bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuromodulatory effects of gonadotropin‐releasing hormone on retinotectal synaptic transmission in the optic tectum of rainbow trout
Authors: Kinoshita Masae , Kobayashi Suguru , Urano Akihisa , Ito Etsuro
Published: January 2007

Gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) is a hypophysiotropic decapeptide that stimulates the release of gonadotropins from the pituitary. In addition, there are extra‐hypothalamic GnRH neurons that project to all regions of the brain and whose function remains unknown. Here, we investigated the effects of GnRH on retinotectal synaptic transmission, the synapses of which are formed between retinal fibers and tectal periventricular neurons that express GnRH receptor mRNA. We used rainbow trout as our study model. The excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs), which were evoked by electrical stimulation of the retinal fibers and recorded in periventricular neurons, were suppressed by antagonists of ionotropic glutamate receptors. EPSCs were increased by application of each of two types of GnRH (GnRH2 and GnRH3) in the trout tectum. Such facilitation lasted for at least 10 min after application of the GnRH. To our knowledge, this is the first report of GnRH modulating conventional synaptic transmission in the brain, suggesting that tectal GnRH enhances tectal sensitivity for retinal inputs. Furthermore, such long‐lasting facilitation might occur across all the brain regions innervated by GnRH neurons, and GnRH might simultaneously switch neuronal activities in the brain regions relevant to reproductive behaviors.
Elevated cholesteryl ester transfer protein concentration is associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular disease in women, but not in men, with Type 2 diabetes: the Hoorn Study
Authors: Alssema M. , Dekker J. M. , Kuivenhoven J. A. , Nijpels G. , Teerlink T. , Scheffer P. G. , Diamant M. , Stehouwer C. D. A. , Bouter L. M. , Heine R. J.
Published: January 2007

Aims  Cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) exchanges neutral lipids between lipoproteins. As the role of CETP in the atherogenic process is still not fully clarified, we studied the association of CETP concentration with the prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and with intima‐media thickness of the carotid artery (IMT) in subjects with normal glucose tolerance (NGT), impaird fasting glucose and/or impaired glucose tolerance (IFG/IGT) and Type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods  Subjects (n = 566) were recruited from the 2000–2001 follow‐up examination of the Hoorn study. CETP concentration was determined by immunoassay. CVD was defined as self‐reported history of arterial surgery, cerebral vascular event, amputation, angina, claudication, possible infarction, measured ankle‐brachial index < 0.90 or ECG abnormalities. The right common carotid artery IMT was measured by ultrasound at 10 mm proximal to the carotid bulb.

Results  In men, CETP concentration was not associated with CVD, irrespective of glucose tolerance status. In women with NGT or IGT, there was also no relationship. However, in women with Type 2 diabetes, the risk of CVD was increased in those with high CETP concentration [odds ratio = 3.34 (1.56; 7.14)]. No statistically significant association was found between CETP concentration and IMT in the entire cohort.

Conclusions  In an elderly Caucasian population, associations of CETP concentration with CVD were dependent on glucose tolerance status and gender. The finding that high CETP concentration was strongly associated with increased prevalence of CVD in women with Type 2 diabetes warrants further investigation.
The prevalence of retinopathy in impaired glucose tolerance and recent‐onset diabetes in the Diabetes Prevention Program
Authors:   Diabetes Prevention Program Research Group
Published: January 2007

Aims  Retinopathy is considered the complication most closely associated with and characteristic of diabetes mellitus. Hyperglycaemia below levels diagnostic of diabetes, so called pre‐diabetes, is associated with a low prevalence of ‘diabetic’ retinopathy. However, few longitudinal studies of non‐diabetic populations have performed repeated measures of glycaemia and screened for retinopathy to determine its occurrence in the non‐diabetic population and the onset of retinopathy in new‐onset diabetic patients. We determined the prevalence of retinopathy characteristically seen in diabetes in persons with impaired glucose tolerance and in patients with new‐onset diabetes of known duration in the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) cohort.

Methods  The DPP recruited persons with elevated fasting glucose (5.3–6.9 mmol/l) and impaired glucose tolerance, and no history of diagnosed diabetes, other than gestational diabetes not persisting after pregnancy. Seven‐field, stereoscopic fundus photography was completed a mean of 3.1 years after the development of diabetes in 594 of 878 participants who had developed diabetes during the DPP, and in a random sample of 302 participants who remained non‐diabetic.

Results  Retinopathy consistent with diabetic retinopathy was detected in 12.6 and 7.9% of the diabetic and non‐diabetic participants, respectively (P = 0.03, comparing prevalence in the two groups). Systolic blood pressure and HbA1c were higher at baseline in the diabetic participants who had retinopathy compared with the diabetic participants without retinopathy.

Conclusions  Retinopathy characteristic of diabetes is present in persons with elevated fasting glucose and impaired glucose tolerance and no known history of diabetes. The prevalence of retinopathy is significantly higher in persons who develop diabetes, even within 3 years of diagnosis.
History of major depressive disorder and diabetes outcomes in diet‐ and tablet‐treated post‐menopausal women: a case control study
Authors: Wagner J. A. , Tennen H.
Published: January 2007

Aims  Little is known about the long‐term associations between remitted major depressive disorder (MDD) and clinical diabetes outcomes. This study investigated associations between a remote history of fully remitted MDD and (i) glycaemic control, (ii) diabetes symptoms, and (iii) physical and emotional functioning in post‐menopausal women with Type 2 diabetes (T2DM).

