bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Science Signaling
Podcast: 28 October 2008
Authors: Linding Rune , VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: December 2008

Rune Linding explains how combining NetPhorest with a genetic screen enables researchers to gain insight into the relationships among the identified players.
PRMT Versus Akt for FOXO
Authors: Gough Nancy R.
Published: December 2008

FOXO transcriptional activity is promoted by arginine methylation, which blocks phosphorylation by Akt.
Transporter in Action
Authors: Vinson Valda J.
Published: December 2008

The structure of a membrane transporter in an open state suggests that inward- and outward-facing cavities reciprocally open and close coordinated by two transmembrane segments.
Of Glia and Senses
Authors: Stern Peter
Published: December 2008

Non-neural glial cells are required for the normal operation of the main sensory organ of a nematode, influencing neuronal shape and function, as well as behavior.
A New Way to Cluster
Authors: Wong Wei
Published: December 2008

Endothelial cells preassemble tetraspanins and adhesion receptors in microdomains that cluster around the docking structures for adhering leukocytes.
Reaching for the Light
Authors: Wong Wei
Published: December 2008

Growth of the embryonic stem in
Arabidopsis thaliana
is controlled by a gene that functions downstream of the circadian clock and light signaling pathways.
Starving in the Midst of Plenty
Authors: Adler Elizabeth M.
Published: December 2008

Ceramide decreases the abundance of cell surface nutrient transporters to elicit cell death.
To Be or Not to Be
Authors: Hines Pamela J.
Published: December 2008

Positive and negative developmental signals that determine the locations of gas-exchanging leaf pores converge on a specific domain within a transcription factor.
PCTA: A New Player in TGF-β Signaling
Authors: Liu Fang
Published: December 2008

The distribution of promyelocytic leukemia protein between the nucleus and cytoplasm controls Smad activation.
Inflammatory Crosstalk
Authors: Foley John F.
Published: December 2008

Cooperation between Notch and Toll-like receptor signaling affects the expression of their target genes and can be blocked by interferon-γ.
Dynein-Independent Functions of DYNLL1/LC8: Redox State Sensing and Transcriptional Control
Authors: King Stephen M.
Published: December 2008

Stimuli that alter the dimerization state of the dynein light chain DYNLL1 influence its regulatory functions.
Landmine
Authors: Foley John F.
Published: December 2008

Intact eosinophil granules exhibit "intragranular" signaling in response to interferon-γ and the chemokine CCL11 to mediate the secretion of granule proteins.
Ligand-Dependent and -Independent Regulation of PPARγ and Orphan Nuclear Receptors
Authors: Xu H. Eric , Li Yong
Published: December 2008

It is too soon to conclude that the physiological activities of PPARγ are truly ligand-independent.
Lysyl Oxidase: A Matrix Inhibitor of TGF-β
Authors: Gough Nancy R.
Published: December 2008

The amine oxidase lysyl oxidase appears to inhibit transforming growth factor–β signaling in bone through a mechanism requiring its enzymatic activity.
A Divisive Tale
Authors: Hurtley Stella M.
Published: December 2008

During cell division, a component of the spindle inhibits a small regulatory binding protein, allowing another regulator to constrict a ring between the separating daughter cells.
Cytoskeleton and Substrate Stiffness
Authors: Vinson Valda J.
Published: December 2008

A model that predicts that substrate/surface stiffness acts through a cellular motor-clutch mechanism to alter retrograde flow rates and traction is confirmed in chick neurons.
Shaping Up
Authors: Hines Pamela J.
Published: December 2008

The growth pattern of the plant meristem, the group of stem cells at the tip of a growing shoot, is controlled by a microtubule-based mechanical feedback loop.
Unhealthy Competition
Authors: Kiberstis Paula A.
Published: December 2008

Cancerous immune cells create abnormal microenvironments in bone marrow that attract normal immune precursor cells, disrupting their function and exacerbating disease.
Adipose triglyceride lipase in human skeletal muscle is upregulated by exercise training
Authors: Alsted Thomas J. , Nybo Lars , Schweiger Martina , Fledelius Christian , Jacobsen Poul , Zimmermann Robert , Zechner Rudolf , Kiens Bente
Published: December 2008

Mobilization of fatty acids from stored triacylglycerol (TG) in adipose tissue and skeletal muscle [intramyocellular triacylglycerol (IMTG)] requires activity of lipases. Although exercise training increases the lipolytic capacity of skeletal muscle, the expression of hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL) is not changed. Recently, adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL) was identified as a TG-specific lipase in various rodent tissues. To investigate whether human skeletal muscle ATGL protein is regulated by endurance exercise training, 10 healthy young men completed 8 wk of supervised endurance exercise training. Western blotting analysis on lysates of skeletal muscle biopsy samples revealed that exercise training induced a twofold increase in skeletal muscle ATGL protein content. In contrast to ATGL, expression of comparative gene identification 58 (CGI-58), the activating protein of ATGL, and HSL protein was not significantly changed after the training period. The IMTG concentration was significantly decreased by 28% at termination of the training program compared with before. HSL-phoshorylation at Ser660was increased, HSL-Ser659phosporylation was unchanged, and HSL-phoshorylation at Ser565was decreased altogether, indicating an enhanced basal activity of this lipase. No change was found in the expression of diacylglycerol acyl transferase 1 (DGAT1) after training. Inhibition of HSL with a monospecific, small molecule inhibitor (76-0079) and stimulation of ATGL with CGI-58 revealed that significant ATGL activity is present in human skeletal muscle. These results suggest that ATGL in addition to HSL may be important for human skeletal muscle lipolysis.
Impact of Interferon Therapy after Curative Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Kudo Masatoshi
Published: December 2008

