bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Observant, nonaggressive temperament predicts theory‐of‐mind development
Authors: Wellman Henry M. , Lane Jonathan D. , LaBounty Jennifer , Olson Sheryl L.
Published: June 2010

Temperament dimensions influence children’s approach to and participation in social interactive experiences which reflect and impact children’s social understandings. Therefore, temperament differences might substantially impact theory‐of‐mind development in early childhood. Using longitudinal data, we report that certain early temperament characteristics (at age 3) – lack of aggressiveness, a shy‐withdrawn stance to social interaction, and social‐perceptual sensitivity – predict children’s more advanced theory‐of‐mind understanding 2 years later. The findings contribute to our understanding of how theory of mind develops in the formative preschool period; they may also inform debates as to the evolutionary origins of theory of mind.
Using mu rhythm desynchronization to measure mirror neuron activity in infants
Authors: Nyström Pär , Ljunghammar Therese , Rosander Kerstin , von Hofsten Claes
Published: June 2010

The Mirror Neuron System hypothesis stating that observed actions are projected onto the observer’s own action system assigns an important role to development, because only actions mastered by the observer can be mirrored. The purpose of the present study was to investigate whether there is evidence of a functioning mirror neuron system (MNS) in 8‐month‐old infants. High‐density EEG was used to assess the mu rhythm desynchronization in an action observation task where the infants observed a live model. To reduce noise, ICA decompositions were used. The results show a higher desynchronization of the mu rhythm when infants observed a goal‐directed action than when they observed a spatially similar non‐goal‐directed movement. The localizations of the sources are in agreement with those proposed by the MNS hypothesis. This indicates that the MNS is functioning at this age.
False‐belief understanding in 2.5‐year‐olds: evidence from violation‐of‐expectation change‐of‐location and unexpected‐contents tasks
Authors: He Zijing , Bolz Matthias , Baillargeon Renée
Published: June 2010

Until recently, it was generally assumed that the ability to attribute false beliefs did not emerge until about 4 years of age. However, recent reports using spontaneous‐ as opposed to elicited‐response tasks have suggested that this ability may be present much earlier. To date, researchers have employed two kinds of spontaneous‐response false‐belief tasks: violation‐of‐expectation tasks have been used with infants in the second year of life, and anticipatory‐looking tasks have been used with toddlers in the third year of life. In the present research, 2.5‐year‐old toddlers were tested in violation‐of‐expectation tasks involving a change‐of‐location situation (Experiment 1) and an unexpected‐contents situation (Experiment 2). Results were positive in both situations, providing the first demonstrations of false‐belief understanding in toddlers using violation‐of‐expectation tasks and, as such, pointing to a consistent and continuous picture of early false‐belief understanding.
UNIONS, MONOPOLISTIC COMPETITION AND THE OPTIMAL MONETARY REGIME
Authors: James Jonathan G. , Lawler Phillip
Published: June 2010

This paper considers the optimal monetary regime in a monopolistically competitive economy where wages are set by non‐atomistic (i.e. large) unions. In such a context, the conduct of monetary policy is known to influence not only the equilibrium inflation rate, but also equilibrium employment. Previous contributions which have examined this scenario have commonly concluded that a low degree of accommodation of wages and prices is optimal. This study shows, however, that the framework's principal features imply a highly accommodating policy stance can potentially achieve a superior outcome and, indeed, despite its character, is able to both eliminate unemployment and deliver zero inflation.
Errors expected: the culture of credit in rural New England, 1750–1800
Authors: VICKERS DANIEL
Published: June 2010

This article uses farm diaries from eighteenth‐century New England recast as account books in order to describe more accurately the rules of exchange and the culture of credit that prevailed in early America. This culture, which was post‐medieval yet pre‐modern, derived its fundamental characteristics from the fact that it connected participants who dealt with one another as formal equals before the law. It employed strategies inside and outside the market, and, rather than embracing or rejecting commercial activity, aimed to use whatever means necessary to achieve for householders the goal of comfortable independence.
Advertising, promotion, and the competitive advantage of interwar British department stores
Authors: SCOTT PETER , WALKER JAMES
Published: June 2010

Promotional activity proved key to the success of department stores in fending off competition from the expanding chain stores, by drawing in customers to their large, central premises. This article uses a combination of quantitative and qualitative archival data to examine the promotional methods of interwar British department stores, variations in the promotional mix between types of store, and returns to promotional activities. A number of distinct regional promotional strategies are identified, shaped by variations in the types of consumer markets served. We also find considerable policy convergence among stores towards using promotional activity primarily as a means of imprinting a strong institutional brand image in the minds of the consuming public.
What Assertion Doesn't Show
Authors: McHugh Conor
Published: June 2010

Abstract: Some recent arguments against the classical invariantist account of knowledge exploit the idea that there is a ‘knowledge norm’ for assertion. It is claimed that, given the existence of this norm, certain intuitions about assertability support contextualism, or contrastivism, over classical invariantism. In this paper I show that, even if we accept the existence of a knowledge norm, these assertability‐based arguments fail. The classical invariantist can accommodate and explain the relevant intuitions about assertability, in a way that retains the idea that knowledge is the epistemic norm for assertion. When we consider the role of assertion as a conversational act, it becomes plausible that a subject's epistemic warrant to assert can be defeated even though she has knowledge. This defeasibility thesis is what allows the classical invariantist to accommodate and explain the kinds of intuitions on which assertability‐based arguments depend.
Review Article: A new wrinkle on old skin: the role of elastic fibres in skin ageing
Authors: Langton A. K. , Sherratt M. J. , Griffiths C. E. M. , Watson R. E. B.
Published: June 2010

