bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Children who have complex health needs: parents' experiences of their child's education
Authors: Hewitt‐Taylor J.
Published: March 2009

Background  An increasing number of children have complex and continuing health needs. These children have the same right to a full range of education opportunities as other children.

Methods  This paper reports on the findings from a small qualitative study of the experiences of parents whose children have complex heath needs, related to their experiences of their child's education. Interviews with parents were used to generate data.

Findings  Parents encounter a number of challenges to their children achieving equal opportunities in relation to education. The factors which influence their opportunities include: staffing issues, funding issues, the attitudes of individuals and organizations, staff confidence in meeting children's needs, clarity over responsibilities and funding. For parents, what seemed most important is not whether their child accesses mainstream education, but whether the school which they attend assists them to achieve their potential. Children who have complex health needs may have to make a greater effort than their peers to achieve educational goals, and may miss considerable school time. This can impact on their leisure time. Accessing pre‐school education can be difficult for children who have complex health needs.

Conclusions  Inclusion in education should include pre‐school provision, and more work in this area would be beneficial. Inclusion in mainstream education is only beneficial if it enables the child to participate fully with their peers. This requires practical and organizational issues to be addressed, services to be well co‐ordinated, responsibilities and funding to be clear, and staff to be enabled to be confident in meeting the child's needs. However, it is also vital that individuals and organizations have a positive attitude to children and to inclusion. The additional effort and time which children may have to spend on their school work because of their health needs should also be recognized and supported appropriately.
Emotional and behavioural problems in subgroups of children with chronic illness: results from a large‐scale population study
Authors: Hysing M. , Elgen I. , Gillberg C. , Lundervold A. J.
Published: March 2009

Background  Children with chronic illness are known to have an increased risk of emotional and behavioural problems. In the present population‐based study children with asthma, neurological disorders and other chronic illnesses were compared with children without chronic illnesses to assess differences in psychological presentation across illness groups.

Methods  A total of 537 children with parent‐reported chronic illness in the Bergen Child Study were categorized into three groups: asthma, neurological disorders and other chronic illnesses. Emotional and behavioural problems were assessed by the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire.

Results  All three illness groups had an increased rate of emotional and behavioural problems, as well as increased probability of a psychiatric disorder compared with children without a chronic illness. Most children with asthma and other chronic illnesses did not have emotional and behavioural problems, and effect sizes were small in both groups. In children with neurological disorders the effect sizes ranged from moderate to large, with emotional problems, inattention hyperactivity and peer problems being the most frequent problems.

Conclusions  The increased rate of emotional and behavioural problems in children with chronic illness, especially neurological disorders, emphasizes the importance of early detection of mental health problems in these children.
Assistive devices and cerebral palsy: the use of assistive devices at school by children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Huang I‐C. , Sugden D. , Beveridge S.
Published: March 2009

Background  Although the importance of providing disabled children with assistive devices has always been highlighted, most studies in the field of assistive device research seek the participation of adult users or adult carers. Accordingly, the opinions of young users themselves seem to be overlooked. To start to address the gap, this study aimed to understand the children's perspectives regarding device use in school and to explore the factors related to their device utilization in this setting.

Methods  Semi‐structured interviews were adopted as the main data collection instrument. A total of 44 participants were involved, including 15 Taiwanese children with cerebral palsy, aged between 8 and 15 years, 15 mothers and 14 teachers.

Results  The interview results show a high frequency of device use in school which can be attributed to children's willingness, teachers' attitudes, mothers' support, physical environmental factors and device‐related features.

Conclusions  The findings not only demonstrate the significance of child–environment interaction but also provide evidence that children's views may be different from those of adults because they are at a different developmental stage and act out different roles in their environment.
Targeting of mTOR is associated with decreased growth and decreased VEGF expression in acute myeloid leukaemia cells
Authors: Böhm A. , Aichberger K. J. , Mayerhofer M. , Herrmann H. , Florian S. , Krauth M.‐T. , Derdak S. , Samorapoompichit P. , Sonneck K. , Vales A. , Gleixner K. V. , Pickl W. F. , Sperr W. R. , Valent P.
Published: March 2009

Background  The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) has recently been implicated in leukaemic cell growth, tumour‐associated angiogenesis and expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). We examined whether mTOR plays a role as regulator of growth and VEGF‐expression in acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). Three mTOR‐targeting drugs, rapamycin, everolimus (RAD001) and CCI‐779, were applied. The effects of these drugs on growth, survival, apoptosis and VEGF expression in primary AML cells and various AML cell lines were examined.

Materials and methods  Growth of AML cells and AML‐derived cell lines was assessed by 3H‐thymidine incorporation, survival was examined by light‐ and electron microscopy, by Tunel assay and by AnnexinV‐staining, and the expression of VEGF by Northern blotting, RT‐PCR and ELISA.

Results  Rapamycin was found to counteract growth in the AML cell lines U937 and KG1a as well as in primary AML cells in 14/18 patients examined. The effects of rapamycin and its derivatives were dose‐dependent (IC50: 10 pM–100 nM). It was also found that exposure to mTOR‐targeting drugs resulted in apoptosis and in decreased expression of VEGF in leukaemic cells.