Primary and secondary prevention of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) which has become endemic worldwide in recent years are the most important issues in reducing mortality of HCC patients. Among several compounds previously reported for secondary prevention, treatment with interferon (IFN) is widely applied and shows encouraging results. To date, there have been 8 published randomized control trials (RCTs) and 6 published non-RCTs on IFN therapy after curative treatment of HCCs. Positive results were shown in 6 of 8 RCTs and in all of 6 non-RCT cohort studies regarding either recurrence rate or patient survival. The impact of IFN therapy after curative treatment of HCC can be summarized as follows: (1) HCC incidence of recurrence is reduced through viral clearance or long-term IFN treatment, even though HCV is not cleared. (2) Low-dose, long-term IFN (maintenance) therapy may suppress HCC recurrence through direct action of IFN on tumor cells. (3) Patient survival is improved through growth inhibition of recurrent tumors, as well as preservation of liver function. (4) According to the above 3 points, there is more chance to receive curative treatment in the IFN than the non-IFN group. (5) Pegylated IFN (PEG-IFN) may be more beneficial than non-PEG-IFN products since IFN concentration is maintained in the body at a high level, which is favorable for its action as a direct anticancer agent. (6) It may be concluded that IFN treatment after curative treatment of HCC is beneficial at least in HCV-related HCC, since it lowers recurrence and improves survival.
Epidemiological Survey of Epilepsy in the Special School Population in the City of Buenos Aires
Authors: Somoza Manuel J. , Forlenza Raul H. , Brussino Marta , Centurión Estela
Published: December 2008

Background: Previous studies in special schools have shown a high prevalence of epilepsy, which is strongly associated with cerebral palsy and severe mental retardation. The conditions regulating school placement have also been described in those studies. In the City of Buenos Aires, information is known only for mainstream schools. Objective: To determine the prevalence and characteristics of epilepsy in special schools and to compare results with common primary education settings. Design and Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out in special schools in the City of Buenos Aires, by adopting the same definitions, diagnostic criteria and questionnaire as those used in a previous study in the common primary school population. Responses from 1,682 children, aged 6–16 years, residing in the City of Buenos Aires, with mental retardation, visual or hearing impairment, psychiatric disorders and motor disabilities were analyzed. Results: A total of 121 children with epilepsy were detected. Lifetime prevalence was 71.9‰ and active prevalence was 64.8‰ (22–25 times greater than rates in mainstream schools). Prevalence was highest in girls and generalized seizures prevailed over other seizure types. Ninety-two percent of cases received antiepileptic drugs, 57.9% as a single drug treatment and 85.1% in adequate doses. Only 56% of the children with a diagnosis of epilepsy proved to be true-positive cases, and almost 40% received antiepileptic drugs for nonepileptic disorders. Malformations/degenerative disease were the most common etiology. Conclusions: Special schools contain clusters of children with epilepsy as a comorbid condition. False high frequency is due to misdiagnoses and unnecessary treatments. These schools are an important target for educational interventions.
Downmodulatory Effects of the Antihistaminic Drug Bepotastine on Cytokine/Chemokine Production and CD54 Expression in Human Keratinocytes
Authors: Kobayashi M. , Kabashima K. , Nakamura M. , Tokura Y.
Published: December 2008

Bepotastine besilate is an antihistaminic drug of the second generation with superior clinical responses. In this study, we investigated whether bepotastine modulates the production of cytokines/chemokines and the expression of CD54 in human epidermal keratinocytes. The production of IL-1α, CXCL10, and CCL17 and the expression of CD54 were significantly suppressed by the addition of bepotastine. Bepotastine exerts its antiallergic action on keratinocytes by suppressing the production of certain proinflammatory cytokines, both Th1 and Th2 chemokines, and possibly by inhibiting the expression of CD54.
Safety and Outcome after Thrombolysis in Stroke Patients with Mild Symptoms
Authors: Köhrmann M. , Nowe T. , Huttner H.B. , Engelhorn T. , Struffert T. , Kollmar R. , Saake M. , Doerfler A. , Schwab S. , Schellinger P.D.
Published: December 2008

