bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection of HMW glutenin subunit variations among 205 cultivated emmer accessions (Triticum turgidum ssp. dicoccum)
Authors: Li Q. Y. , Yan Y. M. , Wang A. L. , An X. L. , Zhang Y. Z. , Hsam S. L. K. , Zeller F. J.
Published: March 2006

The high molecular weight glutenin subunits (HMW‐GS) encoded by Glu‐1 loci among 205 accessions of cultivated emmer wheat (Triticum turgidum ssp. dicoccum Schrank) collected from different regions of Europe and China were separated and characterized by SDS‐PAGE in combination with two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis (A‐PAGE × SDS‐PAGE) and acidic capillary electrophoresis. High genetic polymorphisms in HMW‐GS compositions were found. A total of 40 alleles (6 for Glu‐A1 and 34 for Glu‐B1) and 62 subunit combinations (genotypes) were detected, some of which were not previously described. At Glu‐A1 locus, two novel alleles, designated Glu‐A1x coding for the subunit 1A × 1.1 and Glu‐A1y coding for the subunit 1A × 2.1′ were found while seven new subunits (1B × 17*, 1B × 6′, 1B × 13′, 1B × 20*, 1By9*, 1By14.1 and 1By8.1) and 20 novel alleles at Glu‐B1 locus were detected. In particular, some additional protein components were detected, which probably were 1Ay subunits encoded by Glu‐A1 locus. The introduction of both Ax and Ay subunits from tetraploid wheats into hexaploid wheats may increase the genetic variability of gluten genes and consequently improve flour technological properties.
Strong heritability across years and sites for pod wall proportion and specific weight in Lupinus albus and genotypic correlation with other pod and seed attributes
Authors: Mera M. , Beltran L. , Miranda H. , Rouanet J. L.
Published: March 2006

Thinner pod walls might contribute to increased yield potential and adaptation of lupins. Fourteen autumn‐sown genotypes of Lupinus albus L. were evaluated over 2 years at four sites in southern Chile. Pod wall proportion (PWP), pod wall specific weight (WSW) and five other pod‐related characters were measured to estimate their genetic variation, heritability across years and sites, and genotypic and phenotypic correlations among the characters. Ranges for PWP and pod WSW were 22.9−43.1% and 16.4−37.4 mg/cm2, respectively. PWP in cultivated L. albus was similar to that reported in L. angustifolius; however, specific weight was substantially lower. Highly significant genotypic effects were found for both characters. Broad sense heritabilities were high for PWP (0.63) and moderate for pod WSW (0.46). These characters were significantly correlated, more so genotypically (rg = 0.67) than phenotypically (rph = 0.36). Selection for low PWP should lead to lower pod wall thickness or density, both of which contribute to pod WSW. Nevertheless, selection for pod WSW could achieve further reductions, particularly if practised among low PWP materials.
Identification of a SCAR marker associated with Bm, the beet mosaic virus resistance gene, on chromosome 1 of sugar beet
Authors: Friesen T. L. , Weiland J. J. , Aasheim M. L. , Hunger S. , Borchardt D. C. , Lewellen R. T.
Published: March 2006

Beet mosaic virus (BtMV) is an aphid transmitted, viral disease of beet found worldwide. The Bm gene, a resistance gene effective against BtMV, was identified in the sugar beet line 8500 and backcrossed into a C37 background to produce line C719. Three populations were developed from the cross of line C719 with the susceptible line C37 with the intent of developing markers for use in marker‐assisted selection. The F2 progeny of three crosses were scored for resistance. Two of the three populations conformed to a 3 : 1 ratio, indicating a single gene trait. Sequence characterized amplified region (SCAR) markers were developed by using bulked segregant analysis combined with random amplified polymorphic DNA type markers. The markers showed close association to the Bm resistance gene and were effective in all three populations. The A1 allele for genetic male sterility also was found to be associated with Bm and the SCAR marker. Development of a single‐nucleotide polymorphism marker from the SCAR sequence was used to validate linkage to chromosome 1 using separate mapping populations. This marker will be useful for the introgression of the Bm gene into germplasm.
(GATA)4 DNA fingerprinting identifies morphologically characterized ‘San Marzano’ tomato plants
Authors: Rao R. , Corrado G. , Bianchi M. , Di Mauro A.
Published: March 2006

Currently, registration, protection and breeding of the ‘San Marzano’ tomato cultivar rely on a number of morphological descriptors. Its correct identification is essential in order to preserve this variety, which is highly valued and known worldwide, from an increasing number of similar cultivars with inferior organoleptic features. However, the identification of this cultivar on the exclusive basis of morpho‐agronomic traits has some intrinsic limits and therefore, molecular signatures are required to efficiently discriminate plants and their fruits, and to characterize and make profitable use of the traditional accessions. The phenotype and genotype of 25 ‘San Marzano’ tomato accessions cultivated in the traditional area are characterized, along with the most popular peeling tomato cultivars, using a combination of DNA molecular analysis and morphological descriptors. (GATA)4 DNA fingerprinting proved to be a powerful tool for the analysis of the ‘San Marzano’ cultivar and in the description of the genetic inconsistencies present in the locally cultivated traditional ‘San Marzano’ collections.
Inheritance of useful traits in cassava grown in subhumid conditions
Authors: Cach N. T. , Lenis J. I. , Perez J. C. , Morante N. , Calle F. , Ceballos H.
Published: March 2006

