the brain. Associations between migraine and clinical stroke and migraine and white matter hyperintense lesions have been suggested in numerous studies, but due to various methodological problems no definite conclusion could be drawn from these studies. Recently, data from a population‐based cross‐sectional MRI study in were published. Data from this study established migraine to be a true and independent risk factor for white matter lesions (in female migraine patients) and subclinical posterior circulation territory infarcts. In this review, the methodology and results of previous investigations of a relationship between migraine and clinical ischemic stroke, silent infarction and white matter lesions are reviewed, and integrated in the results from the new MRI study. The conclusion comprises that brain infarction occurs far more frequently than expected in migraine patients, most pronounced in migraine with aura: 8% have subclinical cerebellar infarcts, although most infarcts remain clinically silent. Female migraine patients are at increased risk of deep white matter lesions, independent of the effects of cardiovascular risk factors. The influence of migraine severity (attack frequency) on the risk of both types of lesions suggests a causal relationship between migraine severity and lesion load. Future studies are needed to assess whether these (probably) ischemic lesions have relevant (long‐term) functional correlates.
Migraine as a Risk Factor for White Matter Lesions, Silent Infarctions, and Ischemic Stroke: The Potential Mechanisms and Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Diener H. C. , Kurth T.
Published: June 2005

The high prevalence of migraine among young individuals with stroke as well as dysfunction of cerebral arteries during the migraine attack has led to the hypothesis that migraine may be a risk factor for ischemic stroke. Advances in brain imaging have provided further evidence that migraine may not only be associated with stroke, but also with silent infarctions and with white matter lesions in the brain. In this review, we discuss the current scientific evidence, plausable biological mechanisms, and potential treatment options.
Cytokine gene polymorphism in Iranian patients with chronic myelogenous leukaemia
Authors: Amirzargar A. A. , Bagheri M. , Ghavamzadeh A. , Alimoghadam K. , Khosravi F. , Rezaei N. , Moheydin M. , Ansaripour B. , Moradi B. , Nikbin B.
Published: June 2005

Chronic myelogenous leukaemia (CML) is a disorder of the haematopoietic stem cell that results in malignant expansion of myeloid cells with a cytogenetic abnormality, and translocation between chromosomes 9 and 22, known as the Philadelphia chromosome. It has been hypothesized that genetic factors other than histocompatibility disparity may play a role in predisposition to developing CML. In this regard, T helper types 1 and 2 (Th1 and Th2) cytokines and their gene polymorphism seem to be important. Overall expression and secretion of cytokines are dependent, at least in part, on genetic polymorphism (nucleotide variations) within the promoter region or other regulatory sequences of cytokine genes. The majority of polymorphisms described are single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs). The objective of this study was to analyse the genetic profile of Th1 and Th2 cytokines in 30 Iranian patients with CML and 40 healthy subjects. In the patients and control subjects, the allelic and genotype frequencies were determined for the cytokine genes. All typing were performed with a polymerase chain reaction–sequence‐specific primers (PCR‐SSP) assay. Allele and genotype frequencies were calculated and compared with those of normal controls. The results showed that the most frequent genotypes in our patients were transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β TG/TG, interferon (IFN)‐γ AT, interleukin (IL)‐4 CC at position −590, TT at position −33, and IL‐10 ACC/ACC and ATA/ATA. In contrast, the genotypes TGF‐β CG/CG, IL‐2 TT at position −330, IL‐4 CT at position −590, CT at position −33, and IL‐10 GCC/ACC were seen at much lower frequencies. The results suggest that production of TGF‐β in CML patients is higher and production of IL‐4 and IL‐10 is lower than in normal subjects.
Distribution of the mutated Δ32 allele of the CCR5 gene in a Sicilian population
Authors: Sidoti A. , D’Angelo R. , Rinaldi C. , De Luca G. , Pino F. , Salpietro C. , Giunta D. E. , Saltalamacchia F. , Amato A.
Published: June 2005

