bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geotectonic evolution of diamondiferous paragneisses, Kokchetav Complex, northern Kazakhstan: The geologic enigma of ultrahigh‐pressure crustal rocks within a Paleozoic foldbelt
Authors: Dobretsov N. L. , Sobolev N. V. , Shatsky V. S. , Coleman R. G. , Ernst W. G.
Published: April 2006

Abstract The Kokchetav Complex is a tectonic mega‐melange consisting of seven pre‐Ordovician units (units I‐VII) of contrasting lithologies and P–T conditions of metamorphism, overlain and/or intruded by four post‐recrystallization entities. Most of the constituent rock types display affinities with continental crust; paraschists and paragneisses, which carry biogenically produced carbon, clearly were laid down near the surface of the Earth. Microdiamond (and rare coesite) inclusions are contained in strong, refractory garnet, zircon, clinopyroxene, and kyanite, some of the constituent neoblastic phases of this metasedimentary unit. Systematic mineral parageneses and textural relationships support the hypothesis that the metamorphic assemblages represent a close approach to chemical equilibrium at the time of formation. Metamorphism of diamond‐bearing paragneisses and schists transpired at 535 ± 5 Ma; physical conditions included minimum pressures of 40 kbar and temperatures exceeding 900 °C. Other associated units contain mineralogic evidence of somewhat lower to considerably lower pressures and temperatures: observed magnesite + diopside pairs, coesite, grossular‐pyropic garnet, potassic clinopyroxene, Si‐rich phengite, barroisite‐crossite(?), aluminous titanite and/or Al‐rutile, and the assemblage talc + kyanite + garnet all testify to relatively elevated pressures of formation. The metamorphosed lithotectonic units represent individual, discrete stages in what initially may have been a continuous P‐T series, but intense post‐metamorphic dislocation has resulted in the preservation of a chaotically mixed sequence rather than an unbroken gradation in preserved conditions of metamorphism. Only units I‐III, and probably VIb may represent portions of a dismembered subduction zone lithologie assemblage. The uplift to mid‐crustal levels and cooling of the mega‐melange took place by about 515–517 Ma, at which time the complex was stabilized as a part of the Kazakhstan microcontinental collage. An hypothesized Late Vendian‐Early Cambrian subduction of the Kazakhstan‐North Tianshan(?) microcontinental salient to depths exceeding 125 km, followed by decoupling from the descending oceanic crust‐capped lithospheric plate is held responsible for the ultrahigh‐pressure metamorphism of the Kokchetav Complex. Inasmuch as vestiges of a calc‐alkaline volcanic/plutonic arc of approximately Early Cambrian age are preserved as only scattered relics in the general region, the plate‐tectonic setting may have involved an intra‐oceanic, Marianas‐type, incipient arc which was subsequently removed through transform faulting or erosion.
Quaternary volcanism of the Japanese Islands
Authors: Uto Kozo , Tatsumi Yoshmjki
Published: April 2006

Abstract
Quaternary volcanism of the Japanese Islands is examined from the perspective of experimental petrology, geographic distribution of volcanoes and spatial geochemical variations. The dehydration of amphibole and chlorite at a 110 km depth and of phlogopite at ∼180 km in the downdragged hydrous mantle layer would result in the occurrence of two volcanic chains parallel to the trench axis. Long‐term subduction of the old Pacific plate and recent subduction of the young Philippine Sea plate beneath East Japan and West Japan volcanic belts respectively, would be critical for the significant difference in intensity, style and geochemistry of Quaternary volcanism between the two volcanic belts. The geochemistry of volcanic rocks in Northeast Japan and those in the Ryukyu arc is typical of ‘island‐arcs’ having low LIL/HFS element ratios, while alkalic basalts along the Japan Sea coast side in Southwest Japan have high LIL/HFS ratios similar to intra‐continental or oceanic island basalts. Across‐arc variations in eruptive volume and distributional density of volcanoes and in geochemistry are documented in Northeast Japan and are well explained by the decreasing degrees of partial melting toward back‐arc side, and the difference in geochemistry of fluids supplied by the downdragged hydrous layer.
The composition of back‐arc basin lower crust and upper mantle in the Mariana Trough: A first report
Authors: Stern Robert J. , Bloomer Sherman H. , Martinez Fernando , Yamazaki Toshitsugu , Harrison T. Mark
Published: April 2006

Abstract
The Mariana Trough is an active back‐arc basin, with the rift propagating northward ahead of spreading. The northern part of the Trough is now rifting, with extension accommodated by combined stretching and igneous intrusion. Deep structural graben are found in a region of low heat flow, and we interpret these to manifest a low‐angle normal fault system that defines the extension axis between 19°45′ and 21°10′N. A single dredge haul from the deepest (∼5.5 km deep) of these graben recovered a heterogeneous suite of volcanic and plutonic crustal rocks and upper mantle peridotites, providing the first report of the deeper levels of back‐arc basin lithosphere. Several lines of evidence indicate that these rocks are similar to typical back‐arc basin lithosphere and are not fragments of rifted older arc lithosphere. Hornblende yielded an 40Ar/39Ar age of 1.8 ± 0.6 Ma, which is interpreted to approximate the time of crust formation. Harzburgite spinels have moderate Cr# (<40) and coexisting compositions of clinopyroxene (CPX) and plagioclase (PLAB) fall in the field of mid‐ocean ridge basalt (MORB) gabbros. Crustal rocks include felsic rocks (70‐80% SiO2) and plutonic rocks that are rich in amphibole. Chemical compositions of crustal rocks show little evidence for a ‘subduction component’, and radiogenic isotopic compositions correspond to that expected for back‐arc basin crust of the Mariana Trough. These data indicate that mechanical extension in this part of the Mariana Trough involves lithosphere that originally formed magmatically. These unique exposures of back‐arc basin lithosphere call for careful study using ROVs and manned submersibles, and consideration as an ocean drilling program (ODP) drilling site.
Early Permian zircon uranium‐lead ages for plagiogranites in the Yakuno ophiolite, Asago district, Southwest Japan
Authors: Herzig Charles T. , Kimbrough David L. , Hayasaka Yasutaka
Published: April 2006