Background: Thrombolytic therapy is frequently withheld in patients with minor stroke symptoms. However, recent studies demonstrate that a substantial proportion of these patients dies or remains permanently disabled because of underestimation of symptom severity at baseline or secondary deterioration. We aimed to assess the safety and outcome of thrombolysis therapy in patients with minor but disabling stroke symptoms. Methods: 32 patients presenting with mild symptoms were treated with intravenous recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator between April 2006 and April 2008. Data were extracted from a prospectively collected database. Baseline demographic data, and clinical, laboratory and imaging findings were analyzed. Outcome was assessed using the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score at 3 months and was dichotomized into favorable (mRS 0–1) versus unfavorable (mRS 2–6). Results: In the majority of patients, the left hemisphere was affected, with aphasia representing the most common symptom leading to treatment decision. The frequency of perfusion lesion (46%) and vessel occlusion (35%) at baseline was high but had no effect on the outcome at 3 months in our series of treated patients. Outcome was favorable in 94% of patients, and 47% recovered without any persisting symptom. Only one asymptomatic and no symptomatic hemorrhage was observed. Conclusion: Our data support current guidelines and international licenses which give no lower National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) limit for intravenous thrombolysis (IVT). Considering the accumulating evidence that the natural course in patients with mild symptoms is not as favorable as often assumed and taking the low risk of bleeding in those patients into account, patients with mild but disabling symptoms should be treated with IVT regardless of their baseline NIHSS score.
Common Variants in Interleukin-1-Beta Gene Are Associated with Intracranial Hemorrhage and Susceptibility to Brain Arteriovenous Malformation
Authors: Kim Helen , Hysi Pirro G. , Pawlikowska Ludmila , Poon Annie , Burchard Esteban González , Zaroff Jonathan G. , Sidney Stephen , Ko Nerissa U. , Achrol Achal S. , Lawton Michael T. , McCulloch Charles E. , Kwok Pui-Yan , Young William L.
Published: December 2008

Background: Polymorphisms in the proinflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)-1β gene have been associated with systemic atherogenesis, thrombosis and rupture. The aim of this study was to investigate associations between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in IL-1β and intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) in the natural course of brain arteriovenous malformation (BAVM) patients. Method: Two IL-1β promoter SNPs (–511C→T, –31T→C) and 1 synonymous coding SNP in exon 5 at +3953C→T (Phe) were genotyped in 410 BAVM patients. We performed a survival analysis of time to subsequent ICH, censoring cases at first treatment, death or last follow-up. A Cox regression analysis was performed to obtain hazard ratios (HRs) for genotypes adjusted for age, sex, Caucasian race/ethnicity and hemorrhagic presentation. Results: Subjects with the –31 CC genotype (HR = 2.7; 95% CI 1.1–6.6; p = 0.029) or the –511 TT genotype (HR = 2.6; 95% CI 1.1–6.5; p = 0.039) had a greater risk of subsequent ICH compared with reference genotypes, adjusting for covariates. The +3953C→T SNP was not significantly associated with an increased ICH risk (p = 0.22). The IL-1β promoter polymorphisms were also associated with BAVM susceptibility among a subset of 235 BAVM cases and 255 healthy controls of Caucasian race/ethnicity (p < 0.001). Conclusion: IL-1β promoter polymorphisms were associated with an increased risk of ICH in BAVM clinical course and with BAVM susceptibility. These results suggest that inflammatory pathways, including the IL-1β cytokine, may play an important role in ICH.
Treatment of Gastroparesis: An Update
Authors: Gumaste Vivek , Baum Joel
Published: December 2008

Gastroparesis is a chronic disorder of gastric motility that is characterized by delayed emptying of either solids or liquids from the stomach in the absence of any mechanical obstruction. Nausea, vomiting, early satiety and bloating are some of the manifestations of gastroparesis. Idiopathic, diabetes mellitus and postsurgical states account for the majority of cases. Gastroparesis is a difficult condition to treat. Prokinetic drugs like metoclopramide and erythromycin form the mainstay of therapy but are less than ideal. Some patients may benefit from endoscopic botolinium toxin injection. Gastric electrical stimulation, though promising, is not ready for prime time yet.
Safety and Driving Ability following Low-Dose Propofol Sedation
Authors: Horiuchi Akira , Nakayama Yoshiko , Katsuyama Yoshihiko , Ohmori Shigeru , Ichise Yasuyuki , Tanaka Naoki
Published: December 2008

Background and Aim: Automobile driving is prohibited after midazolam sedation because of the slow recovery of psychomotor function. This study prospectively assessed the safety of low-dose propofol sedation (study 1) and compared driving ability following propofol and midazolam sedation (study 2). Methods: Study 1: We prospectively investigated bolus injection of a low-dose of propofol (40–80 mg for <70 years and 30 mg for ≥70 years) for diagnostic esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). Respiratory depression, time to full recovery, and overall patient satisfaction were evaluated and blood concentrations of propofol were measured. Study 2: A subset of subjects undergoing diagnostic EGD were randomized to receive 40 mg of propofol (n = 30), 4 mg of midazolam (n = 30) or no sedation controls (n = 20), and the residual effects of each drug were tested using a driving simulator. The primary outcome measure was driving ability. The second outcome measures were overall patient satisfaction and complications. Results: Study 1: Only 1.1% of 12,031 healthy subjects developed transient oxygen desaturation. Full recovery was present in 97.5% 30 min after the procedure; 99.8% were willing to repeat the same procedure. The blood levels of propofol (40–80 mg) at 60 min were <100 ng/ml. Study 2: Driving ability recovered to the basal level within 60 min of propofol administration but not with 120 min with midazolam. There were no complications; overall patient satisfaction was similar between propofol and midazolam (8.9 vs. 8.5, p = 0.34). Conclusion: Low-dose propofol sedation was safe and recovery including driving ability was with 60 min.
The Missing Link – Light-Induced (280–1,600 nm) Free Radical Formation in Human Skin
Authors: Zastrow L. , Groth N. , Klein F. , Kockott D. , Lademann J. , Renneberg R. , Ferrero L.
Published: December 2008