Methods  Forty‐four post‐menopausal women with diet‐ or tablet‐treated T2DM participated. Twenty‐three had never experienced depression and 21 had a history of MDD. All participants had been free of MDD and antidepressant treatment for ≥ 1 year.

Results  Compared with their never‐depressed counterparts, women with a history of MDD had significantly higher HbA1c (7.0 vs. 6.5%), more diabetes symptoms, and worse emotional functioning, after controlling for confounding variables. Differences in HbA1c and diabetes symptoms were not accounted for by the higher current subclinical depressive symptoms observed in the previously depressed group. Differences in emotional functioning were accounted for by current subclinical depressive symptoms.

Conclusions  Most health‐care providers overlook fully remitted depression. However, previously depressed patients, who outnumber currently depressed patients, may still have poorer glycaemic control than never‐depressed patients.
Diabetes mellitus, hypertension and medial temporal lobe atrophy: the LADIS study
Authors: Korf E. S. C. , Van Straaten E. C. W. , De Leeuw F.‐E. , Van Der Flier W. M. , Barkhof F. , Pantoni L. , Basile A. M. , Inzitari D. , Erkinjuntti T. , Wahlund L.‐O. , Rostrup E. , Schmidt R. , Fazekas F. , Scheltens P. ,   on behalf of the LADIS Study Group
Published: January 2007

Hypothesis  Based on recent findings on the association between vascular risk factors and hippocampal atrophy, we hypothesized that hypertension and diabetes mellitus (DM) are associated with medial temporal lobe atrophy (MTA) in subjects without disability, independent of the severity of white matter hyperintensities.

Methods  In the Leukoaraiosis And DISability in the elderly (LADIS) study, we investigated the relationships between DM, hypertension, blood pressure and MTA in 582 subjects, stratified by white matter hyperintensity severity, using multinomial logistic regression. MTA was visually scored for the left and right medial temporal lobe (score 0–4), and meaned.

Results  Mean age was 73.5 years (sd 5.1), 54% was female. Of the subjects, 15% had DM, and 70% had a history of hypertension. The likelihood of having MTA score 3 was significantly higher in subjects with DM (OR 2.9; 95% CI: 1.1–7.8) compared with an MTA score of 0 (no atrophy). The odds ratio for MTA score 2 was not significantly increased (OR 1.8; CI: 0.9–4). Systolic and diastolic blood pressure and a history of hypertension were not associated with MTA. There was no interaction between DM and hypertension. Stratification on white matter hyperintensities (WMH) did not alter the associations.

Conclusion Our study strengthens the observation that MTA is associated with DM, independently of the amount of small vessel disease as reflected by WMH.
Pancreatic B‐cell function is altered by oxidative stress induced by acute hyperglycaemia
Authors: Miyazaki Y. , Kawano H. , Yoshida T. , Miyamoto S. , Hokamaki J. , Nagayoshi Y. , Yamabe H. , Nakamura H. , Yodoi J. , Ogawa H.
Published: January 2007

Aims  Type 2 diabetes is preceded by a symptom‐free period of impaired glucose tolerance (IGT). Pancreatic B‐cell function decreases as glucose intolerance develops. In many patients with IGT, fasting blood glucose is within normal limits and hyperglycaemia occurs only postprandially. We examined whether pancreatic B‐cell function changes during acute hyperglycaemia induced by oral glucose loading.

Methods  We calculated the insulinogenic index (I.I.) as an indicator of pancreatic B‐cell function and measured serum levels of thioredoxin, a marker of cellular redox state, and 8‐hydroxy‐2′‐deoxyguanosine (8‐OHdG), a marker of oxidative stress, during a 75‐g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) in 45 subjects [24 patients with normal glucose tolerance (NGT), 14 with IGT and seven with Type 2 diabetes].

Results  Thioredoxin levels decreased after glucose loading [66.1 ± 23.7, *59.3 ± 22.4, *49.3 ± 21.2 and *37.7 ± 18.0 ng/ml, fasting (0 min) and at 30, 60 and 120 min, respectively; *P < 0.001 vs. fasting]. In contrast, concentrations of 8‐OHdG peaked at 30 min and then gradually decreased (0.402 ± 0.123, *0.440 ± 0.120, †0.362 ± 0.119 and †0.355 ± 0.131 ng/ml, *P < 0.05 vs. fasting, †P < 0.01 vs. 30 min). The insulinogenic index correlated with the change in thioredoxin levels (r = 0.34, P < 0.05). However, there was no relationship with the change in 8‐OHdG levels from 0 to 30 min.

Conclusions  Hyperglycaemia in response to oral glucose impairs pancreatic B‐cell function with decreasing thioredoxin levels. The augmented oxidative stress induced by hyperglycaemia may affect the cellular redox state. These findings strongly suggest that repeated postprandial hyperglycaemia may play an important role in the development and progression of diabetes mellitus.
Prevalence of metabolic syndrome in adolescents from a north Indian population
Authors: Singh R. , Bhansali A. , Sialy R. , Aggarwal A.
Published: January 2007

Aims  To estimate the prevalence and distribution of the metabolic syndrome (MS) in adolescents attending school in the north Indian city of Chandigarh.

Research design and methods  At total of 1083 adolescents attending school (aged 12–17 years) participated in a community‐based cross‐sectional survey. Anthropometric examination included height, weight, body mass index, waist circumference, hip circumference, waist–hip ratio and blood pressure measurement. A fasting blood sample was taken for measurement of glucose, insulin and lipid profile. Socio‐demographic characteristics were investigated using a questionnaire. The metabolic syndrome was determined by the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III definition modified for age.