Abstract
Prior work has defined a two‐stage history for Yakuno ophiolite petrogenesis consisting of older oceanic basement, and younger island‐arc rocks and subordinate elastic rocks. First‐stage Yakuno rocks have transitional‐type Morb or oceanic plateau affinities, and second‐stage Yakuno rocks are more similar to immature island‐arc settings. Zircon U‐Pb isotopic dates of plagiogranite from the Asago district of Southwest Japan yield crystallization ages of 285 ± 2 Ma for the first‐stage ophiolite component, and 282 ± 2 Ma for the second‐stage component of the ophiolite. These results indicate that the two petrologi‐cally distinct components of the Yakuno ophiolite in this area formed in a short time interval in the Early Permian. The zircon U‐Pb crystallization ages provide a maximum age for the base of the stratigraphically overlying Maizuru Group.
Bone mineral density in malnourished children without rachitic manifestations
Authors: ALP HANDAN , ORBAK ZERRIN , KERMEN TAHIR , USLU HATICE
Published: April 2006

Background: The purpose of this study was to determine bone mineral density (BMD) of lumbar spine in malnourished children without rachitic manifestations, before and after dietary treatment and vitamin D supplementation, and to compare with healthy children of the same community.

Methods: The subjects were 41 children with malnutrition and 21 healthy controls. None of the children had clinical, biochemical and/or radiological rickets features. The patients had moderate 15 and severe 26 malnutrition according to Gomez's criteria. Using the Wellcome Classification, marasmus was diagnosed in 16 children, kwashiorkor in 10 children. The children with malnutrition were given vitamin D supplementation.

Results: BMD was lower in children with malnutrition than in controls (P < 0.01). Mineralization significantly effected the severity of malnutrition (P < 0.01). BMD in kwashiorkor was similar to that of marasmus. The mean BMD level of infants receiving 400 IU of vitamin D daily was similar to that of infants receiving 800 IU of vitamin D daily at the beginning of treatment. In two suplementation groups, the BMD gradually increased during the first 3 months of treatment, but this increase in the infants receiving 800 IU of vitamin D daily was significantly higher than that in the infants receiving 400 IU of vitamin D daily.

Conclusion: Measurements of BMD in children with malnutrition, especially severe malnutrition, are to be recommended in the initial assessment of the severity of osteopenia and in the follow up to monitor the response to therapy. Children with malnutrition should be given 800 IU of vitamin D daily. The loss of BMD must be accepted as a complication of malnutrition.
Is elevated level of soluble endothelial protein C receptor a new risk factor for retinal vein occlusion?
Authors: Gumus Koray , Kadayifcilar Sibel , Eldem Bora , Saracbası Osman , Ozcebe Osman , Dundar Semra , Kirazli Serafettin
Published: April 2006

Abstract

Background:  To evaluate the systemic and thrombophilic risk factors for retinal vein occlusion (RVO) and to determine whether the elevated level of soluble endothelial protein C receptor (sEPCR) is a risk factor for thrombosis.

Methods:  In this case–control study, 56 patients with central RVO (CRVO), 26 patients with branch RVO (BRVO) and 78 healthy sex‐ and age‐matched subjects were enrolled. Following ophthalmological examination, venous blood was analysed for glucose, lipid profile, lipoprotein (a), homocysteine, activated partial thromboplastin time, fibrinogen, factor VIII, protein C activity, protein S activity, activated protein C resistance, antithrombin III activity, lupus anticoagulant, anti‐cardiolipin antibody, anti‐phospholipid antibody, sEPCR, factor V Leiden mutation and prothrombin G20210A mutation.

Results:  Apart from hypertension, glaucoma, lipoprotein (a), homocysteine and factor VIII, elevated levels of sEPCR were found to be a risk factor for CRVO (odds ratio, 1.02; 95% confidence interval, 1.007–1.028; P = 0.001). Patients with CRVO had significantly higher levels of sEPCR than those with BRVO and controls (respectively, 160.1 ± 83.8, 116.8 ± 65.2 and 111.3 ± 60.5; P = 0.005). Moreover, 39% of patients with CRVO had levels of sEPCR more than 200 ng/mL, and only 5% of controls and 11% of patients with BRVO had similar high levels.

