Home About us Contact
|
Home About us Contact | ||
|
|
||
Several Aspects (several + aspect)
Selected AbstractsEarly motor repertoire is related to level of self-mobility in children with cerebral palsy at school ageDEVELOPMENTAL MEDICINE & CHILD NEUROLOGY, Issue 11 2009JANNEKE LM BRUGGINK MD Aim, To determine the predictive value of the early motor repertoire for the level of self-mobility in children with cerebral palsy (CP) at school age. Method, Video recordings were made at 11 to 17 weeks post-term of 37 preterm infants (20 males, 17 females) who later developed CP. The early motor repertoire was assessed by obtaining a motor optimality score. At 6 to 12 years, children were classified according to the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS). Results, Of 37 children (mean gestational age 29.1wks, SD 1.9; mean birthweight 1273g, SD 324), nine had unilateral and 28 had bilateral spastic CP. Twelve children were in GMFCS level I, three level II, 10 level III, four level IV, and eight level V. The absence of the age-adequate motor repertoire, a cramped motor repertoire, an abnormal kicking pattern, and a non-flat supine posture were associated with lower levels of self-mobility (,2 for trend test, p<0.05). Predictive for a low level of self-mobility was a cramped motor repertoire/non-flat supine posture (positive predictive values [PPV] 100%, negative predictive values [NPV] 54%). Predictive for a high level of self-mobility was a non-cramped repertoire/flat supine posture (PPV 80%, NPV 74%). Interpretation, Several aspects of the motor repertoire at 11 to 17 weeks post-term predicted the degree of functional limitations in children with CP at school age. [source] Temporal distribution of clinical seizures over the 24-h day: A retrospective observational study in a tertiary epilepsy clinicEPILEPSIA, Issue 9 2009Wytske A. Hofstra Summary Purpose:, Very few studies have evaluated seizure occurrence in humans over the 24-h day; data from children are particularly scarce. Circadian patterns in seizure occurrence may be of importance in epilepsy research and may have important implications in diagnosis and therapy. Methods:, We have analyzed clinical seizures of 176 consecutive patients (76 children, 100 adults) who had continuous electroencephalography (EEG) and video monitoring lasting more than 22 h. Several aspects of seizures were noted, including classification, time of day, origin, and sleep stage. Results:, More than 800 seizures were recorded. Significantly more seizures were observed from 11:00 to 17:00 h, and from 23:00 to 05:00 h significantly fewer seizures were seen. The daytime peak incidences were observed in seizures overall, complex partial seizures (in children and adults), seizures of extratemporal origin (in children), and seizures of temporal origin (in adults). Incidences significantly lower than expected were seen in the period 23:00 to 05:00 h in seizures overall, complex partial seizures (in children and adults), and in tonic seizures (in children). In addition, significantly fewer seizures of temporal (in children and adults) and extratemporal origin (in children) were observed in this period. Discussion:, The results suggest that certain types of seizures have a strong tendency to occur in true diurnal patterns. These patterns are characterized by a peak during midday and a low in the early night. [source] EFNS guideline on diagnosis and management of limb girdle muscular dystrophiesEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGY, Issue 12 2007F. Norwood The limb girdle muscular dystrophies (LGMD) are termed as such as they share the characteristic feature of muscle weakness predominantly affecting the shoulder and pelvic girdles; their classification has been completely revised in recent years because of elucidation of many of the underlying genetic and protein alterations in the various subtypes. An array of diagnostic measures is possible but with varying ease of use and availability. Several aspects of muscle cell function appear to be involved in the causation of muscle pathology. These cellular variations may confer some specific clinical features thus permitting recognition of the LGMD subtype and hence directing appropriate levels of monitoring and intervention. Despite an extensive literature on the individual limb girdle dystrophies, these publications may be impenetrable for the general neurologist in this increasingly complex field. The proposed guidelines suggest an approach to the diagnosis and monitoring of the limb girdle dystrophies in a manner accessible to general neurologists. [source] Nano-characterization of Cast Structures by FIB-Tomography,ADVANCED ENGINEERING MATERIALS, Issue 1-2 2008F. Lasagni In this communication, the three dimensional architectures of different Al-Si-(Mg) alloys are analyzed using SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy)/FIB (Focus Ion Beam), EDS (Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy)/FIB and SEM-EDS/FIB tomographic methods. Several aspects for the imaging and quantification of the results are discussed describing the advantages and limitations of the methods to resolve submicron structures. [source] Fatigue crack nucleation and growth in filled natural rubberFATIGUE & FRACTURE OF ENGINEERING