bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of  Two Different Bioreactors on the Neocartilage Formation in Type II Collagen Modified Polyester Scaffolds Seeded With Chondrocytes
Authors: Hsu Shan‐hui , Kuo Chi‐Ching , Yen Hung‐Jen , Whu Shu Wen , Tsai Ching‐Lin
Published: June 2005

Abstract:  The effect of dynamic culture conditions on neocartilage formation in type II collagen modified polyester scaffolds was studied. Porcine or human articular chondrocytes were seeded in the scaffolds. The cell–scaffold constructs were cultivated statically, in a rotating‐type bioreactor or in a shaker for up to 4 weeks. The cell proliferation, morphology, NO production, synthesis of proteoglycans and collagen, and mechanical properties were evaluated. The results demonstrated that the rotating‐type bioreactor promoted the growth of primary porcine chondrocytes, helped to maintain their phenotype, and increased the production of extracellular matrix. The constructs also had the largest dynamic compressive modulus. In the static condition, chondrocytes occupied only the outer margin of the cell–polymer constructs. The poor mass transfer in static condition may have caused a lower pH value in the middle of the constructs and lead further to faster scaffold degradation as well as the weakest neocartilage. Constructs in the shaker produced the highest amount of NO as well as the lowest amount of cells and matrix production. Human or porcine chondrocytes of the second passage seeded in scaffolds were much less viable, with the largest amount of cells and matrix when cultured in rotating‐type bioreactors. A larger seeding density was required to form neocartilage from passaged adult chondrocytes.
Thoughts and Progress
Authors: Hein Ortrud Vargas , Von Heymann Christian , Morgera Stanislao , Konertz Wolfgang , Ziemer Sabine , Spies Claudia
Published: June 2005

Abstract:  Heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia type II (HIT II) requires alternative anticoagulation. Hirudin has  been  effectively  used  in  patients  with  HIT  II scheduled for cardiac surgery. However, bleeding complications  were  observed  in  patients  with  renal impairment. In vitro hemodialysis (HD) has been questioned over its efficacy in eliminating hirudin. Another approach to stop bleeding is the application of recombinant factor VIIa (rFVIIa). We report on a patient with HIT II and chronic renal failure who suffered from severe hirudin‐induced bleeding after cardiac surgery who was safely treated with a combined approach of surgical hemostasis, substitution of blood products, HD, and rFVIIa to stop finally bleeding.
Effect of the Electroporation in the Field Calculation in Biological Tissues
Authors: Ramos Airton
Published: June 2005

Abstract:  This article presents results from the field calculation in a model of biological tissue taking into account the electroporation process. The electroporation model used in this study was proposed and experimentally verified by Glaser et al. for planar membranes. The numerical method for field calculation is based on a two‐step process: (1) a cell‐scale analysis, used for obtaining the field and current in a small volume containing only one cell and its nearest neighbors; and (2) a tissue‐scale analysis, based on averaged values of conductivity and permittivity (obtained from the cell‐scale analysis) and used for field calculation in a large volume of the tissue. The results for a high voltage applied between two electrodes in a two‐dimensional analysis show that the electric field in the porated tissue extends beyond the limits obtained when the electroporation process is not taken into account. Furthermore, due to the electroporation, the tissue conductivity increases in the space between the electrodes. These results show that the electroporation process cannot be ignored in the field calculation in biological tissues when high strength electric fields are present.
Nifedipine Versus Propranolol for the Initial Prophylaxis of Migraine
Authors: Albers Gregory W. , Simon Lynn T. , Hamik Anne , Peroutka Stephen J.
Published: June 2005

SYNOPSIS

We conducted a randomized open‐labeled study of nifedipine versus propranolol for the initial prophylaxis of migraine. Propranolol was effective in 67% of patients (12/18) and well tolerated. Nifedipine was effective in only 30% of patients (6/20). The lack of overall efficacy of nifedipine was attributable to high incidence of side effects, including an unusual symptom complex resembling erythromelalgia. These side effects led 45% (9/20) of the nifedipine patients to withdraw from the study within two weeks. By contrast, no patient (0/18) withdrew from the study within the first 2 weeks of propranolol therapy. We conclude that nifedipine is not an agent of first choice for the prophylaxis of migraine.
Relevance of Prostaglandins in True Menstrual Migraine
Authors: Nattero Giovanni , Allais Gianni , De Lorenzo Cristina , Benedetto Chiara , Zonca Marina , Melzi Enrico , Massobrio Marco
Published: June 2005

SYNOPSIS

Eighteen patients suffering from true menstrual migraine and 12 control subjects were studied. We evaluated in different phases of the menstrual cycle and during the migraine crisis the peripheral plasma concentrations of 6‐keto‐PGF1a (the stable metabolite of PGI2), thromboxane B2 (the stable metabolite of thromboxane A2), PGF2a and PGE2.

The mean values of 6‐keto‐PGF1a in menstrual migraine sufferers are lower than in normal women throughout the whole cycle. The difference between the trends observed in the two groups is statistically significant (p<0.05). The plasma levels of TXB2 and of PGF2a are similar in the two groups investigated, both n basal conditions and during the attack. The plasma concentrations of PGE2 are slightly lower in migraineurs in basal conditions than in normals. However, during the crisis they increase significantly (plt;0.05). In conclusion, among all the parameters considered, PGE2 seems to play the most important role during the pain phase of the attack.

