bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intravenous Magnesium Sulphate in the Acute Treatment of Migraine Without Aura and Migraine with Aura. A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study
Authors: Bigal ME , Bordini CA , Tepper SJ , Speciali JG
Published: March 2003

Magnesium sulphate has been used in the acute treatment of migraines; some studies found it to be a highly effective medication in the acute control of migraine pain and associated symptoms. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study assesses the effect of magnesium sulphate on the pain and associated symptoms in patients with migraine without aura and migraine with aura. Sixty patients in each group were assigned at random to receive magnesium sulphate, 1000 mg intravenously, or 0.9% physiological saline, 10 ml. We used seven parameters of analgesic evaluation and an analogue scale to assess nausea, photophobia and phonophobia. In the migraine without aura group there was no statistically significant difference in the patients who received magnesium sulphate vs. placebo in pain relief. The analgesic therapeutic gain was 17% and number needed to treat was 5.98 at 1 h. There was also no statistical difference in relief of nausea. We did observe a significant lower intensity of photophobia and phonophobia in patients who received magnesium sulphate. In the migraine with aura group patients receiving magnesium sulphate presented a statistically significant improvement of pain and of all associated symptoms compared with controls. The analgesic therapeutic gain was 36.7% at 1 h. A smaller number of patients continued to have aura in the magnesium sulphate group compared with placebo 1 h after the administration of medication. Our data support the idea that magnesium sulphate can be used for the treatment of all symptoms in migraine with aura, or as an adjuvant therapy for associated symptoms in patients with migraine without aura.
Reflux-Triggered Migraine Headache Originating from the Upper Gum/Teeth
Authors: Spierings ELH
Published: March 2003

Two patients with migraine are described who also suffered from gastric reflux. The reflux triggered headaches that originated from the upper gum/teeth and responded to specific reflux treatment.
Almotriptan is an Effective and Well-Tolerated Treatment for Migraine Pain: Results of A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Dowson AJ , Massiou H , Laínez JM , Cabarrocas X
Published: March 2003

Almotriptan is a novel and specific serotonin 5-HT1B/1D agonist for the acute treatment of migraine. This randomized, single-dose, double-blind, multicentre, study assessed the efficacy and safety of oral almotriptan (12.5 mg and 25 mg) in patients with migraine, and compared it with the standard treatment (sumatriptan 100 mg) and placebo. A total of 668 patients treated one migraine attack of moderate or severe intensity with study medication. The primary efficacy assessment was migraine pain relief, improvement from severe or moderate pain to mild or no pain, at 2 h after treatment. Response rates, stratified for variation in baseline pain levels, for both almotriptan doses were equivalent to sumatriptan and significantly better than placebo. Other efficacy assessments confirmed the equivalence of the almotriptan groups with the sumatriptan group. Almotriptan 12.5 mg was as well tolerated as placebo ( P = 0.493) and significantly better tolerated than sumatriptan ( P < 0.001), in terms of the overall incidence of adverse events. There was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of adverse events between almotriptan 25 mg and sumatriptan 100 mg ( P = 0.376). The results from this large clinical study indicate that the new, specific 5-HT1B/1D agonist, almotriptan, is an effective and well-tolerated treatment for migraine pain.
The Efficacy and Safety of Tanacetum Parthenium (Feverfew) in Migraine Prophylaxis—a Double-Blind, Multicentre, Randomized Placebo-Controlled Dose-Response Study
Authors: Pfaffenrath V , Diener HC , Fischer M , Friede M , Henneicke-von Zepelin HH
Published: March 2003

Tanacetum parthenium (feverfew), is a well-known herb for the prophylactic treatment of migraine. The primary objective was to show a dose-response of a new stable extract (MIG-99) reproducibly manufactured with supercritical CO2 from feverfew ( T. parthenium). Furthermore, the study should provide data on the safety and tolerability of MIG-99. In a randomized, double-blind, multicentre, controlled trial with an adaptive design, the clinical efficacy and safety of three dosages of MIG-99 (2.08 mg; 6.25 mg; 18.75 mg t.i.d.) were compared with placebo. The patients ( n = 147) suffered from migraine with and without aura according to International Headache Society (IHS) criteria and were treated with one of the study medications for 12 weeks after a 4-week baseline period. The primary efficacy parameter was the number of migraine attacks during the last 28 days of the treatment period compared with baseline. Secondary endpoints were total and average duration and intensity of migraine attacks, mean duration of the single attack, number of days with accompanying migraine symptoms, number of days with inability to work due to migraine as well as type and amount of additionally taken medications for the treatment of migraine attacks. The design of the study included a pre-planned adaptive interim analysis for patients with at least four migraine attacks within the baseline period. With respect to the primary and secondary efficacy parameter, a statistically significant difference was not found between the overall and the confirmatory intention-to-treat (ITT) sample in the exploratorily analysed four treatment groups. The frequency of migraine attacks for the predefined confirmatory subgroup of patients ( n = 49) with at least four migraine attacks during the baseline period decreased in a dose-dependent manner ( P = 0.001). The highest absolute change of migraine attacks was observed under treatment with 6.25 mg t.i.d. (mean ± SD = x1.8 ± 1.5 per 28 days) compared with placebo (-0.3 ± 1.9; P = 0.02). Overall, 52 of 147 (35%) patients reported at least one adverse event (AE). The incidence of AEs in the active treatment groups was similar to that in the placebo group, and no dose-related effect was observed in any safety parameter. MIG-99 failed to show a significant migraine prophylactic effect in general. Accordingly, in the ITT analysis a dose-response relationship could not be observed. MIG-99 was shown to be effective only in a small predefined subgroup of patients with at least four attacks during the 28-day baseline period where the most favourable benefit-risk ratio was observed with a dosage of three capsules of 6.25 mg MIG-99 extract per day. Because of the low number of patients, these findings need to be verified in a larger sample. The incidence of AEs was similar for all treatment groups.
Tractor Drivers' Head- and Neck-Ache: VåGå Study of Headache Epidemiology
Authors: Sjaastad O , Bakketeig LS
Published: March 2003