Conclusions  mTOR‐targeting drugs exert antileukaemic effects on AML cells in vitro through multiple actions, including direct inhibition of proliferation, induction of apoptosis and suppression of VEGF. Based on this study and other studies, mTOR can be regarded as a potential drug target in AML.
Deferasirox induces regression of iron overload in patients with myelodysplastic syndromes
Authors: Wimazal F. , Nösslinger T. , Baumgartner C. , Sperr W. R. , Pfeilstöcker M. , Valent P.
Published: March 2009

Background  Transfusion‐related morbidity is an emerging problem in chronically transfused patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). Although several iron‐chelating drugs are available, the optimal way of treatment of iron‐overload remains uncertain. A major disadvantage of deferoxamine is that the drug has to be applied as continuous subcutaneous infusion. Therefore, novel oral agents have been developed. One of these drugs is deferasirox (Exjade®).

Materials and methods  We report on 14 MDS patients who were treated with deferasirox (500–1500 mg daily) for up to 24 months. In these patients, treatment responses were recorded by determining serum ferritin levels before and during therapy and by applying recently established response criteria.

Results  In all patients except one, ferritin levels decreased during therapy. Four patients showed a complete response, one a minor response and five a stable iron load. In the responding patients, initially elevated liver enzymes decreased substantially. No substantial change in transferrin saturation or transfusion frequency was recorded. Side effects were mild and tolerable in most patients. In one patient, treatment with deferasirox was stopped because of impaired kidney function.

Conclusion  Our data show that treatment with deferasirox is a reasonable approach to counteract iron overload in patients with MDS.
Simultaneous core sample measurements of elastic properties and resistivity at reservoir conditions employing a modified triaxial cell – a feasibility study
Authors: Wang Zhong , Gelius Leiv‐J. , Kong Fan‐Nian
Published: March 2009

Adaptations of existing triaxial cells for ultrasonic P‐ and S‐wave measurements are well documented. This paper proposes further modification of such a cell so that also resistivity measurements can be carried out simultaneously at reservoir conditions. By employing the top cap and the pedestal of the cell as electrodes, axial resistivity measurements are now feasible. In order to minimize the polarization effect of this two‐electrode arrangement, careful analyses have been carried out to optimize the choice of electrode coating and measurement frequency band. Radial resistivity measurements are also included in the system by introducing a strap‐electrode system.

In a reservoir under production changes in both saturations, temperature (if steam injection) and stresses can take place. Therefore the modified triaxial system should be able to measure the integrated effects on the acoustic parameters and electric responses caused by variations in each of these parameters. The feasibility of the system to obtain such reliable information is demonstrated, employing a small selection of core samples. In the future such combined measurements on reservoir core samples can be used to link both seismic and electromagnetic observations to the actual earth model and constrain both modelling and inversion.
Severe spontaneous arterial thrombotic manifestations in patients with inherited hypo‐ and afibrinogenemia
Authors: CASTAMAN G. , LUNARDI M. , RIGO L. , MASTROENI V. , BONOLDI E. , RODEGHIERO F.
Published: March 2009

Summary.  We report two novel cases of severe arterial thrombotic episodes occurring in two women with severe hypofibrinogenemia, not linked to the administration of replacement therapy. The first patient had sudden acute occlusion of the anterior branch of left renal artery with infarction of the antero‐lateral region of the upper part of the left kidney during treatment with combined oestrogen‐progestogen started 16 years before for recurrent haemoperitoneum caused by bleeding at ovulation. The second patient showed recurrent arterial thrombosis of lower limbs over 2 years, which eventually led to amputation of affected limbs. Thrombotic events in patients with inherited severe hypofibrinogenemia are rather frequent, may be severe and not associated with the use of replacement therapy.
Vitamin D deficiency in children with haemophilia
Authors: GOWDA MADHU , MASSEY GITA , KUMAR ANIL RAMASWAMY , KHAN ASADULLAH , NOLTE MELINDA , KUHN JANICE
Published: March 2009

Background:  Recent studies have shown that children with severe haemophilia could have moderately reduced bone density compared with gender‐ and age‐matched control subjects. Patients with more established changes resulting from haemophilic joint disease exhibited the lowest bone mineral density. The reason for this includes factors such as lack of weight‐bearing physical activity, lower height and weight reached by these patients, muscle atrophy and hepatitis C seropositivity. A lower peak bone density reached during late adolescence and young adulthood predisposes to the development of osteoporosis in the later years.

Objective:  While Vitamin D and calcium supplementation has been recommended by many authors for haemophiliacs, there are no studies looking at Vitamin D levels in these patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate for the prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency and the need for supplementation in the haemophiliac patients in our centre.

Methods:  The 25‐hydroxy Vitamin D3 (25‐OH D3), calcium, phosphorus and PTH levels were measured in patients between the ages of 1–18 years during their regular visits to the haemophilia centre. A 25‐OH D3 level of >30ng mL−1 is considered as adequate, levels of 21–29 ng mL−1 indicates a relative insufficiency and a level <20ng mL−1 is defined by most experts as being absolutely Vitamin D deficient.

Results:  Of the 33 patients, 21 of them were Vitamin D deficient (63.6%). Calcium, phosphorus and PTH levels did not correlate with Vitamin D levels.

Conclusions:  Vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent in patients with haemophilia in our centre, and given their propensity to develop osteopenia, Vitamin D supplementation is essential in this group of patients. As the calcium, phosphorus and PTH level do not correlate with Vitamin D levels, evaluation of Vitamin D deficiency needs the measurement of serum 25‐hydroxy D3 level. The reasons for a deficiency of Vitamin D in these patients, the amount of supplementation needed and the effect of supplementation of Vitamin D on attaining the peak bone mass density of these patients need to be explored further.

