bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and risk factors of wheeze and eczema in 1‐year‐old children: the Butajira birth cohort, Ethiopia
Authors: Belyhun Y. , Amberbir A. , Medhin G. , Erko B. , Hanlon C. , Venn A. , Britton J. , Davey G.
Published: August 2010

Background
The rising global prevalence of asthma and other allergic conditions has been linked to potential aetiological factors influencing the developing immune system.

Objective
To investigate the prevalence and associated risk factors for wheeze and eczema in 1‐year‐old children in a birth cohort from Butajira, Ethiopia.

Methods
In 2005/6, a population‐based cohort of 1065 pregnant women was established. At 1 year of age, data on wheeze and eczema in the children were collected from the mother via an interview‐administered questionnaire, along with numerous demographic and lifestyle factors. A stool sample was also obtained from the child for geohelminth analysis.

Results
The prevalence of wheeze was 11.5% (103/899) and eczema 8.6% (77/899). Independent predictors of wheeze were maternal allergic history [adjusted OR (AOR)=3.00, 95% CI 1.23–7.36], paternal allergic history (AOR=2.59, 95% CI 1.08–6.25), increasing household size (P for trend=0.023; AOR=3.54, 95% CI 1.31–9.56 for 7+ vs. 1–3 individuals) and paracetamol use by the child (overall P<0.001; AOR 11.04, 95% CI 4.30–28.31 for 4+ tablets in past month vs. never). Factors independently associated with eczema were maternal allergic history (AOR=3.68, 95% CI 1.54–8.77), household size (overall P=0.035; AOR=0.45, 95% CI 0.23–0.87 for 4–6 individuals relative to 1–3) and place of sleeping (overall P<0.001; AOR=0.29, 95% CI 0.10–0.82 for floor vs. bed/platform).

Conclusion
These findings support the hypothesis that eczema in early life in these children is a manifestation of allergy, while wheezing is probably due to infection as well as allergy.

Cite this as: Y. Belyhun, A. Amberbir, G. Medhin, B. Erko, C. Hanlon, A. Venn, J. Britton and G. Davey, Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2010 (40) 619–626.
Polymorphisms of interleukin (IL)-4 receptor alpha and signal transducer and activator of transcription-6 (Stat6) are associated with increased IL-4Rα–Stat6 signalling in lymphocytes and elevated serum IgE in patients with Graves' disease
Authors: Yabiku K , Hayashi M , Komiya I , Yamada T , Kinjo Y , Ohshiro Y , Kouki T , Takasu N
Published: August 2010

Activated interleukin (IL)-4Rα stimulates production of IgE through signal transducer and activator of transcription-6 (Stat6) activation in lymphocytes. Genetic studies have shown an association between polymorphisms in the genes encoding IL-4Rα and Stat6 and elevated serum IgE in patients with atopic disease. Some authors, including us, have reported an association of Graves' disease and elevated serum IgE. To analyse the relationship between IL-4Rα and Stat6 polymorphisms and elevated serum IgE in patients with Graves' disease, 169 patients with Graves' disease were studied. We investigated whether these polymorphisms affect IL-4Rα–Stat6 signalling in cultured human lymphocytes. A high frequency of both the Ile50 polymorphism in IL-4Rα and 13GT repeat variants of the Stat6 gene was observed in patients with Graves' disease and elevated serum IgE (Ile50 allele; P < 0·05, 13GT allele; P < 0·01 versus controls) but not in subjects with normal IgE. Cultured human lymphocytes with the Ile50 IL-4Rα polymorphism and the 13GT repeat variant of Stat6 showed increased IL-4 (and/or IL-13)-induced Stat6 activation (2·7-fold; P < 0·05 and 2·2-fold; P < 0·05, respectively). These findings suggest that polymorphisms in the IL-4Rα and Stat6 genes play an important role in elevation of serum IgE through increased Stat6 action in patients with Graves' disease.
CCL18 in peritoneal dialysis patients and encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis
Authors: Ahmad Sohail , North Bernard V. , Qureshi Ashfaq , Malik Amir , Bhangal Gurjeet , Tarzi Ruth M. , Brown Edwina A. , Tam Frederick W. K.
Published: August 2010

Eur J Clin Invest 2010; 40 (12): 1067–1073

Background  Peritoneal fibrosis manifests clinically as membrane failure or encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis (EPS). There are no clinical or biochemical tests to determine the rate of progression of peritoneal fibrosis. CCL18/pulmonary and activation‐regulated chemokine (PARC) is profibrotic and stimulates collagen production independent of the effect of transforming growth factor beta. This has not been studied in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients.

Materials and methods  We have prospectively studied 106 patients, free from infection/recent peritonitis. A high concentration of CCL18 was discovered by multiplex antibody arrays and quantified by ELISA. Serum and dialysate levels were examined for their prognostic values.

Results  By multiple regression analysis, dialysate CCL18 (6·76 ± 0·66 μg 4 h−1) correlated with increasing membrane transport status (TS) (P < 0·0001) and total glucose exposure/24 h (P = 0·033). Serum CCL18 correlated with high TS (P = 0·0001) and duration of PD (P = 0·001). After 12 months of follow‐up, 57 patients remained on PD while 12 patients were transferred to haemodialysis (HD) and seven developed EPS. Patients who subsequently developed EPS had higher baseline dialysate CCL18 (11·5 ± 3·6 μg 4 h−1 vs. 5·6 ± 0·82 μg 4 h−1, P = 0·03) and serum CCL18 (156·9 ± 12·8 ng mL−1 vs. 124·8 ± 12·2 ng mL−1, P = 0·02) compared with the stable PD group.

