bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Iridovirus infections in finfish – critical review with emphasis on ranaviruses
Authors: Whittington R J , Becker J A , Dennis M M
Published: December 2009

Viruses in three genera of the family Iridoviridae (iridoviruses) affect finfish. Ranaviruses and megalocytiviruses are recently emerged pathogens. Both cause severe systemic disease, occur globally and affect a diversity of hosts. In contrast, lymphocystiviruses cause superficial lesions and rarely cause economic loss. The ranavirus epizootic haematopoietic necrosis virus (EHNV) from Australia was the first iridovirus to cause epizootic mortality in finfish. Like other ranaviruses, it lacks host specificity. A distinct but closely related virus, European catfish virus, occurs in finfish in Europe, while very similar ranaviruses occur in amphibians in Europe, Asia, Australia, North America and South America. These viruses can be distinguished from one another by conserved differences in the sequence of the major capsid protein gene, which informs policies of the World Organisation for Animal Health to minimize transboundary spread of these agents. However, limited epidemiological information and variations in disease expression create difficulties for design of sampling strategies for surveillance. There is still uncertainty surrounding the taxonomy of some putative ranaviruses such as Singapore grouper iridovirus and Santee‐Cooper ranavirus, both of which cause serious disease in fish, and confusion continues with diseases caused by megalocytiviruses. In this review, aspects of the agents and diseases caused by ranaviruses are contrasted with those due to megalocytiviruses to promote accurate diagnosis and characterization of the agents responsible. Ranavirus epizootics in amphibians are also discussed because of possible links with finfish and common anthropogenic mechanisms of spread. The source of the global epizootic of disease caused by systemic iridoviruses in finfish and amphibians is uncertain, but three possibilities are discussed: trade in food fish, trade in ornamental fish, reptiles and amphibians and emergence from unknown reservoir hosts associated with environmental change.
Oral environmental factors affecting number of microbes in saliva of complete denture wearers
Authors: RYU M. , UEDA T. , SAITO T. , YASUI M. , ISHIHARA K. , SAKURAI K.
Published: December 2009

Summary  The purpose of this study was to clarify which oral environmental factors affected number of microbes in saliva in an edentulous environment. We enrolled 68 edentulous subjects in the study. Numbers of total anaerobic bacteria and Candida species in saliva were determined. Age, sex, un‐stimulated salivary flow rate, pH and viscosity of saliva, histatin level in saliva, tongue coating status, tongue pressure, denture plaque status, material of denture base, duration of edentulism, frequency of self oral health care and number of cigarettes per day were also investigated as oral environmental factors. Correlation between number of total anaerobic bacteria or Candida species and each oral environmental factor was determined with the Spearman rank correlation coefficient. Stepwise logistic regression analysis was used to identify which factors were significantly associated with level of total anaerobic bacteria and Candida species. Correlation and stepwise logistic regression analyses revealed associations between un‐stimulated salivary flow rate, tongue coating status, denture plaque status or frequency of self oral health care and number of total anaerobic bacteria. The correlation analysis showed a significant correlation between age and number of total anaerobic bacteria. Stepwise logistic analysis revealed associations between pH of saliva or viscosity of saliva and level of anaerobic bacteria; it also revealed associations between histatin level in saliva or un‐stimulated salivary flow rate and level of Candida species. We conclude that salivary flow rate, in particular, affects number of salivary microbes in an edentulous environment.
Mandibular Kennedy Class I implant‐tooth‐borne removable partial denture: a systematic review
Authors: SHAHMIRI R. A. , ATIEH M. A.
Published: December 2009

Summary  The purpose of this systematic review is to evaluate the use of implant‐tooth‐borne removable partial dentures in prosthetic rehabilitation of Kennedy Class I partially edentulous arches. A comprehensive search was performed in MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Oral Health Group’s Trials Register, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, UK National Research Register, Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR), conference proceedings and abstracts up to 25 August 2009. Searching the reference list of the selected articles and hand searching of several journals were also performed. A total of nine studies were included. Of these, two were randomized, three were retrospective and four were case reports. All but two had a low reporting quality (level IV on a four‐level hierarchy of evidence). Nevertheless, the improvement in function, aesthetics and stability has been demonstrated in all studies with minimal prosthetic care. Within the limitations of this study, implant‐assisted/supported removable partial denture may provide a simple, economical and less invasive treatment modality. The predictability of such approach in the management of bilateral distal‐extension situation is, however, still questionable. A higher quality of published studies namely with a focus on long‐term randomized clinical trials are needed.
Effect of pre‐heating on the viscosity and microhardness of a resin composite
Authors: LUCEY S. , LYNCH C. D. , RAY N. J. , BURKE F. M. , HANNIGAN A.
Published: December 2009

