bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The graft-versus-leukemia effect using matched unrelated donors is not superior to HLA-identical siblings for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Ringdén Olle , Pavletic Steven Z. , Anasetti Claudio , Barrett A. John , Wang Tao , Wang Dan , Antin Joseph H. , Di Bartolomeo Paolo , Bolwell Brian J. , Bredeson Christopher , Cairo Mitchell S. , Gale Robert P. , Gupta Vikas , Hahn Theresa , Hale Gregory A. , Halter Jorg , Jagasia Madan , Litzow Mark R. , Locatelli Franco , Marks David I. , McCarthy Philip L. , Cowan Morton J. , Petersdorf Effie W. , Russell James A. , Schiller Gary J. , Schouten Harry , Spellman Stephen , Verdonck Leo F. , Wingard John R. , Horowitz Mary M. , Arora Mukta
Published: December 2008

Do some patients benefit from an unrelated donor (URD) transplant because of a stronger graft-versus-leukemia (GVL) effect? We analyzed 4099 patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), and chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) undergoing a myeloablative allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) from an URD (8/8 human leukocyte antigen [HLA]–matched, n = 941) or HLA-identical sibling donor (n = 3158) between 1995 and 2004 reported to the CIBMTR. In the Cox regression model, acute and chronic GVHD were added as time-dependent variables. In multivariate analysis, URD transplant recipients had a higher risk for transplantation-related mortality (TRM; relative risk [RR], 2.76; P < .001) and relapse (RR, 1.50; P < .002) in patients with AML, but not ALL or CML. Chronic GVHD was associated with a lower relapse risk in all diagnoses. Leukemia-free survival (LFS) was decreased in patients with AML without acute GVHD receiving a URD transplant (RR, 2.02; P < .001) but was comparable to those receiving HLA-identical sibling transplants in patients with ALL and CML. In patients without GVHD, multivariate analysis showed similar risk of relapse but decreased LFS for URD transplants for all 3 diagnoses. In conclusion, risk of relapse was the same (ALL, CML) or worse (AML) in URD transplant recipients compared with HLA-identical sibling transplant recipients, suggesting a similar GVL effect.
Differentiation stage–specific expression of microRNAs in B lymphocytes and diffuse large B-cell lymphomas
Authors: Malumbres Raquel , Sarosiek Kristopher A. , Cubedo Elena , Ruiz Jose W. , Jiang Xiaoyu , Gascoyne Randy D. , Tibshirani Robert , Lossos Izidore S.
Published: December 2008

miRNAs are small RNA molecules binding to partially complementary sites in the 3′-UTR of target transcripts and repressing their expression. miRNAs orchestrate multiple cellular functions and play critical roles in cell differentiation and cancer development. We analyzed miRNA profiles in B-cell subsets during peripheral B-cell differentiation as well as in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) cells. Our results show temporal changes in the miRNA expression during B-cell differentiation with a highly unique miRNA profile in germinal center (GC) lymphocytes. We provide experimental evidence that these changes may be physiologically relevant by demonstrating that GC-enriched hsa-miR-125b down-regulates the expression of IRF4 and PRDM1/BLIMP1, and memory B cell–enriched hsa-miR-223 down-regulates the expression of LMO2. We further demonstrate that although an important component of the biology of a malignant cell is inherited from its nontransformed cellular progenitor—GC centroblasts—aberrant miRNA expression is acquired upon cell transformation. A 9-miRNA signature was identified that could precisely differentiate the 2 major subtypes of DLBCL. Finally, expression of some of the miRNAs in this signature is correlated with clinical outcome of uniformly treated DLBCL patients.
A Delicate Balance: Integrating Active Learning into a Large Lecture Course
Authors: Walker J. D. , Cotner Sehoya H. , Baepler Paul M. , Decker Mark D.
Published: December 2008

A lecture section of introductory biology that historically enrolled more than 500 students was split into two smaller sections of approximately 250 students each. A traditional lecture format was followed in the “traditional” section; lecture time in the “active” section was drastically reduced in favor of a variety of in-class student-centered activities. Students in both sections took unannounced quizzes and multiple-choice exams. Evaluation consisted of comparisons of student survey responses, scores on standardized teaching evaluation forms, section averages and attendance, and open-ended student comments on end-of-term surveys. Results demonstrate that students perform as well, if not better, in an active versus traditional environment. However, student concerns about instructor expectations indicate that a judicious balance of student-centered activities and presentation-style instruction may be the best approach.
Encouraging Minority Undergraduates to Choose Science Careers: Career Paths Survey Results
Authors: Villarejo Merna , Barlow Amy E. L. , Kogan Deborah , Veazey Brian D. , Sweeney Jennifer K.
Published: December 2008

