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PATHOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF CDH1/E-CADHERIN GERMLINE SEQUENCE VARIANTS IN BREAST CANCER PATIENTS. Exp Oncol 2023; 45:170-179. [PMID: 37824775 DOI: 10.15407/exp-oncology.2023.02.170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Germline alterations of the CDH1 (E-cadherin) tumor suppressor gene have been reported in several epithelial malignancies like hereditary diffuse gastric cancer and lobular breast cancer. E-cadherin plays a central role in proliferation, maintenance of cell-to-cell adhesion, polarity, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition of tissue cells. It is necessary to analyze the impact of the CDH1 germline sequence variants on protein and predict its clinical significance in breast cancer (BC) progression. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the impact and association of CDH1 gene potentially pathogenic variants/likely pathogenic variants (PVs/LPVs) with the initiation and progression of BC. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this study, the clinical data of 200 BC patients have been analyzed based on the type of BC, age, grade, stage, hormonal status, and risk factors. Blood samples from 50 healthy donors were used as a control. Furthermore, CDH1 gene molecular analysis, along with in silico analysis, was provided to assess the invasiveness and progression of BC caused by the E-cadherin protein. RESULTS Four variants were identified by genetic screening within the CDH1 gene that included variations in exons 7, 8, 10, 11, and 13. Exon 10 had splice site mutation at position c.1337C>A, affecting the protein structure. In exon 11, there was an insertion of T base at position 1669, resulting in truncated protein compared to a normal one that can lead to the disease-causing non- sense-mediated decay and exon 13 variant c.2076T>C has already known polymorphism. In silico analysis of CDH1 showed the presence of the different variants that indicated the overall disruption of protein structure and function. CONCLUSIONS The further functional analysis of these variants and their association with BC can be ensured by increasing the sample size and in vivo studies using mouse models.
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The Effect of Weaning Practices on the Nutritional and Health Status of Saudi Preschool Children. Cureus 2023; 15:e47273. [PMID: 38022371 PMCID: PMC10655934 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.47273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Weaning is a complex procedure that gradually introduces complementary foods to the baby's diet. Solid food should be started between the ages of 6 and 12 months. Weaning is a challenging and crucial stage in an infant's development. Extreme caution should be used during weaning an infant because delaying it can cause issues like sluggish growth, difficulties feeding, malnutrition, and iron deficiency. Objective The current study aims to determine the impact of delayed or early weaning practices on the nutritional status of preschool children in Saudi Arabia. Data was gathered about the time of complementary food introduction, preferred foods in the initial stages, and a child's health compared to those practices. Methodology By convenient sampling, a cross-sectional study was conducted to gather data from 385 parents of Saudi children at preschool age. Questionnaires were shared online. Data were recorded and analyzed on IBM Corp. Released 2012. IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 21.0. Armonk, NY: IBM Corp. Descriptive analysis and multivariate ANOVA (MANOVA) tests were performed. Results Only 6.23% of the infants were introduced to complimentary food at optimal age (6 to 12 months), whereas 85% were found to have delayed weaning. As per the BMI, 74.4% of preschool children were severely underweight, 53.6% of infants consumed pureed vegetables early during weaning, and 64% of infants were introduced to eggs and cheese within the first year of life. The timing, pattern, and food items of weaning had a significant (p<0.05) impact on general physical health, as 48.8% of children had pale skin, 46.9% felt tired, 36.5% had swollen joints, and 42% complained of itching and an upset stomach. Conclusion This study couldn't define the direction of significance. Further studies can be done on a larger scale where biochemical tests, and screening can be done on children to find if any significant health problem is prevailing, and the direction of association can be defined.
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Managing Minds at Work: development of a digital line manager training programme. Eur J Public Health 2022. [DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckac130.209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Mental ill health is the leading cause of sickness absence with high economic burden. Workplace interventions aimed at supporting employers with prevention of mental ill-health in the workforce are urgently required. Managing Minds at Work (MMW) is a digital intervention targeting support for line managers in any work setting to promote better mental health at work through a preventative approach.