Conclusion  This is the first report of high levels of CCL18 in the spent dialysate and serum from long‐term PD patients. These levels correlated with dysfunction of peritoneal membrane transport status, therefore following CCL18 in a longitudinal study may be of interest.
One‐dimensional image analysis of soil structure. I. Principles
Authors: RINGROSE‐VOASE A. J.
Published: August 2010

A one‐dimensional (1‐D) image analysis system, ANOSOL, has been developed which uses test lines to measure the distances in a random direction across and between pore space in images of impregnated soil blocks. Suitable strategies are discussed for both random and systematic sampling using test lines. A comprehensive set of interrelated 1‐D parameters are derived for use as structural indices and their stereological relationship to 3‐D parameters is discussed. The intercept length distributions for both pore space and solid can be adequately described using a three‐parameter model consisting of the weighted sum of two negative exponential functions. The advantages of the parameters chosen are discussed with references to those used by other workers. The importance of choosing, as structural indices, parameters that are stereologically related to the desired 3‐D parameters is also discussed.
The changing scene of British soil science1
Authors: GREENWOOD D. J.
Published: August 2010

The development of soil science has, in the past, been largely driven by the need to improve agricultural production. It is an applied science.

Soils and soil processes have had a profound impact on the development of agriculture, and civilization, throughout the ages. Mistreatment of soil has, over the millennia to the present day, been responsible for horrific human tragedy. The most pressing challenge to soil science is to devise ways of improving food production, at minimum cost, in those areas of the world where food shortages are most acute.

The new era of reducing price support for major agricultural commodities will increase competition in the EC and elsewhere. It will become imperative to improve efficiency of crop production, especially by the introduction of novel techniques, if arable and horticultural cropping in the UK is to flourish.

Soil science is becoming increasingly important in assisting governments to develop policies and in assisting commercial organizations to screen and introduce new chemicals.

There is a wide range of environmental and pollution problems that demand inputs from soil science. They include industrial degradation of soil, entry of toxic materials into the food chain, waste disposal, industrial contamination of the atmosphere and the sub‐sequent effects on soil and vegetation, forest decline, and the improvement of industrially damaged areas to attract new industries and reduce unemployment.

Far greater use should be made of soils information in urban and rural planning and in building design as, at least in some countries, this practice has resulted in considerable financial savings.

Advances in theory, measurement and computing are revolutionizing soil science and will greatly facilitate the application of the subject to practical problems.
A model for predicting the fate of nitrogen fertilizer in lowland ricefields
Authors: SINGH RACHHPAL , KIRK G. J. D.
Published: August 2010

A sensitivity analysis of the model is given for conditions in which there is no plant uptake of N and over the range of conditions likely in tropical lowland ricefields, and the mechanisms governing inorganic carbon, nitrogen and acidity dynamics in the floodwater and soil are discussed. Changes in the rate of CO2 production in the soil, floodwater algal activity and floodwater carbonic anhydrase activity altered diurnal changes in floodwater pH but little influenced the daily mean pH, and consequently little influenced cumulative N loss by NH, volatilization. Soil pH buffer power and rate of urea application also little influenced cumulative percentage N loss. Increases in soil ammonium buffer power, floodwater depth and downward water flux, and decreases in floodwater‐ and air‐turbulence, moderately decreased N loss. N loss greatly decreased with decrease in urea hydrolysis rate and with urea incorporation in the soil. Incorporation decreased N loss more in the absence of standing floodwater. With low urease activity, deep floodwater gave consistently lower N loss; with high urease activity, shallow floodwater gave lower N loss when urea was incorporated.
Liver transplant pathology – messages for the non‐specialist
Authors: Wyatt Judy I
Published: August 2010

Wyatt J I (2010) Histopathology 57, 333–341 Liver transplant pathology – messages for the non‐specialist

This review, based on a presentation at the BDIAP meeting in London 2008, aims to guide histopathologists working outside transplant centres in the differential diagnosis of late post transplant liver biopsies. It focuses on the histological patterns of the late post transplant complications – autoimmune hepatitis, acute and chronic rejection, recurrent viral hepatitis, and biliary disease. Analysis of the character and distribution of inflammatory infiltrate, bile duct changes, and fibrosis by the histopathologist must then be set within the clinical context to arrive at the most appropriate diagnosis. For this reason, review of the biopsy at the transplant centre is recommended. In a broader context, the tabulation of diagnostic features in chronic inflammatory liver diseases produced by the Banff Working Group can, with the exception of rejection, usefully be applied outside the transplant setting.
Accreditation of postgraduate speciality training programmes in Endodontology. Minimum criteria for training Specialists in Endodontology within Europe
Authors:   European Society of Endodontology
Published: August 2010

European Society of Endodontology. Accreditation of postgraduate speciality training programmes in Endodontology. Minimum criteria for training Specialists in Endodontology within Europe. International Endodontic Journal, 43, 725–737, 2010.

This consensus statement from the European Society of Endodontology (ESE) sets out the minimum criteria for training Specialists in Endodontology within Europe. The case is made for recognizing Endodontology as a distinctive dental discipline throughout Europe. Guidelines are presented on the requirements of a specialist and of a specialist training programme in Endodontology. The aims, objectives and curriculum content of a specialist training pathway are outlined, with guidelines on trainee appraisal, and the expectations of faculty and institutional commitment. In publishing these guidelines, the ESE is responding to a public and professional need for consistently high standards of training and specialist clinical service within Europe.
The prevalence of dental caries and gingivitis and their relationship to social class amongst nursery‐school children in Nairobi, Kenya
Authors: MASIGA MARY A. , HOLT RUTH D.
Published: August 2010

Summary. Four hundred and forty‐six children attending nursery schools in Nairobi were examined for caries and gingivitis. Assessment of social class was based on the occupation of the head of the child's household. Amongst 3‐year‐old children, 62% were caries‐free and the mean dmft was 1.35. Amongst 5‐year‐olds 50% were caries‐free and the mean dmft was 1.88. Thirty‐seven per cent of the children had evidence of gingivitis, with the proportion changing little with age. There was no evidence of either caries or gingivitis being significantly related to social class, although children in the higher classes had more filled teeth.