A diallel study among nine parental clones of cassava was conducted in the subhumid environment on the northern coast of Colombia. Analysis of variance suggested significant effects for the six variables analysed: fresh‐root yield, harvest index, root dry matter content, height of first branching, reaction to thrips and plant‐type scores. General and specific combining ability effects and their interaction with the environment were significant for most of the variables as well. Results suggested that dominance plays a particularly important role in the cases of fresh‐root yield and harvest index but had relatively little importance in the reaction to thrips, dry matter content or height of first branching. Specific breeding approaches are suggested for these traits, depending on the relative importance of additive or non‐additive effects in their inheritance. The correlations among different traits were also analysed and in several cases their magnitude reached statistical and biological significance.
Simple sequence repeat markers linked to a major QTL controlling pod shattering in soybean
Authors: Funatsuki H. , Ishimoto M. , Tsuji H. , Kawaguchi K. , Hajika M. , Fujino K.
Published: March 2006

Shattering of soybean pods prior to harvest leads to a reduction in yield. In order to identify simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers linked to quantitative trait loci (QTLs) conditioning pod shattering, QTL analysis was conducted using an recombinant inbred line (RIL) population segregating for this trait. The degrees of pod‐shattering resistance were evaluated by heat treatment applied to pods harvested from plants in the field and in a growth chamber. Composite interval mapping identified one major QTL between SSR markers Sat_093 and Sat_366 on linkage group J for both environments. The position and the effect of this QTL were confirmed in an F2 population derived from a cross between the pod shattering‐susceptible parental cultivar and a pod shattering‐resistant RIL. The SSR markers linked to the major QTL will be useful for marker‐assisted selection in soybean‐breeding programmes.
‘Motor Magic’: Evaluation of a community capacity‐building approach to supporting the development of preschool children
Authors: Priest Naomi
Published: March 2006

Background and Aims:  There is a lack of literature on the evaluation of programmes addressing the motor and sensory development of preschool children. This paper presents and discusses an exploratory evaluation study of the ‘Motor Magic’ programme run in Adelaide, South Australia. The purpose of this study was to identify outcomes for children, parents and kindergarten staff, as well as develop hypotheses about how these outcomes occurred and in what contexts.

Methods:  Using a realist approach, two focus groups were conducted, one with parents and one with kindergarten staff, to develop and refine key hypotheses.

Results and Conclusion:  Evaluation results for participating children and parents suggested that this programme provided a model of best practice for supporting the development of preschool‐aged children, with or at risk of, developmental delay, within their family and social environments.
ACUTE SYSTEMIC COMPLICATIONS IN THE PRETERM FETUS AFTER ASPHYXIA: ROLE OF CARDIOVASCULAR AND BLOOD FLOW RESPONSES
Authors: Bennet L , Booth L , Malpas SC , Quaedackers JS , Jensen E , Dean J , Gunn AJ
Published: March 2006

Poor perfusion of the kidneys and gut, and associated functional impairment, are major problems in the first days of life in very preterm infants. These complications can be associated with a substantial mortality and further problems such as reduced kidney growth and chronic renal problems in later childhood.

There is very little information, and consequently considerable debate, about how or even whether to improve perfusion of the vital organs of this most vulnerable group of babies. Current treatments simply do not consistently improve babies’ perfusion generally or kidney and gut perfusion and function in particular.

In this review we critically examine clinical and experimental evidence that suggests that exposure to low oxygen levels before and during birth may be a significant contributor to impaired systemic perfusion, and highlight areas requiring further research.

This knowledge is essential to develop and refine ways of improving perfusion of the kidneys and other vital organs in premature babies.
Poor correlation between clinical impression, the small colonic polyp and their neoplastic risk
Authors: Lawrance Ian Craig , Sherrington Colin , Murray Kevin
Published: March 2006

Background and Objectives:   Significance of the small colonic polyp is unclear and its removal is frequently determined by the proceduralist’s clinical impression. Our aims were to determine if clinical discernment is accurate, and the likelihood that lesions < 10 mm are histologically advanced.

Method:   We prospectively collected 1988 lesions from 854 subjects (2215 consecutive colonoscopies). Lesion size, location, patient age, sex and the colonoscopist’s clinical impression was recorded.

Results:  Clinical assessment for neoplasia had a sensitivity of 87.4%, specificity of 65.0%, positive predictive value of 76.0% and negative predictive value of 80.2%, resulting in an accuracy of 73.4%. Factors predictive of correct clinical impression were polyp size, location in the rectum and being pedunculated, but not the patient’s age, sex or the endoscopist’s experience. Of the 1434 lesions ≤ 5 mm in size, 44.5% were neoplastic and 3.5% were histologically advanced. Of the 266 lesions 6–9 mm, 79.3% were neoplastic, 19.9% were histologically advanced, five demonstrated high‐grade dysplasia and three were malignant. Only two patients with an adenocarcinoma or high‐grade dysplasia in a polyp <10 mm had a lesion ≥10 mm elsewhere in the colon. Of the 288 lesions ≥10 mm in size, 92.7% were neoplastic, 29.5% had a villous component, 6.9% demonstrated high‐grade dysplasia and 29.2% were malignant. Factors predictive of neoplasia were patient age, polyp size and sessile nature of the lesion.