  Vitamin D status in patients with haemophilia (25‐OH D3 level)  

>30 ng mL−1 (normal)
21–29 ng mL−1 (relative insufficiency)
<20 ng mL−1 (severe insufficiency)

<30 ng mL−1 (vitamin D deficiency)

Haemophilia A&B (# of patients)
12
9
12

21/33 = 63.6%
Dose response results of self complementary adeno‐associated virus (AAV) vector‐mediated factor IX gene transfer in non‐human primates
Authors: REISS ULRIKE , DAVIDOFF ANDREW , GRAY JOHN , NIENHUIS ARTHUR , NATHWANI AMIT
Published: March 2009

Objective:  In anticipation of opening a phase I/II clinical trial of adeno‐associated virus (AAV) vector‐mediated factor IX (FIX) gene transfer in subjects with severe haemophilia B, we have recently evaluated the vector dose‐response relationship in nonhuman primates. Our approach differs from prior studies in that the vector (scAAV2/8‐LP1‐hFIXco) used, will: (i) be pseudotyped with serotype 8 capsid; (ii) be delivered by peripheral vein; and (iii) have a self‐complementary genome.

Methods:  The vector scAAV2/8‐LP1‐hFIXco was produced by calcium phosphate mediated two plasmid transient transfection of 293T cells with the virus then being purified using group separation and ion exchange chromatography in our GMP facility, using exactly the same methodology that we propose to use for production of the clinical lot. The titre of the vector prep was determined by qPCR analysis. Male rhesus macaques, previously screened for the absence of serotype 8 humoral immunity, received vector via bolus infusion over 15 min through a peripheral vein. Human FIX expression in the rhesus plasma collected at serial time points following vector administration was determined by our previously validated ELISA.

Summary:  We used four vector dose levels, 2 × 1010, 6 × 1010, 2 × 1011 and 2 × 1012 vg kg−1 body weight, in cohorts of three or four macaques each. No overt toxicity or perturbation in serum biochemistries or other laboratory values was noted in any animal. A nearly linear dose‐response relationship between vector administered and hFIX expression was observed. Mean levels of human FIX 3 weeks following vector administration, expressed as a percentage of normal (5ug mL−1), was as follows: 2% (2 × 1010), 6% (6 × 1010), 25% (2 × 1011) and 200% (2 × 1012) and has remained relatively stable. Of the four macaques given a dose of 2 × 1010 vg kg−1, one initially had a FIX level of nearly 10% that has remained at 8% for several weeks. A second animal peaked at 1% but hFIX is now undetectable. Two macaques never had detectable hFIX expression. Tissue biopsies have demonstrated by qPCR analysis that the vast majority of vector genomes are found in the liver, although they can be detected at other sites including the testis.

Conclusions:  Based on these results, we plan to use 2 × 1010 vg kg−1 as the starting dose in our upcoming clinical trial. We believe that some participants may achieve the target level of 3% hFIX expression at this dose, if we can extrapolate the information we have obtained in rhesus macaques to humans. However, we are prepared to quickly dose‐escalate if this is not the case. Our maximal clinical dose will be 2 × 1011 vg kg−1, 10‐fold lower than the highest dose in this preclinical study (2 × 1012 vg kg−1), a dose that was found to be safe and without toxicity.
Bacterial signalling overrides cytokine signalling and modifies dendritic cell differentiation
Authors: Davies Julie M. , Sheil Barbara , Shanahan Fergus
Published: March 2009

Heterogeneity of dendritic cells (DC) is evident in the gut‐associated lymphoid tissue and determined, in part, by incompletely understood local environmental factors. Bacterial signalling is likely to be a dominant influence on precursor cells when recruited to the mucosa. We assessed the influence of commensal bacteria on DC differentiation and function. Murine bone marrow progenitors were exposed to Lactobacillus salivarius, Bifidobacterium breve or Bifidobacterium infantis. Differences in cell surface phenotype and function were assessed. Myeloid differentiation factor 88−/− (MyD88) cells were used to determine the influence of Toll‐like receptor signalling. While bacterial strains varied in impact, there was a consistent dose‐dependent inhibition of DC differentiation with a shift toward a Gr‐1+ CD11b+ monocyte‐like phenotype. A single bacterium on a per cell basis (1 : 1) was sufficient to alter cell phenotype. The effect was only evident in early precursors. Enhanced interleukin‐10 production correlated with increased Forkhead box P3 expression and reduced T‐cell proliferation. The bacterial effect on DC differentiation was found to be MyD88‐dependent. Signalling by enteric commensals through pattern recognition receptors on precursor cells alters DC differentiation and results in cells that are phenotypically monocyte‐like and functionally suppressive. This may account for some of the features of mucosal immune tolerance to the microbiota.
Interaction of human peripheral blood monocytes with apoptotic polymorphonuclear cells
Authors: Mikołajczyk Tomasz P. , Skrzeczyńska‐Moncznik Joanna E. , Zarębski Mirosław A. , Marewicz Ewa A. , Wiśniewska Anna M. , Dzięba Magdalena , Dobrucki Jerzy W. , Pryjma Juliusz R.
Published: March 2009