Results  The overall prevalence of MS in adolescents was 4.2%. However, the prevalence rose to 5.8% when the fasting plasma glucose cut‐off was lowered to 5.5 mmol/l. There was no gender difference in the distribution of MS. When stratified by body mass index (BMI), 5.5% adolescents were overweight (BMI ≥ 95th percentile), while 4% were at risk for overweight (BMI between 85th and 95th percentile). Of the overweight adolescents, 36.6% met the criteria for MS, while 11.5% at risk for overweight and only 1.9% of the normal population had MS (P < 0.0001). Low high‐density lipoprotein was the most common and abdominal obesity the least common constituent of MS. There was a significant difference (P < 0.0001) between the prevalence of MS adolescents from low to high socio‐economic strata.

Conclusions  A substantial number (4.2%) of north Indian adolescents and 36.6% of overweight adolescents had MS. This poses a serious threat to the current and future health of these young people.
Incidence of Type 2 diabetes in England and its association with baseline impaired fasting glucose: The Ely study 1990–2000
Authors: Forouhi N. G. , Luan J. , Hennings S. , Wareham N. J.
Published: January 2007

Aim  To determine the incidence of Type 2 diabetes and to examine the effect of different cut‐points for impaired fasting glucose (IFG) on diabetes incidence.

Methods  Population‐based longitudinal study (1990–2000) with clinical, anthropometric and biochemical measurements, including an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), in 1040 non‐diabetic adults aged 40–69 years at baseline. Baseline glucose status was defined as normoglycaemia < 5.6, IFG‐lower 5.6–6.0 and IFG‐original 6.1–6.9 mmol/l. The all‐IFG group included fasting glucose values of 5.6–6.9 mmol/l.

Results  The 10‐year cumulative incidence of diabetes was 7.3 per 1000 person‐years. Diabetes incidence was 2.4 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.2, 4.8], 6.2 (4.0, 9.8) and 17.5 (12.5, 24.5) per 1000 person‐years in those with normoglycaemia, IFG‐lower and IFG‐original, respectively. Compared with normoglycaemia, the age/sex‐adjusted risk [hazard ratio (HR) and 95% CI] for incident diabetes was greatest in the IFG‐original category (HR 6.9; 3.1, 15.2) and increased to a lesser degree in the IFG‐lower (HR 2.5; 1.1, 5.7) and all‐IFG categories (HR 4.1; 1.9, 8.7). When adjusted for confounding factors, the magnitude and direction of associations persisted, with HR 1.9, 4.4 and 2.9, for the categories IFG‐lower, IFG‐original and all‐IFG, respectively.

Conclusions  Diabetes incidence is more strongly related to IFG defined as fasting glucose between 6.1 and 6.9 mmol/l than to the lower category of 5.6–6.0 mmol/l, or entire range of 5.6–6.9 mmol/l. Future studies should examine the association of IFG with cardiovascular outcomes, but for diabetes risk our study supports the use of the IFG cut‐point at 6.1 mmol/l.
The Introduction of the Euro and Derivative Use in French Firms
Authors: Capstaff John , Marshall Andrew , Hutton Julie
Published: January 2007

In January 1999 several European countries adopted a common currency, the “euro”. This important economic event provided an opportunity to examine the determinants of risk management in an environment where exposure to foreign exchange (FX) risk was considerably reduced. For a sample of French firms we found the decline in the use of FX derivatives was greater for firms with substantial sales within the euro zone and less for firms in industries that still had significant imports from outside the euro zone. The focus on derivatives adds to existing research, as it is a more explicit indicator of a reduction in the resources devoted to hedging. The reduction in hedging was not in direct proportion to the reduction in FX exposure, implying that euro risk was hedged more intensely than French franc risk in the sample of French firms over the chosen years.
‘GM‐gene‐deletor’: fused loxP‐FRT recognition sequences dramatically improve the efficiency of FLP or CRE recombinase on transgene excision from pollen and seed of tobacco plants
Authors: Luo Keming , Duan Hui , Zhao Degang , Zheng Xuelian , Deng Wei , Chen Yongqin , Stewart C. Neal , McAvoy Richard , Jiang Xiangning , Wu Yanhong , He Aigong , Pei Yan , Li Yi
Published: January 2007

Pollen‐ and seed‐mediated transgene flow is a concern in plant biotechnology. We report here a highly efficient ‘genetically modified (GM)‐gene‐deletor’ system to remove all functional transgenes from pollen, seed or both. With the three pollen‐ and/or seed‐specific gene promoters tested, the phage CRE/loxP or yeast FLP/FRT system alone was inefficient in excising transgenes from tobacco pollen and/or seed, with no transgenic event having 100% efficiency. When loxP‐FRT fusion sequences were used as recognition sites, simultaneous expression of both FLP and CRE reduced the average excision efficiency, but the expression of FLP or CRE alone increased the average excision efficiency, with many transgenic events being 100% efficient based on more than 25 000 T1 progeny examined per event. The ‘GM‐gene‐deletor’ reported here may be used to produce ‘non‐transgenic’ pollen and/or seed from transgenic plants and to provide a bioconfinement tool for transgenic crops and perennials, with special applicability towards vegetatively propagated plants and trees.
JOINING EUROPEAN MONETARY UNION: A REAL OPTIONS PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Strobel Frank
Published: January 2007