Conclusion:  Polyps < 10 mm had a significant risk of neoplasia and advanced histology and, in general, clinical impression correlated poorly with neoplasia. Removal of all lesions proximal to the rectum, regardless of size, should therefore be considered.
Withanoside IV and its active metabolite, sominone, attenuate Aβ(25–35)‐induced neurodegeneration
Authors: Kuboyama Tomoharu , Tohda Chihiro , Komatsu Katsuko
Published: March 2006

At the present, medication of dementia is limited to symptomatic treatments such as the use of cholinesterase inhibitors. To cure dementia completely, that is regaining neuronal function, reconstruction of neuronal networks is necessary. Therefore, we have been exploring antidementia drugs based on reconstructing neuronal networks in the damaged brain and found that withanoside IV (a constituent of Ashwagandha; the root of Withania somnifera) induced neurite outgrowth in cultured rat cortical neurons. Oral administration of withanoside IV (10 µmol/kg/day) significantly improved memory deficits in Aβ(25–35)‐injected (25 nmol, i.c.v.) mice and prevented loss of axons, dendrites, and synapses. Sominone, an aglycone of withanoside IV, was identified as the main metabolite after oral administration of withanoside IV. Sominone (1 µm) induced axonal and dendritic regeneration and synaptic reconstruction significantly in cultured rat cortical neurons damaged by 10 µm Aβ(25–35). These data suggest that orally administrated withanoside IV may ameliorate neuronal dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease and that the active principle after metabolism is sominone.
Neurochemical modulation of ingestive behavior in the ventral pallidum
Authors: Shimura Tsuyoshi , Imaoka Hiroyuki , Yamamoto Takashi
Published: March 2006

The nucleus accumbens and its related circuitry have been shown to play an important role in promoting the intake of hedonically desirable food. A previous report has demonstrated that the blockade of GABAA receptors in the ventral pallidum (VP), a target of GABAergic projection from the nucleus accumbens, greatly increases food, but not water, intake in satiated rats [Stratford et al. (1999)Brain Research, 825, 199–203]. The present study examined which neurotransmission in the VP is specifically involved in the intake of normally preferred taste stimuli. Microinjections of the GABAA antagonist bicuculline selectively increased the intake of saccharin solution but not that of water and quinine solution in water‐deprived rats. In contrast, the facilitation of GABAA receptors by microinjections of muscimol in the VP generally suppressed the intake of saccharin, water and quinine. The same injections induced strong aversive taste reactivity responses to oral stimulation with not only quinine but also water and saccharin. The local administration of d‐Ala2,N‐Me‐Phe4,Glyol5‐enkephalin, a selective µ‐opioid receptor agonist, into the VP had time‐dependent effects, decreasing saccharine intake early and increasing intake late. Microinjections of SCH‐23390, a dopamine D1 receptor antagonist, in the VP suppressed the intake of saccharin but not water or quinine. Microinjections of sulpiride, the dopamine D2 receptor antagonist, and 6‐cyano‐7‐nitroquinoxaline‐2,3‐dione, the AMPA/kainate glutamate receptor antagonist, had no effect on fluid intake. These results reveal that GABA, opioid and D1 receptors in the VP are involved in the consumption of hedonically positive taste stimuli.
Laparoscopic surgery in the pediatric patient post Fontan procedure
Authors: TAYLOR KATHERINE L. , HOLTBY HELEN , MACPHERSON BRUCE
Published: March 2006

We present two case reports describing laparoscopic surgery in patients who have undergone previous Fontan surgery and discuss the theoretical implications of laparoscopic surgery in these patients. A brief discussion of the late complications of Fontan surgery is included.
Quantification of microbial communities in near‐surface and deeply buried marine sediments on the Peru continental margin using real‐time PCR
Authors: Schippers Axel , Neretin Lev N.
Published: March 2006

Deeply buried marine sediments harbour a large fraction of all prokaryotes on Earth but it is still unknown which phylogenetic and physiological microbial groups dominate the deep biosphere. In this study real‐time PCR allowed a comparative quantitative microbial community analysis in near‐surface and deeply buried marine sediments from the Peru continental margin. The 16S rRNA gene copy numbers of prokaryotes and Bacteria were almost identical with a maximum of 108−1010 copies cm−3 in the near‐surface sediments. Archaea exhibited one to three orders of magnitude lower 16S rRNA gene copy numbers. The 18S rRNA gene of Eukarya was always at least three orders of magnitude less abundant than the 16S rRNA gene of prokaryotes. The 16S rRNA gene of the Fe(III)‐ and Mn(IV)‐reducing bacterial family Geobacteraceae and the dissimilatory (bi)sulfite reductase gene (dsrA) of sulfate‐reducing prokaryotes were abundant with 106−108 copies cm−3 in near‐surface sediments but showed lower numbers and an irregular distribution in the deep sediments. The copy numbers of all genes decreased with sediment depth exponentially. The depth gradients were steeper for the gene copy numbers than for numbers of total prokaryotes (acridine orange direct counts), which reflects the ongoing degradation of the high‐molecular‐weight DNA with sediment age and depth. The occurrence of eukaryotic DNA also suggests DNA preservation in the deeply buried sediments.
The eye of the freshwater prosobranch gastropod Viviparus viviparus: ultrastructure, electrophysiology and behaviour
Authors: Zhukov Valery V. , Borissenko Serguei L. , Zieger Marina V. , Vakoliuk Irina A. , Meyer‐Rochow Victor B.
Published: March 2006