Quatre cet quarante six enfants tréquentant des écoles maternelles à Nairobi ont eu leurs dents examinées en ce qui concerne les caries dentaires et les gingivites. Les classes sociales ont été déterminées par la profession du chef de famille. Les enfants âgés de trois ans étaient sans caries à 62% et l'indice CAO moyen élail de 1,35. Les enfants âgés de cinq ans étalent sans caries à 50% et l'indice CAO moyen de 1,88. Les enfants souffraient de gingivites pour 37% et cette proportion changeait peu avec l'âge.

Le nombre de caries et les gingivites ne semblaient pas en relation avec la classe sociale mais les enfants des classes sociales les plus élevées avaient plus de dents obturées.

446 Vorschulkinder wurden in Nairobi auf Karies und Gingivitis untersucht. Dabei wurde gestützt auf die Angaben zum Beruf des Haushaltsoberhaupts der soziale Hintergrund der Kinder registriert. Unter den 3jährigen Kindern waren 62% kariesfrei. Der DMFT‐Mittelwert betrug 1,35. Unter den 5jährigen Kindern waren 50% kariesfrei und der DMFT‐Mittelwert betrug 1,88. 37% der Kinder wiesen Anzeichen von Gingivitis auf, wobei sich dieses Verhältnis im bezug auf das Alter kaum änderte. Es bestanden keine Anzeichen dafür, daß das Vorkommen von Karies oder Gingivitis signifikant im Verhältnis zu einem bestimmten sozialen Hintergrund stand, obwohl die Kinder höherer sozialer Schichten mehr gefüllte Zähne aufwiesen.

La prevalencia de caries y gingivitis fue determinada en 446 niños que asistían a escuelas pre‐primarias de Nairobi. La determinación de la clase social se hizo basada en la ocupación del responsable de la familia en el hogar del niño. En los niños de 3 años de edad, 62% no tuvo caries y la media cpod fue de 1.35. En los niños de 5 anõs de edad, 50% no tuvo caries y la media cpod fue de 1.88. De los niños, 37% tuvo evidencia de gingivitis con muy pocos cambios en la proporción debido a la edad. No hubo evidencia de caries o gingivitis significativamente relacionada con la clase social aún cuando los niños en la clase social alta tenian más dientes restaurados.
An unusual hypoplastic premolar: a case report
Authors: PERETZ BENJAMIN
Published: August 2010

Summary. This case report describes an unusual hypolastic maxillary first premolar tooth that was diagnosed radiographically in a 10‐year‐old boy. The maxillary primary first molar had been extracted. When the tooth erupted the hypoplasia was seen to be confined to the mesial aspect of the tooth. The cause of this unusual distribution was considered to be either infection associated with the mesiobuccal root of the primary first molar or trauma during extraction of the primary tooth. The tooth was restored using dentine adhesive and posterior composite material.

Description d'une première prémolaire maxillaire hypoplasique, découverte radiologique, chez un garçon de 10 ans.

La première molaire temporaire avait été extraite. Quand la dent a fait son éruption, l'hypopasie était limitée à sa partie mésiale. l'étiologie de cette distribution inhabituelle était soit l'infection de la racine mésiale de la première molaire temporaire ou une extraction traumatique de cette dent. La dent a été restaurée par un composite postérieur collé.

Der Bericht über diesen Fall beschreibt einen aussergewöhnlichen hypoplastischen ersten Oberkiefer‐Premolar, der in der Röntgen‐Aufnahme eines 10 jähr. Jungen entdeckt wurde. Der erste Milchgebissmolar im Oberkeifer war extrahiert worden. Als der Zahn durchgebrochen war, war Hypoplastie nur auf der mesialen seite zu finden. Der Grund für diese aussergewöhnliche Verteilung war entweder die Folge einer Infektion von der mesiobukkalen Wurzel des ersten Milchmolar oder einer traumatischen Extraktion des Milchzahnes. Der Zahn war mit Dentine‐Adhäsiv und Composit nestauriert worden.

Este reporte de caso describe un primer premolar superior hipoplásico diagnosticado radiográficamente en un niño de 10 años de edad. El primer molar temporal había sido extraído. Cuando el diente erupcionó, la hipoplasia estaba limitada en la porción mesial del diente. La causa de esta distribución inusual fue considerada debida a una infección asociada con la raíz mesiobucal del primer molar temporal o a un trauma durante la extracción del primer molar temporal. El premolar fue restaurado con adhesivos dentinarios y un material composite para posteriores.
Localized prepubertal periodontitis in a 5‐year‐old child: investigations and clinical observations over a 3‐year period
Authors: LINDEN G. , FLEMING P. , COULTER W. , LYNN G.
Published: August 2010

Summary. A 5‐year‐old boy presented with persistent generalized gingival inflammation. Clinical and radiographic examination supplemented by immunological and microbiological investigation led to a diagnosis of localized prepubertal periodontitis. The child was subsequently monitored for 3 years and despite treatment there was continued bone loss related to his primary teeth. This case highlights the need for liaison between specialists in paediatric dentistry, periodontology, immunology and microbiology in order to diagnose prepubertal periodontitis and to establish a rational basis for treatment to prevent progression to juvenile periodontitis.

