bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human microvascular endothelial cellular interaction with atomic N‐doped DLC compared with Si‐doped DLC thin films
Authors: Okpalugo T. I. T. , Murphy H. , Ogwu A. A. , Abbas G. , Ray S. C. , Maguire P. D. , McLaughlin J. , McCullough R. W.
Published: March 2006

This article reports results of endothelial cell interaction with atom beam source N‐doped a‐C:H (diamond‐like carbon, DLC) as it compares with that of Si‐doped DLC thin films. The RF plasma source exhibits up to 40% N‐dissociation and N‐atomic fluxes of ∼0.85 × 1018 atoms/s, which ensures better atomic nitrogen incorporation. Two different types of nitrogen species (with and without the use of sweep plates to remove charged ions) were employed for nitrogen doping. The number of attached endothelial cells is highest on Si‐DLC, followed by the N‐DLC (where the sweep plates were used to remove ions), the N‐DLC (without the use of sweep plates), undoped DLC, and finally the uncoated sample. The contact angle values for these films suggest that water contact angle is higher in the atomic nitrogen neutral films and Si‐DLC films compared to the ionized‐nitrogen specie doped films and undoped DLC thin films, suggesting that the more hydrophobic films, semiconducting films, and film with relieved stress have better interaction with human microvascular endothelial cells. It seems evident that N‐doping increases the Raman ID/IG ratios, whereas N‐neutral doping decreases it slightly and Si‐doping decreases it even further. In this study, lower Raman ID/IG ratios are associated with increased sp3/sp2 ratio, an increased H concentration, photoluminescence intensity, and a higher endothelial cellular adhesion. These investigations could be relevant to biocompatibility assessment of nanostructured biomaterials and tissue engineering. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2006
Collapse pressures of bilayered biodegradable stents
Authors: Tan L. P. , Venkatraman Subbu S. , Joso J. F. D. , Boey Freddy Y. C.
Published: March 2006

Biodegradable helicoidal stent prototypes made up of layers of poly‐L‐lactic acid (PLLA) and poly(L‐lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA) polymers were fabricated by temperature conditioning the stents at different stages of fabrication. The process incorporated elastic memory, or self‐expandability in the stent, which is desirable to minimize stent recoil. The collapse pressures of such stents were studied, with and without in vitro degradation. The effects of thickness and the composition of each layer on the collapse pressure were modeled using the simple series model. Results of the in vitro studies for over 3 months showed that collapse pressure of the stents depended mainly on the degradation and other side‐effects brought about by the degradation of different polymer compositions. Generally, the trend is dominated by the thicker of the two layers that were used to form the stents. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2006
Diadenosines as FHIT‐ness instructors
Authors: Campiglio Manuela , Bianchi Francesca , Andriani Francesca , Sozzi Gabriella , Tagliabue Elda , Ménard Sylvie , Roz Luca
Published: March 2006

FHITis a tumor suppressor gene that is frequently inactivated in human cancer. Although the Fhit protein is known to hydrolyze diadenosine triphosphate (Ap3A), this hydrolase activity is not required for Fhit‐mediated oncosuppression. Indeed, the molecular mechanisms and the regulatory elements of Fhit oncosuppression are largely unknown. Here, we review physiological and pathological aspects of Fhit in the context of the ApnA family of signaling molecules, as well as the involvement of Fhit in apoptosis and the cell cycle in cancer models. We also discuss recent findings of novel Fhit interactions that may lead to new hypotheses about biochemical mechanisms underlying the oncosuppressor activity of this gene. J. Cell. Physiol. 208: 274–281, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The responsiveness of regenerated soleus muscle to pharmacological calcineurin inhibition
Authors: Koulmann Nathalie , Sanchez Hervé , N'Guessan Benoît , Chapot Rachel , Serrurier Bernard , Peinnequin André , Ventura‐Clapier Renée , Bigard Xavier
Published: March 2006

The responsiveness of mature regenerated soleus (SOL) muscles to cyclosporin A (CsA) administration was studied in rats. Forty‐two days after notexin‐induced degeneration of left SOL muscles, rats were treated with CsA (25 mg/kg · day) or vehicle daily for 3 weeks. CsA administration decreased by eightfold the level of transcription of MCIP‐1, a well‐known calcineurin‐induced gene, in intact as well as in regenerated muscles (P < 0.001). In response to CsA‐administration we observed a slow‐to‐fast transition in the MHC profile, more marked in regenerated than in intact muscles (P < 0.05), but mainly restricted to MHC‐Iβ toward MHC‐IIA. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that MHC‐IIA was often co‐expressed with MHC‐Iβ within myofibers of intact muscles, whereas it was mainly expressed within pure fast fibers of regenerated muscles. MHC‐Iβ mRNA levels were lower in regenerated than in intact muscles, but did not change in response to CsA‐administration. CsA administration induced a significant increase in MHC‐IIA mRNA levels (P < 0.001) similar in both intact and regenerated muscles. Present results suggest that in vivo in intact SOL muscles, calcineurin blocks the upregulation of the MHC‐IIA isoform at the transcriptional level. On the other hand, the higher response of regenerated muscles to CsA administration cannot be explained by transcriptional events, and may result from either a more rapid turnover of MHC proteins in regenerated muscles than in intact ones, or translational events. This study further suggests that the developmental history of myofibers could play a role in the adaptability of skeletal muscle to variations in neuromuscular activity. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Assessing and evaluating community organizations' capacity for working in HIV/AIDS responses in India, Ecuador and Cambodia
Authors: Gupta Sachin , McPherson Sam , Sellers Tilly , Chamreun Choub Sok , Choudhary Bollepalli Narendra , Levene Josh
Published: March 2006