Macrophages have the potential to recognize apoptotic neutrophils and phagocytose them while the same function for monocytes is uncertain. In fact, early findings indicated that monocytes started to phagocytose neutrophils on the third day of differentiation to macrophages. Here we show, using flow cytometry and confocal microscopy, that peripheral blood monocytes phagocytose apoptotic but not freshly isolated granulocytes. Recognition of apoptotic cells is predominantly connected with CD16+ monocytes (CD14high CD16+ and CD14dim CD16+) and requires CD36. Clearance of apoptotic polymorphonuclear leucocytes appears to be independent of the CD14 mechanism. Uptake of apoptotic Jurkat T cells by monocytes is CD14 and CD36 dependent. Liposomes containing phosphatidyl‐l‐serine reduce binding of apoptotic polymorphonuclear leucocytes. Lipopolysaccharide‐activated subpopulations of monocytes while in contact with apoptotic cells produce more anti‐inflammatory cytokine interleukin‐10 whereas the production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, tumour necrosis factor‐α and interleukin‐1β is reduced.
The secreted form of p28 subunit of interleukin (IL)‐27 inhibits biological functions of IL‐27 and suppresses anti‐allogeneic immune responses
Authors: Shimozato Osamu , Sato Ayako , Kawamura Kiyoko , Chiyo Masako , Ma Guangyu , Li Quanhai , Tagawa Masatoshi
Published: March 2009

Interleukin‐27 (IL‐27) is a new IL‐12‐related heterodimeric cytokine comprising a novel p28 molecule and the Epstein–Barr‐virus‐induced gene 3 (EBI3) molecules. It augments initiation of T helper type 1‐mediated immunity by enhancing the proliferation and cytokine production of T cells. In this study, we examined whether a secreted form of IL‐27 subunits would inhibit IL‐27‐mediated immunological responses. COS‐7 cells transduced with the mouse (m) p28 gene secreted a monomeric mp28 protein; however, those transduced with the mEBI3 gene did not detect a mEBI3 protein in the culture supernatants. The secreted mp28 prevented the IL‐27‐mediated signal transduction and activator of transcription 1 phosphorylation and subsequently inhibited the IL‐27‐mediated intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 induction and interferon‐γ production in CD4+ T cells. We generated mp28‐expressing murine carcinoma Colon 26 cells and inoculated a mixture of the mp28‐ and mIL‐27‐expressing Colon 26 cells into syngeneic BALB/c mice. Simultaneous production of mp28 and mIL‐27 from Colon 26 cells suppressed IL‐27‐mediated anti‐tumour effects in the mice. We examined the p28‐mediated immune suppression by inoculating mp28‐expressing myoblasts into allogeneic mice. Forced production of mp28 suppressed the allogeneic cytotoxic T‐lymphocyte induction and subsequently retarded the graft rejection. Furthermore, production of both mp28 and mp40, which inhibits the functions of IL‐12 and IL‐23, prolonged the graft survival longer than the grafts expressing either mp28 or mp40. We propose that p28 can be a regulatory subunit for IL‐27‐mediated cellular immune responses and a possible therapeutic agent to suppress unfavourable immune responses.
Disequilibrium of T helper type 1, 2 and 17 cells and regulatory T cells during the development of experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis
Authors: Mu Lili , Sun Bo , Kong Qingfei , Wang Jinghua , Wang Guangyou , Zhang Shujuan , Wang Dandan , Liu Yumei , Liu Yixi , An Huixia , Li Hulun
Published: March 2009

Experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis (EAMG), an animal model of myasthenia gravis (MG), is a rare organ‐specific autoimmune disease targeting the autoantigen nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (AChR). We show here that the balance of T helper type 1 (Th1), Th2, Th17 and regulatory T (Treg) subsets of CD4+ helper T cells were redistributed during the development of EAMG and that the interleukin‐17 (IL‐17) cytokine is involved in this disease. The ratio of Th17 cells changed most notably with disease progression accompanied by an up‐regulated level of IL‐17. Moreover, the proliferative ability of AChR peptide‐specific T cells and the anti‐AChR antibody‐secreting cells increased when stimulated by IL‐17 in vitro. These findings suggested that the disequilibrium of the CD4+ helper T‐cell subsets could promote the development of EAMG, and the pathogenic mechanism by which Th17 cells drives autoimmune responses by secreting cytokine IL‐17 provides a new target for myasthenia gravis therapy.
Modulation of dendritic cell maturation and function with mono‐ and bifunctional small interfering RNAs targeting indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenase
Authors: Flatekval Gro F. , Sioud Mouldy
Published: March 2009

Antigen‐presenting cells expressing indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenase (IDO) play a critical role in maintaining peripheral tolerance. Strategies to inhibit IDO gene expression and enhance antigen‐presenting cell function might improve anti‐tumour immunity. Here we have designed highly effective anti‐IDO small interfering (si) RNAs that function at low concentrations. When delivered to human primary immune cells such as monocytes and dendritic cells (DCs), they totally inhibited IDO gene expression without impairing DC maturation and function. Depending on the design and chemical modifications, we show that it is possible to design either monofunctional siRNAs devoid of immunostimulation or bifunctional siRNAs with gene silencing and immunostimulatory activities. The latter are able to knockdown IDO expression and induce cytokine production through either endosomal Toll‐like receptor 7/8 or cytoplasmic retinoid acid‐inducible gene 1 helicase. Inhibition of IDO expression with both classes of siRNAs inhibited DC immunosuppressive function on T‐cell proliferation. Immature monocyte‐derived DCs that had been transfected with siRNA‐bearing 5′‐triphosphate activated T cells, indicating that, even in the absence of external stimuli such as tumour necrosis factor‐α, those DCs were sufficiently mature to initiate T‐cell activation. Collectively, our data highlight the potential therapeutic applications of this new generation of siRNAs in immunotherapy.
Phthalate ester‐induced thymic stromal lymphopoietin mediates allergic dermatitis in mice
Authors: Shigeno Tomomi , Katakuse Mayako , Fujita Tomoyuki , Mukoyama Yohei , Watanabe Hideki
Published: March 2009