The main aim was to study the occurrence of neck- and headache in farmers exposed to seasonal tractor work which involves prolonged, continuous neck rotation. As an integral part of the Vågå study of headache epidemiology, 109 farmers were interviewed according to a set scheme in a ‘semistructured’ interview, concerning complaints in the wake of tractor work. No appreciable headache/neck-ache was found in 13 farmers; neck-ache alone was present in 66 farmers; headache/neck-ache was present in 15 farmers. For the remaining 15, the information was inadequate. Headache appeared only in connection with neck-ache. Only in those with headache did there seem to be a prevalence of nuchal features (such as reduced range of motion in the neck and positive skin-roll test). In 45% of cases, there was a carry-over effect after the chores, mostly of 1-3 days duration. Head- and neck-pain seem to be frequent in tractor drivers during chores.
Migraine, Major Depression, Panic Disorder, and Personality Traits in Women Aged 40-74 Years: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Mattsson P , Ekselius L
Published: March 2003

This study investigates the associations between migraine on the one hand and lifetime major depression, lifetime panic disorder, and neuroticism evaluated using the Swedish universities Scales of Personality on the other. A neurologist clinically assessed 728 women aged 40-74 years attending a population-based mammography screening programme. The associations between lifetime migraine and personality traits and psychiatric disorders were insignificant in multivariable analysis. However, in old women (60-74 years) the risk for active migraine was strongly associated with a history of major depression and high levels of stress susceptibility and somatic trait anxiety. Furthermore, in old women, high levels of stress susceptibility and somatic trait anxiety were associated with low ratings of migraine pain intensity and lower levels of these traits with high ratings after controlling for disability during migraines, whereas there were only small differences in middle-aged women. The results suggest that certain aspects of neuroticism are important mental correlates of the ability of old women to endure migraine pain.
Hydroxocobalamin, A Nitric Oxide Scavenger, in the Prophylaxis of Migraine: an Open, Pilot Study
Authors: van der Kuy P-HM , Merkus FWHM , Lohman JJHM , Berg JWM ter , Hooymans PM
Published: March 2003

Drugs which directly counteract nitric oxide (NO), such as endothelial receptor blockers, NO-synthase inhibitors, and NO-scavengers, may be effective in the acute treatment of migraine, but are also likely to be effective in migraine prophylaxis. In the underlying pilot study the prophylactic effect of the NO scavenger hydroxocobalamin after intranasal administration in migraine was evaluated. Twenty patients, with a history of migraine of <1 year and with two to eight migraine attacks per month, were included in an open trial. A baseline period was followed by an active treatment period of 3 months with 1 mg intranasal hydroxocobalamin daily. Patients were instructed to complete a diary in which details of each attack were described. A reduction in migraine attack frequency of ≥50% was seen in 10 of 19 patients, which corresponds to 53% of the patients (responders). A reduction of ≥30% was noted in 63% of the patients. The mean attack frequency in the total study population showed a reduction from 4.7 ± 1.7 attacks per month to 2.7 ± 1.6 ( P< 0.001). For the responders the migraine attack frequency was reduced from 5.2 ± 1.9 (baseline) to 1.9 ± 1.3 attacks per month ( P < 0.005), while for those who did not respond a non-significant reduction was found: 4.1 ± 1.4 to 3.7 ± 1.5 (P > 0.1). A reduction was also observed for the total duration of the migraine attacks per month, the total number of migraine days per month and the number of medication doses for acute treatment used per month. This is the first prospective, open study indicating that intranasal hydroxocobalamin may have a prophylactic effect in migraine. As a percentage of responders in prophylactic trials of > 35-40% is unlikely to be a placebo effect, a double-blind study is warranted.
Exertional Headache. I. Vågå Study of Headache Epidemiology
Authors: Sjaastad O , Bakketeig LS
Published: March 2003