Civil society programmes and funding mechanisms need tools to assess capacities of organizations to identify credible partners and further build their capacity to absorb funds and implement programmes. However, for all the investment in capacity building, results and impact are often difficult to evaluate, although most programmes monitor process indicators. The International HIV/AIDS Alliance is running a multi‐country prevention programme with over 60 community organizations where participatory analysis of partners' capacities at the beginning of a programme will accelerate capacity building and provide baseline data to evaluate increases in capacity and impacts on programme outcomes. The work has contributed to a new printed toolkit for analysing NGO capacity. Unlike many assessment tools, the toolkit provides participatory training hand‐in‐hand with participatory appraisal methods, to enable organisations to critically reflect and motivate for change internally. The scope of the toolkit goes beyond traditional organisational development, to look at other areas of capacity instrumental for organisations providing services and working for change related to HIV/AIDS. The toolkit is freely available from the organisation's website (www.aidsalliance.org). Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Are the development policy implications of the new economy, new? All that is old is new again
Authors: Clarke Matthew
Published: March 2006

There is an (optimistic) view within the literature that the convergence of two long‐run broad trends, globalization and advances in information and communication technology, has resulted in a ‘new’ world economy. Within such a new economy, knowledge replaces traditional productivity input as the primary driver of economic growth. Evidence of this new economy is scarce, yet proponents are optimistic that such an economy offers great hope for developing countries. If this optimism is warranted appropriate government policies would include improving access levels and quality of telecommunication and electricity infrastructure, education and providing both direct and indirect support to encourage local firms to become engaged with the global economy. Ironically, these policies are consistent with current orthodox development policies currently pursued within the ‘old’ economy. In this regard, it seems that all that is old is new again. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Confocal microscopy of the light organ crypts in juvenile Euprymna scolopes reveals their morphological complexity and dynamic function in symbiosis
Authors: Sycuro Laura K. , Ruby Edward G. , McFall‐Ngai Margaret
Published: March 2006

In the hours to days following hatching, the Hawaiian bobtail squid, Euprymna scolopes, obtains its light‐emitting symbiont, Vibrio fischeri, from the surrounding environment and propagates the bacteria in the epithelial crypts of a specialized light organ. Three‐dimensional analyses using confocal microscopy revealed that each of the three crypts on either side of the juvenile light organ is composed of four morphological regions. Progressing from the lateral pore to the medial blind end of each crypt, the regions consist of 1) a duct, 2) an antechamber, 3) a bottleneck, and 4) a deep region. Only the deep region houses a persistent bacterial population, whereas the duct, antechamber, and bottleneck serve as conduits through which the bacteria enter during initial colonization and exit during diel venting, a behavior in which ∼90% of the symbionts are expelled each dawn. Our data suggest that, like the duct, the antechamber and bottleneck may function to promote and maintain the specificity of the symbiosis. Pronounced structural and functional differences among the deep regions of the three crypts, along with previously reported characterizations of embryogenesis, suggest a continued developmental progression in the first few days after hatching. Taken together, the results of this study reveal a high degree of complexity in the morphology of the crypts, as well as in the extent to which the three crypts and their constituent regions differ in function during the early stages of the symbiosis. J. Morphol. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Modulation of calcium entry and glutamate release in cultured cerebellar granule cells by palytoxin
Authors: Vale Carmen , Alfonso Amparo , Suñol Cristina , Vieytes Mercedes R. , Botana Luis M.
Published: March 2006

A channel open on the membrane can be formed by palytoxin (PTX). Ten nanomolar PTX caused an irreversible increase in the cytosolic calcium concentration ([Ca2+]c), which was abolished in the absence of external calcium. The increase was eliminated by saxitoxin (STX) and nifedipine (NIF). Calcium rise is secondary to the membrane depolarization. PTX effect on calcium was dependent on extracellular Na+. Li+ decreased the PTX‐evoked rise in [Ca2+]c; replacement of Na+ by N‐methyl‐D‐glucamine (NMDG) abolished PTX‐induced calcium increase. [Ca2+]c increase by PTX was strongly reduced after inhibition of the reverse operation of the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger, in the presence of antagonists of excitatory amino acid (EAA) receptors, and by inhibition of neurotransmitter release. PTX did not modify calcium extrusion by the plasma membrane Ca2+‐ATPase (PMCA), because blockade of the calcium pump increased rather than decreased the PTX‐induced calcium influx. Extracellular levels of glutamate and aspartate were measured by HPLC and exocytotic neurotransmitter release by determination of synaptic vesicle exocytosis using total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy (TIRFM). PTX caused a concentration‐dependent increase in EAA release to the culture medium. Ten nanomolar PTX decreased cell viability by 30% within 5 min. PTX‐induced calcium influx involves three pathways: Na+‐dependent activation of voltage‐dependent sodium channels (VDSC) and voltage‐dependent calcium channels (VDCC), reverse operation of the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger, and indirect activation of EAA receptors through glutamate release. The neuronal injury produced by the toxin could be partially mediated by the PTX‐induced overactivation of EAA receptors, VDSC, VDCC and the glutamate efflux into the extracellular space. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
From monosilane to crystalline silicon, part II: Kinetic considerations on thermal decomposition of pressurized monosilane
Authors: Odden J. O. , Egeberg P. K. , Kjekshus A.
Published: March 2006