Objectives
To describe the design and development of the MMW digital training programme, prior to feasibility testing. We adopted a collaborative participatory design involving co-design (users as partners) and principles of user-centred design (pilot and usability testing). Agile methodology was used to co-create intervention content with a stakeholder community of practice. Development processes were mapped to core elements of the Medical Research Council (MRC) framework for developing and evaluating complex interventions.
Results
The program covers five broad areas: (i) promoting self-care techniques among line managers; (ii) designing work to prevent work-related stress; (iii) management competencies to prevent and reduce stress; (iv) having conversations with employees about mental health; (v) building a psychologically safe work environment. Pilot and usability testing (n = 37 surveys) aligned with the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) demonstrated that MMW was perceived to be useful, relevant, and easy to use by managers across sectors, organization types and sizes. We identified positive impacts on manager attitudes and behavioural intentions related to preventing mental ill-health and promoting good mental well-being at work.
Conclusions
MMW is a digital training programme for line managers that has been co-created using rigorous development processes and aims to support employers with primary prevention in mental health. The next step is to explore the feasibility and acceptability of this intervention with line managers in diverse employment settings.
Key messages
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Functional characterization of the cis-regulatory region for the vitellogenin gene in Plutella xylostella. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2020; 29:137-147. [PMID: 31850544 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 11/23/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The vitellogenin gene promoter (VgP) is an essential cis-regulatory element that plays a significant role in transcription of the vitellogenin (Vg) gene, leading to the production of yolk protein in insects, including lepidopterans. However, the function of VgP is still not clear in Plutella xylostella. Here, we cloned a 5.1 kb DNA fragment of the cis-regulatory region adjacent to the 5' end of the Vg gene of P. xylostella (PxVg). We identified two promoter sites in that 5' upstream sequence of PxVg and performed in vitro analysis of two promoter sequences (PxVgP1, 4.9 kb, and PxVgP2, 2.9 kb) in the embryonic cell line of P. xylostella. PxVgP2 exhibited higher enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) expression, so PxVgP2 was used for in vivo analysis. Strong EGFP fluorescence was observed in adult females and the fat body of females, with low expression in embryos. Our results suggest that PxVgP is an important stage-, tissue- and sex-specific endogenous cis-regulatory element in P. xylostella.
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Disclosure of Type 1 diabetes at work among Finnish workers. Diabet Med 2017; 34:115-119. [PMID: 27086666 DOI: 10.1111/dme.13134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2015] [Revised: 02/09/2016] [Accepted: 04/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To determine which self-management factors and psychosocial work factors were associated with disclosing diabetes to colleagues, line managers and occupational health personnel among workers with Type 1 diabetes. METHODS A total of 767 working-aged respondents with Type 1 diabetes completed a Finnish cross-sectional survey named 'People with Type 1 Diabetes in Worklife'. Factor analysis was carried out, followed by logistic regressions to estimate the associations between self-management factors, psychosocial work factors and the likelihood of disclosure separately to colleagues, line managers and occupational health personnel. The models were adjusted for sociodemographic, diabetes-related and work-related variables. RESULTS A total of 52% of the respondents had disclosed their diabetes to their colleagues, 45% to occupational health personnel and 28% to their line manager. Receiving social support and having good psychosocial work ability were significantly associated with disclosure to colleagues, line managers and occupational health personnel. Relations at work were associated with disclosure to colleagues and the line manager. Furthermore, opportunity to self-manage diabetes at work was associated with disclosure to colleagues. CONCLUSIONS Line managers and colleagues have a remarkable role to play in providing workplace support to workers with Type 1 diabetes. Disclosure of Type 1 diabetes should be encouraged as line managers can provide workers with the right support, implement work adaptations and facilitate job retention. As only half of respondents disclosed their Type 1 diabetes at work, further research is required into the reasons for and consequences of not disclosing a diagnosis.