The aim was to assess the prevalence ('life-time') and manifestations of exertional headache and to validate some of the clinical diagnostic criteria. This study is part of the Vågå headache epidemiology study, where 1838 18-65-year-old dalesmen were personally examined in a ‘semistructured’ interview. With the criteria used, the prevalence was 12.3%. There was a slight but significant female preponderance (F/M ratio 1.38). There was a mixture of short- and more long-lasting attacks. Attacks followed long-lasting and strenuous effort/exhaustion. The precipitation mechanisms differed essentially from the cough/sneezing type of provocation. Blinded recheck of records ( n = 100) as well as recheck of dalesmen ( n = 41) showed high k values. The clinical manifestations differed essentially from Rooke's (1968) description (that mainly dealt with the ‘cough headache’-type). The present findings were similar to those in Pascual's description of exertional headache from 1996.
Increased Frequency of Migraine in Narcoleptic Patients: A Confirmatory Study
Authors: Dahmen N , Kasten M , Wieczorek S , Gencik M , Epplen JT , Ullrich B
Published: March 2003

Previously we have reported an increased prevalence of migraine in narcoleptic patients. Because of the theoretical and clinical implications of this finding we recruited an independent new study sample of 100 patients with proven narcolepsy and conducted a structured 26-item interview based on the international diagnostic criteria for headache disorders, the Kiel Headache Questionnaire. Narcolepsy symptoms were measured by means of the Stanford Centre for Narcolepsy Sleep Inventory. Migraine prevalence was twofold to fourfold increased in the narcoleptic patients and amounted to 44.4% in women and 28.3% in men. The onset of narcolepsy symptoms was 12.3 ± 11.4 years before the onset of migraine symptoms. The results might be regarded as indicative of a common pathophysiological pathway relevant to both of the two disorders.
Cranial and Peripheral Interictal Vascular Changes in Migraine Patients
Authors: de Hoon JN , Willigers JM , Troost J , Struijker-Boudier HA , Van Bortel LM
Published: March 2003

As migraine is associated with an increased risk for ischaemic stroke and peripheral vasospastic disorders, it was hypothesized that interictal vascular changes may be present in migraine patients. Using ultrasound and applanation tonometry, the cardiovascular properties of migraine patients were compared with those of matched control subjects. Vascular parameters of the carotid arteries, cardiac output and systemic vascular resistance did not differ between both groups. Right temporal artery diameter was larger in migraine patients (mean difference 101 μm; 95% confidence interval (CI) 9/194 μm; P = 0.033). At the brachial artery, migraine patients displayed a smaller distension (difference -24 μm; 95% CI -45/-4 μm; P = 0.021) and a decreased compliance (difference -0.025 mm2/kPa; 95% CI -0.047/-0.003 mm2/kPa; P = 0.024). Thus, migraine patients display an increased peripheral arterial stiffness. The presence of these interictal vascular changes suggests that migraine might be part of a more generalized vascular disorder.
Assessment and management of auto‐erotic asphyxiation in a young man with learning disability: a multidisciplinary approach to intervention
Authors: Williams Alyson , Phillips Linda , Ahmed Zed
Published: March 2003

A 20‐year‐old man with a mild‐to‐moderate learning disability was presented to services with a history of engaging in auto‐erotic practices. A multidisciplinary assessment was conducted which demonstrated that the client understood the difference between appropriate and inappropriate sexual behaviour, but his ability to transfer this knowledge to real‐life situations was limited. An intervention was instigated that focused on developing a greater range of social opportunities for the client whilst simultaneously monitoring his potential to re‐engage in the dangerous sexual practices. This intervention has led to an overall decrease in the frequency and severity of the behaviour that has been maintained over time.
An exploratory survey of opportunities and barriers to creative leisure activity for people with learning disabilities
Authors: Reynolds Frances
Published: March 2003

The present study examines an aspect of lifestyle that has received little attention, namely creative arts leisure occupations, and explores the opportunities and barriers to participation that confront community‐dwelling adults with learning disabilities. A survey of the managers of 34 residential homes in two major cities in the UK was carried out (reflecting a 54% return rate). They reported that art activities (including painting and pottery) were the most commonly available form of creative leisure occupation, and drama the least available. Creative occupations tended to occur in specialist settings, such as day centres, and a minority of residents participated in mainstream community groups and environments. Managers perceived the major barrier to creative leisure participation to be expense (i.e. for the activity itself and for support staff). Further barriers included insufficient staff to accommodate individual's personal interests, transport problems and unwelcoming community resources/attitudes. The results of the study indicate that many residents can engage in art within either mainstream and specialist resources. Other active creative occupations are not as accessible. Given its dependency on the voluntary return of questionnaires, the present survey may have provided a benign view of creative leisure provision. Even so, the barriers that were identified confirm some continuing problems with accessing community/mainstream facilities.
Overpressure and petroleum generation and accumulation in the Dongying Depression of the Bohaiwan Basin, China
Authors: Xie X. , Bethke C. M. , Li S. , Liu X. , Zheng H.
Published: March 2003