We used light and electron microscopy to study the retinal organization of the eye of Viviparus viviparus. Electroretinogram (ERG) recordings were used to investigate the electrophysiological responsiveness to flashes of light of varying intensity and colour, behavioural observations were made of phototactic reactions, and optical measurements and calculations related to the path of light rays in the eye were made. The retina contains principally two types of cells: first, photoreceptor cells with both microvilli and cilia, and second, cells, often strongly pigmented, that are supportive in nature. The ERGs obtained were essentially similar in form, amplitude and duration to those known from other gastropods that have exclusively rhabdomeric photoreceptors. Spectral sensitivity curves closely fitted the absorption spectrum of a rhodopsin‐like pigment. The spectral sensitivity peak was at 475 nm. Measurements of the refractive indices of the lens gave values of 1.55 for the outer layer and 1.57 for the lens core. None of the snails tested exhibited a ‘defensive reflex’ and although no preference between light and dark regions was expressed, we nevertheless argue that, on the basis of optical measurements and calculations, the eye of V. viviparus is well‐adapted for seeing under water. Our main conclusion is that in the eye of V. viviparus with its ‘mixed photoreceptor’ cell type, there is an equal probability for microvilli and cilia to function as principal photoreceptive elements.
Timing of epiphyseal development in the flipper skeleton of the harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) as an indicator of paedomorphosis
Authors: Galatius Anders , Andersen Mai‐Britt Elin Rindom , Haugan Birgitte , Langhoff Heidi Elisabeth , Jespersen Åse
Published: March 2006

Epiphyseal development was investigated on X‐rays of flippers from 158 harbour porpoises from Danish waters. Development followed a proximodistal pattern similar to what is known in other cetacean species. Ossification of epiphyses was rare in the phalanges of the first and fifth digits and in the more distal phalanges of the second, third and fourth digits. Along with the morphology of the first metacarpal and the more distal phalanges this suggested paedomorphosis relative to delphinids. Male and female porpoises showed similar progression of epiphyseal development until approximately the sixth year. From then on, female porpoises showed more progressed development than males. This suggests a higher level of paedomorphosis in the male porpoise. The mechanism behind phocoenid paedomorphosis seems to be progenesis, probably as an adaptation towards a high reproductive rate relative to the delphinids.
Cross‐Sectional and Longitudinal Tests of the Personality and Role Identity Structural Model (PRISM)
Authors: Wood Dustin , Roberts Brent W.
Published: March 2006

ABSTRACT A conceptual hierarchy termed the Personality and Role Identity Structural Model, or PRISM, is offered as a framework for incorporating situational information into trait models. PRISM assumes that personality is structured hierarchically with general dispositions subsuming context‐specific dispositions (role identities), which, in turn, subsume role‐based thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. At Wave 1 (N=149), we found that general traits account for commonalities across traits measured within role identities and that role identities mediate the relationship between general traits and role criteria. In a longitudinal follow‐up of a subsample of the original participants (Wave 2; N=62), we found that general traits and role‐identity traits were more stable than role experiences over time. Also, changes in role experiences were related to changes in role‐identity traits, and, in turn, changes in role‐identity traits were related to changes in general traits. The potential of PRISM for use in understanding the development of personality traits is discussed.
Emotion Facilitates Perception and Potentiates the Perceptual Benefits of Attention
Authors: Phelps Elizabeth A. , Ling Sam , Carrasco Marisa
Published: March 2006

Does emotion affect how people see? We investigated the effects of emotion and attention, as well as their conjoint effect, on contrast sensitivity, a dimension of early vision. We manipulated the emotional valence and the attentional distribution of cues preceding a target stimulus and asked observers to judge the orientation of the target as contrast varied. This study provides the first behavioral evidence that (a) emotion enhances contrast sensitivity irrespective of attention and (b) emotion potentiates the effect of attention on contrast sensitivity.
Prejudice Expectations Moderate Preconscious Attention to Cues That Are Threatening to Social Identity
Authors: Kaiser Cheryl R. , Vick S. Brooke , Major Brenda
Published: March 2006

Two studies examined whether chronic and situational expectations about being stigmatized predict attention toward cues that are threatening to social identity. In Study 1, women's chronic expectations about experiencing sexism were positively associated with their attention toward subliminal cues threatening to their social identity. In Study 2, women were vigilant toward subliminal cues threatening to their social identity when the experimental situation conveyed that their gender was devalued, but not when the experimental situation promoted value and respect for their gender. Women were vigilant toward consciously presented cues threatening to their social identity regardless of the attitudes the experimental context conveyed toward their group. These studies have important theoretical and practical implications for understanding the psychological experience of possessing a devalued social identity.
Chunking in Task Sequences Modulates Task Inhibition
Authors: Koch Iring , Philipp Andrea M. , Gade Miriam
Published: March 2006

In a study of the formation of representations of task sequences and its influence on task inhibition, participants first performed tasks in a predictable sequence (e.g., ABACBC) and then performed the tasks in a random sequence. Half of the participants were explicitly instructed about the predictable sequence, whereas the other participants did not receive these instructions. Task-sequence learning was inferred from shorter reaction times (RTs) in predictable relative to random sequences. Persisting inhibition of competing tasks was indicated by increased RTs in n — 2 task repetitions (e.g., ABA) compared with n — 2 nonrepetitions (e.g., CBA). The results show task-sequence learning for both groups. However, task inhibition was reduced in predictable relative to random sequences among instructed-learning participants who formed an explicit representation of the task sequence, whereas sequence learning and task inhibition were independent in the noninstructed group. We hypothesize that the explicit instructions led to chunking of the task sequence, and that n — 2 repetitions served as chunk points (ABA-CBC), so that within-chunk facilitation modulated the inhibition effect.
Extended Equations of Long Waves
Authors: Kupershmidt Boris A.
Published: March 2006