The CCR5 gene encodes a cell‐surface chemokine receptor molecule that serves as a co‐receptor for macrophage‐tropic strains of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV‐1). A mutation in this gene may alter the expression or the function of the protein product, thereby altering chemokine binding and/or signalling or HIV‐1 infection of cells that normally express CCR5 protein. Individuals homozygous for a 32‐bp deletion allele of CCR5 (CCR5 Δ32), heritable as a Mendelian trait, are relatively resistant to HIV‐1 infection. The CCR5 Δ32 mutation is present in the Caucasian population at different frequencies. The aim of this study was to investigate the frequency of truncated alleles of the CCR5 Δ32 gene in a Sicilian population, as the interpopulation variation in CCR5 Δ32 frequency may be a significant factor in the prediction of AIDS endemicity in future studies. We examined 901 healthy individuals from several Sicilian provinces. We found a mean (± standard deviation) Δ32 allele frequency (fr) of 0.04 ± 0.012. The highest value was observed in the province of Messina, with a mean Δ32 allele frequency of 0.06 ± 0.024, where we collected samples from a cohort of 114 HIV‐1‐infected individuals. The observed frequency amongst these patients was quite low (fr = 0.03 ± 0.031) compared to the healthy population, although the difference was not statistically significant.
Mitochondrial mutation detection using enhanced multiplex denaturing high‐performance liquid chromatography
Authors: Bayat A. , Walter J. , Lamb H. , Marino M. , Ferguson M. W. J. , Ollier W. E. R.
Published: June 2005

In this study, we investigated the presence of mutations within the mitochondrial genome in 40 Caucasian subjects using an enhanced multiplex denaturing high‐performance liquid chromatography (DHPLC) approach. The enhanced DHPLC approach has increased sensitivity and throughput, and reduced analysis time per individual sample compared to conventional methods. This technique involved amplifying the mitochondrial genome in 18 fragments ranging in size from 300 to 2000 bp using a novel proofreading polymerase (OptimaseTM, Transgenomic Inc., Omaha, NE) with a low misincorporation rate. Fourteen of these fragments underwent subsequent restriction digestion using a combination of five restriction enzymes to enable multiplex DHPLC analysis; the remaining four underwent conventional DHPLC. Using this complete mitochondrial genome‐screening approach, we confirmed a number of previously reported mutations and additionally identified a large number of novel mutations using an enhanced DHPLC technique.
The first report of the human platelet alloantigen 4b allele in a Brazilian
Authors: Toralles‐Pereira C. , De M. C. Pardini M. I. , Deffune E. , Machado P. E. A.
Published: June 2005

The human platelet alloantigen (HPA) 4b allele is rarely observed in Caucasians and the observed incidence in Asians is usually lower than 1.0%. We report the first Brazilian with the allele HPA‐4b, and were able to determined that he inherited it from his father.
H i kinematics in a massive spiral galaxy at z = 0.89
Authors: Koopmans L. V. E. , De Bruyn A. G.
Published: June 2005

We present a kinematic model of the neutral hydrogen in the spiral galaxy of the lens system PKS 1830-211, based on a Multi-Element Radio-Linked Interferometer Network (MERLIN) 1.4-GHz radio map and the integrated and redshifted 21-cm hydrogen absorption-line profile as measured with the Westerbork Synthesis Radio Telescope (WSRT). Degeneracies in the models do not allow a unique determination of the kinematic centre, and forthcoming deeper Hubble Space Telescope observations with the Advanced Camera for Surveys (ACS) are required to break this degeneracy. Even so, we measure the inclination of the hydrogen disc: i = 17°–32°, indicating a close to face-on spiral galaxy. The optical depth increases with radius over the extent of the Einstein ring, suggesting H i depletion towards the lens centre. The latter could be due to star formation or conversion of H i into molecular hydrogen because of a higher metalicity/dust content in the galaxy centre. The neutral hydrogen optical depth gives NH I = 2 × 1021 cm-2 at r = 5.0 h-170 kpc in the disc (Ts = 100 K), comparable to local spiral galaxies.
A deep Chandra observation of the Centaurus cluster: bubbles, filaments and edges
Authors: Fabian A. C. , Sanders J. S. , Taylor G. B. , Allen S. W.
Published: June 2005