The occurrence of abnormally high formation pressures in the Dongying Depression of the Bohaiwan Basin, a prolific oil‐producing province in China, is controlled by rapid sedimentation and the distribution of centres of active petroleum generation. Abnormally high pressures, demonstrated by drill stem test (DST) and well log data, occur in the third and fourth members (Es3 and Es4) of the Eocene Shahejie Formation. Pressure gradients in these members commonly fall in the range 0.012–0.016 MPa m−1, although gradients as high as 0.018 MPa m−1 have been encountered. The zone of strongest overpressuring coincides with the areas in the central basin where the principal lacustrine source rocks, which comprise types I and II kerogen and have a high organic carbon content (>2%, ranging to 7.3%), are actively generating petroleum at the present day. The magnitude of overpressuring is related not only to the burial depth of the source rocks, but to the types of kerogen they contain. In the central basin, the pressure gradient within submember Es32, which contains predominantly type II kerogen, falls in the range 0.013–0.014 MPa m−1. Larger gradients of 0.014–0.016 MPa m−1 occur in submember Es33 and member Es4, which contain mixed type I and II kerogen. Numerical modelling indicates that, although overpressures are influenced by hydrocarbon generation, the primary control on overpressure in the basin comes from the effects of sediment compaction disequilibrium. A large number of oil pools have been discovered in the domes and faulted anticlines of the normally pressured strata overlying the overpressured sediments; the results of this study suggest that isolated sandstone reservoirs within the overpressured zone itself offer significant hydrocarbon potential.
Perceptions of the first time restaurant customer
Authors: Johns Nick , Kivela Jack
Published: March 2003

Interviews with first time restaurant customers showed that all informants approached the new situation with great apprehension. They dealt with the resulting situational stress in different ways: by going in a group, or with a friend who had already been to the restaurant, by ascribing various feelings and motivations to other diners, by claiming ownership of specific features, and by editing out or ‘laughing off’ negative aspects of the experience. This study confirms and complements the findings of other studies, especially those concerned with customer expectations, perceived reliability and the interpersonal skills of service staff. Restaurant customers' perceptions may be explained in terms of territorial and group behaviour, as eating out occurs on another's territory, but at the same time a nonantagonistic social framework is required for the experience to be enjoyable. Implications for restaurant marketing are that customer groups should be targeted rather than individuals, greater reliance should be placed upon word of mouth and friends taking friends, and more consideration should be paid to the ‘messages’ emitted by restaurant exteriors, in order to render them less threatening.
Climate change in conservation areas of South Africa and its potential impact on floristic composition: a first assessment
Authors: Rutherford M. C. , Powrie L. W. , Schulze R. E.
Published: March 2003

Projected climate change has been suspected of affecting the biota of conserved nature areas in different and significant ways. Nevertheless, strategic management within some nature conservation agencies appears relatively unprepared for the possible consequences of climate change. National level planning of reserve design networks has also tended to skirt the issue, possibly owing to insufficient analysis. This paper provides a first assessment of the possible effects of climate change on plant diversity within the protected area network of South Africa. A climate change scenario of increased temperature but no change in precipitation resulted in derived optimum growth days increasing in some reserves through increased temperature extending the growing season. In some other reserves optimum growth days declined through greater evapotranspiration. We concentrated on the larger reserves of the latter group for which conditions that are more limiting were predicted. Plant species were evaluated in terms of their critical limits in growth days and minimum temperature. Over a third of the species analysed for one reserve (Augrabies Falls National Park and Melkbosrand) was indicated to become locally extinct with climate change. Another reserve in the region showed fewer than 1% local extinctions. It is clear that although a certain magnitude of climate change is a prerequisite for these extinctions, the rate and number of extinctions depend strongly on the different environmental tolerances of the specific biotic components of the conserved area. Potential immigration of other species to Augrabies Falls/Melkbosrand required to balance the projected extinctions with climate change would need migration abilities and conditions that are unlikely to be met. A net decrease in plant diversity may thus be expected. The results confirm that with the climate change scenario used, the concept of sustaining species through fixed protected areas may be fundamentally flawed, at least in certain areas.
Biogeographic variation in coral species diversity on coral reefs in three regions of Indonesia
Authors: Edinger Evan N. , Kolasa Jurek , Risk Michael J.
Published: March 2003

Abstract . This paper assesses variation in coral species diversity within the Indonesian archipelago, and the influence of regional species pools, geomorphology and anthropogenic pollution on coral species diversity and occurrence. We obtained transects from 33 sites on 14 reefs in three regions of Indonesia: Ambon (Moluccas), South Sulawesi and the Java Sea. We determined the within‐site species richness by using species‐sampling curves. Cluster analysis and multi‐dimensional scaling showed that land‐based pollution was the primary determinant of coral species diversity and species occurrence on reefs. Relatively unaffected reference sites in eastern Indonesia were approximately 20% more diverse than Java Sea reference sites. Rare species formed a higher proportion of the coral fauna on eastern Indonesian sites, and eastern Indonesian apparent endemic species contributed approximately 25% of the total species pool sampled. Between‐site variation in species occurrence was lower on Java Sea reefs than on eastern Indonesian reefs. A larger species pool in eastern Indonesia than in the Java Sea probably accounted for most of the difference in within‐site species diversity between eastern Indonesian and Java Sea reference sites. High fishing intensity in the Java Sea, including destructive fishing practices, may have also contributed to reduced within‐site species diversity on Java Sea reference reefs. Despite the fact that the Java Sea was exposed during Pleistocene lowstands, and was recolonized by marine organisms only within the last 10 000 years, coral species diversity and assemblage composition on the Java Sea reefs was largely similar to open ocean reefs in eastern Indonesia.
Deficit in community species richness as explained by area and isolation of sites
Authors: Bruun Hans Henrik
Published: March 2003