MATERIALS AND STRUCTURES, Issue 9 2003W. V. MARS ABSTRACT Rubber components subjected to fluctuating loads often fail due to nucleation and the growth of defects or cracks. The prevention of such failures depends upon an understanding of the mechanics underlying the failure process. This investigation explores the nucleation and growth of cracks in filled natural rubber. Both fatigue macro-crack nucleation as well as fatigue crack growth experiments were conducted using simple tension and planar tension specimens, respectively. Crack nucleation as well as crack growth life prediction analysis approaches were used to correlate the experimental data. Several aspects of the fatigue process, such as failure mode and the effects of R ratio (minimum strain) on fatigue life, are also discussed. It is shown that a small positive R ratio can have a significant beneficial effect on fatigue life and crack growth rate, particularly at low strain range. [source] Molecular biology of aromatic plants and spices.FLAVOUR AND FRAGRANCE JOURNAL, Issue 5 2010A review. Abstract In recent years, molecular tools have been used to help to elucidate some aspects of genetic diversity in aromatic species, the genetic relationships between different cultivars and comparisons of molecular marker analysis to the chemical composition of plants. In this review, an explanation of the most important techniques involving molecular markers is given. A literature survey on molecular markers is presented, with some examples from aromatic plants and spices. However, understanding what controls flavour and aroma production in plants is not an easy task to accomplish. Several aspects of plant secondary metabolism, in particular volatiles production in aromatic plants, are still unknown. The route from genomics to proteomics is not well documented, although some research with model plants has already been performed. To address the question of the synthesis of volatiles, two different approaches are possible and summarized in this review: first, the biochemical and genetic approach; and second, approaches involving functional genomics. Finally, a brief survey of bioinformatics resources is presented. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] High-frequency transmission through metallic single-walled carbon nanotube interconnectsINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF NUMERICAL MODELLING: ELECTRONIC NETWORKS, DEVICES AND FIELDS, Issue 5 2009M. S. Tahvili Abstract In this paper, high-frequency transmission behavior of metallic single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) interconnects is investigated. The SWCNT is assumed to be lying over a doped Si substrate, in a transmission line configuration. A hybrid approach, combining quantum theory with classical distributed-element model is utilized to predict dynamical performance of the metallic SWCNT as a nano transmission line. Several aspects of high-frequency performance of such interconnect, including the effect of SWCNT length and substrate doping level, is studied. A novel modification is proposed to take damping mechanisms effect caused by the imperfect conductance of substrate into account. The results show that the impact of limited conductivity of the substrate determines the dynamical behavior of short SWCNTs; whereas in case of long nanotubes, damping effects that arise from scattering mechanisms are dominant. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Do Satisfied Employees Satisfy Customers?JOURNAL OF APPLIED SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY, Issue 8 2001Parents, Satisfaction Among Public School Administrators, Students, Support-Services Staff Morale Data were obtained from school staff (N= 1,567) who provided support services to schools in a major metropolitan school district. These data were analyzed in relation to data obtained from 3 customer groups (school administrators, students, and parents) who provided ratings of their satisfaction with services. Several aspects of employee morale (e. g., quality of supervision, teamwork, and goal clarity, along with workgroup service climate) were significantly and positively related to administrator and parent satisfaction, but not to student satisfaction. Relations of employee morale and workgroup service climate to administrator satisfaction and parent satisfaction were moderated by customer contact with employees. Results are discussed in relation to expectations of customers and employees that affect the nature of the service-exchange interaction. [source] Acute Activation of Hippocampal Glucocorticoid Receptors Results in Different Waves of Gene Expression Throughout TimeJOURNAL OF NEUROENDOCRINOLOGY, Issue 4 2006M. C. Morsink Abstract Several aspects of hippocampal cell function are influenced by adrenal-secreted glucocorticoids in a delayed, genomic fashion. Previously, we used Serial Analysis of Gene Expression to identify glucocorticoid receptor (GR)-induced transcriptional changes in the hippocampus at a fixed time point. However, because changes in mRNA levels are transient and most likely precede the effects on hippocampal cell function, the aim of the current study was to assess the transcriptional changes in a broader time window by generating a time curve of