X-ray images and gas temperatures taken from a deep ∼200-ks Chandra observation of the Centaurus cluster are presented. Multiple inner bubbles and outer semicircular edges are revealed, together with wispy filaments of soft X-ray emitting gas. The frothy central structure and eastern edge are likely due to the central radio source blowing bubbles in the intracluster gas. The semicircular edges to the surface brightness maps 32 kpc to the east and 17.5 kpc to the west are marked by sharp temperature increases and abundance drops. The edges could be due to sloshing motions of the central potential, or are possibly enhanced by earlier radio activity. The high abundance of the innermost gas (about 2.5 times solar) limits the amount of diffusion and mixing taking place.
The connection between ultraviolet and X-ray outflows in active galactic nuclei: the case of PDS 456
Authors: O'Brien Paul T. , Reeves James N. , Simpson Chris , Ward Martin J.
Published: June 2005

High-velocity outflows from active galactic nuclei are a well-known phenomenon in terms of the broad absorption lines seen in the ultraviolet/optical. More recently, similar, possibly related, outflows have been reported in the X-ray. The most extreme example is seen in the nearby, luminous QSO PDS 456, which displays a massive, high-velocity (50 000 km s−1), high-ionization X-ray outflow of 10 Mࣻ yr−1. Here we present the ultraviolet spectrum of PDS 456 as observed by the Hubble Space Telescope. We find that the ultraviolet spectrum is also extreme, displaying very broad emission lines, with C iv λ1549 blueshifted by 5000 km s−1 and a broad Lyα absorption trough blueshifted by 14 000–24 000 km s−1. No strong, broad high-ionization absorption features are seen. We interpret the combined ultraviolet and X-ray spectrum of PDS 456 as the signature of a decelerating, cooling outflow, which may be driven by radiation and/or magnetic field. This outflow may be the source of some of the broad emission- and absorption-line gas.
Using radio emission to detect isolated and quiescent accreting black holes
Authors: Maccarone Thomas J.
Published: June 2005

We discuss the implications of new relations between the masses, X-ray luminosities and radio luminosities of black holes, as well as the properties of the next generation of radio telescopes, for the goal of finding isolated accreting black holes. Because accreting black holes have radio-to-X-ray flux ratios that increase with decreasing luminosity in Eddington units, and because deep surveys over large fields of view should be possible with planned instrumentation such as LOFAR, radio surveys should be significantly more efficient than X-ray surveys for finding these objects.
From the Tully–Fisher relation to the Fundamental Plane through mergers
Authors: Aceves Héctor , Velázquez Héctor
Published: June 2005

We set up a series of self-consistent N-body simulations to investigate the Fundamental Plane of merger remnants of spiral galaxies. These last ones are obtained from a theoretical Tully–Fisher relation at z = 1, assuming a constant mass-to-light ratio within the Λ cold dark matter cosmogony. Using a Sérsic growth curve and an orthogonal fitting method, we find that the Fundamental Plane of our merger remnants is described by the relation Reασ1.48±0.010I−0.75±0.01e, which is in good agreement with that reported from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey, Reασ1.49±0.050I−0.75±0.01e. However, the R1/4-profile leads to a Fundamental Plane given by Reασ1.79±0.010I−0.60±0.01e. In general, the correlation found in our merger remnants arises from homology breaking (V2ασν0, RgαRηe) in combination with a mass scaling relation between the total and luminous mass, MαMγL. Considering an orthogonal fitting method, it is found that 1.74 ≲ ν ≲ 1.79, 0.21 ≲ η ≲ 0.52 and 0.80 ≲ γ ≲ 0.90 depending on the adopted profile (Sérsic or R1/4).
Accretion of cool stellar winds on to Sgr A*: another puzzle of the Galactic Centre?
Authors: Cuadra Jorge , Nayakshin Sergei , Springel Volker , Di Matteo Tiziana
Published: June 2005

