This paper summarizes results of research on functional and structural abnormalities of the brain in autism. The current concept of causation is seen to involve multiple biologic levels. A consistent profile of brain function and dysfunction across methods has been found and specific neuropathologic findings have been found; but some research…

This paper reviews neuroanatomic studies on syndromes classified as Pervasive Developmental Disorders. Findings in autism and Asperger's syndrome suggest that these two disorders may represent a continuum along a neurobiological spectrum with a common neuroanatomic substrate, while Rett syndrome appears to be clinically and anatomically distinct…

This paper summarizes recent research on functions of the cochlea of the inner ear. The cochlea is described as the seat of the first step in the auditory sound analysis and transduction of mechanical vibration into electrochemical processes leading to the generation of neural action potentials. The cochlea is also described as a frequent seat of…

The goals of this review are to: (1) provide a set of concepts to aid in the understanding of complex processes which occur during central nervous system (CNS) development; (2) illustrate how they contribute to our knowlege of adult brain anatomy; and (3) delineate how modifications of normal developmental processes may affect the structure and…

Discusses renal neuroanatomy, renal vasculature, renal tubules, renin secretion, renorenal reflexes, and hypertension as related to renal nerve functions. Indicates that high intensitites of renal nerve stimulation have produced alterations in several renal functions. (A chart with various stimulations and resultant renal functions and 10-item,…

This study of eight growth-retarded children with Down's syndrome (aged 1 to 6.5 years) found that administration of growth hormone was more effective than either L-dopa or clonidine. Results suggest that children with Down's syndrome have both anatomical and biochemical hypothalamic derangements resulting in decreased growth hormone secretion and…

This study of 102 individuals with autism found that the brainstem and cerebellum increased in size with age but were significantly smaller in autistic patients than in controls. Analysis of the speed of development suggests that brainstem and vermian abnormalities in autism were due to an early insult and hypoplasia rather than to progressive…

The role played by neuroembryological forces in shaping brain development is well documented in Nowakowski's (1987) article. Additional mechanisms whereby experience may influence brain structure and function are outlined. Several routes exist by which postnatal experiential influences may produce long-term alterations in behavior and…

Recent studies on the biological development of the prefrontal cortex in rhesus monkeys are reviewed. These studies have elucidated the basic neural circuitry underlying the delayed-response function in adult nonhuman primates and suggest that a critical mass of cortical synapses is important for the emergence of this cognitive function. (BN)

Phoneme-specific nasal emission was identified in 36 children, age 3-16; 19 children had no orofacial mechanism anomalies, whereas 17 had findings ranging from minor to severe. The 2 groups were more alike than different in speech behaviors. Five patterns of phoneme-specific nasal emission were exhibited by 2 or more children. (Author/JDD)

Discusses the irregularity and unpredictability of the human body. Presented are pictures showing the fractallike structures and research findings on the mechanism for chaos in the human body. Lists four further reading materials. (YP)

The study characterized the terms used by 144 children, ages 3-8, to describe sexual body parts. Older children had more accurate terminology than younger children. The gender of the child or interviewer had little influence on child responses. (Author/DB)

Research findings from autopsy studies, neuroimaging, functional imaging, and electrophysiological measures specific to dyslexia have provided a better understanding of the reading process, particularly as it applies to individuals with dyslexia. Evidence from these studies pertaining to the neurological origins of dyslexia is reviewed, and…

Describes the three part system of human vision. Explores the anatomical arrangement of the vision system from the eyes to the brain. Traces the path of various visual signals to their interpretations by the brain. Discusses human visual perception and its implications in art and design. (CW)

Described are animals that can filter their food out of the water. Various structures modified to strain plankton and small animals from water are detailed. The adaptive significance of these structures is discussed. (CW)