To explore the reasons for the dearth of minorities in Ph.D.-level biomedical research and identify opportunities to increase minority participation, we surveyed high-achieving alumni of an undergraduate biology enrichment program for underrepresented minorities. Respondents were asked to describe their career paths and to reflect on the influences that guided their career choices. We particularly probed for attitudes and experiences that influenced students to pursue a research career, as well as factors relevant to their choice between medicine (the dominant career choice) and basic science. In agreement with earlier studies, alumni strongly endorsed supplemental instruction as a mechanism for achieving excellence in basic science courses. Undergraduate research was seen as broadening by many and was transformative for half of the alumni who ultimately decided to pursue Ph.D.s in biomedical research. That group had expressed no interest in research careers at college entry and credits their undergraduate research experience with putting them on track toward a research career. A policy implication of these results is that making undergraduate research opportunities widely available to biology students (including “premed” students) in the context of a structured educational enrichment program should increase the number of minority students who choose to pursue biomedical Ph.D.s.
Investigative Cases and Student Outcomes in an Upper-Division Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory Course at a Minority-serving Institution
Authors: Knight Jonathan D. , Fulop Rebecca M. , Márquez-Magaña Leticia , Tanner Kimberly D.
Published: December 2008

Active-learning strategies are increasingly being integrated into college-level science courses to make material more accessible to all students and to improve learning outcomes. One active-learning pedagogy, case-based learning (CBL), was developed as a way to both enhance engagement in the material and to accommodate diverse learning styles. Yet, adoption of CBL approaches in undergraduate biology courses has been piecemeal, in part because of the perceived investment of time required. Furthermore, few CBL lesson plans have been developed specifically for upper-division laboratory courses. Here, we describe four cases that we developed and implemented for a senior cell and molecular biology laboratory course at San Francisco State University, a minority-serving institution. To evaluate the effectiveness of these modules, we used both written and verbal assessments to gauge learning outcomes and attitudinal responses of students over two semesters. Students responded positively to the new approach and seemed to meet the learning goals for the course. Most said they would take a course using CBL again. These case modules are readily adaptable to a variety of classroom settings.
A Molecular Genetics Laboratory Course Applying Bioinformatics and Cell Biology in the Context of Original Research
Authors: Brame Cynthia J. , Pruitt Wendy M. , Robinson Lucy C.
Published: December 2008

Research based laboratory courses have been shown to stimulate student interest in science and to improve scientific skills. We describe here a project developed for a semester-long research-based laboratory course that accompanies a genetics lecture course. The project was designed to allow students to become familiar with the use of bioinformatics tools and molecular biology and genetic approaches while carrying out original research. Students were required to present their hypotheses, experiments, and results in a comprehensive lab report. The lab project concerned the yeast casein kinase 1 (CK1) protein kinase Yck2. CK1 protein kinases are present in all organisms and are well conserved in primary structure. These enzymes display sequence features that differ from other protein kinase subfamilies. Students identified such sequences within the CK1 subfamily, chose a sequence to analyze, used available structural data to determine possible functions for their sequences, and designed mutations within the sequences. After generating the mutant alleles, these were expressed in yeast and tested for function by using two growth assays. The student response to the project was positive, both in terms of knowledge and skills increases and interest in research, and several students are continuing the analysis of mutant alleles as summer projects.
Marianne Bronner-Fraser
Authors: Hoopes Laura L. Mays
Published: December 2008

Note from the Editor

Educator Highlights for CBE—Life Sciences Education show how professors at different kinds of institutions educate students in life sciences with inspiration and panache. If you have a particularly creative teaching portfolio yourself, or if you wish to nominate an inspiring colleague to be profiled, please e-mail Laura Hoopes at lhoopes@pomona.edu.
IQ in early adulthood and later risk of death by homicide: cohort study of 1 million men
Authors: Batty G. David , Deary Ian J. , Tengstrom Anders , Rasmussen Finn
Published: December 2008

Background

Risk factors for homicide are emerging; however, the predictive value of IQ, for which there is a strong prima facie case, has yet to be examined.

Aims

To examine the association between IQ and risk of death by homicide.

Method

A cohort of 968 846 men, aged 18–19 years, were administered an IQ test battery at military conscription and then followed for mortality experience over two decades.

Results

There were 191 deaths due to homicide during follow-up. In age-adjusted analyses, a high total IQ test score was associated with a reduced rate of homicide (hazard ratio (HR) per standard deviation increase in IQ score=0.49, 95% CI 0.42–0.57). A step-wise gradient was apparent across the three IQ groups (P-value for trend 50.001). After adjustment for indicators of socio-economic position and illness at conscription, this gradient was marginally attenuated (HR=0.57, 95% CI 0.49–0.67).

Conclusions

High IQ test scores in early adulthood were associated with a reduced risk of death by homicide.
Interventions for people bereaved through suicide: systematic review
Authors: McDaid Catriona , Trowman Rebecca , Golder Su , Hawton Keith , Sowden Amanda
Published: December 2008

Background

Promoting the mental health of people bereaved through suicide is a key aim of the National Suicide Prevention Strategy.

Aims

To evaluate the effects of interventions to support people bereaved through suicide.