GR-mediated gene expression changes. Therefore, we used rat hippocampal slices obtained from adrenalectomised rats, substituted in vivo with low corticosterone pellets, predominantly occupying the hippocampal mineralocorticoid receptors. To activate GR, slices were treated in vitro with a high (100 nM) dose of corticosterone and gene expression was profiled 1, 3 and 5 h after GR-activation. Using Affymetrix GeneChips, a striking pattern with different waves of gene expression was observed, shifting from exclusively down-regulated genes 1 h after GR-activation to both up and down regulated genes 3 h after GR-activation. After 5 h, the response was almost back to baseline. Additionally, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used for validation of a selection of responsive genes including genes involved in neurotransmission and synaptic plasticity such as the corticotropin releasing hormone receptor 1, monoamine oxidase A, LIMK1 and calmodulin 2. This permitted confirmation of GR-responsiveness of 15 out of 18 selected genes. In conclusion, direct activation of GR in hippocampal slices results in transient changes in gene expression. The pattern in which gene expression was modulated suggests that the fast genomic effects of glucocorticoids may be realised via transrepression, preceding a later wave of transactivation. Furthermore, we identified a number of interesting candidate genes which may underlie the glucocorticoid-mediated effects on hippocampal cell function. [source] An ongoing process of inner negotiation , a Grounded Theory study of self-management among people living with chronic illnessJOURNAL OF NURSING AND HEALTHCARE OF CHRONIC ILLNE SS: AN INTERNATIONAL INTERDISCIPLINARY JOURNAL, Issue 4 2009Åsa Audulv RN Aim., The aim of this study was to better understand the main concern of self-management processes among people with chronic illness. Background., One aspect of living with chronic illness is self-management that can reduce the illness impact on daily life and promote future health. Although factors that influence self-management have been identified in previous research, little attention has been brought to the process of making self-management decisions. In clinical settings, use of a theory could facilitate patient-empowering approaches. Method., The data collection for this Grounded Theory was mostly conducted in 2006. Data were collected by interviews with 26 adults with a variety of chronic illnesses, including rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes mellitus, inflammatory bowel syndrome, multiple sclerosis, ischaemic heart disease and chronic kidney failure. Results., Individuals are conflicted by competing preferences when taking decisions about self-management. Consequently, the decision-making process can be understood as an ongoing inner negotiation between different incompatible perspectives, e.g. social needs vs. medical needs. The process of negotiating self-management starts with the individual's considering beliefs about health and illness, which make the individual face illness threats and the need for self-management. Several aspects influence negotiating self-management namely, assessing effects of self-management; evaluating own capacity; perceiving normality or stigmatisation; and experiencing support and external resources. The process has been demonstrated in a model. Conclusions., The process of negotiating self-management is an ongoing inner debate rather than a one-time decision. This opens up new ways of understanding, and communicating with, patients. The described model also links behavioural theories and research findings in a comprehensive understanding. Relevance to clinical practice., This model could be applicable as a communication tool for health-care providers in identifying barriers to, and resources in, self-management behaviour among individuals with chronic illness. [source] Octanol Modulation of Neuronal Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Single ChannelsALCOHOLISM, Issue 11 2004Yi Zuo Background: We have previously shown that alcohols exert a dual action on neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (AChRs), with short-chain alcohols potentiating and long-chain alcohols inhibiting acetylcholine (ACh)-induced whole-cell currents. At the single-channel level, ethanol increased the channel open probability and prolonged the channel open time and burst duration. In this study, we examined the detailed mechanism of the inhibitory action of the long-chain alcohol n -octanol on the neuronal nicotinic AChR. Methods: Single-channel currents induced by application of 30 nm ACh were recorded with the patch-clamp technique from human embryonic kidney cells stably expressing the human ,4,2 AChR. Results: Several single-channel parameters were markedly changed by octanol. At least two conductance-state currents were induced by low concentrations of ACh, and octanol increased the proportion of the low-conductance-state current relative to the high-conductance-state current without changing the current amplitude. Major analyses of temporal properties of single-channel currents were performed on the high-conductance-state currents. Octanol decreased the burst duration and duration of openings within burst and prolonged