Die letzten Tage Adolf Hitlers --- Eine Darstellung für das 21. Jahrhundert in Oliver HIRSCHBIEGELs Der Untergang

The film Der Untergang (2004), directed by Oliver HIRSCHBIEGEL and written and produced by Bernd EICHINGER, is based on Joachim FEST's historical monograph Der Untergang (2002) and Traudl JUNGE's and Melissa MÜLLER's Bis zur letzten Stunde (2003). Taking place in April, 1945, the movie depicts the last days of Adolf Hitler and his staff in the 'Führerbunker'. The appearance of the film sparked wide-spread controversy concerning the propriety of Germans illuminating this most controversial aspect of their history. Specifically, the debate centred on the historical accuracy of the film and the dangers associated with the filmmakers' goal of portraying Hitler not as a caricature or one-sided figure but rather as a complete human being whose troubles and human qualities might well earn the sympathy of the viewers. After surveying a variety of films that portray Adolf Hitler, the thesis analyses Der Untergang by focusing first on the cinematic and narrative aspects of the film itself and then on the figure of Hitler. It aims to demonstrate that the presentation of Hitler as a complex character reflects the circumstances of the film's time and culture. In particular, this thesis discusses two main aspects: first, it describes a figure of Hitler constructed in the film and conveyed to the viewers; second, it demonstrates that the film's construction of Hitler is embedded in the sociocultural context of the film's creation, thereby establishing that this is a Hitler for contemporary German society and the current state of German culture's reckoning with its fascist past. The results of the analysis, in particular the depiction of Hitler and the representation of death and suicide, demonstrate that the film presents a multiple point of view. The film also faces the problematic issue of representing history adequately. The consideration of the German sociocultural context brings up some reasons that can explain the increased interest in the personal side of the perpetrators and especially in the figure of Hitler. Finally, this thesis maintains that Der Untergang gives a complex but subsequently inconsistent picture of Adolf Hitler because it gets entangled by the attempt to be informative and entertaining at the same time. Though the film cannot replace historical investigation and analysis, it still informs Germans about Adolf Hitler and reflects how their society deals with its own troubled past

A Case of Beta-propeller Protein-associated Neurodegeneration due to a Heterozygous Deletion of WDR45

Background: Static encephalopathy of childhood with neurodegeneration in adulthood is a phenotypically distinctive, X-linked dominant subtype of neurodegeneration with brain iron accumulation (NBIA). WDR45 mutations were recently identified as causal. WDR45 encodes a beta-propeller scaffold protein with a putative role in autophagy, and the disease has been renamed beta-propeller protein-associated neurodegeneration (BPAN). Case Report: Here we describe a female patient suffering from a classical BPAN phenotype due to a novel heterozygous deletion of WDR45. An initial gene panel and Sanger sequencing approach failed to uncover the molecular defect. Based on the typical clinical and neuroimaging phenotype, quantitative polymerase chain reaction of the WDR45 coding regions was undertaken, and this showed a reduction of the gene dosage by 50% compared with controls. Discussion: An extended search for deletions should be performed in apparently WDR45-negative cases presenting with features of NBIA and should also be considered in young patients with predominant intellectual disabilities and hypertonia/parkinsonism/dystonia

Granulocyte-colony stimulating factor improves outcome in a mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating neurodegenerative disease that results in progressive loss of motoneurons, motor weakness and death within 1–5 years after disease onset. Therapeutic options remain limited despite a substantial number of approaches that have been tested clinically. In particular, various neurotrophic factors have been investigated. Failure in these trials has been largely ascribed to problems of insufficient dosing or inability to cross the blood–brain barrier (BBB). We have recently uncovered the neurotrophic properties of the haematopoietic protein granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF). The protein is clinically well tolerated and crosses the intact BBB. This study examined the potential role of G-CSF in motoneuron diseases. We investigated the expression of the G-CSF receptor in motoneurons and studied effects of G-CSF in a motoneuron cell line and in the SOD1(G93A) transgenic mouse model. The neurotrophic growth factor was applied both by continuous subcutaneous delivery and CNS-targeted transgenic overexpression. This study shows that given at the stage of the disease where muscle denervation is already evident, G-CSF leads to significant improvement in motor performance, delays the onset of severe motor impairment and prolongs overall survival of SOD1(G93A)tg mice. The G-CSF receptor is expressed by motoneurons and G-CSF protects cultured motoneuronal cells from apoptosis. In ALS mice, G-CSF increased survival of motoneurons and decreased muscular denervation atrophy. We conclude that G-CSF is a novel neurotrophic factor for motoneurons that is an attractive and feasible drug candidate for the treatment of ALS