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Iatrogenic Menopause After Treatment for Cervical Cancer. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol) 2016; 28:766-775. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clon.2016.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2016] [Revised: 06/09/2016] [Accepted: 06/13/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Providing NHS staff with height-adjustable workstations and behaviour change strategies to reduce workplace sitting time: protocol for the Stand More AT (SMArT) Work cluster randomised controlled trial. BMC Public Health 2015; 15:1219. [PMID: 26646026 PMCID: PMC4673711 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-015-2532-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2015] [Accepted: 11/19/2015] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND High levels of sedentary behaviour (i.e., sitting) are a risk factor for poor health. With high levels of sitting widespread in desk-based office workers, office workplaces are an appropriate setting for interventions aimed at reducing sedentary behaviour. This paper describes the development processes and proposed intervention procedures of Stand More AT (SMArT) Work, a multi-component randomised control (RCT) trial which aims to reduce occupational sitting time in desk-based office workers within the National Health Service (NHS). METHODS/DESIGN SMArT Work consists of 2 phases: 1) intervention development: The development of the SMArT Work intervention takes a community-based participatory research approach using the Behaviour Change Wheel. Focus groups will collect detailed information to gain a better understanding of the most appropriate strategies, to sit alongside the provision of height-adjustable workstations, at the environmental, organisational and individual level that support less occupational sitting. 2) intervention delivery and evaluation: The 12 month cluster RCT aims to reduce workplace sitting in the University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust. Desk-based office workers (n = 238) will be randomised to control or intervention clusters, with the intervention group receiving height-adjustable workstations and supporting techniques based on the feedback received from the development phase. Data will be collected at four time points; baseline, 3, 6 and 12 months. The primary outcome is a reduction in sitting time, measured by the activPAL(TM) micro at 12 months. Secondary outcomes include objectively measured physical activity and a variety of work-related health and psycho-social measures. A process evaluation will also take place. DISCUSSION This study will be the first long-term, evidence-based, multi-component cluster RCT aimed at reducing occupational sitting within the NHS. This study will help form a better understanding and knowledge base of facilitators and barriers to creating a healthier work environment and contribute to health and wellbeing policy. TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN10967042 . Registered 2 February 2015.
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Psychosocial work environment and leisure-time physical activity: the Stormont Study. Occup Med (Lond) 2015; 65:215-9. [DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqu208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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The impact of colorectal cancer and self-efficacy beliefs on work ability and employment status: a longitudinal study. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2012; 21:634-41. [PMID: 22320237 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2354.2012.01335.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
We examined how colorectal cancer patients' treatment and symptom management impacted perceptions of work ability and subsequent work decisions. Fifty patients completed questionnaires at baseline (post-surgery/pretreatment), 3 months and 6 months. Questionnaires assessed fatigue, depression, quality-of-life (QoL), cancer self-efficacy, job self-efficacy (JSE) and work ability. Factors related to perceived work ability were occupation (β= 0.31, P= 0.0005) and QoL (β= 0.42, P= 0.01) at baseline, treatment type (β=-0.19, P= 0.05) at 3 months, and JSE at 3 months (β= 0.57, P= 0.0005) and 6 months (β= 0.50, P= 0.006). Factors related to being on sick leave were lower levels of JSE (OR = 2.20, 95% CI: 1.17-4.13) at baseline and being employed in a manual occupation (OR = 0.03, 95% CI: 0.00-0.86), and perceived work ability (OR = 3.05, 95% CI: 1.00-12.80) at 6 months. Along with self-assessed work ability at baseline (β= 0.67, P= 0.0005), receiving chemotherapy or a combination of treatments (β=-0.24, P= 0.05) were the strongest predictors of poorer perceptions of follow-up work ability. Self-efficacy beliefs may add to understanding and should be considered in future research.