The results of the present study suggest that a deficit of PGI2, one of the most important protecting agents against ischemia, might be a typical feature of menstrual migraine and might cause in these patients a vascular hypersensitivity to different ischemic stimuli.
Nocturnal Plasma Melatonin Levels in Migraine: A Preliminary Report
Authors: Claustrat B. , Loisy C. , Brun J. , Beorchia S. , Arnaud J. L. , Chazot G.
Published: June 2005

SYNOPSIS

We determined by radioimmunoassay plasma melatonin levels on blood samples drawn at 11 p.m. in migraine patients and control subjects. Ninety‐three cephalalgic outpatients (75 females, 18 males) were compared to a control group (24 females, 22 males) matched according to age.

Patients were divided into subgroups presenting common migraine (n = 38); ophthalmic migraine (n = 12); and tension headache associated with ophthalmic or common migraine (n = 24), and associated depressive status (n = 19). Statistical analysis revealed a decrease in plasma melatonin levels for the entire migraine population, compared to the control one, and a heterogeneity in both controls and patients; this heterogeneity was found mainly in the depressive and tension headache subgroups.

When the migraine population‐from which the depressive patients were excluded‐was divided into male and female subgroups, a decrease in plasma melatonin levels was observed only for the female subgroups.

Results are discussed with reference to the role of the pineal gland in the synchronization of the organism with the environmental conditions.
Lithium‐Induced Headache
Authors: Alvarez‐Cermeño J.C. , Fern´ndez J.M. , O'Neill A. , Moral L. , Saiz‐Ruiz J.
Published: June 2005

SYNOPSIS

A 23‐year old woman developed headache and papilledema due to benign intracranial hypertension (BIH) while taking lithium carbonate for only seven months because of manic‐depressive disease. Having discarded other causes, drug ingestion was the most likely etiology of the syndrome since it was observed that symptoms improved upon lithium withdrawal and worsened when the treatment was restarted. This report shows that BIH may appear as a side‐effect of relatively short‐term therapy with lithium and, therefore, funduscopic exams should be performed in every patient receiving this drug.
The Migraine Aura as a Cause of Avoidance Behavior
Authors: Spierings Egilius L.H. , Reinders Michel J. , Hoogduin Cornelis A.L.
Published: June 2005

SYNOPSIS

Two patients are reported in whom the occurrence of migraine aura led to the development of avoidance behavior. In both patients the migraine aura was given a significance of doom by a previous experience. The avoidance behavior represented an attempt of the patients to deal with the visual disturbance.
Headache as a Risk Factor in Atherosclerosis‐Related Diseases
Authors: Couch James R. , Hassanein Ruth S.
Published: June 2005

SYNOPSIS

A group of 350 migraineurs (87 male, 263 female) and 300 controls without migraine (104 male, 196 female) were questioned about occurrence, in parents, of the atherosclerosis‐related diseases (ASRD) of diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension (HBP), myocardial infarction (MI), and stroke as well as about recurrent severe headache (RSHA). Occurrence of DM, HBP, MI and stroke was compared for mothers and fathers of migraine vs. those of control subjects and no significant differences were found. The mothers and fathers were pooled and resegregated by presence or absence of RSHA and then occurrence of DM, HBP, MI and stroke again compared. For mothers there was increased occurrence of stroke and DM in the RSHA group but the differences were not significant. For RSHA fathers there was increased incidence of MI (p<.10) and HBP (p<.01). Aggregate occurrence of all ASRD was evaluated for RSHA vs. no‐RSHA parents. ASRD occurred more frequently in the RSHA than in the no‐RSHA parents (p<.05). Breakdown by age showed that this occurred at all ages in men (p<.05) but in women the difference was significant only under age 60 (p<.05). This study suggests that RSHA, which is primarily migraine, may be a risk factor or a marker for occurrence of ASRD.
When Headaches Are Good
Authors: Packard Russell C. , Andrasik Frank , Weaver Richard
Published: June 2005

SYNOPSIS

Occasionally patients with headache present with the complaint of “a really good one. ” This paper examines three cases of patients with migraine who often referred to their headaches as “good.”

When the patients were asked what made the headaches good, they immediately tried to clarify their terminology as “just a figure of speech” that really meant bad. Further exploration usually revealed the headache symptoms had indeed been “good” in a relative sense, in that it had somehow served to help the patient avoid a more unpleasant emotional situation. The headache may have allowed a “time out” or a forced period of rest in a hectic schedule, resolved a conflict for the patient in an acceptable way by becoming sick, or represented a suppressed or repressed affect, usually anger.