Synopsis

Cutaneous ageing is the result of two distinct, biological processes which may occur concurrently: (i) the passage of time, termed intrinsic ageing and (ii) environmental influences, termed extrinsic ageing. Intrinsic ageing of the skin is a slow process which causes changes in tissue structure and impairs function in the absence of additional biological, chemical and physical factors. The clinical features of intrinsically aged skin are not usually evident until old age when, although smooth and unblemished, the skin surface appears pale and is characterized by fine wrinkles with occasional exaggerated expression lines. Functionally, intrinsically aged skin is dry and less elastic than more youthful skin. In contrast, extrinsically aged skin is exemplified by deep, coarse wrinkles, mottled hyperpigmentation and a marked loss of elasticity and recoil. The two major environmental influences which induce extrinsic ageing are: (i) chronic exposure to solar ultraviolet (UV) irradiation (termed photoageing) and (ii) smoking. This review discusses the changes associated with the ageing process in the skin, with particular emphasis on the role played by the elastic fibre network in maintaining dermal function. The review concludes with a discussion of a short‐term assay for independent assessment of the efficacy of anti‐ageing cosmetic products using the elastic fibre component fibrillin‐1 as a biomarker of extracellular matrix repair.
International consensus recommendations on the aesthetic usage of botulinum toxin type A (Speywood Unit) – part II: wrinkles on the middle and lower face, neck and chest
Authors: Ascher B , Talarico S , Cassuto D , Escobar S , Hexsel D , Jaén P , Monheit GD , Rzany B , Viel M
Published: June 2010

Background  Azzalure® (Galderma SA), a newly approved European botulinum neurotoxin type A (BoNT‐A), is derived from Dysport™ (Ipsen Ltd.), which has a 20‐year history of product consistency and has been widely used for various aesthetic and therapeutic applications. Azzalure® and Dysport™ are collectively referred to as BoNT‐A (Speywood Unit) after the unit of their activity, and are distinct from other commercial BoNT‐A preparations. Consensus has been developed for the treatment of upper facial wrinkles with BoNT‐A (Speywood Unit).

Objective  To provide consensus recommendations on the treatment with BoNT‐A (Speywood Unit) for wrinkles on the middle and lower face, neck and chest region.

Methods  The members of the International Board on Botulinum toxin Azzalure (IBBA) convened to develop consensus based on their extensive experience.

Results  The recommended final concentration of BoNT‐A (Speywood Unit) is 200 Speywood Units/ml after reconstitution. The consensus recommendations were provided for nine indications, including lower eyelid wrinkles, bunny lines, drooping nasal tip, perioral wrinkles, masseter hypertrophy, drooping mouth corners, dimpled chin, platysmal bands and décolleté wrinkles. For each indication, anatomy of the region to be treated was discussed, as were potential side‐effects. The consensus recommendations included the number and location of the injection points, dose range of each point and the total injection, as well as specific injection technique.

Conclusion  These recommendations provide a guideline for physicians who wish to perform safe and efficacious treatment with BoNT‐A (Speywood Unit) on the less commonly treated middle and lower face, neck and chest region.
CFTR Rearrangements in Spanish Cystic Fibrosis Patients: First New Duplication (35kb) Characterised in the Mediterranean Countries
Authors: Ramos María D. , Masvidal Laia , Giménez Javier , Bieth Eric , Seia Manuela , Georges Marie des , Armengol Lluís , Casals Teresa
Published: June 2010

Developments in quantitative PCR technologies have greatly improved our ability to detect large genome rearrangements. In particular oligonucleotide‐based array comparative genomic hybridisation has become a useful tool for appropriate and rapid detection of breakpoints. In this work, we have analysed 80 samples (42 unknown CF alleles) applying three quantitative technologies (MLPA, qPCR and array‐CGH) to detect recurrent as well as novel large rearrangements in the Spanish CF population. Three deletions and one duplication have been identified in five alleles (12%). Interestingly, we provide the comprehensive characterisation of the first duplication in our CF cohort. The new CFTRdupProm‐3 mutation spans 35.7 kb involving the 5′‐end of the CFTR gene. Additionally, the RNA analysis has revealed a cryptic sequence with a premature termination codon leading to a disrupted protein. This duplication has been identified in five unrelated families from Spain, France and Italy with all patients showing the same associated haplotype, which is further evidence for its likely common Mediterranean origin. Overall, considering this and other previous studies, CFTR rearrangements account for 1.3% of the Spanish CF alleles.
The effect of heat treatment of ovine milk on the compositional and sensory properties of set yoghurt
Authors: ZAMBERLIN ŠIMUN , POGAČIĆ TOMISLAV , MAHNET STJEPAN , GOLEM ŽELJKA , HAVRANEK JASMINA , SAMARŽIJA DUBRAVKA
Published: June 2010