The recent European recommendation on the efficacy of sunscreen products requests now a minimum ratio of UVA/UVB protection. However, the visible and the infrared (IR) parts of the sun spectrum have received little attention concerning their possible contribution to skin damage. A common biophysical answer for the different wavelengths of the sun spectrum can be found in the creation of excess free radicals – mainly reactive oxygen species (ROS). Thanks to electron spin resonance spectroscopy applied to skin biopsies, we determined for the first time the free radical action spectrum covering UV and visible light (280–700 nm). Convolution of the action spectrum with sunlight spectral irradiance showed that 50% of the total skin oxidative burden was generated by visible light. Creation of ROS by visible light was experimentally confirmed by varying the illuminance of a spotlight. We also evidenced the creation of excess free radicals by near-IR radiation. In that case, free radical generation does not depend exclusively on the dose, but also on the skin temperature increase initiated by near-IR light. Some phenomena which are still unclear, such as the question about the deleterious or beneficial role of sunlight, are reviewed, implying the research on new protection strategies for the prevention of skin cancer.
Central Ghrelin Affects Pituitary-Thyroid Axis: Histomorphological and Hormonal Study in Rats
Authors: Šošić-Jurjević Branka , Stevanović Darko , Milošević Verica , Sekulić Milka , Starčević Vesna
Published: December 2008

Body weight depends on the balance between energy intake and consumption. An interaction between ghrelin and thyroid function has been reported only in pathophysiological states. We examined whether intracerebroventricular (ICV) administration of ghrelin affects the structure and function of the pituitary-thyroid axis in young adult male rats. Ghrelin (0.3 nmol/5 μl PBS) or an equal volume of PBS were injected every 24 h into the lateral cerebral ventricle for 5 days. Two hours after the last treatment the animals were killed, their pituitaries and thyroids excised and prepared for further histological, immunohistochemical and morphometric investigation. Serum TSH levels were measured by RIA, while the total T4 and T3 levels were examined by ECLIA. Ghrelin treatment increased pituitary weight (p < 0.05) when compared to the controls, with no effect on the thyroid weight. Smaller, degranulated TSH-immunopositive cells were noticed within the pituitaries of ghrelin-treated animals; their cellular and nuclear volume as well as the relative volume density of thyrotrophs decreased (p < 0.05) in comparison to the control values. The level of serum TSH was reduced (p < 0.05). In the thyroid parenchyma of ghrelin-treated rats, an increased number of hypofunctioning follicles was noticed, characterized by flattened, weakly Tg-immunoreactive epithelium and colloid distension. The relative volume densities of the follicles and colloid increased (p < 0.05), while the thyroid index of activation rate and the serum level of total T4 decreased (p < 0.05). In conclusion, centrally applied ghrelin modulated the immunohistomorphometric features of pituitary TSH cells and decreased the level of serum TSH, consequently changing thyroid morphology and function, by reducing the T4 hormone level in the serum.
C-Flex® Technology: Effects on Breathing Parameters and Inspiratory Flow Limitation
Authors: Canisius Sebastian , Kesper Karl , Jerrentrup Lukas , Ploch Thomas , Vogelmeier Claus , Penzel Thomas , Jerrentrup Andreas
Published: December 2008

Background: Expiratory pressure relief continuous positive airway pressure (pressure relief CPAP, C-Flex®) is known to be as effective in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) as conventional CPAP while improving overall patients’ adherence. However, the effects of C-Flex on ventilation during sleep have not been studied yet. Objective: This study investigates the effects of pressure relief CPAP on respiratory parameters and possible inspiratory flow limitation with increased difference between inspiratory and expiratory pressure compared with conventional CPAP. Methods: In total, 24 patients were investigated both during conventional CPAP and during three C-Flex pressure relief settings in randomized order during rapid-eye-movement (REM) and non-REM (NREM) sleep. Airflow was monitored with a pneumotachograph; inspiratory flow limitation was assessed by analyzing airflow and esophageal pressure swings. Results: Using higher C-Flex gains, expiratory time decreased in favor of the inspiratory duty cycle while there was no significant change in tidal volume. Analysis of inspiratory flow limitation showed no significant difference between conventional CPAP and the C-Flex gains studied. Conclusions: The increase in the inspiratory duty cycle with C-Flex might either indicate an increase in the work of breathing or a decrease in the work of breathing due to a lower peak end-expiratory pressure and consecutive alleviation of passive expiration. Both treatments appeared equivalent regarding the occurrence of inspiratory flow limitation.
Stimulation of Toll-Like Receptor 2 in Human Platelets Induces a Thromboinflammatory Response Through Activation of Phosphoinositide 3-Kinase
Authors: Blair Price , Rex Sybille , Vitseva Olga , Beaulieu Lea , Tanriverdi Kahraman , Chakrabarti Subrata , Hayashi Chie , Genco Caroline A. , Iafrati Mark , Freedman Jane E.
Published: December 2008