Conclusions:  Besides known classical risk factors, elevated levels of sEPCR seem to be an important candidate risk factor for especially CRVO.
Variations in the human cannabinoid receptor (CNR1) gene modulate striatal responses to happy faces
Authors: Chakrabarti Bhismadev , Kent Lindsey , Suckling John , Bullmore Edward , Baron‐Cohen Simon
Published: April 2006

Happy facial expressions are innate social rewards and evoke a response in the striatum, a region known for its role in reward processing in rats, primates and humans. The cannabinoid receptor 1 (CNR1) is the best‐characterized molecule of the endocannabinoid system, involved in processing rewards. We hypothesized that genetic variation in human CNR1 gene would predict differences in the striatal response to happy faces. In a 3T functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scanning study on 19 Caucasian volunteers, we report that four single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the CNR1 locus modulate differential striatal response to happy but not to disgust faces. This suggests a role for the variations of the CNR1 gene in underlying social reward responsivity. Future studies should aim to replicate this finding with a balanced design in a larger sample, but these preliminary results suggest neural responsivity to emotional and socially rewarding stimuli varies as a function of CNR1 genotype. This has implications for medical conditions involving hypo‐responsivity to emotional and social stimuli, such as autism.
Delayed administration of deferoxamine reduces brain damage and promotes functional recovery after transient focal cerebral ischemia in the rat
Authors: Freret Thomas , Valable Samuel , Chazalviel Laurent , Saulnier Romaric , Mackenzie Eric T. , Petit Edwige , Bernaudin Myriam , Boulouard Michel , Schumann‐Bard Pascale
Published: April 2006

The mechanisms underlying functional recovery after stroke are poorly understood. Brain‐adaptive responses to the hypoxic stress elicited by ischemia could contribute to these mechanisms. Indeed, hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1 (HIF‐1), one of the main transcriptional factors regulated by oxygen level, increases the expression of several beneficial genes such as erythropoietin, glucose transporter‐1 and vascular endothelial growth factor. In order to strengthen the expression of these hypoxia‐inducible factors, we administered deferoxamine, an iron chelator known to stabilize HIF‐1α protein expression, and examined its effects on the functional deficits induced by ischemia. Anesthetized Sprague–Dawley rats were subjected to 60 min of intraluminal occlusion of the middle cerebral artery. Chronic deferoxamine treatment (300 mg/kg, s.c.), or its vehicle, started 24 h after ischemia and was continued bi‐weekly until the animals were killed. Sensorimotor deficits were periodically assessed over 2 months, and at this end point, the lesion volume was determined by histology. Treatment with deferoxamine significantly decreased the size of brain damage (−28%) after ischemia and improved behavioral recovery. Indeed, neurological score and sensorimotor performances in the adhesive removal test recovered earlier in the deferoxamine‐treated animals. Moreover, the long‐lasting skilled forepaw reaching deficits were attenuated by deferoxamine. Although an antioxidant effect of deferoxamine cannot be excluded, the hypothesis that its beneficial effects could be mediated by an increase in HIF‐1 target genes merits further investigations. Our data suggest that delayed administration of deferoxamine could represent an interesting therapeutical approach to treat focal cerebral ischemia.
IP3 receptor in the hair cells of frog semicircular canal and its possible functional role
Authors: Rossi Maria Lisa , Prigioni Ivo , Gioglio Luciana , Rubbini Gemma , Russo Giancarlo , Martini Marta , Farinelli Federica , Rispoli Giorgio , Fesce Riccardo
Published: April 2006

The presence and functional role of inositol trisphosphate receptors (IP3R) was investigated by electrophysiology and immunohistochemistry in hair cells from the frog semicircular canal. Intracellular recordings were performed from single fibres of the posterior canal in the isolated, intact frog labyrinth, at rest and during rotation, in the presence of IP3 receptor inhibitors and drugs known to produce Ca2+ release from the internal stores or to increase IP3 production. Hair cell immunolabelling for IP3 receptor was performed by standard procedures. The drug 2‐aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2APB), an IP3 receptor inhibitor, produced a marked decrease of mEPSP and spike frequency at low concentration (0.1 mm), without affecting mEPSP size or time course. At high concentration (1 mm), 2APB is reported to block the sarcoplasmic‐endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+‐ATPase (SERCA pump) and increase [Ca2+]i; at the labyrinthine cytoneural junction, it greatly enhanced the resting and mechanically evoked sensory discharge frequency. The selective agonist of group I metabotropic glutamate receptors (RS)‐3,5‐dihydroxyphenylglycine (DHPG, 0.6 mm), produced a transient increase in resting mEPSP and spike frequency at the cytoneural junction, with no effects on mEPSP shape or amplitude. Pretreatment with cyclopiazonic acid (CPA, 0.1 mm), a SERCA pump inhibitor, prevented the facilitatory effect of both 2APB and DHPG, suggesting a link between Ca2+ release from intracellular stores and quantal emission. Consistently, diffuse immunoreactivity for IP3 receptors was observed in posterior canal hair cells. Our results indicate the presence and a possibly relevant functional role of IP3‐sensitive stores in controlling [Ca2+]i and modulating the vestibular discharge.
Neuroanatomical specificity in the expression of the immediate early gene c‐fos following expression of appetitive and consummatory male sexual behaviour in Japanese quail
Authors: Taziaux M. , Cornil C. A. , Dejace C. , Arckens L. , Ball G. F. , Balthazart J.
Published: April 2006