Kinetic aspects of the thermal decomposition of monosilane at 690–830 K and initial pressures of 0.1–3.7 MPa in a free‐space reactor are considered. Neglecting the preparatory initiation period for the reaction (which is difficult to evaluate under the present dynamic conditions), the onset temperature for the decomposition is stipulated to some 700–710 K, independent of the initial monosilane pressure. The overall reaction appears to be of first order throughout the progressing decomposition process. We observe considerably lower reaction rates under the high‐pressure conditions than existing models in the literature suggest. A modified model is proposed that simulates the observed reaction rates within ±1% and moreover predicts credible concentrations of the involved gaseous species. A key feature of the modified model is incorporation of two third‐body assisted surface reactions, which generate monosilane from disilane and disilane from trisilane. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 38: 309–321, 2006
Unbalanced whole arm translocation resulting in loss of 18p in dystonia
Authors: Nasir Jamal , Frima Nafsika , Pickard Ben , Malloy M. Pat , Zhan Lingping , Grünewald Richard
Published: March 2006

Dystonia represents a genetically and clinically heterogeneous disorder, characterized by abnormal and sustained muscle contractions and rigid postures. At least 15 different loci (DYT1–DYT15) have been identified in dystonia. Adult‐onset idiopathic focal dystonia affecting specific parts of the body, such as the eye (blepharospasm), neck (cervical dystonia), and hand (writer's cramp), is mostly associated with the DYT7 locus, which was originally mapped to chromosome 18p by genomewide linkage analysis in a large family showing autosomal dominant inheritance. We have identified a family in which the mother is affected with dystonia and the son shows signs of dystonia. Using fluorescent BAC probes spanning 18p, we were able to identify a deletion in these two individuals, spanning the entire short arm of 18p. This deletion is accompanied by a centric fusion involving chromosome 14. The 18p deleted region spans 15 megabases of DNA, with a number of interesting DYT7 candidate genes, including genes involved in G‐protein–coupled signaling (GNAL), cell death (CIDEA), muscle development (MYOM1 and MRLM), mitochondrial activity (NDUFV2), and neuronal function (ADYCAP1, TGIF, DAP‐1, and AFG3L2). © 2006 Movement Disorder Society
Dual‐tasking effects on gait variability: The role of aging, falls, and executive function
Authors: Springer Shmuel , Giladi Nir , Peretz Chava , Yogev Galit , Simon Ely S. , Hausdorff Jeffrey M.
Published: March 2006

The objectives of the present study were to test the hypothesis that the dual‐tasking effect on gait variability is larger in healthy older adults than it is in healthy young adults; that this effect is larger in idiopathic elderly fallers than it is in healthy older adults; and that the dual‐tasking effects on gait variability are correlated with executive function (EF). Young adults and older adults who were classified as fallers and nonfallers were studied. Gait speed, swing time, and swing time variability, a marker of fall risk, were measured during usual walking and during three different dual‐tasking conditions. EF and memory were evaluated. When performing dual tasks, all three groups significantly decreased their gait speed. Dual tasking did not affect swing time variability in the young adults and in the nonfallers. Conversely, dual tasking markedly increased swing time variability in the fallers. While memory was similar in fallers and nonfallers, EF was different. The faller‐specific response to dual tasking was significantly correlated with tests of EF. These findings demonstrate that dual tasking does not affect the gait variability of elderly nonfallers or young adults. In contrast, dual tasking destabilizes the gait of idiopathic elderly fallers, an effect that appears to be mediated in part by a decline in EF. © 2006 Movement Disorder Society
Novel PRKCG/SCA14 mutation in a Dutch spinocerebellar ataxia family: Expanding the phenotype
Authors: Vlak Monique H.M. , Sinke Richard J. , Rabelink Gwenda M. , Kremer Berry P.H. , van de Warrenburg Bart P.C.
Published: March 2006

We report on a family with an autosomal dominant cerebellar ataxia in which we identified a novel mutation in exon 5 of the PRKCG/SCA14 gene that results in a Val138Glu substitution in the encoded protein PKCγ. While most affected subjects displayed a late‐onset uncomplicated form of spinocerebellar ataxia with occasional mild extrapyramidal features (such as postural tremor), one patient presented with a very mild nonprogressive ataxia since the age of 3 years and predominant multifocal myoclonus. © 2006 Movement Disorder Society
Molecular characterization of three forms of vitellogenin and their yolk protein products during oocyte growth and maturation in red seabream (Pagrus major), a marine teleost spawning pelagic eggs
Authors: Sawaguchi Sayumi , Kagawa Hirohiko , Ohkubo Nobuyuki , Hiramatsu Naoshi , Sullivan Craig V. , Matsubara Takahiro
Published: March 2006