Recently air pollutants and irritants have been labelled as possible exogenous risk factors for allergic disorders. Although the underlying causes of allergic disorders such as atopic dermatitis and asthma remain unclear, the T helper type 2 (Th2) cell‐mediated allergic inflammatory cascade may contribute to their pathogenesis. In the last decade, it has been documented that one of the candidates for triggering Th2 commitment is thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), the expression of which is up‐regulated in the lesions of allergic patients. Here, we describe TSLP function in a fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) ‐induced contact hypersensitivity (CHS) model. A cytokine profile indicated that the model was dominantly mediated by the Th2 milieu. Interestingly, TSLP was increased in the skin during the sensitization phase when stimulated by a solvent, dibutyl phthalate (DBP), but not by FITC hapten or another solvent, acetone. Ear swelling in FITC‐induced CHS was totally abrogated by removing DBP from the sensitization or elicitation phase, and was restored by complementary injection of TSLP. Inversely, the ear swelling was suppressed by injection of small interfering RNA against TSLP during the sensitization phase, which was concomitant with decreasing expression of interleukin‐4 at the swollen skin site. Taken together, DBP‐induced TSLP during the sensitization phase plays a role in establishing FITC‐induced CHS and may be one of the causes of Th2 commitment in the model, suggesting that certain environmental toxins, such as DBP, may endow pro‐allergic and atopic predisposition in humans or animals.
Regulation of T‐cell immunity by leucocyte immunoglobulin‐like receptors: innate immune receptors for self on antigen‐presenting cells
Authors: Anderson Katie J. , Allen Rachel L.
Published: March 2009

Following recognition of microbial patterns, innate immune receptors provide a rapid innate response and trigger antigen‐presenting cell maturation to instruct adaptive immune responses. Here we discuss a family of innate immune receptors for self – the leucocyte immunoglobulin‐like receptors (LILRs). These LILRs exert powerful inhibitory effects on antigen‐presenting cell phenotype and subsequent T‐cell responses, and may act to constrain the effects of Toll‐like receptor signalling. Despite their broad ligand specificity, differing affinities of LILRs for individual complexes of peptide–major histocompatiblity complex can determine the nature of their effect on downstream immune responses. Expression and function of LILRs may be skewed in certain conditions such as cancer or human immunodeficiency virus infection, particularly by ectopic expression of human leucocyte antigen‐G, a high‐affinity LILR ligand. We discuss the relevance of LILR‐mediated immune regulation across a range of scenarios from autoimmunity to transplant medicine, infection and cancer.
Identification and characterization of the doublesex gene of Nasonia
Authors: Oliveira D. C. S. G. , Werren J. H. , Verhulst E. C. , Giebel J. D. , Kamping A. , Beukeboom L. W. , Van De Zande L.
Published: March 2009

The doublesex (dsx) gene of the parasitic wasp Nasonia vitripennis is described and characterized. Differential splicing of dsx transcripts has been shown to induce somatic sexual differentiation in Diptera and Lepidoptera, but not yet in other insect orders. Two spliceforms of Nasonia dsx mRNA are differentially expressed in males and females. In addition, in a gynandromorphic line that produces haploids (normally males) with full female phenotypes, these individuals show the female spliceform, providing the first demonstration of a direct association of dsx with somatic sex differentiation in Hymenoptera. Finally, the DNA binding (DM) domain of Nasonia dsx clusters phylogenetically with dsx from other insects, and Nasonia dsx shows microsynteny with dsx of Apis, further supporting identification of the dsx orthologue in Nasonia.
Factors associated with caregivers’ perception of children's health and oral health status: a study of 6‐ to 36‐month‐olds in Uganda
Authors: WANDERA MARGARET , KAYONDO JOSEPHINE , ENGEBRETSEN INGUNN MARIE S. , OKULLO ISAAC , ÅSTRØM ANNE NORDREHAUG
Published: March 2009

Background.  The impact of oral diseases on quality of life of children and their families has not been thoroughly investigated.

Aim.  Focusing on Ugandan infants aged 6–36 months and their caregivers, this study examined the degree to which clinical and psychosocial factors were associated with caregivers’ overall evaluation of their children's oral health and health status.

Design.  Eight hundred and sixteen children were examined for dental caries and anthropometric status in 2007. A questionnaire was completed by the caregivers.

Results.  Poor child oral health was reported by 40.2% and 17.5% of caregivers who reported their children's health as, respectively, poor and good. Having the least family wealth [odds ratio (OR) = 1.9] and reporting distressed family activities (OR = 2.3) were associated with higher odds of reporting poor child oral health, whereas being a rural resident (OR = 0.4) and reporting no symptoms during tooth eruption (OR = 0.3) were associated with lower odds. Perception of poor child oral health (OR = 2.8) and having the least family wealth (OR = 1.7) were associated with higher odds of reporting poor child health status, whereas no stunting was associated with lower odds (OR = 0.5).