Method

We conducted a systematic review of data from controlled studies of interventions for people bereaved through suicide. Studies were identified using systematic searches, the methodological quality of included studies was assessed and narrative synthesis conducted.

Results

Eight studies were identified. None was UK-based and all but one study had substantial methodological limitations. When compared with no intervention, there was evidence of some benefit from single studies of a cognitive–behavioural family intervention of four sessions with a psychiatric nurse; a psychologist-led 10-week bereavement group intervention for children; and 8-week group therapy for adults delivered by a mental health professional and volunteer. The findings from studies comparing two or more active interventions were more equivocal.

Conclusions

Although there is evidence of some benefit from interventions for people bereaved by suicide, this is not robust. Further methodologically sound evidence is required to confirm whether interventions are helpful and, if so, for whom.
Behavioural phenotype of Cornelia de Lange syndrome: case–control study
Authors: Oliver Chris , Arron Kate , Sloneem Jenny , Hall Scott
Published: December 2008

Background

Cornelia de Lange syndrome is associated with abnormalities on chromosomes 5, 10 and X.

Aims

To delineate the behavioural phenotype of Cornelia de Lange syndrome with specific reference to autistic-spectrum disorder.

Method

A total of 54 individuals with Cornelia de Lange syndrome (mean age 13.88 years; s.d.=8.58) and 46 comparable individuals with intellectual disability (mean age 13.74 years; s.d.=7.99) were assessed on measures of autistic-spectrum disorder, and adaptive, compulsive and disordered behaviour.

Results

There was no difference between the groups in global behaviour disorder. Severe autism was significantly more prevalent in the syndrome group (32.1%) than the comparison group (7.1%). In addition, the syndrome group also evidenced significantly higher levels of compulsive behaviour.

Conclusions

These data suggest that autistic-spectrum disorder is part of the behavioural phenotype of Cornelia de Lange syndrome and that compulsive behaviours are evident. Future research should investigate this behavioural phenotype using contemporary diagnostic algorithms for autism with detailed examination of the phenomenology of compulsive behaviours.
Grief and acceptance as opposite sides of the same coin: setting a research agenda to study peaceful acceptance of loss
Authors: Prigerson Holly G. , Maciejewski Paul K.
Published: December 2008

Reflections on results of a recent study suggest that stages of grief might more accurately be described as states of grief. Resolution of grief coincides with increasing acceptance of loss. Research indicating how grief resolution promotes acceptance may prove clinically useful in easing emotional pain associated with loss.
Reflections on melatonin: focus on child mental health
Authors: Famuyiwa Oluwole , Adewuya Abiodun
Published: December 2008

Aims and Method

To examine the propriety of the use of melatonin in child and adolescent psychiatry based on findings retrieved from multiple electronic databases including the Cochrane Library resource, covering 1950–2007.

Results

There is evidence for the effectiveness of melatonin in the initiation of sleep in children with a variety of neurodevelopmental disorders but its value in improving quality of sleep is doubtful. Like hormones in general, melatonin has multifarious action sites and hence potential for many side-effects. Posological issues and long-term side-effects are yet to be validly determined.

Clinical Implications

Sleep hygiene should be a major component of the routine intervention programme for insomnia and melatonin judiciously prescribed until the safety of long-term use is known.
Electrochemical Methyl-transfer Reaction to Alkylthiol Catalyzed by Hydrophobic Vitamin B12
Authors: Pan Ling , Shimakoshi Hisashi , Hisaeda Yoshio
Published: December 2008

The catalytic methyl-transfer reaction from methyl tosylate to 1-octanethiol was carried out in the presence of heptamethyl cobyrinate perchlorate, hydrophobic vitamin B12, under electrochemical conditions at −1.0 V vs. Ag/AgCl using a carbon-felt cathode and a zinc plate anode as the sacrificial electrode in an undivided cell. This catalytic reaction proceeded via the formation and dissociation of the cobalt–carbon bond in the hydrophobic vitamin B12.
Preparation of Carbon Nanoparticles from Candle Soot
Authors: Zhang Wei , Wang Guangfeng , Zhang Na , Zhang Cuihong , Fang Bin
Published: December 2008

Carbon nanoparticles (CNPs) were prepared by simply mixing candle soot into ethanolic Nafion solution under ultrasonic radiation for 90 min. Well-defined CNPs could be obtained after centrifugation and washing. The products were characterized with transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffractometry (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). A possible formation mechanism is proposed. Electrochemical measurements show that they may be useful as biosensors.
Crystal Structures and Magnetic Properties of Two Phases from Imidazolate-bridged Copper(II) 4,6-Nonanedionate Complexes
Authors: Watanabe Ryo , Koyama Nobumasa , Nogami Takashi , Ishida Takayuki , Kogane Tamizo
Published: December 2008