the mean closed time. All of these changes contributed to the decrease in the open probability in a concentration-dependent manner. Conclusions: Several aspects of octanol action on neuronal AChRs at the single-channel level are compatible with an atypical open channel block model reported with muscle nicotinic AChRs. The potentiating action of short-chain alcohols and the inhibitory action of long-chain alcohols on the neuronal nicotinic AChR are mediated through different mechanisms. [source] Travel and Sexually Transmitted InfectionsJOURNAL OF TRAVEL MEDICINE, Issue 5 2006Brian J. Ward MDCM Increasing population mobility and increasing frequency and variety of sexually transmitted infections (STI) are closely linked around the globe. Although all mobile populations are at increased risk for acquiring STIs, international travelers are the focus of this review. Several aspects of travel such as opportunity, isolation, and the desire for unique experiences all enhance the likelihood of casual sexual experiences while abroad. The situational loss of inhibition of travel can be markedly enhanced by alcohol and drugs. Several of the most important elements of the complex interaction between travel and STIs are discussed. [source] Host specificity, phenotype matching and the evolution of reproductive isolation in a coevolved plant,pollinator mutualismMOLECULAR ECOLOGY, Issue 24 2009ANNA G. HIMLER Coevolutionary interactions between plants and their associated pollinators and seed dispersers are thought to have promoted the diversification of flowering plants (Raven 1977; Regal 1977; Stebbins 1981). The actual mechanisms by which pollinators could drive species diversification in plants are not fully understood. However, it is thought that pollinator host specialization can influence the evolution of reproductive isolation among plant populations because the pollinator's choice of host is what determines patterns of gene flow in its host plant, and host choice may also have important consequences on pollinator and host fitness (Grant 1949; Bawa 1992). In this issue of Molecular Ecology, Smith et al. (2009) present a very interesting study that addresses how host specialization affects pollinator fitness and patterns of gene flow in a plant host. Several aspects of this study match elements of a seminal mathematical model of plant,pollinator codivergence (Kiester et al. 1984) suggesting that reciprocal selection for matched plant and pollinator reproductive traits may lead to speciation in the host and its pollinator when there is strong host specialization and a pattern of geographic subdivision. Smith et al.'s study represents an important step to fill the gap in our understanding of how reciprocal selection may lead to speciation in coevolved plant,pollinator mutualisms. [source] Missing link in firefly bioluminescence revealed: NO regulation of photocyte respirationBIOESSAYS, Issue 11 2001Michael D. Greenfield Sexual communication in most species of fireflies is a male,female dialogue of precisely timed flashes of bioluminescent light. The biochemical reactions underlying firefly bioluminescence have been known for 30 years and are now exploited in biomedical assays and other commercial applications. Several aspects of flash regulation are also understood: flash rhythm is controlled by a central pattern generator, and individual flashes are neurally triggered, with octopamine serving as the transmitter. The molecular oxygen needed by the biochemical reactants is delivered by a network of tracheal arborizations extending throughout the light organ (lantern). However, the actual means by which oxygen quickly reaches the reactants packaged within specialized photocytes and the specific event(s) triggered by neural action have not been identified; termination of axons away from the photocytes has exacerbated the latter problem. A recent paper(1) by a consortium of cell and evolutionary biologists, however, reports that nitric oxide (NO), manufactured and released in response to neuronal discharge, is the missing link by which neural action in the firefly lantern yields a sudden flash of light. BioEssays 23:992,995, 2001. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. [source] An empirical analysis of green supply chain management in the German automotive industryBUSINESS STRATEGY AND THE ENVIRONMENT, Issue 2 2010Jörn-Henrik Thun Abstract The purpose of this paper is the empirical investigation of the status quo of green supply chain management in the German automotive industry from a practitioner's point of view. Several aspects of green supply chain management, such as the point of time of implementation, the driving forces, the relevance of intended goals and their particular realization and the adoption of eco-programs with suppliers and customers as well as internal and external barriers are analyzed. Furthermore, the link to different performance criteria is tested by inductive statistics in order to show the potential of green supply chain management for competitiveness. For this study, managers from the automotive supply industry in Germany were asked about their estimations in this regard. The main conclusion is that managers express the need for green supply chain management on the one hand but also see corresponding problems in terms of required resources on the other hand. Furthermore, the analyses show that green supply chain management leads to higher performance in terms of several performance criteria. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment. [source] Collaborative energy partnerships in relation to development of core business focus and competence , a study of Swedish pulp and paper companies and energy service companiesBUSINESS STRATEGY AND THE ENVIRONMENT, Issue 2 2004Kenneth Möllersten Several aspects of the growing market for energy-related collaboration between pulp and paper industries (PPIs) and energy service companies (ESCOs) in Sweden were investigated through in-depth interviews with PPI and ESCO managers. Aspects of concern are the different forms of co-operation established, the managers' views on the recent changes made regarding competence and business focus, the managers' views on the opportunities and risks with energy related co-operation and the implications for sustainable industrial energy management. The study shows that there is a mutual belief among PPI and ESCO managers that co-operation can provide opportunities for improved competitiveness through a more rational distribution of competences between companies. The main two barriers against the utilization of this potential are that ESCOs must prove that they can bring added values other than capital to pulp and paper mills, and the lack of competition between external energy service providers. Furthermore, we argue that adding aspects related to competence and inter-firm partnering can improve the existing theory surrounding barriers and opportunities for sustainable industrial energy management in manufacturing industries. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment. [source] Improvements to resampling measures of group supportCLADISTICS, Issue 4 2003Pablo A Goloboff Several aspects of current resampling methods to assess group support are reviewed. When the characters have different prior weights or some state transformation costs are different, the frequencies under either bootstrapping or jackknifing can be distorted, producing either under- or overestimations of the actual group support. This is avoided by symmetric resampling, where the probability p of increasing the weight of a character equals the probability of decreasing it. Problems with interpreting absolute group frequencies as a measure of the support are discussed; group support does not necessarily vary with the frequency itself, since in some cases groups with positive support may have much lower frequencies than groups with no support at all. Three possible solutions for this problem are suggested. The first is measuring the support as the difference in frequency between the group and its most frequent contradictory group. The second is calculating frequencies for values of p below the threshold under which the frequency ranks the groups in the right order of support (this threshold may vary from data set to data set). The third is estimating the support by using the slope of the frequency as a function of different (low) values of p; when p is low, groups with actual support have negative slopes (closer to 0 when the support is higher), and groups with no support have positive slopes (larger when evidence for and against the group is more abundant). [source] On intimacy, sexual activities and exposure to sexual abuse among children and adolescents with mobility impairmentACTA PAEDIATRICA, Issue 5 2008L Jemtå Abstract Aim: The aim was to describe experiences of intimacy and sexual activity and exposure to sexual abuse among children and adolescents with mobility impairment, and to relate these experiences to socio-demographic data, disability characteristics and well-being. Methods: This study included semi-structured interviews with 141 children and adolescents aged 7,18 years with mobility impairment. Interpersonal experiences of intimacy and sexuality, socio-demographic data, disability characteristics and well-being were registered. Results: About half of the children and adolescents in the study had been in a boy- or a girlfriend relationship, and about a fifth had an ongoing relationship. Of the adolescents, 15% had at least one experience of a sexual relationship. Whereas no particular sexual dysfunction was reported, 15% had concerns about their future sexual activities, presumably related to mobility impairment. A history of sexual abuse was reported by 7% in the age cohort of 13,18 years. The socio-demographic and disability-related features had a marginal influence on the experiences of intimacy and sexual activities. Conclusion: Several aspects of sexual health are not fully realized for children and adolescents with impaired mobility, and there is a need for specialized sexual health care services to protect the sexual rights of this group. [source] Clinical practice of obtaining blood cultures from patients with a central venous catheter in place: an international surveyCLINICAL MICROBIOLOGY AND INFECTION, Issue 7 2009M. E. Falagas Abstract Several aspects of the procedure for obtaining blood cultures are rather controversial. An international survey among 386 experts was performed to investigate the clinical practice