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of heat treatment of ovine milk at 60 °C/5 min and 90 °C/5 min (control group) on the compositional and sensory properties of set yoghurt (n = 40). The concentration of apparent casein and total whey protein were significantly higher while sensory properties (except consistency) were not significantly different from the yoghurts in control group (P < 0.05). The results showed that ovine set yoghurt produced by heat treatment at low temperature possessed higher amount of preserved inherent functional and nutritional properties of milk than yoghurt produced by heat treatment at high temperature.
The Accelerating Biophysical Contradictions of Industrial Capitalist Agriculture
Authors: WEIS TONY
Published: June 2010

The productivity of industrial capitalist agriculture is central to dominant development narratives. It is also highly unstable, with intractable biophysical problems created in the substitution of labour, skill and knowledge with technology, and overridden with unsustainable ‘technological fixes’ and masked by a host of externalized costs. Relatively cheap oil is central to this, effectively subsidizing the low‐priced industrial grains and oilseeds on which global food security has come to hinge. However, the chronic biophysical contradictions of industrial capitalist agriculture are accelerating, at the same time as the surge in biofuels has augmented the still‐rising demand of livestock feed to embolden industrial producers. A period of acute and ominously regressive food price volatility looms in the short term, with more ruinous outcomes ahead. But this might also widen openings for rebuilding biodiverse food systems and remaking and valorizing agricultural work, which will involve rethinking agriculture's place in conceptions of development and modernity.
Platinum‐based adjuvant chemotherapy for early‐stage epithelial ovarian cancer: single or combination chemotherapy?
Authors: Adams G , Zekri J , Wong H , Walking J , Green JA
Published: June 2010

Please cite this paper as: Adams G, Zekri J, Wong H, Walking J, Green J. Platinum‐based adjuvant chemotherapy for early‐stage epithelial ovarian cancer: single or combination chemotherapy? BJOG 2010;117:1459–1467.

Objective  To evaluate the clinical benefit and toxicity of two regimens; single agent carboplatin (C) and a carboplatin/paclitaxel (CP) combination in early epithelial ovarian cancer.

Design  A retrospective review.

Setting  Single cancer centre serving a population of 2.1 million in the northwest of England.

Population  All women treated with adjuvant chemotherapy for International Federation of Obstetrics and Gynecology stage Ia–IIc ovarian cancer between 2002 and 2005.

Methods  Case and operation notes were reviewed. Details of the surgery performed, performance status (PS), tumour histology, stage, grade, intended chemotherapy, chemotherapy received, acute and late toxicity, relapse and death were all recorded.

Main outcome measures  Overall survival (OS), relapse‐free survival (RFS), acute and late toxicity.

Results  Sixty women received CP and 35 received C. Younger women (P < 0.0001) and those with a better performance status (P = 0.045) were more likely to receive CP. Median follow up was 38 months (range 0–70). Five‐year OS was 62% (95% CI 44–81%) for C and 73% (95% CI 61–85%) for CP P = 0.316. For the subgroup with stage I disease and good PS (0/1) 5‐year OS was 80% (59–100%) for C and 79% (63–95%) for CP; P = 1.0. For those with stage 2 disease, 5‐year OS was 29% (95% CI 0–62%) for C and 63% (95% CI 44–82%) for CP; P = 0.025. Subgroup analyses by grade or histology showed no difference in OS. P was discontinued prematurely in nine (15%) women on account of toxicity, whereas C was not stopped early. P‐related neuropathy (G1/2) was reported in ten (17%) women at 6 months and in two (3%) at 1 year.

Conclusions  Combination therapy is administered more often than carboplatin; especially in those with younger age, better PS and nonmucinous histology. Recurrence and death rates were similar with both treatments. Well‐designed trials are needed to identify the optimum chemotherapy regimen in this group.
HRAS1 and LASS1 with APOE are associated with human longevity and healthy aging
Authors: Jazwinski S. Michal , Kim Sangkyu , Dai Jianliang , Li Li , Bi Xiuhua , Jiang James C. , Arnold Jonathan , Batzer Mark A. , Walker Jerilyn A. , Welsh David A. , Lefante Christina M. , Volaufova Julia , Myers Leann , Su L. Joseph , Hausman Dorothy B. , Miceli Michael V. , Ravussin Eric , Poon Leonard W. , Cherry Katie E. , Welsch Michael A. ,   for the Georgia Centenarian Study and the Louisiana Healthy Aging Study
Published: June 2010

The search for longevity‐determining genes in human has largely neglected the operation of genetic interactions. We have identified a novel combination of common variants of three genes that has a marked association with human lifespan and healthy aging. Subjects were recruited and stratified according to their genetically inferred ethnic affiliation to account for population structure. Haplotype analysis was performed in three candidate genes, and the haplotype combinations were tested for association with exceptional longevity. An HRAS1 haplotype enhanced the effect of an APOE haplotype on exceptional survival, and a LASS1 haplotype further augmented its magnitude. These results were replicated in a second population. A profile of healthy aging was developed using a deficit accumulation index, which showed that this combination of gene variants is associated with healthy aging. The variation in LASS1 is functional, causing enhanced expression of the gene, and it contributes to healthy aging and greater survival in the tenth decade of life. Thus, rare gene variants need not be invoked to explain complex traits such as aging; instead rare congruence of common gene variants readily fulfills this role. The interaction between the three genes described here suggests new models for cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying exceptional survival and healthy aging that involve lipotoxicity.
Impact Behaviour of Panels for Automotive Applications
Authors: Reis P. N. B. , Ferreira J. A. M. , Rodrigues N. F. S.
Published: June 2010