When headaches are described as good, there may very well be something in the patient's life that is worse.
Enhancing the Effectiveness of Abortive Therapy: A Controlled Evaluation of Self‐Management Training
Authors: Holroyd Kenneth A. , Cordingley Gary E. , Pingel Jeffrey D. , Jerome Albert , Theofanous Angelo G. , Jackson David K. , Leard Leland
Published: June 2005

SYNOPSIS

Research suggests that approximately one half of recurrent headache sufferers fail to adhere properly to drug treatment regimens with as many as two thirds of patients failing to make optimal use of abortive medications such as ergotamine. In spite of these findings there are no controlled studies that have attempted to evaluate methods for improving adherence to drug regimens for the treatment of chronic headache disorders. In an initial effort to address this adherence problem thirty‐four recurrent migraine sufferers were randomized to abortive therapy with ergotamine tartrate plus caffeine (standard abortive therapy) or to standard abortive therapy accompanied by a brief educational intervention designed to facilitate the migraine sufferer's effective use of ergotamine. Patients who received the adjunctive educational intervention attempted to abort a greater percentage of their migraine attacks (70% vs 40%) and showed larger reductions in headache activity (e.g., 40% vs 26%reduction in month two of treatment). However, patients in both treatment groups used similar amounts of abortive medication when attempting to abort a migraine attack and showed similar reductions in analgesic medication use with abortive therapy. There results suggest that brief educational interventions designed to address the problem of patient adherence may yield significant improvements in standard therapies. We argue that such educational interventions deserve more attention in the headache treatment literature than they have received to date.
The Treatment of Migraine with Variable Frequency Photo‐Stimulation
Authors: Anderson D. J.
Published: June 2005

SYNOPSIS

Variable Frequency Photo‐stimulation (VFP) goggles are a form of portable stroboscope, using red Light Emitting Diodes to alternately illuminate the right and left eyes, with the eyelids closed, at a rate of 0.5 to 50Hz. VFP goggles were used in the treatment of 7 patients with migraine headache. Of 50 migraine headaches recorded, 49 were rated by the patient as being helped and 36 as being stopped by using the VFP goggles. Treatment reduced the median duration of headache in all patients. The interval between migraine headaches appeared to be increased in the two cases with a follow up of more than 18 months. We conclude in this preliminary study that VFP appears to be effective in the treatment of migraine.
Clinical and Electrophysiological Responses to Dietary Challenge in Migraineurs
Authors: Lai Chi‐Wan , Dean Philip , Ziegler Dewey K. , Hassanein Ruth S.
Published: June 2005

SYNOPSIS

Thirty eight patients with a history of diet‐induced migraine were studied with recording of clinical responses, electro‐encephalography in resting state, in response to photic stimulation, and to hyperventilation and visual evoked potentials. Tests were carried out on an initial baseline day and on a second day, after challenge with chocolate, red wine, cheese, and fasting.

Lateralized headache occurred in sixteen subjects (42%), four with scintillating scotomata. Electroencephalograms were abnormal on Day I and/or Day 2 in twelve subjects (32%), most abnormalities being non‐specific slow waves. In three cases there were paroxysmal features.

Electroencephalographic response to hyperventilation was calibrated and was found to be exaggerated in eight subjects (21%) on either Day 1 or Day 2; such response was not related to the occurrence of a headache. Photic simulation showed high frequency driving response (so called “H” response) in all 16 individuals who developed headache but in only 14 out of 22 (64%) who did not (p<0.01). Pattern reversal visual evoked responses were normal and failed to show any difference in latency or amplitude between headache responders and non‐responders.
Flow Cytometric Analysis of Lymphocyte Subsets in Peripheral Blood of Chronic Headache Patients
Authors: Gilman‐Sachs Alice , Robbins Lawrence , Baum Linda
Published: June 2005

SYNOPSIS

Lymphocyte subsets from 5 groups of patients with different types of chronic headaches were analyzed by flow cytometry to determine the number of cells bearing the following markers: T11 (E‐rosette receptor), T3 (total T cells), T4 (T‐helper/ inducer cells), T8 (T‐cytotoxic/suppressor cells), B1 (B‐cells), NKH‐1 (Natural killer cells), 12 (Class II histocompatibility anti‐gens, monomorphic determinants) and Mo2 (monocytes). In 4 of 5 of these groups, the absolute number of T8 lymphocytes was significantly lower than that of the control group. In addition, the T4:T8 ratio was higher in these 4 groups. These findings may suggest a relationship between the immune system and the cause of chronic headaches.
Ocular Blood Flow Changes in Cluster Headache and Chronic Paroxysmal Hemicrania
Authors: Horven Ivar , Russell David , Sjaastad Ottar
Published: June 2005

SYNOPSISIntraocular pressure and pulsatile ocular blood flow were recorded during and between attacks in patients suffering from cluster headache (n = 18) or chronic paroxysmal hemicrania (n=7). Similarities, as well as significant differences, were observed between the two groups of patients, pointing to fundamental differences. between the two disorders with regard to pathophysiology. Compared with healthy controls, the cluster headache patients demonstrated low pulsatile ocular blood flow values between attacks, with an increase to normal levels during pain. The chronic paroxysmal hemicrania patients, however, had normal values between attacks with a marked and significant increase to high values during attacks.
Verapamil in Migraine Prophylaxis ‐ A Five‐Year Review
Authors: Solomon Glen D.
Published: June 2005