of obtaining blood cultures from patients with a central venous catheter (CVC). Among respondents, 64.5% obtain one set of blood cultures from the CVC and one set from the peripheral vein (PV). Other participants answered ,two sets from PV', ,two sets from CVC', ,one from PV', ,one from CVC' and ,other' (9.1%, 4.1%, 8.3%, 7%, and 7%, respectively). Clinicians who, according to the survey, demonstrated that they know the diagnostic performance characteristics of cultures more often obtain one culture from the CVC and one from the PV (73.9% vs. 61.7%, p 0.037). [source] Erythropoiesis and red cell function in vertebrate embryosEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF CLINICAL INVESTIGATION, Issue 2005R. Baumann Abstract All vertebrate embryos produce a specific erythroid cell population , primitive erythrocytes , early in development. These cells are characterized by expression of the specific embryonic haemoglobins. Many aspects of primitive erythropoiesis and the physiological function of primitive red cells are still enigmatic. Nevertheless, recent years have seen intensive efforts to characterize in greater detail the molecular events underlying the initiation of erythropoiesis in vertebrate embryos. Several key genes have been identified that are necessary for primitive and the subsequent definitive erythropoiesis, which differs in several aspect from primitive erythropoiesis. This review gives in its first part a short overview dealing with comparative aspects of primitive and early definitive erythropoiesis in higher and lower vertebrates and in the second part we discuss the physiological function of primitive red cells based mainly on results from mammalian and avian embryos. [source] Assessing cytotoxicity of (iron oxide-based) nanoparticles: an overview of different methods exemplified with cationic magnetoliposomesCONTRAST MEDIA & MOLECULAR IMAGING, Issue 5 2009Stefaan J. H. Soenen Abstract Iron oxide nanoparticles are the most widely used T2/T2* contrast agents and for biomedical research purposes, one of the main applications is the in vitro labeling of stem or therapeutic cells, allowing them to be subsequently tracked in vivo upon transplantation. To allow this, the nanoparticles used should not show any sign of cytotoxicity and not affect cellular physiology as this could impede normal cell functionality in vivo or lead to undesired side-effects. Assessing the biocompatibility of the nanoparticles has proven to be quite a difficult task. In the present work, a small overview of commonly used assays is presented in order to assess several aspects, such as cell viability, induction of reactive oxygen species, nanoparticle uptake, cellular morphology, cellular proliferation, actin cytoskeleton architecture and differentiation of stem cells. The main focus is on comparing the advantages and disadvantages of the different assays, highlighting several common problems and presenting possible solutions to these problems as well as pointing out the high importance of the relationship between intracellular nanoparticle concentration and cytotoxicity. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] What is problem solving?CRIMINAL BEHAVIOUR AND MENTAL HEALTH, Issue 4 2001A review of theory, applications, research Introduction Structured training or therapy programmes designed to develop cognitive problem-solving skills are now widely used in criminal justice and mental health settings. Method This paper describes the conceptual origins and theoretical models on which such programmes are based, and provides a historical overview of their development. Theoretical formulations of problem-solving deficits have also been used to inform the design of intervention programmes, and a number of studies and evaluations of such interventions are reviewed, with particular reference to criminal and other antisocial behaviour. Discussion In recent years there has been steadily growing supportive evidence for the benefits of this approach. However, there are also several aspects of its application that require further investigation, and some of the remaining questions are identified. Copyright © 2001 Whurr Publishers Ltd. [source] Immediate effects of methylphenidate on cognitive attention skills of children with attention-deficit-hyperactivity disorderDEVELOPMENTAL MEDICINE & CHILD NEUROLOGY, Issue 6 2005Jane Hood MSc This study investigated the immediate effects of stimulant medication (methylphenidate) on cognitive attention processes in children with attention-deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Thirteen males and two females (mean age 9y 5mo, SD 18.3mo) with a diagnosis of ADHD and who were to be prescribed methylphenidate were assessed twice on one day with the Test of Everyday Attention for Children, a neuropsychological battery designed to tap different aspects of cognitive attention. Between assessments, the children were administered methylphenidate (10mg). Each child had at least average intelligence (IQ 80 or over, as measured by the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children - III UK) and was on no other medication. A group of 16 children, who were matched for age, sex, and intelligence, also performed the cognitive tests twice on the same day to control for