We examine the real option implicit in countries' decisions on whether to join a monetary union when future benefits of this move are uncertain. Our theoretical model is calibrated for the current Euro‐12 area and EU‐15 outs, proxying policymakers' inflation preferences with unemployment rates, debt‐to‐GDP and potential‐to‐actual‐GDP ratios. The Euro‐12 area is generally ready or close to wanting to expand, whereas the EU‐15 outs are unready to make that move at present and have widely varying probabilities of wanting to do so in the future, depending on the measure used.
ON THE INTENT TO MAKE CRAMP: AN INTERPRETATION OF VITREOUS SEAWEED CREMATION ‘WASTE’ FROM PREHISTORIC BURIAL SITES IN ORKNEY, SCOTLAND
Authors: PHOTOS‐JONES EFFIE , SMITH BEVERLEY BALLIN , HALL ALLAN J. , JONES RICHARD E.
Published: January 2007

Summary.  Vitreous slag‐like material, known as ‘cramp’, from prehistoric cremation burial sites in Orkney is, apart from cremated bone, one of the recurrent remains found within or around Bronze Age burials. Although the suggestion that cramp was formed by the fusing of sand attached to dry seaweed while it was being burnt was first proposed in the 1930s, there has never been a consideration of seaweed's contribution to cremation other than as a potential fuel. Scientific analyses presented in this paper corroborate the use of seaweed. It is suggested that cramp may have been deliberately produced to act as an efficient collector of shattered bone which otherwise could have been lost during the cremation. Far from being a ‘waste’, cramp could well have been another form of ‘human‐remains’ in its own right.
THE LOCATION OF THE TREASURY OF ATREUS
Authors: MASON DAVID J.
Published: January 2007

Summary.  The Treasury of Atreus, the largest and most impressive of the nine tholos tombs found at Mycenae, stands by itself at the southern edge of a bowl in the east slope of the Panagia ridge. This paper argues that the tomb was constructed on this particular spot so that it would be seen from the trackways/roads that led to Mycenae from the east, south‐east and south‐west and from the main pathway to the palace. The view of the acropolis hill and Mt. Profitis Ilias from the space occupied by the earthen mound above the tholos also appears to have influenced the choice of location. It is suggested that the position of the Treasury of Atreus was, like the tomb itself, a political statement, calculated to show that the ruler who built the tomb succeeded in extending the territory of Mycenae across the central Argolid.
ON THE ORIGIN OF STAMPED AMPHORAE FROM THRACE (BULGARIA)
Authors: KULEFF IVELIN , STOYANOV TOTKO , PERNICKA ERNST
Published: January 2007

Summary.  The contents of 25 elements in 74 stamped (and some unstamped) amphora finds from nine Thracian sites in Bulgaria dated to the fifth–third century BC have been determined using INAA. The samples investigated were grouped by cluster analysis on the basis of the similarity in their chemical composition. The chemical profiles of the 16 clusters formed were determined and common production centres for some of the stamped amphorae are identified.
Dismissal Protection and Worker Flows in Small Establishments
Authors: BAUER THOMAS K. , BENDER STEFAN , BONIN HOLGER
Published: January 2007

Based on a large employer–employee matched data‐set, the paper investigates the effects of variable enforcement of German dismissal protection legislation on the employment dynamics in small establishments. Specifically, using a difference‐in‐differences approach, we study the effect of changes in the threshold scale exempting small establishments from dismissal protection provisions on worker flows. In contrast to the predictions of the theory, our results indicate that there are no statistically significant effects of dismissal protection legislation on worker turnover.
Are the Welfare Losses from Imperfect Targeting Important?
Authors: SKOUFIAS EMMANUEL , COADY DAVID P.
Published: January 2007

We quantify and compare the size of the welfare losses arising from the use of alternative ‘imperfect’ welfare indicators as substitutes for the conventionally preferred consumption indicator. We find that the size of the welfare losses associated with different indicators varies considerably. An asset‐based index and the share of food as targeting indicators were found to have the highest welfare losses relative to all other targeting indicators examined. Our preferred welfare index implies that the losses from the two best targeting indicators (i.e. reported expenditures and reported income) are statistically significant but very low (less than 5%).
Pericranial Tenderness is Not Related to Nummular Headache
Authors: Fernández-de-las-Peñas C , Cuadrado ML , Barriga FJ , Pareja JA
Published: January 2007

The aim of the present study was to investigate whether nummular headache (NH) patients show increased pericranial tenderness in relation to healthy subjects, and to compare pericranial tenderness between both NH and chronic tension-type headache (CTTH) patients. Three tenderness (total, cephalic and neck) scores were objectively and blinded assessed in 10 NH patients, 10 CTTH subjects and 10 healthy matched controls. No significant differences were found in any tenderness score between the symptomatic and non-symptomatic sides in NH, or between right and left sides in either CTTH or control groups. All tenderness scores were significantly greater in CTTH patients compared with both NH patients and controls ( P < 0.001), but not significantly different between NH patients and controls. Therefore, NH patients had lower tenderness than patients with CTTH and did not show increased tenderness when compared with healthy subjects. In addition, tenderness in NH patients was quite symmetrical between both the symptomatic and the non-symptomatic sides. The absence of increased pericranial tenderness could be clinically useful in distinguishing NH from CTTH. Current findings expand the evidence supporting the notion that NH is a non-generalized and rather limited disorder, marking the presence of a well-delimited painful zone.
An Adenosine A2A Receptor Gene Haplotype is Associated with Migraine With Aura
Authors: Hohoff C , Marziniak M , Lesch K-P , Deckert J , Sommer C , Mössner R
Published: January 2007