SYNOPSIS

Verapamil is a papaverine derivative calcium channel blocking drug that has been effectively utilized in the prophylaxis of migraine. This paper reviews the clinical pharmacology as it applied to headache and the current research on the clinical use of verapamil in migraine prophylaxis. Included are three double‐blind, placebo‐controlled studies. Ten of 12 patients, eight of 14 patients, and 20 of 23 patients showed improvement, with all studies finding verapamil significantly more effective than placebo in migraine prophylaxis. Research comparing 240 mg/day with 320 mg/day dosing found 320 mg/day significantly more effective in reducing migraine frequency. Review of 133 refractory headache‐clinic patients, treated with verapamil and additional drugs reported excellent (100% improvement) or good results (> 50% reduction in migraine frequency) in 5% and 40% of patients, respectively. Fair response (< 50% improvement) was observed in 50% of patients, and poor response was seen in 5% of patients. Analysis of this information reveals that verapamil is a safe, well‐tolerated and effective agent for migraine prophylaxis.
Home‐ vs. Clinic‐Based Biofeedback Treatment for Pediatric Migraine: Results of Treatment Through One‐Year Follow‐Up
Authors: Burke Edmund J. , Andrasik Frank
Published: June 2005

SYNOPSIS

While temperature biofeedback and related bio‐behavioral procedures have become common in the treatment of adult migraineurs, the application of these techniques to the pediatric population has lagged far behind. The current investigation was undertaken to examine various methods for delivering biofeedback with this population. Nine children participated in this single‐subject, clinical replication series in which clinic‐based therapist‐administered, home‐based child‐administered, and home‐based parent‐administered treatment formats were evaluated. Headache activity was assessed through the use of a daily headache log. Overall, results supported the utility of temperature biofeedback in the treatment of pediatric migraine. Further, it was suggested that home‐based treatments may represent an equally efficacious and more cost‐effective alternative to traditional clinic‐based treatments. Finally, treatment effects were found to be stable, with results maintaining through a one‐year follow‐up period.
Drug‐Related Headache
Authors: Askmark Håkan , Lundberg Per Olov , Olsson S.
Published: June 2005

SYNOPSIS

A survey was made of 10,506 reports to the WHO Collaboration Centre for International Drug Monitoring from five countries concerning headache, migraine, aggravated migraine and intracranial hypertension associated with drugs. The ten drugs most frequently reported to be associated with headache were indomethacin, nifedipine, cimetidine, atenolol, trimethoprim‐sulphamethoxazole, zimeldine, glyceryl trinitrate, isosorbide dinitrate, zomepirac and ranitidine. Regarding migraine, oral contraceptives were also among the most implicated drugs. Most reports of intracranial hypertension concerned tetra‐cyclines, isotretinoin and trimethoprim‐ sulphamethoxazole. Vasodilatation and salt and water retention with subsequent redistribution of intracranial fluid seem to be common mechanisms underlying drug‐related headache. For certain frequently reported drugs, however, the mechanisms of the headache are unknown.
Reversal of Cluster Headache Side Following Treatment of Arteriovenous Malformation
Authors: Gawel Marek J. , Willinsky Robert A. , Krajewski Adam
Published: June 2005

SYNOPSIS

We describe the case of a forty‐four year old man who had typical right sided cluster headaches and an arteriovenous malformation supplied mainly by the right anterior cerebral artery. Following endovascular embolisation of this artery the AVM was supplied mainly by the left anterior cerebral artery. Subsequent headaches have always been on the left. Transcranial Doppler studies now suggested an increase of middle cerebral artery flow velocity. We suggest that the change in haemodynamics was responsible for the change in headache side.
Couple Therapy and Chronic Headache: A Preliminary Outcome Study
Authors: Roy Ranjan
Published: June 2005

SYNOPSIS

This brief report examines the factors that led to successful completion of couple therapy with 8 chronic headache patients and their spouses, as opposed to another 8 couples who dropped out of treatment. Overall, the couples who successfully completed therapy were in less strifeful marriages and were confronted with specific life change events as opposed to the couples who dropped out, who gave evidence of chronic marital difficulties. Family and couple therapy for chronic headache sufferers is recommended on a selective basis.
Low CSF Met‐Enkephalin Levels in Cluster Headache Are Elevated by Acupuncture
Authors: Hardebo Jan Erik , Ekman Rolf , Eriksson Margareta
Published: June 2005

SYNOPSIS

Significantly lower met‐enkephalin levels were found in CSF from cluster headache sufferers as compared to age‐matched healthy volunteers, whereas it was not possible to demonstrate any clear‐cut difference for ß‐endorphin. CSF opioid levels may rise following manual or electroacupuncture. It was studied whether traditional Chinese (manual) acupuncture affected CSF levels of met‐enkephalin or (ß‐endorphin in these patients, and to what extent this treatment would be beneficial for the headache. A significant rise in lumbar CSF met‐enkephalin levels was found, whereas no clear change in ß‐endorphin levels was obtained. The treatment was, however, of little value in preventing the headache.
Increase in PGE2 and TXA2 in the Saliva of Common Migraine Patients. Action of Calcium Channel Blockers
Authors: Tuca J. Obach , Planas J.M. , Parellada R Puig
Published: June 2005

SYNOPSIS

PGE2 and TXA2 levels and their modulation by nicardipine, a calcium blocking agent, have been studied in patients suffering from migraine. The levels of both metabolites were determined in saliva obtained during the migraine attacks, during the intervals between attacks, and after 2 months of treatment with nicardipine (20 mg every 8 h.) or placebo. The therapeutic response was evaluated on the basis of the number of migraine attacks. The results show a significant increase in the levels of both eicosanoids during the migraine attacks. In contrast to the placebo group, the number of migraine attacks and the levels of both arachidonic acid metabolites are markedly lower in the nicardipine group. Our results suggest calcium entry into the cytosol as an explanation for the increase in PGE2 and TXA2. Nicardipine interferes with calcium mobilization, thereby inhibiting arachidonic acid metabolite synthesis.
Site of Injury Headache
Authors: Vijayan N. , Watson Craig
Published: June 2005