Abstract:  Present article presents the results of a current study concerning the low‐velocity impact behaviour of some materials potentially applicable in the automotive industry. The materials tested were as follows: the 1050 H24 aluminium alloy, the Docol 1000 and Docol 1200 high‐strength steel plates and an aluminium/Pecolit sandwich. The impact energy, maximum force, damage size and elastic recuperation were measured. The results for the different materials were compared not only in terms of absolute values, but also in terms of the specific values. The highest values of specific impact energy and specific critical impact force were obtained for Docol 1200, about 62 and 84%, respectively, higher than the values obtained for 1050 H24 aluminium alloy and about 46 and 56% higher than the values obtained for aluminium/Pecolit sandwich. This material was therefore considered the best choice to prevent impact damage.
Artificial Neural Network for Creep Behaviour Predictions of a Parallel‐lay Aramid Rope Under Varying Stresses
Authors: Kmet S. , Sincak P. , Stehlik P.
Published: June 2010

Abstract:  An improvement of the creep behaviour prediction of parallel‐lay aramid ropes under varying stresses is the scope of the following study in which application of artificial neural networks (ANNs) for the prediction of creep under varying stresses is presented. This qualitatively different approach assumes that the ANN can be trained to simulate time‐dependent response of the rope in the given load (stress) programme and time interval. The classic rheological constitutive equations are not needed in this case, because ANN acts as a constitutive operator trained by stresses and the corresponding creep strains from experimental data. Carried numerical experiments were divided into the following three parts: (i) searching the best ANN for a creep behaviour approximation under varying stresses, (ii) investigating the best topology of the selected neural network and (iii) investigating the best results for the creep function identification. Comparison between the experimentally observed creep strains of the parallel‐lay aramid rope under varying stresses, predicted creep strains when the linear creep constitutive equation is applied and predicted creep strains when the obtained Jordan neural network with the 3‐10‐1 topology is used confirmed that the Jordan neural network developed achieved less than half mean square error beside the existing creep constitutive analytical approach.
Modelling of the Behaviour of Aramid Folded Cores Up to Global Crushing
Authors: Baranger E. , Cluzel C. , Guidault P.‐A.
Published: June 2010

Abstract:  This study presents the basic ingredients needed to model the out‐of‐plane compression behaviour of a folded core up to the global peak load. This core is made of an aramid paper. The proposed approach is both experimental and numerical and handles the problem at different scales: fibre, paper and core scales. To have a good representation of the physics, two key points are essential. The first is the mechanical behaviour of the paper. The aramid paper can be modelled as a laminate composite. An experimental study of the paper behaviour in bending has been conducted to build a damage model for the paper. The second key point concerns the geometrical defects of the folded core. The defects, arising from the manufacturing process, are built by simulation of the folding process. The macroscopic behaviour of the core under out‐of‐plane compression loading is shown to be very sensitive to these defects. The results of a simulated crushing test are compared to experimental ones. A good agreement is shown.
Corrosion Process and Mechanisms of Corrosion‐Induced Cracks in Reinforced Concrete identified by AE Analysis
Authors: Ohtsu M. , Mori K. , Kawasaki Y.
Published: June 2010

Abstract:  Concrete structures could suffer from the corrosion of reinforcing steel bars (rebars) because of the penetration of chloride ions. For crack detection and damage evaluation in concrete, acoustic emission (AE) techniques have been extensively applied to concrete and concrete structures. In the corrosion process of reinforced concrete, it is demonstrated that continuous AE monitoring is available to identify the onset of corrosion and the nucleation of concrete cracking because of the expansion of corrosion products. At the latter stage, the expansion of corrosion products generates corrosion‐induced cracks in concrete. The generating mechanisms of these cracks are studied in accelerated corrosion tests of reinforced concrete beams. Kinematics of microcracks are identified by SiGMA (Simplified Green’s functions for Moment tensor Analysis) analysis of AE. It is demonstrated that AE activity at the onset of corrosion and at the nucleation of corrosion‐induced cracks is in remarkable agreement with the phenomenological model of the corrosion process in steel. Then, mechanisms of corrosion‐induced cracks are visually and quantitatively investigated by the SiGMA analysis.
Brief Sharp Stabs of Head Pain and Giant Cell Arteritis
Authors: Rozen Todd D.
Published: June 2010

Giant cell arteritis (GCA) should be considered in the differential diagnosis of any new onset headache occurring in individuals over the age of 50 years. Headache is the most common complaint in GCA patients but the clinical characteristics of the headache itself does not help in making a diagnosis as the headache can occur anywhere on the head, not just the temples, be mild to severe in intensity and be dull to throbbing in quality. As other things can cause new onset headache in older individuals, additional clinical symptoms or signs that may suggest GCA as a diagnosis would be useful to clinicians. Two cases are presented that suggests that new onset stabbing headache associated with a new daily persistent headache is a possible diagnostic sign for a diagnosis of GCA. Nothing in the literature to date has mentioned new onset stabbing headache as part of the presenting symptom complex for GCA.
Essential services, personnel, and facilities in specialized epilepsy centers—Revised 2010 guidelines
Authors: Labiner David M. , Bagic Anto I. , Herman Susan T. , Fountain Nathan B. , Walczak Thaddeus S. , Gumnit Robert J. ,   for the National Association of Epilepsy Centers
Published: June 2010

