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Specific Aspects (specific + aspect)
Selected AbstractsIntraoperative Transesophageal Echocardiography in Valve Replacement SurgeryECHOCARDIOGRAPHY, Issue 8 2002Raphael Rosenhek M.D. Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is applied widely during heart valve replacement surgery. Intraoperative TEE (IOTEE) is used to formulate the surgical plan, assess cardiac function, and evaluate surgical outcome. This review describes the methodology of IOTEE, focusing on its role in valve replacement surgery. Specific aspects, such as its role in surgical decision making, selection of the prosthetic model and size, detection and quantification of paravalvular leaks, outflow tract obstruction, and acute prosthetic valve obstruction, are discussed. Furthermore, a description of the value of IOTEE in newer procedures, such as port access surgery, is presented. [source] Specific aspects on crack advance during J -test method for structural materials at cryogenic temperaturesFATIGUE & FRACTURE OF ENGINEERING MATERIALS AND STRUCTURES, Issue 2 2006K. WEISS ABSTRACT Cryogenic elastic plastic, J -integral investigations on metallic materials often show negative crack extension values with respect to resistance curve J - R. According to the present ASTM standard, the use of unloading compliance technique relies on the estimation procedure of the crack lengths during the unloading sequences of the test. The current standard, however, does not give any specific procedure for treating such negative data. To date, the applied procedure uses the shifting of the negative crack extension values either to the onset of the blunting line or to the offset of the resistance curve. The present paper represents a solution of the negative crack length problem on the basis of a mechanical evaluation procedure of the unloading slopes. The achieved progress using this evaluation technique is demonstrated on different materials such as cryogenic high toughness stainless steels, low carbon ferritic steel and aluminum alloys from the series of 7000 and 5000. In addition, this work deals with the crack tunnelling phenomenon, observed for high toughness materials, and shows the reduction of this crack extension appearance by using electro discharge machining (EDM) side groove technique. The differences between EDM processed side grooves and standard V-notch machining have been investigated within these test series. [source] Medical students' perceptions of their educational environment: expected versus actual perceptionsMEDICAL EDUCATION, Issue 3 2007Susan Miles Objective, To compare Year 1 medical students' perceptions of their educational environment at the end of Year 1, with their expectations at the beginning of the year using the Dundee Ready Education Environment Measure (DREEM). Methods, Year 1 students (n = 130) at the University of East Anglia Medical School were asked to complete the DREEM during their induction week at the beginning of Year 1, thinking about the educational environment they expected to encounter (Expected DREEM), and again as part of a compulsory evaluation at the end of Year 1, thinking about the educational environment they had actually experienced (Actual DREEM). A total of 87 students (66.92% of the starting cohort) completed the DREEM on both occasions and gave permission for their data to be published. Results, The Expected DREEM score was 153 out of a maximum of 200, and the Actual DREEM score was 143. Student's expected perceptions of learning and teachers, and their expected academic self- and social self-perceptions were all more positive than their actual perceptions. There was no difference between expected and actual perceptions of atmosphere. Specific aspects of the educational environment showing dissonance were identified. In some areas students' low expectations had been matched by their actual experience. Conclusions, Medical students had started Year 1 with expectations about the educational environment that had not been met. However, areas showing dissonance received low item scores on the Actual DREEM and as such would be picked up for remediation, even without information about student expectations. [source] Age-Specific Differences in Women with Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators: An International Multi Center StudyPACING AND CLINICAL ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY, Issue 12 2008LAUREN D. VAZQUEZ M.S. Background: Common psychological adjustment difficulties have been identified for groups of implantable cardioverter defibrillator patients, such as those who are young (<50 years old), have been shocked, and are female. Specific aspects and concerns, such as fears of death or shock and body image concerns, that increase the chance of distress, have not been examined in different aged female implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) recipients. The aim of the study was to investigate these areas of adjustment across three age groups of women from multiple centers. Methods: Eighty-eight female ICD patients were recruited at three medical centers: Shands Hospital at the University of Florida, Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, and Royal North Shore Hospital in Sydney, Australia. Women completed individual psychological assessment batteries, measuring the constructs of shock anxiety, death anxiety, and body image concerns. Medical record review was conducted for all patients regarding cardiac illnesses and ICD-specific data. Results: Multivariate and univariate analyses of variance revealed that younger women reported significantly higher rates of shock and death anxiety (Pillai's F = 3.053, P = 0.018, ,2p= 0.067) and significantly greater body image concerns (Pillai's F = 4.198, P = 0.018, ,2p= 0.090) than middle- and older-aged women. Conclusions: Women under the age of 50 appear to be at greater risk for the development of psychosocial distress associated with shock anxiety, death anxiety, and body image. Clinical-based strategies and interventions targeting these types of adjustment difficulties in younger women may allow for improved psychosocial and quality of life outcomes. [source] Outcomes research in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: Lessons learned from the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis clinical assessment, research, and education database,ANNALS OF NEUROLOGY, Issue S1 2009FAAN, Robert G. Miller MD Objective To examine the care of patients with ALS following the publication of the standardized recommendations for the management of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) published in 1999 by the American Academy of Neurology. Methods Specific aspects of ALS patient management have been evaluated serially using a national Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Clinical Assessment, Research, and Education (ALS CARE) database to encourage compliance with these recommendations and to assure continuing quality improvement. Results The most recent analysis of 5,600 patients shows interesting epidemiological observations and treatment trends. Proper management of many ALS symptoms has increased substantially since the first publication of the guidelines, and awareness of pseudobulbar affect has increased. Other recommendations are underutilized: Only 9% undergo percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy, although this procedure was recommended in 22% of patients; and noninvasive positive pressure ventilation was used by only 21% of patients despite being associated with improved 5-year survival rates. Interpretation This observational database has been a useful tool in monitoring compliance with the standard of care for patients with ALS and may have resulted in greater adherence to guidelines. Ann Neurol 2009;65 (suppl):S24,S28 [source] 1332: Fluorescein angiography: first step for macular degeneration diagnosisACTA OPHTHALMOLOGICA, Issue 2010G SOUBRANE Purpose To recall that fluorescein angiography (FA) is not only the basis of our knowledge but also mandatory to improve our understanding. Methods Macular disciform lesions have been described and drawed since about 150 years. It is only in 1977 with the advent of fluorescein that the connection with choroidal new vessels (CNV) was performed. The identification of drusen as precursors of CNV was the following stage. With time a number of precursors and clinical forms of macular degeneration were described. Results Currently, the precursors (Age-Related Maculopathy) are distinguished from the neovasdcular or atrophic complications (Age-Related Macular Degeneration). The precursors presenting an early hyperfuorescence can be either hard drusen or RPE atrophy distinguished from each other on the late phase of FA. The late hyperfluorescence of soft drusen particularly when confluent requires a careful analysis of the complete FA sequence to ensure the diagnosis. The neovascular stage presents mainly as sub epithelial occult lesions of which the other types develop that display different angiographic behaviours. Specific aspects have been described gradually based on their FA features. The atrophic stage of the disease seems to behave in a stereotyped way but sub goups are presently identified. Conclusion The fluorescein features of the different component of AMD remain the reference for all other more recent imaging technics and helps to understand and differentiate the various aspects of the disease. [source] The threat of corporate groups and the insolvency connectionINTERNATIONAL INSOLVENCY REVIEW, Issue 3 2009Alexander Dähnert, Article first published online: 27 OCT 200 This paper attempts to shed some light on the issue referred to by the term ,group threat'. The factual appearance of corporate groups will be emphasized, as well as the question of what particular dangers arise from groups of legal entities. It will be argued that the source of group threats lies in the supremacy of group interest over the interests of affiliates, particularly in groups acting as a single unit. However, while efficiency gains inherent in group structures have attracted considerable attention in the debate about the insolvencies of corporate groups, the aspect of how the restriction of group threats can be reconciled with these efficiency-preservation concepts has been neglected. This appears of some concern given the fact that group threats and group synergy effects are part of the same coin. Both sides of the Janus-head ought to be considered in insolvency concepts and an attempt will be made to put the specific aspect of group threats into the wider context of group insolvencies. Existing approaches will be introduced, summarized and categorized, with a particular view taken of their common characteristics. It is argued that most insolvency concepts suffer from the same fundamental deficiencies: the focus on the structure of groups, which makes the very nature of integrated companies difficult to grasp. Consequently, this calls into question the application of these concepts and leads, furthermore, to significant collateral damage in the shape of principles central to company law. Resulting from these shortcomings and from the insight that the supremacy of the group interest constitutes the fundamental source of group characteristics, this paper suggests as an alternative that the focus be placed on wrongful conduct, the argument being that it is not the static structure, but the way the group is directed and ruled, which constitutes the decisive criterion for insolvency concepts. The understanding of group threats is therefore the key to a satisfactory approach to group specific challenges in insolvency. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Promoting acute thrombolysis for ischaemic stroke (PRACTISE)INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF STROKE, Issue 2 2007Protocol for a cluster randomised controlled trial to assess the effect of implementation strategies on the rate, effects of thrombolysis for acute ischaemic stroke (ISRCTN 20405426) Rationale Thrombolysis with intravenous rtPA is an effective treatment for patients with ischaemic stroke if given within 3 h from onset. Generally, more than 20% of stroke patients arrive in time to be treated with thrombolysis. Nevertheless, in most hospitals, only 1,8% of all stroke patients are actually treated. Interorganisational, intraorganisational, medical and psychological barriers are hampering broad implementation of thrombolysis for acute ischaemic stroke. Aims To evaluate the effect of a high-intensity implementation strategy for intravenous thrombolysis in acute ischaemic stroke, compared with