Chez un garçon âge de cinq ans souffrant de gingivite inflammatoire généralisée, l'examen clinique et radiologique complété par un bilan immunologique et microbiologique a mené a poser le diagnostic de parodontite prépubertaire localisée. Cet enfant a été suivi pendant trois ans et malgré le traitement, la perte osseuse s'est poursuivie. Ce cas montre l'importance d'une collabor‐ ation êtroite entre les spécialistes en dentisterie pédiatrique, parodontologie, immunologie et microbiologie pour diagnostiquer une parodontite prépubertaire et établir un plan de traitement rationnel évitant l'évolution vers la parodontite juvénile.

Ein fünf Jähriger Junge hat eine hartnäckige generalisierte Zahnfleischentzündung. Klinische und roentgenographische Untersuchungen, sowie immunitäts‐ und mikrobiologische Nachforschungen erbrachten die Diagnose: ‘Lokalisierte Parodontose in der Vorpubertät’. Danach wurde das Kind für drei Jahreüberwacht und trotz Behandlung, ergab sich weitergehender Knochenverlust in Beziehung zu senem Milchgebiss. Dieser Fall zeigt die Wichtigkeit für ‘liaison’ zwischen Spezialisten in Kinsder‐Zahnheilkunde, Parodontologie, Immunologie und Mikrobiologie. Zum Zweck der Diagnose der Parodontose in der Vorpubertät festzustellen und die Grundlagen für die Behandlung und das Vorbeugen der Progression zur Jugendgerichter Parodontose zu ereichen.

Se presenta el caso de un niño de 5 años de edad con inflamación gingival generalizada y persistente. El examen clínico y radiográfico suplementado con una investigación inmunológica y microbiológica condujo al diagnóstico de periodontitis prepuberal. El niño fue evaluado por 3 años y a pesar del tratamiento, la pérdida ósea asociada a los dientes temporales continuó. El caso enfatiza la necesidad de establecer la relación entre las especialidades de odontología pediátrica, periodoncia, inmunología y microbiología para poder diagnosticar la peridontitis prepuberal y establecer una base racional para su tratamiento para prevenir el progreso a periodontitis juvenil.
Crown and root resorption of a maxillary permanent first molar by an impacted second premolar: a case report
Authors: WATERHOUSE P. J. , NUNN J. H.
Published: August 2010

Summary. A case is described of resorption of the mesial aspect of a maxillary permanent first molar in a 13‐year‐old boy whose maxillary second premolar was impacted. The premolar was partially erupted in the line of the arch and radiography revealed a radiolucent area involving enamel, dentine and cementum on the mesial aspect of the first molar. The first molar was extracted and the premolar erupted normally. The case emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis of developmental abnormalities.

Résorption de la couronne et de la racine d'une molaire maxillaire permanente par une seconde prémolaire incluse: á propos d'un cas

Description d'un cas de résorption de la partie mésiale d'une première molaire maxillaire permanente chez un garçon de 13 ans, dont la deuxième prémolaire était incluse. La prémolaire avait évolué partiellement sur l'arcade et la radiographic montrait une zone radioclaire au niveau de l'émail, de la dentine et du cément de la partie mésaile de la première molaire. La première molaire a été extraite et la prémolaire a évolué normalement sur l'arcade. Ce cas montre l'importance d'un diagnostic précoce des anomalies de dévéloppement.

Eine Kronen und Wurzelresorbition eines oberen ersten bieibenden Molares durch einen impaktierten zweiten Prämolaren: ein Fallbericht

Ein Fall einer mesialen Resorbition eines oberen ersten Molaren eines 13 Jahre alten Knaben wird beschrieben. Der impaktierte Prämolar war teilweise durchgebrochen und Rönt genaufnahmen zeigten Aufhellungen von Schmelz, Dentin und Zement des ersten Molaren. Dieser wurde extrahiert und der Prämolarendurchbruch erfolgte normal. Dieser Fall betont die Wichtigkeit einer frühen Diagnose von abnormalen Entwicklungen.

Reabsorción coronaria y radicular del primer molar permanente maxilar por la impactacion de un segundo premolar: reporte de un caso

Se describe un caso de reabsorción mesial del primer premanente maxilar en un niños de 13 años de edad con el segundo premolar maxilar impactado. El primer molar estaba parcialmente erupcionado y radiográficamente se revelaba un area radiolúcida envolviendo el esmalte, la dentina y el cemento en mesial del primer molar. El primer molar fue estraído y el premolar erupcionó normalmente. El caso pone de manifiesto la importancia de un diagnóstico temprano de las anomalías del desarrollo.
The prevalence of clinically significant anaemia and haemoglobinopathy in children requiring dental treatment under general anaesthesia: a retrospective study of 1000 patients
Authors: MASON C. , PORTER S. R. , MEE A. , CARR C. , McEWAN T.
Published: August 2010

Summary. There is little information on the possible value of screening children who are liable to haemoglobinopathies as part of pre‐operative assessment for dental treatment under general anaesthesia. The present retrospective investigation examined, first, the number of patients having low haemoglobin levels among 1000 patients who had undergone haematological investigation prior to general anaesthesia in a dental outpatient unit, and, secondly, the subsequent clinical management of these patients. Haemoglobin levels of 10.0 g/dl or less were found in 31 children: 13 Asian, 7 Afro‐Caribbean, 5 Mediterranean, 3 Arabic, I white Caucasian and 2 Oriental children. In addition, 17 patients had sickle‐cell trait and 2 had β‐thalassaemia trait, but there was no relationship between the presence of haemoglobinopathy and low levels of haemoglobin. The planned general anaesthesia was undertaken for 22 of the 31 children who had low levels of haemoglobin and for the 19 children with haemoglobinopathy. Only 6 children ultimately did not undergo general anaesthesia, all failing to return. It is concluded that pre‐anaesthetic haematological assessment of children needing minor dental surgery is rarely of any significant clinical value.
The oro‐facial manifestations of trisomy 8 mosaicism: a case report
Authors: HENDERSON N. J. , CRAWFORD PETER J. M.
Published: August 2010