Cells of the innate immune system use Toll-like receptors (TLRs) to initiate the proinflammatory response to microbial infection. Recent studies have shown acute infections are associated with a transient increase in the risk of vascular thrombotic events. Although platelets play a central role in acute thrombosis and accumulating evidence demonstrates their role in inflammation and innate immunity, investigations into the expression and functionality of platelet TLRs have been limited. In the present study, we demonstrate that human platelets express TLR2, TLR1, and TLR6. Incubation of isolated platelets with Pam
3
CSK4, a synthetic TLR2/TLR1 agonist, directly induced platelet aggregation and adhesion to collagen. These functional responses were inhibited in TLR2-deficient mice and, in human platelets, by pretreatment with TLR2-blocking antibody. Stimulation of platelet TLR2 also increased P-selectin surface expression, activation of integrin α
IIb
β
3
, generation of reactive oxygen species, and, in human whole blood, formation of platelet–neutrophil heterotypic aggregates. TLR2 stimulation also activated the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3-K)/Akt signaling pathway in platelets, and inhibition of PI3-K significantly reduced Pam
3
CSK4-induced platelet responses. In vivo challenge with live
Porphyromonas gingivalis
, a Gram-negative pathogenic bacterium that uses TLR2 for innate immune signaling, also induced significant formation of platelet–neutrophil aggregates in wild-type but not TLR2-deficient mice. Together, these data provide the first demonstration that human platelets express functional TLR2 capable of recognizing bacterial components and activating the platelet thrombotic and/or inflammatory pathways. This work substantiates the role of platelets in the immune and inflammatory response and suggests a mechanism by which bacteria could directly activate platelets.
When Jesus met Mohammed in the Holy Land: Attitudes toward the “Other” in the Crusader Kingdom
Authors: Menache Sophia
Published: December 2008

This paper investigates changing attitudes toward the “other” in the Crusader Kingdom of Jerusalem from two main perspectives; namely, the crusaders' approach to the former inhabitants of the Holy Land and the degree to which those former Occidentals became Orientals and created a new identity. Taking into account the first encounter with Islam, this paper investigates the emotional aspects of the meeting between Latins and Muslims from the perspective of those Christians who came to the Holy Land, whether as crusaders, settlers of a more permanent nature, or pilgrims. Historical contextualization allows a more suitable analytical and theoretical perspective of the intricate emotional spectrum that was inherent in the history of the Crusader Kingdom. The Latins use of the Augustinian emotional index transformed negative attitudes toward the Muslims into an act of illusionary inclusion in order to exclude. This inverted inclusion meant that within its inner discourse, Christian society had defeated the Muslims symbolically, regardless of the outcome on the battlefield—a denial of reality that served to exclude the Easterners altogether. The inverted inclusion of the Muslims became the last step on the long march of both acknowledging and, at the same time, erasing the infidel, for it was Christianity that defined the cultural boundaries of the West.
Delayed ReinForcement of Classroom Behavior by Parents
Authors: Sluyter David J. , Hawkins Robert P.
Published: December 2008

A delayed reinforcement technique was used to modify the behavior of three public school children. Academic class standing was modified in two of the children and talking out of turn and inattention were modified in the third child. A reinforcer consisting of a note signed by the teacher stating that the child had done well was dispensed after school whenever criteria levels of performance were met. The effects of this type of feedback were assessed under the following conditions: (1) the child receives a note and returns it to the teacher (child feedback) (2) the child receives a note and shows it to his parents (child-parent feedback) and (3) the child shows the note to his parents who provide reinforcers in the home (reinforcement.) The most marked improvement in behavior occurred during the reinforcement condition in all cases. The results are discussed in terms of the effectiveness of delayed reinforcement and in terms of the effects of feedback to the student, or to the student and his parents.
implications of the Purdue Pegboard As a Screening Device
Authors: Kane Joan , Gill Richard P.
Published: December 2008

This study examines the effectiveness of the Purdue Pegboard Test in discriminating children with learning disabilities. Two groups of children, a total of 195, were tested with the Pegboard and were classified into levels of intelligence, emotional stability, reading retardation, and learning disability. While the study tends to support previous research, data are insufficient recommend the inclusion of this test in any test bettery as a diagnostic instrument. The study also suggests that the Pegboard may have value as a simple and objective measure in determining benefits accrued in a class for children with learning disabilities.
Visual Sequential Memory in Reading Disability
Authors: Guthrie John T. , Goldberg Herman K.
Published: December 2008

