bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Botulinum toxin as a novel treatment for self‐mutilation in Lesch—Nyhan syndrome
Authors: Dabrowski Edward , Smathers Sarah A , Ralstrom Curt S , Nigro Michael A , Leleszi Jimmie P
Published: July 2010

Lesch–Nyhan syndrome (LNS) is an X‐linked recessive disorder resulting from a deficiency of the metabolic enzyme hypozanthine–guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (HPRT). This syndrome presents with abnormal metabolic and neurological manifestations including hyperuricemia, mental retardation*, spastic cerebral palsy (CP), dystonia, and self‐mutilation. The mechanism behind the severe self‐mutilating behavior exhibited by patients with LNS is unknown and remains one of the greatest obstacles in providing care to these patients. This report describes a 10‐year‐old male child with confirmed LNS who was treated for self‐mutilation of his hands, tongue, and lips with repeated botulinum toxin A (BTX‐A) injections into the bilateral masseters. Our findings suggest that treatment with BTX‐A affects both the central and peripheral nervous systems, resulting in reduced self‐abusive behavior in this patient.
Book Review
Authors: Connolly Kevin
Published: July 2010

Book Review in this Article

Animal Models of Movement Disorders
Trends, perinatal characteristics, and medical conditions in pervasive developmental disorders
Authors: Guillem Pascale , Cans Christine , Guinchat Vincent , Ratel Marc , Jouk Pierre‐Simon
Published: July 2010

Our aim was to study trends in the prevalence of pervasive developmental disorders (PDD) and to quantify their association with morphogenetic anomalies and with perinatal characteristics such as gestational age, birthweight, and hospitalization in a neonatal care unit. Data from a French morbidity register of childhood disabilities with the use of consistent definitions over time within the same geographical area were analyzed. The data of a total of 454 children (312 males, 142 females) with PDD, born between 1980 and 1993 and residing in Isére county, were recorded at the age of 7 years. The overall prevalence of PDD was 22.2 out of every 10 000. There was a significant increase, from 14.7 to 30.8 out of every 10 000, during the period of study. Among these children with PDD, morphogenetic anomalies were observed in 12.1% (95% confidence interval [CI] 9.3–15.5), and the hospitalization rate during the neonatal period was 22% (95% CI 17.0–27.5), which is significantly higher than the observed rates in the general population. The increase in the prevalence of PDD, the association with perinatal risk factors, and the high rate of neonatal hospitalization require further studies to investigate the reasons for and mechanisms of these developmental disorders.
Influence of equinus treatments on the vertical displacement of the body's centre of mass in children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Massaad Firas , Van Den Hecke Adélaïde , Renders Anne , Detrembleur Christine
Published: July 2010

We assessed the influence of equinus gait treatments on the vertical displacement of the body's centre of mass (COM) in 21 patients with cerebral palsy (14 males, 7 females; mean age 8y 9mo [SD 2y]; range 3y 7mo‐17y) presenting different topographical types (quadriplegia, n=1; diplegia, n=6; right hemiplegia, n=6; and left hemiplegia, n=8). Vertical COM displacement was computed from ground reaction forces, and lower limb kinematics was recorded simultaneously. Equinus gait was treated with non‐operative treatments (i.e. botulinum toxin injections and stretching casts) in 14 patients, and with operative treatments in seven patients. After non‐operative treatments, the entire ankle displacement shifted towards dorsiflexion throughout the gait cycle, but the amplitude of the third foot rocker (TR) and vertical COM displacement remained unchanged. However, after operative treatments, the amplitude of TR increased and vertical COM displacement decreased. A negative linear correlation was found between the former variables in all the patients where 53% of the changes in their vertical COM displacement, after equinus gait treatments, were explained by the changes in TR amplitude. In fact, TR remains a main gait determinant, reducing the vertical COM displacement after equinus gait treatment and influencing the general gait pattern.
Do the abilities of children with cerebral palsy explain their activities and participation?
Authors: Morris Christopher , Kurinczuk Jennifer J , Fitzpatrick Raymond , Rosenbaum Peter L
Published: July 2010

The aim of this study was to use family‐assessed instruments and details of children's impairments to explore factors affecting the activities and participation of children with cerebral palsy (CP). A postal survey was conducted with families of a geographically defined population of children with CP aged 6 to 12 years. Family‐assessed indices of children's activities and participation were the Activities Scale for Kids (ASK) and Lifestyle Assessment Questionnaire (LAQ‐CP). Families also assessed children's abilities using the Gross Motor Function and Manual Ability Classification Systems (GMFCS; MACS). Details of children's impairments were available from the 4Child epidemiological database and used with the GMFCS and MACS as explanatory variables in multiple regression analyses to identify their effect on children's activities and participation. Families of 175/314 (56%) children returned an assessment using the GMFCS and 129 (41%) children participated fully by returning all the questionnaires. Full participants (72 males, 57 females) did not differ from those who did not take part by their age, sex, CP characteristics, or associated impairments: GMFCS Level I‐25, Level II‐43, Level III‐15, Level IV‐14, Level V‐23; MACS Level I‐14, Level II‐30, Level III‐18, Level IV‐13, Level V‐13. Scores for the ASK and LAQ‐CP Physical Independence and Mobility domains were predicted well by children's movement, manual, and intellectual disability, and also, to some extent, by the presence of seizures or speech problems. LAQ‐CP domains for Economic and Clinical Burden and Social Integration were not well explained by children's abilities and impairments. Family assessment, therefore, offers a useful method for measuring children's activities and participation; however, currently available instruments do not fully represent all the domains in the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health. Children's abilities only partially explain their activities and participation.
Pacinioma of the cauda equina
Authors: Kojc Nika , MD Marjan Korŝiĉ , Popović Mara
Published: July 2010