Summary. Trisomy 8 mosaicism is a relatively common autosomal chromosomal disorder characterized by features such as mental retardation, characteristic facies, skeletal abnormalities and congenital heart disease. The case of a 4‐year‐old boy is described with particular reference to the oro‐facial manifestations, which included cleft palate, pronounced anterior open bite, complete reversed unilateral buccal cross‐bite, slightly increased width of alveolar processes, and gingival enlargement.

Manifestations faciales et orales de la trisomie 8 mosaïsme: à propos d'un cas

Le mosasme de la trisomie 8 est une anomalie chromosomale autosomale et fréquente, caractérisés par un retard mental, des traits faciaux caratéristiques, des anomalies du squelette et une cardiopathie congénitale. Le cas de ce garçon de quatre ans est décrit, en particulier les manifestations oro‐faciales avec fente palatine, béance anterieure importante, inversé d'articulé unilatéral, petite augmentation de la largeur des procès alvéolaires et hypertrophic de la gencive.

Die Mund‐Gesichts Erscheinungs form von Trisomie 8 Mosaicism

Trisome 8 Mosaicism ist eine relativ gewöhnliche autosom chromosomale Krankheit, charakteristisch für geishtige Retardierung, typische Gesicht, Skelett abnormalität und eine augeborene Krankheit. Der Fall eines vierjähnigen Jungen ist beschrieben mit genauer Referenz von den Mund‐Gesichts Erscheinungen, mit Gaiomeuspalte, mit ausgesprochenem, Vorderem offenen Biss, mit roll‐ständigem, umgeltehetem, unilateralem Kreuzbiss, ein bissilen grösser werchender alveolarfortsatz und zahnfleisch Erweiterung.

Manifestaciones oro‐faciales de la trisonomía 8: reporte de un caso

El mosaicismo de trisonomía 8 es una anomalía cromosomática autosomática relativamente frecuente caracterizada por signos como retardo mental, características faciales, anormalidades esqueléticas, y enfermedad congénita del corazón. Se describe el caso de un niño de 4 años de edad haciendo énfasis en las manifestaciones orofaciales, las cuales incluían labio leporino, mordida abierta anterior pronunciada, mordida cruzada revertida, ligero aumento en la anchura del proceso alveolar y agrandamiento gingival.
Infraocclusion of primary molars in monozygotic twins: report of two cases
Authors: DEWHURST S. N. , HARRIS J. C. , BEDI R.
Published: August 2010

Summary. Genetic factors have been implicated in the aetiology of infraocclusion, but only three published reports describe infraocclusion of primary molars in twins. This case report describes the occurrence of infraocclusion in two pairs of twins. The distribution of affected teeth and the severity of infraocclusion were strikingly similar in each pair. The report provides further evidence of a genetic contribution to the aetiology of the condition, and also highlights the need to examine siblings, and especially twins, of children who present with an infraoccluded primary tooth.

Infraclusion de molaires temporaires chez des jumeaux monozygotes: description de deux cas

Des facteurs génétiques ont été mis en cause dans l'étiologie de l'infraclusion mais seulement trois publications décrivent l'infraclusion de molaires temporaires chez des jumeaux. Le cas décrit étudie la fréquence de l'infraclusion chez deux paires de jumeaux. La distribution des dents atteintes et l'importance de l'infraclusion étaient étonnamment similaires dans chaque paire. Cette étude donne des arguments complémentaires au facteur génétique dans l'étiologie de cette pathologie et aussi renforce l'importance d'examiner la fratrie, spécialement les jumeaux, des enfants qui ont des molaires en infraclusion.

Die Infraokklusion von Milchmolaren bei monozygotische Zwillinge: ein Bericht von 2 Fällen

Genetische Faktore werden als Ursache der Infraokklusion angenommen; aber nur 3 veröffentliche Berichte beschreiben die Infraokklusion von Milchmolaren bei Zwillinge. Dieser Bericht beschreibt das Auftreten der Infraokklusion bei 2 Paare von Zwillinge. Die Verteilung der betrofienen Zähne und der Grad der Infraokklusion waren genau gleich innerhalb jedes Zwillingspaares. Dieser Bericht liefert einen zusätzlichen Beweis des genetischen Einflusses auf die Aetiologie dieser Infraokklusion und bestätigt die Wichtigkeit der Zwillingsforschung.

InfraoclusiÓn de molares temporales en mellizos monociqÓticos: repote de dos casos

Factores genéticos han sido implicados en la etiologia de la infraoclusiÓn, pero solo tres casos han sido reportados en molares temporales de mellizos. Este reporte de caso describe la ocurrencia de infraoclusiÓn en dos pares de mellizos. La distribuciÓn de los dientes afectados y la severidad de la infraoclusiÓn fureron marcadamente similares en cada pareja de mellizos. Este reporte provee evidencia adicional de la contribuciÓn genética a la etiologia de la condiciÓn y tambien enfatiza la necesidad de examinar a los hermanos, especial‐mente de mellizos, de niños que se presentan a la clinica con molares infraocluídos.
Phylogeography of Podocarpus matudae (Podocarpaceae): pre‐Quaternary relicts in northern Mesoamerican cloud forests
Authors: Ornelas Juan Francisco , Ruiz‐Sánchez Eduardo , Sosa Victoria
Published: August 2010

Aim  Cloud forests of northern Mesoamerica represent the northern and southern limit of the contact zone between species otherwise characteristic of North or South America. Several phylogeographic studies featuring temperate conifer species have improved our understanding of species responses to environmental changes. In contrast, conifer species that presumably colonized northern Mesoamerica from South America are far less studied. A phylogeographic study of Podocarpus matudae (Podocarpaceae) was conducted to identify any major evolutionary divergences or disjunctions across its range and to determine if its current distribution is associated with pre‐Quaternary climatic and/or long‐distance dispersal events.