SYNOPSIS

Wolff described three types of post‐traumatic headaches (PTH). In type II PTH, the pain is located at the site of injury. Local soft tissue trauma and direct damage or entrapment of sensory nerves in the scar tissue are thought to be responsible for this type of headache. It is often difficult to study the neurological and autonomic changes in the scalp in these patients. We report here 8 patients with PTH in whom the site of injury was on the face thereby allowing us to evaluate the local neurological changes with greater accuracy. The results of this study corroborate Wolff's view of the pathogenesis of type II or “site of injury” PTH.
Treatment of Acute Migraine Attack: Ibuprofen and Placebo Compared
Authors: Havanka‐Kanniainen H.
Published: June 2005

SYNOPSIS

The efficacy of ibuprofen in comparison with that of placebo was assessed in the treatment of acute migraine attacks. The material consisted of 40 migraine patients. Each treatment period continued for five migraine attacks. The initial dose of ibuprofen was 800 mg, with additional 400 mg taken if and when needed. The mean duration of migraine attacks treated with ibuprofen was significantly shorter than the duration of migraine attacks treated with placebo. Need for supplementary medication was also significantly lower in the ibuprofen‐treated migraine attack group. Ibuprofen was well tolerated and no marked side effects were reported during the trial.
Post‐Traumatic Headache with Scintillating Scotoma Treated with Phenytoin (Dilantin)
Authors: Robbins Lawrence
Published: June 2005

SYNOPSIS

A post‐traumatic headache patient was experiencing “flashing lights” in her visual field that correlated with sharp waves on the EEG. Phenytoin markedly improved the symptoms. The value of the EEG in post‐traumatic headaches is reviewed. The use of phenytoin in headache syndromes and in prevention of post‐traumatic epilepsy is discussed.
The Vascular “Cold Patch” is Not a Prognostic Index for Headache
Authors: Swerdlow Bernard , Dieter John Nathan
Published: June 2005

SYNOPSIS

Our previous research has determined that the vascular “cold patch” is a valid diagnostic “marker” and is a persistent constituent of the thermal geography of the external carotid region. It has been suggested by DallaVolta and Anzola (1988) that the cold patch may be a prognostic index of vascular headache physiology; that is, as headaches improve through the use of vaso active prophylactic medication, the cold patch would decrease in size or disappear. The purpose of this study is an attempt to replicate these findings.

Forty migraine patients were randomly selected, and a thermographic re‐examination of the external carotid region (forehead) was conducted. The post‐treatment thermogram was then compared to the initial pre‐treatment thermogram. Thirty subjects demonstrated an improved condition (IC) and ten subjects aworsened condition (WC). The IC Group exhibited a 73.2% reduction in headache frequency following a mean treatment period of 6.3 months. The WC Group demonstrated a 48.1% increase in headache occurrence at a mean treatment interval of fifteen months.

Results demonstrated little thermographic difference between the two conditions. Within the IC Group,46.7% of subjects exhibited and increase in cold patch size with an improved condition, 40% of cold patches remained stable, 6.7% of cold patches reduced in size, and zero cold patches disappeared with successful treatment. Within the WC Group, 20% of cold patches decreased in size with a worsened condition, 40%increased in size, and 40% remained stable. Chi square analysis determined there was no significant difference in cold patch changes between patients whose headache condition improved or worsened (p<.70).

Examination revealed that temperature changes across the entire facial pattern were responsible for cold patch fluctuations. Chi square analysis determined that cold patches had a tendency to increase in size as the overall facial temperature decreased, and cold patches had a tendency to decrease in size as the overall temperature rose. These overall temperature alterations are most likely the effects of vasoconstriction and vasodilatation. These findings are supported by our previous research.

The results of this investigation suggests that the vascular cold patch is independent of prognosis and is most likely a permanent element of a vascular headache sufferer's facial thermal pattern.
Low Brain Magnesium in Migraine
Authors: Ramadan N.M. , Halvorson H. , Vande‐Linde A. , Levine Steven R. , Helpern J.A. , Welch K.M.A.
Published: June 2005

SYNOPSIS

Brain magnesium was measured in migraine patients and control subjects using in vivo 31‐PhosphorusNuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy, pMg and pH were calculated from the chemical shifts between Pi, PCr and ATP signals. Magnesium levels were low during a migraine attack without changes in pH. We hypothesize that low brain magnesium is an important factor in the mechanism of the migraine attack.
Cryotherapy for Headache
Authors: Robbins Lawrence D.
Published: June 2005

SYNOPSIS

45 patients with migraine or migraine plus chronic daily headache evaluated the effectiveness of a coldwrap for headache relief. 35.5% judged it not effective, 29% judged it mildly effective, 26.5% found it moderately effective, and 9% judged it completely effective. Previous studies on ice treatment for headache are reviewed.
Platelet Norepinephrine and Serotonin Balance in Migraine
Authors: D'Andrea G. , Welch KMA , Grunfeld S. , Joseph Rajiv , NageI‐Leiby Sandra
Published: June 2005