Lesions composed of Pacinian corpuscles or showing Pacinian corpuscle differentiation have usually been described in relation to benign tumours of the peripheral nervous system or reactive hyperplastic processes. On the other hand, mature Pacinian corpuscles have occasionally been detected as part of intraspinal lumbosacral lipomas, a rare developmental anomaly usually associated with spina bifida. A lesion of the cauda equina composed of numerous mature Pacinian corpuscles and nerve fascicles embedded in adipose tissue in association with spina bifida occulta is described in a 5‐month‐old male with a sacral red papula. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a cord‐like mass in the region of the cauda equina, presumably connected to the subcutis. With the exception of a low lying, tethered spinal cord, there was no neurological deficit and the range of motor development was normal. In March 2005, at 17 months, surgery was carried out. A cord of yellow tissue was found running from the subcutis through the bone defect into the lumbosacral spinal canal. Intradurally, it ran parallel to the cauda equina, terminating at the conus medullaris. Fifteen months after the surgery the development of the child was normal. Only two similar cases have been reported so far. Due to their occurrence in the sacrococcygeal region and association with developmental anomalies, they have been regarded as malformations and the term Pacinioma has been suggested. Our case with clusters of Pacinian corpuscles may represent a rare variant of complex intraspinal lumbosacral lipomas, closely related to Paciniomas reported by Bale.
MM:1 2008 Fred P. Sage Award Winner Home exercise therapy program for pediatric brachial plexus palsy
Authors: NELSON VS
Published: July 2010

Approximately 1–2 of every 1000 children born will sustain Pediatric Brachial Plexus Palsy (PBPP). PBPP results from the stretching of the nerves of the brachial plexus, leading to loss of function of the hand, arm and shoulder. While some children will recover spontaneously, between 10% and 30% require life‐long treatment. An essential component of the treatment is exercise therapy. However, because the exercises are not intuitive, it is difficult for children and their caregivers to perform these exercises consistently and correctly at home. This unique Home Exercise Therapy Program for infants, toddlers, and older children with Brachial Plexus Palsy is a novel DVD program that guides patients and their caretakers through exercises to increase strength and flexibility. The program includes a detailed demonstration of the range‐of‐motion movements and an easy‐to‐use ‘follow‐along’ routine. Once the movements are mastered, the active play segment will make the exercises fun to do, and the strengthening segments offers tips for everyday activities. As an added feature, a stimulating daily routine will further encourage older children to participate independently by following the movements illustrated by our occupational therapists. Including these exercises as part of the child's daily routine of play and child care can make a significant difference in the child's life. Think of it as another way of playing with the child – an activity that can be fun, while paying dividends for a lifetime.

Acknowledgements:

Patient Program Participants and Their Families High Point School, Washtenaw Intermediate School District; Faculty and Staff of the University of Michigan Brachial Plexus Program; Evolution Media Funding generously provided by: Carls Foundation FRIENDS of the University of Michigan Hospitals.
MM:4 The children with special health care needs podcast series
Authors: CARBONE P
Published: July 2010

The Children with Special Health Care Needs (CSHCN) Podcast Series utilizes a new medium (the podcast) to present current and state‐of‐the‐art clinical reviews to pediatric residents and pediatricians who care for children with disabilities. The podcast represents an innovative method of presenting teaching materials. Audio content can be downloaded to portable media players on demand, and later listened to at the user's convenience. Podcasting is spreading quickly because of the rapid adoption of MP3 players, increasing familiarity with electronic transfer of information, and the desire of learners to have fresh content. The CSHCN Podcast Series is a set of interview‐style lectures that are posted on ‘Podcasting from the U’ (http://www.utah.edu/podcast), a website recently developed by the University of Utah for public access of audio‐based educational content. Each podcast addresses an issue relevant to the care of medically complex pediatric patients. The podcasts included in this submission are the third and fourth in the series. The third podcast is an interview with Nancy Murphy, MD on the diagnosis and management of cerebral palsy. The fourth podcast is a critical evaluation of autism screening recommendations by Paul Carbone, MD. All podcasts in the series can be downloaded free of charge and serve to improve dissemination of new and important information to pediatricians and trainees. We are in the process of incorporating these podcasts into the pediatric residency curriculum and evaluating their effectiveness as teaching tools.