Conclusion.  The results support the growing recognition of oral health as a predictor of health and well‐being in early childhood.
Influence of psychosocial factors on the development of sleep bruxism among children
Authors: SERRA‐NEGRA JUNIA M. , RAMOS‐JORGE MARIA L. , FLORES‐MENDOZA CARMEN E. , PAIVA SAUL M. , PORDEUS ISABELA A.
Published: March 2009

Background.  Bruxism is described as an orofacial parafunction that affects both children and adults. The maintenance of the childhood habit into adulthood may compromise health. As there are few studies on this issue, there is a need for further research on sleep bruxism among children.

Aim.  The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of sleep bruxism in children and the influence of psychosocial factors.

Methods.  A cross‐sectional study was carried out on 652 randomly selected children aged 7–10 years at public and private schools in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. The instruments used were: questionnaire for parents, Child Stress Scale, and the scales on neuroticism and responsibility from the prevalidated Big Five Questionnaire for Children. Psychological tests were administered and evaluated by psychologists. Sleep bruxism among children was reported by parents. The Social Vulnerability Index from the city hall database was used to determine the social classification of the families. The chi‐squared test, binary and multivariate logistic regressions were used, with the significance level set at 5%.

Results.  A 35.3% prevalence of bruxism was found. No association was found between bruxism and stress, gender, age, or social vulnerability. The adjusted logistic model determined that children with high levels of neuroticism (OR = 1.9, CI 1.3–2.6) and responsibility (OR = 2.2, CI 1.0–5.0) are twice as likely to have the habit of sleep bruxism when compared to those who have low levels of these personality traits.

Conclusions.  A high degree of responsibility and neuroticism, which are individual personality traits, are determinant factors for the development of sleep bruxism among children.
Assessment of the quality of reporting of randomized clinical trials in paediatric dentistry journals
Authors: AL‐NAMANKANY ABEER A. , ASHLEY PAUL , MOLES DAVID R. , PAREKH SUSAN
Published: March 2009

Introduction.  Reporting of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) should be of high quality to support the conclusions reached by the authors. Poor‐quality reporting has been associated with an overestimation in intervention efficacy. Within the field of paediatric dentistry, no study has assessed the quality of reporting.

Objective.  The aim of this study was to assess published RCTs in paediatric dental journals between 1985 and 2006 for: (i) whether quality of reporting allows readers to assess the validity of trials; and (ii) whether quality of reporting has improved since the introduction of the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) guidelines.

Methods.  Hand search of the main paediatric dentistry journals; inclusion criteria were: the trial was performed on children, and RCT. CONSORT guidelines were made into an operational checklist. Trials published between 1985 and 1997, and between 1998 and 2006 were compared to determine any improvement since the publication of the CONSORT guidelines.

Results.  One hundred and seventy‐three of 5635 articles met the inclusion criteria. Reporting quality was poor overall and showed heterogeneity. It had improved slightly since the publication of CONSORT. Few trials were reported adequately.

Conclusion.  The quality of reporting of clinical trials is poor, and often not adequate to allow readers to assess trial validity. Overall quality of reporting has not substantially improved since the publication of CONSORT.
Thein vitroerosive potential of a range of baby drinks
Authors: HUNTER LINDSAY , PATEL SATIN , REES JEREMY
Published: March 2009

Objective. The aim of this study was to assess the erosive potential of a range of commercially available baby drinks in the laboratory.

Methods. The erosive potential of each product was assessed by measuring its initial pH, neutralizable acidity, and ability to erode primary and permanent enamel. These parameters were compared to those of an orange juice positive control.

Results. The initial pH of the baby drinks ranged from 3.5 to 4.0 with their neutralizable acidity ranging from 5.76 to 16.02 mL of 0.1 mNaOH. The amount of primary enamel removed following 1‐h immersion in the drinks ranged from 3.77 to 8.10 microns, while the amount of permanent enamel removed ranged from 1.09 to 4.86 microns. In comparison, the orange juice control (Tropicana smooth) had an initial pH of 3.86, a neutralizable acidity of 37.0 mL of 0.1 mNaOH, and removed 6.39 microns of primary enamel and 5.32 microns of permanent enamel.

Conclusion. All the baby drinks tested were found to be erosive; some of the products were as erosive as orange juice.
Structure, fit and coherence of two circumplex assessments of personality in a population with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Lindsay W. R. , Steptoe L. , Hogue T. E. , Mooney P. , Taylor J. L. , Morrissey C.
Published: March 2009

Background  Little research has been conducted investigating the way in which personality constructs relate to people with intellectual disabilities. The small amount of research that does exist suggests that underlying personality structure may be considerably different to that found in mainstream research. This hypothesis is, however, untested because so little work has been conducted with this population.

Method  Two circumplex models, the Interpersonal Adjective Scales and the CIRCLE, were employed to explore the factor structure, coherence and fit of these models with this population. One hundred and twenty‐three participants from forensic intellectual disability services were rated by staff on the assessments, although not all assessments were completed for all participants.

Results  The factor structures for both assessments conform broadly with a theoretical structure. Hypotheses concerning the magnitude and direction of Spearman's correlations both within and between assessments were generally confirmed.