Abstract . The potential community species richness was predicted for 85 patches of seminatural grassland in an agricultural landscape in Denmark. The basis of the prediction was a very large dataset on the vegetation, soil pH and topography in Danish grasslands and related communities. Species were inserted into potential species pools according to their preferences regarding soil acidity and water availability (expressed as potential solar irradiation), and to the ranges in these two factors observed in each grassland patch. The difference between the predicted and the observed patch‐level species richness, community richness deficit, varied considerably among patches. Community richness deficit exhibited a negative relationship with patch area, and for small patches a positive relationship with patch isolation.
Typological thinking and the conservation of subspecies: the case of the San Clemente Island loggerhead shrike
Authors: Patten Michael A. , Campbell Kurt F.
Published: March 2003

Abstract.  Hybridization with closely related taxa poses a significant threat to endangered subspecies (e.g. outbreeding depression, inbreeding) and confounds efforts to manage and conserve these taxa through a loss of taxonomic identity, in part because of the practical necessity of defining subspecies in a typological manner. We examined nine morphological characters in 167 post‐juvenile museum specimens to determine if loggerhead shrikes Lanius ludovicianus Linnaeus 1766 on San Clemente Island (off the coast of California) remain diagnosable as L. l. mearnsi Ridgway (1903); an island endemic listed as endangered by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. Four recent shrike specimens from the island were compared to historical specimens using a bivariate scatter plot and a discriminant function (the latter was used to classify recent specimens post hoc). The few recent specimens were not diagnosable as L. l. mearnsi, but instead appear to be intergrades between L. l. mearnsi and L. l. anthonyi Mearns 1898 (the subspecies endemic to Santa Cruz, Santa Catalina, Santa Rosa and Anacapa islands), and are perhaps closer to pure anthonyi. Our data and the species’ natural history and distribution suggest that shrikes currently on San Clemente Island are the result of genetic ‘swamping’ of mearnsi by anthonyi. Under a necessarily typological definition of a subspecies, it is evident that mearnsi is probably no longer diagnosable. However, we conclude that protection of the entire Channel Islands population of the loggerhead shrike would be the best management strategy, as the species has declined drastically throughout the islands.
Beetle assemblages on willow trees: do phenolic glycosides matter?
Authors: Topp Werner , Kulfan Jan , Zach Peter , Nicolini Frank
Published: March 2003

Herbivorous beetles were sampled in central Slovakia and in the Tatra Mountains of northern Slovakia from seven different Salix species which are partly characterized by smooth leaves containing phenolic glycosides and partly by hairy leaves containing tannins. The collection included about 8000 individuals representing 129 species. Of the 129 species, 77 species are able to use the willows as hosts; the remaining 52 ‘tourist’ species comprise less than 3% of the collected individuals.

The data on species richness and abundance did not generally support the ‘feeding specialization’ hypothesis. The proportion of specialized (= monophagous and oligophagous) beetles feeding on willows of both morphological and biochemical groups was in the same range. Host plants of the two groups could support high diversity and high evenness values, even when leaf characteristics and plant chemicals largely influenced species assemblage. The region in which the willow trees grow had a considerable impact on host plant use. Generalist beetle species predominated in central Slovakia. By contrast, in the Tatra Mountains, specialist feeders which are able to use phenolic glycosides to their advantage were predominant. The number of species and the total density of individuals collected from willows containing phenolic glycosides (S. fragilis and S. purpurea) did not usually vary between the two regions. In contrast, fewer species and individuals were found in the Tatra Mountains when they settled on willow species containing tannins (S. caprea and S. cinerea). Also, the phylogenetic status of host plants affected species assemblages. In central Slovakia willow species of the subgenus Vetrix (S. purpurea, S. caprea and S. cinerea) generally showed a higher beetle diversity (Hs) than species of the subgenus Salix (S. fragilis, S. alba and S. triandra), although both subgenera comprise species of both morphological and biochemical groups. Furthermore, when the analysis was restricted to beetles of central Slovakia, which should be most adapted to their host plants (i.e. catkin feeders and phyllophages in the adult and larval stage), the phylogenetic status was found to be more important than any single leaf character measured.
Biotransformation of xenobiotics by amine oxidases
Authors: Benedetti Margherita Strolin
Published: March 2003

Although the cytochrome P450 (CYP) system ranks first in terms of catalytic versatility and the wide range of xenobiotics it detoxifies or activates to reactive intermediates, the contribution of amine oxidases and in particular of monoamine oxidases (MAOs) to the metabolism of xenobiotics is far from negligible but has been largely neglected.