regular implementation; to identify success factors and obstacles for implementation and to assess its cost-effectiveness, taking into account the costs of implementation. Design The PRACTISE study is a national cluster-randomised-controlled trial. Twelve hospitals have been assigned to the regular or high-intensity intervention by random allocation after pair-wise matching. The high-intensity implementation consists of training sessions in conformity with the Breakthrough model, and a tool kit. All patients who are admitted with acute stroke and onset of symptoms not longer than 24 h are registered. Study outcomes The primary outcome measure is treatment with thrombolysis. Secondary outcomes are admission within 4 h after onset of symptoms, death or disability at 3 months, the rate of haemorrhagic complications in patients treated with thrombolysis, and costs of implementation and stroke care in the acute setting. Tertiary outcomes are derived from detailed criteria for the organisational characteristics, such as door-to-needle time and protocol violations. These can be used to monitor the implementation process and study the effectiveness of specific interventions. Discussion This study will provide important information on the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of actively implementing an established treatment for acute ischaemic stroke. The multifaceted aspect of the intervention will make it difficult to attribute a difference in the primary outcome measure to a specific aspect of the intervention. However, careful monitoring of intermediate parameters as well as monitoring of accomplished SMART tasks can be expected to provide useful insights into the nature and role of factors associated with implementation of thrombolysis for acute ischaemic stroke, and of effective acute interventions in general. [source] Patients' evaluations of the quality of care: influencing factors and the importance of engagementJOURNAL OF ADVANCED NURSING, Issue 5 2005Sophie H. Staniszewska BSc DPhil Aims., This paper reports a study exploring the process of patient evaluation and identifying the factors which influence this. Background., Patient experiences of health care have become a central focus for researchers, policymakers, clinicians and patient groups in many countries. While surveys of patient experiences have become increasingly common internationally, concerns about the validity of concepts such as satisfaction have cast doubt on the utility of their findings. These concerns reflect our limited understanding of patient evaluation and the factors that can influence this process. Methods., A qualitative design was adopted, using semi-structured interviews with a sample of outpatients in their homes in one county in England. In total, 41 patients participated in the study and were interviewed before their appointment. Of these patients, 37 were interviewed again after their appointment. Six of the latter were then re-interviewed 6 weeks after the appointment to explore whether evaluations had changed. Findings., Patient evaluation was influenced by a number of factors, including gratitude, faith, loyalty, luck and equity. The overall effect was to prompt positive evaluation, even when care was poor. These factors should be accounted for in the interpretation of patient experiences surveys. Patient experiences were further influenced by their sense of engagement with the system. A negative sense of engagement could have a major impact on the patient, resulting in disappointment or fear and a desire to leave the health care system, and in a negative evaluation of a specific aspect of care. Conclusions., Engagement may provide a more appropriate indicator of negative experience than dissatisfaction. The influence of these factors should be considered in future attempts to develop more sensitive and appropriate methods of eliciting patient experiences. [source] Cultural competence: a conceptual framework for teaching and learningMEDICAL EDUCATION, Issue 3 2009Conny Seeleman Objectives, The need to address cultural and ethnic diversity issues in medical education as a means to improve the quality of care for all has been widely emphasised. Cultural competence has been suggested as an instrument with which to deal with diversity issues. However, the implementation of culturally competent curricula appears to be difficult. We believe the development of curricula would profit from a framework that provides a practical translation of abstract educational objectives and that is related to competencies underlying the medical curriculum in general. This paper proposes such a framework. Methods, The framework illustrates the following cultural competencies: knowledge of epidemiology and the differential effects of treatment in various ethnic groups; awareness of how culture shapes individual behaviour and thinking; awareness of the social context in which specific ethnic groups live; awareness of one's own prejudices and tendency to stereotype; ability to transfer information in a way the patient can understand and to use external help (e.g. interpreters) when needed, and ability to adapt to new situations flexibly and creatively. Discussion, The framework indicates important aspects in taking care of an ethnically diverse patient population. It shows that there are more dimensions to delivering high-quality care than merely the cultural. Most cultural competencies emphasise a specific aspect of a generic competency that is of extra importance when dealing with patients from different ethnic groups. We hope our framework contributes to the further development of cultural competency in medical curricula. [source] BUILDING A DATA-MINING GRID FOR MULTIPLE HUMAN BRAIN DATA ANALYSISCOMPUTATIONAL INTELLIGENCE, Issue 2 2005Ning Zhong E-science is about global collaboration in key areas of science such as cognitive science and brain science, and the next generation of infrastructure such as the Wisdom Web and Knowledge Grids. As a case study, we investigate human multiperception mechanism by cooperatively using various psychological experiments, physiological measurements, and data mining techniques for developing artificial systems which match human ability in specific aspects. In particular, we observe fMRI (functional magnetic resonance imaging) and EEG (electroencephalogram) brain