Relationships between visual sequential memory and reading in 81 normal and 43 disabled readers were investigated. The children had normal intelligence and a mean reading grade of 2.5. The mean chronological age of the normals was 8.5 years, and the mean of the disabled was 10.3. Partial correlations between three tests of visual sequential memory and three tests of reading were computed. Significant, positive associations were identified between visual sequential memory and paragraph comprehension, oral reading and word recognition. The intercorrelations of the visual memory tests were moderate indicating that these tests do not measure identical abilities. The results suggest that reading disability may derive from the lack of coordination among three different visual memory functions which are required for reading.
The Use of Language Samples in a Clinical Setting
Authors: Tyack Dorothy
Published: December 2008

This paper presents a method for collecting and analyzing language samples from children with language problems. Data from the samples can be used clinically in three ways: as part of a diagnostic evaluation; as a basis for specific remedial language programs; and as measures of progress throughout remediation.
Comparison or Perceptuol Training and Remedial Instruction for Poor Beginning Readers
Authors: Belmont Ira , Flegenheimer Hannah , Birch Herbert G.
Published: December 2008

Two matched groups of beginning readers with equivalent degrees of risk for reading failure were provided, respectively, with supplementary perceptual training or remedial instruction using letters and words, in addition to receiving regular first grade classroom instruction. After 7 months of supplementary instruction, both groups had made equivalent advances in reading level, indicating that neither perceptual training nor remedial reading was the superior program.
Linguistic and Nonlinguistic Competing Message Effects
Authors: Lasky Elaine Z. , Tobin Henry
Published: December 2008

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of competing auditory stimuli on the performance of children with learning disabilities as compared to the performance of normal children. Two groups of first gradE children were tested individually on three tasks under four listening conditions: (1) in quiet, (2) in 74 dB SPL broad band white noise (0 dB S/N), (3) in 64 dB SPL linguistic competing messages (+10 dB S/N), and (4) in 74 dB SPL linguistic competing messages (0 dB S/N). The recorded instructions for tasks I and II were delivered through a loudspeaker in front of the child at 0° azimuth. Three loudspeakers arrayed behind the child at azimuths of 135°, 180°, and 225° delivered competing auditory messages. The findings were: (1) linguistic competing auditory messages interfered with the performance of children with suspected learning disabilities but did not interfere with the performance of normal children; (2) competing auditory messages that are nonlinguistic did not interfere with the performance of either group.
Analysis of a Foiling Attempt at Behavior Modification
Authors: Fine Marvin J. , Nesbitt John A. , Tyler Milton M.
Published: December 2008

Most of the reports of behavior modification in the classroom are "success" stories, with relatively little attention payed to the problems in implementing the program. This article is a postmortem of a failing attempt at behavior modification and includes the identification as well as discussion of some important conditions necessary for success. Among the variables identified are teacher acceptance of the program, interfering aspects of the teacher-child relationship, adherence by the teacher to a systematic program, and the importance of the psychologist consultative role.
Syntactic Abilities in Normal and Dyslexic Children
Authors: Vogel Susan A.
Published: December 2008

Syntactic abilities in oral language of 20 normal and 20 dyslexic second graders were assessed. Group membership was determined on the basis of performance on two silent reading comprehension tests. Nine measures were used to assess syntactic abilities; none required reading or writing. The dyslectics were found to be different from the normal children at a high level of significance on seven of the nine measures, all favoring the normals. The dyslexic children were significantly deficient in oral syntax. The findings indicate the importance of assessing oral syntax in the evaluation and diagnosis of children with reading difficulties.
programs, materials and techniques
Authors: Bannatyne Alex
Published: December 2008

There is a wide variety of programs, books, materials and topics this month - something for everyone. Teachers will need Richard Thompson's Energizers for Reading Instruction, while some pediatricians should look into The Teacher's and Doctor's Guide to a Practical Approach to Learning Problems. Speech and language teachers as well as diagnosticians should read the Northwestern Syntax Screening Test by Laura Lee, whose book was reviewed last month. Operations and Spell-N-Meld are two books for LD children who enjoy card games, while Simulations is an extremely valuable activity method that / feel should be adopted by all teachers. Math teachers should examine Math Helper by Hulda Clark, research workers will be interested in Feed-Back Monitors and diagnostic teams will like the breadth and depth of the eleven Wunder-Forms. Program compilers will need the Computational Analysis of Present-day American English for those all-important, frequently used words, while / make good use of it with those Vocabulary Deficient Spanish-Speaking Children of affluent families that / discuss in my own paper.
Consrruct Validity of the Illinois Test of Psycholinguistic Abilities
Authors: Newcomer Phyllis , Hare Betty , Hammill Donald , McGettigan James
Published: December 2008

The construct validity of the ITPA was investigated by factor analyzing the subtests with 20 criterion tests that were designed either to match the subtests on each psycholinguistic variable but vary in content, or to differ in channel of communication but match in all other respects. Construct validity was determined by the degree to which each subtest measured discrete, independent abilities and the extent to which these abilities represented the constructs of the Osgood model of language behavior. Results generally confirmed the construct validity of the test. Nine of the subtests measured discrete abilities, and two dimensions of the underlying model, i.e., level and process, were substantiated. The channel of communication, particularly the visual modality, constitutes the greatest threat to validity.
Developmental Considerations in the Management of Language Disabled Children
Authors: Leonard Laurence B.
Published: December 2008