We investigated the neural sites related to the occurrence of appetitive (ASB) and consummatory (CSB) aspects of male sexual behaviour in Japanese quail. Castrated males treated with testosterone were exposed for 5 min to one of four experimental conditions: (i) free interaction with a female (CSB group); (ii) expression of rhythmic cloacal sphincter movements in response to the visual presentation of a female (ASB‐F group); (iii) or a male (ASB‐M group), and (iv) handling as a control manipulation. Brains were collected 90 min after the start of behavioural tests and stained by immunocytochemistry for the FOS protein. An increase in FOS expression was observed throughout the rostro‐caudal extent of the medial preoptic nucleus (POM) in CSB males, whereas the view of a female (ASB‐F) induced an increased FOS expression in the rostral POM only. In the CSB group, there was also an increase in FOS expression in the bed nucleus striae terminalis, and both the CSB and ASB‐F groups exhibited increased FOS expression in aspects of the ventro‐lateral thalamus (VLT) related to visual processing. Moreover, both the CSB and ASB‐M groups showed increased FOS expression in the lateral septum. These data provide additional support to the idea that there is a partial anatomical dissociation between structures involved in the control of both aspects of male sexual behaviour and independently provide data consistent with a previous lesion study that indicated that the rostral and caudal POM differentially control the expression of ASB and CSB in quail.
The Risks of Sumatriptan Administration in Patients with Unrecognized Subarachnoid Haemorrhage (SAH)
Authors: Pfadenhauer K , Schönsteiner T , Keller H
Published: April 2006

Administration of sumatriptan in subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) patients, misdiagnosed as migraine patients, may induce symptomatic cerebral vasospasm with potentially dangerous consequences. Over a 5-year period, we observed three patients with a 3-15-year history of migraine, who received sumatriptan for acute headache. Two patients received 6 mg sumatriptan subcutaneously on days 4 and 6, and one patient 3 x 100 mg sumatriptan orally on day 1 after an acute headache episode. In all three cases, an alleviation of headache intensity from severe to moderate was observed. When headache recurred and meningeal signs appeared, SAH was diagnosed by computed tomography in all three cases. No neurological deficits occurred during the further course of the disease. In both patients with a SAH caused by an aneurysm, transcranial Doppler sonography demonstrated vasospasm of the basal cerebral arteries. An antinociceptive effect of sumatriptan can be observed in SAH patients in good clinical condition, which suggests a specific craniovascular antinociceptive action. This may lead to mis- diagnosis as migraine and delayed appropriate diagnosis and treatment.
A Novel ATP1A2 Mutation in a Family with FHM Type II
Authors: Pierelli F , Grieco GS , Pauri F , Pirro C , Fiermonte G , Ambrosini A , Costa A , Buzzi MG , Valoppi M , Caltagirone C , Nappi G , Santorelli FM
Published: April 2006

Familial hemiplegic migraine (FHM) is a rare subtype of migraine with aura with an autosomal dominant pattern of inheritance. Six FHM families underwent extensive clinical and genetic investigation. The authors identified a novel ATP1A2 mutation (E700K) in three patients from one family. In the patients, attacks were triggered by several factors including minor head trauma. In one subject a 3-day coma developed after a cerebral angiography. Overall, the phenotype of the patients closely resembles that of previously reported cases of FHM type II. The E700K variant might be regarded as the cause of the disease in this family, but this was not tested functionally.
The Natural Course of Migraine Attacks. A Prospective Analysis of Untreated Attacks Compared with Attacks Treated with a Triptan
Authors: Linde M , Mellberg A , Dahlöf C
Published: April 2006

This study was designed to document prospectively and explore scientifically the natural course of untreated migraine attacks in detail. A new, integrated, time-intensity method for self-assessment of the intensity of symptoms was tested on 18 adult International Headache Society migraineurs who volunteered to refrain from treatment during one attack. The area under the curves (AUC) during 72 h of untreated attacks was compared with attacks treated with a triptan. Migraine attacks are heterogeneous both inter- and intra-individually. In untreated attacks, the pain can stabilize and fluctuate around a plateau with a wavelength of hours. In general, the symptoms of each separate migraine attack follow a similar temporal course, with only moderate deviations. In some cases photo- and/or phonophobia (hyperexcitability) were not experienced at all, despite severe pain and nausea. Moreover, there was sometimes no nausea despite severe pain and hyperexcitability. Vomiting does not always correlate to the intensity of nausea and is not always followed by decreased headache intensity. Treatment with a triptan usually only temporarily distorts the basic pattern of attacks. Hyperexcitability can respond before pain to treatment. These genuine findings of the classic symptoms of migraine attacks support the notion of a mutual underlying pathophysiological mechanism.
Exteroceptive Suppression of Masseter Muscle Activity in Juvenile Migraineurs
Authors: Ebinger F
Published: April 2006

The second exteroceptive suppression period (ES2) of masseter or temporalis muscle activity may be reduced in adults with chronic tension-type headache. In adults with migraine, ES2 was found normal or tended to be protracted. To date, no studies on exteroceptive suppression in children and adolescents with headaches have been published. We investigated the exteroceptive suppression of masseter muscle activity in 14 migraineurs and 19 controls between 6 and 18 years of age. It was elicited by electrical stimulation at the labial commissure. No differences were found regarding the first suppression period, but ES2 was significantly longer in the migraine group than in controls. The results of the migraine group suggest overactivity of the interneurons of the reflex loop due to impaired inhibitory control from superior antinociceptive systems already at the beginning of this headache disorder.
Comparison of various insulin sensivity indices in psoriatic patients and their relationship with type of psoriasis
Authors: Ucak S , Ekmekci Tr , Basat O , Koslu A , Altuntas Y
Published: April 2006

Aim  We aimed to identify insulin resistance and its possible association with types, duration and severity of psoriasis, and to evaluate various simple insulin‐sensitivity indices and beta‐cell function in psoriasis.

Methods  A cross‐sectional study was performed in 110 non‐obese adults (18–50 years old): 70 with psoriasis (53 type I, 17 type II psoriasis) and 40 healthy individuals. Blood glucose, insulin and C‐peptide levels were measured. Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT); insulin sensitivity and beta‐cell function indices derived from a single sample and OGTT were determined and compared in three groups.