Acknowledgements:

This work is posted on the Podcasting from the U website, maintained by the University of Utah Department of Marketing and Communication. Jason Smith, coordinator of the Podcasting from the U website, assists in editing.
MM:5 Orientation and mobility – moving towards independence: the early years
Authors: MATSUBA CA , GRAHAM M
Published: July 2010

Vision along with all the other senses, pulls together meaningful information about the environment, providing motivation to experience the world. However, children with visual impairment have limited opportunities to interact in their environment. This potentially leads to delays in concept development. Early orientation and mobility education provides strategies to overcome obstacles in the presence of limited vision. Orientation is being aware of where you are, where you want to go and how you want to get there. Mobility is moving from place to place. With support, children with visual impairment can develop these independent skills. Through this DVD, caregivers are given tools to support their child with visual impairment to explore their environment. The material highlights strategies to encourage early orientation and mobility skills by introducing early motor developmental progression from body positioning to walking, encouraging motor skills. In addition, common orientation and mobility skills such as; positional concepts, landmarks, trailing, body protection, guiding, push toys, and mobility cane, are provided. In response to community needs, this educational material was developed for families, early childhood developmental professionals, and therapists. The material is presented chronologically, focusing on the individual child's ability. By using real life examples, children with varying degrees of visual impairment demonstrate common strategies to explore their environment. After reviewing the material, caregivers will be better able to understand the importance of early orientation and mobility.

Acknowledgements:

Ministry of Children and Family, British Columbia BC Children's Hospital Foundation.
MM:6 Wake‐up call: everything you always wanted to know about working with people with disabilities but were afraid to ask
Authors: FIALA LS
Published: July 2010

‘Wake‐up call’ was developed as a training DVD for staff that work with people with disabilities (known as ‘consumers’) and addresses the way that consumers want staff to speak, work, relate, and interact with them. It's all about attitude and respect. It is the result of a year‐long project that began when Consumer Self‐Advocacy groups at four UCP/NYC Day Habilitation programs around the city met in November 2006 to discuss the expectations of people with disabilities. The resulting 12‐minute edited film will be used for training new UCP/NYC staff and will be available for distribution around the country and Canada. ‘Wake‐up call’ features Geri Jewell (HBO's Deadwood), who narrates and performs, and Commissioner Matthew Sapolin of the Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities in New York City. Sapolin, who is blind, contributed his own thoughts, including his reluctance to be considered an ‘inspiration’ or ‘hero’. As Jewell comments on screen, ‘everyone in this video has one thing in common – they are people like me and you’. Wake‐up call also features the song ‘I Need To Wake UP’ by award‐winning singer/songwriter Melissa Etheridge. The film was co‐produced by UCP/NYC staff Scott Feldman, Director of Waterside residences, and Lois Silver Fiala, Media Manager. Silver Fiala, who has won several awards for previous films, found the non‐scripted format to be extremely enlightening. ‘After working with consumers for over 20 years, it was fascinating for me to gain even further insight into what they have to say’.
The meanings and implications of receiving care
Authors: Lundgren Solveig M. , Berg Linda
Published: July 2010

Scand J Caring Sci; 2011; 25; 235–242
 
The meanings and implications of receiving care

The aim of this study was to gain an understanding of the concept of receiving care, from the perspective of the general public, nursing students and graduate nurses. The need for, and acceptance of care can occur at many different times during a human life and is sometimes necessary for survival. Experiences of receiving care are often retained as a tacit and subconscious awareness and knowledge. It is reasonable to expect that perceptions of receiving care can differ depending on different situation and experiences. Data were gathered by a questionnaire containing an open‐ended question, which were presented to and answered by the general public, nursing students and graduate nurses. Content analysis was used to analyse the question posed. Having analysed the data, one main theme could be identified; being of value despite any potential disadvantages which include both edifying and not very edifying aspects. This study demonstrates that if one is in need of receiving care, there are not many choices available. Those requiring care must accept the situation and be prepared to leave themselves in the hands of caregivers. Receiving care highlights the human mode of being, which includes experiences of being exposed, which in turn motivates a seeking for valued and appreciated mutual interactions within the caring process. Within current nursing practice, our findings confirm the necessity of nurses to be fully aware of the importance of mutuality when giving care to patients. It is essential that modern nursing education continuously review the many complex aspects involved in the giving of, and receiving care.
Gender‐specific features of plasmatic and circulating cell alterations as risk factors in cardiovascular disease
Authors: Straface Elisabetta , Lista Pasquale , Gambardella Lucrezia , Franconi Flavia , Malorni Walter
Published: July 2010