Full‐length cDNAs encoding three forms of vitellogenin (Vg) were obtained from a liver cDNA library of estrogen‐treated red seabream, Pagrus major. Two of the three Vg sequences had high homology with type‐A and ‐B Vgs (VgA and VgB) of other teleosts. The third red seabream Vg was classified as a type‐C or phosvitinless (Pvl) Vg due to its lack of a phosvitin (Pv) domain. Two Vg preparations (610 and 340 kDa) from blood serum of estradiol‐treated fish were biochemically characterized. Analyses of precursor‐product relationships by examination of N‐terminal amino acid sequences verified cleavage of the 610 kDa Vg into a 540 kDa lipovitellin (Lv) and a 32 kDa β′‐component. Each of these yolk preparations comprising both VgA‐ and VgB‐derived polypeptides. The 340 kDa Vg, which was immunologically verified to be a PvlVg, was accumulated by vitellogenic oocytes with no alterations to its native molecular mass. During oocyte maturation, the VgA‐ and VgB‐derived yolk proteins were differentially processed, presumably to generate a pool of free amino acids for oocyte hydration or for allocation of specific types of nutrients, amino acids, and proteins, to the developing embryo. Conversely, the 340 kDa Vg‐derived yolk protein is unlikely to contribute to oocyte hydration or diffusible nutrients since the molecule underwent only minor proteolytic nicking during oogenesis. The present study elucidates for the first time specific functions of three different forms of Vg and their product yolk proteins in a higher taxonomic group of marine teleosts that spawn pelagic eggs. Mol. Reprod. Dev. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cognitive impairment in neuromuscular disorders
Authors: D'Angelo Maria Grazia , Bresolin Nereo
Published: March 2006

Several studies have suggested the presence of central nervous system involvement manifesting as cognitive impairment in diseases traditionally confined to the peripheral nervous system. The aim of this review is to highlight the character of clinical, genetic, neurofunctional, cognitive, and psychiatric deficits in neuromuscular disorders. A high correlation between cognitive features and cerebral protein expression or function is evident in Duchenne muscular dystrophy, myotonic dystrophy (Steinert disease), and mitochondrial encephalomyopathies; direct correlation between tissue‐specific protein expression and cognitive deficits is still elusive in certain neuromuscular disorders presenting with or without a cerebral abnormality, such as congenital muscular dystrophies, congenital myopathies, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, adult polyglucosan body disease, and limb‐girdle muscular dystrophies. No clear cognitive deficits have been found in spinal muscular atrophy and facioscapulohumeral dystrophy. Muscle Nerve, 2006
NMR spectroscopic studies on the late onset form of 3‐methylglutaconic aciduria type I and other defects in leucine metabolism
Authors: Engelke Udo F. H. , Kremer Berry , Kluijtmans Leo A. J. , van der Graaf Marinette , Morava Eva , Loupatty Ference J. , Wanders Ronald J. A. , Moskau Detlef , Loss Sandra , van den Bergh Erik , Wevers Ron A.
Published: March 2006

A diagnosis of 3‐methylglutaconic aciduria type I (OMIM: 250950) based on elevated urinary excretion of 3‐methylglutaconic acid (3MGA), 3‐methylglutaric acid (3MG) and 3‐hydroxyisovaleric acid (3HIVA) was made in a 61‐year‐old female patient presenting with leukoencephalopathy slowly progressing over more than 30 years. The diagnosis was confirmed at the enzymatic and molecular level. In vivo brain MR spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) was performed at 3.0 T, and one‐dimensional and two‐dimensional in vitro NMR spectroscopy of body fluids of the patient was performed at 11.7 T. Additionally, we measured 1D 1H‐NMR spectra of urine of seven patients with a total of four different inborn errors of leucine metabolism. Increased concentrations of 3HIVA, 3MGA (cis and trans) and 3MG were observed in the NMR spectra of the patient's urine. In the cerebrospinal fluid, the 3HIVA concentration was 10 times higher than in the plasma of the patient and only the cis isomer of 3MGA was observed. In vivo brain MRSI showed an abnormal resonance at 1.28 ppm that may be caused by 3HIVA. Comparison of 1H‐NMR spectra of urine samples from all eight patients studied, representing five different inborn errors of leucine metabolism, showed that each disease has typical NMR characteristics. Our leukoencephalopathy patient suffers from a late‐onset form of 3‐methylglutaconic aciduria type I. In the literature, only very few adult patients with this conditions have been described, and 3HIVA accumulation in white matter in the brain has not been presented before in these patients. Our data demonstrate that 1H‐NMR spectroscopy of urine can easily discriminate between the known inborn errors of leucine metabolism and provide the correct diagnosis. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Problem solving, sense of coherence and instrumental ADL of elderly people with depression and normal control group
Authors: Ziv Noga , Roitman Deborah M. , Katz Noomi
Published: March 2006