Location  Northern Mesoamerica (Mexico and Guatemala).

Methods  Sixteen populations (157 individuals) of P. matudae were screened for variation at two plastid DNA markers. The intra‐specific phylogenetic relationships among haplotypes were reconstructed using Bayesian inference. Population genetic analyses were undertaken to gain insight into the evolutionary history of these populations. To test whether genetic divergence among populations occurred at different time‐scales plastid DNA sequence data and fossil‐ and coalescent‐based calibrations were integrated.

Results  The combination of plastid markers yielded 11 haplotypes. Differentiation among populations based on DNA variation (GST) (0.707, SE 0.0807) indicated a clear population structure in P. matudae. Differentiation for ordered alleles (NST) (0.811, SE 0.0732) was higher than that for GST, indicating phylogeographical structure in P. matudae. Most of the total variation (81.3%, P < 0.0001) was explained by differences among populations. The estimated divergence time between the unique haplotypes from a Guatemalan population and the two most common haplotypes from the Sierra Madre Oriental in Mexico was between 10 and 20 Ma, and further haplotype divergence in the poorly resolved clade of the Sierra Madre Oriental occurred between 3 and 0.5 Ma.

Main conclusions  Divergence estimations support the hypothesis that extant Podocarpus matudae populations are pre‐Quaternary relicts. This finding is consistent with fossil and pollen data that support a Miocene age for temperate floristic elements in Mesoamerican cloud forests, whereas further haplotype divergence within the Sierra Madre Oriental, Chiapas and Guatemala occurred more recently, coinciding with Pleistocene cloud forest refugia.
Validating a conceptual model for an inter‐professional approach to shared decision making: a mixed methods study
Authors: Légaré France , Stacey Dawn , Gagnon Susie , Dunn Sandy , Pluye Pierre , Frosch Dominick , Kryworuchko Jennifer , Elwyn Glyn , Gagnon Marie‐Pierre , Graham Ian D.
Published: August 2010

Rationale, aims and objectives  Following increased interest in having inter‐professional (IP) health care teams engage patients in decision making, we developed a conceptual model for an IP approach to shared decision making (SDM) in primary care. We assessed the validity of the model with stakeholders in Canada.

Methods  In 15 individual interviews and 7 group interviews with 79 stakeholders, we asked them to: (1) propose changes to the IP‐SDM model; (2) identify barriers and facilitators to the model's implementation in clinical practice; and (3) assess the model using a theory appraisal questionnaire. We performed a thematic analysis of the transcripts and a descriptive analysis of the questionnaires.

Results  Stakeholders suggested placing the patient at its centre; extending the concept of family to include significant others; clarifying outcomes; highlighting the concept of time; merging the micro, meso and macro levels in one figure; and recognizing the influence of the environment and emotions. The most common barriers identified were time constraints, insufficient resources and an imbalance of power among health professionals. The most common facilitators were education and training in inter‐professionalism and SDM, motivation to achieve an IP approach to SDM, and mutual knowledge and understanding of disciplinary roles. Most stakeholders considered that the concepts and relationships between the concepts were clear and rated the model as logical, testable, having clear schematic representation, and being relevant to inter‐professional collaboration, SDM and primary care.

Conclusions  Stakeholders validated the new IP‐SDM model for primary care settings and proposed few modifications. Future research should assess if the model helps implement SDM in IP clinical practice.
GB virus C infection among young, HIV‐negative injection drug users with and without hepatitis C virus infection
Authors: Boodram B. , Hershow R. C. , Klinzman D. , Stapleton J. T.
Published: August 2010

Summary.  Our study examined the association between GB virus C (GBV‐C) and (i) hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection status, (ii) biomedical indicators of liver disease (alanine and aspartate aminotransferases) and (iii) HCV RNA level among young injection drug users (IDUs) recruited using street outreach and respondent‐driven methods. Cross‐sectional and longitudinal analyses were completed. GBV‐C (active or resolved) infection was significantly (P < 0.05) more prevalent among HCV antibody‐positive (anti‐HCV+) (65.1%) than antibody‐negative (anti‐HCV−) (32.3%) (OR = 3.9, 95% CI: 2.3–6.9) IDUs. The prevalence of resolved GBV‐C infection was highest among those with chronic HCV infection (41.9%), followed by those with resolved HCV infection (34.4%) and significantly lower (P < 0.05) among anti‐HCV participants (16.9%). Although not statistically significant (P = 0.13), a similar pattern was observed for active GBV‐C infection. No association between GBV‐C infection status and biomedical indicators of liver disease or HCV RNA level over time was observed. In conclusion, GBV‐C infection prevalence was higher among anti‐HCV+ compared to anti‐HCV− young IDUs, similar to prior studies among older populations. In particular, chronically HCV‐infected young IDUs had an increased rate of GBV‐C clearance.
Very early prediction of response to HCV treatment with PEG‐IFN‐alfa‐2a and ribavirin in HIV/HCV‐coinfected patients
Authors: Araújo E. S. A. , Dahari H. , Neumann A. U. , de Paula Cavalheiro N. , Melo C. E. , de Melo E. S. , Layden T. J. , Cotler S. J. , Barone A. A.
Published: August 2010