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Abstract
AIMS To review current occupational health (OH) approaches aimed at maintaining the health and workability of older workers. METHODS A literature review was undertaken to identify articles on OH interventions focused on maintaining the health of older workers (published since 2000). The inclusion criteria included studies that reported interventions aimed specifically at older workers. RESULTS A limited number of interventions targeting older workers were identified. A second literature search was therefore conducted that identified types of workplace interventions that, if used with older workers, may benefit their health, well-being and workability. CONCLUSIONS Very few OH interventions have addressed the health and workability of older workers and there is considerable scope for developing OH provision, which accounts for the needs of the older workforce.
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Employment and the common cancers: correlates of work ability during or following cancer treatment. Occup Med (Lond) 2011; 59:381-9. [PMID: 19692524 DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqp088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS To provide an in-depth review of the impact of cancer and cancer-related issues on work ability for those working during or following cancer treatment. METHODS Of total, 19 papers published between 1999 and 2008 on cancer and work ability were reviewed. RESULTS Studies have shown that most types of cancers result in decreased work ability compared to healthy controls or those with other chronic conditions. Some cancer types have more decreased work ability than other types. Decreased work ability is associated with type of treatment (chemotherapy), treatment-related side-effects (e.g. fatigue) and co-morbidity with other health conditions. For most cancers, work ability improves over time irrespective of age. CONCLUSIONS More longitudinal research is required to fully determine the impact of cancer and its treatment on work ability, occupational health services can help such employees make a full recovery and maintain employment by regularly assessing work ability and working hours so that work adjustment and support can be appropriately tailored.
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The role of communication and support in return to work following cancer-related absence. Psychooncology 2011; 19:1078-85. [PMID: 20014202 DOI: 10.1002/pon.1662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Many cancer survivors experience difficulties returning to work. However, there have been relatively few attempts to understand why problems with employer support and work adjustment occur. This paper aims to extend previous work in two ways: first, through exploring the way in which communication and support at work effect cancer survivors on their return to work and during the post-return period; and second, by drawing on a research sample working in the United Kingdom. METHODS In all, 26 cancer survivors took part in a semi-structured telephone interview. Interviews were transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS The analysis revealed three key findings. First, the central role of communication and support from (and between) occupational health, line managers, and colleagues was highlighted. Second, two discrete processes or periods of return to work were identified: the experience of return to work during the initial period of return and the experiences of post-return to work. Third, during the post-return period, the importance of the delayed impact of cancer on the ability to work, the lack of follow-up and monitoring, and the wear-off effect of empathy and support were highlighted as contributing to return-to-work difficulties. CONCLUSIONS This qualitative study highlights the importance of communication within the workplace with regard to the return-to-work process and the need to provide better support and guidance to cancer survivors, line managers and colleagues. Research is required in delineating how employers without occupational health or human resources support manage the return-to-work process.
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Work-related injury and ill-health among mountaineers in the UK: identifying key factors. Inj Prev 2010. [DOI: 10.1136/ip.2010.029215.60] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Returning to work following cancer: a qualitative exploratory study into the experience of returning to work following cancer. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2007; 16:17-25. [PMID: 17227349 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2354.2007.00729.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 255] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The experience of returning to work following cancer is a largely unknown area of cancer research. This preliminary study aimed to explore the factors that influence decisions about return to work either during or after cancer treatment and to identify the important aspects of returning to work. Qualitative data were collected using individual interviews (n = 19) and two focus groups (n = 4, n = 6), predominantly with breast cancer survivors. Patterns of returning to work were diverse and a variety of reasons influenced work decisions, including financial concerns and regaining normality. Participants also discussed their ability to work, health professionals' advice, side effects, support and adjustments, and attitudes towards work. Although the majority adapted well, a few encountered difficulties on their return. It is evident that more advice is required from health professionals about returning to work, along with reasonable support and adjustments from employers to ensure that cancer survivors are able to successfully reintegrate back into the workforce.