Summary  The effect of pre‐heating resin composite on pre‐cured viscosity and post‐cured surface hardness was evaluated. Groups of uncured specimens were heated to 60 °C and compared with control groups (24 °C) with respect to viscosity and surface hardness. Mean (SD) viscosities of the pre‐heated specimens (n = 15) were in the range of 285 (13)–377 (11) (Pa) compared with 642 (35)–800 (23) (Pa) at ambient temperature. There was a statistically significant difference between the two groups (P < 0·001). Mean (SD) Vickers microhardness (VHN) of the pre‐heated group (n = 15) was 68·6 (2·3) for the top surface and 68·7 (1·8) for the bottom surface measured at 24 h post curing (specimen thickness = 1·5 mm). The corresponding values for the room temperature group were 60·6 (1·4) and 59·0 (3·5). There was a statistically significant difference between corresponding measurements taken at the top and bottom for the pre‐heated and room temperature groups (P < 0·001). There was no significant difference between top and bottom measurements within each group. Pre‐heating resin composite reduces its pre‐cured viscosity and enhances its subsequent surface hardness. These effects may translate as easier placement together with an increased degree of polymerization and depth‐of‐cure.
Measurement of CD4+ T‐cell function in predicting allograft rejection and recurrent hepatitis C after liver transplantation
Authors: Hashimoto Koji , Miller Charles , Hirose Kenzo , Diago Teresa , Aucejo Federico , Quintini Cristiano , Eghtesad Bijan , Corey Rebecca , Yerian Lisa , Lopez Rocio , Zein Nizar , Fung John
Published: December 2009

Hashimoto K, Miller C, Hirose K, Diago T, Aucejo F, Quintini C, Eghtesad B, Corey R, Yerian L, Lopez R, Zein N, Fung J. Measurement of CD4+ T‐cell function in predicting allograft rejection and recurrent hepatitis C after liver transplantation. Clin Transplant 2009 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399‐0012.2009.01169.x © 2009 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Recurrence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) can be difficult to distinguish from acute cellular rejection (ACR) following liver transplantation. The Cylex Immune Function Assay (ImmuKnow) provides objective measure of recipient’s immune function. The goal is to assess the ability of this assay to distinguish these similar conditions. A retrospective review was performed in 54 recipients with HCV. ImmuKnow assays were measured with allograft biopsies. Levels of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) release from CD4+ T cells (ng/mL) were compared with the following biopsy result classifications: 365 ± 130 with ACR (n = 11), 152 ± 100 with recurrent HCV (n = 26), 240 ± 71 with normal biopsies (n = 12), and 157 ± 130 with overlapping features of ACR and recurrent HCV (n = 5). Recipients with recurrent HCV had lower immune response than those with ACR (p < 0.0001).Using a cutoff level of 220, the sensitivity and specificity for distinguishing two conditions were 88.5% and 90.9%, respectively. When recipients with overlapping features had low immune response, three of four recipients’ subsequent biopsies showed recurrent HCV. In conclusion, the ImmuKnow assay can be a sensitive and specific additional test for distinguishing recurrent HCV from ACR and may be useful for predicting which recipients may be most vulnerable to recurrent HCV.
Randomized crossover study to assess the inter‐ and intrasubject variability of morning mycophenolic acid concentrations from enteric‐coated mycophenolate sodium and mycophenolate mofetil in stable renal transplant recipients
Authors: Tedesco‐Silva Helio , Felipe Claudia R. , Park Sung I. , Pinheiro‐Machado Paula G. , Garcia Riberto , Slade Alan , Schmouder Robert , Medina‐Pestana Jose O.
Published: December 2009

Tedesco‐Silva H, Felipe CR, Park SI, Pinheiro‐Machado PG, Garcia R, Slade A, Schmouder R, Medina‐Pestana JO. Randomized crossover study to assess the inter‐ and intrasubject variability of morning mycophenolic acid concentrations from enteric‐coated mycophenolate sodium and mycophenolate mofetil in stable renal transplant recipients. Clin Transplant 2010: 24: E116–E123. © 2009 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  The delayed release of mycophenolic acid (MPA) from enteric‐coated mycophenolate sodium (EC‐MPS, myfortic®) may have an impact on the variability of MPA trough (C0 h) levels. A randomized, two‐period crossover study was performed in 24 maintenance renal transplants to evaluate the inter‐ and intrasubject variability of MPA predose levels from EC‐MPS and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF, CellCept®), both in combination with cyclosporine. Patients received EC‐MPS (720 mg b.i.d.) and MMF (1000 mg b.i.d.) for a period of 21 d each. MPA plasma levels were measured over the final seven consecutive days at −1, 0, 1, 2, and 3 h after the morning MPA dose. Intersubject coefficients of variation (%CV) for MPA troughs were 47.5% (95% CI, 34.1–80.3) and 54.4% (40.0–86.8) for EC‐MPS and MMF, respectively; intrasubject %CVs were 62.7% (55.1–72.9) and 42.8% (37.9–49.2). High MPA C0 h levels >10 μg/mL were rarely observed with both EC‐MPS (1.8%) and MMF (0.6%). Mean MPA area under the curve (AUC)0–3 h was comparable between treatments, while MPA C0 h was on average 46% higher with EC‐MPS. In conclusion, predose MPA trough level monitoring appears of limited value during EC‐MPS and MMF therapy given the large intrasubject variability in MPA C0 h levels with both treatments.
The association betweeneNOSintron 4 VNTR polymorphism and delayed graft function of kidney allografts
Authors: Dutkiewicz Grażyna , Domanski Leszek , Binczak‐Kuleta Agnieszka , Pawlik Andrzej , Safranow Krzysztof , Ciechanowicz Andrzej , Dziedziejko Violetta , Ciechanowski Kazimierz
Published: December 2009