Summary.  The objective of this study was to find very early viral kinetic markers to predict nonresponse to hepatitis C virus (HCV) therapy in a group of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/HCV‐coinfected patients. Twenty‐six patients (15 HCV genotype‐1 and 11 genotype‐3) were treated with a 48‐week regimen of peginterferon‐alfa‐2a (PEG‐IFN) (180 μg/week) and weight‐based ribavirin (11 mg/kg/day). Samples were collected at baseline; 4, 8, 12, 18, 24, 30, 36 and 42 h; days 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, 15, 22, 29, 43 and 57 then weekly and monthly. Five patients discontinued treatment. Seven patients (27%) achieved a sustained virological response (SVR). Nadir HCV RNA levels were observed 1.6 ± 0.3 days after initiation of therapy, followed by a 0.3‐ to 12.9‐fold viral rebound until the administration of the second dose of PEG‐IFN, which were not associated with SVR or HCV genotype. A viral decline <1.19 log for genotype‐1 and <0.97 log for genotype‐3, 2 days after starting therapy, had a negative predictive value (NPV) of 100% for SVR. The day 2 virological response had a similar positive predictive value for SVR as a rapid virological response at week 4. In addition, a second‐phase viral decline slope (i.e., measured from day 2 to 29) <0.3 log/week had a NPV = 100% for SVR. We conclude that first‐phase viral decline at day 2 and second‐phase viral decline slope (<0.3 log/week) are excellent predictors of nonresponse. Further studies are needed to validate these viral kinetic parameters as early on‐treatment prognosticators of nonresponse in patients with HCV and HIV.
Postglacial history of a widespread conifer produces inverse clines in selective neutrality tests
Authors: HOLLIDAY J. A. , YUEN M. , RITLAND K. , AITKEN S. N.
Published: August 2010

Deviations of the site frequency spectrum of mutations (SFS) from neutral expectations may be caused by natural selection or by demographic processes such as population subdivision or temporal changes in population size. As most widespread temperate and boreal tree species have expanded from glacial refugia in the past 13 000 years, colonization bottlenecks associated with this migration may have left variable demographic signatures among geographic populations corresponding to distance from the refugia. To determine whether the signature of postglacial re‐colonization has skewed the SFS in the widely distributed conifer Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis (Bong.) Carr.), we re‐sequenced 153 nuclear genes in six populations from across the species range. We found that while the SFS for the pooled sample produced negative values for Tajima’s D and Fay and Wu’s H, these statistics exhibited strong clinal variation when populations were analysed separately (R2 = 0.84, P = 0.007 for Tajima’s D and R2 = 0.65, P = 0.033 for Fay and Wu’s H). When historical bottlenecks of varying age were simulated using approximate Bayesian computation, distance of populations from the southern range limit explained most of the variation in bottleneck timing among populations (R2 = 0.89, P = 0.003). These data suggest that sequential population bottlenecks during postglacial re‐colonization have resulted in diverse among‐population signatures within the contemporary SFS in Sitka spruce, with rare variants more common in the south, and medium‐frequency variants more common in the north. Our results also emphasize the need to consider sampling strategy and to explore population‐specific null demographic models in surveys of nucleotide variation in widely distributed species.
Synthesis of a new carrier for immunization: polytuftsin
Authors: TRUDELLE Y. , BRACK A. , DELMAS A. , PEDOUSSAUT S. , RIVAILLE P.
Published: August 2010

Sequential poly(Arg‐Thr‐Lys‐Pro) consisting mainly of the repeat of tuftsin Thr‐Lys‐Pro‐Arg was synthesized by condensing the p‐nitrophenyl ester of Arg(HCI)‐Thr‐Lys‐(2‐CI‐Z)‐Pro in the presence of HOBt. Two haptenic sequences of the Pre‐S region of hepatitis B virus antigen (10–26 and 39–55) were prepared by solid phase and coupled to polytuftsin via glutaraldehyde. The peptides, either free or coupled to polytuftsin, were administrated to mice and the antisera were assayed by ELISA. Coupling the peptides to the polypeptide significantly improved the anti‐peptide antibody titer in Freund complete adjuvant or in NaCI 0.9%. Cross‐reaction between antibodies induced by the peptides and the native protein was also improved. Polytuftsin alone is very poorly immunogenic.
Synthesis and biological characterisation of a series of iberiotoxin analogues
Authors: FLINN JAMES P. , MURPHY ROGER , JOHNS R. BASIL , KUNZE WOLFGANG A.A. , ANGUS JAMES A.
Published: August 2010

We report here the synthesis of iberiotoxin (IbTX), a 37‐amino acid peptide containing three disulfide bridges, and a series of mono‐looped analogues. All syntheses were conducted using Fmoc chemistry. Synthesis of IbTX gave a product which was indistinguishable from a reference sample in both its physicochemical properties and its biological activity. A series of three mono‐looped analogues, in which four of the six cysteines were replaced by alanine, were synthesised to give [Ala7,13,28,33]‐IbTX, [Ala13,17,33,35]‐IbTX and [Ala7,17,28,35]‐IbTX. Oxidation of the linear form of [Ala7,17,28,35]‐IbTX to form the Cys13 to Cys33 disulfide bridge proceeded more slowly than that of the other two analogues. None of these analogues was biologically active, indicating that no single loop is the mediator of channel blocking activity.
Matching the numerator with an appropriate denominator to demonstrate low amputation incidence associated with a London hospital multidisciplinary diabetic foot clinic
Authors: Valabhji J. , Gibbs R. G. J. , Bloomfield L. , Lyons S. , Samarasinghe D. , Rosenfeld P. , Gabriel C. M. , Hogg D. , Bicknell C. D.
Published: August 2010

Diabet. Med. 27, 1304–1307 (2010)

Aims  To establish a method to assess amputation incidence that addresses the problems matching a numerator with an appropriate denominator in London and to demonstrate low amputation incidence associated with the activity of our multidisciplinary diabetic foot clinic.