This document was developed by the members of the Committee to Revise the Guidelines for Services, Personnel, and Facilities at Specialized Epilepsy Centers. After discussions with the general membership they were adopted by the Board of the National Association of Epilepsy Centers. The Guidelines will be reviewed and updated when considered necessary by the Board.
Long‐term outcome of brief augmented psychodynamic interpersonal therapy for psychogenic nonepileptic seizures: Seizure control and health care utilization
Authors: Mayor Rebecca , Howlett Stephanie , Grünewald Richard , Reuber Markus
Published: June 2010

Purpose:  Most neurologists endorse psychotherapy as the treatment of choice for psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES), but its effectiveness remains unproven, and there are no previous reports of long‐term outcome after psychotherapy. This study aimed to establish the outcome of brief augmented psychodynamic interpersonal therapy (PIT) for 47 patients with PNES in terms of seizures and health care utilization 31–65 months (median 50 months) after diagnosis.

Methods:  Participants completed questionnaires before starting therapy (Clinical Outcomes in Routine Evaluation Outcome Measure [CORE‐OM]; Patient Health Questionnaire [PHQ15]; Short‐Form Health Survey [SF‐36]). Forty‐seven of 66 consecutive patients (71%) also completed a follow‐up questionnaire about current seizure frequency, employment status, and health care utilization 42 months after the end of therapy (range 12–61 months). Factors associated with seizure outcome and predictors of seizure cessation were evaluated.

Results:  At follow‐up, 25.5% of patients had become seizure‐free; a further 40.4% achieved a seizure reduction of >50%. Logistic regression showed “economic activity” status to be the only significant baseline predictor of seizure cessation (p < 0.021). Health care utilization declined significantly from baseline to follow‐up (p < 0.039), suggesting minimum expected annual health care expenditure savings of £245 ($408).

Discussion:  These results indicate that this intervention is associated with a significant improvement in seizure frequency and health care utilization, suggesting that a randomized controlled study of the intervention is justified.
Lifespan of Commodities, Part II
Authors: Oguchi Masahiro , Murakami Shinsuke , Tasaki Tomohiro , Daigo Ichiro , Hashimoto Seiji
Published: June 2010

Lifespan of commodities is essential information for material flow analysis and material stock accounting. Lifespan data is available in the literature; however, it varies in definition and in methodology employed. This article reviews and categorizes different types of lifespan distribution and distribution estimation methodologies, and investigates the relationship and differences between lifespan definitions and estimation methodologies. Lifespan distribution of commodities can be classified into five types from two perspectives: base year for which the distribution is drawn, and vertical axis of the distribution. The methodologies for estimating lifespan distribution were classified into four types and the details of each methodology and the relationship to the definition of lifespan were also clarified. This article also examines differences in actual lifespan data—between the types of distribution, the definitions, and the employed methodologies—by comparing reported data in literature. Any of the four methodologies are theoretically applicable and provide the same value of a lifespan; however unless accurate data such as census statistics are available, lifespan data can vary, and therefore we must be very cautious about the representativeness of sample data.
Red blood cell (RBC) volume can be independently determined in vivo in the sheep using ovine RBCs labeled at different densities of biotin
Authors: Mock Donald M. , Matthews Nell I. , Zhu Shan , Burmeister Leon F. , Zimmerman M. Bridget , Strauss Ronald G. , Schmidt Robert L. , Nalbant Demet , Freise Kevin J. , Veng‐Pedersen Peter , Widness John A.
Published: June 2010

BACKGROUND: To investigate the pathophysiology of anemia and responses to red blood cell (RBC) transfusions and erythropoietin, repeated measurement of the circulating red blood cell volume (RCV) would be useful. Ovine erythropoiesis is similar to human erythropoiesis. Accordingly, a method for measuring RCV using either human or sheep RBCs labeled at different biotin densities has been previously validated in vitro. Here preclinical studies validating this method for in vivo measurement of circulating RCV in sheep are reported.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: For each sheep, autologous RBCs were biotinylated were at four discrete densities (12, 24, 48, and 96 µg biotinylation reagent/mL RBCs). The densities were mixed and infused intravenously. Blood was sampled five times over 1 hour beginning at 4 minutes. RCV values were determined based on dilution of each population of biotinylated RBCs and by the [14C]cyanate method.

RESULTS: There was no difference among RCVs measured at all densities through 16 minutes; however, by 60 minutes, RBCs biotinylated at the highest density overestimated RCV by 7.6%. RCV values increased 41% over the hour, consistent with equilibration with a pool of RBCs sequestered in the spleen. RCV by the [14C]cyanate method paralleled results by the biotin method but averaged 8% greater.

CONCLUSIONS: These studies provide evidence that all four densities of biotinylated RBCs can be used in sheep to simultaneously and independently determine RCV. We speculate that the multidensity biotinylation method will be useful both for multiple simultaneous measurements and for repeated measurement of circulating RCV and blood volume in humans.
An association between decreased cardiopulmonary complications (transfusion‐related acute lung injury and transfusion‐associated circulatory overload) and implementation of universal leukoreduction of blood transfusions
Authors: Blumberg Neil , Heal Joanna M. , Gettings Kelly F. , Phipps Richard P. , Masel Debra , Refaai Majed A. , Kirkley Scott A. , Fialkow L. Benjamin
Published: June 2010

BACKGROUND: Cardiopulmonary adverse events after transfusion include transfusion‐related acute lung injury (TRALI) and transfusion‐associated circulatory overload (TACO), which are potentially lethal and incompletely understood.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: To determine whether the incidence of TRALI and TACO was affected by leukoreduction we conducted a retrospective, before‐and‐after study of acute transfusion reactions for the 7 years before and after introduction of universal leukoreduction in 2000, involving 778,559 blood components.