Dutkiewicz G, Domanski L, Binczak‐Kuleta A, Pawlik A, Safranow K, Ciechanowicz A, Dziedziejko V, Ciechanowski K. The association betweeneNOSintron 4 VNTR polymorphism and delayed graft function of kidney allografts. Clin Transplant 2009 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399‐0012.2009.01187.x © 2009 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract: Nitric oxide (NO) is a multifunctional agent which serves as a key signaling molecule in physiological processes such as host defense, neuronal communication, and the regulation of vascular tone. Different polymorphic variations have been identified in the humanNOS3(eNOS) gene.The aim of the present study was to examine the association between polymorphisms of theNOS3gene (G894T substitution within exon 7 and intron 4 VNTR polymorphism) and the development of delayed graft function as well as acute and chronic rejection.One hundred eighty‐seven recipients of first renal transplants were included in the study. There were no significant associations between these polymorphisms and acute and chronic kidney allograft rejection. The intron 4 polymorphism was associated with delayed graft function after transplantation. The results of this study suggest that patients with the a allele of theeNOSintron 4 VNTR polymorphism may be predisposed to delayed graft function.
Comparison of biliary complications in adult living‐donor liver transplants performed at two busy transplant centers
Authors: Melcher Marc L. , Pomposelli James J. , Verbesey Jennifer E. , McTaggart Ryan A. , Freise Chris E. , Ascher Nancy L. , Roberts John P. , Pomfret Elizabeth A.
Published: December 2009

Melcher ML, Pomposelli JJ, Verbesey JE, McTaggart RA, Freise CE, Ascher NL, Roberts JP, Pomfret EA. Comparison of biliary complications in adult living‐donor liver transplants performed at two busy transplant centers. Clin Transplant 2009 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399‐0012.2009.01189.x.  © 2009 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Adult living‐donor liver transplantation (ALDLT) has a high rate of biliary complications. We identified risk factors that correlate with biliary leaks and strictures by combining data from two centers. Records of ALDLT right lobe recipients (n = 156) at two centers between December 1998 and February 2005 were reviewed. Leak rate was analyzed in 144 recipients after we excluded those with hepatic artery thrombosis or death within 30 d of transplant. Stricture rate was also analyzed in 132 recipients after we excluded those with graft survival or follow‐up <180 d. Biliary reconstructions were performed using either duct‐to‐duct (DD) or Roux‐en‐Y hepaticojejunostomy and were subclassified by anatomic type, number of anastomoses performed, and stent use. Prevalence of a leak and/or a stricture was 39%; 11% of recipients developed both. Single DD anastomoses between the graft right hepatic duct to the recipient common duct had significantly lower incidence of leaks compared to all other anastomotic types. Early leak was predictive of late stricture development (p = 0.006), but recipient demographics, diagnosis, warm ischemia time, anastomosis type, duct number, year of transplant, stent use, and transplant center were not. The results suggest donors with a single right hepatic duct reconstructed to the recipient common bile duct are the most likely to avoid biliary problems after ALDLT.
Nickel allergy presenting as mobile phone contact dermatitis
Authors: Roberts Hugh , Tate Bruce
Published: December 2009

A 39‐year‐old man presented with a 6‐month history of a treatment‐resistant facial dermatitis. The patient regularly used his mobile phone, predominantly on the left cheek. Patch testing confirmed the clinical suspicion of mobile phone contact dermatitis from nickel contained in the phone casing. Although infrequently reported, with the trend towards metallic mobile phone casings and the high incidence of nickel sensitization in the community, the incidence of mobile phone contact dermatitis is likely to increase.
Acute unilateral poliosis concurrent with trigeminal autonomic cephalalgia: A possible aetiological association
Authors: Kwon Do‐Young , Park Moon Ho , Oh Kyungmi , Ryu Hwa Jung , Park Kun Woo
Published: December 2009

We report a 24‐year‐old man who presented with the sudden onset of unilateral poliosis associated with acute trigeminal autonomic cephalalgia, suggesting a pathophysiology in common and a possible neural hypothesis in the development of segmental vitiligo. Although rare, associations with neurological abnormalities should be considered in cases of focal depigmentation disorders.
Crucial role of corneal lymphangiogenesis for allograft rejection in alkali‐burned cornea bed
Authors: Ling Shiqi , Qi Caoxiu , Li Wei , Xu Jiangang , Kuang Wenghui
Published: December 2009

Abstract

Backgroud:  To examine the time course of hemangiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis, inflammation after corneal alkaline burns and compare with the importance of corneal hemangiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis and inflammation in allograft rejection on alkali‐burned cornea bed, respectively.

Methods:  Rat corneal hemangiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis were examined by whole mount immunofluorescence and double enzyme‐histochemistry, and the state of corneal inflammation was evaluated by inflammation index scoring and histopathology. Then, corneal transplantations were divided into six groups and performed before the burn (group A) and on day 3 (group B), 2 weeks (group C), 5 weeks (group D), 6 weeks (group E) and 8 weeks (group F) after alkaline burns, respectively. The immune rejection of grafts was evaluated by interferon‐γ, interleukin‐2 enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and slit‐lamp examination.

Results:  Both corneal lymphatic and blood vessels reached the top 2 weeks after the burn. Corneal lymphangiogenesis disappeared 5 weeks after the burn, and corneal hemangiogenesis regressed completely 3 weeks later. Corneal inflammation was strong on day 3, but resolved 6 weeks after the burn. Compared with other groups, the mean survival time of groups B (4.67 ± 1.03 days) and C (5.00 ± 0.63 days) was significantly shorter (P < 0.05). The difference of mean survival time of grafts between group D (9.50 ± 1.05 days) and group E (9.83 ± 0.75 days), between group D and group F (10.00 ± 0.89 days) was not significant (P > 0.05).