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in the Western countries. Several epidemiological studies have hypothesized a gender disparity in the pathogenesis and progression of CVD. For instance, women develop CVD when they are about 10 years older than men and, typically, after menopause. However, considering that women are often excluded from research studies, sex differences in CVD remains a frontier for discovery. Very important is thus the identification of risk factors allowing us to diagnose or predict cardiovascular events taking into account gender disparities. In this review, we will examine some of the major challenges in the discovery and validation of cardiovascular biomarkers in a gender perspective. In particular, we will consider classical (hypertension, smoking, diabetes, dyslipidemia, physical inactivity) and novel (inflammation markers, markers of endothelial dysfunction, markers of coronary disease) risk factors reporting gender differences. The aim of this review was to provide an overview on current knowledge on sex‐associated cardiovascular determinants with the aim to improve CVD diagnostic and prognostic clinical courses and to develop new and gender‐biased prevention strategies.
Pharmacological preconditioning by diazoxide downregulates cardiac L‐type Ca2+ channels
Authors: González G , Zaldívar D , Carrillo ED , Hernández A , García MC , Sánchez JA
Published: July 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Pharmacological preconditioning (PPC) with mitochondrial ATP‐sensitive K+ (mitoKATP) channel openers such as diazoxide, leads to cardioprotection against ischaemia. However, effects on Ca2+ homeostasis during PPC, particularly changes in Ca2+ channel activity, are poorly understood. We investigated the effects of PPC on cardiac L‐type Ca2+ channels.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH PPC was induced in isolated hearts and enzymatically dissociated cardiomyocytes from adult rats by preincubation with diazoxide. We measured reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and Ca2+ signals associated with action potentials using fluorescent probes, and L‐type currents using a whole‐cell patch‐clamp technique. Levels of the α1c subunit of L‐type channels in the cellular membrane were measured by Western blot.

KEY RESULTS PPC was accompanied by a 50% reduction in α1c subunit levels, and by a reversible fall in L‐type current amplitude and Ca2+ transients. These effects were prevented by the ROS scavenger N‐acetyl‐L‐cysteine (NAC), or by the mitoKATP channel blocker 5‐hydroxydecanoate (5‐HD). PPC signficantly reduced infarct size, an effect blocked by NAC and 5‐HD. Nifedipine also conferred protection against infarction when applied during the reperfusion period. Downregulation of the α1c subunit and Ca2+ channel function were prevented in part by the protease inhibitor leupeptin.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS PPC downregulated the α1c subunit, possibly through ROS. Downregulation involved increased degradation of the Ca2+ channel, which in turn reduced Ca2+ influx, which may attenuate Ca2+ overload during reperfusion.
Histamine receptors and cancer pharmacology
Authors: Medina Vanina A. , Rivera Elena S.
Published: July 2010

Considerable evidence has been collected indicating that histamine can modulate proliferation of different normal and malignant cells. High histamine biosynthesis and content together with histamine receptors have been reported in different human neoplasias including melanoma, colon and breast cancer, as well as in experimental tumours in which histamine has been postulated to behave as an important paracrine and autocrine regulator of proliferation. The discovery of the human histamine H4receptor in different tissues has contributed to our understanding of histamine role in numerous physiological and pathological conditions revealing novel functions for histamine and opening new perspectives in histamine pharmacology research. In the present review we aimed to briefly summarize current knowledge on histamine and histamine receptor involvement in cancer before focusing on some recent evidence supporting the novel role of histamine H4receptor in cancer progression representing a promising molecular target and avenue for cancer drug development.

LINKED ARTICLESBJPhas previously published aHistaminethemed issue (2009). To view this issue visithttp://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2009.157.issue‐1
Rabeprazole Can Overcome the Impact of CYP2C19 Polymorphism on Quadruple Therapy
Authors: Kuo Chao‐Hung , Wang Sophie S.W. , Hsu Wen‐Hung , Kuo Fu‐Chen , Weng Bi‐Chuang , Li Chia‐Jung , Hsu Ping‐I , Chen Angela , Hung Wen‐Chun , Yang Yuan‐Chieh , Wang Wen‐Ming , Wu Deng‐Chyang
Published: July 2010

Objectives: The prospective study was designed to clarify the impact of CYP2C19 on quadruple therapies and survey the efficacies of rabeprazole‐based quadruple therapy forHelicobacter pyloriinfection after failure of standard triple therapies.

Patients and Methods: From January 2007 to March 2009, 1055H. pylori‐infected patients received standard triple regimens (proton‐pump inhibitor (PPI), clarithromycin, and amoxicillin).Helicobacter pylorieradication was achieved in 865 (81.9%) subjects. One hundred ninety eradication‐failure patients were enrolled and randomly assigned to receive a 7‐day eradication therapy. Ninety‐six patients were treated with esomeprazole‐based quadruple rescue therapies (EB), while 94 patients were treated with rabeprazole‐based quadruple rescue therapies (RB). Follow‐up endoscopy was done 16 weeks later to assess the treatment response. Patients’ responses,CYP2C19genotypes, and antibiotics resistances were also examined.

Results: Intention‐to‐treat analysis revealed that RB had better eradication rates than EB (EB: 72.9%; 95% CI: 64.9–80.9% and RB: 78.7%; 95% CI 72.5–84.9%) (pvalue = .543). Per‐protocol results were EB = 75.3%; 95% CI: 70.3–80.3% and RB = 85.1%; 95% CI: 80.6–89.6% (pvalue = .0401). Both regimens had similar compliance (pvalue = 0.155) and adverse events (pvalue = 0.219). We also surveyed those patients without resistance of any antibiotics. RB still showed better outcome than EB. Our data showed that esomeprazole‐based regimen and CYP2C19 Hom EM genotype were important predictors for eradication failure.