A helical chain [Cu(dnbm)(μ-im)]n and a tetrancuclear macrocycle [Cu(dnbm)(μ-im)]4 (Hdnbm = 4,6-nonanedione, Him = imidazole) were selectively prepared and structurally characterized. Their magnetic properties obeyed one-dimensional chain and square models, respectively.
One-pot Synthesis of Inorganic–Organic Hollow Microsphere Solid-Acid Catalysts in a W/O Microemulsion System
Authors: Okada Tomohiko , Mishima Shozi , Yoshihara Shingo
Published: December 2008

Acid-supporting hollow microspheres were successfully prepared through a novel synthetic procedure on the introduction of a catalytic active species in the void space; one-pot synthesis was achieved by addition of 12-tungstophosphoric acid to the aqueous phase in a water-in-oil emulsion and simultaneous formation of a polyorganosiloxane shell (precursors are in oil phase) through sol–gel reactions. The resulting solid was porous and was active as solid-acid catalyst as shown by vapor-phase dehydration of ethanol.
Gene Transfer into Cells from Solid Surfaces and Its Application to In Vivo Systems
Authors: Niidome Takuro , Yakumaru Kosuke , Shiotani Atsushi , Yamashita Shuzo , Katayama Yoshiki
Published: December 2008

Plasmid DNA adsorbed onto a glass surface could be transferred into cells by pressing the glass onto the cells, and the gene encoded in the DNA was expressed in the cells. This novel transfection technique will be applicable to the preparation of cell microarray systems and for gene delivery mediated by a solid medical device such as a stent.
Wireless mesh networks
Authors: Wang Xinheng
Published: December 2008

Wireless telemedicine using GSM and GPRS technologies can only provide low bandwidth connections, which makes it difficult to transmit images and video. Satellite or 3G wireless transmission provides greater bandwidth, but the running costs are high. Wireless networks (WLANs) appear promising, since they can supply high bandwidth at low cost. However, the WLAN technology has limitations, such as coverage. A new wireless networking technology named the wireless mesh network (WMN) overcomes some of the limitations of the WLAN. A WMN combines the characteristics of both a WLAN and ad hoc networks, thus forming an intelligent, large scale and broadband wireless network. These features are attractive for telemedicine and telecare because of the ability to provide data, voice and video communications over a large area. One successful wireless telemedicine project which uses wireless mesh technology is the Emergency Room Link (ER-LINK) in Tucson, Arizona, USA. There are three key characteristics of a WMN: self-organization, including self-management and self-healing; dynamic changes in network topology; and scalability. What we may now see is a shift from mobile communication and satellite systems for wireless telemedicine to the use of wireless networks based on mesh technology, since the latter are very attractive in terms of cost, reliability and speed.
Demand-Supply Mismatches and Stock Market Reaction: Evidence from Excess Inventory Announcements
Authors: Hendricks Kevin B. , Singhal Vinod R.
Published: December 2008

This paper documents that excess inventory announcements, an indication of demand-supply mismatch, are associated with an economically and statistically significant negative stock market reaction. The results are based on a sample of 276 excess inventory announcements made during 1990–2002. Over a two-day period (the day of the announcement and the day before the announcement) the mean (median) stock market reaction ranges from −6.79% to −6.93% (−4.51% to −4.79%), depending on the benchmark used to estimate the market reaction. The percent of sample firms that experience negative market reaction ranges from 73% to 74%. When excess inventory is at the announcing firm's customers, the market reaction is more negative than when the excess inventory is at the announcing firm. The stock market reaction is less negative for excess inventory announcements made by larger firms but is more negative for firms with higher growth prospects and with higher debt-equity ratios.
Modification of Diet in Renal Disease and Modified Cockcroft-Gault Formulas in Predicting Aminoglycoside Elimination
Authors: Bookstaver P Brandon , Johnson James W , McCoy Thomas P , Stewart David , Williamson John C
Published: December 2008

Background:

The Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) formula and a modified version of the Cockcroft-Gault (CGm) formula adjusting for body surface area have been found to moro accurately estimate glomerular filtration rate (GFR) compared with the original CG equation in specific patient populations. To date, the use of these formulas in determining drug dosage and estimating drug elimination has not been thoroughly investigated.

Objective:

To evaluate the ability of the MDRD and CGm formulas to predict aminoglycoside elimination rate and clearance.

Methods:

A 6-month prospective, noninterventional, pharmacokinetic study was conducted at a university teaching hospital. Patients receiving aminoglycoside antibiotics (amikacin, gentamicin, or tobramycin) were eligible for study inclusion. Predicted elimination rate and aminoglycoside clearance were calculated for each patient using the MDRD and CGm formulas. Actual (patient-specific) elimination rate and aminoglycoside clearance were calculated for each patient using measured aminoglycoside serum concentrations. Predictive ability of the formulas was compared through Spearman correlations and Student's t-tests. Accuracy of formula estimates was also evaluated.