Since recent work in the study of normal language acquisition has suggested that children initially acquire basic grammatical relations which reflect important perceptions in the child's environment, a preliminary investigation was undertaken in an effort to determine the appropriateness of teaching certain aspects of grammar through a developmental sequence to children with language learning disabilities. Through a counterbalanced design, children were taught the use of grammatical structures (7) with a sequence representing a response hierarchy parelleling the normal child's acquisition of the structure, and (2) with a sequence with a response hierarchy based on increasing length. Results indicated significantly greater post-training use of the grammatical structures with the developmental sequence. In addition, the general success of the employed teaching approach suggested that certain children may have difficulty treating perceived structures as significant features of language and incorporating such features into their speech.
The Identification of High-Risk Children: A Retrospective Look at Selection Criteria
Authors: Badian Nathlie A. , Serwer Blanche L.
Published: December 2008

Three-hundred kindergarten children were screened with a test battery in order to identify high-risk children. The main principle underlying the selection criteria was Myklebust's definition of a learning disability as a discrepancy between achievement (as measured by a readiness test and knowledge of letter names) and potential. Other selection criteria were a discrepancy between verbal and nonverbal ability, intratest scatter, and performance on a visual-motor copying test. Sixty-two children were selected as having probable learning disabilities. At the beginning of first grade, they were tested with the WISC and the ITPA and showed average abilities. At the end of first grade these "high-risk" children scored within the average range on the Metropolitan Achievement Test. It was concluded that the selection criteria in kindergarten were inadequate.
programs, materials and techniques
Authors: Brown Virginia
Published: December 2008

The column this month is a roundup of various materials and reviews that have been submitted, as well as responses to some requests for resources for special problems. The topics are varied, and the interest levels are from preschool through secondary and from school to home.

Dorothy Tyack and Robert Gottsleben have written a handbook titled Language Sampling, Analysis, and Training. It is reviewed by Tom Longhurst. The film Santa Monica Project is reviewed by Hannah Elsas Miller. A description is provided of the currently available Social Studies Curriculum Analysis Short Form, published by the National Council for the Social Studies. Classroom Projects Using Photography, with Tools and Tips to Help You contains suggestions both for elementary and for secondary projects. A. Dean Hendrickson reviews three new books that are useful in the area of mathematics instruction. One deals with diagnosis; one with the area of early childhood; and the third with secondary level math instruction. A Job Placement Handbook by Alan E. Brooker is reviewed as worthwhile unpublished material at the secondary and young adult levels. A new Report # 69/70 from the EPIE Institute identifies, analyzes, and evaluates 18 of the most frequently used programs in school mathematics. (Check to see if your program is listed.) From BOCES of Nassau County, N. Y., comes a collection of 200 Ways to Help Children Learn While You're at It. It was developed for parents and teachers of young children. Change for Children is suggested as a catalog of ideas for teachers who wish to expand their repertoire of ideas for the individualization of classroom instruction. Mauree Applegate's classic language arts text, Easy in English, is revisited to remind teachers and parents of the wealth of assistance available for helping the learning disabled student learn to write - and like it! If you are interested in becoming a reviewer of materials for this column, or if you've written a review of a program or technique you'd like us to consider for publication, please write Dr. Virginia Brown, College of Education, Kansas State University, Holton Hall, Manhattan 66506.
A New Approach to the Interpretation of Test Scatter on the WISC-R
Authors: Kaufman Alan S.
Published: December 2008

Scatter among the WISC-R Verbal, Performance and Full Scale tests was investigated for the standardization sample (N=2200). Two indices of test scatter were analyzed: scaled-score range (a child's highest minus his lowest scaled score), and the number of tests deviating by 3 or more points from his own mean. No meaningful fluctuations in the indices were apparent when they were computed separately by age, sex, race, parental occupation, or intelligence level. Another major finding was that the WISC-R profiles of normal children exhibit much scatter, probably more than most test users realize. Normative tables were developed to enable the clinician, and the researcher, to evaluate more scientifically the test scatter for an exceptional individual or group.
Relationship of IQ and Reading Score to Visual, Spatial, and Temporal Matching Tasks
Authors: Rudel Rita G. , Denckla Martha B.
Published: December 2008

Intersensory integration has been extensively explored in relation to reading and its developmental anomalies. Since matching across sensory modalities also involves different modes of presentation (auditory-sequential vs. visual-spatial), we tested the ability of normal and learning disabled children to match spatially arranged patterns of dots as well as sequences of light flashes within a single modality, vision. Normal and experimental subjects found it easiest to match spatial patterns with each other, and that task did not distinguish between the two groups. The other tasks were more difficult for both, particularly when sequential flashes of light were presented first and had to be matched to other flashes of light or to a spatial pattern. On these tasks the performance of normal children was significantly better than that of the learning disabled. Only the condition which required matching from sequence to pattern correlated with reading age among the learning disabled: possibly it is a process similar to word blending. Only those matching tasks which involved sequencing (the temporal display of flashes) correlated with WISC Performance and Full Scale IQ, while none of them correlated with WISC Verbal IQ. The oldest normal subjects performed better on all the tasks than younger ones, particularly surpassing younger children on matching a temporal standard and a spatial comparison. The oldest learning disabled children did not perform significantly better than the youngest.
Cognitive, Academic, and Behavioral Findings in Children with Suspected and Documented Neurological Dysfunction
Authors: Black F. William
Published: December 2008