The Hamiltonian form of the Benney system can be naturally extended by the addition of the free‐surface velocity. A natural Hamiltonian of the extended Hamiltonian structure produces an integrable system, whose dispersive analog, an extension of the Dispersive Water Waves system, is also integrable.
Endogenous Intra‐household Balance of Power and its Impact on Expenditure Patterns: Evidence from India
Authors: LANCASTER GEOFFREY , MAITRA PUSHKAR , RAY RANJAN
Published: March 2006

This paper extends the collective approach to household behaviour by proposing and estimating a model in which the weights attached to individual members are endogenously determined. The estimation is conducted using two different data‐sets from three Indian states. We find that relative bargaining power of the adult decision‐makers has a statistically significant effect on the budget share of an item and that the effects are typically nonlinear and vary significantly across items. This implies that household welfare is better protected in households where bargaining power is spread evenly between the spouses than where one partner enjoys a dominant position.
Calculating Hedonic Price Indices with Unobserved Product Attributes: An Application to the UK Car Market
Authors: REQUENA‐SILVENTE FRANCISCO , WALKER JAMES
Published: March 2006

We show that hedonic price indices that omit model‐specific unobservable product attributes are subject to considerable bias. We utilize a complete panel of new car versions marketed in the UK over 1971–98 which incorporates over 100 observable product characteristics, sales weighting to capture the distribution of purchases across models, and model‐specific fixed effects to account for unobservable characteristics. We find that quality‐adjusted prices obtained from hedonic regressions that do not account for unobservable characteristics exhibit a severe downward bias. We also show that quality‐adjusted prices exhibit distinct sub‐market differences having increased in ‘mass production’ segments and decreased in ‘specialized niches’.
An Investigation into the Determinants of Flight Cancellations
Authors: RUPP NICHOLAS G. , HOLMES GEORGE M.
Published: March 2006

This paper uses Bureau of Transportation data on 35 million US domestic flights between 1995 and 2001 to investigate the determinants of flight cancellations. The paper is novel in two regards, it focuses exclusively on flight cancellations, and it explores the service quality–flight revenue relationship. We find that carriers have some control over the occurrence of flight cancellations given that cancellations are significantly less likely on Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays and for the last flight of the day. There is some evidence linking cancellations with revenue.
Habitat use by tiger quoll (Dasyurus maculatus) (Marsupialia: Dasyuridae) in south‐eastern Australia
Authors: Belcher C. A. , Darrant J. P.
Published: March 2006

Habitat use by tiger quolls was investigated at three sites in south‐eastern Australia through trapping and radio‐tracking. Habitat complexity was measured in each of the habitat types present. Prey densities were determined from spotlighting transects in each habitat type. Habitat utilization differed between sites, but gullies and drainage lines were used significantly more than availability at each site. Escarpment was used more than availability at Suggan Buggan and ridges were used in proportion to availability at Tallaganda. Mid‐slopes were used significantly less than availability at all sites. Habitat use was significantly related with prey densities at most sites. Rock dens appeared to be preferred over log dens, resulting in the use of ridges when complex rocky outcrops, suitable for den sites, were present. Habitat complexity was high in gullies/lower slopes/riparian flats, moderate on mid‐slopes and low to moderate on upper slopes/ridges. High prey densities and the presence of preferred den substrates were the two factors that influenced habitat use by quolls in this study.
Ovarian Hormones and Migraine Headache: Understanding Mechanisms and Pathogenesis—Part 2
Authors: Martin Vincent T. , Behbehani Michael
Published: March 2006

Migraine headache is strongly influenced by reproductive events that occur throughout the lifespan of women. Each of these reproductive events has a different “hormonal milieu,” which might modulate the clinical course of migraine headache. Estrogen and progesterone can be preventative or provocative for migraine headache under different circumstances depending on their absolute serum levels, constancy of exposure, and types of estrogen/progesterone derivatives. Attacks of migraine with and without aura respond differently to changes in ovarian hormones. Clearly a greater knowledge of ovarian hormones and their effect on migraine is essential to a greater understanding of the mechanisms and pathogenesis of migraine headache.
“Benign” Imaging Abnormalities in Children and Adolescents With Headache
Authors: Schwedt Todd J. , Guo Yifan , Rothner A. David
Published: March 2006

Objective.—To study the frequency of “benign” abnormalities on brain imaging in children with headache, compare it with the frequency of imaging findings that dictate a change in patient management, and determine the association of benign findings with headache.

Methods.—A database of 681 headache patients from the pediatric outpatient neurology department over 2 years was reviewed. Patients with benign imaging abnormalities were compared to those with nonbenign findings. Benign abnormalities were defined as those that did not result in a change in patient management. Using literature review, we discuss the benign findings and their possible association with headache.