Sgr A* is currently being fed by winds from a cluster of gravitationally bound young mass-losing stars. Using observational constraints on the orbits, mass-loss rates and wind velocities of these stars, we numerically model the distribution of gas in the ∼ 0.1–10 arcsec region around Sgr A*. We find that radiative cooling of recently discovered slow winds leads to the formation of many cool filaments and blobs, and to a thin and rather light accretion disc on a scale of about an arcsecond. The disc, however, does not extend all the way to our inner boundary. Instead, hot X-ray-emitting gas dominates the inner arcsecond. In our simulations, cool streams of gas frequently enter this region on low angular momentum orbits, and are then disrupted and heated up to the ambient hot gas temperature. The accreting gas around Sgr A* is thus two-phase, with a hot component, observable at X-ray wavelengths, and a cool component, which may be responsible for the majority of the time variability of Sgr A* emission on time-scales of 100–1000 yr. We obtain an accretion rate of a few ×10−6 M⊙ yr−1, consistent with Chandra estimates, but variable on time-scales even shorter than 100 yr. These results strongly depend on the chosen stellar orbits and wind parameters. Further observational input is thus key to a better modelling of the Sgr A* wind accretion.
The dark halo of the main lens galaxy in QSO 0957 + 561
Authors: Goicoechea L. J. , Gil-Merino R. , Ullán A.
Published: June 2005

We present an analysis of infrared/optical/ultraviolet spectra of the two images of the first gravitationally lensed quasar Q0957 + 561A,B. The Hubble Space Telescope observations of Q0957 + 561A and Q0957 + 561B are separated in time by the known time delay in this system, so we can directly deduce the flux ratios. These flux ratios of images lead to important information on the dark halo of the main lens galaxy (a giant elliptical at redshift z = 0.36). Our measurements for the continuum are in good agreement with extinction in the elliptical galaxy and a small fraction of mass in collapsed objects (no need for gravitational microlensing). From the continuum and emission-line ratios, we also show evidence in favour of the existence of a network of compact dusty clouds.
Constraints on jet X-ray emission in low/hard-state X-ray binaries
Authors: Maccarone Thomas J.
Published: June 2005

We show that the similarities between the X-ray properties of low-luminosity accreting black holes and accreting neutron stars, combined with the differences in their radio properties, argue that the X-rays from these systems are unlikely to be formed in the relativistic jets. Specifically, the spectra of extreme island-state neutron stars and low/hard-state black holes are known to be quite similar, while the power spectra from these systems are known to show only minor differences beyond what would be expected from scaling the characteristic variability frequencies by the mass of the compact object. The spectral and temporal similarities thus imply a common emission mechanism that has only minor deviations from having all key parameters scaling linearly with the mass of the compact object, while we show that this is inconsistent with the observations that the radio powers of neutron stars are typically about 30 times lower than those of black holes at the same X-ray luminosity. We also show that an abrupt luminosity change would be expected when a system makes a spectral state transition from a radiatively inefficient jet-dominated accretion flow to a thin disc-dominated flow, but that such a change is not seen.
Outliers to the peak energy–isotropic energy relation in gamma-ray bursts
Authors: Nakar Ehud , Piran Tsvi
Published: June 2005