The adenosine A2A receptor (A2AR) facilitates effects of calcitonin gene-related peptide and vasoactive intestinal peptide, two important neuropeptides in migraine pathophysiology, and is the molecular target of caffeine, which is used in migraine treatment. We therefore determined whether A2AR gene variation might influence migraine susceptibility Migraine patients ( n = 265) with or without aura and migraine-free controls ( n = 154) were assessed and genotyped for six genetic variants spanning the A2AR gene. A six-marker haplotype was more frequent in migraine patients with aura ( P < 0.01) but not in patients without aura, compared with the control group. This indicates that A2AR gene variation may contribute to the pathogenesis of migraine with aura.
Sumatriptan and Corneal Reflexes in Headache-Free Migraine Patients: A Randomized and Placebo-Controlled Crossover Study
Authors: Busch V , Kaube S , Schulte-Mattler W , Kaube H , May A
Published: January 2007

A temporary sensitization of central trigeminal neurones in migraine patients during acute attacks has been described in previous studies using the electrically evoked nociceptive blink reflex. The cornea is innervated by small myelinated A-delta and unmyelinated C-fibres only. Stimulation with air puffs activates peripheral nociceptors and allows the investigation of peripheral trigeminal nerve structures. Our objective was to investigate whether corneal reflex examinations with air puff stimulation detect abnormalities in migraineurs during their pain-free interval and if the corneal reflex may be modulated by the administration of an oral triptan. After validation of the nociceptive air puff technique by investigating the corneal reflexes before and after a local anaesthesia of the cornea, we recorded corneal reflexes in 25 migraineurs during their pain-free period and 25 healthy controls before and after the oral administration of 100 mg sumatriptan in a randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover study.

Baseline response areas under the curve (AUCs) and latencies of the R2 components of the corneal reflexes did not show any significant differences between patients and controls. Patients did not show any significant differences regarding their headache and non-headache side. The use of an oral triptan had no significant influence on latencies or AUCs in both patients and controls. Our data suggest that there is no facilitation of the trigeminal system in the headache-free interval among patients with migraine. The stable corneal reflexes after the oral administration of 100 mg sumatriptan suggest that there was no inhibition of the trigeminal system, both in patients during their headache-free period and in healthy controls.
Abnormalities of Na/K ATPase in Migraine With Aura
Authors: Scarrone S , Podestà M , Cupello A , Finocchi C , Frassoni F , Gandolfo C , Balestrino M
Published: January 2007

It has been previously shown from our laboratory that abnormal functioning of Na/K ATPase can cause spreading depression, the likely mechanism of migraine aura. We used lymphocytes to investigate whether or not membrane Na/K ATPase is altered in migraine with aura patients. Lymphocytes were prepared from such patients, aged 20-45 years, and from age-matched healthy volunteers (controls). The binding of 3H- ouabain was studied using increasing concentrations (0.5-25 nM) of this radioligand, specific for Na/K-ATPase. We studied 19 migraine with aura patients and 22 healthy volunteers, matched for age and sex. Bmax (fmol/mg protein) and KD (nM) were not different between patients and controls. However, their ratio (Bmax/KD) was higher in patients than in controls. Bmax was (mean ± SD) 270 ± 110 fmol/mg protein in controls, and 360 ± 230 in migraine with aura patients ( P = 0.10, t-test). KD was (mean ± SD) 2.8 ± 1.5 nM in controls, and 2.9 ± 3.2 nM in migraine with aura patients ( P = 0.88, t-test). Bmax/KD was (mean ± SD) 120 ± 78 in controls, and 210 ± 190 in migraine patients ( P = 0.046, t-test). Moreover, no control patient had a Bmax/KD ratio greater than 398, while three migraine patients had ratios of 417, 572 and 722, respectively. Ouabain binding is affected by Na/K ATPase structure (KD) and expression (Bmax). While these parameters were not altered in migraine with aura patients, the difference in their ratio suggests an imbalance between the enzyme's ouabain affinity and its expression, with higher-affinity subtypes being more expressed than normal. Moreover, single patients had values quite different from the control population. Our data suggest that (i) ouabain binding to lymphocyte membranes may be a useful tool in the diagnosis of migraine with aura and (ii) Na/K ATPase abnormalities may be involved in migraine aura.
Primary and Secondary Red Ear Syndrome: Implications for Treatment
Authors: Boulton P , Purdy RA , Bosch EP , Dodick DW
Published: January 2007

Approximately 57 patients with red ear syndrome have been reported in the literature since it was initially described in 1994. The clinical phenotype therefore continues to be defined and no consistent treatment response has been described. We report three new cases of red ear syndrome and suggest that the disorder may exist as a primary trigeminal or cervical autonomic cephalalgia, coexist with other rare trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias, or may be secondary. The pathogenesis in these different circumstances may be distinct, the triggers specific and, when secondary, the disorder may be more resistant to treatment.
Occipital Nerve Stimulation for Chronic Headache—Long-Term Safety and Efficacy
Authors: Schwedt TJ , Dodick DW , Hentz J , Trentman TL , Zimmerman RS
Published: January 2007