Results.—Two‐hundred and forty‐one patients (35.4%) had imaging at our facility. Two‐hundred and eighteen had brain magnetic resonance imaging and 23 had brain computed tomography (CT) only. Twenty‐two patients had CT of the sinuses in addition to brain imaging. Forty‐six (19.1%) were found to have 50 benign abnormalities including 13 sinus disease, 11 Chiari I malformations, 7 nonspecific white matter abnormalities, 5 venous angiomas, 5 arachnoid cysts, 4 enlarged Virchow–Robin spaces, 2 pineal cysts, 1 mega cisterna magna, 1 fenestration of the proximal basilar artery, and 1 periventricular leukomalacia. Twenty‐three patients (9.5%) had findings requiring a change in management. These included 5 sinus disease, 4 tumors, 4 old infarcts, 3 Chiari I, 2 moyamoya, 1 intracranial vascular stenosis, 1 internal jugular vein occlusion, 1 arteriovenous malformation, 1 demyelinating disease, and 1 intracerebral hemorrhage. When excluding sinusitis, which was evident clinically prior to imaging, 3 patients had absence of abnormal neurologic symptoms and signs and imaging findings that resulted in a change in management.

Conclusions.—Approximately 20% of pediatric headache patients with brain imaging have benign abnormalities that do not result in a change in headache management. Imaging findings that require a change in management are rare in patients with an absence of abnormal neurologic symptoms and signs, occurring in 1.2% of patients imaged in this study.
Open‐Label Trial of Cinnarizine in Migraine Prophylaxis
Authors: Togha Mansooreh , Ashrafian Hossein , Tajik Parvin
Published: March 2006

Objective.—To assess the effectiveness and safety of cinnarizine as a migraine‐preventive therapy.

Methods.—Sixty patients with more than 2 migraine headache attacks during a 4‐week baseline entered the study and received a 25‐mg tablet cinnarizine twice daily for the first 3 days and then 3 times daily. They were assessed on weeks 2, 6, 10, and 14. Reduction from baseline in 4‐week migraine headache rate was the primary efficacy variable. Reduction in migraine attacks duration and severity was also evaluated.

Results.—The mean reduction in 4‐week migraine headache rate was 4.6 ± 2.2 from the baseline of 6.2 ± 2.2 after 14 weeks of treatment, which was statistically significant (P < 0.001). Percent reduction in 4‐week migraine frequency was 35% after 2 weeks, 74% after 6 weeks, 74% after 10 weeks, and 75% after 14 weeks of treatment. Significant reduction in attack duration (P < 0.001) and severity (P < 0.001) was also noted. No serious adverse events were observed in this series of patient.

Conclusion.—Cinnarizine is an efficacious and well‐tolerated prophylactic antimigraine medication, which has early onset effectiveness.
Treatment of Idiopathic Intracranial Hypotension: Cervicothoracic and Lumbar Blood Patch and Peroral Steroid Treatment
Authors: Hannerz Jan , Dahlgren Gunnar , Irestedt Lars , Meyerson Björn , Ericson Kaj
Published: March 2006

Methods.—Twelve consecutive patients with clinical symptoms and testing results compatible with a diagnosis of idiopathic intracranial hypotension (IIH), but no identifiable site of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage, were treated with a cervicothoracic or lumbar epidural “blood patch” (EBP) or orally administered steroids.

Results.—Prompt and complete relief from headache persisting for at least 4 months was attained in 3 of 4 treatments with cervicothoracic EBP, 2 of 15 with lumbar EBP, and 4 of 8 with steroids.

Conclusion.—These results suggest that in patients who presumably suffer from IIH and yet have no identifiable site of CSF leakage, the presumed leakage more often occurs at the cervicothoracic level than the lumbar. In addition, our experience suggests that some IIH patients may be treated effectively with oral steroids and a trial of such therapy may be considered as an alternative to EBP.
Migraine Triggered by Sucralose—A Case Report
Authors: Bigal Marcelo E. , Krymchantowski Abouch V.
Published: March 2006

Sucralose is the active compound of the most commonly sold sweetener in the United States. Different than aspartame, sucralose is not considered to be a migraine trigger. Herein we report a patient with attacks of migraine consistently triggered by sucralose. She also suffers from menstrually related migraine that had been well‐controlled for several months since she switched her contraceptive from fixed estrogen to triphasic contraceptive pills. Some attacks triggered by sucralose were preceded by aura, and she had never experienced migraine with aura before. Withdrawal of the compound was associated with complete resolution of the attacks. Single‐blind exposure (vs. sugar) triggered the attacks, after an attack‐free period.
Thunderclap Headache From Complicated Sinusitis
Authors: McGeeney Brian E. , Barest Glenn , Grillone Gregory
Published: March 2006

We report a case of complicated pansinusitis presenting with thunderclap headache. The patient quickly developed left ophthalmoplegia and imaging demonstrated extension of inflammation from the sphenoid sinus into the sellar region. Thunderclap headache is well known to occur from a variety of intracranial events, but complicated sinusitis presenting this way is seldom described. The patient recovered completely with appropriate treatment.
Long‐Term Performance of Active‐Fixation Pacing Leads: A Prospective Study
Authors: KISTLER PETER M. , LIEW GARY , MOND HARRY G.
Published: March 2006

Background: Despite the increasingly widespread use of active‐fixation leads, long‐term clinical follow‐up of pacing lead outcomes is lacking. The aim was to analyze pacing parameters over a 2‐year follow‐up. We performed a prospective observational study of consecutive new pacemaker implants using the 1488T St. Jude (100) and the Medtronic 5076 (100) active‐fixation leads. Detailed analysis of pacing parameters was collected at implant, day 1, and 1, 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months.