activations from the viewpoint of peculiarity oriented mining and propose a way of peculiarity oriented mining for knowledge discovery in multiple human brain data. Based on such experience and needs, we concentrate on the architectural aspect of a brain-informatics portal from the perspective of the Wisdom Web and Knowledge Grids. We describe how to build a data-mining grid on the Wisdom Web for multiaspect human brain data analysis. The proposed methodology attempts to change the perspective of cognitive scientists from a single type of experimental data analysis toward a holistic view at a long-term, global field of vision. [source] Patient-Reported Outcomes with Botulinum Toxin Type A Treatment of Glabellar Rhytids: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled StudyDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 2007FACS, STEVEN FAGIEN MD BACKGROUND Global patient-reported outcomes do not evaluate specific aspects of treatment that are important to patients. OBJECTIVE The objective was to evaluate self-perception of age and specific outcomes that are important to patients receiving botulinum toxin type A or placebo for moderate to severe glabellar lines (using the Facial Line Outcomes Questionnaire to assess how much facial lines bother them, make them look older, detract from their facial appearance, prevent a smooth facial appearance, and make them look tired, stressed, or angry). METHODS AND MATERIALS In the double-blind phase of this 12-week study, 70 patients were randomly assigned to treatment with 20 U botulinum toxin type A (BOTOX Cosmetic) or placebo. At Week 4, those still with moderate or severe glabellar lines were offered open-label 20 U botulinum toxin type A. RESULTS Median glabellar line severity was significantly lower after botulinum toxin treatment than after placebo. Compared with placebo, botulinum toxin also resulted in significantly superior patient assessments and a greater proportion of patients considering they looked younger than their current age. CONCLUSIONS Botulinum toxin type A can achieve specific goals of treatment that are important to patients and help them feel that they look younger than their current age. [source] Cosmeceuticals Containing Herbs: Fact, Fiction, and FutureDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 2005Carl Thornfeldt MD Background. Modern medicine is rooted in ethnobotanical traditions using indigenous flora to treat symptoms of human diseases or to improve specific aspects of the body condition. Herbal medicine is now used by over half of the American population. Yet the American medical community generally lacks knowledge of the function, metabolism, interaction, adverse reactions, and preparation of herbal products. Objective. Because over 60 botanicals are marketed in cosmeceutical formulations, dermatologists need to obtain working knowledge of the major botanicals. The preparation, traditional uses, mechanisms of action, human clinical data, adverse reactions, and interactions all impact herbal efficacy and are discussed below. Method. English-language medical journal and symposium searches. Results. The most important botanicals pertaining to dermatologic uses, such as cosmeceuticals, include teas, soy, pomegranate, date, grape seed, Pycnogenol, horse chestnut, German chamomile, curcumin, comfrey, allantoin, and aloe. All are documented to treat dermatologic conditions. Only green and black tea, soy, pomegranate, and date have published clinical trials for the treatment of parameters of extrinsic aging. Conclusions. Preparation of botanical-based cosmeceuticals is complex. Very few of these products are supported by evidence-based science. CARL THORNFELDT, MD, FAAD, HAS INDICATED NO SIGNIFICANT INTEREST WITH COMMERCIAL SUPPORTERS. [source] Assessment of executive function in preschool-aged childrenDEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES RESEARCH REVIEW, Issue 3 2005Peter K. Isquith Abstract Assessment of the overarching self-regulatory mechanisms, or executive functions, in any age group is challenging, in part due to the complexity of this domain, in part due to their dynamic essence, and in part due to the inextricable links between these central processes and the associated domain-specific processes, such as language, motor function, and attention, over which they preside. While much progress has been made in clinical assessment approaches for measuring executive functions in adults and to some extent in adolescents and school-aged children, the toolkit for the preschool evaluator remains sparse. The past decade, however, has seen a substantial increase in attention to executive functions in very young children from a developmental neuropsychological perspective. With this has come a necessity for better, more specific, and more internally valid performance measures, many of which are now described in the experimental literature. Few such tasks, however, have adequately demonstrated psychometric properties for clinical application. We present two performance tasks designed to tap selective aspects of executive function in preschoolers that are emerging from the experimental laboratory and hold promise of appropriate reliability and validity for the clinical laboratory. Performance tests alone, however, are insufficient to develop a comprehensive picture of a child's executive functioning. Thus, we present a rating scale of preschoolers' executive function in the everyday context, and advocate a model of executive function assessment that incorporates both controlled performance tasks that target specific aspects of executive function and parent/teacher ratings that target more global aspects of self-regulation in the everyday context. © 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc. MRDD Research Reviews 2005;11:209,215. [source] Neurocognitive correlates of socioeconomic status in kindergarten childrenDEVELOPMENTAL SCIENCE, Issue 1 2005Kimberly G. Noble Socioeconomic status (SES) is strongly associated with cognitive ability and achievement during childhood and beyond. Little is known about the developmental relationships between SES and specific brain systems or their associated cognitive functions. In this study we assessed neurocognitive functioning of kindergarteners from different socioeconomic backgrounds, using tasks drawn from the cognitive