Results  Total, type I and type II psoriatics had IGT rates of 18.6%, 13.2% and 40%, respectively. In the control group IGT was only 2.5%. Homeostasis Model Assessment (HOMA) beta cell index, fasting insulin, Raynaud index, HOMA‐IR and FIRI results were higher in total, type I and type II psoriatics than in controls (P < 0.05, for all). Fasting Belfiore index, QUICKY index, ISI HOMA and FIRI−1 results were lower in total, type I and type II psoriatics than in controls (P < 0.05, for all), and type I psoriatics had higher levels of these indices than type II psoriatics (P < 0.05, for all).

Conclusion  Our study showed that psoriatic patients were more insulin resistant than healthy subjects and type II psoriatics were more susceptible than type I psoriatics to develop IGT. We suggest that beta‐cell function and insulin sensitivity indices are useful methods for measuring insulin resistance in psoriatics. We propose that OGTT should be applied especially in type II psoriatics because of increased rate of IGT in this group.
A 308‐nm monochromatic excimer light in the treatment of palmoplantar psoriasis
Authors: Nisticò SP , Saraceno R , Stefanescu S , Chimenti S
Published: April 2006

Background  Various reports have shown the efficacy of narrow‐band UVB (311–313 nm) and excimer laser (308 nm) in the treatment of psoriasis.

Objective  To prove the efficacy of light produced by xenon‐chloride excimer at 308 nm (monochromatic excimer light, MEL) in the treatment of palmoplantar psoriasis (PP).

Methods  Fifty‐four patients (29 male and 25 female) affected by PP were treated with MEL every 7–14 days. A mean number of 10 sessions was performed with an increase of the dose depending on patient's skin type and response.

Results  All 54 patients completed the treatment. After 4 months of MEL we observed a complete remission in 31 patients, a partial remission in 13 patients, and a moderate improvement in 10 patients.

Conclusions  These results suggest that MEL can be considered as a valid therapeutic option for treatment of selected forms of PP.
Narrowband UVB phototherapy for small plaque parapsoriasis
Authors: Aydogan K , Karadogan SK , Tunali S , Adim SB , Ozcelik T
Published: April 2006

Background  Narrowband UVB (NB‐UVB) phototherapy has been shown to be effective for the treatment of various dermatoses.

Objective  To analyze the effects of NB‐UVB phototherapy for small plaque parapsoriasis (SPP).

Methods  The response of 45 patients (24 females, 21 males, age range 20–58 years) with histologically confirmed SPP were assessed. NB‐UVB therapy was given 3–4 times weekly. The initial treatment dose was 70% of the minimal erythema dose. The doses were increased gradually with a standard increment of 20/10/0. Clinical response was determined as follows: complete response (CR), at least 90% clearing of skin lesions; partial response (PR), at least 50% but less than 90% clearing and no response (NR), less than 50% clearing. The follow‐up period was 6–24 months after the treatment.

Results  NB‐UVB treatment led to CR in 33 of 45 patients (73.3%) with a mean cumulative dose of 14.3 J/cm2 (range 3.2–24.1 J/cm2) after a mean number of 29 exposures (range 16–51 sessions); PR in 12 of 45 (26.6%) with a cumulative dose of 15.6 J/cm2 (range 10.4–23.3 J/cm2) after a mean number of 29.4 exposures (range 25–50 sessions). Nineteen patients with CR had skin phototype II, 13 had type III and 1 had type I. Among the patients with PR, 7 had skin phototype II and 5 had type III. Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation was observed in 51% of the patients. Relapses occurred in six patients within a mean time of 7.5 months (2–12 months).

Conclusion  NB‐UVB phototherapy has several advantages over treatment with broadband UVB and PUVA. NB‐UVB therapy for patients with SPP is an effective, safe and practical alternative treatment modality. Further larger studies with longer follow‐up periods are necessary to determine the proper clinical response and long‐term complications of NB‐UVB therapy in this disease.
Relative vulnerability of female turtles to road mortality
Authors: Steen D. A. , Aresco M. J. , Beilke S. G. , Compton B. W. , Condon E. P. , Kenneth Dodd C. , Forrester H. , Gibbons J. W. , Greene J. L. , Johnson G. , Langen T. A. , Oldham M. J. , Oxier D. N. , Saumure R. A. , Schueler F. W. , Sleeman J. M. , Smith L. L. , Tucker J. K. , Gibbs J. P.
Published: April 2006

Recent studies suggest that freshwater turtle populations are becoming increasingly male‐biased. A hypothesized cause is a greater vulnerability of female turtles to road mortality. We evaluated this hypothesis by comparing sex ratios from published and unpublished population surveys of turtles conducted on‐ versus off‐roads. Among 38 166 turtles from 157 studies reporting sex ratios, we found a consistently larger female fraction in samples from on‐roads (61%) than off‐roads (41%). We conclude that female turtles are indeed more likely to cross roadways than are males, which may explain recently reported skewed sex ratios near roadways and signify eventual population declines as females are differentially eliminated.
Predator discrimination and ‘personality’ in captive Vancouver Island marmots (Marmota vancouverensis)
Authors: Blumstein D. T. , Holland B.‐D. , Daniel J. C.
Published: April 2006