Methods and Results: One hundred patients underwent implantation of 100 dual‐chamber pacemakers. Initial pacing parameters in the ventricle were threshold 0.7 ± 0.2 V, R wave 12.0 ± 6.5 mV, and impedance 879 ± 224 Ω. Threshold increased significantly from day 1 (0.7 ± 0.2 V) to month 1 (0.9 ± 0.6 V, P < 0.01) and remained stable over the long term. Four of the 100 patients had a threshold >2 V (mean 3.3 ± 0.9 V) all between day 1 and month 3. For all patients, R wave remained stable, but impedance declined significantly from day 1 (879 ± 184 Ω) to month 1 (677 ± 122 Ω, P < 0.01). There were no ventricular lead complications. Initial pacing parameters in the atrium were threshold 0.9 ± 0.3 V, P wave 3.3 ± 2.4 mV, and impedance 606 ± 144 Ω. Threshold remained stable over the long‐term follow‐up. One of 100 patients had a rise in threshold >2 V (2.2 V) between day 1 and month 1. No patients underwent lead repositioning. Sensing and impedance remained stable over the long term. Patient follow‐up was completed in 94% (6 unrelated deaths). There was an 8% incidence of atrial fibrillation.

Conclusion: Active‐fixation leads are generally associated with stable long‐term pacing parameters.
Atrial Linear Lesions: Feasibility Using Cryoablation
Authors: KETTERING KLAUS , AL‐GHOBAINY RASOOL , WEHRMANN MANFRED , VONTHEIN REINHARD , MEWIS CHRISTIAN
Published: March 2006

Background: Long linear lesions are created in the left atrium to modify the atrial substrate, thereby curing atrial fibrillation. The creation of long linear left atrial lesions using radiofrequency (RF) ablation is time consuming and difficult. Furthermore, it might result in significant complications. Cryoablation might overcome some of the disadvantages of RF ablation. Therefore, the aim of our study was to assess whether the creation of a long linear lesion is possible using cryotherapy.

Methods: A right atrial septal linear lesion was created in six pigs (median weight: 50 kg; range: 40–60 kg). The ablation procedure was performed with a 7‐F Freezor cryocatheter. The nonfluoroscopic mapping system LocaLisa was used as a navigation tool. At each point, freezing was maintained at the lowest attainable temperature (−75°C) for 4 minutes. The CARTO system was used for the evaluation of the linear lesions. Furthermore, all animals were sacrificed immediately after the ablation procedure and a postmortem examination of the lesions was performed. Additionally, an analysis of the amplitudes of the intracardiac electrograms registered via the ablation catheter was performed before and after the ablation procedure.

Results: A right atrial septal linear lesion could be created successfully in all six pigs. For the performance of this ablation line, a median number of 16 cryoapplications (range, 11–26) was necessary. The amplitudes of the intracardiac electrograms registered via the ablation catheter decreased significantly after ablation. The CARTO bipolar voltage map revealed very low potentials along the ablation line and showed a sharply demarcated ablation area at the septum in all pigs. Further analysis of the CARTO map revealed an incomplete conduction block in all cases. Most of the pigs had a small gap close to the fossa ovalis. The postmortem examination of 2,3,5‐triphenyl‐tetrazolium chloride‐stained specimens showed sharply demarcated lesions without any ulcerations. There were no major complications during the procedure.

Conclusions: The creation of long linear lesions using cryoablation is feasible and safe. Lesion characteristics are different and more favorable than those created by RF. However, the aim of creating a transmural lesion and a complete conduction block remains an unsolved problem even with current cryoablation techniques. Nevertheless, growing experience and technical improvements might overcome some of the current limitations of this new technique.
Syncopal High‐Degree AV Block Treated with Catheter RF Ablation without Pacemaker Implantation
Authors: PACHON M. JOSE C. , PACHON M. ENRIQUE I. , LOBO TASSO J. , PACHON M. JUAN C. , PACHON M. ZELIA C. , VARGAS REMY N. A. , MANRIQUE RICARDO M. , JATENE ADIB D.
Published: March 2006

A 23‐year‐old‐female patient had undergone a very successful gastric banding surgery to treat obesity. Six months later she began to present recurrent syncope due to very frequent, intermittent high‐degree AV block referred to as pacemaker implantation. The electrophysiological study showed impaired AV nodal conduction but the His‐Purkinje conduction was preserved. Partial catheter radiofrequency ablation of the cardiac autonomic nervous system guided by spectral endocardial mapping (cardioneuroablation) was performed. The electrophysiological parameters were normalized. Holter recordings were normal and the patient was asymptomatic with normal life without pacemaker implantation in a follow‐up 21 months later.
Cavotricuspid Isthmus Catheter Ablation Across an Inferior Vena Cava Filter
Authors: HAMAN LUDEK , PARIZEK PETR , MALY RADOVAN , VOJACEK JAN
Published: March 2006

Patients who suffer from recurrent thromboembolic events often receive an inferior vena cava (IVC) filter. There are few data available regarding treatment of this patient population with catheterization interventions, especially catheter ablation. We report a case of cavotricuspid isthmus catheter ablation across an IVC filter.
A Biventricular ICD System with Biventricular Defibrillation
Authors: SPURRELL PHILIP , GANDHI MANISH , RINALDI CHRISTOPHER A.
Published: March 2006