Conclusions: In quadruple therapy, rabeprazole‐based regimens had better efficacy than esomeprazole‐based regimens. CYP2C19 polymorphism also played an important role in quadruple therapy. It seems advisable to change PPI to rabeprazole in second‐line quadruple therapy.
Seroprevalence and Potential Risk Factors for Helicobacter pylori Infection in Brazilian Children
Authors: Dattoli Vitor Camilo Cavalcante , Veiga Rafael Valente , Da Cunha Sergio Souza , Pontes‐de‐Carvalho Lain Carlos , Barreto Maurício Lima , Alcântara‐Neves Neuza Maria
Published: July 2010

Background:  Helicobacter pylori infection has been proved to be of great relevance to public health in unindustrialized countries, especially in low socioeconomic groups. Poor hygiene, deficient sanitation, and crowded conditions have been reported as risk factors for this infection. In this work, we investigated whether social and demographic characteristics were associated with anti‐H. pylori IgG antibodies in 1104 children aged 4–11 years old from Salvador, a large city located in northeastern Brazil.

Methods:  Standardized questionnaires were used to obtain social, demographic, and environmental data for the studied population in two periods of time (from 1997 to 2003 and in 2005). Anti‐H. pylori IgG antibodies were assessed by indirect enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay in 2005.

Results:  Anti‐H. pylori IgG antibody was present in 28.7% of the children. Among the studied variables, the following were positively associated with the presence of anti‐H. pylori antibodies in multivariable analyses: age above 8 years old (OR = 1.72, 95% CI = 1.23–2.40), a larger sibling number (OR = 1.66, 95% CI = 1.26–2.18), nursery attendance (OR = 1.49, 95% CI = 1.04–2.12), location of the house at an unpaved street (OR = 2.03, 95% CI = 1.44–2.87) and absence of a flush toilet (OR = 1.32, 95% CI = 1.00–1.74).

Conclusion:  Our data show that H. pylori infection in children from a major Brazilian city is associated with variables indicative of a crowded environment and deficient sanitation/habitation conditions, leading to the conclusion that improvements in hygiene and social conditions may protect children against this infection.
A Thin‐Layer Liquid Culture Technique for the Growth of Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Joo Jung‐Soo , Park Kyung‐Chul , Song Jae‐Young , Kim Dong‐Hyun , Lee Kyung‐Ja , Kwon Young‐Cheol , Kim Jung‐Min , Kim Kyung‐Mi , Youn Hee‐Shang , Kang Hyung‐Lyun , Baik Seung‐Chul , Lee Woo‐Kon , Cho Myung‐Je , Rhee Kwang‐Ho
Published: July 2010

Background and Aims:  Several attempts have been successful in liquid cultivation of Helicobaccter pylori. However, there is a need to improve the growth of H. pylori in liquid media in order to get affluent growth and a simple approach for examining bacterial properties. We introduce here a thin‐layer liquid culture technique for the growth of H. pylori.

Methods:  A thin‐layer liquid culture system was established by adding liquid media to a 90‐mm diameter Petri dish. Optimal conditions for bacterial growth were investigated and then viability, growth curve, and released proteins were examined.

Results:  Maximal growth of H. pylori was obtained by adding 3 mL of brucella broth supplemented with 10% horse to a Petri dish. H. pylori grew in both DMEM and RPMI‐1640 supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum and 0.5% yeast extract. Serum‐free RPMI‐1640 supported the growth of H. pylori when supplemented with dimethyl‐β‐cyclodextrin (200 μg/mL) and 1% yeast extract. Under optimal growth, H. pylori grew exponentially for 28 hours, reaching a density of 3.4 OD600 with a generation time of 3.3 hours. After 24 hours, cultures at a cell density of 1.0 OD600 contained 1.3 ± 0.1 × 109 CFU/mL. γ‐Glutamyl transpeptidase, nuclease, superoxide dismutase, and urease were not detected in culture supernatants at 24 hours in thin‐layer liquid culture, but were present at 48 hours, whereas alcohol dehydrogenase, alkylhydroperoxide reductase, catalase, and vacuolating cytotoxin were detected at 24 hours.

Conclusions:  Thin‐layer liquid culture technique is feasible, and can serve as a versatile liquid culture technique for investigating bacterial properties of H. pylori.
Recipients potentially infected with parvovirus B19 by red blood cell products
Authors: Hourfar Michael Kai , Mayr‐Wohlfart Uschi , Themann Anna , Sireis Walid , Seifried Erhard , Schrezenmeier Hubert , Schmidt Michael
Published: July 2010

BACKGROUND:Since 2000, blood donor screening for parvovirus B19 (B19) by nucleic acid testing (NAT) at the Ulm Institute has been conducted 6 to 8 weeks postdonation, that is, after transfusion of cellular blood products, whereas at the Frankfurt Institute all donations are screened before releasing any blood product. In this study, we evaluated the infectivity of B19‐positive blood products in relation to the virus concentration in the transfused blood component.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS:Recipients were classified into two groups (A, transfused with blood products with B19 virus load less than 105IU/mL; and B, transfused with blood products with B19 virus load greater than 105IU/mL). Phylogenetic analyses were done for B19 DNA–positive donor and recipient pairs in the variant VP‐1u genome region. All samples were investigated for immunoglobulin (Ig)M and IgG B19 antibodies.