In this review on the involvement of amine oxidases in the metabolism of xenobiotics, the major characteristics reported for the CYP system (protein, reaction, tissue distribution, subcellular localisation, substrates, inhibitors, inducers, genetic polymorphism, impact of different physiopathological conditions on the activity, turnover) will be compared, whenever possible, with the corresponding characteristics of amine oxidases (MAOs in particular).

The knowledge of the involvement of MAO‐A, ‐B or both in the metabolism of a drug allows us to predict interactions with selective or non‐selective MAO inhibitors (e.g. the metabolism of a drug deaminated by both forms of MAO is not necessarily inhibited in vivo by a selective MAO‐A or ‐B inhibitor). If a drug is metabolized by MAOs, competitive interactions can occur with other drugs that are MAO substrates, e.g. with β‐adrenoceptor agonists and antagonists, prodrugs of dopamine, serotonin 5‐HT1‐receptor agonists as well as with primaquine, flurazepam and citalopram. Moreover, the knowledge of the involvement of MAOs in the metabolism of a drug may suggest possible, although not obligatory, interactions with tyramine‐containing food or drink, with over the counter medicines sold to relieve the symptoms of coughs and colds (generally containing the indirectly‐acting sympathomimetic amine phenylpropanolamine) or with phenylephrine‐containing preparations.

Finally, biotransformation by amine oxidases, as by CYP, does not always lead to detoxication but can produce toxic compounds.
Effect of Eurycoma longifolia Jack on orientation activities in middle‐aged male rats
Authors: Ang H. H. , Lee K. L.
Published: March 2003

The effects of various fractions of Eurycoma longifolia Jack were studied on the orientation activities of the inbred, adult middle‐aged Sprague–Dawley rats, 9 months old and retired breeders towards the receptive females (anogenital sniffing, licking, mounting), the environment (climbing, raring, exploration), themselves (nongenital grooming, genital grooming) and mobility (restricted, unrestricted) after treating these subjects twice daily for 10 days. Results showed that subjects treated with 800 mg/kg of E. longifolia Jack increased orientation activities towards the receptive females (anogenital sniffing, licking and mounting), increased genital grooming towards themselves and restricted movements to a particular area of the cage but decreased interest in the external environment (climbing, raring, exploration) as compared with the controls during the investigation period. In conclusion, this study gives further evidences that different fractions of E. longifolia Jack modified the orientation activities of the middle‐aged male rats.
Warming and response to contractile agents in calf cardiac vein: role of the nitric oxide
Authors: Atalık K. E. , Şahin A. S. , Ulusoy H. B. , Doğan N.
Published: March 2003

The effects of warming on the response to various contractile agents of calf cardiac vein were studied using 2.5‐mm long cylindrical segments. Concentration–response curves for carbachol (10−9–3 × 10−4 m), 5‐hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT; 10−8–3 × 10−3), potassium chloride (KCl; 10−4–5 × 10−2 m) and calcium chloride (CaCl2; 10−4–10−2) were isometrically recorded at 37 and 41 °C (warming). During warming the sensitivity, but not the maximal response, of carbachol 5‐HT, KCl, and CaCl2 was significantly higher than at 37 °C. Warming to 41 °C after treatment with NG‐nitro‐L arginine methyl esther (10−5 m) did not modify the effect of warming. These results suggest that nitric oxide seems to have no role in the warming‐induced responses in calf cardiac vein.
Comparison of the effects of antenatal magnesium sulphate and ritodrine exposure on circulatory adaptation in preterm infants
Authors: Rantonen T.H. , Grönlund J.U. , Jalonen J.O. , Ekblad U.U. , Kääpä P.O. , Kero P.O. , Välimäki I. A.T.
Published: March 2003

We examined the effects of maternal magnesium sulphate (MgSO4) and ritodrine treatments on the autonomic cardiovascular control in preterm neonates with respiratory distress syndrome during the first 2 days of life. Serial measurements of heart rate (HR), blood pressure (BP) and respirogram were performed during the first 2 days of life in 28 preterm infants below 33 weeks of gestation with antenatal exposure to MgSO4 (n=13) or ritodrine (n=15), and in 12 non‐exposed preterm controls. Spectral analysis was used for the quantification of HR and BP variability. Although antenatal MgSO4 exposure had no effect on HR or the systolic, diastolic or mean BP, it was associated with significant decreased beat‐to‐beat changes in BP. In contrast, ritodrine exposure had no consistent effects on the autonomic cardiovascular control during the first 2 days of life. Our data suggest that maternal MgSO4 treatment decreases the neonatal high frequency changes in BP. This early vascular stabilizing effect of antenatal MgSO4 exposure may contribute to a lowered risk of cerebral vascular catastrophes, in the vulnerable areas of the brain, among the preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome.
Insulin inhalation with absorption enhancer at meal‐times results in almost normal postprandial insulin profiles
Authors: Almér Lars‐Olof , Wollmer Per , Jonson Björn , Almér Anneli Troedsson
Published: March 2003

Background: Conventional insulin therapy with subcutaneous injections of regular insulin at meal‐times result in plasma insulin peaks that are lower and appear later than meal related insulin peaks in healthy individuals. The present study was designed in order to evaluate the resulting insulin concentrations in peripheral blood after inhalation of micro crystalline human insulin together with an absorption enhancer [dioctyl sodium sulphosuccinate (DOSS)] via a powder inhaler.