We describe the case of a 59‐year‐old gentleman with severe dilated cardiomyopathy requiring implantation of a dual‐chamber biventricular implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (ICD). High defibrillation thresholds (DFT) were encountered at implant with an inadequate defibrillation safety margin. Testing of all possible shock vectors/polarities with and without the SVC coil and optimization of the distal RV coil position all proved inadequate. A satisfactory defibrillation safety margin was achieved following placement of a second lead in the coronary sinus to enable biventricular defibrillation. This case highlights an additional strategy for combating high DFTs and is an option even in dual‐chamber biventricular ICD systems.
Abnormal Grain Growth of Lead Zirconium Titanate (PZT) Ceramics Induced by the Penetration Twin
Authors: Kim Kyeong‐Won , Jo Wook , Jin Hong‐Ri , Hwang Nong‐Moon , Kim Doh‐Yeon
Published: March 2006

Lead zirconium titanate (PZT) ceramic specimens were prepared by liquid phase sintering with excess PbO. By the addition of a small amount of MgO, the grain shape was changed from spherical to angular. When SiO2 was further added, twin was induced in a few grains, which grew abnormally during heat treatment. Through the electron backscatter diffraction analysis and the observation of three‐dimensional grain morphology, the abnormally grown large PZT grains were determined to be penetration twinned. Abnormal grain growth was suggested to be because of reentrant edges formed at the twinned grains.
Facile and Surfactant‐Free Route to Nanocrystalline Mesoporous Tin Oxide
Authors: Yang Songwang , Gao Lian
Published: March 2006

A facile and surfactant‐free approach for the synthesis of well‐defined mesoporous nanocrystalline SnO2 has been presented. This method involves hydrothermal treatment of tin chloride with urea in a mixed solvent of ethanol and water in the presence of ammonium sulfate. The as‐prepared material has a high crystallinity and a well‐defined mesoporous structure. The pore size evolution and surface properties of the synthesized nanocrystalline mesoporous SnO2 powders are characterized in detail by X‐ray diffraction, N2 adsorption/desorption isotherms, transmission electron microscopy, thermal analysis, and Fourier transform infrared techniques.
Magnetization and Curie Temperature of Ilmenite–Hematite Ceramics
Authors: Navarrete Liliana , Dou Jian , Allen Drew M. , Schad Rainer , Padmini Periaswamy , Kale Pranoti , Pandey R.K.
Published: March 2006

The morphology, structure, and magnetic properties of the magnetic semiconductor ceramic Ilmenite–Hematite (IH), (1−x)FeTiO3–xFe2O3, were studied as a function of the composition x. The magnetic ordering temperatures that we observed were consistently higher than those reported previously and were, for most of the composition range, above room temperature. We rule out the formation of Fe clusters as the origin of the magnetic properties. These magnetic properties of IH ceramics, in combination with their semiconducting characteristics, render them promising for spin‐electronic applications.
Evaluation of the Simultaneous Effects of Firing Cycle Parameters on Technological Properties and Ceramic Suitability of a Raw Clay Using the Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Khalfaoui Aziz , Hajjaji Mohamed , Kacim Salah , Baçaoui Aziz
Published: March 2006

Simultaneous effects of the firing cycle parameters on common ceramic properties of an illitic–chloritic raw clay were evaluated by adopting the response surface methodology. Globally, simultaneous use of higher firing temperatures, shorter soaking times, and rapid heating rates may have a positive effect on the considered properties. In other respects, it is shown that the Doehlert design is a useful tool for assessing the clay ceramic suitability. The results obtained by this model could not be predicted by the empirical diagrams where the grain size distribution and the chemical composition are taken into account.
Structural and Electrical Properties of W6+‐Doped Bi3TiNbO9 High‐Temperature Piezoceramics
Authors: Zhou Zhiyong , Dong Xianlin , Chen Heng , Yan Haixue
Published: March 2006

High‐temperature piezoceramics based on W6+‐doped Bi3TiNbO9 (BTNO) were prepared by solid‐state reaction sintering. A study of the donor doping effects on the structure, microstructure, and electrical properties was conducted. The Curie point (Tc) decreased in the range of 860°–910°C with increasing amount of W6+doping. W6+ donor dopant decreased the conductivity in BTNO by as much as two orders of magnitude. The increased resistivity in W6+‐doped BTNO induced the materials to be polarized under a high enough field. The highest piezoelectric constant, d33, of 12.0 pC/N was achieved with the composition of Bi3Ti0.99W0.01NbO9. Also, this composition had a good thermal depoling resistance property.
Data Mining in Spontaneous Reports
Authors: Bate Andrew , Edwards I. R.
Published: March 2006

Abstract: The increasing size of spontaneous report data sets and the increasing capability for screening such data due to increases in computational power has led to a recent increase in interest and use of data mining on such data. While data mining plays an important role in the analysis of spontaneous reports, there is general debate on how and when data mining should be best performed. While the cornerstone principles for data mining of spontaneous reports have been in place since the 1960s, several significant changes have occurred to make their use widespread. Superficially the Bayesian methods seem unnecessarily complex, particularly given the nature of the data, but in practice implementation in Bayesian framework gives clear benefits. There are difficulties evaluating the performance of the methods, but they work and save resources in managing large data sets. The use of neural networks allows more sophisticated pattern recognition to be performed.