A strategic framework for biodiversity monitoring in South African National Parks

Protected areas are under increasing threat from a range of external and internal pressures on biodiversity. With a primary mandate being the conservation of biodiversity, monitoring is an essential component of measuring the performance of protected areas. Here we present a framework for guiding the structure and development of a Biodiversity Monitoring System (BMS) for South African National Parks (SANParks). Monitoring activities in the organisation are currently unevenly distributed across parks, taxa and key concerns: they do not address the full array of biodiversity objectives, and have largely evolved in the absence of a coherent, overarching framework. The requirement for biodiversity monitoring in national parks is clearly specified in national legislation and international policy, as well as by SANParks’ own adaptive management philosophy. Several approaches available for categorising the multitude of monitoring requirements were considered in the development of the BMS, and 10 Biodiversity Monitoring Programmes (BMPs) were selected that provide broad coverage of higher-level biodiversity objectives of parks. A set of principles was adopted to guide the development of BMPs (currently underway), and data management, resource and capacity needs will be considered during their development. It is envisaged that the BMS will provide strategic direction for future investment in this core component of biodiversity conservation and management in SANParks. Conservation implications: Monitoring biodiversity in protected areas is essential to assessing their performance. Here we provide a coordinated framework for biodiversity monitoring in South African National Parks. The proposed biodiversity monitoring system addresses the broad range of park management plan derived biodiversity objectives

Robust estimation of bacterial cell count from optical density

Optical density (OD) is widely used to estimate the density of cells in liquid culture, but cannot be compared between instruments without a standardized calibration protocol and is challenging to relate to actual cell count. We address this with an interlaboratory study comparing three simple, low-cost, and highly accessible OD calibration protocols across 244 laboratories, applied to eight strains of constitutive GFP-expressing E. coli. Based on our results, we recommend calibrating OD to estimated cell count using serial dilution of silica microspheres, which produces highly precise calibration (95.5% of residuals <1.2-fold), is easily assessed for quality control, also assesses instrument effective linear range, and can be combined with fluorescence calibration to obtain units of Molecules of Equivalent Fluorescein (MEFL) per cell, allowing direct comparison and data fusion with flow cytometry measurements: in our study, fluorescence per cell measurements showed only a 1.07-fold mean difference between plate reader and flow cytometry data

Anatomical alignment and muscle strength as predictors of overuse injuries in long-distance athletes