Methods: Ten insulin dependent middle‐aged non‐obese diabetic patients (mean diabetes duration 21 years) were included. Blood samples for glucose and insulin were taken immediately before and 13 times, up to 300 min, after insulin inhalation. The mass median aerodynamic diameter of the particles was 3·2 μm. The inhaled insulin dose was 39 U.

Results: Within 5 min after the end of the 2 min inhalation procedure the mean increase of insulin was 7·0 μU ml–1, and the mean maximum concentration, 12·1 μU ml–1, was reached between 20 and 30 min. There was then a slow decline until base‐line was reached after around 210 min and there were no adverse events.

Conclusions: Inhalation of a mixture of 39 U of insulin and enhancer resulted in a rapid plasma insulin peak with a slow decline, similar to the normal postprandial insulin profile.
Anthropometry, bioelectrical impedance and dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry in the assessment of body composition in elderly Finnish women
Authors: Haapala Irja , Hirvonen Anu , Niskanen Leo , Uusitupa Matti , Kröger Heikki , Alhava Esko , Nissinen Aulikki
Published: March 2003

In this study, the bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), skinfold thickness measurement (STM) and dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA), as a reference method, were compared with each other in the assessment of body composition in elderly (62–72‐year‐old) Finnish women (n=93). BIA had better agreement with DXA in the assessment of fat free mass (FFM, R2=0·70, Sres=2·1) and fat mass (FM, R2=0·93, Sres=2·3) than the STM (FFM, R2=0·62, Sres=2·4; FM, R2=0·89,Sres=2·8). There was quite a large variation in the estimates when different BIA prediction equations were used. The equation developed in this study, FFM (kg)=−128·06 + 1·85 × BMI−0·63 × weight + 1·07 × height − 0·03 × resistance +10·0 × waist–hip ratio, yielded a small and unbiased error (0·5 ± 1·6 kg), with a small residual standard deviation (R2=0·83, Sres=1·6). However, error associated with the estimate of FM was positively related to the degree of FM. BIA(Heitmann) equation yielded unbiased estimates of both FFM and FM (FFM, R2=0·77, Sres=1·8; FM, R2=0·95, Sres=1·9). Both the STM and BIA (manufacturer's equation) resulted in error which was statistically significant and positively correlated with FFM and FM. These results indicate that BIA prediction equations, chosen with care, can improve the performance of equations based upon anthropometric measurements alone in the assessment of body composition in elderly women.
Reduction of risk factors following lifestyle modification programme in subjects with type 2 (non‐insulin dependent) diabetes mellitus
Authors: Krook Anna , Holm Ingemar , Pettersson Solveig , Wallberg‐Henriksson Harriet
Published: March 2003

Exercise and improved diet is known to be beneficial in the management of type 2 (non‐insulin dependent) diabetes mellitus. In practice, however, it is difficult for patients to implement these changes unaided. We hypothesized that a lifestyle modification programme involving residential visits would result in beneficial effects on glycaemic control and lipid profile. Three hundred and four individuals with type 2 diabetes participated in a lifestyle modification programme, involving three residential visits (2 weeks, 1 week and one 3‐day visit) spaced over 31 weeks. The subjects were all referred for treatment following repeated failure to achieve metabolic control in primary care settings. Participants received information and practical guidance regarding exercise training, nutrition, as well as stress management and psychological counselling. Clinical parameters were determined at each visit. After completion of the programme, subjects showed significant improvements in glycaemic control (P<0·0001). Oxygen uptake was significantly improved (P<0·0001) and blood pressure (P<0·0001), body mass index (P<0·0001) and serum cholesterol (P<0·001) was significantly reduced, while HDL cholesterol (P<0·05) was significantly increased. There were no changes in LDL cholesterol values. Subjects also reported increased well‐being and reduced stress. In conclusion, a 31‐week lifestyle modification programme results in marked improvements in glycaemic control, blood pressure and well‐being in subjects with type 2 diabetes. Thus, this type of lifestyle modification programme is a powerful treatment option to reduce risk factors associated with diabetes and diabetic complications, even in patients who have not responded to conventional diabetic therapy.
A longitudinal study of maternal oxygen saturation during short‐term submaximal exercise
Authors: Pirhonen Jouko P , Lindqvist Pelle G. , Marsal Karel
Published: March 2003

Purpose:  Longitudinal prospective study before, during and after normal pregnancy of the effect of short‐term submaximal exercise on maternal oxygen saturation.