Intellectual, perceptual, academic, and behavioral comparisons were made for matched samples of elementary school children with suspected and documented neurological dysfunction. Significant differences were obtained between samples on most intellectual (WISC) variables, with all comparisons favoring the suspected neurological dysfunction sample. The samples did not differ appreciably on perceptual, academic, and two of three behavioral variables, suggesting that the pattern of performance for the two samples in areas highly relevant for education wus similar. WISC Verbal-Performance discrepancies exceeding 15 points were relatively good predictors of documented neurological dysfunction.
Comparison of Patterns of Mother-Child Interaction
Authors: Doleys Daniel M. , Cartelli Lora M. , Doster Jeanette
Published: December 2008

Behavioral observations obtained from mother-child interactions were compared for three groups of mother-child pairs: (1) nonclinic, normal children; (2) noncompliant children; (3) children identified as learning disabled. The mothers of children with learning disabilities dispensed more rewards and asked more questions than the mothers in the other two groups. In addition, data from an attitude scale revealed that the mothers of the learning disabled children perceived their children to have more behavioral and adjustment problems than did the mothers of the nonclinic children, but to have fewer problems than the mothers of clinic children judged their children to have. The relationship of these data to the overall development of the child with a learning disability and their utility in parent training and counseling programs are discussed.
Achievement Motivation and the Locus of Control of Children with Learning Disabilities and Behavior Disorders
Authors: Hisama T.
Published: December 2008

The Children's Locus of Control Scale was administered to 48 children with learning and behavior problems and 48 normal children. No significant difference in performance was found. The experimental group, divided randomly into three groups, was given Digit Symbol, Coding, and NIM Test under three different motivational conditions. The data analysis revealed the following: (1) On the Coding Test, the performance of the group with higher scores on the CLCS was significantly better than that of the group with lower scores (p <.01). (2) On the Digit Symbol Test, an interaction effect between the level of locus of control and success-failure experience was found (p <.05). Implications of the findings and suggestions for further research are discussed.
Learning Disability: The Need for Medical Research
Authors: McElgunn Barbara
Published: December 2008

The emphasis on educational and behavioral management of children with learning disabilities is evidenced in the type and volume of current research in the field. It is of great concern to future progress for these children that their neurological, biochemical, and nutritional status not be overlooked. There is also an urgent need for universally accepted diagnostic tools to enable the very earliest recognition of children with minimal neurological deficits. The medical profession has a fundamental, but presently abdicated, role to play in producing concrete research results for these children.
Modality Preference and the Teaching of Reading: A Review
Authors: Tarver Sara G. , Dawson Margaret M.
Published: December 2008

Teaching to a child's strengths versus improving areas of weakness has long been a key concept in remedial planning for many practitioners. Strengths and weaknesses have often been related to sensory modality capabilities resulting in the notion of auditory learners, visual learners, and learners needing haptic and kinesthetic feedback. This excellent review of research which assesses the validity of the modality strength concept finds strikingly little support; thus, practical wisdom is not supported by research data. Because the modality preference/strength concept has intuitive appeal and is apparently useful to many practitioners, the possibility certainly exists that the research is inadequately designed or insufficiently sensitive to validate this central principle. Comments regarding the methods of the studies and the conclusions of this review are invited from practitioners and researchers. — G.M.S.
A Look at Reading Comprehension
Authors: Van Etten Glen
Published: December 2008

This complex area deserves more intensive study than it has received in the past. We hope this material will provide stimulation toward this end. The editors have called upon Dr. Glen Van Etten for assistance in analyzing some of the literature on reading comprehension.

Following his review, two instructional programs designed to develop reading comprehension are examined by the editors. The two programs vary greatly in content, format, and levels of skills that are taught. Both, however, have aspects that make them worthy of consideration by teachers of learning disabled students. — C.V.E., B.W.
The Individualized Education Program - Part 1: Procedural Guidelines
Authors: Turnbull Ann P. , Strickland Bonnie , Hammer Susan E.
Published: December 2008

This two-part article gives a concise description of the PL 94-142 regulations. Part 1 has suggestions for implementing the regulations and Part 2 regards the components of an Individualized Education Program (IEP). The legal requirements are reviewed and step-by-step procedures described for legal compliance, for developing useful IEPs, and for effective administration. No official government endorsement was sought or is implied though the overview is believed to be accurate and authoritative. — G.M.S.
Family Consequences of Parental Dyslexia
Authors: Klein Lenkowsky Linda , Saposnek Donald T.
Published: December 2008

There exists a growing awareness of the problems surrounding learning disabilities in adults (see Silberberg and Silberberg's Guest Editorial in this issue). Just as learning problems affect nonacademic aspects of a child's life, so do they affect an adult's life. Little research exists on adults with learning disabilities. This case study should serve to sensitize clinicians to the potential family problems which may accompany an adult's learning disability. — G.M.S.