MA (Biokinetics), North-West University, Potchefstroom CampusBackground - Running is a popular choice of physical activity for many people because it is relatively inexpensive and not bound to a high-tech facility (Mann et al. , 1981 : 190). Associated with the increased popularity of running is an increase in the incidence of running-related injuries (Mann et a1. , 1981: 190; Wen et al. , 1997: 1291 ). This ranges from as little as 11 percent (Montgomery et al. , 1989:239) to as high as 75 percent (Van Mechelen, 1995:161) depending on which study is cited. In a study by Marti et al. (1988:289), one in five runners were forced to fully interrupt training due to injuries. One in seven sought medical attention, and one in forty were forced to miss work. A clear set of predictor variables that can be used to identify the high risk runner and initiate preventative measures, would therefore be of great value to medical practitioners (Frederickson, 1996:50; O'Toole, 1992:S360). A variety of factors have been identified as role players in the aetiology of running injuries (Krivickas, 1997: 133; Layman & Morris, 1991:33; Montgomery et al., 1989:237; Pinshaw et al. , 1984:291 ; Wen et al. , 1997:1292). These factors can be described as being either intrinsic or extrinsic in nature (Gellman & Burns, 1996:263 . Intrinsic factors refer to inherent characteristics of the runner e.g. anatomical alignment and joint range of motion (Krivickas, 1997: 135) as well as muscle strength characteristics (O'Toole, 1992:S360) and psychological factors (Layman & Morris, 1991:28; Robbins & Joseph, 1985:23). Training errors, faulty equipment and training surfaces on the other hand are external to the athlete and classified as extrinsic risk factors (Krivickas, 1997: 133). The relationship of anatomical alignment measures and overuse injuries in runners is not yet well established, and the results of existing studies are often contradictory (Krivickas, 1997: 133). Inadequate strength and muscular imbalances are also cited to be important risk factors in the aetiology of running-related injuries (Jonhagen et al. , 1994:226; Kibler et al. , 1991:68; O'Toole, 1992: S360). OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to retrospectively examme the importance of anatomical alignment measures in predicting the risk of overuse injuries in runners. The relationship between muscle-strength characteristics and runmng mJunes was also investigated. METHODS Fifty-two runners were recruited from marathon clubs in the Potchefstroom K1erksdorp area. The respondents were subjected to a battery of tests that included a questionnaire, a standard pre-season medical examination, and measuring of anatomical alignment, anthropometric parameters and muscle-strength. Subjects were required to complete a questionnaire pertaining to their training parameters and demographic information. Running-related injuries were diagnosed and recorded during the standard pre-season physical examination. The anatomical alignment measures included forefoot varus, longitudinal arch angle, arch index, leg length discrepancy, knee varus/ valgus, Q-angle, dynamic hip abductor strength (Trendelenberg test), posterior thigh and lower-back flexibility (sit-and-reach), and hip extension range of motion. Muscle strength was measured for both the knee and ankle joint, concentrically as well as eccentrically. From these results it was possible to calculate the conventional and functional strength ratios for knee flexion and extension, and for ankle plantar and dorsiflexion. These values were then compared between injured and uninjured subjects. RESULTS Accurate sets of predictor variables were identified for male and female subjects respectively. The variables that could predict injured male runners with 94 % accuracy were: forefoot varus, arch index, posterior thigh and lower back flexibility and the percentage body fat. Predictor variables for female subjects included forefoot varus, arch index, longitudinal arch angle, knee varus/ valgus, Q-angle, functional leg length discrepancy, hip extension range of motion and running experience. These variables were 88 % accurate in predicting injured female subjects. Muscle-strength characteristics were not found to be related to the incidence of running injuries in the present study. CONCLUSIONS It is concluded that anatomical alignment measures did play a significant role in the aetiology of running injuries and could be used accurately to injured and uninjured subjects. Interestingly, the only variables that were included in both the male and female models were forefoot varus and arch index. No differences were found in the muscle-strength characteristics of injured and uninjured subjects and subsequently no relationship could be discerned between the above mentioned variables. It appears that muscle strength may not be as important as anatomical alignment in the development of injuries in runners.Master

The impact of Ayres Sensory Integration® on occupational performance in a child with bilateral cochlear implants

Children with profound hearing impairments are receiving cochlear implants at an increasingly younger age resulting in the need for early therapeutic support and intervention. Besides the obvious concerns regarding speech and language development, children with cochlear implants are also at risk for motor and balance deficits. This was a retrospective, longitudinal, experimental holistic single case study. The aim was to determine the impact of Ayres Sensory Integration® on occupational performance in a child with bilateral cochlear implants within the first four years after implantation. Six objectives were addressed. Quantitative and qualitative methods were used including designing an observation tool, administering stardardised tests, conducting a parent interview and obtaining perspective from the cochlear team to obtain rich in-depth knowledge and perspective. Pre- and post-intervention results were compared to determine changes in sensory perception, sensory reactivity, motor development and participation in occupations. Intervention adhered to the fidelity requirements of Ayres Sensory Integration®. Results indicated that there were positive changes in the child’s sensory processing and participation in occupations. Ayres Sensory Integration® was therefore an effective therapeutic approach for this child with cochlear implants. The cochlear team gained valuable insights and the parents indicated that occupational therapy intervention had a significant impact on the whole family unit. This study can contribute to the professional body of knowledge by building onto the knowledge base and skills repertoire regarding the application of therapeutic principles to children with cochlear implants. The occupational therapist can make a valuable contribution to the cochlear team. Optimal integration of sensory input can assist with promoting cochlear usage, not only for acquiring language, but also for developing age-appropriate skills at a critical stage of development to facilitate successful participate in childhood occupations.Dissertation (MOccTher)--University of Pretoria 2020.Occupational TherapyMOccTherUnrestricte