Results:

Seventy-one patients met study inclusion criteria; the majority (82%) were in an intensive care unit. The 6-variable MDRD formula was found to be a significantly better predictor of aminoglycoside clearance (p = 0.035) compared with CGm. There was no statistically significant difference between the 2 methods in predicting patient-specific elimination rates (p = 0.167). Among subgroups, the MDRD formula was a significantly better predictor of aminoglycoside clearance for patients with an estimated GFR less than 60 mL/min (p = 0.027).

Conclusions:

The 6-variable MDRD performs better than the CGm formula in predicting aminoglycoside clearance and may be considered as a tool in aminoglycoside dosing recommendations.
It's all good: Children's personality attributions after repeated success and failure in peer and computer interactions
Authors: Boseovski Janet J. , Shallwani Sadaf , Lee Kang
Published: December 2008

The present study examined children's use of behavioural outcome information to make personality attributions in social and non‐social contexts. One hundred and twenty‐eight 3‐ to 6‐year‐olds were told about a story actor who engaged in primarily successful or primarily unsuccessful interactions with several different people (social context) or several different computers (non‐social context). Subsequently, children made behavioural predictions and trait attributions about the actor. Findings indicated that participants were more likely to use past information to make behavioural predictions and trait attributions when hearing about primarily successful than primarily unsuccessful interactions, although there were age‐related differences in trait attribution as a function of success and trait type. There was no support for differential use of information across contexts, as participants' predictions and attributions were similar regardless of hearing about interactions with computers or humans. Factors involved in the development of impression formation are discussed.
Patterns of diversity in rocky subtidal macroalgal assemblages in relation to depth
Authors: Balata David , Piazzi Luigi
Published: December 2008

One of the peculiarities of subtidal rocky assemblages of the Mediterranean Sea in comparison to other geographical regions is the development of important biogenic structures in deeper habitat that can influence coastal diversity. We compared species composition, alpha diversity, functional diversity and patterns of spatial variability between shallow and deep subtidal macroalgal assemblages of the Mediterranean Sea. Shallow and deep assemblages differed greatly both in species composition and abundance of morphological groups, leading to high between-habitat (beta) diversity related to a depth gradient. Moreover, patterns of spatial variability changed between habitats, resulting in greater large-scale variability in shallow habitat and greater small-scale variability in deep habitat. Finally, deep assemblages had a greater number of species than shallow assemblages. These findings have important implications for the management of Mediterranean coastal systems.
Intellectual Property Right Protection for Biomedicines in China
Authors: Chun Tang , Xuezhong Zhu
Published: December 2008

Intellectual property right (IPR) protection for biomedicines is vitally important in China as China is now one of the largest biomedicine manufacturing countries in the world. This paper discusses the main IPR protection system of biomedicines in China which is composed of a patent system, a new medicine monitor system and a new medicine administrative protection system. We also point out that the trend of the development of the IPR system in China is to gradually reduce the administrative protection of biomedicines and to enhance reforms of international patent protection.
Paremic verses: Proverbial meanings in Salman Rushdie's novels
Authors: Szpila Grzegorz
Published: December 2008

The article examines the use of proverbs in nine novels by Salman Rushdie. The author discusses the reasons for the incorporation of literary works in proverb study, thus covering one of the aspects of proverb use. The paper talks about the paremic character of Rushdie's novels and offers a description of forms and functions of the paremias. In the analysis the semantics of proverbs is considered: both the changes within the contexts of the novels as well as the main communicative functions that the paremias serve. The paper shows the multifaceted nature of proverbs and demonstrates how the polysemanticity and polyfunctionality of proverbs is deployed by the writer.
What is a “difficult poem”? Towards a definition
Authors: Yaron Iris
Published: December 2008

Modern poetry developed and transformed difficulty into a prominent aesthetic norm of poetry. The abundance of difficult poetic texts necessitates a study of the corpus. After differentiating between the way difficulty is perceived in poetry and in other communicative acts, I present the approach that I have adopted for the purpose of studying difficult poetry. In contrast to other studies which have examined difficulty from the author's perspective and, as a consequence, described factors that cause textual difficulty, I propose to examine the subject from the reader's point of view. The reader, after all, is the one who feels or does not feel the difficulty. The concept ‘difficult poem’ is necessarily interdisciplinary and the question of what is “difficult” involves cognitive psychology and its models of text comprehension. Following a discussion of these domains, I present the “definition” that I propose for the ‘difficult poem’.
‘You must have a wealth of stories’: Cross-linguistic differences between addressee support behaviour in Australian and Japanese
Authors: Fujii Yasunari
Published: December 2008

This article investigates the various types of support that addressees provide to a speaker who is telling a story. It compares addressee support behaviour in two societies, Japan and Australia, exploring how disparities between the two might relate to differences in the social regimentation of polite and friendly conversation in these cultures. At the level of politeness and friendliness, addressee support behaviour includes three types of listener responses: (1) minimal responses, which consist of continuers and acknowledgements, (2) assessments and (3) questions. These three categories are chosen for analysis as they define most clearly the differences between participants on the listening end of narration in each language. The topic of this article is highly relevant to current issues in conversation analysis and cross-cultural communication, and the corpus of stories recorded for this study as well as the study's methodological approaches have the potential to empirically support or challenge current views on the effects of culture on language use.
How do preschool children engage each other in dialogue in Finland, Estonia and Sweden?
Authors: Tryggvason Marja-Terttu , Tulviste Tiia , De Geer Boel
Published: December 2008