Conclusions:  Corneal lymphangiogenesis presents for a shorter duration than corneal hemangiogenesis or corneal inflammation but plays a crucial role in allograft rejection on alkali‐burned cornea bed.
Low cycle fatigue behaviour of duplex stainless steel: influence of isothermal aging treatment
Authors: SAHU J. K. , GHOSH R. N. , CHRIST H.‐J.
Published: December 2009

The low‐cycle fatigue behaviour of a duplex stainless steel was comparatively studied in standard heat‐treated and isothermally aged (at 475 °C for 100 h) conditions by mechanical testing, scanning and transmission electron microscopy. It was established that fatigue life is longer in the aged condition as compared to the annealed condition at lower values of total strain amplitude Δɛ/2 (Δɛ/2 = 4.0 × 10−3 and 6.0 × 10−3) and becomes similar in annealed and aged conditions at Δɛ/2 = 8.0 × 10−3. Fatigue resistance of the material converges with increase in Δɛ/2 values as a result of rapid cyclic softening of the ferritic phase in the aged condition.
Dynamic propagation problem of mode I semi‐infinite crack subjected to superimpose loads
Authors: LÜ N. C. , Cheng Y. H. , Li X. G. , Cheng J.
Published: December 2009

By means of the theory of complex functions, dynamic propagation problems of a semi‐infinite crack subjected to the superimposed mode load were studied. Analytical solutions of stress, displacement and dynamic stress intensity factor are very readily obtained using the approaches of self‐similar functions. The corresponding closed solutions are obtained based on the Riemann–Hilbert problems.
Prey diversity is associated with weaker consumer effects in a meta‐analysis of benthic marine experiments
Authors: Edwards Kyle F. , Aquilino Kristin M. , Best Rebecca J. , Sellheim Kirsten L. , Stachowicz John J.
Published: December 2009

Ecology Letters(2010) 13: 194–201

A rapidly accumulating body of research has shown that species diversity consistently affects the functioning of ecosystems. The incorporation of trophic complexity and the extension of this research to larger scales and natural ranges in species diversity remain as important challenges for understanding the true magnitude of these effects in natural systems. Here, we test whether the diversity of prey communities affects the magnitude of aggregate consumer effects. We conducted a meta‐analysis of 57 consumer removal field experiments from a range of intertidal and subtidal hard substrate marine communities. We found that the richness of the prey community was the strongest predictor of the magnitude of consumer effects while controlling for habitat type, taxonomic composition, and other variables. Consumer removal increased aggregate prey abundance on average by 1200% at the lower limit of prey diversity (two species), but only 200% at the upper limit of 37 species. Importantly, compositional change was substantial at both high and low prey diversity, suggesting predation intensity did not vary with prey richness. Rather diverse prey communities appear to be more capable of maintaining abundance via compensatory responses, by containing prey species that are resistant to (or tolerant of) predators. These results suggest that the effects of species diversity on trophic interactions may scale consistently from small‐scale manipulations to cross‐community comparisons.
Is long‐term virological response related to CCR5 Δ32 deletion in HIV‐1‐infected patients started on highly active antiretroviral therapy?
Authors: Laurichesse J‐J , Taieb A , Capoulade‐Metay C , Katlama C , Villes V , Drobacheff‐Thiebaud M‐C , Raffi F , Chêne G , Theodorou I , Leport C ,   the ANRS C08 Aproco‐Copilote Study Group
Published: December 2009

Objective

The aim of the study was to determine whether the chemokine (C‐C motif) receptor 5 (CCR5) Δ32 deletion is associated with long‐term response to combination antiretroviral treatment (cART) in HIV‐1‐infected patients.

Methods

The genetic substudy of the Agence Nationale de Recherche sur le SIDA (ANRS) CO8 APROCO‐COPILOTE cohort included 609 patients who started protease inhibitor‐containing cART in 1997–1999. Patients were considered to have a sustained virological response if all plasma HIV RNA measurements in the period considered were <500 HIV‐1 RNA copies/ml, allowing for a single blip. Virological response was compared between patients heterozygous for CCR5 Δ32 (Δ32/wt) and wild‐type patients (wt/wt) from month 4 to year 3 and from month 4 to year 5. Logistic regression analysis was used to adjust for baseline demographical data, HIV RNA, CD4 cell count, antiretroviral exposure status, time spent on antiretroviral therapy at years 3 and 5 and adherence to treatment (month 4 to year 3 or 5).

Results

A sustained virological response was more frequent in Δ32/wt than in wt/wt patients from month 4 to year 3, with 66%vs. 52% of patients, respectively, showing a sustained response (P=0.02); after adjustment for potential confounders, the association of Δ32 with a sustained response was nearly significant (P=0.07). A sustained virological response was also more frequent in Δ32/wt patients up to year 5, with 48% showing a sustained response vs. 35% of wt/wt patients (P=0.01); after adjustment, Δ32 remained significantly associated with a sustained virological response up to year 5 (P=0.04). There was no association with CD4 response.