practice effects of testing. At the first assessment, children with ADHD demonstrated significant impairments in several aspects of cognitive attention in comparison with the control group, particularly sustained attention. After administration of methylphenidate for the children with ADHD, they showed significant improvements in their performance on measures of cognitive attention compared to controls. The immediate effects of methylphenidate and the significance of measuring cognitive aspects of attention as well as behavioural measures are discussed. [source] Coxsackievirus B4 and type 1 diabetes pathogenesis: contribution of animal modelsDIABETES/METABOLISM: RESEARCH AND REVIEWS, Issue 7 2009H. Jaïdane Abstract The role of enteroviruses, in particular type B coxsackieviruses (CV-B), in type 1 diabetes (T1D) pathogenesis is supported by epidemiological, clinical and experimental observations. The investigation of T1D pathogenesis benefits from the contribution of animal models called spontaneously diabetic. Among these animals the non-obese diabetic (NOD) mouse and the bio-breeding diabetes-prone (BBDP) rat present a genetic susceptibility manifested by the expression of an autoimmune diabetes similar to the pathology observed in human beings. Other models whose genetic predisposition is less known are of considerable contribution as well. Numerous major observations relative to several aspects of T1D pathogenesis in the context of CV-B infections, such as susceptibility, diabetogenicity, pancreatotropism, mechanisms of , cells destruction and others, have been deduced thanks to investigations with animal models. Despite their limits, these models are necessary in improving our knowledge of the role of enteroviruses, like CV-B4, in the pathogenesis of T1D, and the recent advances ensuing from their contribution may have important therapeutic and preventive spin-offs. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Cytopathology proficiency testing: Where do we go from here?,DIAGNOSTIC CYTOPATHOLOGY, Issue 4 2006George K. Nagy M.D. Abstract With the recent introduction of nationwide proficiency testing in cytopathology (PTC), reconsideration of several aspects of this controversial quality assurance method becomes justified. This paper discusses various merits and demerits of the PTC system currently prescribed by federal regulations, points out perceived deficiencies, and suggests methods for improvement. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2006;34:257,264. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] The geography of climate change: implications for conservation biogeographyDIVERSITY AND DISTRIBUTIONS, Issue 3 2010D. D. Ackerly Abstract Aim, Climate change poses significant threats to biodiversity, including impacts on species distributions, abundance and ecological interactions. At a landscape scale, these impacts, and biotic responses such as adaptation and migration, will be mediated by spatial heterogeneity in climate and climate change. We examine several aspects of the geography of climate change and their significance for biodiversity conservation. Location, California and Nevada, USA. Methods, Using current climate surfaces (PRISM) and two scenarios of future climate (A1b, 2070,2099, warmer-drier and warmer-wetter), we mapped disappearing, declining, expanding and novel climates, and the velocity and direction of climate change in California and Nevada. We also examined fine-scale spatial heterogeneity in protected areas of the San Francisco Bay Area in relation to reserve size, topographic complexity and distance from the ocean. Results, Under the two climate change scenarios, current climates across most of California and Nevada will shrink greatly in extent, and the climates of the highest peaks will disappear from this region. Expanding and novel climates are projected for the Central Valley. Current temperature isoclines are projected to move up to 4.9 km year,1 in flatter regions, but substantially slower in mountainous areas because of steep local topoclimate gradients. In the San Francisco Bay Area, climate diversity within currently protected areas increases with reserve size and proximity to the ocean (the latter because of strong coastal climate gradients). However, by 2100 of almost 500 protected areas (>100 ha), only eight of the largest are projected to experience temperatures within their currently observed range. Topoclimate variability will further increase the range of conditions experienced and needs to be incorporated in future analyses. Main Conclusions, Spatial heterogeneity in climate, from mesoclimate to topoclimate scales, represents an important spatial buffer in response to climate change, and merits increased attention in conservation planning. [source] The New Basel Capital Adequacy FrameworkECONOMIC NOTES, Issue 3 2001Giovanni Carosio The Basel Committee on Banking Supervision is about to publish a second consultative paper on the reform of the 1988 Accord on capital adequacy. The new document takes into account the comments received on the June 1999 consultative paper, gives a much clearer picture of crucial aspects of the reform that were only presented in very general terms in the earlier paper, and quantifies most of the parameters that will