The peak energy–isotropic energy (EpEi) relation is among the most intriguing recent discoveries concerning gamma-ray bursts (GRBs). It can have numerous implications for our understanding of the emission mechanism of the bursts and for the application of GRBs to cosmological studies. However, this relation has been verified only for a small sample of bursts with measured redshifts. We propose here a test of whether a burst with an unknown redshift can potentially satisfy the EpEi relation. Applying this test to a large sample of BATSE bursts, we find that a significant fraction of those bursts cannot satisfy this relation. Our test is sensitive only to dim and hard bursts, and therefore this relation might still hold as an inequality (i.e. there are no intrinsically bright and soft bursts). We conclude that the observed relation seen in the sample of bursts with known redshift might be influenced by observational biases and the inability to locate and to localize well hard and weak bursts that have only a small number of photons. In particular, we point out that the threshold for detection, localization and redshift measurement is essentially higher than the threshold for detection alone. We predict that Swift will detect some hard and weak bursts that would be outliers to the EpEi relation. However, we cannot quantify this prediction. We stress the importance of understanding the detection–localization–redshift threshold for the coming Swift detections.
Simulating a faint gamma-ray burst population
Authors: Coward D. M.
Published: June 2005

There have now been three supernova-associated gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) at redshift z < 0.17, namely 980425, 030329 and 031203, but the nearby and under-luminous GRBs 980425 and 031203 are distinctly different from the ‘classical’ or standard GRBs. It has been suggested that they could be classical GRBs observed away from their jet axes, or they might belong to a population of under-energetic GRBs. Recent radio observations of the afterglow of GRB 980425 suggest that different engines may be responsible for the observed diversity of cosmic explosions. Given this assumption, a crude constraint on a luminosity function for faint GRBs with a mean luminosity similar to that of GRB 980425 and an upper limit on the rate density of 980425-type events, we simulate the redshift distribution of under-luminous GRBs assuming BATSE and Swift sensitivities. A local rate density of about 0.6 per cent of the local supernova Type Ib/c rate yields simulated probabilities for under-luminous events to occur at rates comparable to the BATSE GRB low-redshift distribution. In this scenario the probability of BATSE/HETE detecting at least one GRB at z < 0.05 is 0.78 over 4.5 years, a result that is comparable with observation. Swift has the potential to detect 1–5 under-luminous GRBs during one year of observation.
Information content of the non-linear matter power spectrum
Authors: Rimes Christopher D. , Hamilton Andrew J. S.
Published: June 2005

We use an ensemble of N-body simulations of the currently favoured (concordance) cosmological model to measure the amount of information contained in the non-linear matter power spectrum about the amplitude of the initial power spectrum. Two surprising results emerge from this study: (i) that there is very little independent information in the power spectrum in the translinear regime (k≃ 0.2 –0.8 h Mpc−1 at the present day) over and above the information at linear scales; and (ii) that the cumulative information begins to rise sharply again with increasing wavenumber in the non-linear regime. In the fully non-linear regime, the simulations are consistent with no loss of information during translinear and non-linear evolution. If this is indeed the case then the results suggest a picture in which translinear collapse is very rapid, and is followed by a bounce prior to virialization, impelling a wholesale revision of the HKLM–Peacock & Dodds formalism.
Justice in River Management: Community Perceptions from the Hunter Valley, New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Hillman Mick
Published: June 2005

Dealing with differing and sometimes conflicting criteria for priority‐setting is an essential part of sustainable natural resource management. However, all too often, these ethical and political considerations are neglected within a planning regime based upon apparently ‘objective’ biophysical assessment techniques. Input into associated decision‐making processes is also frequently restricted to a narrow range of ‘stakes’ based upon historical and geographic circumstances. This paper reports on the findings of interviews and discussion groups in the Hunter Valley, New South Wales, which aimed to canvass the diversity of perceptions of distributive and procedural justice in river rehabilitation. A range of biophysical and social criteria for setting priorities in rehabilitation work was identified. Participants also had differing ideas on the composition of decision‐making bodies and on decision‐making processes. The key implications of these findings are that sustainable river management policy needs to openly address differing conceptions of justice and that rehabilitation practice should be holistic, transdisciplinary and concerned with both outcome and process.
Trace Metal Distribution Within Marine and Estuarine Sediments of Western Moreton Bay, Queensland, Australia: Relation to Land Use and Setting
Authors: Cox Malcolm E. , Preda Micaela
Published: June 2005