Conclusion

The Δ32 deletion in Δ32/wt patients is associated with a beneficial virological response to cART in the long term. Whether this association is a direct effect of the Δ32 deletion remains unclear and requires confirmation in further observational studies.
EFNS guidelines on the molecular diagnosis of ataxias and spastic paraplegias
Authors: Gasser T. , Finsterer J. , Baets J. , Van Broeckhoven C. , Di Donato S. , Fontaine B. , De Jonghe P. , Lossos A. , Lynch T. , Mariotti C. , Schöls L. , Spinazzola A. , Szolnoki Z. , Tabrizi S. J. , Tallaksen C.M.E. , Zeviani M. , Burgunder J‐M. , Harbo H. F.
Published: December 2009

Background and purpose:  These EFNS guidelines on the molecular diagnosis of neurogenetic disorders are designed to provide practical help for the general neurologist to make appropriate use of molecular genetics in diagnosing neurogenetic disorders.

Methods:  Literature searches were performed before expert members of the task force wrote proposals, which were discussed in detail until final consensus had been reached among all task force members.

Results and conclusion:  This paper provides updated guidelines for molecular diagnosis of two particularly complex groups of disorders, the ataxias and spastic paraplegias. Possibilities and limitations of molecular genetic diagnosis of these disorders are evaluated and recommendations are provided.
Cognitive impairment after three decades of multiple sclerosis
Authors: Smestad C. , Sandvik L. , Landrø N. I. , Celius E. G.
Published: December 2009

Background:  Population‐based studies of cognitive impairment in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) with long disease duration are limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate long‐term outcome and the predictors of cognitive impairment in a cohort of patients with MS.

Methods:  Patients living in Oslo, Norway, with definite MS and onset in 1940–1980 alive on 1 May 2006 were included. Disability was assessed by Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS). Cognitive functioning was assessed in terms of psychomotor speed, attention, learning/memory and executive functions.

Results:  A total of 123 patients was included. EDSS was ≤3.0 in 26% and ≥6.0 in 60% after mean disease duration of 34.5 years. Cognitive impairment was found in 48% of the patients eligible for neuropsychological evaluation (n = 84). Typical pattern was moderate impairment within areas of information processing, attention and memory. In the univariate analysis, younger onset age was significantly associated with cognitive impairment (P = 0.014). Younger onset age (P = 0.017) and disease course (secondary progressive vs. relapsing‐remitting MS, P = 0.049) were significantly associated with cognitive impairment in the multivariate analysis.

Conclusions:  After three decades of disease, half of the MS patients experienced reduced cognitive functioning; however, nearly one‐third of the patients were only mildly disabled based on the EDSS. Younger onset age was associated with higher prevalence of cognitive impairment. A thorough evaluation of cognitive function in addition to EDSS is essential for evaluating long‐term impairment in patients with MS.
Dural arteriovenous fistula at the foramen magnum presenting with subarachnoid hemorrhage: case reports and literature review
Authors: Guo L.‐M. , Zhou H.‐Y. , Xu J.‐W. , Wang G.‐S. , Tian X. , Wang Y. , Qiu Y.‐M. , Jiang J.‐Y.
Published: December 2009

Background and purpose:  Spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs) may arise at any level from the foramen magnum to the sacrum. Only a few case series of DAVFs at the foramen magnum have been reported, especially with patients presenting with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). We performed a retrospective study of four such cases and summarize experiences in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of a DAVF at the foramen magnum.

Methods:  Four male patients, aged from 35 to 51 years, were admitted with severe headache. The cranial computerized tomography scans of all four patients showed SAH, with hemorrhage in the fourth ventricle with or without hemorrhage in the occipital horns of the lateral ventricles. Pre‐operative digital subtraction cerebral angiography showed a DAVF at the foramen magnum draining to medullary veins and/or the straight sinus and the confluence of sinuses. Two DAVFs were fed by the vertebral artery, whilst the others were fed by dural branches of the occipital artery and/or the ascending pharyngeal artery.

Results:  Three patients underwent direct microsurgical electrocoagulation and disconnection of the arteriovenous shunt via an enlargement of the foramen magnum and a hemilaminectomy at C1 by the far lateral suboccipital approach. Post‐operative angiography confirmed complete obliteration of the fistula.

Conclusions:  Cerebral digital subtraction angiography is an effective and accurate method for examination of a DAVF at the foramen magnum. It can be treated effectively and with minimal surgical trauma by microsurgical electrocoagulation and disconnection of the shunt.
Changes in Family Composition and Marital Status in Families with a Young Child with Cognitive Delay
Authors: Hatton Chris , Emerson Eric , Graham Hilary , Blacher Jan , Llewellyn Gwynnyth
Published: December 2009

Background  Few studies have investigated parental separation, partnering and re‐partnering among population‐based cohorts of children at risk of intellectual or developmental disabilities.

Methods  Secondary analysis of data extracted from Waves 1–3 of the UK’s Millennium Cohort Study. Information on the residence status of parents at Waves 1, 2 and 3 was available for 10 848 families.

Results  Children with early cognitive delay (ECD) were significantly less likely than other children to be living in households with both biological parents or in households where the mother was married at all time points, including at the time of the child’s birth and when children were aged 9 months, 3 years and 5 years. Although families with a child with ECD were more likely than families with a typically developing child to experience changes in both family composition and marital status over the first 5 years of the child’s life, the net effect of these changes in family composition and marital status from the time of the child’s birth to the time the child was 5 years old was similar for both groups of families. The increased levels of family change amongst families with a child with ECD were wholly accounted for by differences in family socio‐economic circumstances.