RESULTS: Substantial decreases occurred in the rates of TRALI (−83%; from 2.8 cases per 100,000 components before to 0.48 after universal leukoreduction; p = 0.01), TACO (−49%; 7.4 to 3.8 cases per 100,000; p = 0.03), and febrile reactions (−35%; 11.4 to 7.4 cases per 10,000; p < 0.0001). The incidence of allergic reactions remained unchanged (7.0 per 100,000 before and after universal leukoreduction). These outcomes were primarily attributable to decreased TRALI and/or TACO associated with red blood cell (RBC) and platelet (PLT) transfusions (−64%) with notably smaller decreases associated with fresh‐frozen plasma or cryoprecipitate transfusions (−29%). The incidence of TRALI and/or TACO after 28,120 washed RBC and 69,325 washed transfusions was zero.

CONCLUSION: These data suggest novel hypotheses for further testing in animal models, in prospective clinical trials, and via the new US hemovigilance system: 1) Is TACO or TRALI mitigated by leukoreduction? 2) Is the mechanism of TACO more complex than excessive blood volume? and 3) Does washing mitigate TRALI and TACO due to PLT and RBC transfusions?
Geno‐ and phenotyping and immunogenicity of HNA‐3
Authors: Reil Angelika , Wesche Jan , Greinacher Andreas , Bux Juergen
Published: June 2010

BACKGROUND: Alloantibodies directed against the human neutrophil alloantigen (HNA)‐3a are frequently implicated in severe and fatal transfusion‐related acute lung injury (TRALI). The HNA‐3a/3b system results from a single‐nucleotide exchange (461G>A; Arg154Gln) in the choline transporter‐like protein 2 gene. Genotyping may allow identification of blood donors at risk to develop HNA‐3a antibodies.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: A polymerase chain reaction using sequence‐specific primers (PCR‐SSP) for genotyping of HNA‐3a and ‐3b alleles was designed. Results of genotyping and phenotyping were compared in 40 randomly selected individuals and in blood donors and recipients of six TRALI cases associated with HNA‐3a antibodies. Phenotyping was performed by granulocyte immunofluorescence and granulocyte agglutination using typing sera for HNA‐3a and two recently found HNA‐3b–reactive sera. Immunogenicity of HNA‐3a was determined by the rate of HNA‐3a alloantibodies in HNA‐3b homozygous parous women.

RESULTS: Genotyping and phenotyping results correlated to 100% and were in accordance with alloantibody formation and binding in HNA‐3a antibody associated TRALI cases. Gene frequencies of HNA‐3a and ‐3b were 0.792 and 0.207 in the German population with 64.1% homozygous individuals for the HNA‐3a allele, 5.5% for the HNA‐3b allele, and 30.4% heterozygous individuals, in accordance with the Hardy‐Weinberg equilibrium and the gene frequencies of 0.819 and 0.181 reported in 1964. Immunization rates were estimated to be of 7% for HNA‐3a and 0.5% for HNA‐3b.

CONCLUSION: The PCR‐SSP method allows reliable determination of the HNA‐3a and ‐3b genotypes; approximately 7% of HNA‐3b homozygous women develop antibodies when exposed to the HNA‐3a antigen during pregnancy.
A Framework for Unifying Formal and Empirical Analysis
Authors: Granato Jim , Lo Melody , Wong M. C. Sunny
Published: June 2010

An important disconnect exists between the current use of formal modeling and applied statistical analysis. In general, a lack of linkage between the two can produce statistically significant parameters of ambiguous origin that, in turn, fail to assist in falsifying theories and hypotheses. To address this scientific challenge, a framework for unification is proposed. Methodological unification leverages the mutually reinforcing properties of formal and applied statistical analysis to produce greater transparency in relating theory to test. This framework for methodological unification, or what has been referred to as the empirical implications of theoretical models (EITM), includes (1) connecting behavioral (formal) and applied statistical concepts, (2) developing behavioral (formal) and applied statistical analogues of these concepts, and (3) linking and evaluating the behavioral (formal) and applied statistical analogues. The elements of this EITM framework are illustrated with examples from voting behavior, macroeconomic policy and outcomes, and political turnout.
A New Species of the Genus Metacystis (Ciliophora, Prostomatida, Metacystidae) from a Wastewater Treatment Plant
Authors: ARREGUI LUCÍA , PÉREZ‐UZ BLANCA , ZORNOZA ANDRÉS , SERRANO SUSANA
Published: June 2010