The aim of this study was to examine the safety and efficacy of occipital nerve stimulation for medically intractable headache. Electrical stimulation of large sensory afferents has an antinociceptive effect. Occipital nerve stimulation may be effective for the treatment of medically intractable headache. Retrospective analysis was performed of 15 patients with medically refractory headache who underwent implantation of an occipital nerve stimulator. Pre- and postimplant data regarding headache frequency, severity, disability, depression and post-stimulator complications were collected. Twelve patients were female and three male. Ages ranged from 21 to 52 years (mean 39 years). Eight patients had chronic migraine, three chronic cluster, two hemicrania continua and two had post-traumatic headache. Eight patients underwent bilateral and seven had unilateral lead placement. Patients were measured after 5-42 months (mean 19). All six mean headache measures improved significantly from baseline ( P < 0.03). Headache frequency per 90 days improved by 25 days from a baseline of 89 days; headache severity (0-10) improved 2.4 points from a baseline of 7.1 points; MIDAS disability improved 70 points from a baseline of 179 points; HIT-6 scores improved 11 points from a baseline of 71 points; BDI-II improved eight points from a baseline of 20 points; and the mean subjective percent change in pain was 52%. Most patients (60%) required lead revision within 1 year. One patient required generator revision. Occipital nerve stimulation may be effective in some patients with intractable headache. Surgical revisions may be commonly required. Safety and efficacy results from prospective, randomized, sham-controlled studies in patients with medically refractory headache are needed.
Inflammation induces mitochondrial dysfunction and dopaminergic neurodegeneration in the nigrostriatal system
Authors: Hunter Randy L. , Dragicevic Natasa , Seifert Kristen , Choi Dong Young , Liu Mei , Kim Hyoung‐Chun , Cass Wayne A. , Sullivan Patrick G. , Bing Guoying
Published: January 2007

Evidence suggests that chronic inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and oxidative stress play significant and perhaps synergistic roles in Parkinson’s disease (PD), where the primary pathology is significant loss of the dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra. The use of anti‐inflammatory drugs for PD treatment has been proposed, and inhibition of cyclo‐oxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) or activation of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma (PPAR‐γ) yields neuroprotection in MPTP‐induced PD. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induces inflammation‐driven dopaminergic neurodegeneration. We tested the hypothesis that celecoxib (Celebrex, COX‐2 inhibitor) or pioglitazone (Actos, PPAR‐γ agonist) will reduce the LPS‐induced inflammatory response, spare mitochondrial bioenergetics, and improve nigral dopaminergic neuronal survival. Rats were treated with vehicle, celecoxib, or pioglitazone and were intrastriatally injected with LPS. Inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, decreased dopamine, and nigral dopaminergic neuronal loss were observed post‐LPS. Celecoxib and pioglitazone provided neuroprotective properties by decreasing inflammation and restoring mitochondrial function. Pioglitazone also attenuated oxidative stress and partially restored striatal dopamine as well as demonstrated dopaminergic neuroprotection and reduced nigral microglial activation. In summary, intrastriatal LPS served as a model for inflammation‐induced dopaminergic neurodegeneration, anti‐inflammatory drugs provided protective properties, and pioglitazone or celecoxib may have therapeutic potential for the treatment of neuro‐inflammation and PD.
Proteomic analysis of protein nitration in rat cerebellum: effect of biological aging
Authors: Gokulrangan Giridharan , Zaidi Asma , Michaelis Mary L. , Schöneich Christian
Published: January 2007

3‐Nitrotyrosine (3‐NT) is a useful biomarker of increasing oxidative stress and protein nitration during biological aging. The proteomic analysis of cerebellar homogenate from Fisher 344/Brown Norway (BN/F1) rats shows an age‐dependent increase in protein nitration, monitored by western‐blot analysis after two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis (2DE), mainly in the acidic region. Analysis of in‐gel digests by nanoelectrospray (NSI)‐MS/MS resulted in the identification of 16 putatively nitrated proteins. The selective isolation of nitrated proteins using immunoprecipitation, followed by SDS‐PAGE and in‐gel digest/NSI‐MS/MS analysis led to the identification of 22 putatively nitrated proteins, of which 7 were identical to those detected after 2DE. When proteins were separated by solution isoelectrofocusing and analyzed by NSI MS/MS, we obtained MS/MS spectra of 3‐NT containing peptides of four proteins – similar to ryanodine receptor 3, low density lipoprotein related receptor 2, similar to nebulin‐related anchoring protein isoform C and 2,3 cyclic nucleotide 3‐phosphodiesterase. Although the functional consequences of protein nitration for these targets are not yet known, our proteomic experiments serve as a first screen for the more targeted analysis of nitrated proteins from aging cerebellum for functional characterization.
Isolation and characterization of eight polymorphic microsatellite markers from pink conch (Strombus gigas)
Authors: ZAMORA‐BUSTILLOS R. , RODRÍGUEZ‐CANUL R. , DE LEÓN F. J. GARCÍA
Published: January 2007

Many marine organisms have pelagic larvae, and these are often important agents of dispersal. The larval phase and the multiple paternity that occur in marine gastropods such as Strombus gigas are crucial for the success of this species throughout the Caribbean Sea. To analyse these factors, we developed eight microsatellite loci specific to S. gigas. On the same set of individuals, the microsatellite loci exhibited a greater level of polymorphism than previously studied allozyme markers and thus, will permit fine‐scale analysis and larval pool studies.
Characterization of tetranucleotide microsatellites for Rio Grande cutthroat trout and rainbow trout, and their cross‐amplification in other cutthroat trout subspecies
Authors: PRITCHARD V. L. , JONES K. , METCALF J. L. , MARTIN A. P. , WILKINSON P. , COWLEY D. E.
Published: January 2007

We describe the isolation and characterization of 12 tetranucleotide microsatellites for Rio Grande cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii virginalis) and rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), and subsequently investigate their performance in Colorado River cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii pleuriticus), greenback cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii stomias) and Yellowstone cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarki bouvieri). All 12 loci are polymorphic in all subspecies of O. clarkii examined.
Budd–Chiari‐like syndrome in a dog with a chondrosarcoma of the thoracic wall
Authors: Whelan Megan F. , O'Toole Therese E. , Carlson Kimberly R. , Sutherland‐Smith James , Berg John
Published: January 2007

Objective:To describe a dog with Budd–Chiari‐like syndrome secondary to caudal vena cava compression from a thoracic wall chondrosarcoma.