The purpose of this study was first, to explore the separate contribution and interaction between verbal and performance based problem solving and sense of coherence; and second, to examine the association of these variables with Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) function among elderly people with depression living in the commuinity and a normal control group. The participants included elders receiving ambulatory care for depression (n=31; mean age=73, SD=9.3); and normal elders (n=30; mean age=78, SD=5.8). Screening for general cognitive ability and level of depression was done using the Mini Mental Status Examination (MMSE) and the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS). All participants underwent evaluation using the Large Allen Cognitive Level Test (LACL) (a measure of performance based problem solving); the Problem Solving Verbal Reaction to everyday problematic situations (PSVR); the Sense of Coherence questionnaire (SOC) and the Routine Task Inventory (RTI) (a measure of IADL from the cognitive perspective). Wilcoxon statistical analysis indicated highly significant differences between the two groups for all of the study variables. In the depressive group, significant correlations were found between the components of problem solving (LACL and PSVR) and IADL (r=0.70 and r=0.53), while the SOC did not correlate with IADL in either group. Results of ANCOVA controlling for LACL showed that it has a significant effect (F=13.63, p=0.001); however, beyond it verbal problem solving still has a significant effect on IADL (F=4.77, p=0.02), and SOC in interaction with verbal problem solving was significant (F=3.97, p=0.035). The findings suggest that depression in elderly people is associated with lower functioning in problem solving and IADL function, and lower sense of coherence; hence, attention to these factors should be integral to intervention with elderly people. However, it is recommended that further study be made of the relationships of variables found in this study with the current instruments, and also with additional tools because of confounding effects, in order to further support and validate the findings. As the sample size was small compared with the number of measures, it is important to replicate the study with larger groups to have more power. Copyright © 1999 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Empowerment versus power: consumer participation in mental health services
Authors: Honey Anne
Published: March 2006

Consumer participation is regarded as increasingly important in the effective delivery of mental health services and for the empowerment of mental health consumers. In a qualitative study, 17 consumers and 10 occupational therapists discussed their perceptions of consumer participation in mental health services. These included the advantages and benefits of consumer participation, the barriers to participation and how health workers can facilitate participation. The research brought to light an uncertain relationship between empowerment and power. While empowerment was universally considered to be desirable, opinions about the transfer of power were more ambivalent. It is argued that consumers and health workers need to work together to find creative ways of addressing concerns relating to power so that real power can be shared to benefit all consumers. Limitations of the study included the small sample size and the sampling method, which restricted access to potential participants. Further research is suggested into consumer participation and consumer power. Copyright © 1999 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Self‐concept, achievement and occupation in gifted Taiwanese adolescents
Authors: Kao Chih‐Chuan , Kellegrew Diane Hammon
Published: March 2006

The education of gifted adolescents that underachieve is a significant problem that impacts on the child's educational opportunities and possible career trajectory. Many researchers propose that a child's self‐concept is predictive of academic achievement. Using an occupational science paradigm, this study examined the notion that an adolescent's self‐concept and academic achievement are also related to the types and time expended in occupation. Eighteen gifted achieving and under‐achieving Taiwanese junior high school students completed the Multidimensional Self‐concept Scale and a time diary for one week in the summer. The results indicated that self‐concept, achievement and time expended in academic occupations are positively related. Furthermore, there are differences between these two groups of students in the time expended in academic and social activities. The study has cross‐cultural implications regarding the time use of young Taiwanese teens. Copyright © 2000 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
The perception of occupational therapy by special school teachers in Hong Kong
Authors: Chow Susanna Mei‐Kum , Chung Jenny Ching‐Ching
Published: March 2006

Teachers are the main partners of pediatric occupational therapists in special schools. Their understanding of occupational therapy influences the provision of occupational therapy programmes in schools. Two hundred and sixty‐three special school teachers were surveyed about their perception of occupational therapy in four areas: definition of occupational therapy, occupational therapists' clientele, domain of concern, and treatment media. Results showed a poor understanding. The majority of respondents did not recognise the contribution of occupational therapists' in the treatment of children with mental handicap or emotional difficulties. More than half of the respondents knew neither occupational therapists domain of concern nor the treatment media. Occupational therapists were seen to work solely with children with physically disabilities in the aspects of work and home related functions. The best known role of occupational therapists was prescription of aids and equipment. The results indicated that occupational therapists should direct their effort to educate and promote occupational therapy to other professionals and to the public. Copyright © 1996 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Occupational therapy in hospital based care in the Netherlands: a comparison of occupational therapy in general care (nursing homes, rehabilitation centres and general hospitals) and psychiatric care
Authors: Driessen Marie‐Jose , Dekker Joost , Van Der Zee Jouke , Lankhorst Gustaaf
Published: March 2006

Objective: to investigate (1) whether differences in occupational therapy practice exist between general and psychiatric care and (2) whether differences in occupational therapy practice exist between general care settings. The four most common settings where occupational therapists work in the Netherlands (nursing homes, rehabilitation centres, general hospitals and psychiatric hospitals) were studied.

Method: a total of 143 therapists, working in 49 occupational therapy departments, participated in this study. They collected data on 1051 patients. For each patient a standard registration form, based on the International Classification of Impairments Disabilities and Handicaps (ICIDH) was filled out. This form contained information about (i) patient characteristics (ii) occupational therapy diagnosis and treatment goals in terms of ICIDH and (iii) treatment characteristics.