Investigating the influence of the properties of school uniforms on children with sensory overreactivity

This study aimed to deepen the understanding of the influence of the properties of school uniforms that may contribute to discomfort and irritation for children with sensory overreactivity. The specific objectives were (a) to identify the difficulties that children with sensory overreactivity experience when wearing a school uniform and (b) explore possible adaptations of the school uniform that can reduce the discomfort and irritation caused by the uniform. In this exploratory, qualitative study, four focus group interviews were conducted with a total sample of 16 participants. Mothers and occupational therapists that live and work with children with sensory overreactivity participated in this study. During thematic analysis, three themes emerged as important to understand the discomfort caused by a school uniform: textiles, design, and construction. This study contributes to the literature on school uniforms and the sensory aspects of clothing. Guidelines for parents are presented and future research possibilities are discussed.The National Research Foundation.https://journals.sagepub.com/home/CTRhj2023Consumer ScienceFood ScienceOccupational TherapySDG-03:Good heatlh and well-bein

The dimensions of brand romance as predictors of brand loyalty among cell phone users

In a competitive cell phone industry where consumers have a wide variety of cell phone brands to choose from, it is imperative for marketers to foster brand loyalty in order to establish enduring consumer-brand relationships. Nurturing brand romance has been suggested to marketers to cultivate emotional attachments between consumers and brands so as to increase brand loyalty. This study focussed on determining the extent to which the three underlying dimensions of brand romance, namely pleasure, arousal and dominance predict brand loyalty among cell phone users in the North West province. In total 371 respondents participated in the study. Results indicate that with respect to brand romance, respondents’ current cell phone brands generate brand pleasure and brand arousal, but that these brands are not dominant in their minds. Although respondents participating in the study did not exhibit strong levels of brand loyalty towards their current cell phone brands, the three underlying dimensions of brand romance are statistically significant predictors of brand loyalty

Investigating brand romance, brand attitude and brand loyalty in the cellphone industry

Orientation: Fast growth and intense competition characterise the South African cellphone industry. Customers switch easily between cellphone brands and marketers are challenged to cultivate brand relationships with customers in order to ensure brand loyalty. Research purpose: This study investigated the brand romance, -attitude and -loyalty of customers toward their cellphone brands in the North West Province, South Africa. Motivation for the study: One way in which brand loyalty in the cellphone industry can be achieved is to influence attitudes and, ultimately, create brand loyalty by promoting brand romance between the customer and the brand. Research design, approach and method: Being quantitative in nature, the study followed a descriptive research design to collect 371 responses through self-administered questionnaires. Main findings: The results indicated that most respondents were contract customers who only use a brand of cellphone for between one and three years. Brand romance toward cellphone brands was positive although room for improvement exists. Brand attitude toward current cellphone brands was also positive, but brand loyalty was fairly low, indicating that marketers need to improve brand loyalty toward their cellphone brand. There were, furthermore, significant and positive relationships between brand romance, brand attitude and brand loyalty toward cellphone brands. Practical/managerial implications: Brand romance can be considered to be a viable way of improving attitude toward a cellphone brand, ultimately leading to brand loyalty. Contribution/value-add: Brand romance in brand relationships has significant and positive relationships with brand attitude and brand loyalty in the cellphone industry of South Africa.http://dx.doi.org/10.4102/ac.v13i1.178http://www.actacommercii.co.za/index.php/acta/article/viewFile/178/23