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Abstract
This paper explores the role of self-management of chronic illness at work, as a predictor for self-disclosure. The study reports findings from a survey sent to all staff at a UK university, of which 610 employees reported managing a chronic illness: arthritis, musculoskeletal pain, diabetes, asthma, migraine, heart disease, irritable bowel syndrome and depression. The study found that discrete self-management factors predicted different levels of disclosure: partial self-disclosure (employees informing line managers about the presence of a chronic illness) and full self-disclosure (employees informing line managers how that chronic illness affected them at work). For partial disclosure, a greater reported experience of chronic illness by employees was positively associated with self-disclosure. For full-disclosure, employees were more likely to report disclosure to line managers if they had already disclosed to colleagues, and if they perceived receiving support from their line managers in relation to their chronic illness as important. Except for academics who were least likely to disclose, occupational groups did not emerge as significant predictors for either partial or full disclosure. Except for diabetes, chronic illness itself was not a significant predictor or barrier to self-disclosure. Our findings suggest that chronically ill employees adopt a disclosure strategy specifically related to different self-management needs of chronic illness at work.
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Theory of mind deficits in children with fragile X syndrome. JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY RESEARCH : JIDR 2005; 49:372-378. [PMID: 15817054 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2788.2005.00678.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Given the consistent findings of theory of mind deficits in children with autism, it would be extremely beneficial to examine the profile of theory of mind abilities in other clinical groups such as fragile X syndrome (FXS) and Down syndrome (DS). Aim The aim of the present study was to assess whether boys with FXS are impaired in simple social situations that require them to understand their own and others' mental states - in essence: do they have a 'theory of mind'? METHOD Well-standardized tasks of theory of mind, the location change false belief task and the appearance-reality tasks were employed to examine whether any impairment might be specific to the FXS or part of a more generalized developmental deficit. RESULTS The results suggest that children with FXS do have impairment in theory of mind that is comparable to the deficit reported in other groups with learning disabilities such as DS. However, closer inspection of the impairment between these groups revealed qualitative differences in error types (realist vs. phenomenist), suggestive of atypical development that goes beyond general cognitive delay. CONCLUSION The findings are discussed in terms of the teasing apart of different components of social cognition in order to identify syndrome-specific deficiencies and proficiencies.
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Annotation: Deconstructing the attention deficit in fragile X syndrome: a developmental neuropsychological approach. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2004; 45:1042-53. [PMID: 15257661 DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-7610.2004.t01-1-00297.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fragile X syndrome is one of the world's leading hereditary causes of developmental delay in males. The past decade has witnessed an explosion of research that has begun to unravel the condition at its various levels: from the genetic and brain levels to the cognitive level, and then to the environmental and behavioural levels. Our aim in this review is to attempt to integrate some of the extensive body of knowledge to move the research a step closer to understanding how the dynamics of atypical development can influence the specific cognitive and behavioural end-states frequently observed in children and adolescents with fragile X syndrome. METHODS We conducted a review of the current neuropsychological and neuropsychiatric approaches that have attempted to delineate the pattern of 'spared' and 'impaired' functions associated with the phenotype. RESULTS The profile of findings suggests that fragile X syndrome should not be viewed merely as a catalogue of spared and impaired cognitive functions or modules. Instead, there appears to be a process of almost gradual modularisation whereby cognitive mechanisms become domain specific as a function of development itself (Karmiloff-Smith, 1992). The results of a decade of intense research point towards an early weakness in one or more components of executive control rather than single, static higher-level deficits (e.g., spatial cognition, speech processing). This weakness affects both the development of more complex functions and current performance. CONCLUSIONS The prevailing tendency to interpret developmental disorders in terms of fixed damage to distinct modular functions needs to be reconsidered. We offer this review as an example of an alternative approach, attempting to identify an initial deficit and its consequences for the course of development. Through better definition of the cognitive and behavioural phenotype, in combination with current progress in brain imaging techniques and molecular studies, the next decade should continue to hold exciting promise for fragile X syndrome and other neurodevelopmental disorders.