Results and conclusions: occupational therapy treatment goals and interventions showed clear differences between psychiatric and general care settings. The differences in occupational therapy practice across general care settings were small. Copyright © 1996 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Discriminant validity of the Developmental Test of Visual Perception–2 for children with learning disabilities
Authors: Moryosef‐Ittah Sol , Hinojosa Jim
Published: March 2006

This study examined the discriminant validity of the Developmental Test of Visual Perception‐2 (DTVP‐2). It was administered to 17 children between the ages 7 and 10 with learning disabilities. Their scores were compared with the reported scores of the normative sample and found to be significantly lower, suggesting that the DTVP‐2 can discriminate between children with and without learning disabilities on the variable of visual perception. The study supports the use of the DTVP‐2 to assess the visual‐perceptual abilities of children with learning disabilities. Further research is suggested to corroborate findings. Copyright © 1996 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
A review of functional assessment measures for paediatric clients with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Brown G. Ted
Published: March 2006

Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) is a frequent source of chronic illness and disability in childhood. Traditional clinical assessment of clients with JRA include measures of joint deformity, range of motion, duration of morning stiffness, pain and strength. In many instances, these traditional measures have little or no significance or relevance to paediatric clients and their parents whereas functional skills used in every day living are more likely to be meaningful. Reliable, valid and sensitive measures of function are an essential part of the holistic care and occupational therapy management of paediatric clients with JRA. Several self‐report functional instruments are now available which measure a child's or adolescent's functional abilities. In this paper, the impact of JRA on functional development, JRA and functional assessment and specific types of functional measures that occupational therapy personnel can use with clients with JRA will be discussed. It is imperative to identify which functional measures can be effectively used in the clinical setting with paediatric clients diagnosed with JRA. Copyright © 1996 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Princess or tyrant: a case report of a child with sensory defensiveness
Authors: Kinnealey Moya
Published: March 2006

The case report of Carrie describes a 3‐and‐a‐half‐year‐old girl with sensory defensiveness. Social, emotional and behavioural problems related to this condition interfered with her assuming age‐appropriate roles and learning pre‐school skills. She responded well to occupational therapy using a sensory integration approach. Particular attention had to be paid to Carrie's anxiety, need for control, and the family dynamics that occur with this type of disability. Copyright © 1998 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Case report of a child with sensory integration dysfunction
Authors: Reeves Gretchen Dahl
Published: March 2006

This case report describes a 6‐year‐old boy with delays in fine motor skills, low frustration level, poor eating behaviour, low self‐esteem, unusual fears and increased sensitivity to tactile, visual and auditory stimuli. Formal evaluation on the Sensory Integration and Praxis Tests (SIPT) revealed decreased somatosensory processing and discrimination, immature postural reactions and poor motor planning. Intervention addressed concerns primarily through the sensory integration model of practice. A 9‐month intervention period where one‐to‐one therapy was provided each week facilitated improvement in all areas of concern. Copyright © 1998 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Research utilization models: frameworks for implementing evidence‐based occupational therapy practice
Authors: Brown G Ted , Rodger Sylvia
Published: March 2006

Evidence‐based practice is an important step in the professional evolution of occupational therapy and also provides the means for state‐of‐the‐art innovative clinical service for clients. An essential step in incorporating innovations and developments into clinical practice is through research utilization. Nine models of research utilization developed in the literature are reviewed and critiqued. These are: (1) the Conduct and Utilization of Research in Nursing (CURN) Project; (2) the Stetler‐Marram Model; (3) the University of North Carolina Approach; (4) the Innovation Diffusion Process Model; (5) Killeen's Matrix of Research Activity; (6) the Iowa Model of Research In Practice; (7) the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education In Nursing Project; (8) the Nursing Child Assessment Satellite Training Project; and (9) the Linkage Model. Research utilization models provide a framework for collaboration and the necessary conditions for research utilization activities to be successful. Copyright © 1999 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Cross‐cultural awareness and occupational therapy education
Authors: Yuen Hon Keung , Yau Matthew K
Published: March 2006

Occupational therapy educators across the USA are designing curricula to enhance future therapists' cultural competence, in order to meet the increasing demands of serving clients from a variety of cultural backgrounds. Curricula based on an experiential learning approach to increase multicultural awareness and sensitivity have been advocated in the literature. This study describes the use of a cultural interview experience with first‐year occupational therapy students and the impact of the experience on increasing students' cultural awareness, sensitivity and attitude towards another ethnic group. As part of their course assignment, students were required to interview someone who either originated from another country, or had spent at least 10 years in a foreign country. Most students interviewed international students on campus; the ethnic background of the interviewees was very diverse, and included European, South American, African, Middle Eastern and Asian backgrounds. Forty‐two students provided written feedback after their interview. Content analysis showed that more than 70% of the students said the interview had a positive effect on their awareness of another cultural group; and about 45% said the interview had a positive effect on their sensitivity and attitude towards another culture. Some ethnocentric views still existed among some students. It is concluded that experiential learning in the form of interviewing an individual of another ethnic background can have a positive impact on awareness of and, to a certain extent, on sensitivity and attitude toward another cultural group. Copyright © 1999 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Occupational therapy in mental health: challenges and opportunities
Authors: Lloyd Chris , Kanowski Helen , Maas Frikkie
Published: March 2006