Methods  Hospital‐coded inpatient data was examined to derive the numerator: the number of non‐traumatic amputations performed on subjects with diabetes each financial year where the Primary Care Trust commissioner code was our main local Primary Care Trust. Denominators were derived from the main local Primary Care Trust’s Quality and Outcomes Framework data sets. Not all Primary Care Trust subjects with diabetes receive inpatient care at our hospital, so that the denominators were corrected for the hospital’s percentage market share for the provision of inpatient diabetes care for the Primary Care Trust each financial year, derived from the Dr Foster database.

Results  Between April 2004 and April 2009, 44 Primary Care Trust subjects with diabetes underwent 34 minor and 10 major amputations at the hospital. Although the Primary Care Trust populations with and without diabetes increased, the hospital’s Primary Care Trust percentage market share decreased, so that overall denominators decreased. The mean annual incidence of minor, major and total amputations over the five financial years was 14.7, 4.2 and 18.9 per 10 000 subjects with diabetes, respectively, and 3.9, 1.1 and 5.0 per 100 000 of the general population, respectively.

Conclusions  We report for the first time amputation incidence in a London population. Acknowledging the limitations of accurately defining incidence in London, we demonstrate low amputation incidence associated with our multidisciplinary diabetic foot clinic.
EXPLORATION IN SAVINGS BEHAVIOUR
Authors: FISHER MALCOLM R.
Published: August 2010

This paper essays a reasonably comprehensive econometric analysis of the results of the 1953 sample Savings Survey of residents of the United Kingdom. Part I consists of a preliminary survey of the problem and methods of analysis and of a search for the key variables influencing individual saving patterns.

In Part II two new theories of saving propounded by Modigliani and Brumberg and by Friedman are submitted to more specific testing. The Modigliani‐Brumberg theory is extended to cover variations in family size, and the implications of the Friedman hypothesis as to the role of assets as a reserve for emergencies are elucidated. A number of facets of these theories are submitted to test and their implications for the analysis of comprehensive and representative equations adumbrated.
Comments on the application of the consultative document “Care in the Community” with regard to services for mentally handicapped people
Authors: STANLEY KEVIN J.
Published: August 2010

In general I would like to give this Green Paper a cautious welcome. Anything which stimulates discussion, and encourages the placement of mentally handicapped people from large institutions into appropriate community based facilities, is to be lauded and given every support and cooperation. There are, however, a number of dangers with this initiative. It is likely to act as a smoke screen and obscure discussions on the fundamental problem affecting services for the mentally handicapped, that is, inadequate resources. In short, is HOW people live more important than WHERE people live?
Client participation: increasing opportunities for severely mentally handicapped adults
Authors: PORTERFIELD JAN
Published: August 2010

It is very important for severely mentally handicapped people to use the skills that they have and to be helped to expand these skills. Being given more opportunities for participation helps severely handicapped people lead more ordinary and happier lives.

This article describes ways in which staff of residential and day accommodation for severely mentally handicapped adults can give their clients more opportunities to participate actively in everyday aspects of life such as cooking, cleaning, recreation, gardening and shopping. Ways of organising staff, providing age‐appropriate activities, and encouraging even the most severely handicapped to participate are also discussed.
AN UNUSUAL TOILETING PROBLEM
Authors: Armitage Daphne , Holder Denis
Published: August 2010

The Warrington Community Mental Handicap Team has been functioning for 2 1/2 years, and is the only Community Team in Cheshire actually based in the community. As core members, we have close links with the Psychology Department of the local mental handicap hospital.

We describe the implementation of a toileting programme with a severely mentally handicapped 17‐year‐old girl. Several attempts to solve the problem had been made previously and we were trying to eliminate a well‐established pattern of behaviour. We were especially anxious to succeed where others had failed. The whole process took 18 months of fairly intensive work.
SYSTEMATIC TRAINING OF BUS, SHOPPING, AND CAFETERIA SKILLS
Authors: Desai Asha B.
Published: August 2010

Four mentally handicapped adults from an ATC were systematically trained (using role‐play and other techniques) to travel by bus, go shopping, and use cafés at a local shopping complex. It was hypothesised that their general social interaction skills would improve as a consequence of teaching them these three specific self‐help or “community living” skills (Marholin et al., 1979).

Pre‐ and post‐measurements on the AAMD Adaptive Behavior Scales, and on an observational scale (TAF) devised by the author, showed that this prediction was fulfilled. There were also clear improvements in the three taught skills although these were not always statistically significant. The trainees' level of confidence (as measured by the TAS) also showed improvement, with increasing independence in using these public facilities.

Since this study, three more groups at the ATC have started using the same assessment and training methods.
INTERVIEWING MENTALLY HANDICAPPED PERSONS
Authors: Hewitt Stanley E. K.
Published: August 2010

This article examines the problems of interviewing retarded persons, and their problems too. These ought to be appreciated by everyone who has anything to do with mentally handicapped people, either within or outside of the criminal justice system. The object is to generate discussion and bring about greater awareness, involving as many professionals as possible.