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Discusses an ongoing research work which attempts to formulate, develop and test mining equipment reliability assessment models based on genetic algorithms. Genetic algorithms are powerful and broadly applicable stochastic search techniques based on the principles of natural selection, heredity and genetics. The reason for selecting genetic algorithms is the fact that the reliability of mining equipment changes over time due to its dependence upon several covariates/factors (e.g. equipment age, the operating environment, number and quality of repairs). These factors combine to create a complex impact on an equipment’s reliability function. Gives an example of the application of genetic algorithms to capture the impact of these factors on time between failures of a piece of mining equipment.

The purpose of this paper is to present a rationale for increasing initiatives for early intervention of emotional and behaviour difficulties.

The authors draw on existing literature regarding rates of emotional and behavioural difficulties together with risk factors and processes related to the development of such difficulties.

Rates of emotional and behavioural difficulties amongst children with learning and developmental difficulties are high. A combination of factors relating to the child, the family system, and wider social contexts is likely to account for this.

Increased attempts to provide early intervention to children with learning and developmental disabilities together with their families are warranted. Recommendations are made regarding how the development of such supports might best be taken forward.

Whilst drawing on pre-existing literature, the value of this paper is the way in which this has been drawn together to provide an overview of risk and development of behavioural and other difficulties amongst children with learning/developmental disabilities.

The purpose of this review was to highlight the association between ID and obesity in toddlers and preschool children.

This review aimed to review and evaluate literature of the published research discussing the relationship between ID and overweight and obesity in children under the age of 5 years. Conflicting results of iron status in overweight and obese children under the age of 5 years had been found. However, most articles concluded that ID is associated significantly with overweight and obesity in children because of the systemic inflammatory reaction which is considered the major cause of ID; hepcidin with its resultant effect in decreasing duodenal absorption of iron; in addition to other causes including dietary and genetic factors.

Conflicting results of iron status in overweight and obese children under the age of 5 years had been found, but most articles concluded that ID is associated significantly with overweight and obesity in children, with systemic inflammatory reaction being the major cause through hepcidin with its resultant effect in decreased duodenal absorption of iron, in addition to other causes including dietary and genetic factors.

Many nutrients have been associated with weight gain and ID development. Unbalanced diet either in excess or shortage may affect weight status and serum iron profile. Future research is needed to study more in depth the association between ID and obesity in toddlers and preschool children and to further explore the various factors involved in pathogenesis of ID.