RESULTS:B19 DNA was detected in 9 of 18 recipients of red blood cells (RBCs) from Group B, whereas none of the 16 recipients of RBCs from Group A were positive for B19 DNA (p = 0.016). Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated identical genomic sequences between the donors and recipients. Because recipient B19 DNA and antibody results were not available before transfusion, we interpret our overall data to indicate equivocal evidence of B19 transmission by RBC transfusion.

CONCLUSION:B19 transmission by cellular blood products correlates with the virus concentration and the concentration of neutralizing antibodies. Thus, blood donor screening for B19 by minipool NAT should be done to supply at‐risk patients (e.g., immunosuppressed patients) with B19‐negative blood components.
The epidemiology of blood component transfusion in Catalonia, Northeastern Spain
Authors: Bosch M. Alba , Contreras Enric , Madoz Pedro , Ortiz Pilar , Pereira Arturo , Pujol M. Mar ,   on behalf of the Catalonian Blood Transfusion Epidemiology Study Group
Published: July 2010

BACKGROUND: Epidemiologic information on blood component usage can help improve the utilization of transfusion resources.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Crosssectional survey in 2007 that included every hospital in Catalonia. Clinical data of blood recipients, including the four‐digit International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision, Clinical Modification codes and the indication for transfusion, were prospectively collected according to an established protocol.

RESULTS: In total, 19,148 red blood cell (RBC) units, 1812 platelet (PLT) doses, and 3070 plasma units, transfused into 8019 patients (median age, 71 years; 52% males), were surveyed. Half the RBC units were used by patients older than 70 years. Specific diagnosis and procedures with the highest RBC use were lower limb orthopedic surgery (10.6% of all units) and gastrointestinal hemorrhage (6%). Therapeutic plasmapheresis (8.1%) and heart valve surgery (7.2%) were the procedures with the highest plasma use. Oncohematology patients accounted for 73% of transfused PLTs, more that two‐thirds being administered for hemorrhage prophylaxis. Acute hemorrhage was the most common indication for RBC and plasma transfusion. Among all blood recipients, 80% received only RBCs and 6.9% received only plasma and/or PLTs, without concomitant RBCs. The population transfusion incidence rates were 35 RBC units, three PLT doses, and 6 plasma units per 1000 population‐year. Demographic changes anticipate a 30% increase in RBC transfusion by year 2030.

CONCLUSIONS: These results allow for identification of blood uses that are susceptible to improvement, help appraise the expected yield of blood safety measures, and will assist in planning the future blood supply.
Old Habits Are Hard to Change: A Case Study of Israeli Real Estate Contracts
Authors: Teichman Doron
Published: July 2010

This article presents a case study on the persistent dollarization norm in the Israeli real estate market. For many years Israeli real estate contracts have been denominated in American dollars. This contracting norm has remained surprisingly stable despite tremendous changes in the structure of the Israeli foreign currency market that severed the connection between the dollar and local inflation and added significant risks to exchange rates. Using an array of theoretical tools, I explain this puzzling phenomenon and demonstrate the centrality of social norms to the design of high-stakes contracts. Finally, I explore the interaction between social norms and the law and highlight the potential obstacles to regulating contracting norms.
Legitimacy and Deterrence Effects in Counterterrorism Policing: A Study of Muslim Americans
Authors: Tyler Tom R. , Schulhofer Stephen , Huq Aziz Z.
Published: July 2010

This study considers the circumstances under which members of the Muslim American community voluntarily cooperate with police efforts to combat terrorism. Cooperation is defined to include both a general receptivity toward helping the police in antiterror work and the specific willingness to alert police to terror-related risks in a community. We compare two perspectives on why people cooperate with law enforcement, both developed with reference to general policing, in the context of antiterror policing and specifically among members of the Muslim American community. The first is instrumental. It suggests that people cooperate because they see tangible benefits that outweigh any costs. The second perspective is normative. It posits that people respond to their belief that police are a legitimate authority. On this view we link legitimacy to the fairness and procedural justice of police behavior. Data from a study involving interviews with Muslim Americans in New York City between March and June 2009 strongly support the normative model by finding that the procedural justice of police activities is the primary factor shaping legitimacy and cooperation with the police.
Tales of Deviance and Control: On Space, Rules, and Law in Squatter Settlements
Authors: Van Gelder Jean-Louis
Published: July 2010

In Latin American cities, around a third of the urban population lives in tenure situations that can be designated as informal, yet variation in the ways and extent to which these arrangements do not comply with law is extensive. Furthermore, informal dwellers often employ a variety of strategies to legitimize and ultimately legalize their tenure, implying a dynamic rather than a static relationship between illegality and legality. Conceiving of land tenure in dichotomous terms, as simply being either legal or illegal, therefore, fails to reflect this diversity, nor does it capture the evolving nature of the relationship between informal settlements and the state system. Drawing from the development of squatter settlements in Buenos Aires, this article proposes an alternative perspective and shows how settlements alternate strategies of noncompliance with adaptation to the state legal system to gradually increase their legality.
Does maternal stress influence winter survival of offspring in root voles Microtus oeconomus? A field experiment
Authors: Bian Jiang‐hui , Wu Yan , Getz Lowell L. , Cao Yi‐Fan , Chen Fang , Yang Le
Published: July 2010