SYNOPSIS

Platelet serotonin (5 hydroxytryptamine, 5‐HT) and norepinephrine (NE) were measured in common and classic migraine patients and healthy controls. Common migraine sufferers had high NE levels and a low 5‐HT/NE ratio. Classic migraine patients had a high 5‐HT level and a high 5‐HT/NE ratio. The data suggest disparate NE and 5‐HT metabolism between common and classic migraine.
Cardiac Device Implant Wound Closure with 2‐Octyl Cyanoacrylate
Authors: PACHULSKI ROMAN , SABBOUR HANI , GUPTA RAKESH , ADKINS DANIELLE , MIRZA HUMAIR , CONE JESSE
Published: June 2005

2‐Octyl Cyanoacrylate (2‐OCA) is a tissue adhesive developed for skin laceration closure that has not been previously evaluated for cardiac device implant wound closure. We reviewed 460 consecutive device implants with 475 incisions between November 1993 and May 2001. From November 1993 to December 1998, all patients (n = 335) had a 3‐layer reabsorbable suture closure with the application of topical bacitracin and dressing material. They were advised to avoid exposure to moisture for 10 days. From January 1999 to May 2001, the superficial suture layer was replaced with 2‐OCA (n = 125). No topical bacitracin or dressing was applied and patients were allowed to shower within 72 hours. The two groups did not differ significantly with respect to age (69 ± 12 vs 70 ± 13 years, P = NS), sex (59% vs 62% male, p = NS) or device type (77% vs 68% pacemakers/loop recorders, p = NS). All incisions were evaluated at 24 hours, 7–14 days, and 6–12 weeks postprocedure. The 2‐OCA and suture groups did not differ significantly with respect to allergic reaction (0% vs 1.4%, P = NS), cellulitis (0% vs 0.9%, P = NS), and infection requiring explant (0.8% vs 0.3%, P = NS), respectively. Total adverse events occurred in 1 of 125 (0.8%) of the 2‐OCA group versus 9 of 350 (2.6%) of the suture group (P = NS). In cardiac device implant closure 2‐OCA obviated the need for topical antibiotics and dressing materials while facilitating wound care without increased complications.
Use of a New Thrombus Extraction Catheter (The Pronto®) in the Treatment of Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: LIM MICHAEL J. , REIS LISA , ZIAEE ALI , KERN MORTON J.
Published: June 2005

The finding of an intracoronary thrombus at the time of coronary angiography is common in patients presenting with an acute coronary syndrome. Pharmacologic and mechanical treatment strategies have been developed and reported to facilitate the treatment of the thrombus along with a percutaneous coronary intervention. We report a case in which a Pronto™ thrombectomy catheter was utilized to facilitate thrombus removal prior to the placement of a coronary stent in a patient who developed postinfarct angina and pulmonary edema after successful thrombolytic therapy for a acute ST segment elevation myocardial infarction.
Alcohol Septal Ablation for Hypertrophic Obstructive Cardiomyopathy
Authors: ABBAS AMR E. , BREWINGTON STACY D. , DIXON SIMON R. , GRINES CINDY L. , O'NEILL WILLIAM W.
Published: June 2005

HOCM is a rare disorder of myocardium that may result in asymmetrical left ventricular septal hypertrophy and dynamic outflow obstruction. This may result in hemodynamic sequel that leads to deterioration of functional class in the majority of patients. Alcohol septal ablation may provide symptomatic relief in the majority of patients who fail medical therapy or who experience significantly high outflow gradients.
Thrombolysis Increases the Risk of Free Wall Rupture in Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: OKINO SHINICHI , NISHIYAMA KEI , ANDO KENJI , NOBUYOSHI MASAKIYO
Published: June 2005

In spite of the progress made in acute angiographic evaluation and obtaining durable reperfusion of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in the past two decades, cardiac free wall rupture (FWR) is still one of the causes of mortality following AMI. In this study, we evaluated the role of thrombolysis in the risk of FWR in AMI patients treated with acute percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Among 3,786 consecutive AMI patients seen between 1985 and 2003, 3,066 patients were treated by primary PCI or rescue PCI, with or without additional thrombolysis. FWR occurred in 24 of 3,066 patients (0.8%) treated by PCI; female gender (1.4% vs 0.6%, P = 0.001), age >75 years, (1.4% vs 0.6%, P = 0.001) left main coronary artery (LMCA)‐related infarction, (4.5% vs all other arteries, P = 0.015), and thrombolytic use (3.1% vs 0.4%, P < 0.001) were all associated with higher rates of FWR by univariate analysis. In patients treated with PCI and thrombolysis, FWR occurred in 2.7% with optimal PCI results but in only 4.9% if PCI was unsuccessful (P = NS). The incidence of FWR in patients with optimal PCI without thrombolysis was 0.4% (P < 0.001). Multivariable analysis identified thrombolytic use (odds ratio [OR]: 8.49, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.66–19.7, P < 0.001), LMCA‐related infarction (OR: 7.06, 95% CI: 1.89–26.4, P = 0.004), and female gender (OR: 3.02, 95% CI: 1.27–7.21, P = 0.013) as independent predictors of FWR. Thrombolysis is one of the contributing causes of FWR in AMI patients undergoing PCI, even when PCI is successful.
Shifting Priorities: Congressional Incentives and the Homeland Security Granting Process
Authors: Roberts Patrick S.
Published: June 2005