Conclusions  More attention needs to be paid to describing and explaining the dynamics of family composition in the early years of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. ‘Stress reaction’ models attempting to account for rates of parental separation need to incorporate socio‐economic factors.
Majority and Minority Ethnic Family Carers of Adults with Intellectual Disabilities: Perceptions of Challenging Behaviour and Family Impact
Authors: Hatton Chris , Emerson Eric , Kirby Suzanne , Kotwal Homayra , Baines Susannah , Hutchinson Christine , Dobson Catherine , Marks Bob
Published: December 2009

Background  A health service in an English city was concerned about its support to families with adults with intellectual disabilities and challenging behaviour.

Methods  Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with seven minority ethnic and seven majority ethnic family members to explore perceptions of challenging behaviour, support and the impact of the person on the family. These were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis.

Results  Four themes emerged: (i) A broad range of difficulties with the adult with intellectual disabilities. (ii) Varied relationships with local communities in acceptance and support. (iii) Varied but largely negative relationships with services. (iv) Varied relationships with the person with intellectual disabilities, from highly dependent relationships with negative consequences to more fulfilling relationships. Families from minority ethnic communities were more likely to report negative experiences.

Conclusions  ‘Challenging behaviour’ services need to be considered within a much broader social and community context.
Development and Psychometric Properties of the Family Life Interview
Authors: Llewellyn Gwynnyth , Bundy Anita , Mayes Rachel , McConnell David , Emerson Eric , Brentnall Jennie
Published: December 2009

Background  This study describes the development and trialling of the Family Life Interview (FLI), a clinical tool designed to examine sustainability of family routines.

Materials and Methods  The FLI, a self‐report instrument completed by a parent within a semi‐structured practitioner – parent interview, was administered to 118 parents, with re‐test interviews being conducted with 39 parents. Rasch analysis was used to examine scale structure, evidence for construct validity and precision of measurement of the FLI items. Logistic regression was used to explore the contribution of the FLI to predicting out‐of‐home placement scores.

Results  The FLI produced valid data on the sustainability of family routines. The FLI was found to be useful for predicting families at risk of seeking out‐of‐home placement driven by crisis.

Conclusions  The FLI offers practitioners a psychometrically sound instrument designed to illuminate the particularity of each family’s circumstances, critical to developing interventions for increasing the sustainability of family routines.
‘A Very Fine Line’: Parents’ Experiences of Using Restraint with Their Adult Son/Daughter with Intellectual Disabilities
Authors: Elford Helen , Beail Nigel , Clarke Zara
Published: December 2009

Background  Restraint is sometimes used on people with intellectual disabilities who display challenging behaviours, and may be justifiable as a last resort to prevent harm. A substantial proportion of such people are cared for within the family home. The aim of this paper is to explore parents’ experiences of using restraint with their son/daughter with intellectual disabilities.

Materials and Methods  Seven participants took part in the study. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) was used to analyse the interviews, due to its dual perspective of understanding of participants’ experiences and acknowledging the interpretative process of the research.

Results  Restraint was described as a ‘very fine line’, drawn in an attempt to strike a balance between right and wrong, safety and danger, humanity and dehumanising, and helping and harming. Interactions regarding restraint with professionals also presented a fine line between being heard and being ignored, being supported and being isolated, and being informed and being kept in the dark.

Conclusions  Decisions about restraint present many complex dilemmas. It is recommended that professionals can support parents pro‐actively by providing advice on challenging behaviour and sufficient support in the caring role. Where restraint is necessary support can be provided by recognising the complexity of such decisions, working in partnership with parents, promoting a culture of openness and honesty about restraint use in services, and providing training and advice about restraint.
Structural and Functional Aspects of Social Support for Mothers of Children with and without Cognitive Delays in Vietnam
Authors: Park So‐Youn , Glidden Laraine M. , Shin Jin Y.
Published: December 2009

Background  This study reports development of a social support scale appropriate to the Vietnamese culture and the impact of social support on mothers of children with cognitive delays by using the developing scale.

Method  Interview surveys were conducted with 225 mothers of children with and without cognitive delays in Vietnam. The structural and functional social supports were examined in relation to two aspects of stress, parental competence and role restriction. Demographic variables were incorporated in examining the relationships between social support and stress.

Results  The social support scale had adequate reliability and structural and functional aspects comparable to those found in Western societies. Two domains in functional support, material and family‐directed support, alleviated stress when controlling for child disability status and sociodemographic variables.

Conclusions  The results showed that informal and functional social support have some effect on maternal stress. However, when other variables were examined in combination, child disability was the strongest predictor of maternal stress.
Longitudinal pathways linking child maltreatment, emotion regulation, peer relations, and psychopathology
Authors: Kim Jungmeen , Cicchetti Dante
Published: December 2009

Background:  The aim of this study was to investigate longitudinal relations among child maltreatment, emotion regulation, peer acceptance and rejection, and psychopathology.

Methods:  Data were collected on 215 maltreated and 206 nonmaltreated children (ages 6–12 years) from low‐income families. Children were evaluated by camp counselors on emotion regulation and internalizing and externalizing symptomatology and were nominated by peers for peer acceptance and rejection.