neuroscience literature in order to determine how childhood SES predicts the normal variance in performance across different neurocognitive systems. Five neurocognitive systems were examined: the occipitotemporal/visual cognition system, the parietal/spatial cognition system, the medial temporal/memory system, the left perisylvian/language system, and the prefrontal/executive system. SES was disproportionately associated with the last two, with low SES children performing worse than middle SES children on most measures of these systems. Relations among language, executive function, SES and specific aspects of early childhood experience were explored, revealing intercorrelations and a seemingly predominant role of individual differences in language ability involved in SES associations with executive function. [source] Cold adaptation in the marine bacterium, Sphingopyxis alaskensis, assessed using quantitative proteomicsENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOLOGY, Issue 10 2010Lily Ting Summary The cold marine environment constitutes a large proportion of the Earth's biosphere. Sphingopyxis alaskensis was isolated as a numerically abundant bacterium from several cold marine locations, and has been extensively studied as a model marine bacterium. Recently, a metabolic labelling platform was developed to comprehensively identify and quantify proteins from S. alaskensis. The approach incorporated data normalization and statistical validation for the purpose of generating highly confident quantitative proteomics data. Using this approach, we determined quantitative differences between cells grown at 10°C (low temperature) and 30°C (high temperature). Cold adaptation was linked to specific aspects of gene expression: a dedicated protein-folding system using GroESL, DnaK, DnaJ, GrpE, SecB, ClpB and PPIase; polyhydroxyalkanoate-associated storage materials; a link between enzymes in fatty acid metabolism and energy generation; de novo synthesis of polyunsaturated fatty acids in the membrane and cell wall; inorganic phosphate ion transport by a phosphate import PstB homologue; TonB-dependent receptor and bacterioferritin in iron homeostasis; histidine, tryptophan and proline amino acid metabolism; and a large number of proteins without annotated functions. This study provides a new level of understanding on how important marine bacteria can adapt to compete effectively in cold marine environments. This study is also a benchmark for comparative proteomic analyses with other important marine bacteria and other cold-adapted organisms. [source] The maintenance of specific aspects of neuronal function and behavior is dependent on programmed cell death of adult-generated neurons in the dentate gyrusEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF NEUROSCIENCE, Issue 7 2009Woon Ryoung Kim Abstract A considerable number of new neurons are generated daily in the dentate gyrus (DG) of the adult hippocampus, but only a subset of these survive, as many adult-generated neurons undergo programmed cell death (PCD). However, the significance of PCD in the adult brain for the functionality of DG circuits is not known. Here, we examined the electrophysiological and behavioral characteristics of Bax -knockout (Bax -KO) mice in which PCD of post-mitotic neurons is prevented. The continuous increase in DG cell numbers in Bax -KO mice resulted in the readjustment of afferent and efferent synaptic connections, represented by age-dependent reductions in the dendritic arborization of DG neurons and in the synaptic contact ratio of mossy fibers with CA3 dendritic spines. These neuroanatomical changes were associated with reductions in synaptic transmission and reduced performance in a contextual fear memory task in 6-month-old Bax -KO mice. These results suggest that the elimination of excess DG neurons via Bax -dependent PCD in the adult brain is required for the normal organization and function of the hippocampus. [source] Genetic determinants of adult hippocampal neurogenesis correlate with acquisition, but not probe trial performance, in the water maze taskEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF NEUROSCIENCE, Issue 1 2002G. Kempermann Abstract A number of reports have indicated that adult neurogenesis might be involved in hippocampal function. While increases in adult neurogenesis are paralleled by improvements on learning tasks and learning itself can promote the survival of newly generated neurons in the hippocampus, a causal link between learning processes and adult hippocampal neurogenesis is difficult to prove. Here, we addressed the related question of whether the baseline level of adult neurogenesis is predictive of performance on the water maze task as a test of hippocampal function. We used ten strains of recombinant inbred mice, based on C57BL/6, which are good learners and show high baseline levels of neurogenesis, and DBA/2, which are known to be poor learners and which exhibit low levels of adult neurogenesis. Two of these strains, BXD-2 and BXD-8, showed a 26-fold difference in the number of newly generated neurons per hippocampus. Over all strains, including the parental strains, there was a significant correlation between the number of new neurons generated in the dentate gyrus and parameters describing the acquisition of the water maze task (slope of the learning curves). Similar results were seen when the parental strains were not included in the analysis. There was no correlation between adult hippocampal neurogenesis and probe trial performance, performance on the rotarod, overall locomotor activity, and baseline serum corticosterone levels. This result supports the hypothesis that adult neurogenesis is involved in specific aspects of hippocampal function, particularly the acquisition of new information. [source] Selective activation of the ventrolateral prefrontal cortex in the human brain during active retrieval processingEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF NEUROSCIENCE, Issue 7 2001Genevičve Cadoret Abstract The present study examined the role of the prefrontal cortex in retrieval processing using functional magnetic resonance imaging in human subjects. Ten healthy subjects were scanned while they performed a task that required retrieval of specific aspects of visual information. In order to examine brain activity specifically