A major impediment to recovering declining populations successfully is the mortality of reintroduced or translocated animals. We generally assume that captive‐born animals may lose their antipredator behaviour abilities in captivity, but studies rarely compare predator recognition abilities of captive‐born and wild‐captured animals to test this. To identify whether predator discrimination abilities of the critically endangered Vancouver Island marmots Marmota vancouverensis were lost in captivity, we presented wild‐captured and captive‐born marmots with taxidermic mounts of predators (a cougar Felis concolor and wolf Canis lupus) together with control stimuli (marmot, domestic goat Capra aegagrus, the cart on which all stimuli were presented and a ‘blank’ no‐stimulus control). Regardless of specific predator discrimination abilities, for some species overall ‘personality’ may be associated with response to predators and subsequent survival. Thus, to quantify overall reactivity in the presence of a predator, we also conducted a mirror‐image stimulus (MIS) presentation experiment where marmots were video‐recorded with or without the presence of a wolf. Marmots discriminated among these stimuli, responding the most to the wolf and cougar. The MIS results suggest that marmots varied along a continuum of reactivity. The amount of reactivity was unaffected by the presence of a wolf, and was correlated with our highest level of responsiveness (vigilance at the burrow and time within the burrow) to the wolf. Taken together, we conclude that marmots differentiate predators from non‐predators and that this ability has not been lost under the conditions in which they have been reared.
Effect of local prey availability on gyrfalcon diet: DNA analysis on ptarmigan remains at nest sites
Authors: Nyström J. , Dalén L. , Hellström P. , Ekenstedt J. , Angleby H. , Angerbjörn A.
Published: April 2006

The aim of this study was to investigate how the diet of gyrfalcon Falco rusticolus in northern Sweden was affected by the relative availability of its two main prey species: rock ptarmigan Lagopus mutus and willow ptarmigan Lagopus lagopus. In order to do so, we needed a method to estimate the gyrfalcon's diet proportions of rock and willow ptarmigan from prey remains that we collected from nest sites in separate breeding territories. We also needed a method to calculate the availability of the two prey species in the same breeding territories that the prey remains originated from. We could then compare the diet proportions with prey availability and investigate if the gyrfalcons utilized the two species strictly in relation to their densities, or if they showed a preference for any of the prey species. Morphometric identification to species level from ptarmigan remains was not possible. Therefore, we developed a PCR‐based process of DNA analysis, which could be applied on any ptarmigan bone or bone remains. This method allowed us to establish the ratio of rock and willow ptarmigan in gyrfalcon diets that originated from single gyrfalcon breeding occasions. The relative availability of the two ptarmigan species in gyrfalcon breeding territories was calculated with a GIS model that incorporated observations on ptarmigan habitat preferences. The DNA identification was performed on 176 ptarmigan bones from 13 different breeding occasions occurring in five different territories. The results indicated that the two ptarmigan species comprised at least 93% of the average gyrfalcon diet, and that rock ptarmigan was the most common prey during all 13 breeding occasions. There was a positive relationship between the relative amount of rock ptarmigan in the diet and the proportion of rock ptarmigan habitat in the territories; hence, the gyrfalcons ptarmigan utilization seemed to be density dependent. However, rock ptarmigan was found to be overrepresented in the diet, which may reflect a preference for rock ptarmigan over willow ptarmigan. The conservation implications of these findings in relation to ptarmigan hunting are discussed.
Evaluating a predator–prey interaction in the field: the interaction between beetle larvae (predator) and tadpoles (prey)
Authors: Rubbo M. J. , Mirza R. S. , Belden L. K. , Falkenbach J. J. , Storrs S. I. , Kiesecker J. M.
Published: April 2006

The larval amphibian community of temporary pond ecosystems has served as a model for studies in community ecology, with a majority of this work being conducted in mesocosms. Recent research has suggested that mesocosms may overestimate ecological effects; therefore, experimental studies conducted under field conditions are required to gauge the results of mesocosm studies. To assess a species interaction under more natural conditions, we conducted a series of field experiments examining the predator–prey interaction between beetle larvae (Dytiscus sp.; predator) and larval wood frogs Rana sylvatica (prey) in central Pennsylvania, USA. Quantitative sampling of woodland ponds indicated that beetle larvae of the genus Dytiscus were the most common predator of tadpoles. In a field enclosure experiment, dytiscids were effective predators of tadpoles in the pond environment. Moreover, tadpoles avoided areas in a pond containing caged dytiscids, demonstrating that tadpoles recognize the chemical stimuli of predators in complex environments. The results of this study are consistent with data from prior laboratory and mesocosm studies and suggest that these venues can produce reliable interpretations of predator–prey dynamics in this community.
Habitat use, home range and foraging preferences of the coati Nasua nasua in a pluvial tropical Atlantic forest area
Authors: Beisiegel B. M. , Mantovani W.
Published: April 2006

Coatis (genus Nasua) occupy a large range of forested habitats. The aim of this study was to describe the use of habitat by Nasua nasua in a continuous pluvial tropical Atlantic forest area, the Carlos Botelho State Park (CBSP) in south‐eastern Brazil. Use of space by N. nasua in the CBSP was characterized by an average home range area for one group of 445 ha by the minimum convex polygon method and 544 ha by the fixed kernel method, which was used across 2 months; the use of trees for foraging and travelling was superior to that reported for N. nasua and Nasua narica until now, being higher in the drier season. The home range of three coati groups shifted during the 3 years of this study; the home range of one habituated group changed by 91%. The proportion of ground foraging increased with the higher availability of soil invertebrates during the rainy season, but cannot be explained solely on the basis of resource availability.
Policies for the prevention of cigarette consumption: the case of Spain
Authors: Nicolás Ángel López , Domínguez Jaime Pinilla
Published: April 2006