The National Mental Health Policy and National Mental Health Plan published in 1992 provided directions for the reform of mental health services in Australia. They stated that mental health services should be part of the mainstream health system and that integrated mental health programmes should be developed to cover the full range of specialist mental health services, focusing on improved quality of service, the consumers, equity of access, continuity of care and redistribution of resources. The Queensland Mental Health Plan published in 1994 set out specific objectives and strategies for implementing mental health service reform in Queensland. In Queensland there has been a concentration on developing core mental health services involving the reorientation of service delivery from institutions to the community, based on the principles of integration, mainstreaming and regional self‐sufficiency. Major restructuring of mental health services is taking place, which has meant changes in service development, organizational structures and work practices. There has been a significant impact on the roles and skills required by the mental health workforce in the context of today's mental health services climate. There is a focus on staff providing individualized assessment and continuing treatment using a case management approach, within a continuum of care. Implications for occupational therapists include developing a generic skill base in preparation for broad‐spectrum mental health professional roles while maintaining their professional identity. It is recommended that research be conducted to examine the capacity of occupational therapists to adapt to the changing mental health environment. Copyright © 1999 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Poly‐1‐butene/clay nanocomposite effect of compatibilizers on thermal and fire retardant properties
Authors: Bocchini Sergio , Frache Alberto , Camino Giovanni , Costantini Enrico , Ferrara Giuseppe , Fatinel Fabiana
Published: March 2006

Isotactic poly‐1‐butene was melt blended with montmorillonite modified with di‐methyl di‐hydrogentallow ammonium ion. Maleic anhydride grafted poly(propylene) or poly(ethylene‐co‐vinylacetate) were used as compatibilizers. Thermal and fire retardant behavior of the polymer matrix were enhanced by the attitude of clay to form a thermally stable protecting physical barrier on the surface of the decomposing polymer material. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ewing sarcoma/primitive neuroectodermal tumor of the kidney in a child
Authors: Maeda Miho , Tsuda Akio , Yamanishi Shingo , Uchikoba Yoko , Fukunaga Yoshitaka , Okita Hajime , Hata Jun‐ichi
Published: March 2006

A 6‐year‐old female was admitted with abdominal pain and a mass in the right abdomen. Her lactose dehydrogenase level was 1,200 IU/L, and neuron specific enolase was 120 ng/ml. Computed tomography scan confirmed a large right renal mass with necrosis. A right radical nephrectomy was performed. The tumor was completely encapsulated. Based on small round cell histology, strong MIC‐2 (CD99) positive tumor cells, and EWS‐FLI‐1 fusion transcript, Ewing sarcoma/primitive neuroectodermal tumor of the kidney was diagnosed. Induction and follow‐up with seven cycles of chemotherapy were given after surgery. She has had no evidence of recurrence 90 months from diagnosis. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2008;50:180–183. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis of poly(vinyl chloride)‐b‐poly(n‐butyl acrylate)‐b‐poly(vinyl chloride) by the competitive single‐electron‐transfer/degenerative‐chain‐transfer‐mediated living radical polymerization in water
Authors: Coelho Jorge F. J. , Silva Ana M. F. P. , Popov Anatoliy V. , Percec Virgil , Abreu Mariana V. , Gonçalves Pedro M. O. F. , Gil M. H.
Published: March 2006

The synthesis of a block copolymer poly(vinyl chloride)‐b‐poly(n‐butyl acrylate)‐b‐poly(vinyl chloride) is reported. This new material was synthesized by single‐electron‐transfer/degenerative‐chain‐transfer‐mediated living radical polymerization (SET‐DTLRP) in two steps. First, a bifunctional macroinitiator of α,ω‐di(iodo)poly (butyl acrylate) [α,ω‐di(iodo)PBA] was synthesized by SET‐DTLRP in water at 25 °C. The macroinitiator was further reinitiated by SET‐DTLRP, leading to the formation of the desired product. This ABA block copolymer was synthesized with high initiator efficiency. The kinetics of the copolymerization reaction was studied for two PBA macroinitiators with number–average molecular weight of 10 k and 20 k. The relationship between the conversion and the number–average molecular weight was found to be linear. The dynamic mechanical thermal analysis suggests just one phase, indicating that copolymer behaves as a single material with no phase separation. This methodology provides the access to several block copolymers and other complex architectures that result from combinations of thermoplastics (PVC) and elastomers (PBA). From industrial standpoint, this process is attractive, because of easy experimental setup and the environmental friendly reaction medium. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 3001–3008, 2006
Frontal free‐radical copolymerization of urethane–acrylates
Authors: Hu Ting , Chen Su , Tian Yuan , Pojman John A. , Chen Li
Published: March 2006