associated with retrieval, we designed a task that had retrieval and control conditions that were perfectly matched in terms of depth of encoding, decision making and postretrieval monitoring and differed only in terms of whether retrieval was required. In the retrieval condition, based on an instructional cue, the subjects had to retrieve either the particular stimulus that was previously presented or its location. In the control condition, the cue did not instruct retrieval but shared with the instructional cues the function of alerting the subjects of the impending test phase. The comparison of activity between the retrieval and control conditions demonstrated a significant and selective increase in activity related to retrieval processes within the ventrolateral prefrontal cortical region, more specifically within area 47/12. These activity increases were bilateral but stronger in the right hemisphere. The present study by strictly controlling the level of encoding, postretrieval monitoring, and decision making has demonstrated a specific increase in the ventrolateral prefrontal region that could be clearly related to active retrieval processing, i.e. the active selection of particular stored visual representations. [source] The Synthesis and Reactivity of Group 4 Zwitterionic Complexes of the Type Mt+CH2AlCl3,: One-Component Stereoselective Polymerization and Oligomerization Catalysts for Olefins and AcetylenesEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF ORGANIC CHEMISTRY, Issue 15 2004John J. Eisch Abstract A reinvestigation of the interaction of TiCl4 with 2 equiv. of Me3Al in toluene between ,78 °C and 25 °C over 24 h has now established that the ultimate black product obtained is an associated zwitterion of the type [Ti+,CH2,AlCl3,]n, supported by multinuclear NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometric and gasometric analyses of the gases evolved (CH4, H2) upon its protolysis. Chemical reactions of the zwitterion have corroborated specific aspects of its proposed structure: 1) its methylene character, by its transformation of benzophenone into 1,1-diphenylethylene; 2) its divalent titanium content, by the substantial reductive dimerization of benzophenone to tetraphenylethylene, and 3) its Lewis acidic Ti center, by its catalytic isomerization of trans -stilbene oxide to 1,1-diphenylacetaldehyde. Similar individual reactions of ZrCl4 or HfCl4 with Me3Al have led to the analogous zwitterions [Zr+,CH2,AlCl3,]n and [Hf+,CH2,AlCl3,]n, respectively. These zwitterions of Ti, Zr and Hf have been proven to be capable of the cyclotrimerization and/or polymerization of acetylenes with varying facility, as evidenced by their catalytic action on 1-hexyne, phenylacetylene, di- n -butylacetylene, and diphenylacetylene. Furthermore, all three zwitterions were able to polymerize ethylene, without any added cocatalyst, with an activity following the order Zr > Ti > Hf. The Ti and Zr zwitterions effected the stereoselective polymerization of propylene to yield 50% of isotactic polymer, and all three catalysts induced the polymerization of 1-hexene to yield 85% (Zr, Hf) or 100% (Ti) of isotactic polymer. These oligomerizations and stereoselective polymerizations of acetylenes and olefins can be rationalized through a model for the active site resembling a three-membered metallacyclopropa(e)nium ion intermediate formed from the attack of the Group 4 metal zwitterion on the unsaturated hydrocarbon. (© Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2004) [source] Gender differences in self-estimated intelligence and their relation to gender-role orientationEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF PERSONALITY, Issue 5 2002Beatrice Rammstedt Previous research has demonstrated that gender differences in self-estimated intelligence are domain specific: Males estimate their mathematical, logical and spatial abilities significantly higher than females. It has been frequently hypothesized that these differences are moderated by the individual's degree of gender-role orientation. However, studies investigating the effect of gender-role orientation on self-estimated intelligence revealed highly inconsistent results. In the present study, 267 participants estimated their own abilities in 11 intelligence domains and completed the Bem Sex Role Inventory (BSRI). Factor analysis of the 11 intelligence domains yielded four interpretable factors. Gender differences were identified for the mathematical,logical and the artistic intelligence factor. Additional analyses revealed a moderating effect of gender-role orientation on gender differences in factor scores. Thus, the present study provided direct evidence for the notion that in male, but not in female individuals, self-estimates of specific aspects of intelligence are markedly influenced by gender-role orientation. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Calcium and Fos Involvement in Brain-Derived Ca2+ -Binding Protein (S100)-Dependent Apoptosis in Rat Phaeochromocytoma CellsEXPERIMENTAL PHYSIOLOGY, Issue 3 2000Stefania Fulle Brain-derived calcium-binding protein S100 induces apoptosis in a significant fraction of rat phaeochromocytoma (PC12) cells. We used single cell techniques (patch clamp, videomicroscopy and immunocytochemistry) to clarify some of the specific aspects of S100-induced apoptosis, the modality(ies) of early intracellular Ca2+ concentration increase and the expression of some classes of genes (c-fos, c-jun, bax, bcl-x, p-15, p-21) known to be implicated in apoptosis of different cells. The results show that S100: (1) causes an increase of [Ca2+]i due to an increased conductance of L-type Ca2+ channels; (2) induces a sustained increase of the Fos levels which is evident since the first time point tested (3 h) and remains elevated until to the last time point (72 h). All these data suggest that S100-derived apoptosis in PC12 cells may be the consequence of a system involving an increase in L-type Ca2+ channel conductance with consequent [Ca2+]i increase which up-regulates, directly or indirectly, the expression of Fos. [source] Learner Accuracy and Learner Performance: The Quest for a LinkFOREIGN LANGUAGE ANNALS, Issue 2 2000Janet M. Renou Specifically, we examined learner performance in carrying out three steps of a written and oral grammatically judgment