The present study compares preschool children in Finland, Estonia and Sweden regarding linguistic structures with which children in dyads elicited talk from each other in a naturalistic play activity. Nineteen Finnish (mean age 5.1), 19 Estonian (mean age 5.4) and 17 Swedish (mean age 5.1) same-sex pairs were video-recorded by a native researcher. Analyses of the results showed that children in different groups produced quite a similar number of utterances and eliciting talk structures. The Swedish and Finnish children used most yes-no questions, whereas the Estonian children had the highest occurrence of open questions. Imperative as well as elliptic structures were used by the Finnish children to a significantly higher extent than by the Swedish children. In summary, the groups differed less from each than was predicted on the basis of adult–child interaction. The results suggested that the symmetrical child–child free play context affected the choice of eliciting talk structures.
Writer construction in English and German popularized academic discourse: The uses ofweandwir
Authors: Baumgarten Nicole
Published: December 2008

The present article investigates writer–reader interaction through the construction of writer and reader personae in English and German popular scientific writing by means of first person plural pronouns in subject position. Popular scientific writing only became firmly established as a German-language genre in the last quarter of the 20thcentury when the high-profile publicationScientific Americanentered the German news magazine market with a German-language sister issue, featuring German translations of articles from the English magazine and original text production in German. We assume that language contact in the process of translation from English to German influenced both the German translations and original text production in German and helped to shape genre-specific communicative styles in the then emerging genre of popular scientific writing in German. Writer–reader interaction is considered as one aspect of communicative style. Focusing on the contribution of first person plural pronouns to the realization of writer–reader interaction through specific writer and reader personae, it will be shown that, over time, patterns of use surface in both the translated and non-translated German texts that can – at least in part – be traced back to the English communicative style in popular scientific writing.
Chapter 2: Program Infrastructure
Authors: Begley EF
Published: December 2008

This chapter will focus on the methodology and basic system components needed for successful implementation of a materials database. The discussion will be presented in a “hints, tips, and everyday wisdom” manner so that the reader, hopefully, will come to recognize troublesome areas and, perhaps, sidestep or hurdle them when possible.
Chapter 3: Types of Materials Databases
Authors: Rumble JR
Published: December 2008

The purpose of this chapter is to define different types of materials databases using several classification schemes. The schemes include: material data type, user type, application type, and access type.
Chapter 7: Management and Operation of Database Building and Distribution Functions
Authors: Kaufman JG
Published: December 2008

The purpose of the material in this chapter is to provide guidelines for builders, maintainers, and distributors of computerized materials properties databases for any delivery system, for example, personal computer, workstation, mainframe, or online systems. It provides some basic tenets of database management and operating philosophy. These tenets are intended to ensure the development, maintenance, and distribution of machine-readable material property databases that are easily accessed and utilized, and are responsive to users' needs and expectations with respect to quality, reliability, and degree of documentation.
Chapter 9: Building a Model Database: Express Example
Authors: Stanton E
Published: December 2008

To build a good database requires reliable data relevant to the user's application and a data architecture that efficiently loads the information into a database system. In this chapter we focus on the actual database building process and recommend other chapters of this book for additional important information on computerizing materials data. To allow this focus, we build a model database from test data from an automotive composite structure without reviewing the design requirements that led to this particular test matrix for automotive materials. In this model development we must deal with a complication not usually found in building numeric databases, namely, technical data requiring extensive metadata for safe use.
Chapter 1-Radon-A Multifaceted Environmental Problem: An Overview
Authors: Nagda NL
Published: December 2008

DURING THE LAST TWO DECADES, it has been well publicized that exposure to radon causes lung cancer. Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, seeps into and accumulates inside buildings. Elevated indoor radon concentrations have been observed in all parts of the United States . A consensus of opinion on human carcinogenicity of radon has been well established from studies of uranium miners by national and international health organizations such as the World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) , the Biological Effects of Ionizing Radiation (BEIR IV) Committee of the National Academy of Sciences , the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) , and the National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurement (NCRP) . Still, the magnitude of exposure to and risks due to radon are not fully recognized by the general public.
Chapter 5-Radon Measurement Protocols
Authors: Ronca-Battista M , Magno P
Published: December 2008

INVESTIGATORS IN FEDERAL AND STATE government, universities, and private industry are making radon measurements using different measurement devices placed in different locations during various ventilation conditions and over different time periods. These public health officials, mitigators, researchers, and building engineers are measuring radon and decay products using a variety of practices, leading to sometimes vastly different results even in the same building. It is important for anyone measuring radon to recognize that different measurement practices lead to measurement results that may not be comparable. The specifications for the factors that can greatly influence the result of a measurement are defined as a protocol. It is the intent of this chapter to assist the reader in evaluating the type of protocol that is appropriate for his or her needs. The chapter discusses the different procedures and guidelines in use by different groups but does not necessarily recommend their use.
Chapter 8-Radon Control Strategies
Authors: Leovic KW , Roth R
Published: December 2008