Maternal stress can have long‐term adverse consequences on immunocompetence and disease risk of offspring, and winter survival is a crucial demographic parameter in the life‐history of an individual that can substantially affect northern rodent population dynamics. An understanding of the effects of maternal stress on winter survival of offspring may help identify mechanisms driving population fluctuations of northern small mammals. Thus, we assessed the effects of maternal stress, resulting from high population densities, on winter survival of first generation (F1) and second generation (F2) in root voles Microtus oeconomus. Replicate high‐ and low‐density enclosed parental populations were established, from which we obtained F1 generation that were used to establish new enclosed, equal‐density populations. The adults of the high‐density parental populations had higher corticosterone levels, an indication of physiological stress, than did those of the low‐density parental populations. Over‐winter survival of the F1 generation voles from the low‐density parental populations was greater than that of those from the high‐density parental populations. Over‐winter survival of F2 generation voles did not differ between the two treatments. Our results suggest that maternal stress affected over‐winter survival of first generations but not second generations. Reduced immunocompetence, resulting from high population density stresses, transferred to offspring may be a factor in annual (winter) population declines. Because the effect is transitory, i.e. immunocompetence of F2 voles is not affected, reduced immunocompetence resulting from high density stresses would not contribute to lengthy periods of low population densities that are characteristic of multi‐annual population fluctuations.
Patellar tendon shortening after treatment of patellar instability with a patellar tendon medialization procedure
Authors: Äärimaa V. , Ranne J. , Mattila K. , Rahi K. , Virolainen P. , Hiltunen A.
Published: July 2010

Patellar instability is a multifactorial disorder. Patella alta is strongly associated with patellar instability. We hypothesize that procedures of the patellar tendon such as medialization may shorten the patellar tendon. In this retrospective study, 41 patients with patellar instability were treated operatively with a patellar tendon medialization procedure. Twenty‐eight knees were treated using a modified Roux–Goldthwait method and 16 using a modified Elmslie–Trillat method. The patients were followed 2–7 years after the operation. Pre‐ and post‐operative x‐rays were analyzed with particular emphasis on patellar tendon length, patellofemoral congruence angle and osteoarthritis. The final clinical outcome was assessed using the Lysholm score and clinical examination. In both groups patients were generally satisfied with the result of the operation and there was no significant difference in Lysholm scores at follow‐up. However, patellofemoral osteoarthritic changes increased in both groups compared with the pre‐operative status. The patellar tendon length was reduced in both groups, but significantly, by 7%, in the Roux–Goldthwait group. We conclude that patellar tendon shortens after a Roux–Goldthwait procedure.
Safety, effectiveness and comparability of professional skin cleansers
Authors: Terhaer Flora K. , Bock Meike , Fartasch Manigé , Gabard Bernard , Elsner Peter , Kleesz Peter , Landeck Lilla , Pohrt Ute , Seyfarth Florian , Schliemann Sibylle , Diepgen Thomas L. , Zagrodnik Fred , John Swen Malte
Published: July 2010

Background: There are no widely‐accepted methodical specifications with which to objectify cleansing effectiveness and skin compatibility of occuptional skin cleansing products in Europe. Therefore the German Social Insurance Agency (DGUV) initiated a study with the goal to evaluate such products in view of the potency and the safety of hand cleansers. A market analysis was a part of the project.

Methodology: The product descriptions and safety data sheets of 120 products (5–20/manufacturer) of 11 manufacturers were evaluated between 02/2008 and 04/2008.

Results: The manufacturers used mainly ingredients of low irritancy. The declaration of the applied ingredients was in the majority of the cases correctly labeled according to the INCI Declaration. Although there was documentation of skin tolerability for most products, the manufacturers used widely differing tests of skin compatibility. Evidences for cleansing effectiveness were not declared or have not been provided. One manufacturer even promised medical effects of its products. There was no uniform general classification of products making it difficult to identify characteristics of cleansers and choose between them.

Conclusions: Presently, there are no commonly accepted criteria to classify products in view of cleansing effectiveness und skin compatibility. Generally accepted criteria and test methods are needed for the evaluation of hand cleansers in order to provide the possibility of transparency and comparability.
New technologies extend the scope of newborn blood‐spot screening, but old problems remain unresolved
Authors: Pollitt Rodney J
Published: July 2010

The potential of newborn blood‐spot screening is expanding rapidly with the development of new analytical techniques and treatment methods. At the same time, some existing programmes, particularly that for congenital hypothyroidism, are coming under scrutiny because of suspicion that they are being shaped by analytical performance rather than evidence of clinical need. Screening policy varies greatly from country to country.