Small states receive more homeland security grant money per capita than large states because of the structure of representation and decision making in Congress. Beyond per capita allocations, the homeland security granting process affects the structure of state and local emergency management agencies, shifting priorities away from natural and technological disasters toward counterterrorism. I suggest using competitive grants, increasing the salience of the granting process, and changing the institutional setting in order to rationalize the granting process.
United States’ Narco‐Terrorism Policy: A Contingency Approach to the Convergence of the Wars on Drugs and Against Terrorism
Authors: Dolan Chris J.
Published: June 2005

In recent years, terrorist organizations have become increasingly dependent on drug trafficking as one of several primary sources of revenue to fund terrorist activities. In response, the United States’ security and intelligence efforts against narco‐terrorism have increasingly merged into one unified policy approach. Moreover, the convergence of United States policy wars against terrorism and illicit drugs have produced complex and dynamic contingency factors. As a result, a relatively coherent nexus now exists between the United States’ antinarcotics and antiterrorist policies. The objective of this article is to explain and assess the contingency factors and implications resulting from this convergence and to provide policy scholars with an analytical perspective into the implications of the United States’ narco‐terrorism policy. It is believed that this article is significant to both policy practitioners and policy scholars concerned with the domestic impact of the United States’ narco‐terrorism policy.
The Evolution and Devolution of Speed Limit Law and the Effect on Fatality Rates
Authors: Yowell Robert O.
Published: June 2005

The three most recent decades provide an outstanding opportunity to study the changing federalist landscape concerning the regulation of speed on the nation's highways. Speed limits were the province of the states until the 1970s when, in an effort to save energy, the central government nationalized the maximum speed at 55 miles per hour. The national standard remained until the 1980s, when a partial devolution transferred some power to set speed limits back to the individual states. At that time, states could increase the maximum speed to 65 miles per hour on (at fewest) four‐lane, controlled access highways in low population density areas. Some states elected to loosen the limits within their borders, while others did not, citing concerns of highway safety as paramount. The 1990s saw the complete devolution of speed limit control to the states, when Congress returned to the states unlimited control. States reacted differently in both of the two latter phases, providing a fruitful landscape for comparative analysis of the effects of the devolution of speed limit control.

The focus of this research is to examine which states raised the speed limits at the two stages of devolution, and what the subsequent effects were. I examine the issue of highway safety as a consequence of speed limit change, comparing states to elucidate differences to determine effects. Analysis of highway deaths per mile driven indicates that the nationalization of the 55 miles per hour contributed to an initial greater decline in the former than had been the trend, but the long‐term decreasing trend pattern reemerged following the shock of the change in federal speed limit policy. Additionally, the speed limit devolution and resulting raising of speed limits in certain states did not lead to a statistically significant rise in fatalities per miles driven. Automobile safety features and enforcement emerge as important factors in increasing highway safety; speed limits are far less important.
Welfare Reform and Models of Public Policy: Why Policy Sciences Are Required
Authors: Levin‐Waldman Oren M.
Published: June 2005

Policy could be studied on the basis of three different models: ideological, social science, and policy sciences. Policy in accordance with ideology may not necessarily rely on solid rigorous research to back it up. Policy made solely in accordance with a rigorous social science model might be able to demonstrate a causal relationship between a given policy and desired outcomes, and in the process establish a clear role for good research in the policy process. But it often fails to account for the larger social and political context in which policy is formulated. Good policy should be based on rigorous social science research, while also factoring in the values of the broader society, that is, ideology. This would imply that in order to bridge the gap, that good policy should be formulated in accordance with the policy sciences model because it connects the rigorous methodology of the social sciences with the larger social policy context, that is, the broader policy process. When analyzing the reform of 1996 within the framework of these models, it becomes clear that while the legislation is highly ideological, it is not based on any serious research that would satisfy the criteria of the social science model. It fails the policy sciences model, in part, because its absence of clearly defined objectives, or a single objective, makes the task of measurement difficult. On the contrary, this legislation is a good example of why the policy community would do better to rely more on the policy sciences.
The spatial dynamics of pollen beetles in relation to inflorescence growth stage of oilseed rape: implications for trap crop strategies
Authors: Frearson David J.T. , Ferguson Andrew W. , Campbell James M. , Williams Ingrid H.
Published: June 2005