We report the first synthesis of urethane–acrylate copolymers via free‐radical frontal polymerization. In a typical run, the appropriate amounts of the reactants (urethane–acrylate macromonomer and 2‐hydroxyethyl acrylate) and initiator (ammonium persulfate) were dissolved in dimethyl sulfoxide. Frontal polymerization was initiated by the heating of the wall of the tube with a soldering iron, and the resultant hot fronts were allowed to self‐propagate throughout the reaction vessel. Once it was initiated, no further energy was required for the polymerization to occur. The dependence of the front velocity and front temperature on the initiator concentration was investigated. The front temperatures were between 55 and 65 °C, depending on the persulfate concentration. Thermogravimetric analysis indicated that the urethane–acrylate copolymers had higher thermal stability than pure frontally prepared polyurethane. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 3018–3024, 2006
Nonlinear viscoelastic behavior of styrene‐[ethylene‐(ethylene‐propylene)]‐styrene block copolymer
Authors: Zheng Qiang , Wang Wanjie , Yu Qiuming , Yu Jei , He Li , Tan Hong
Published: March 2006

Studies on the nonlinear viscoelastic behavior of styrene‐[ethylene‐(ethylene‐propylene)]‐styrene block copolymer (SEEPS) were carried out. The nonlinear viscoelastic region was determined through dynamic strain sweep test, and the critical shear strain (γc) of transition from linear viscoelastic region to nonlinear viscoealstic region was obtained. The relaxation time and modulus corresponding to the characteristic relaxation modes were also acquired through simulating the linear relaxation modulus curves using Maxwell model, and the damping functions were evaluated. Meanwhile, it is found that the nonlinear relaxation modulus obtained at relatively low shear strains follows the strain–time separation principle, and the damping function of SEEPS can be fit to Laun double exponential model well. Moreover, the successive start‐up of shear behavior, the steady shear behavior, and the relaxation behavior after steady shear were investigated, respectively. The results showed that Wagner model, derived from the K‐BKZ (Kearsley‐Bernstein, Kearsley, Zapas) constitutive equation, could simulate the experiment data well, and in addition, experiment data under the lower shear rates are almost identical with the fitting data, but there exists some deviation for data under considerable high shear rates. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 44: 1309–1319, 2006
Are lower airway or throat cultures predictive of sinus bacteriology in cystic fibrosis?
Authors: Muhlebach Marianne S. , Miller Melissa B. , Moore Charity , Wedd Joel P. , Drake Amelia F. , Leigh Margaret W.
Published: March 2006

The choice of antibiotics for sinusitis in children with cystic fibrosis (CF) is empirical or based on lower airway cultures, because sinus cultures are difficult to obtain. The aim of this study was to identify the main organisms cultured from CF children with chronic sinusitis, and to evaluate the concordance of concomitant sinus, oropharyngeal swab (OP), and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) cultures. OP and BALF cultures were done preoperatively, and sinus cultures were obtained during clinically indicated sinus surgery. The genetic identity of the bacteria was compared if the same organisms were present in upper and lower airway cultures. In total, 45 paired sinus‐BALF cultures from 31 patients were included. Twenty‐four of these had matched OP cultures. The mean age of patients was 9.5 ± 4.3 years, and 19 patients were ΔF508 homozygous. Bacterial sinus infection was present in 96%, caused by S. aureus (49%), P. aeruginosa (42%), and H. influenzae (22%). The diagnostic accuracy of BALF or OP cultures was low in predicting sinus infection, particularly at younger ages. Positive and negative predictive values (PPV and NPV) of BALF for P. aeruginosa infection were 65% and 67%, and for S. aureus, 76% and 63%, respectively. Predictive values for OP cultures were similar. Bacterial species were the same in sinus and OP or BALF samples of 12 patients of these bacteria 83% showed genetic identity. We conclude that S. aureus is an important pathogen in pediatric CF sinusitis, and that BALF or oropharyngeal cultures are poor predictors for organisms present in the sinuses. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2006; 41:445–451. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Validation of the screening instrument for neuropsychological impairment in stroke
Authors: Sodring Karen Margrethe , Laake Knut , Sveen Unni , Wyller Torgeir Bruun , Bautz‐Holter Erik
Published: March 2006

Background and Purpose

Full neuropsychological assessment is time‐consuming and exhausting for the patient in the early phase of stroke. The screening instrument for neuropsychological impairment in stroke (SINS) is a brief, bedside‐applicable instrument designed to screen perceptual and cognitive dysfunction related to functional activities in stroke. It has been developed by physiotherapists to be incorporated in the general assessment of the patient. This study evaluates the validity of the method against a more extensive reference method assessing cognitive function.

Methods and Results

An unselected group of hospitalized stroke patients (N=87) was assessed 10 days and 12 months after stroke. Factor analyses (52% explained variance), identified three factors: ‘aphasia’, ‘apraxia’ and ‘visuocognitive dysfunction’. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves demonstrated that for all factors, high specificity was maintained at the high sensitivity needed for a screening method. Kendall rank correlation coefficients between the scorings on the new instrument and the reference method were high. Effect size analysis showed that the ability of the new instrument to detect change in cognitive functioning during the first year was of the same magnitude as the reference method.

Conclusions

SINS has a high sensitivity regarding cognitive dysfunction, as diagnosed by the more comprehensive and time‐consuming reference method. The instrument would be useful as an initial step in the assessment of neuropsychological impairment in stroke patients. Copyright © 1998 Whurr Publishers Ltd.