BECAUSE EXPOSURE TO ELEVATED LEVELS of radon is estimated to cause 7 000 to 30 000 lung cancer deaths each year, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Surgeon General have recommended that indoor radon levels be reduced to less than 148 Bq m-3 . This chapter covers strategies that can be used to effectively reduce elevated radon levels in buildings.
Chapter 9-EPA's Strategy to Reduce Risk of Radon
Authors: Page S
Published: December 2008

SINCE THE DISCOVERY OF EXTREMELY HIGH RADON LEVELS in the Reading Prong region in 1985, there has been extensive progress in the nation's program to reduce the risks of indoor radon. EPA's Radon Program has grown from a handful of researchers in isolated problem areas to an organized partnership of government agencies and private organizations working together on numerous fronts. To accommodate this rapid growth and to keep national radon efforts on track, EPA has continually evaluated and refined its strategy by adapting to new knowledge, increased experience, Congressional direction, and changing needs.
Radon: Prevalence, Measurements, Health Risks and Control
Authors: Nagda NL
Published: December 2008

Description

Radon was recognized as a potential public health threat in the United States more than 30 years ago. To understand and effectively deal with radon, one needs to understand the physics of radon, its health effects, measurement techniques and protocols, the extent of its occurrence in the United States, mitigation principles and practices, and legislative and regulatory actions.

Manual 15 addresses these areas and provides a well-rounded look at the radon issue. Ten peer-reviewed chapters include:

• Radon -- A Multifaceted Environmental Problem: An Overview

• Radon and the Natural Environment

• Health Effects of Radon

• Measurement Methods and Instrumentation

• Radon Measurement Protocols

• Geology and Occurrence

• Concentration Patterns

• Radon Control Strategies

• EPA's Strategy to Reduce Risk of Radon

• Current and Future Perspectives.
Manual on Flash Point Standards and Their Use: Methods and Regulations
Authors: Wray HA
Published: December 2008

Description

Features: Information on the relationship between various national and international regulations using flash point to define flammable liquids. 8 full ASTM flash point tests and excerpts of all other ASTM flash points test and specs. A list of all ASTM flash point standard tests and specifications with their Annual Book of ASTM Standards volume number. Selected excerpts of regulations for control of flammable liquids as they apply to definitions, classification of, and exceptions of hazardous materials. Those quoted are from the regulations of all U.S. Regulatory Agencies as a specified in the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations and in the publications of the International regulatory bodies (such as the International Civil Aviation Organizations and the International Maritime Organization).
Fungal Prophylaxis in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Healy C. Mary
Published: December 2008

Candida sp are the third most common cause of late-onset sepsis (occurring at >72 hours of age) in very low-birthweight (VLBW) infants (birthweight ≤1,500 g). Invasive candidiasis may cause death or neurodevelopmental impairment in almost 75% of infected extremely low-birthweight (ELBW) infants (birthweight ≤1,000 g). Preventive strategies are urgently needed to improve on these poor outcomes. The antifungal agent fluconazole is an ideal candidate prophylactic agent. Its pharmacokinetic properties and distribution allow for low doses and extended intervals while maintaining high tissue concentrations. In the past decade, four randomized, controlled trials and seven retrospective cohort studies have evaluated fluconazole prophylaxis for the prevention of fungal infection in ELBW or VLBW infants. These studies have shown that fluconazole treatment significantly reduces Candida infection rates with a concomitant reduction in Candida-related mortality. To date, fluconazole prophylaxis has not been associated with adverse events or with the emergence of fluconazole-resistant Candida sp. Although further studies may provide information to allow targeting of prophylaxis to infants at highest risk, fluconazole prophylaxis should be strongly considered in a time-limited fashion, especially in neonatal intensive care units that have higher-than-baseline rates of Candida infection, in infants weighing less than 1,000 g at birth, and for those who have significant ongoing risk factors.
Frequency, Predictors, and Neurologic Outcomes of Vaso-occlusive Strokes Associated With Cardiac Surgery in Children
Authors: Domi Trish , Edgell David S. , McCrindle Brian W. , Williams William G. , Chan Anthony K. , MacGregor Daune L. , Kirton Adam , deVeber Gabrielle A.
Published: December 2008

OBJECTIVE. Our aim was to define the frequency, predictors, and outcomes of stroke associated with cardiac surgery in children with congenital heart disease.