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[A neuropsychological and behavioural profile of attention deficits in fragile X syndrome]. Rev Neurol 2001; 33 Suppl 1:S24-9. [PMID: 12447815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Fragile X syndrome is a well-recognised cause of developmental delay in males and to a lesser extent females. The aim of the present study was to present a detailed cognitive and behaviour analysis of the core attention impairments frequently associated with fragile X. PATIENTS AND METHODS Two complementary studies were conducted. Study 1 examined the severity and range of behavioural problems in a group of 25 fragile X boys with fragile X compared with five control groups: a learning disabled comparison group (Down's syndrome-Trisomy 21) and four groups of normal developing control children. Two well validated rating scales were used as measures of behaviour: Study 2 examined performance by the above groups on a novel computerised task of attention that measured the ability to inhibit irrelevant responses. RESULTS Findings from Study 1 revealed that fragile X children were significantly more hyperactive, inattentive and impulsive in comparison with the Down's syndrome children but not in comparison to the poor attention control groups. The findings from Study 2 revealed that the main impairment in fragile X was in inhibiting repetition of successful responses and in switching attention from one type of response to another in a sequence, whether it has been successful or not. CONCLUSION Emerging evidence now supports the hypothesis that the fundamental deficit in fragile X is in controlling the flow of sequences of input and output. It is suggested that this control require inhibition.
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The nature of attentional differences between groups of children differentiated by teacher ratings of attention and hyperactivity. Br J Psychol 2001; 92:357-71. [PMID: 11417786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2023]
Abstract
Two groups of children, one with good attention and low hyperactivity and the other with poor attention and high hyperactivity, were formed on the basis of teachers' ratings. The groups were tested on a large number of tests of attentional performance, covering selective attention, divided attention, sustained attention and executive function. Analysis of group differences, with verbal and non-verbal intelligence controlled statistically, indicated that the groups demonstrated significant differences on a variety of measures. Principal components analysis of the tests of attention isolated two components, one of which significantly distinguished the two groups. It is suggested that this component reflected aspects of executive control of attention. The measures which discriminated the groups most clearly were efficiency of visual search involving two targets in alternation, the number of correct responses on a specially devised version of the Wisconsin Card Sorting Task and a task measuring the ability to inhibit a dominant response. It is suggested that all these tasks required a combination of selective attention and executive control. It was also noted that the poor attention group produced bigger individual differences on all measures, indicating that this group may include a variety of weaknesses which require more precise analysis to distinguish them.
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Differential impact of the FMR-1 full mutation on memory and attention functioning : a neuropsychological perspective. J Cogn Neurosci 2001; 13:144-50. [PMID: 11224914 DOI: 10.1162/089892901564126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Memory and attention processing were examined in a group of 15 adult Fragile-X syndrome (FXS) males with Fragile-X mental retardation 1 (FMR-1) full mutation and compared to two control groups: a learning disabled (LD) control and a normal functioning control. Performance was assessed across a wide range of tasks including working memory, recognition memory, selective attention, sustained attention, and attentional switching. All three groups performed at a comparable level on recognition memory tasks, and the Fragile-X males and LD control group performed worse than the control group on tasks of working memory and sustained attention. On a task of executive function, the Fragile-X males demonstrated a significant deficit in comparison to the LD control group and the normal control group, but performed better than the LD control group and at a comparable level to the control group on tasks of selective attention. Molecular analyses of the lymphocyte DNA provided little evidence for a correlation between expansion size and performance on tasks of memory and attention. The findings from the present study are discussed in the context of functional neuroimaging and brain-behavior-molecular correlates.
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Abstract
Working memory performance in a group of young Fragile X males with FMR-1 full mutation was compared to a learning disabled comparison group comprising Down's syndrome males and two control groups of mainstream schoolchildren. Performance was assessed on a battery of tasks tapping the three components of working memory-phonological loop, visual-spatial sketch pad, and the central executive. The results indicated that the Fragile X group displayed a general impairment on working memory tasks that cannot be attributed to a single working memory component per se. Instead, the results suggest that Fragile X males have a working memory deficit that may be attributed to how much attentional resource a specific task requires and their overall available executive capacity, irrespective of the working memory subsystem.