Results:  Structural equation modeling analyses revealed that experiencing neglect, physical and/or sexual abuse, multiple maltreatment subtypes, and earlier onset of maltreatment were related to emotion dysregulation. Lower emotion regulation (Time 1) was associated with higher externalizing symptomatology (Time 1) that contributed to later peer rejection (Time 2), which in turn was related to higher externalizing symptomatology (Time 2). Conversely, higher emotion regulation was predictive of higher peer acceptance over time, which was related to lower internalizing symptomatology controlling for initial levels of symptomatology.

Conclusions:  The findings emphasize the important role of emotion regulation as a risk or a protective mechanism in the link between earlier child maltreatment and later psychopathology through its influences on peer relations.
Prosaposin in the secretome of marrow stroma‐derived neural progenitor cells protects neural cells from apoptotic death
Authors: Li Na , Sarojini Harshini , An Jin , Wang Eugenia
Published: December 2009

J. Neurochem. (2010) 112, 1527–1538.

Functionally, adult stem cells not only participate in replication and differentiation to various cell lineages, but also may be involved in rescuing cells from apoptosis. Identifying functional factors secreted by stem cells, as well as their target cells, may advance our understanding of stem cells’ multifaceted physiologic functions. Here, we report that mouse bone marrow stromal cell‐derived neuroprogenitor cells (mMSC‐NPC) provide a protective function by secreting a key factor, prosaposin (PSAP), capable of rescuing mature neurons from apoptotic death. This factor is identified as the lead protein in the secretome of mMSC‐NPC cultures by tandem mass spectroscopic profiling, and further validated by western blotting and immunocytochemistry. The secretome of MSC‐NPC reduces toxin‐induced cell death in cultures of rat pheochromocytoma neuronal cells, human ReNcell CX neurons, and rat cortical primary neurons; removal of PSAP by immunodepletion annuls this protective effect. This neuronal protection against toxin treatment was validated further by the recombinant PSAP peptide. Interestingly, the secretome of neuronal culture does not possess such a self‐protective action. We suggest that upon injury, a subgroup of MSCs differentiates into neural/neuronal progenitor cells, and remains in this intermediate stem cell‐like stage, defending injured neighboring mature neurons from apoptosis by secreting PSAP.
Increased Dickkopf‐1 expression in transgenic mouse models of neurodegenerative disease
Authors: Rosi Maria Cristina , Luccarini Ilaria , Grossi Cristina , Fiorentini Anna , Spillantini Maria Grazia , Prisco Antonella , Scali Carla , Gianfriddo Marco , Caricasole Andrea , Terstappen Georg C. , Casamenti Fiorella
Published: December 2009

J. Neurochem. (2010) 112, 1539–1551.

To investigate the role of the Wnt inhibitor Dickkopf‐1 (DKK‐1) in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases, we analysed DKK‐1 expression and localization in transgenic mouse models expressing familial Alzheimer’s disease mutations and a frontotemporal dementia mutation. A significant increase of DKK‐1 expression was found in the diseased brain areas of all transgenic lines, where it co‐localized with hyperphosphorylated tau‐bearing neurons. In TgCRND8 mice, DKK‐1 immunoreactivity was detected in neurons surrounding amyloid deposits and within the choline acetyltransferase‐positive neurons of the basal forebrain. Active glycogen synthase kinase‐3 (GSK‐3) was found to co‐localize with DKK‐1 and phospho‐tau staining. Downstream to GSK‐3, a significant reduction in β‐catenin translocation to the nucleus, indicative of impaired Wnt signaling functions, was found as well. Cumulatively, our findings indicate that DKK‐1 expression is associated with events that lead to neuronal death in neurodegenerative diseases and support a role for DKK‐1 as a key mediator of neurodegeneration with therapeutic potential.
PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGY OF ROMAN LEAD‐GLAZED POTTERY AND ITS CONTINUANCE INTO LATE ANTIQUITY
Authors: WALTON M. S. , TITE M. S.
Published: December 2009

A broad selection of Roman lead‐glazed pottery dating from the first century ad through the fifth century ad was studied to establish locations of workshops and to address their technology of production. The ceramic bodies were analysed by ICP–AES. In addition, lead isotope analysis was undertaken on a selection of glazes. These findings suggested that there were several regions responsible for the production of lead‐glazed ceramics in the western Roman world, including central Gaul, Italy and, probably, Serbia and Romania. Using the body compositions as a starting point, the glazing techniques employed by each of the potential workshops were examined using electron probe microanalysis. It was determined that there were two primary methods of glazing. The first method used lead oxide by itself applied to non‐calcareous clay bodies, and the second method used a lead oxide‐plus‐quartz mixture applied to calcareous clay bodies. Based on these data for clay composition and glazing method, transfer of technology from the Hellenistic east to the western Roman world was proposed. Likewise, the inheritance of lead‐glazing technology into late antiquity was established by making comparisons to lead‐glazed ceramics dating to the seventh to ninth centuries from Italy, the Byzantine world and Tang Dynasty China.
PROVENANCING OF LIGHTWEIGHT VOLCANIC STONES USED IN ANCIENT ROMAN CONCRETE VAULTING: EVIDENCE FROM TURKEY AND TUNISIA
Authors: LANCASTER L. C. , SOTTILI G. , MARRA F. , VENTURA G.
Published: December 2009