test. First, subjects' ability to identify and correct an error, and to provide the rule, which the correction entailed, was examined according to group membership (communicative or grammar), types of errors, and mode of presentation. In a second phase of the analysis, judgment ability was compared with specific aspects of L2 proficiency. Results show significant differences between the groups in their ability to provide the rule that the correction entailed. Furthermore, significant differences in judgment ability were found depending on whether the item was presented in the written or oral mode. Generally, little difference was found in levels of L2 proficiency between subjects who could correct the error and provide the rule in comparison with those who were only able to correct the error. [source] Transnational communities and business systemsGLOBAL NETWORKS, Issue 2 2001Glenn Morgan The paper examines the concept of ,transnational communities' as a way of understanding globalization practices in business and management. It argues that ,transnational communities' are emergent properties of the internationalizing of economic activity. Three specific aspects of this process are considered in detail: the development of multinational companies; the development of international regulatory bodies; and the development of cognitive and normative frameworks through the practices of business education, management consultancies and other global professional service firms. It is argued that in each case, transnational spaces are emerging; within these spaces, transnational communities are developing. The article calls for more research into the diverse nature of these spaces and communities as a way of avoiding the sterile polarities of what Held et al. (1999) refer to as the ,hyperglobalists' and the ,sceptics'. [source] Artificial Stem Cell Niches,ADVANCED MATERIALS, Issue 32-33 2009Matthias P. Lutolf Abstract Stem cells are characterized by their dual ability to reproduce themselves (self-renew) and specialize (differentiate), yielding a plethora of daughter cells that maintain and regenerate tissues. In contrast to their embryonic counterparts, adult stem cells retain their unique functions only if they are in intimate contact with an instructive microenvironment, termed stem cell niche. In these niches, stem cells integrate a complex array of molecular signals that, in concert with induced cell-intrinsic regulatory networks, control their function and balance their numbers in response to physiologic demands. This progress report provides a perspective on how advanced materials technologies could be used (i) to engineer and systematically analyze specific aspects of functional stem cells niches in a controlled fashion in vitro and (ii) to target stem cell niches in vivo. Such "artificial niches" constitute potent tools for elucidating stem cell regulatory mechanisms with the capacity to directly impact the development of novel therapeutic strategies for tissue regeneration. [source] Exploring the nutrition and lifestyle knowledge, attitudes and behaviour of student home economics teachers: baseline findings from a 4-year longitudinal studyINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CONSUMER STUDIES, Issue 4 2008Mary Isobelle Mullaney Abstract It is widely acknowledged that obesity linked with reduced exercise contributes to health problems, and that, conversely, individuals who embark on weight reducing diets may become deficient in key nutrients. It is often advocated that these problems, which can be grouped together as poor dietary practice, be tackled through education. This study attempts to examine the relationship between nutrition education and lifestyle behaviours in a select group of third level students. The Irish Home Economics curriculum aims to teach secondary school pupils about nutrition and lifestyle practices conducive to health. However, the attitudes and lifestyle practices of those teaching this subject have never been examined in Ireland. The purpose of the present 4-year longitudinal study, whose first year findings are presented here, is to investigate the nutrition and lifestyle knowledge, attitudes and behaviours of a cohort of Irish student home economics teachers over the 4 years of their Bachelor of Education (Home Economics) degree course. The study was designed to explore possible changes in knowledge, attitudes and practices over the course of their professional education. Nutritional knowledge was measured using a 220-question adapted version of the test devised by Parmenter and Wardle. Attitudes were measured using a questionnaire adapted from the Pan-EU Survey on Consumer Attitudes to Physical Activity, Body-weight and Health. Food, alcohol consumption and exercise were measured using a 7-day reported dietary/exercise diary. Nutrient intake data were determined using dietary analysis. Weight, height and waist circumference were measured and body mass index (BMI) calculated. When starting college, student home economics teachers have broadly similar anthropometric, dietary and lifestyle characteristics to those of their contemporaries. Mean BMI was identical [24.4 kg/m2 (SD 4.3)] to that reported in the North/South Ireland Food Consumption Survey (NSIFCS) for those aged 18,35 years, although energy intakes were significantly higher in the cohort of student teachers (P = 0.000). Thirty-eight per cent were overweight or obese vs. 33.6% in the NSIFCS. Only 17% (n = 6) of students achieved an intake of 300 µg/day of folate as recommended by the Food Safety Authority of Ireland and only one the recommended intake of non-starch polysaccharides (18 g/day). One in three students in this study smoke (16 of 48) and alcohol consumption was high. Only one student was very active. Students scored a mean of 55% (SD 8%) on the knowledge test, with similar scores attained for specific aspects of nutritional knowledge (i.e. food groups, constituents of foods, current dietary advice, nutrients, lifestyle practices). However, knowledge of nutrition definitions was weaker with a mean score of 31% (SD 8.6%). Students had a positive attitude towards food choice, the link between food and health and control over their own diet. Similar attitudes towards exercise, smoking and alcohol consumption were displayed despite students perceiving themselves as not having a balanced