Case summary:A 9‐year‐old spayed female Shetland Sheepdog cross with a recent history of non‐productive cough developed severe abdominal distension and dyspnea. Marked ascites and enlarged hepatic veins were identified with ultrasonography. At surgery, a right thoracic wall mass was found to be compressing the caudal vena cava. Fluid analysis of the ascites revealed a modified transudate with elevated protein concentration, consistent with Budd–Chiari‐like syndrome. Clinical signs resolved following thoracotomy and complete resection of the mass.

New or unique information provided:Obstruction of venous blood flow can result from compression exerted by a space‐occupying thoracic wall mass on the caudal vena cava. Clinical resolution can be achieved with return of adequate venous circulation by removal of the mass and alleviation of the external pressure.
Abdominal compartment syndrome in a dog with babesiosis
Authors: Joubert Kenneth E. , Oglesby Patricia A. , Downie Justine , Serfontein Tania
Published: January 2007

Objective: To describe a case of abdominal compartment syndrome in a dog with babesiosis.

Case summary: A 9‐year‐old female Bull Terrier presented with complicated babesiosis. Additional findings including respiratory distress, abdominal distension, and a decrease in urine output associated with an elevated abdominal pressure (23.5–25 cmH2O) led to a further diagnosis of abdominal compartment syndrome. This case report describes the clinical course of both conditions through resolution.

New information provided: Abdominal compartment syndrome is not well described in the veterinary literature, but clinicians should be aware of this potential complication in critically ill patients. The pathophysiology and veterinary literature of abdominal compartment syndrome are reviewed.
Black pigments in the liver related to gold and titanium deposits. a report of four cases
Authors: Brenard R. , Dumortier P. , Del Natale M. , Honhon B. , Van Den Berghe M. , Bataille C. , Rickaert F. , Henrion J. , Peny M. O. , Rahier J.
Published: January 2007

Black pigments are rarely described in the liver. We report four patients with chronic cholestasis and black pigments described on liver histological examination. Energy‐dispersive X‐ray analysis identified these black pigments as gold particles in the first three patients and titanium particles in the fourth. The origin of the gold deposits was unknown in this first patient and related to gold salts therapy in the two others. Titanium deposits was associated with hepatic granulomas and related to total knee replacement.
Resistant Hypertension: Prevalence and Evolving Concepts
Authors: Epstein Murray
Published: January 2007

Resistant hypertension is a common medical disorder. Although the exact incidence of resistant hypertension is not established, estimates derived from recent outcome studies including the Antihypertensive and Lipid‐Lowering Treatment to Prevent Heart Attack Trial (ALLHAT), Valsartan Antihypertensive Long‐term Use Evaluation (VALUE), and Controlled Onset Verapamil Investigation of Cardiovascular End Points (CONVINCE) emphasize that this condition may be more common than previously thought. A major advance in our understanding of the pathogenesis and management of resistant hypertension is the recognition of the importance of aldosterone. Several investigators have postulated a direct role of aldosterone excess as an important mechanism for drug resistance in hypertension. The mechanisms whereby aldosterone elevates BP are complex. It was previously thought that aldosterone produced hypertension primarily by promoting sodium retention with consequent hypervolemia. Recent studies of the effects of aldosterone on vascular smooth muscle have, however, delineated several extrarenal mechanisms whereby aldosterone produces hypertension—primarily by its direct vasoconstrictor effects and by altering vascular compliance. Consequently, aldosterone blockade constitutes an effective intervention for treating resistant hypertension.
Aldosterone and the Vasculature: Mechanisms Mediating Resistant Hypertension
Authors: Duprez Daniel A.
Published: January 2007

The renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system appears to be one of the key factors in the development of hypertensive vascular disease. Identification of mineralocorticoid receptors in the heart, vasculature, and brain has raised speculation that aldosterone may directly mediate its detrimental effects in these target organs independent of angiotensin II. Aldosterone increases vascular tone due to endothelial dysfunction and enhances the pressor response to catecholamines and up‐regulation of angiotensin II receptors. It induces electrolyte transport over the vascular smooth cell membrane and plays a crucial role in vascular remodeling of small and large arteries. Moreover, aldosterone is involved in vascular injury and promotes collagen synthesis, which leads to increased arterial stiffness and elevation of blood pressure. Aldosterone has also been shown to exert a number of effects in the central nervous system. Several human studies have shown that aldosterone is related to baroreflex resetting. Thus, in cases of severe hypertension, there would be fewer compensatory mechanisms to offset blood pressure elevation and ensuing vascular damage. Endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells have the potential to synthesize aldosterone, and tissue aldosterone could play a more important role in resistant hypertension and target organ damage than circulating aldosterone. Understanding aldosterone synthase polymorphism may provide insight into blood pressure patterns and their consequences. Understanding the vascular mechanisms of aldosterone in resistant hypertension may explain why selective aldosterone receptor blockers might have beneficial effects in resistant hypertension.
Clinical Characteristics of Resistant Hypertension: The Importance of Compliance and the Role of Diagnostic Evaluation in Delineating Pathogenesis
Authors: Park Campese Jeanie, Vito
Published: January 2007