The mastery of the use of lightweight rocks in concrete as a means of controlling the thrusts of large‐scale vaults was among the most important contributions of the Roman builders to the development of vaulted architecture. The string of volcanoes along the Tyrrhenian coast of Italy produced a variety of lightweight rocks, which allowed the builders in Rome to develop highly sophisticated ways of manipulating form and mass to create stable structures. The use of lighter rocks in vaults and heavier in foundations occurs from the mid‐first century bc in Rome, but the systematic use of imported lightweight rocks only began in the early second century ad under Trajan (Lancaster 2005, 59–64). Soon thereafter, the technique of using lightweight stones to build large vaults spread throughout the empire, usually to areas that had a local source of lightweight volcanic material. However, there was also a seaborne trade in lightweight rocks to areas that did not have local sources of such material. The intention of our analysis is to determine as precisely as possible the provenance of the lightweight stones used in vaulting of two areas of the Mediterranean, modern Turkey (ancient Cilicia) and Tunisia (ancient Africa Proconsularis), and thus to provide a better understanding of the nature of this trade.
IS THERE ROOM FOR POLARIZATION?
Authors: Yitzhaki Shlomo
Published: December 2009

Polarization is a concept which is defined over the distribution of income. It is clear that it does not fit into the framework of the traditional Bergson‐type Social Welfare Function. The aim of this paper is to investigate whether the concept can fit into the framework of the theory of Relative Deprivation. It is suggested that it may be incorporated into this theory as representing the power of groups.
POLES APART? AN ANALYSIS OF THE MEANING OF POLARIZATION
Authors: Amiel Yoram , Cowell Frank , Ramos Xavier
Published: December 2009

Starting from the axiomatization of polarization contained in Esteban and Ray (1994) and Chakravarty and Majumder (2001), we investigate whether people's perceptions of income polarization are consistent with the key axioms. This is carried out using a questionnaire–experimental approach that combines both paper questionnaires and on‐line interactive techniques. The responses suggest that important axioms which serve to differentiate polarization from inequality—e.g. increased bipolarization—as well as other distinctive features of polarization, i.e. the non‐monotonous behavior attributed to polarization, are not widely accepted.
MIXTURE MODELS, CONVERGENCE CLUBS, AND POLARIZATION
Authors: Pittau Maria Grazia , Zelli Roberto , Johnson Paul A.
Published: December 2009

We argue that modeling the cross‐country distribution of per capita income as a mixture distribution provides a natural framework for the detection of convergence clubs. The framework yields tests for the number of component distributions that are likely to be more informative than “bump hunting” tests and includes a method of assessing the cross‐component immobility necessary to imply a correspondence between components and convergence clubs. Applying this approach to Penn World Data for the period 1960 to 2000 we find evidence of three component densities. We find little cross‐component mobility and so interpret the multiple mixture components as representing convergence clubs. We document a pronounced tendency for the strength of the bonds between countries and clubs to increase and show that the well‐known “hollowing out” of the middle of the distribution is largely attributable to the increased concentration of the rich countries around their component means.
ON POLARIZATION AND MOBILITY: A LOOK AT POLARIZATION IN THE WAGE–CAREER PROFILE IN ITALY
Authors: Poggi Ambra , Silber Jacques
Published: December 2009

This paper attempts to combine the analysis of wage polarization with that of wage mobility. Using the polarization index PG recently proposed by Deutsch et al. (2007) it shows that, when taking the identity of the individuals into account, a distinction can be made between a change over time in polarization that is the consequence of “structural mobility” (change over time in the overall, between‐ and within‐groups inequality) and a change in polarization that is the sole consequence of “exchange mobility” (changes over time in the ranks of the individuals). This approach is then applied to the 1985–2003 Work Histories Italian Panel (WHIP), an employer–employee linked panel database. The empirical investigation attempts to improve our understanding of labor market segmentation in Italy, whether the groups are defined on the basis of the individual wages or derived from other criteria such as white‐ versus blue‐collar workers.
ON MEASURING AND EXPLAINING SOCIOECONOMIC POLARIZATION IN HEALTH WITH AN APPLICATION TO FRENCH DATA
Authors: Apouey Bénédicte H.
Published: December 2009

This paper proposes two original measures of socioeconomic polarization, in order to quantify phenomena that are not always taken into account by social inequality measures. Our approach is inspired by the literature on bivariate inequality (the concentration index) and univariate polarization. Like the concentration index, our social polarization measures can be easily computed thanks to a “convenient” regression and decomposed into their determinants. Moreover changes in polarization can also be decomposed into their causes. The paper also provides an empirical illustration of our methods for the probability of reporting excellent or very good health, using cross‐sectional data on French women. The findings suggest that after 65 years of age, social polarization in this probability decreases whereas social inequality remains stable. Consequently social polarization conveys additional information to that contained in the concentration index.
POLARIZATION AND HEALTH
Authors: Pérez Cristina Blanco , Ramos Xavier
Published: December 2009

This paper examines the effect of income polarization on individual health. We argue that polarization captures much better the social tension and conflict that underlie some of the pathways linking income disparities and individual health, and which have been traditionally proxied by inequality. We test our premises with panel data for Spain. Results show that polarization has a detrimental effect on health. We also find that the way the relevant population subgroups are defined is important: polarization is only significant if measured between education‐age groups for each region. Regional polarization is not significant. Our results are obtained conditional on a comprehensive set of controls, including absolute and relative income.