Semi‐field‐scale arrays of oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) (Brassicaceae) plants were used to observe the development of distributions of pollen beetles (Meligethes aeneus Fabricius) (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae) in a simulated trap crop system where inflorescence growth stage alone was used to manipulate the pest. Over two successive years, pairs of 1 m spaced square arrays of 100 glasshouse‐grown plants were placed 40 m apart in the field in May, and were subject to natural infestation by pollen beetles. The test plot of each pair had a simulated trap crop, with an outer row of plants at early flowering stage intended to protect more susceptible inner plants at late bud stage, and the control plot had all plants at the late‐bud stage, simulating a standard crop situation. Pollen beetles were counted daily on each plant for 10–13 days. The spatio‐temporal development of plot infestation was analysed in relation to the distribution of racemes in bud and raceme in flowers using Spatial Analysis by Distance IndicEs (SADIE), and tests of edge and centre distribution. Inflorescence growth stage characteristics were shown to be important in determining the spatial distributions of pollen beetles. In control plots, the numbers of racemes in bud and in flower were never edge or centre distributed. In test plots, racemes in flower were always edge distributed, and racemes in bud began edge distributed and became centre distributed. Pollen beetle numbers were usually spatially associated with the abundance of racemes in bud and/or in flower. In control plots, pollen beetles were neither edge nor centre distributed, but in test plots they maintained a significant edge distribution for 7–10 days. At the end of the experiments, females were more centre distributed in the test plots than males, and were more closely associated with racemes with buds, whereas males were more associated with racemes with flowers. In early flowering stage plants, the number of racemes in flowers were a good indicator of the abundance of racemes in buds, but this relationship was lost as flowering progressed. Although flowering racemes provide strong cues for immigrating pollen beetles, the abundance of buds may be a more important determinant of residence time, particularly for females, and is therefore a critical determinant of trap crop effectiveness.
Quantification of diapausing fourth generation and suicidal fifth generation cotton bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera, in cotton and corn in northern China
Authors: Ge Feng , Chen Fa‐jun , Parajulee Megha N. , Yardim Erdal N.
Published: June 2005

Cotton bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is a major pest of cotton and corn crops in northern China. A phenological differentiation between fourth generation cotton bollworms from cotton and those from corn fields was observed in northern China during 1999–2000. The proportion of pupation in late fall was marginally higher in cotton fields compared to that in corn fields; however, the proportions of fall emergence of moths from cotton fields were significantly higher than those from corn fields. The proportion of spring emergence of moths was also significantly higher for larvae collected from cotton (28.0%) than from corn (14.5%). The overwintering duration of females was significantly shorter than that of males in both crops. Moreover, the overwintering duration of bollworm populations from cotton was significantly longer than that from corn. The early spring population of H. armigera came from both cotton and corn fields, but the spring emergence of moths from larvae collected from cotton took about 5 days longer to reach 100% emergence compared to that from corn.
Oviposition preference and larval performance of North American monarch butterflies on four Asclepias species
Authors: Ladner Deborah T. , Altizer Sonia
Published: June 2005

Monarch butterflies, Danaus plexippus L. (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae), occur world‐wide and are specialist herbivores of plants in the milkweed family (Asclepiadaceae). In North America, two monarch populations breed east and west of the continental divide in areas populated by different host plant species. To examine the population variation in monarch responses to different Asclepias species, we measured oviposition preference and larval performance among captive progeny reared from adult butterflies collected in eastern and western North America. Host plant use was evaluated using two milkweed species widely distributed in eastern North America (A. incarnata and A. syriaca), and two species common to western North America (A. fascicularis and A. speciosa). We predicted that exposure to different host plant species in their respective breeding ranges could select for divergent host use traits, so that monarchs should preferentially lay more eggs on, and larvae should perform better on, milkweed species common to their native habitats. Results showed that across all adult female butterflies, oviposition preferences were highest for A. incarnata and lowest for A. fascicularis, but mean preferences did not differ significantly between eastern and western monarch populations. Larvae from both populations experienced the highest survival and growth rates on A. incarnata and A. fascicularis, and we again found no significant interactions between monarch source population and milkweed species. Moreover, the average rank order of larval performance did not correspond directly to mean female oviposition preferences, suggesting that additional factors beyond larval performance influence monarch oviposition behavior. Finally, significant family level variation was observed for both preference and performance responses within populations, suggesting an underlying genetic variation or maternal effects governing these traits.
The relationship between selected measures of periodontal status and demographic and behavioural risk factors
Authors: Dye Bruce A. , Selwitz Robert H.
Published: June 2005

Objective: To assess differences between selected periodontal measures by demographic and behavioural factors in a nationally representative sample of the United States.

Methods: Data for 11,347 person's ages 20–79 years from the third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III) were used. Indices and measures constructed from NHANES III data used for this study were: derived community periodontal index (dCPI), attachment loss extent index (ALEI), attachment loss (AL) scores, and a Periodontal Status Measure (PSM) developed for this study.

Results: The influence of demographic and behavioural factors varied across the four indices examined in multivariate cumulative logistic models. Moreover, there was significant effect modification by cigarette smoking with age in the ALEI and AL models. The odds ratio (OR) of increasing periodontal disease status among 20–39 year olds as measured by AL or ALEI for current smokers compared with non‐smokers were OR=6.2 (95% confidence interval (CI)=4.1, 8.7) and OR=5.6 (95% CI=3.7, 8.7), respectively. In a similar comparison, the OR for dCPI was 2.6 (95% CI=1.7, 3.8). Furthermore, Mexican American ethnicity was generally not significant in any models using dCPI, PSM, AL, or ALEI and prior dental visit was more likely to be significant only in the dCPI and PSM models.

Discussion: Among the well‐known demographic and behavioural influences on periodontal health status, some, such as race/ethnicity and prior dental visit status have different relationships with differing periodontal measures employed to assess periodontal status. Moreover, potential interactions among cofactors also are dependent upon the measure selected. Periodontal research findings may be influenced significantly by periodontal measure selection and its affect on measurement validity. This may have particular relevance to issues concerning disease surveillance and assessing reduction of disparities in oral health. Consequently, a renewed approach to developing appropriate measures for periodontal epidemiology is needed.