Conclusion  While results would support the applicability of mainstream personality assessments to this client group, cautions were expressed in relation to the source of the sample and to the method of data collection.
Prolactin Induces Tuberoinfundibular Dopaminergic Neurone Differentiation in Snell Dwarf Mice if Administered Beginning at 3 Days of Age
Authors: Khodr C. E. , Hurley D. L. , Phelps C. J.
Published: March 2009

The hypothalamic tuberoinfundibular dopaminergic (TIDA) neurones secrete dopamine, which inhibits prolactin secretion. TIDA neurone numbers are deficient in Ames (df/df) and Snell (dw/dw) dwarf mice, which lack prolactin, growth hormone and thyroid‐stimulating hormone. Prolactin therapy initiated before 21 days maintains normal‐sized TIDA neurone numbers in df/df mice and, when initiated as early as 7 days, maintains the maximum TIDA neurone numbers observed in dw/dw development, which are decreased compared to those in normal mice. The present study investigated the effect of prolactin dose and species on TIDA neurone development. Snell dwarf and normal mice were treated with saline, 5 μg of ovine prolactin (oPRL), 50 μg of oPRL, or 50 μg of recombinant mouse prolactin (rmPRL) beginning at 3 days of age. Brains were analysed at 45 days using catecholamine histofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry for tyrosine hydroxylase or bromodeoxyuridine. Normal mice had greater (P ≤ 0.01) TIDA neurones than dw/dw, regardless of treatment. TIDA neurones in 50 μg oPRL‐treated dw/dw mice were greater (P ≤ 0.05) than those in 5 μg oPRL‐ and rmPRL‐treated dw/dw mice, which were greater (P ≤ 0.01) than those in saline‐treated dw/dw mice. Fifty microgram oPRL‐treated dw/dw mice also had greater (P < 0.01) TIDA neurone numbers than the maximum numbers observed in untreated dw/dw mice development. Among saline, 5 μg oPRL and 50 μg oPRL treatments, but not rmPRL, A14 neurone numbers were higher (P ≤ 0.01) in normal compared to in dw/dw mice. The mechanism of TIDA neurone recruitment was investigated using bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) treatment at intervals after 21 days. Mice treated with rmPRL, but not oPRL, had increased BrdU incorporation in the periventricular area surrounding the third ventricle and median eminence and in the arcuate nucleus. The data obtained in the present study indicate that oPRL, but not rmPRL, when given at a high enough dose, induces TIDA neurone differentiation in dw/dw mice. This supports neurotrophic effects of prolactin on TIDA neurones in early postnatal development that extends beyond maintenance of the cell population.
Brain Sex Differences and the Organisation of Juvenile Social Play Behaviour
Authors: Auger A. P. , Olesen K. M.
Published: March 2009

Juvenile social play behaviour is one of the earliest forms of non‐mother directed social behaviour in rodents. Juvenile social play behaviour is sexually dimorphic, with males exhibiting higher levels compared to females, making it a useful model to study both social development and sexual differentiation of the brain. As with most sexually dimorphic behaviour, juvenile play behaviour is organised by neonatal steroid hormone exposure. The developmental organisation of juvenile play behaviour also appears to be influenced by the early maternal environment. This review will focus briefly on why and how rats play, some brain regions controlling play behaviour, and how neurotransmitters and the social environment converge within the developing brain to influence sexual differentiation of juvenile play behaviour.
A carbon dioxide, heat and chemical lure trap for the bedbug, Cimex lectularius
Authors: ANDERSON J. F. , FERRANDINO F. J. , MCKNIGHT S. , NOLEN J. , MILLER J.
Published: March 2009

Abstract A trap for the collection of bedbugs, Cimex lectularius Linnaeus (Hemiptera: Cimicidae), is described. The trap was baited with CO2 (50–400 mL/min), heat (37.2–42.2 °C) and a chemical lure comprised of 33.0 μg proprionic acid, 0.33 μg butyric acid, 0.33 μg valeric acid, 100 μg octenol and 100 μg L‐lactic acid, impregnated into a gel. Laboratory studies, conducted in a square arena measuring 183 cm on each side, showed that traps with and without baits captured adult bedbugs, but traps with CO2 emissions of 50–400 mL/min caught significantly (P < 0.05) more bedbugs than traps without CO2. In an infested unoccupied apartment, traps with heat and with or without the chemical lure were tested without CO2 on 29 trap‐days and with CO2 on 9 trap‐days. The numbers of bedbugs captured were 656 and 5898 in traps without and with CO2, respectively. The numbers of bedbugs of all development stages captured were significantly greater in traps with CO2 (χ2 = 15 942, d.f. = 1, P < 10−9). A non‐parametric two‐way analysis of variance evaluation of six different traps with or without CO2, heat or a chemical lure monitored over 19 trap‐days in an infested apartment showed that trap type was highly significant (n = 2833 bedbugs collected) (P < 10−7). The trap with CO2, heat and a chemical lure captured more bedbugs than the other traps, but only caught significantly more fourth and fifth instar nymphs than all other traps. Otherwise, the catches in this trap did not differ significantly from those caught by traps that contained CO2 and heat only. The total numbers of bedbugs collected for each trapping date (pooling all six traps) followed an exponential decline over the trapping period. This type of trap, which caught bedbugs in unoccupied apartments with and without furniture, and in an occupied apartment, may have utility in studying the ecology of bedbugs, in detecting bedbug infestations and in reducing numbers of bites by trapping host‐seeking bedbugs.
Effects of skeleton photoperiods on the induction of larval diapause in the Indian meal moth Plodia interpunctella
Authors: KIKUKAWA SHIGERU , ARAKAWA YOUSUKE , HAYAKAWA KANAKO , HAYASHI MIHO , KATOU KOUICHI , KANESHIGE JUNJI , KIMURA MASASHI , NAKAMURA TOMOMI , NAKAMURA YASUHIKO , WATANABE HITOMI
Published: March 2009