This paper describes the causes that generate the relatively high – among comparable OECD countries – prevalence of tobacco consumption in Spain. It evaluates the current policy interventions geared towards reducing incidence and prevalence. It argues that, despite a recent major breakthrough in legislation on advertising and consumption in public places, one of the major shortcomings of current policies is the lack of an effective fiscal policy. This lack of effectiveness is explained by some idiosyncrasies of the Spanish cigarette market that call for specific measures.
Working with risky consumers: multi‐professional care for substance‐using pregnant women
Authors: Forbes Jane , Lyon Phil
Published: April 2006

Substance use is increasingly common in many countries. Consumption and lifestyles associated with consumption often involve a number of specific health and legal risks for users. For pregnant women, the risks extend to the health and care of their unborn children. A multi‐professional approach to the management of substance use in pregnancy is recommended as best practice but, as with all strategies, effectiveness depends on the way that professional workers implement policy. This study evaluated evidence of multi‐professional working within local maternity services in and around a Scottish city by (a) collating and analysing data from the maternity records of 163 substance‐using women, who delivered between January 2001 and December 2003; and (b) conducting a questionnaire survey in 2004 with 120 midwives and neonatal nurses for their views on maternity care for substance‐using women and their babies. Despite the importance placed on multi‐professional working by midwives and neonatal nurses, maternity records indicated operational inconsistencies with implementation in some cases and not in others. Policy was not yet to be seen embedded in everyday practice.
Enacting risk reduction: an examination of the volitional stages of smoking cessation within Scotland
Authors: Thomson Jennifer A. , Hassan Louise M. , Shiu Edward M.K. , Shaw Deirdre
Published: April 2006

This study examines an extended version of the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) in the context of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) as an aid to smoking cessation. An attempt is made to address the intention–behaviour gap identified in the literature by specifically focusing on the role and interrelationships of volitional stages, namely intention, planning and anticipated effort. A convenience sample of 207 female smokers, aged 16–36, provided information about their views, attitudes and volitional behaviour regarding the use of NRT as an aid to smoking cessation. Results of this study show the TPB to be pertinent, accounting for 41% of the variance in intention to use NRT as an aid to smoking cessation. Furthermore, behavioural intention is found to mediate the relationship between the TPB antecedents (attitude, subjective norm and perceived behavioural control) and each of the two volitional elements, planning and anticipated effort. The implications of these findings are discussed.
Reconceptualizing risk perception: perceiving Majority World citizens at risk from ‘Northern’ consumption
Authors: McGregor Sue L.T.
Published: April 2006

The premise of this paper is that the consumption behaviour of ‘Northern’ citizens places Majority World citizens at great risk. A theoretical evolution suggested in this paper is the extension of the notion of risky consumption to include the impact of consumption on the human security of others. Until people can envision that their consumption behaviour places others at risk of exposure to harm, they will not see the need to perceive, assess and manage the risk. The paper tenders a preliminary reconceptualization of risk perception, using the conventional consumer behaviour model constructs of personal, distribution channel and situational factors. From this new perspective, instead of judging whether the good or service is risky for a ‘Northern’ citizen to consume, risk perception scholars would examine people's perceptions of whether their consumption places fellow citizens at risk, the people labouring and producing the goods and services.
Consumer sensitivity to changes in tax policy on consumption of alcohol
Authors: Smith David E. , Mitry Darryl J.
Published: April 2006

Marketers and economists have followed the consumption patterns of alcoholic beverages for many years. Public officials have studied the negative effects of consuming alcohol and have advocated a variety of measures to curtail consumption. Previous studies have also measured the price elasticity. This comparative study is based on a 40‐year analysis, and compares the consumption patterns for beer, spirits and wine in three Nordic countries. Although the cultural context of Denmark, Norway and Sweden are similar, nevertheless significant differences in the patterns of consumption and prices for alcoholic beverages have been evidenced overtime. A comparison of the per capita drinking patterns and the taxation effectiveness are presented. Even though the elasticities varied, the data indicate relative sensitivity to price changes and a decline in spirits consumption as well as switching effects to lower alcohol‐content beverages.
Use of tobacco retailer inspections to reduce tobacco sales to youth: do inspections increase retailer compliance?
Authors: Tangirala Murali K. , McKyer E. Lisako J. , Goetze Desiree D. , McCarthy‐Jean JoBeth
Published: April 2006

Public health efforts to prevent tobacco use among young people have typically attempted to change individual behaviour. More recently, it has become evident that macro‐level behaviour change strategies which impact on the wider social environment are more effective in changing behaviour. In most states, retailer compliance laws restrict the sale and distribution of tobacco products to minor consumers. Indiana's Tobacco Retailer Inspection Program (TRIP), a state government programme, was established to put environmental controls in place by restricting youth access to tobacco products. TRIP involved conducting random, unannounced tobacco retailer outlet inspections, with violators being fined, and compliant retailers rewarded. This study examines the associations among retailer inspections, retailer compliance and access to tobacco by youthful consumers. Inspection data from 2001 to 2003 were analysed using chi‐square statistics and analysis of variance. Findings indicate that randomly selected retail outlet inspections are associated with increased sales restrictions to youth. The researchers conclude that strong tobacco sales regulations and enforcement will reduce illegal sales of tobacco products to minors.
The metabolism of 14C‐glucose by neurons and astrocytes in brain subregions following focal cerebral ischemia in rats
Authors: Thoren Anna E. , Helps Stephen C. , Nilsson Michael , Sims Neil R.
Published: April 2006