METHODS. We performed a case-control study of children (term birth to 18 years) with congenital heart disease who underwent cardiac surgery at the Hospital for Sick Children between January 1, 1992, and March 1, 2001. Case subjects experienced stroke within 72 hours after cardiac surgery, and control subjects (2 for each case subjects) had cardiac surgery and no stroke. The frequency of arterial ischemic stroke/cerebral sinovenous thrombosis was calculated among children who underwent cardiac surgery during the study period. Predictors for stroke, including age, gender, simple versus complex procedure, reoperation, bypass duration, circulatory arrest, postoperative hematocrit level, and intraoperative activated clotting time, were tested. The presence of clinical and radiologically defined stroke was the main outcome. Neurologic outcomes were assessed in case subjects with the Pediatric Stroke Outcome Measure.

RESULTS. During the study period, 30 children with stroke (28 with arterial ischemic stroke and 2 with cerebral sinovenous thrombosis) were identified among 5526 children undergoing cardiac surgery. This yielded a risk for arterial ischemic stroke/cerebral sinovenous thrombosis of 5.4 strokes per 1000 children undergoing a cardiac operation. Univariate analysis revealed that older age at the time of the procedure, longer duration of cardiopulmonary bypass, number of days in the hospital postoperatively, and reoperation were associated with stroke. In multivariate analyses, only reoperation was associated with stroke.

CONCLUSIONS. The frequency of vaso-occlusive stroke in children with congenital heart disease undergoing cardiac surgery was 5.4 cases per 1000 children. Age, duration of bypass, and reoperation may be associated with stroke risk.
Hepatitis B Virus Screening for Internationally Adopted Children
Authors: Stadler Laura Patricia , Mezoff Adam G. , Staat Mary Allen
Published: December 2008

OBJECTIVES. The objectives of this study were to estimate the prevalence of hepatitis B virus protection, infection, and recovery among internationally adopted children and to examine the need for repeat testing 6 months after arrival in the United States.

METHODS. From November 1999 through October 2006, 1282 international adoptees were screened for hepatitis B virus, and results were examined with regard to age, gender, and birth country. The prevalence of hepatitis B virus protection, infection, and recovery was determined.

RESULTS. The prevalence of hepatitis B virus in internationally adopted children at our large international adoption center was 4%, including 1.1% with acute or chronic infection and 2.9% with resolved infection. Overall, 64% of internationally adopted children had evidence of hepatitis B virus immunization, with protective antibodies. We also report a case that highlights the need for repeat serological testing to detect hepatitis B virus infection or immunization in internationally adopted children who might have been infected or vaccinated just before adoption and thus not have serological evidence in initial testing.

CONCLUSIONS. These data reinforce the American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations regarding hepatitis B virus screening and infection control measures for international adoptees.
Surgical Repair of Pectus Excavatum Markedly Improves Body Image and Perceived Ability for Physical Activity: Multicenter Study
Authors: Kelly Robert E. , Cash Thomas F. , Shamberger Robert C. , Mitchell Karen K. , Mellins Robert B. , Lawson M. Louise , Oldham Keith , Azizkhan Richard G. , Hebra Andre V. , Nuss Donald , Goretsky Michael J. , Sharp Ronald J. , Holcomb George W. , Shim Walton K. T. , Megison Stephen M. , Moss R. Lawrence , Fecteau Annie H. , Colombani Paul M. , Bagley Traci , Quinn Amy , Moskowitz Alan B.
Published: December 2008

OBJECTIVE. This study evaluated changes in both physical and psychosocial quality of life reported by the parent and child after surgical repair of pectus excavatum.

METHODS. As part of a multicenter study of pectus excavatum, a previously validated tool called the Pectus Excavatum Evaluation Questionnaire was administered by the research coordinator, via telephone, to parents and patients (8–21 years of age) before and 1 year after surgery. Eleven North American children's hospitals participated. From 2001 to 2006, 264 patients and 291 parents completed the initial questionnaire, and 247 patients and 274 parents completed the postoperative questionnaire. Responses used a Likert-type scale of 1 to 4, reflecting the extent or frequency of a particular experience, with higher values conveying less-desirable experience.

RESULTS. Preoperative psychosocial functioning was unrelated to objective pectus excavatum severity (computed tomographic index). Patients and their parents reported significant positive postoperative changes. Improvements occurred in both physical and psychosocial functioning, including less social self-consciousness and a more-favorable body image. For children, the body image component improved from 2.30 ± 0.62 (mean ± SD) to 1.40 ± 0.42 after surgery and the physical difficulties component improved from 2.11 ± 0.82 to 1.37 ± 0.44. For the parent questionnaire, the child's emotional difficulties improved from 1.81 ± 0.70 to 1.24 ± 0.36, social self-consciousness improved from 2.86 ± 1.03 to 1.33 ± 0.68, and physical difficulties improved from 2.14 ± 0.75 to 1.32 ± 0.39. Ninety-seven percent of patients thought that surgery improved how their chest looked.

CONCLUSIONS. Surgical repair of pectus excavatum can significantly improve the body image difficulties and limitations on physical activity experienced by patients. These results should prompt physicians to consider the physiologic and psychological implications of pectus excavatum just as they would any other physical deformity known to have such consequences.