Abstract The Indian meal moth Plodia interpunctella Hübner (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) may measure night length to determine its developmental programme with respect to entering diapause or continuing development in the last‐larval instar. Its photoperiodic clock appears to be hourglass‐like, in that the response to a symmetrical skeleton photoperiod consists of two 2‐h light pulses. If the insects read this as lights‐on and lights‐off signals, an oscillator should be involved in the clock system. In the present study, the insects are maintained under a normal photoperiod for 1 day at 25 and 20 °C and then transferred to the skeleton photoperiod or constant darkness (DD) for 1, 2 or 3 days. These photoperiodic regimes are repeated during the larval sensitive stage. There is no difference in the percentage diapause between the effects of skeleton photoperiod and DD treatment. At 25 °C, the incidence of diapause is relatively low under very short days (< 8‐h main photophase) and long (> 14‐h main photophase) days and relatively high under a 12‐h main photophase. At 20 °C, the percentage of diapause is generally high under any photoperiodic treatment. Diapause is prevented slightly under LD 14 : 10 h and 16 : 8 h photoperiods. If the diapause clock is an oscillator that damps rapidly, under DD or constant light (LL) for 5–15 days, it may stop its oscillation but, after exposure to the skeleton photoperiod, the clock system might be reset. There is no difference in the diapause‐inducing effect between the skeleton and normal photoperiodic treatments after DD. The incidence of diapause is moderately high under short days (<12 h) but low under long days (>16 h). On the other hand, when the insects are exposed to the skeleton photoperiod after LL, the induction of diapause is low, regardless of the interval between the two light pulses in skeleton photoperiods. Under normal photoperiodic conditions after LL, a clear photoperiodic response curve is obtained. Thus, P. interpunctella does not show any sign of the oscillatory function in the night‐time measurement and is regarded as being ‘hourglass‐like'.
Revised systematics and biogeography of ‘Quediina’ of sub‐Saharan Africa: new phylogenetic insights into the rove beetle tribe Staphylinini (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae)
Authors: SOLODOVNIKOV ALEXEY , SCHOMANN ANDREA
Published: March 2009

Abstract Quediina, a mega‐diverse conventional subtribe of the rove beetle tribe Staphylinini, is remarkably species rich in the north and south temperate regions of the world. Tropical faunas of this group, and the fauna of the entire Afrotropical biogeographical region (= Ethiopian region, = sub‐Saharan Africa), in contrast, are remarkably poor. The taxonomic study of the quediine genera of Staphylinini from the Afrotropical region reveals misidentifications for many of them. Their phylogenetic study demonstrates polyphyly of Quediina and reveals a new evolutionary pattern for the entire tribe Staphylinini. In particular, the formerly quediine genera Euristus Fauvel, 1899, Ioma Blackwelder, 1952, Natalignathus Solodovnikov, 2005, all endemic in the Afrotropical region, belong to the non‐related ‘Staphylinina’, ‘Philonthina propria’ and ‘Tanygnathinina sensu novo’ lineages of Staphylinini, respectively. Contrary to earlier records, the genus Quedius Stephens, 1929 does not occur in Africa south of Sahara: Quedius angularis Cameron, 1948 and Quedius cinctipennis Cameron, 1951 are moved to the genus Philonthus Stephens, 1829. The same is established for the Asian genus Algon Sharp, 1874, formerly for a long time associated with Quediina: African species Algon robustus Wendeler, 1928 is moved to the genus Moeocerus Fauvel, 1899 (here in the ‘Philonthina propria’ lineage); and the misidentification of Algon africanus Bernhauer, 1915, a species that probably belongs to a new genus, is discussed. The phylogenetic affiliation of Afroquedius Solodovnikov, 2006, a South African endemic, is still ambiguous. Overall, the formerly seen bipolar distribution pattern for the ‘Quediina’ is demonstrated to be an artefact, not a reality to explain. Historical biogeographical explanations are proposed for some of the Afrotropical endemics, partly as an attempt to apply biogeography as an external criterion for the evaluation of the new phylogenetic pattern revealed for Staphylinini. The monotypic genera Euristus and Ioma, as well as Heterothops megalops Cameron, 1959, the only representative of this widespread genus in the Afrotropical region, are redescribed. Limits and synapomorphies of the genus Heterothops are discussed. The following new combinations and new names are proposed: Philonthus cinctipennis (Cameron, 1951) comb.n. (preoccupied by Philonthus cinctipennis Fauvel, 1875), here replaced by Philonthus pseudoquedius Solodovnikov nom.n.; Philonthus angularis (Cameron, 1948) comb.n.; Moeocerus robustus (Wendeler, 1928) comb.n. [preoccupied by Moeocerus robustus (Gestro, 1881)], here replaced by Moeocerus wendeleri Solodovnikov nom.n. A lectotype is designated for Heterothops megalops Cameron, 1959.