ABSTRACT. Unusual prostomatid specimens were found in the biological reactor of a wastewater treatment plant in a health resort in Valencia, Spain. These ciliates were attached to flocs unlike other free‐swimming prostomatid ciliates described to date in the mixed liquor of activated sludge plants. The morphological study of this species led to a typically different combination of characteristics: elongated cell shape, 20–30 somatic kineties, 2 perioral kineties, and 1 circumoral kinety, 1 large vacuole protruding at the terminal end, a lorica tapered toward the aperture with a smooth neck, and 11–16 annular ridges. These characteristics place this representative as a new species of the genus Metacystis—Metacystis galiani n. sp. This species became the dominant population within the biological reactor when high values of conductivity (4,244 mS/cm) and temperature (26.8 °C) were recorded.
Leukoencephalopathy with Anterior Temporal Cysts Due to Congenital CMV Infection Diagnosed Retrospectively
Authors: O'Rourke Declan , Bradley Lisa , King Mary D. , Ryan Stephanie
Published: June 2010

Leukoencephalopathy with subcortical cysts has been described in a variety of conditions. However, few reports have highlighted congenital CMV as a cause of this imaging finding. We report a 1‐year‐old girl with developmental delay and sensorineural hearing loss whose MRI brain showed abnormal white matter and temporal cysts. Congenital CMV infection was diagnosed retrospectively by examination of dried blood spot from the newborn screening card.
Artery‐to‐Artery Embolism with a Mobile Mural Thrombus Due to Rotational Vertebral Artery Occlusion
Authors: Saito Kozue , Hirano Makito , Taoka Toshiaki , Nakagawa Hiroyuki , Kitauchi Takanori , Tanizawa Emi , Yoshida Koichi , Sakurai Yoshihiko , Tamura Kentaro , Nakase Hiroyuki , Yoshioka Akira , Sakaki Toshisuke , Kichikawa Kimihiko , Ueno Satoshi
Published: June 2010

Rotational vertebral artery (VA) occlusion can cause ischemic strokes due to hemodynamic insufficiency and possibly artery‐to‐artery (A‐to‐A) embolism. The former is known as bow hunter's stroke. The latter has been proposed only from indirect evidence. We have described a 7‐year‐old boy with cerebral infarction associated with A‐to‐A embolism due to repetitive rotational VA occlusion. He had a mobile mural thrombus at the VA occlusion site on head rotation. Surgical treatment may effectively prevent recurrences.
Primary Carcinoid Tumor of the Skull Base: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Ibrahim Mohannad , Yousef Mohammad , Bohnen Nicholas , Eisbruch Avraham , Parmar Hemant
Published: June 2010

We present an unusual case of primary intracranial carcinoid tumor of the skull base centered at the level of the foramen jugulare, which was proven with surgical biopsy and later with Somatostatin receptor nuclear medicine scan. We present the salient magnetic resonance imaging features of this rare tumor, describe their characteristic nuclear medicine findings, and briefly review the literature.
Evaluation of a Microconvex Array Transducer for the Ultrasonographic Examination of the Intrathoracic Segments of the Supraaortic Arteries
Authors: Von Sarnowski Bettina , Khaw Alexander V. , Kessler Christof , Schminke Ulf
Published: June 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Due to the geometry of linear array transducers and the anatomy of the supraclavicular, and jugular fossa it is often impossible to get an appropriate ultrasonic view of the intrathoracic segments of the supraaortic arteries and their origin from the aortic arch. We aimed to compare a conventional linear with a microconvex array transducer for their ability to visualize these vessel segments.

METHODS

We examined 21 volunteers for the intrathoracic segments of the common carotid arteries (CCA), subclavian arteries (SA), vertebral arteries (VA), brachiocephalic (innominate) artery (IA), and the visibility of the aortic arch (AA) with a 5.7‐10.0‐MHz linear array and a 3.5‐11.5‐MHz microconvex array transducer.

RESULTS

The most proximal segment of the left CCA (0% vs. 47.6%, P= .0005), the left SA (0% vs. 23.8%, P= .0478), the left VA (47.6% vs. 90.5%, P= .0063), the IA (14.2% vs. 61.9%, P= .0036), and the AA (4.8% vs. 52.4%, P= .0014) were significantly more often visualized with the microconvex than with the linear probe.

CONCLUSION

Due to its much smaller contact surface, the microconvex array transducer revealed a better and more extended view of the intrathoracic segments of the supraaortic arteries and the aortic arch.
Radiographic Evidence of Cerebral Hyperperfusion and Reversal Following Angioplasty and Stenting of Intracranial Carotid and Middle Cerebral Artery Stenosis: Case report and review of the literature
Authors: Brus‐Ramer Marcel , Starke Robert M. , Komotar Ricardo J. , Meyers Philip M.
Published: June 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Hyperperfusion is a rare but serious complication following cerebrovascular angioplasty and stent placement. Radiographically identifying hyperperfusion before the development of severe sequelae is difficult, as few diagnostic criteria have been established.

METHODS

A 50‐year‐old woman, initially presenting with 6 weeks of right‐sided hemiparesis and dysarthria, was treated for severe stenosis of the left internal carotid and middle cerebral arteries with intracranial angioplasty and placement of a balloon mounted Wingspan Stent (Boston Scientific, Fremont, CA). Continuous transcranial Doppler monitoring after stent placement indicated developing cerebral hyperperfusion. Concurrent angiography revealed markings consistent with dilatations of small arteries in the vascular territory of the stented arteries. Aggressive blood pressure management started in the procedure and continued postprocedure led to an approximately 40% reduction in systolic blood pressure.