This broad‐scale investigation provides an overview of trace metal concentration and distribution within sediments in the subtropical setting of Moreton Bay on the eastern Australian coast. Samples of sediment in one‐metre long PVC cores were collected from the intertidal zone of the western shoreline of the Bay and within its main estuaries. The material is typically silty sand along the Bay shoreline, becoming more clayey within the estuaries.

Downcore pH is typically between 7.0 and 8.0, with layers in some cores of pH 6.0 to 7.0. Locally, pH can fall below 5.0 due to pyrite oxidation or exceed 8.0 due to the presence of shell fragments.

A comparison with results of similar studies in other highly populated centres in Australia shows that overall the Moreton Bay area sediments have relatively low metal content. Typically, concentrations are two to three times higher in fine‐grained, estuarine sediments than in sandy material along the Bay shoreline. Compared with Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council Guidelines for metal concentrations in sediments, the elements most commonly elevated and warranting further assessment are Ni, Hg, Pb, Zn, and occasionally Cd, As and Cr. The highest metal concentrations are found in estuaries, close to more populated or industrialised areas, notably along the Brisbane River.

Overall, the distribution of metals in unconsolidated material is controlled by (a) the heavy metal affinity for Fe‐ and Mn‐rich oxidised sediments, (b) grain size, (c) background concentrations in local rocks, and (d) conditions of weathering and deposition. For example, natural elevation of Fe occurs in marine sediments adjacent to areas of Tertiary basalts and this has produced a relative increase in a number of trace metals in those sediments.

Typically, trace metals correlate well with Al, and with Fe and Mn oxyhydroxides. The results of this study show that in the western Moreton Bay region, natural controls have the major influence over metal distribution; although urban and industrial inputs exist, for much of the area they are secondary. The main sources of introduced trace metals are presumed to be light industry (such as maritime and port facilities, petroleum refineries and storage, manufacturing and chemical processes), landfills, agriculture and intensive fertilising (for example, golf courses) as well as the composite effect of urban centres. Overall, higher concentrations of metals are closely related to intense development. If specific locations are targeted for focussed sampling, elevated concentrations of metals are likely to be found locally.
Re‐valuing the Fringe: Some Findings on the Value of Agricultural Production in Australia's Peri‐Urban Regions
Authors: Houston Peter
Published: June 2005

The agriculture that occurs in Australia's peri‐urban regions is not well understood, nor has its economic value ever been examined systematically. Using a spatial frame derived from research into population change, Agricultural Census data are used to calculate the value of this agricultural production. The analysis suggests that peri‐urban regions in the five mainland States produce almost 25% of Australia's total gross value of agricultural production. Evidence gathered from other surveys suggests that, in some respects, this may be an underestimate. Although qualified and provisional, these findings have important strategic implications for agricultural development, urban and regional development and, ultimately, sustainable development. However, peri‐urban issues are often submerged in public policy deliberations, and peri‐urban agriculture is poorly served by the Agricultural Census.
The Indigenous Land Corporation's First Land Management Policy: Reconciling National Policy with the Contingencies of Local Context
Authors: Lane Marcus B.
Published: June 2005

The Indigenous Land Corporation was established to acquire lands for Indigenous peoples who were unlikely to benefit from recognition of native title. The Corporation is also charged with assisting Indigenous peoples manage their lands. The First Land Management Policy of the Indigenous Land Corporation is examined, and the strengths as well as the omissions and flaws of this initial policy approach to land management are noted. Ways to improve the assistance that the Corporation provides to Indigenous landowners in the management of their lands are proposed. The paper suggests that the Corporation's approach to land management needs to resolve the demands of a national policy mandate with the contingencies of local context.