Methods:  Fourteen healthy women were recruited to the study before a planned pregnancy, and were followed seven times during the pregnancy and for up to 6 month after delivery. A submaximal bicycle exercise test with a target heart rate of 85% of the predicted age‐adjusted maximum was performed. Maternal oxygen saturation was continuously recorded using a pulse oximeter.

Results:  Maternal oxygen saturation at maximum work‐load had increased significantly already at 8 weeks gestation compared with preconception levels, and remained at a significantly higher level until 29 weeks of gestation. Thereafter, the oxygen saturation continued to be higher even at 6 month postpartum. During the exercise test, the lowest saturation was found during the late recovery period, this remained unchanged before, during and after pregnancy.

Conclusion:  A pregnant woman responds to short‐term exercise by increasing the oxygen saturation until 29 weeks. After that, the saturation level decreases but remains at a higher level even 6 month after delivery compared with preconception levels.
Can Extractive Reserves Save the Rain Forest? An Ecological and Socioeconomic Comparison of Nontimber Forest Product Extraction Systems in Petén, Guatemala, and West Kalimantan, Indonesia
Authors: Salafsky Nick , Dugelby Barbara L. , Terborgh John W.
Published: March 2003

We compare existing nontimber forest product extraction systems in Petén, Guatemala, and West Kalimantan, Indonesia, to identify key ecological, socioeconomic, and political factors in the design and implementation of extractive reserves. Ecological parameters include the spatial and temporal availability of harvested products and the sustainability of harvesting practices from both a population and an ecosystem perspective. Socioeconomic and political factors include the presence or absence of well‐defined resource tenure rights, physical and social infrastructure, markets, and alternative land uses. We conclude that although extractive reserves can play a significant role in preserving tropical forests as a part of a broader land‐use spectrum, their effectiveness is highly dependent on prevailing local ecological, socioeconomic, and political conditions. Ultimately, extractive reserves should be regarded as one component of an overall approach to the problem of tropical deforestation.
Geographic Analysis of California Condor Sighting Data
Authors: Stoms David M. , Davis Frank W. , Cogan Christopher B. , Painho Marco O. , Duncan Brean W. , Scepan Joseph , Scott J. Michael
Published: March 2003

Observation and habitat data were compiled and analyzed in conjunction with recovery planning for the endangered California Condor (Gymnogyps californianus). A geographic information system (GIS) was used to provide a quantitative inventory of recent historical Condor habitats, to measure the association of Condor activity patterns and mapped habitat variables, and to examine spatio‐temporal changes in the range of the species during its decline. Only five percent of the study area within the historic range is now used for urban or cultivated agricultural purposes. Observations of Condor feeding perching, and nesting were nonrandomly associated with mapped land cover, in agreement with life history information for the species. The precipitous decline in numbers of Condors in this century produced only a small reduction in the limits of the observed species’ range, as individual birds continued to forage over most of the range. Some critical risk factors such as shooting and lead poisoning are difficult to map and have not been included in the database. Besides the applications demonstrated in this case study, GIS can be a valuable tool for recovery planning, in the design of stratified sampling schemes, or for extrapolation of habitat models over unsurveyed regions. We conclude with recommendations from this case study regarding when to consider using GIS and the importance of pilot studies and sensitivity analysis.
The Uses of Statistical Power in Conservation Biology: The Vaquita and Northern Spotted Owl
Authors: Taylor Barbara L. , Gerrodette Tim
Published: March 2003

The consequences of accepting a false null hypothesis can be acute in conservation biology because endangered populations leave little margin for recovery from incorrect management decisions. The concept of statistical power provides a method of estimating the probability of accepting a false null hypothesis. We illustrate how to calculate and interpret statistical power in a conservation context with two examples based on the vaquita (Phocoena sinus), an endangered porpoise, and the Northern Spotted Owl (Strix occidentalis caurina). The vaquita example shows how to estimate power to detect negative trends in abundance. Power to detect a decline in abundance decreases as populations become smaller, and, for the vaquita, is unacceptably low witin the range of estimated population sizes. Consequently, detection of a decline should not be a necessary criterion for enacting conservation measures for rare species. For the Northern Spotted Owl, estimates of power allow a reinterpretation of results of a previous demographic analysis that concluded the population was stable. We find that even if the owl population had been declining at 4% per year, the probability of detecting the decline was at most 0.64, and probably closer to 0.13; hence, concluding that the population was stable was not justified. Finally, we show how calculations of power can be used to compare different methods of monitoring changes in the size of small populations. The optimal method of monitoring Northern Spotted Owl populations may depend both on the size of the study area in relation to the effort expended and on the density of animals. At low densities, a demographic approach can be more powerful than direct estimation of population size through surveys. At higher densities the demographic approach may be more powerful for small populations, but surveys are more powerful for populations larger than about 100 owls. The tradeoff point depends on density but apparently not on rate of decline. Power decreases at low population sizes for both methods because of demographic stochasticity.