diet, having insufficient exercise and having regretted something done as a result of consuming alcohol. They appear to display optimistic bias in relation to health risks. These findings provide baseline data for the longitudinal study and indicate that those choosing to pursue a career as a home economics teacher in Ireland have similar nutritional and lifestyle characteristics to those of their contemporaries. [source] Radio resource management across multiple protocol layers in satellite networks: a tutorial overviewINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SATELLITE COMMUNICATIONS AND NETWORKING, Issue 5 2005Paolo Barsocchi Abstract Satellite transmissions have an important role in telephone communications, television broadcasting, computer communications, maritime navigation, and military command and control. Moreover, in many situations they may be the only possible communication set-up. Trends in telecommunications indicate that four major growth market/service areas are messaging and navigation services (wireless and satellite), mobility services (wireless and satellite), video delivery services (cable and satellite), and interactive multimedia services (fibre/cable, satellite). When using geostationary satellites (GEO), the long propagation delay may have great impact, given the end-to-end delay user's requirements of relevant applications; moreover, atmospheric conditions may seriously affect data transmission. Since satellite bandwidth is a relatively scarce resource compared to the terrestrial one (e.g. in optical transport networks), and the environment is harsher, resource management of the radio segment plays an important role in the system's efficiency and economy. The radio resource management (RMM) entity is responsible for the utilization of the air interface resources, and covers power control, handover, admission control, congestion control, bandwidth allocation, and packet scheduling. RRM functions are crucial for the best possible utilization of the capacity. RRM functions can be implemented in different ways, thus having an impact on the overall system efficiency. This tutorial aims to provide an overview of satellite transmission aspects at various OSI layers, with emphasis on the MAC layer; some cross-layer solutions for bandwidth allocation are also indicated. Far from being an exhaustive survey (mainly due to the extensive nature of the subject), it offers the readers an extensive bibliography, which could be used for further research on specific aspects. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Psychological Reactions to Adaptive TestingINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SELECTION AND ASSESSMENT, Issue 1 2000Scott Tonidanel The purpose of the study was to examine how specific aspects of adaptive testing influence test-takers pre-test reactions. Specifically, three different psychological reactions were examined in the study: perceived fairness of the test, attitude toward the test, and expectations about the test. Fifty-three undergraduates were presented with descriptions of hypothetical selection tests that were manipulated to reflect characteristics of adaptive tests that differ from traditional paper-and-pencil tests. The results indicate that certain features of adaptive tests, such as the inability to skip questions, may adversely impact test-takers' reactions. Implications for test designers are discussed. [source] Psychosocial Care Needs of Children With Recent-Onset AsthmaJOURNAL FOR SPECIALISTS IN PEDIATRIC NURSING, Issue 1 2007Angela M. McNelis PURPOSE.,To examine psychosocial care needs of children with recent-onset asthma. DESIGN/METHODS.,Data were collected over 2 years from 63 children ages 8,14 years. RESULTS.,Children's need for attention to specific aspects of their asthma care remained high over the 2 years, as did their perceived needs for information and support and their concerns and fears. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS.,Children have many needs, and healthcare professionals may not be providing care that addresses these needs. The Child Report of Psychosocial Care can be used as a quick tool to assess and guide interventions related to specific areas of need. [source] Medication communication: a concept analysisJOURNAL OF ADVANCED NURSING, Issue 4 2010Elizabeth Manias manias e. (2010) Medication communication: a concept analysis. Journal of Advanced Nursing66(4), 933,943. Abstract Title.,Medication communication: a concept analysis. Aim., This paper is a report of a concept analysis of medication communication with a particular focus on how it applies to nursing. Background., Medication communication is a vital component of patient safety, quality of care, and patient and family engagement. Nevertheless, this concept has been consistently taken-for-granted without adequate analysis, definition or clarification in the quality and patient safety literature. Data sources., A literature search was undertaken using bibliographic databases, internet search engines, and hand searches. Literature published in English between January 1988 and June 2009 was reviewed. Walker and Avant's approach was used to guide the concept analysis. Discussion., Medication communication is a dynamic and complex process. Defining attributes consider who speaks, who is silent, what is said, what aspects of medication care are prioritized, the use of body language in conversations, and actual words used. Open communication occurs if there is cooperation among individuals in implementing plans of care. Antecedents involve environmental influences such as ward culture and geographical space, and sociocultural influences such as beliefs about the nature of interactions. Consequences involve patient and family engagement in communication, evidence of appropriate medication use, the frequency and type of medication-related adverse events, and the presence of medication adherence. Empirical referents typically do not reflect specific aspects of medication communication. Conclusion., This concept analysis can be used by nurses to guide them in understanding the complexities surrounding medication communication, with the ultimate goal of improving patient safety, quality of care, and facilitating patient and family engagement. [source] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||