Conclusion:  Ethical and political considerations may sometimes override formal scientific decision models.
Seeking Beauty in Art: Some Implications of a Thomistic Statement about Glass Saws
Authors: Storck Thomas
Published: July 2010

Starting from a statement of Thomas Aquinas to the effect that even though a saw made of glass would be more beautiful than one made of iron, it would not fulfil its artistic end, it is argued that we have largely lost an awareness that the fine arts in their pursuit of beauty must also have a connection to some end, just as the saw does to cutting, and that seeking beauty in the abstract and divorced from such an end has had deleterious effects, including the loss of the artist's social role, the disappearance of the fine arts from everyday life and their replacement by objects of mass culture. This process is particularly illustrated by the history of the connection between poetry and music.
The Trinity and the Life of the Christian: A Liturgical Catechism
Authors: Ayres Lewis
Published: July 2010

In this article – the first Bishop Kevin Dunn Memorial Lecture ‐ I argue that one of the most important resources available for Catholics seeking to understand or teach Trinitarian doctrine is the liturgy of the Mass. I suggest that the text of the liturgy (novus ordo) offers us three patterns of Trinitarian speech that we should emulate. The first ascribes equal glory to Father, Son and Spirit. The second pattern teaches us that the fundamental story of Christian faith is a Trinitarian one. The creation comes from the Father, through the Son and in the Spirit; salvation is a process of being incorporated into the Son by the Spirit so that we may be led to the Father. This narrative is seen particularly clearly in the new eucharistic prayers of the Roman rite. The third pattern is that of using such theological formulae“as one nature and three persons”. These formulae are used sparingly and in contexts which emphasize that the realities of which they speak remain mysterious ‐ and must be the subject of our worship if our understanding is to grow. In our thought, teaching and prayer we should be attentive to the relative priority that these liturgical patterns suggest.
Heloise: A Christian View on Ethics and Love
Authors: Duran Jane
Published: July 2010

The writings of Heloise are examined for their philosophical content, with special reference to the notions of friendship and love. The work of Mews, Dronke, Clanchy and others is cited, and it is concluded that Heloise's gifts as a writer and thinker have been overlooked and merit more careful examination.
FRUCTOOLIGOSACCHARIDES BASED LOW CALORIE GULAB JAMUN: STUDIES ON THE TEXTURE, MICROSTRUCTURE AND SENSORY ATTRIBUTES
Authors: RENUKA B. , PRAKASH M. , PRAPULLA S.G.
Published: July 2010

Gulab jamun, a poplar milk‐based traditional Indian sweet, is prepared by deep‐frying balls of dough in oil, followed by dipping them in sugar syrup. Suitability of fructooligosaccharides (FOS) and FOS‐sucrose blend over sucrose and its effects on color, textural, sensory and microbiological attributes of gulab jamun were investigated. FOS and FOS‐sucrose blend did not affect color values and sensory scores of gulab jamun, adversely. However, the increase in hardness, adhesiveness and gumminess observed were correlated to an increase in compactness of microstructure of jamun prepared with FOS or FOS‐sucrose blend as indicated by scanning electron microscopy. They also showed an FOS content of 17.58 and 9.18 g/100 g, respectively, which slightly decreased during storage for 4 days at ambient temperature (25 ± 2C). The results indicate the potential of FOS as a low calorie and healthier alternative for sucrose in the preparation of some of the popular Indian sweet delicacies.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The consumption of sweets is an integral part of the Indian dietary system. Present day consumers are more health conscious and desire to have low sugar in food products and, hence, low or reduced calorie food products containing sugar alternatives have gained special importance. The results have shown the possibility of using fructooligosaccharides (FOS), a low calorie prebiotic as an effective replacement either fully or partially for the preparation of most popular Indian sweetmeat, i.e., gulab jamun. The manufacture of indigenous dairy products with low calorie prebiotic will provide a successful outlet for traditional milk products, and this will provide an alternate variety to the health conscious consumers. The present investigations have given all the positive indications for the use of FOS in the preparation of gulab jamun, which could also be cherished by the obese and the diabetics whose number is alarmingly increasing.
COST‐EFFECTIVE AND NONDESTRUCTIVE TEXTURAL ASSESSMENT OF FISH FRESHNESS VIA SYSTEM IDENTIFICATION PRINCIPLES
Authors: GRIGORAKIS K. , DIMOGIANOPOULOS D.
Published: July 2010

This paper introduces a cost‐effective, rapid and nondestructive methodology exploiting system identification principles for monitoring the textural changes of fish during ice storage. Gilthead sea bream stored in ice for 0 (freshly killed) and 6 days are placed on a spring‐based weight scale and suffer a single, light and reproducible shock by a mallet. The reaction force, measured by the scale and recorded (throughout time) as an electrical signal, is analyzed via system identification principles for estimating the fish stiffness and damping ability in each freshness stage. Results highlight significant and highly repeatable reductions of the fish damping in 6 days of ice storage, due to textural changes undermining its ability of absorbing the shock‐induced energy. The methodology correlates well with organoleptic findings, describing significant elasticity loss in the 6th day ice‐stored fish. Thus, the proposed nondestructive methodology shows potential for cost‐effectively estimating textural changes in fish and for correlating them with freshness.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The present methodology showed that a cost‐effective experimental setup used along with simple but carefully executed tests and basic principles of system identification may reliably measure physical changes in fish, even in high‐quality shelf‐life stages. Thus, it could serve as an improvement upon methods indicating degree of spoilage. Its potential practical applications include fisheries and the aquaculture industry, as well as fish freshness evaluation in lab tests.