Resistant hypertension is defined as failure to achieve goal blood pressure despite adherence to 3 different antihypertensive medications, one of which must be a diuretic. True resistant hypertension must be distinguished by apparent resistant hypertension, of which an important cause is medication nonadherence, which can be recognized through a variety of monitoring strategies and may be improved through better patient education. A thorough history and examination should focus on evaluating for associated factors such as medication and illicit drug use, alcoholism, obesity, and obstructive sleep apnea. Further evaluation to differentiate apparent resistant hypertension from true resistant hypertension should include consideration of ambulatory blood pressure monitoring to rule out white coat hypertension. Routine laboratory work will reveal chronic kidney disease, which is the most common associated factor in resistant hypertension. Secondary or identifiable causes of resistant hypertension include primary aldosteronism, renovascular disease, and pheochromocytoma. Diagnostic evaluation for identifiable causes should be tailored for each patient and guided by signs and symptoms, as well as risks and benefits.
Preparation of Molybdenum, Vanadium, and Tungsten Oxide Thin Films from Self‐Assembly Deposited Polyoxometalate–Alkylamine‐Layered Hybrid Films
Authors: Kida Tetsuya , Iemura Kaoru , Kai Hiroaki , Nagano Masamitsu
Published: January 2007

A novel, simple, and efficient route for preparing MoO3, V2O5, and WO3 films has been developed from layered polyoxometallate (POM)‐alkylamine hybrid films by calcination. The highly ordered hybrid films were self‐assembly deposited in a one‐step process using clear precursor POM solutions, prepared by reacting layered MoO3, V2O5, and WO3·H2O powders with hexylamine in the presence of water. The morphology of the resulting films can be tuned by removing the intercalated hexylamine molecules from the as‐prepared hybrid films through UV irradiation before calcination.
Low‐Temperature Synthesis of CaZrO3 Powder from Molten Salts
Authors: Li Zushu , Lee William Edward , Zhang Shaowei
Published: January 2007

Calcium zirconate (CaZrO3) powder was synthesized using calcium chloride (CaCl2), sodium carbonate (Na2CO3), and zirconia (ZrO2) powders. On heating, CaCl2 reacted with Na2CO3 to form NaCl and CaCO3. NaCl–Na2CO3 molten salts provided a liquid reaction medium for the formation of CaZrO3 from in situ‐formed CaCO3 (or CaO) and ZrO2. CaZrO3 started to form at about 700°C, increasing in amount with increasing temperature and reaction time, with a concomitant decrease in CaCO3 (or CaO) and ZrO2 contents. After washing with hot‐distilled water, the samples heated for 5 h at 1050°C were single‐phase CaZrO3 with 0.5–1.0 μm grain size.
Early Formation of Ettringite in Tricalcium Aluminate–Calcium Hydroxide–Gypsum Dispersions
Authors: Silva Denise A. , Monteiro Paulo J. M.
Published: January 2007

The formation of hydrates in dispersions of cubic tricalcium aluminate (C3A)–calcium hydroxide–gypsum was observed using soft X‐ray transmission microscopy. This technique allows the continuous imaging of the hydration process without the introduction of drying artifacts. Within minutes, microcrystalline hydrates covered the C3A particles but over time large prismatic ettringite crystals are precipitated suppressing the microcrystalline hydrates. Within the resolution of the technique, no protective hydrated layer on the surface of C3A particles was observed.
Multilayer Design and Evaluation of a High Temperature Environmental Barrier Coating for Si‐Based Ceramics
Authors: Shah Sandeep R. , Raj Rishi
Published: January 2007

Two types of environmental barrier coatings for silicon nitride are investigated. In Type A coatings, a bilayer of polymer‐derived SiCN and zirconia was deposited on silicon nitride. This coating nearly completely suppressed oxidation of Si3N4 at 1350°C in a 900 h‐long test. But the coating volatilized in a streaming water vapor environment. In Type B coatings, a topcoat of hafnia was built on to the SiCN coating with an intermediate compliant layer to accommodate the thermal expansion mismatch between hafnia and Si3N4. The three‐layer design was successful in preventing both oxidation as well as weight loss in the silicon nitride at temperatures up to 1300°C. The compliant interlayer was made from a porous microstructure, which approximately followed the guidelines subscribed by a model based on the columnar design. The results lead to both expected and unexpected findings. The three‐layer design used to accommodate thermal expansion followed the prediction from the model. But the suppression of oxidation by the SiCN and zirconia overlayer, in Type A coatings, was unexpected. Inhibition of oxygen diffusion by zircon, which appears to have formed by a reaction between SiCN and zirconia, is one possible explanation. Another explanation is that ionic diffusion of oxygen in zircon overlayer and the molecular diffusion of oxygen through the silica interlayer just below creates an electrical field, which opposes ionic diffusion of oxygen through zircon.
Hot Pressing of Tantalum Carbide With and Without Sintering Additives
Authors: Zhang Xiaohong , Hilmas Gregory E. , Fahrenholtz William G. , Deason Douglas M.
Published: January 2007

Densification of tantalum carbide (TaC) was studied by hot pressing at temperatures ranging from 1900° to 2400°C with and without sintering additives. Without sintering additives, the relative density increased from 75% at 1900°C to 96% at 2400°C. A microstructural examination showed no observable grain growth up to 2300°C. Densification was enhanced with carbon (C) and/or B4C additions. TaC with a 0.78 wt% C addition achieved a relative density of 97% at 2300°C. Additions of 0.36 wt% B4C or 0.43 wt% B4C and 0.13 wt% C increased the relative density to 98% at 2200°C, accompanied by rapid grain growth at 2100°C and higher temperatures.