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Abstract
Different processes of attention were examined in a group of 25 fragile X boys with FMR-1 full mutation and compared with three control groups: a learning disabled comparison group comprising 25 boys with Down's syndrome, matched to the fragile X boys on verbal mental age; and 50 mainstream school boys (controls) matched to the fragile X boys on verbal mental age. The controls were further divided into those matched on "poor attention" to the fragile X boys and a "good" attention group, as rated by the ACTeRS questionnaire. Four categories of attention tasks were employed: selective attention, divided attention, sustained attention and executive functioning. The main findings of the study indicate that fragile X boys display an attention deficit at higher levels of attention function/executive functioning and that this profile is different from the profile identified in Down's syndrome boys and more extreme than the profile identified in the poor attention control group. These findings are discussed in the context of functional neuroimaging and brain-behaviour correlates in fragile X syndrome.
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Abstract
Spatial performance in a group of young Fragile-X syndrome males with FMR-1 full mutation was compared to a learning disabled control group comprising young Down's syndrome males and two control groups of mainstream schoolchildren. Performance was assessed across a wide range of spatial tasks including visuo-construction, visuo-spatial memory, visuo-motor, and visuo-perception. The findings indicate a task-specific rather than global deficit in spatial performance in Fragile-X males with visuo-constructive and visuo-motor skills most vulnerable. Molecular analysis of the lymphocyte DNA found minimal evidence for a correlation between CGG expansion size and spatial performance, although tasks with a visuo-perceptual component correlated negatively with expansion size indicating that the further away the number of repeats are from the 200 threshold the poorer the performance.
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Abstract
This study is the first attempt to assess systematically the cognitive functioning in children diagnosed with typical cri du chat syndrome (CDCS) using neuropsychological test measures. Twenty-six children aged between 6 years 4 months and 15 years 5 months (mean 8 years 3 months) completed a battery of tasks measuring IQ level, receptive and expressive language skills, and articulation. Twenty-four children were in the severe learning-disability range with no specific verbal or performance profile. Using more finely tuned measures of cognition, however, a clear discrepancy in the pattern of language functioning was found with better receptive than expressive language skills. One implication of these findings is that parents and professionals should be more optimistic about the capacities of children with CDCS to understand more complex verbal commands than their expressive language skills would suggest.
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The nature of the spatial deficit in young females with Fragile-X syndrome: a neuropsychological and molecular perspective. Neuropsychologia 1998; 36:1239-46. [PMID: 9842768 DOI: 10.1016/s0028-3932(97)00162-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Spatial performance in a group of young Fragile-X syndrome females with FMR-1 full mutation was compared to two control groups of mainstream schoolchildren. Performance was assessed across a wide range of spatial tasks including visuo-spatial, visuo-construction, visuo-motor, visuo-perception and spatial-memory. A spatial deficit emerged only on those tasks which comprised a visuo-constructive component, with the Fragile-X group performing worse overall. All other tasks were performed at a comparable level across the three groups. Molecular analysis of the lymphocyte DNA found minimal evidence for a correlation between expansion size and spatial performance. In addition, there was no evidence for a correlation between the proportion of active to inactive unmethylated FMR-1 genes (activation ratio) and spatial performance. These results conflict with recent reports of a correlation between activation ratio and intellectual functioning.
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Adaptive and Maladaptive Behaviour in Children with Cri-du-Chat Syndrome. JOURNAL OF APPLIED RESEARCH IN INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES 1998. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-3148.1998.tb00064.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Receptive and expressive language skills in children with cri-du-chat syndrome. JOURNAL OF COMMUNICATION DISORDERS 1998; 31:73-81. [PMID: 9421768 DOI: 10.1016/s0021-9924(97)00052-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Receptive and expressive language skills were assessed in 13 children with cri-du-chat syndrome. Two patterns of performance were found. One pattern was the discrepancy between the children's chronological ages and their presumed language ages. The second pattern was the receptive-expressive discrepancy with reduced expressive skills compared to receptive skills. One implication of these findings is that remediation that focuses on receptive skills may be more effective than traditional verbal methods.
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