To provide insights into the effects of temporary focal ischemia on the function of neurons and astrocytes in vivo, we measured the incorporation of radiolabel from [U‐14C]glucose into both glutamate and glutamine in brain subregions at 1 h of reperfusion following occlusion of the middle cerebral artery for 2 or 3 h. Under the experimental conditions used, 14C‐glutamate is mainly produced in neurons whereas 14C‐glutamine is generated in astrocytes from 14C‐glutamate of both neuronal and astrocytic origin. Radiolabel incorporation into both amino acids was greatly decreased. The change in 14C‐glutamate accumulation provides strong evidence for substantial reductions in neuronal glucose metabolism. The resulting decrease in delivery of 14C‐glutamate from the neurons to astrocytes was probably also the major contributor to the change in 14C‐glutamine content. These alterations probably result in part from a marked depression of glycolytic activity in the neurons, as suggested by previous studies assessing deoxyglucose utilization. Alterations in 14C‐glucose metabolism were not restricted to tissue that would subsequently become infarcted. Thus, these changes did not inevitably lead to death of the affected cells. The ATP : ADP ratio and phosphocreatine content were essentially preserved during recirculation following 2 h of ischemia and showed at most only moderate losses in some subregions following 3 h of ischemia. This retention of energy reserves despite the decreases in 14C‐glucose metabolism in neurons suggests that energy needs were substantially reduced in the post‐ischemic brain. Marked increases in tissue lactate accumulation during recirculation, particularly following 3 h of ischemia, provided evidence that impaired pyruvate oxidation probably also contributed to the altered 14C‐glucose metabolism. These findings indicate the presence of complex changes in energy metabolism that are likely to greatly influence the responses of neurons and astrocytes to temporary focal ischemia.
NAAG peptidase inhibitor increases dialysate NAAG and reduces glutamate, aspartate and GABA levels in the dorsal hippocampus following fluid percussion injury in the rat
Authors: Zhong Chunlong , Zhao Xueren , Van Ken C. , Bzdega Tomasz , Smyth Aoife , Zhou Jia , Kozikowski Alan P. , Jiang Jiyao , O'Connor William T. , Berman Robert F. , Neale Joseph H. , Lyeth Bruce G.
Published: April 2006

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) produces a rapid and excessive elevation in extracellular glutamate that induces excitotoxic brain cell death. The peptide neurotransmitter N‐acetylaspartylglutamate (NAAG) is reported to suppress neurotransmitter release through selective activation of presynaptic group II metabotropic glutamate receptors. Therefore, strategies to elevate levels of NAAG following brain injury could reduce excessive glutamate release associated with TBI. We hypothesized that the NAAG peptidase inhibitor, ZJ‐43 would elevate extracellular NAAG levels and reduce extracellular levels of amino acid neurotransmitters following TBI by a group II metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR)‐mediated mechanism. Dialysate levels of NAAG, glutamate, aspartate and GABA from the dorsal hippocampus were elevated after TBI as measured by in vivo microdialysis. Dialysate levels of NAAG were higher and remained elevated in the ZJ‐43 treated group (50 mg/kg, i.p.) compared with control. ZJ‐43 treatment also reduced the rise of dialysate glutamate, aspartate, and GABA levels. Co‐administration of the group II mGluR antagonist, LY341495 (1 mg/kg, i.p.) partially blocked the effects of ZJ‐43 on dialysate glutamate and GABA, suggesting that NAAG effects are mediated through mGluR activation. The results are consistent with the hypothesis that inhibition of NAAG peptidase may reduce excitotoxic events associated with TBI.
Hyperdopaminergia and altered locomotor activity in GABAB1‐deficient mice
Authors: Vacher Claire‐Marie , Gassmann Martin , Desrayaud Sandrine , Challet Etienne , Bradaia Amyaouch , Hoyer Daniel , Waldmeier Peter , Kaupmann Klemens , Pévet Paul , Bettler Bernhard
Published: April 2006

mice, which are devoid of functional GABAB receptors, consistently exhibit marked hyperlocomotion when exposed to a novel environment. Telemetry recordings now revealed that, in a familiar environment, mice display an altered pattern of circadian activity but no hyperlocomotion. This indicates that hyperlocomotion is only triggered when mice are aroused by novelty. In microdialysis experiments, mice exhibited a 2‐fold increased extracellular level of dopamine in the striatum. Following d‐amphetamine administration, mice released less dopamine than wild‐type mice, indicative of a reduced cytoplasmic dopamine pool. The hyperdopaminergic state of mice is accompanied by molecular changes, including reduced levels of tyrosine hydroxylase mRNA, D1 receptor binding‐sites and Ser40 phosphorylation of tyrosine hydroxylase. Tyrosine hydroxylase activity, tissue dopamine content and dopamine metabolism do not appear to be measurably altered. Pharmacological and electrophysiological experiments support that the hyperdopaminergic state of mice is not severe enough to inactivate dopamine D2 receptors and to disrupt D2‐mediated feedback inhibition of tyrosine hydroxylase activity. The data support that loss of GABAB activity results in a sustained moderate hyperdopaminergic state, which is phenotypically revealed by contextual hyperlocomotor activity. Importantly, the presence of an inhibitory GABA tone on the dopaminergic system mediated by GABAB receptors provides an opportunity for therapeutic intervention.