be needed to calculate the capital requirements. Although considerable progress has been made towards reaching operational status, several aspects of the regulation still need to be worked out and further reflection is needed on the best way to tackle some of the more problematic issues that have been identified. Comments, suggestions, criticisms such as today's seminar will certainly provide, are therefore most welcome. There will be time to take them into consideration, as the final draft of the regulation will not be completed before the end of 2001. My presentation is divided into three parts: I first illustrate the objectives of the reform, then describe the essential features of the new regulation, and finally discuss the possible impacts of its implementation. (J.E.L. G21, G28). [source] Performance of a full-scale biotrickling filter treating H2S at a gas contact time of 1.6 to 2.2 secondsENVIRONMENTAL PROGRESS & SUSTAINABLE ENERGY, Issue 2 2003David Gabriel Emission of objectionable odors is a major problem for wastewater treatment and other processing facilities. Biological treatment is a promising alternative to conventional control methods, such as chemical scrubbing, but historically, biotreatment has always required significantly larger reactor volumes than chemical scrubbers. In this paper, we present several aspects of the operation and performance of a chemical scrubber, retrofitted to operate as a biotrickling filter treating 16,000 m3 h,1 of foul air with the original gas contact time of 1.6 to 2.2 seconds. In continuous operation for more than a year, the biotrickling filter has shown stable performance and robust behavior for H2S treatment, with pollutant removal performance comparable to using a chemical scrubber. Reclaimed water was used as a nutrient source for the process, and to maintain the pH in the biotrickling filter between 1.5 and 2.2. At a gas contact time of 1.6 seconds, H2S removal was in excess of 95% for sustained inlet H2S concentrations as high as 30 ppmv. This corresponds to volumetric elimination rates of 95 to 105 g H2S m,3 h,1. Efficiencies of about 90% were observed under transient conditions at 2.2 seconds gas contact time for inlet concentration peaks up to 60 ppmv. The biotrickling filter also removed significant amounts of reduced sulfur compounds, ammonia, and volatile organic compounds present in traces in the air, which is important in practical applications. Selected experiments, such as intermittent trickling operation and a one-month operation period at neutral pH, are also presented. Results indicate that the intermittent trickling operation does not have a significant effect on H2S removal. However, when operated at neutral pH, biotrickling filter performance clearly decreased, probably due to an excessive chlorine supply to the reactor through the make-up water. The study demonstrates that biotrickling filters can replace chemical scrubbers as a safer, more economical technique for odor control. [source] Human Th17 cells: Are they different from murine Th17 cells?EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY, Issue 3 2009Francesco Annunziato Abstract Type 17 Th (Th17) cells have been identified as a distinct population of CD4+ effector T cells different from Th1 and Th2 cells. While the pre-eminent cytokine of Th1 cells is IFN-, and that of Th2 cells is IL-4, the distinctive cytokine of Th17 cells is IL-17A. However, although murine and human Th1 and Th2 cells exhibit strong similarities, human and murine Th17 cells seem to differ in several aspects. [source] TAIL SHEDDING IN ISLAND LIZARDS [LACERTIDAE, REPTILIA]: DECLINE OF ANTIPREDATOR DEFENSES IN RELAXED PREDATION ENVIRONMENTSEVOLUTION, Issue 5 2009Panayiotis Pafilis The ability of an animal to shed its tail is a widespread antipredator strategy among lizards. The degree of expression of this defense is expected to be shaped by prevailing environmental conditions including local predation pressure. We test these hypotheses by comparing several aspects of caudal autotomy in 15 Mediterranean lizard taxa existing across a swath of mainland and island localities that differ in the number and identity of predator species present. Autotomic ease varied substantially among the study populations, in a pattern that is best explained by the presence of vipers. Neither insularity nor the presence of other types of predators explain the observed autotomy rates. Final concentration of accumulated tail muscle lactate and duration of movement of a shed tail, two traits that were previously thought to relate to predation pressure, are in general not shaped by either predator diversity or insularity. Under conditions of relaxed predation selection, an uncoupling of different aspects of caudal autotomy exists, with some elements (ease of autotomy) declining faster than others (duration of movement, lactate concentration). We compared rates of shed tails in the field against rates of laboratory autotomies conducted under standardized conditions and found very high correlation values (r > 0.96). This suggests that field autotomy rates, rather than being a metric of predatory attacks, merely reflect the innate predisposition of a taxon to shed its tail. [source] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||