RESULTS

The patient had an uneventful postoperative course and was discharged without development of neurological sequelae. Long‐term (8 months) follow‐up found that hemodynamic parameters in the stented left middle cerebral artery only slightly elevated compared to the unaffected right middle cerebral artery.

CONCLUSION

The high‐resolution angiographic image described here may provide a radiologic indication of the onset or progression of cerebral hyperperfusion, permitting appropriate therapeutic management prior to serious sequelae developing.
De Novo Formation of Cerebral Cavernous Malformation in a Patient with Intractable Epilepsy: Case Report and Review
Authors: Colpan Mustafa Efkan , Uckardesler Levent , Sekerci Zeki , Slavin Konstantin
Published: June 2010

AIM

The exact origin and process of development of cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) is currently unknown. In this article, the authors present de novo CCM formation in a patient with intractable epilepsy and discuss the pathogenesis of CCM in light of several current theories.

CASE DESCRIPTION

A 34‐year‐old man presented with a 10‐year history of intractable seizures. His neurological examination was normal, and the initial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was suggestive of right mesial temporal sclerosis (MTS). Follow‐up MRI study showed development of CCM in the right frontal region. Subsequently, invasive monitoring revealed right temporal seizure source, prompting right temporal lobectomy that resulted in abolition of epilepsy. Histological diagnosis of CCM was confirmed after the lesion was removed in a separate surgery. The patient recovered to normal lifestyle without any complications.

CONCLUSION

This appears to be a first documented case of de novo CCM formation in the setting of intractable epilepsy with ipsilateral MTS. Since the possibility of lesion development cannot be ruled out based on clinical examination, updated imaging and thorough neurophysiological workup are needed for successful treatment of patients with intractable epilepsy.
Brainstem Involvement in Sjögren's Syndrome‐Related Sensory Neuronopathy
Authors: Damasceno Alfredo , França Jr. Marcondes C. , Zanardi Verônica A. , Nucci Anamarli
Published: June 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Sensory neuronopathies (SN) are peripheral nervous system disorders associated with degeneration of dorsal root ganglion neurons. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies have shown abnormalities limited to T2‐weighted high signal intensity in the posterior columns.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A 65‐year‐old woman with Sjögren syndrome had slowly progressive unsteadiness of gait and limb paresthesias. A blink reflex examination suggested a paramedian brainstem lesion, confirmed by MRI.

CONCLUSIONS

Sjögren's syndrome‐related SN may be associated with a more diffuse immune‐mediated aggression, involving also the brainstem, and leading to some of the blink reflex abnormalities observed in nonparaneoplastic SN.
Perfusion CT in Hyperacute Cerebral Hemorrhage Within 3 Hours after Symptom Onset: Is There an Early Perihemorrhagic Penumbra?
Authors: Herweh Christian , Jüttler Eric , Schellinger Peter D. , Klotz Ernst , Schramm Peter
Published: June 2010

INTRODUCTION

In the recent years numerous studies have been undertaken to study cerebral perfusion in the surrounding of intracerebral hemorrhage, addressing the question of whether there is a secondary ischemic damage. Most of these studies found a reduced perfusion adjacent to the hematoma. However, the meaning of these findings remains controversial.

METHODS

We used perfusion computed tomography in 17 patients to study time to peak, cerebral blood flow, and cerebral blood volume as markers of the perihemorrhagic perfusion within 3 hours after symptom onset to search for an early difference between the extent of edema and reduced perfusion.

RESULTS

All patients showed a significant reduction of all perfusion parameters in the perihemorrhagic area, while there was no difference between the latitude of the reduced perfusion and the edema.

CONCLUSION

We did not find a difference between the extension of edema and that of restricted perfusion at a very early time point and therefore could not identify any tissue at risk of ischemia. Our findings suggest reduced perfusion and edema to have a common cause rather than presupposing one another.
Neurovascular Coupling and Cerebral Autoregulation in Patients with Stenosis of the Posterior Cerebral Artery
Authors: Fritzsch Carsten , Rosengarten Bernhard , Guschlbauer Brigitte , Weiller Cornelius , Hetzel Andreas , Reinhard Matthias
Published: June 2010

Neurovascular coupling and cerebral autoregulation are two brain intrinsic vasoregulative mechanisms that rapidly adjust local cerebral blood flow. This study examined if stenotic disease affects both mechanisms in the posterior cerebral artery. Ten patients with altogether 13 stenosed (≥50%) posterior cerebral artery (PCA) sides were studied. In addition, 6 control persons without a PCA stenosis were examined. Cerebral blood flow velocity was assessed from both PCAs with transcranial Doppler sonography; blood pressure was measured noninvasively via fingerplethysmography. Neurovascular coupling was assessed by a control system approach using a standard visual stimulation paradigm. Cerebral autoregulation dynamics were measured from spontaneous oscillations of blood pressure and cerebral blood flow velocity by transfer function analysis (phase and gain). The parameters of neurovascular coupling and cerebral autoregulation did not show relevant differences between controls, nonstenosed sides, and stenosed sides. The 3 severely stenosed PCA sides showed a trend to a minor functional flow velocity change and attenuation of the neurovascular coupling mechanism in relation to sides with moderate stenosis. Phase and gain were not altered on sides with PCA stenosis. We conclude that in a group of patients with mainly moderate stenosis of the PCA neurovascular coupling and dynamic autoregulation dynamics seem to be unaltered.